Economic and Real Estate News

Last week, CMHC released the first of two editions of its House Price Analysis and Assessment scheduled for this year. 

Bank of Canada stands pat on key rate, cites impact of January cut

The Bank of Canada has opted against a second consecutive interest rate cut, arguing that it is already delivering an “appropriate” amount of monetary stimulus to counter the hit from lower oil prices.

Mortgage firms tighten lending standards in Calgary as housing boom turns sour

The oil that fueled Calgary’s housing boom has created the conditions for a bust.Genworth MI Canada Inc., the country’s largest non-government mortgage insurer, said last week it’s preparing for more losses this year and into 2016. 

Five condo renos that add value

It was a horror show. The condo kitchen was fitted with expensive cabinets by the high-end Italian company Scavolini – coloured hot pink. In another condo, the back splash behind the stove top was made of a metal – impossible to clean.

Jury Out on Mortgage Interest Rates Rising in 2015

Canada’s housing market has enjoyed banner growth over the past few years, but the jury is out on whether the good times will last throughout 2015. New economic risks such as dropping oil prices and the resulting inflation lag have thrown housing market pundits through a loop, and split the once-confident consensus on rate growth this year.