1. Building Equity and Long-Term Wealth

Unlike rent payments that simply disappear every month, your mortgage payments contribute toward something tangible: equity. Over time, as you pay down your loan and your home appreciates in value, you build wealth. Homeownership is one of the most reliable ways Canadians accumulate long-term net worth. In fact, according to Statistics Canada, homeowners typically have significantly higher median net worth than renters.

2. Stability in an Unpredictable Rental Market

Rental prices can fluctuate based on supply and demand, landlord decisions, or market conditions. Owning your home offers a greater sense of stability, particularly with a fixed-rate mortgage. You can plan your financial future with more confidence, knowing your housing costs won’t spike unexpectedly.

3. Freedom to Personalize and Invest in Your Space

As a homeowner, you’re free to customize your space without needing approval. Whether it’s a kitchen renovation, a backyard garden, or simply painting the walls your favourite colour, your home becomes a true reflection of your lifestyle. Every improvement you make can also increase the property’s overall value.

4. Tax Advantages and Financial Incentives

Canadian homeowners may benefit from various government programs and tax incentives, especially first-time homebuyers. The First Home Savings Account (FHSA), the Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP), and potential rebates on land transfer taxes are all designed to support Canadians on their path to ownership.

5. A Sense of Community and Belonging

Homeownership often leads to deeper roots in a community. When you own your home, you’re more likely to invest time and care into your neighbourhood, establish long-term relationships, and become involved in local events. This connection can lead to a stronger sense of belonging and overall well-being.

6. Legacy and Generational Benefits

Owning a home can provide a financial and emotional legacy for your family. Whether it’s passing the property down to children, leveraging equity to support education or retirement, or simply creating a stable foundation, your investment can benefit generations to come.

Why Preparing Your Home for an Open House Matters

Start by removing excess furniture and personal items such as family photos, trophies, or collections. Decluttering makes rooms feel larger and helps buyers focus on the features of the home rather than your belongings.

Pro tip: Rent a storage unit temporarily if needed, to keep things out of sight.

Step 2: Deep Clean Every Corner

A spotless home sends a message that the property has been well cared for. Pay close attention to kitchens, bathrooms, floors, windows, and even less obvious spots like baseboards and ceiling fans.

Hiring professional cleaners can make a big difference in presentation and reduce your stress before the big day.

Step 3: Make Necessary Repairs and Touch-Ups

Fix leaky faucets, squeaky doors, chipped paint, or cracked tiles. Small repairs reassure buyers that the home is move-in ready and well maintained.

A fresh coat of neutral paint in high-traffic areas can brighten your home and appeal to a wider audience.

Step 4: Maximize Curb Appeal

The exterior is the first thing buyers see. Trim overgrown bushes, mow the lawn, plant fresh flowers, and power wash siding and walkways.

Consider adding a welcoming doormat and making sure the front door looks inviting with a fresh coat of paint or polished hardware.

Step 5: Stage Thoughtfully

Arrange furniture to highlight the space and flow of each room. Use neutral, light colors and add touches like fresh flowers, soft lighting, and minimal decor to create a warm atmosphere.

If staging feels overwhelming, consider hiring a professional stager who can showcase your home’s potential.

Step 6: Set the Right Ambience

On the day of the open house, open windows to let in natural light and fresh air. Use subtle scents like vanilla or citrus, and play soft background music to create a welcoming environment.

Make sure the temperature is comfortable and that all lights are turned on to brighten up spaces.

Step 7: Prepare Your Home for Visitors

Secure valuables and remove pets to avoid distractions. Leave informative flyers or brochures about the property in visible spots, and ensure clear signage guides visitors to the open house.

Pros of Buying a Home

1. Building Equity Over Time
One of the biggest advantages of buying a home is that your monthly mortgage payments contribute toward building equity. Unlike rent payments, which go to a landlord, owning a home means investing in an asset that can grow in value.

2. Stability and Control
Homeownership offers stability. You won’t have to worry about lease renewals or unexpected rent increases. Plus, you have the freedom to personalize and renovate your property as you see fit.

3. Potential Tax Benefits
Homeowners may qualify for tax deductions such as mortgage interest and property taxes, which can reduce your overall tax burden.

4. Long-Term Investment
Real estate historically appreciates in value, making homeownership a potential source of long-term wealth. Plus, owning a home can provide financial security during retirement.

Cons of Buying a Home

1. High Upfront Costs
Buying a home requires a significant initial investment including a down payment, closing costs, home inspections, and moving expenses.

2. Maintenance and Repairs
As a homeowner, you are responsible for all maintenance and repairs, which can be costly and time-consuming.

3. Less Flexibility
Selling a home takes time and can be complicated, making it harder to relocate quickly for job changes or personal reasons.

4. Market Risk
Property values can fluctuate based on the real estate market and local economy, meaning your investment isn’t guaranteed to increase in value.

Pros of Renting a Home

1. Lower Upfront Costs
Renting typically requires a security deposit and first month’s rent, making it more affordable upfront compared to buying.

2. Flexibility
Leases are usually short-term, allowing renters to move easily without the hassle of selling a property. This flexibility is ideal for people who might relocate frequently.

3. No Maintenance Costs
Renters aren’t responsible for repairs or maintenance, which means fewer unexpected expenses.

4. Access to Amenities
Many rental properties come with shared amenities like gyms, pools, or common spaces, which might be expensive to maintain in a private home.

Cons of Renting a Home

1. No Equity Building
Monthly rent payments go to the landlord and don’t contribute to ownership or investment.

2. Rent Increases and Lease Restrictions
Landlords can raise rent prices or impose restrictions that limit your ability to personalize the space or have pets.

3. Less Stability
Renters may face eviction or non-renewal of leases, creating uncertainty.

4. Limited Control
Renters usually cannot renovate or make significant changes to their living space.

A Rebound in Key Markets

According to recent reports, home resales rose in May 2025 across several major urban centres, including Toronto, Ottawa, Calgary, Edmonton, Fraser Valley, Saskatoon, and Regina. While activity remains well below the highs of previous years, this uptick represents a break from the downward momentum seen earlier in 2025.

This modest recovery appears tied to easing fears surrounding the global trade environment. Although concerns linger, particularly in regions impacted by tariff escalations, the overall tone in recent weeks has improved. That optimism may be translating into action, as sidelined buyers begin to re-enter the market.

Southern Ontario: Still Soft, But Stabilizing

Markets in southern Ontario, including the Toronto region, Hamilton, Kitchener-Waterloo, and Cambridge, remain among the softest in the country, with activity levels near cyclical lows. Home prices in these areas continue to face downward pressure. In fact, the MLS Home Price Index declined again in May in most of these cities compared to April.

However, in Toronto, signs of stabilization are beginning to emerge.

Toronto: Turning a Corner?

Toronto’s real estate market had been hit hard by spring’s economic uncertainty. Sales activity dropped to levels not seen in decades, while price declines rattled seller confidence. But May saw an 8.4% increase in resales over April, marking the second consecutive monthly gain.

This shift could reflect a growing sense that the worst-case economic outcomes may be behind us. With interest rates cut earlier this year and inventory at multi-decade highs, buyers are in a strong negotiating position, which may help fuel activity heading into the second half of the year.

Still, Toronto home prices are down 4.5% year-over-year, and with supply continuing to outpace demand, further softening is likely in the short term.

Calgary and Montreal Show Relative Strength

While Toronto and Vancouver remain fragile, other markets are proving more resilient.

Calgary: Demand Rebounding as Economy Grows

Calgary saw a notable rebound in May, with estimated resales jumping over 8% from April. Thanks to strong population growth and an employment rate growing nearly three times faster than the national average, demand remains healthy.

Although Calgary’s MLS HPI declined year-over-year for the first time since 2020, new construction and additional inventory are helping to keep the market balanced. Buyers are taking advantage of greater selection without the urgency of last year’s pace.

Montreal: Holding Steady Amid Uncertainty

Montreal continues to demonstrate relative stability. Though resales dipped slightly by 2% in May, activity remains at what would have been considered solid pre-pandemic levels. Tight inventory has supported pricing, with median prices rising 8.6% for single-family homes and 4.3% for condos year-over-year.

Montreal’s market doesn’t appear overheated, but steady growth in new listings could gradually temper price appreciation in the months ahead.

Vancouver: A Buyer’s Market Emerges

Unlike Calgary and Montreal, Vancouver remains in correction mode. May likely marked the sixth straight month of declining resale activity, returning to lows last seen in 2023.

Inventory is high — the highest in over a decade — and competition between sellers is putting pressure on pricing. Vancouver’s MLS HPI dropped 2.9% year-over-year, and with buyers staying cautious, downward pressure may continue.

With supply growing and buyers holding the upper hand, Vancouver remains firmly a buyer’s market for now.

What This Means for Southern Ontario Sellers

While national trends point to stabilization, southern Ontario remains in a period of adjustment. Activity levels are picking up slowly, but pricing remains under pressure — and inventory is abundant in many areas.

For sellers in Burlington, Oakville, and the GTA, this means that pricing your home accurately is more important than ever. Buyers have choices. Sellers need strategy.

At The Smallbone Team, we use a deep, data-informed approach to valuation, helping you list with confidence and clarity in today’s evolving market.

Best Cafés in Burlington

1. Tamp Coffee Co. (Downtown Burlington)
Located steps from the lake, Tamp is a must-visit for coffee lovers. With expertly crafted espresso, bright interiors, and a rotating selection of local pastries, it’s a go-to spot for both casual catchups and remote work days.

2. Lola Choco Bar and Sweet House (Plains Road, Aldershot)
A hidden gem for those with a sweet tooth. This charming café serves decadent hot chocolates, homemade desserts, and delicious light fare — all in an Instagram-worthy setting.

3. Saving Thyme (Upper Middle Road)
Part café, part French bakery, this spot blends European flavour with Burlington hospitality. Their almond croissants are a local favourite, and the casual ambiance makes it perfect for a mid-day break.

Top Local Restaurants

1. Spencer’s at the Waterfront (Downtown Burlington)
Spencer’s offers a refined dining experience with unbeatable lake views. Known for fresh, seasonal ingredients and upscale service, it’s ideal for celebrations or date nights.

2. The Martini House (Downtown)
Located in a character home just off Brant Street, this restaurant blends charm and culinary creativity. From seafood towers to signature martinis, it never disappoints.

3. Familia Fine Foods (Fairview Street)
For something casual and incredibly flavourful, this family-run spot serves up Latin-inspired meals made with heart. It’s a local favourite for takeout — perfect after a busy day of showings or open houses.

4. The North Coal (Lakeshore Road)
A newer addition to the waterfront strip, The North Coal offers elevated comfort food in a modern, cozy setting. With a strong focus on Canadian ingredients and outdoor seating, it’s a favourite among locals.

Local Shops to Explore

1. Joelle’s & Jeff’s Guyshop (Brant Street)
This boutique is a Burlington staple for curated fashion and lifestyle pieces. Think: luxury denim, Canadian designers, and thoughtful gifts — all wrapped in exceptional service.

2. Centro Garden (Downtown)
More than just a garden shop, Centro is a design haven. You’ll find greenery, home décor, and beautiful seasonal installations. A great place to get inspired, whether you’re decorating or staging.

3. Pure Boutique (Village Square)
Tucked into the cobblestones of Village Square, Pure offers clothing, accessories, and unique home items — all with a focus on quality and understated elegance.

4. Burlington Farmer’s Market (Spring–Fall, Burlington Centre)
For locally grown produce, handmade goods, and fresh florals, nothing beats the Burlington Farmer’s Market. It's also a great way to connect with the community and support small businesses.

Why We Love Local

Supporting local businesses doesn’t just boost the local economy — it builds connection. These are the spots where deals are celebrated over coffee, new friendships are made across dinner tables, and everyday moments feel a little more special. When we help clients find a home, we’re not just thinking about square footage — we’re thinking about how your daily life can flourish here.

If you’re looking for a home that’s walking distance to your favourite café or just a quick drive from the best brunch in town, let’s chat. We know Burlington — and we know where to find the lifestyle that fits you best.

It All Starts With Real Data — Not Guesswork

The foundation of any pricing strategy is a thorough Comparative Market Analysis (CMA). But not all CMAs are created equal.

We dig deep into current and historical data from your neighbourhood — not just Burlington in general, but your specific pocket. Whether you’re in Shoreacres, Roseland, Aldershot, or another local area, we evaluate:

• Recent sales: What homes like yours have actually sold for in the past 30–90 days

• Active listings: What your competition looks like and how your home compares

• Expired listings: Which properties didn’t sell, and what we can learn from them

• Micro-trends: What’s happening on your street or within your school district

We consider critical value drivers such as square footage, lot size, age and condition of the home, upgrades and renovations, finishes, and layout. If you’ve updated your kitchen or added a basement suite, we’ll ensure those improvements are accounted for properly.

Timing is a Strategic Tool

A smart pricing strategy is always informed by timing. Burlington’s market ebbs and flows throughout the year, and aligning your price with market conditions can give you a major advantage.

For example, spring and early summer often bring out motivated buyers and higher competition, which can push prices up — but only if you’re positioned correctly. On the other hand, listing in a slower period like late fall or early winter might mean adjusting slightly to meet more cautious buyer sentiment.

We look at:

• Seasonal buyer activity

• Current average days on market

• Recent mortgage rate changes

• Broader economic indicators

Our goal is to help you list when the market is working for you — not against you.

Pricing for Online Visibility and Buyer Psychology

With most buyers starting their search online, pricing has to work digitally just as much as it does strategically. That’s why we consider how your home will show up in search filters. For example, pricing your home at $999,900 instead of $1,000,000 could expose it to two different price brackets — potentially doubling your visibility.

We also take into account buyer psychology. A well-priced home creates urgency. It makes buyers feel confident and competitive. An overpriced home, on the other hand, often leads to hesitation and lowball offers — or no offers at all.

We help you walk that fine line between maximizing your return and keeping your home attractive in the eyes of the most serious buyers.

It’s Not Just About Comparables — It’s About Your Home

No two homes are exactly alike — and that’s why we go beyond comps. We look at what sets your home apart and ensure those standout features are reflected in the price.

Do you back onto greenspace? Are you walking distance to the lake or GO Train? Have you invested in high-end finishes or smart home technology? Is your basement income-producing or ideal for multi-generational living?

Buyers are willing to pay more for features that enhance their lifestyle. We make sure those details are front and centre — in the listing, in the marketing, and in the pricing.

Communication is Key

The pricing conversation isn’t a one-way street. We believe in full transparency and collaboration throughout the process. We’ll present our research, explain our rationale, and talk through your priorities — whether you're hoping to sell quickly, maximize your return, or coordinate your sale with a new purchase.

We don’t throw out a number and walk away. We work with you to arrive at a price that makes sense — for the market, and for your goals.

Why It All Matters

The first days your home is on the market are the most important. That’s when it’s fresh, exciting, and getting the most eyes — both online and from agents actively searching for their buyers. The right price helps you capitalize on that moment.

Homes that are priced correctly from the start:

• Generate more showings and offers

• Sell faster

• Typically achieve a higher final sale price than those that reduce later

Homes that are overpriced:

• Sit on the market longer

• Can become “stale” in the eyes of buyers

• May ultimately sell for less than they would have with the right initial strategy

Our job is to make sure you don’t leave money on the table — and that you don’t waste time either.

Myth #1: “I’ll make a ton more money if I price my home high and wait.”

Reality: In today’s market, overpricing can do more harm than good. Buyers are savvy—they’ve done their research, watched the neighbourhood, and they know when a home is overpriced. A high price might actually scare away serious buyers, and the longer a listing sits, the more people wonder what’s wrong with it. The right pricing strategy (backed by data) creates competition and often leads to better offers—sometimes even over asking.

Myth #2: “Spring is the only time to sell.”

Reality: While spring is traditionally busy, homes sell all year long—and often for just as much. Summer and fall have their own advantages: less competition, motivated buyers, and beautiful curb appeal. Plus, serious buyers don’t wait for the calendar—they act when the right property comes up. Timing is important, but strategy is everything.

Myth #3: “Open houses sell homes.”

Reality: Open houses can build buzz, but most homes today sell through strong marketing, online exposure, and private showings. That said, open houses still offer value—especially for nosy neighbours who become real buyers (yes, it happens). The key is not relying only on open houses, but using them as part of a full marketing plan.

Myth #4: “You don’t need a realtor in this market.”

Reality: With so much on the line, going it alone can be risky. Whether you're buying or selling, there’s negotiation, legal paperwork, inspections, and timing to juggle—and one misstep can cost thousands. A great agent (hi, that’s me!) helps you navigate it all with confidence, strategy, and way less stress.

Myth #5: “I should wait until interest rates drop to buy.”

Reality: We hear this one daily—but trying to “time” the market perfectly is a gamble. While rates matter, waiting can mean paying more for the same home later if prices rise. If you’re financially ready and find a property that fits your lifestyle, that’s your window. And you can always refinance later if rates go down.

1. Maximize Curb Appeal with Seasonal Touches

Your home’s exterior is the first thing buyers see, and summer gives you the perfect opportunity to make it shine. Freshen up garden beds, mow the lawn regularly, and trim any overgrown trees or shrubs. Add a splash of colour with potted flowers near the front door or on the porch. Power wash siding, walkways, and decks to remove built-up grime, and ensure your house number is clearly visible.

If you're selling a home in South Burlington neighborhoods like Shoreacres or Roseland, these well-kept exteriors help match the elevated expectations of buyers in these sought-after communities.

2. Keep It Cool and Comfortable Inside

There’s nothing worse than walking into a stuffy house during a hot summer day. When showing your home, make sure it feels like a welcome retreat. If you have air conditioning, keep it running at a comfortable temperature. Ceiling fans and open windows (if the weather allows) can also help circulate air.

Buyers may not say it out loud, but the comfort level inside your home can influence how long they linger—and how they feel about making an offer.

3. Let the Light In, But Filter It Smartly

Summer sun is a major asset, but it can also cause glare or heat buildup. Open blinds and curtains to showcase natural light, but consider using sheer panels or light-filtering shades to soften overly bright rooms. Clean all windows inside and out to let that sunshine in without streaks or dust.

Light, bright interiors photograph beautifully—and in today’s digital-first buying experience, your listing photos are crucial.

4. Stage with Summer in Mind

Subtle staging changes can make your home feel fresh, inviting, and seasonally appropriate. Swap out heavy throw blankets and dark-coloured décor for lighter fabrics and neutral tones. Add simple touches like fresh-cut flowers, citrus-scented diffusers, or a bowl of summer fruit in the kitchen.

In outdoor spaces—especially in Burlington homes with backyards or patios—set up a seating area that shows off your space for summer entertaining. A clean BBQ, a few lanterns, and a couple of patio chairs can help buyers imagine themselves enjoying warm evenings in their new home.

5. Tidy Up for a Lived-In (But Not Overlived) Look

Summer is a busy season for families, but clutter is a fast way to turn buyers off. Pack away personal items, toys, and seasonal gear like sports equipment or pool accessories. Buyers want to see your home, not your lifestyle.

This is also a good time to depersonalize. While a few family photos or warm touches are fine, too much personal décor can make it harder for buyers to envision themselves living in the space.

6. Consider a Pre-Listing Inspection

If you're hoping to sell your home quickly and for top dollar, a pre-listing inspection can give you a competitive edge. It shows buyers you’ve taken care of the home and can help avoid last-minute surprises. Summer buyers often move fast, and a well-documented, move-in ready home is highly appealing.

7. Work with a Local Real Estate Expert

Finally, the best summer home-selling tip is to team up with an experienced local Realtor who understands the market, the season, and your neighbourhood. At The Smallbone Team, we specialize in preparing homes across Burlington—including Aldershot, Shoreacres, and Roseland—for a successful summer sale.

From staging advice to pricing strategies and top-tier marketing, we’ll ensure your home stands out when buyers are most active.

What Is the Sutherland Class Action Lawsuit?

At its core, the lawsuit claims that Canada's current real estate commission model is anti-competitive. Specifically, it argues that sellers are unfairly required to pay not only their own agent’s commission but also the commission for the buyer’s agent. The plaintiffs say this practice inflates the cost of selling a home and limits a seller’s ability to negotiate commission fees freely.

The lawsuit targets several major brokerages and the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA), asserting that these entities have upheld a system that discourages open competition and transparency.

What Could Change in the GTA Real Estate Market?

If the lawsuit is successful, we could see substantial changes in how real estate services are delivered and paid for. Here’s what buyers and sellers might expect:

1. Buyer and Seller Commissions May Be Separated

One of the biggest changes could be the decoupling of commissions. Instead of the seller covering the cost of both agents, buyers may be expected to pay their agent directly. This shift could make fees more transparent but also place a greater financial burden on buyers—particularly first-time homebuyers.

2. More Flexibility in Commission Structures

The standard 5% commission split could become a thing of the past. Instead, we may see flat fees, tiered pricing, or à la carte service models. Buyers and sellers will likely have more choices in how they pay for representation, and agents will need to clearly articulate the value they provide.

3. Increased Emphasis on Transparency and Value

In a more open marketplace, real estate professionals will be expected to clearly outline their services and fees. Consumers will have more room to ask questions and compare options before committing. This could raise the bar across the industry in terms of professionalism, marketing quality, and negotiation skills.

4. Changes to Buyer Representation Agreements

We may also see the standardization of buyer contracts, where agents clearly define their compensation and responsibilities before starting a home search. Buyers will need to be more informed about what they're signing and what services they’re receiving in return.

How Will This Affect Burlington and the Surrounding Areas?

As a team that works throughout Burlington, Oakville, and surrounding southern Halton communities, we anticipate that any legal or regulatory changes stemming from the Sutherland case will ripple across our local market. While some agents and brokerages may struggle to adapt, others will see this as an opportunity to innovate and deliver greater value to clients.

Our philosophy at The Smallbone Team has always been rooted in providing luxury service to every client, regardless of price point. Should the industry change, we remain committed to clarity, integrity, and results.

1. The Visionary

You walk into a home and immediately start mentally tearing down walls, retiling bathrooms, and turning that awkward den into a yoga studio. The current finishes don’t bother you—you see potential.

Your Superpower: Big-picture thinking and creativity

Watch Out For: Getting overwhelmed by renovation timelines or costs

Best Advice: Partner with a great inspector and contractor early so your vision is grounded in reality.

2. The Checklist Buyer

You’ve got your budget, your must-haves, your nice-to-haves, and your definite no-thank-yous. You're organized, decisive, and efficient.

Your Superpower: Clarity and confidence

Watch Out For: Getting too caught up in the list to see the feel of the home

Best Advice: Stay open to homes that check 8/10 boxes—you might be surprised where you end up happiest.

3. The Emotional Buyer

You know the moment you walk in. There’s a vibe. A feeling. You picture your furniture in the living room and your dog sunbathing by the patio door. That’s it. You’re in love.

Your Superpower: You’ll know when it’s right

Watch Out For: Falling for a home before checking all the practical details

Best Advice: Bring someone grounded (like me!) to help you balance heart and head.

4. The Deal Hunter

You’ve got spreadsheets, comps, and a sixth sense for price drops. You love a good negotiation and you know the market better than some agents (or at least think you do).

Your Superpower: Savvy decision-making

Watch Out For: Getting too focused on the “deal” and missing great opportunities

Best Advice: Remember, value isn’t just about price—it’s about long-term fit and resale too.

5. The Ghost

You browse listings daily. You show up to open houses. You might be pre-approved. But every time things get serious… you vanish.

Your Superpower: Gathering information

Watch Out For: Staying stuck in research mode

Best Advice: If you’re even thinking about buying in the next 6–12 months, it’s time to talk to a Realtor. (No pressure, promise.)

Before You List: Set the Stage for a Strong Sale

First impressions matter, and most buyers will form theirs within seconds of arriving—or scrolling online. Preparing your home before it hits the market can dramatically affect how quickly it sells and at what price.

Declutter and depersonalize. Remove excess furniture, family photos, and anything that distracts from the home itself. Buyers want to envision themselves living in the space.

Make necessary repairs. Fix leaky faucets, squeaky doors, cracked tiles, and anything else that might suggest deferred maintenance. Small issues can raise big red flags.

Deep clean and consider staging. A spotless home shows pride of ownership. Professionally staged homes often sell faster and for more money, especially in competitive markets like Roseland or Shoreacres.

Work with a local expert. A seasoned agent will help you price strategically, understand market trends, and build a marketing plan that puts your home in front of the right buyers.

While Your Home Is on the Market: Stay Ready

Once your home is live on MLS, presentation remains key—and flexibility is essential.

Be showing-ready at all times. Keep things tidy, beds made, and surfaces clear. You never know when a last-minute showing request will come in.

Leave during showings. Buyers need to feel comfortable exploring the space. Leave the house during appointments and open houses to give them room to imagine life there.

Stay responsive. Your agent may need your input on feedback, pricing strategy, or offers. Prompt communication can make or break a potential sale.

Monitor market activity. If your home isn’t getting showings or offers within the first two weeks, it may be time to revisit your pricing or presentation strategy.

When Your Home Is Pending: Don’t Let Your Guard Down

Receiving an offer—especially a great one—is exciting, but there are still steps to navigate before it’s official.

Understand your conditions. Common clauses include financing, home inspection, or the sale of the buyer’s property. Your agent will help guide you through timelines and obligations.

Prepare for the inspection. Make sure all systems are accessible (furnace, electrical panel, attic, etc.), and tidy up. A smooth inspection can help solidify the deal.

Don’t make major changes. Keep utilities running, maintain the property, and avoid packing away essential items too early. The deal isn’t closed until it’s closed.

At Closing: Wrap It Up Smoothly

As closing day approaches, your focus should shift to final preparations and ensuring a seamless handoff.

Hire a real estate lawyer. They’ll help with paperwork, disbursements, and coordinating with the buyer’s legal team.

Schedule your move strategically. Avoid moving out on the actual closing day, as delays can happen. Aim for a day or two before, if possible.

Leave the home in good condition. The property should be clean, empty, and in the same state as when the offer was accepted—unless otherwise agreed upon.

Celebrate your next chapter. Whether you're upsizing, downsizing, or relocating, take a moment to recognize this milestone.

A Pause Amid Uncertainty

This rate hold comes as Canada faces mixed economic signals. First-quarter GDP growth was slightly stronger than anticipated at 2.2%, but that strength is already showing signs of fading. Consumption has slowed, resale housing activity has contracted sharply, and unemployment has risen to 6.9%. Inflation sits at 1.7%, temporarily pushed down by the elimination of the federal carbon tax—but underlying price pressures remain.

With ongoing global volatility, particularly surrounding U.S. tariff policy, the Bank is holding steady while it waits for more clarity. For real estate, this means we’re still in a limbo period—one where interest rates aren’t rising, but buyers and sellers alike are hesitant to act.

How This Impacts Buyers

For buyers, a steady rate means mortgage affordability isn’t worsening for now. If you’ve been on the sidelines waiting for a signal to jump back into the market, this could be it. While interest rates remain stable, housing prices in many areas have softened due to reduced demand, creating opportunities—especially in Burlington, Oakville, and surrounding regions.

That said, uncertainty around inflation and future rate movements means locking in a mortgage rate sooner rather than later could provide peace of mind. Partnering with a knowledgeable agent and a trusted mortgage broker can help ensure you're positioned to move quickly when the right home comes along.

What Sellers Should Know

If you're considering selling, it’s important to understand that buyers are currently cautious. Elevated borrowing costs, though stable, are still influencing affordability. Combined with weaker consumer confidence and a contracting resale market, this means pricing strategy is critical.

That doesn’t mean your home won’t sell—but it does mean you need to be realistic. Presentation, marketing, and professional guidance have never been more important. Homes that are well-prepared and competitively priced are still selling—but timing, pricing, and preparation matter more than ever.