Jan 24, 2024 | Bank of Canada maintains policy rate, continues quantitative tightening

by Gerald Lawrence

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Relations

Ottawa, Ontario

January 24, 2024

The Bank of Canada today held its target for the overnight rate at 5%, with the Bank Rate at 5¼% and the deposit rate at 5%. The Bank is continuing its policy of quantitative tightening.

Global economic growth continues to slow, with inflation easing gradually across most economies. While growth in the United States has been stronger than expected, it is anticipated to slow in 2024, with weakening consumer spending and business investment. In the euro area, the economy looks to be in a mild contraction. In China, low consumer confidence and policy uncertainty will likely restrain activity. Meanwhile, oil prices are about $10 per barrel lower than was assumed in the October Monetary Policy Report (MPR). Financial conditions have eased, largely reversing the tightening that occurred last autumn.

The Bank now forecasts global GDP growth of 2½% in 2024 and 2¾% in 2025, following 2023’s 3% pace. With softer growth this year, inflation rates in most advanced economies are expected to come down slowly, reaching central bank targets in 2025.

In Canada, the economy has stalled since the middle of 2023 and growth will likely remain close to zero through the first quarter of 2024. Consumers have pulled back their spending in response to higher prices and interest rates, and business investment has contracted. With weak growth, supply has caught up with demand and the economy now looks to be operating in modest excess supply. Labour market conditions have eased, with job vacancies returning to near pre-pandemic levels and new jobs being created at a slower rate than population growth. However, wages are still rising around 4% to 5%.

Economic growth is expected to strengthen gradually around the middle of 2024. In the second half of 2024, household spending will likely pick up and exports and business investment should get a boost from recovering foreign demand. Spending by governments contributes materially to growth through the year. Overall, the Bank forecasts GDP growth of 0.8% in 2024 and 2.4% in 2025, roughly unchanged from its October projection.

CPI inflation ended the year at 3.4%. Shelter costs remain the biggest contributor to above-target inflation. The Bank expects inflation to remain close to 3% during the first half of this year before gradually easing, returning to the 2% target in 2025. While the slowdown in demand is reducing price pressures in a broader number of CPI components and corporate pricing behaviour continues to normalize, core measures of inflation are not showing sustained declines.

Given the outlook, Governing Council decided to hold the policy rate at 5% and to continue to normalize the Bank’s balance sheet. The Council is still concerned about risks to the outlook for inflation, particularly the persistence in underlying inflation. Governing Council wants to see further and sustained easing in core inflation and continues to focus on the balance between demand and supply in the economy, inflation expectations, wage growth, and corporate pricing behaviour. The Bank remains resolute in its commitment to restoring price stability for Canadians.

Information note

The next scheduled date for announcing the overnight rate target is March 6, 2024. The Bank will publish its next full outlook for the economy and inflation, including risks to the projection, in the MPR on April 10, 2024.

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January 14, 2024

First-Time Home Buyer Incentive Program by the Canadian Government

by Gerald Lawrence

January 14, 2024

Navigating the Ontario Real Estate Market: A Guide for First-Time Homebuyers

by Gerald Lawrence

Embarking on the journey of purchasing your first home in Ontario is an exciting but sometimes overwhelming experience. From understanding the market dynamics to taking advantage of government incentives, there’s much to consider. In this blog post, we’ll explore essential tips for first-time homebuyers in Ontario, with a special focus on the government’s First-Time Home Buyer Incentive programs.

Financial Preparedness:
Before diving into the market, assess your financial situation. Establish a budget, taking into account not just the purchase price but also closing costs, moving expenses, and potential renovations. Being financially prepared is a crucial first step.

Explore First-Time Home Buyer Incentives:
The Ontario government offers incentives to support first-time homebuyers. Programs like the First-Time Home Buyer Incentive (FTHBI) can provide shared equity loans, reducing the overall mortgage burden. Research and understand the eligibility criteria and benefits of these incentives.

Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage:
Knowing your budget beforehand is essential. Secure a mortgage pre-approval to understand how much you can borrow and to show sellers that you are a serious and qualified buyer.

Understand Market Trends:
Stay informed about the current real estate market trends in Ontario. Knowing whether it’s a buyer’s or seller’s market can influence your negotiation strategy and timing.

Work with a REALTOR®:
Engaging the services of a professional REALTOR® like myself can be invaluable, especially for first-time buyers. As Realtors we can provide insights into neighbourhoods, guide you through the buying process, and help you make informed decisions.

Consider Additional Costs:
Beyond the purchase price, factor in additional costs such as property taxes, utilities, and potential homeowners’ association fees. Being aware of these expenses will prevent unexpected financial strain.

Attend Open Houses:
Visit open houses to get a feel for different neighborhoods and property types. This hands-on approach helps you refine your preferences and priorities.

Inspect Before You Invest:
A thorough home inspection is crucial. Identify potential issues before finalizing the purchase to avoid unexpected expenses down the line.

Be Mindful of Closing Costs:
Closing costs can add up, including legal fees, land transfer taxes, and home insurance. Understand these costs in advance to avoid any last-minute surprises.

Plan for the Future:
Consider your long-term plans and whether the property aligns with your future goals. A home is a significant investment, and thinking ahead can contribute to a more successful and satisfying purchase.

Conclusion:
Navigating the Ontario real estate market as a first-time homebuyer requires careful planning and consideration. By incorporating these tips and exploring government incentive programs like the First-Time Home Buyer Incentive, you can make informed decisions and embark on your homeownership journey with confidence. Remember, with the right preparation, your first home purchase in Ontario can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience.

January 11, 2024

Mastering the Art of Home Staging: Your Guide to a Swift Home Sale!

by Gerald Lawrence

In the bustling Ontario real estate market, making a memorable first impression is crucial for a quick and successful home sale. One of the key strategies to achieve this is effective home staging. In this blog post, we’ll explore essential home staging tips tailored to the Ontario market, helping sellers create a captivating environment that resonates with potential buyers.

Declutter and Depersonalize:
Begin the home staging process by decluttering and depersonalizing your space. Remove personal items, excessive furniture, and any clutter that might distract potential buyers. This allows them to envision the space as their own and emphasizes the property’s potential.
Highlight Key Features:
Identify and emphasize the unique features of your home. Whether it’s a stunning fireplace, spacious kitchen, or picturesque window views, showcasing these highlights can leave a lasting impression on potential buyers.

Let in Natural Light:
Ontario is known for its beautiful natural light especially during the summer months. Maximize this asset by opening curtains and blinds during showings. Well-lit spaces feel more inviting and spacious, contributing to a positive viewing experience.
Neutralize Color Palette:
Neutral tones create a blank canvas that appeals to a broader audience. Consider repainting walls in soft, neutral colors and using neutral-colored furnishings. This not only enhances the overall aesthetic but also helps potential buyers envision their own décor in the space.

Invest in Quality Photography:
In today’s digital age, many homebuyers begin their search online. High-quality photos are essential for attracting attention and encouraging potential buyers to schedule a viewing. Consider hiring a professional photographer to capture your home’s best angles.
Arrange Furniture Thoughtfully:
Proper furniture placement can enhance the flow and functionality of each room. Arrange furniture in a way that highlights the room’s purpose and makes it easy for potential buyers to navigate.

Create Inviting Outdoor Spaces:
In Ontario, outdoor spaces are highly valued. Ensure that your yard, balcony, or patio is well-maintained and inviting. Consider adding cozy seating, potted plants, or outdoor lighting to enhance the appeal of these areas.
Address Minor Repairs:
Take care of any minor repairs or maintenance issues before listing your home. This includes fixing leaky faucets, squeaky doors, and any visible signs of wear and tear. A well-maintained home suggests that it has been cared for, instilling confidence in potential buyers.

Stage Each Room’s Purpose:
Clearly define the purpose of each room to help potential buyers visualize their lifestyle in the space. If you have a multipurpose room, consider staging it with a specific function in mind to avoid confusion.
Keep it Fresh:
Lastly, ensure your home is clean, fresh, and inviting. Open windows for ventilation, use air fresheners sparingly, and consider adding fresh flowers or plants to enhance the overall atmosphere.

Conclusion:
Effective home staging is an invaluable tool in the competitive Ontario real estate market. By creating a visually appealing and welcoming environment, sellers increase the likelihood of capturing the attention of potential buyers, ultimately leading to a quicker and more successful home sale. Implement these tips to make your property stand out in the bustling real estate landscape.

General Info • January 10, 2024

The Power of Pre-Listing Home Inspections in Ontario Real Estate

by Gerald Lawrence

In the competitive and dynamic real estate market of Ontario, sellers are often seeking ways to stand out and streamline the selling process. One strategy gaining popularity is the utilization of pre-listing home inspections.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the significance of this proactive approach and how it can positively impact the real estate journey for both sellers and buyers.

Setting the Stage for a Smooth Transaction:
A pre-listing home inspection involves assessing a property’s condition before it hits the market. By identifying potential issues upfront, sellers can address them proactively, minimizing surprises during the negotiation phase. This transparency fosters a smoother transaction and builds trust with potential buyers.

Building Seller Confidence:
Knowing the ins and outs of their property allows sellers to confidently discuss its condition with potential buyers. This knowledge empowers sellers to make informed decisions, answer buyer inquiries with confidence, and potentially justify their asking price.

Attracting Serious Buyers:
Buyers often appreciate the transparency and effort put into a pre-listing inspection. They are more likely to consider a property that has undergone this process as it signals the seller’s commitment to an honest and transparent transaction. This can attract serious and qualified buyers.

Pricing Accuracy:
A pre-listing inspection helps sellers accurately price their homes. By factoring in the condition of the property and any necessary repairs, sellers can set a fair and competitive asking price. This can lead to quicker sales and potentially higher offers.

Minimizing Negotiation Hurdles:
With known issues addressed beforehand, there are fewer negotiation hurdles during the sale. Buyers are less likely to request extensive repairs or demand price reductions, as they are already aware of the property’s condition.

Expediting the Closing Process:
Pre-listing inspections contribute to a faster closing process. With fewer surprises, the time-consuming back-and-forth negotiations are minimized, expediting the transition from offer acceptance to closing.

Enhancing Marketability:
A property with a clean bill of health from a pre-listing inspection is inherently more marketable. Sellers can leverage this advantage in marketing materials, emphasizing the property’s well-maintained condition and the confidence they have in its structural integrity.

Strengthening Negotiation Position:
Armed with a comprehensive inspection report, sellers have a stronger negotiation position. They can confidently discuss the property’s strengths and acknowledge any weaknesses, contributing to a more balanced negotiation process.

Conclusion:
In the competitive Ontario real estate landscape, a pre-listing home inspection is a powerful tool that benefits both sellers and buyers. From instilling confidence in sellers to attracting serious buyers and expediting the closing process, this proactive approach is a win-win for all parties involved, ultimately contributing to a more efficient and transparent real estate transaction.

➡ OFFER: If you are thinking or selling within the next 6-12 months, please feel free to contact me to discuss your plans along with me providing a no-obligation in-depth home market analysis. In the meantime, if you want a quick FREE Instant Home Value in only 10 seconds, click this link.

January 8, 2024

Property Pre-Qualification & Pre-Approval Guide

by Gerald Lawrence

Securing pre-approval is a pivotal step for homebuyers in Canada, as it provides a more comprehensive and concrete commitment from lenders compared to pre-qualification. To initiate this process, prospective buyers should gather essential financial documents, including proof of income, employment verification, and details about existing debts. These documents help lenders assess the buyer’s financial stability and capacity to repay a mortgage, forming the basis for a pre-approval decision.

Choosing a reputable mortgage professional or financial institution is paramount when seeking pre-approval. The selected expert will carefully review the buyer’s financial documentation, conducting a thorough analysis of their creditworthiness. This evaluation goes beyond the initial pre-qualification, providing a more accurate estimate of the loan amount the buyer can secure. With pre-approval, buyers gain a clearer understanding of their budget, streamlining the home search process and allowing them to focus on properties within their financial means. Please contact me so I can refer you to the trusted and highly recommended mortgage professionals that my clients and brokerage have used.

Upon successful pre-approval, buyers receive a formal commitment from the lender, often in the form of a letter. This document specifies the approved loan amount, interest rate, and other pertinent details. Armed with this pre-approval letter, buyers demonstrate to sellers that they are not only serious about purchasing a home but also financially capable. In a competitive real estate market, having pre-approval significantly enhances a buyer’s negotiating power and increases the likelihood of their offer being accepted.

Buyers should be aware that pre-approval typically has a validity period, usually ranging from 60, 90 or 120 days. During this time, it is crucial for buyers to actively search for a home and finalize their purchase. If the homebuying process extends beyond the pre-approval‘s expiration date, they may need to undergo the process again, taking into account any changes in their financial circumstances.

In conclusion, obtaining pre-approval is a strategic move for homebuyers in Canada. By diligently preparing financial documentation, collaborating with a trusted mortgage professional, and actively pursuing properties within their approved budget, buyers can position themselves as serious and capable contenders in the competitive real estate landscape. The pre-approval process not only streamlines the home buying journey but also instills confidence in both buyers and sellers throughout the transaction.

January 7, 2024

REALTOR® Cooperation Policy Comes into Force January 2024

by Gerald Lawrence

On January 3, 2024, the REALTOR® Cooperation Policy will be enforced, bringing into operation the new “Duty of Cooperation” as outlined in Article 30 of the REALTOR® Code.

What is mandated by this policy?

In cases where public marketing of a residential listing takes place, REALTORS® must ensure the inclusion of the listing on an MLS® System within the timeframe specified by their respective board or association, unless an exemption is applicable. The policy allows for a maximum timeframe of up to three-(3) days.

Are there any exemptions?

The policy does not restrict brokers from exclusively representing a buyer or seller.
Moreover, it stipulates that REALTORS® must apprise their seller clients of the advantages of marketing their listing on an MLS® System. Should the seller opt to forgo the benefits of public marketing, this decision must be confirmed in writing.

What is defined as public marketing?

Public marketing refers to reaching out to the general public and/or any REALTOR® not directly affiliated with the listing brokerage/office in a business capacity.
It is not categorized as public marketing when a listing REALTOR® directly markets to REALTORS® from another brokerage or office. “One-to-one” marketing does not trigger the policy, while “one-to-many” does.

How does this policy positively impact you and your clients?

Benefits for sellers: Inclusion on an MLS® System enhances exposure to potential buyers.
Benefits for buyers: A greater number of sellers on MLS® Systems translates to increased options for buyers.
Benefits for REALTORS®: Collaboration between REALTORS® remains fundamental to the success of every real estate transaction.

January 7, 2024

Ontario Modernizing Rules Governing Province’s Real Estate Services Sector

by Gerald Lawrence

News Release From The Ministry of Public and Business Service – Ontario

New protections designed to strengthen consumer confidence when dealing with brokerages, brokers, and salespersons

November 28, 2023

Public and Business Service Delivery

TORONTO — The Ontario government is updating the rules governing the province’s real estate brokerages, brokers, and salespersons to strengthen consumer protection, educate home buyers and sellers, and enhance professionalism. The new rules, effective December 1, 2023, will give Ontarians more choice in the real estate trade process by allowing a brokerage to disclose the details of competing offers. They also include an updated Code of Ethics to strengthen professional obligations related to integrity, conflict of interest and the prevention of fraud.

“Buying, leasing and selling real estate is one of the biggest and most important decisions a person or business will ever make so it’s critical that rules for real estate brokerages, brokers, and salespersons reflect modern business practices that foster a strong and vibrant real estate market,” said Todd McCarthy, Minister of Public and Business Service Delivery. “We want to ensure Ontarians feel empowered and informed when participating in real estate transactions, and for professionals in the sector to be seen as trusted and ethical. These latest rule changes coming into effect December 1 will help us do just that.”

Phase 2 of legislative and regulatory changes introduced under the Trust in Real Estate Services Act (TRESA), 2020, will modernize the province’s real estate market by:

Allowing real estate brokerages to disclose the details of competing offers if the seller directs them to do so, excluding personal or identifying information.
Better protecting and educating Ontarians through enhanced disclosure requirements for real estate brokerages, brokers and salespersons (known as registrants) and the development of an information guide to help individuals make informed decisions when they trade in real estate.
Requiring registrants to comply with an updated Code of Ethics that strengthens professionalism by focusing on their obligations related to integrity, quality of service and conflicts of interest.
Providing the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO) with new powers and tools to better hold registrants accountable for non-compliance with the rules.
Allowing brokerages to enter designated representation agreements so clients could be represented by a specific broker or salesperson at a brokerage who would actively promote their interests in a trade.

“Phase 2 of TRESA represents the most significant change in consumer protection measures for Ontario’s real estate sector since the 1990s,” said Michael Beard, Chief Executive Officer, Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO). “Ontarians who buy or sell a home now have greater clarity on their rights, as well as the duties owed to them by real estate agents and brokerages. The changes also include new powers that will further strengthen RECO’s compliance and enforcement efforts. Ultimately, this represents important progress for consumers, while also enhancing professionalism for real estate salespeople and brokers.”

“Ontario’s REALTORS® are thrilled to see the Phase Two legislative and regulation changes come into effect. This marks a historic moment for real estate professionals in Ontario and is the result of a decade of hard work, advocacy and collaboration with the province,” said Tim Hudak, Chief Executive Officer, Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA). “Thanks to TRESA, Ontario will raise the bar on consumer protections and become a North American leader in professional standards, ethics, and modern business tools. OREA commends the Ontario government for their work on TRESA and looks forward to collaborating on the third phase of implementation.”

Quick Facts

RECO administers and enforces the Real Estate and Business Brokers Act, 2002 (REBBA), the legislation governing Ontario’s brokerages, brokers and salespersons.
On December 1, 2023, REBBA will be renamed the Trust in Real Estate Services Act, 2002.
The Trust in Real Estate Services Act (TRESA), 2020, which amends REBBA, was passed by the legislature on February 28, 2020, and received Royal Assent on March 4, 2020.
The first phase of changes related to TRESA, 2020, came into effect in October 2020. Those changes allowed salespersons and brokers to incorporate and be paid through a personal real estate corporation. They also allowed registrants to use more recognizable terms like “real estate agent” and “REALTOR®” in their advertisements to better reflect the services they provide.
Additional regulations are required to fully implement the amendments made by TRESA, 2020.

Additional Resources

Media Contacts

Doug Allingham
Minister’s Office
doug.allingham@ontario.ca

Media Desk
Ministry of Public and Business Service Delivery Communications Branch
MPBSD.MediaRelations@ontario.ca

January 4, 2024

The 2023 GTA Housing Market: High Borrowing Costs and Growing Affordability Challenges

by Gerald Lawrence

TRREB: The 2023 GTA Housing Market: High Borrowing Costs and Growing Affordability Challenges

TORONTO, ONTARIO, January 4, 2024 – While the overall demand for housing remained buoyed by record immigration in 2023, more of this demand was pointed at the rental market. The number of Greater Toronto Area (GTA) home sales in 2023 came in at less than 70,000 due to affordability issues brought about by high mortgage rates.

“High borrowing costs coupled with unrealistic federal mortgage qualification standards resulted in an unaffordable home ownership market for many households in 2023. With that said, relief seems to be on the horizon. Borrowing costs are expected to trend lower in 2024. Lower mortgage rates coupled with a relatively resilient economy should see a rebound in home sales this year,” said new Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB) President Jennifer Pearce.

There were 65,982 home sales reported through TRREB’s MLS® System in 2023 – a 12.1 per cent dip compared to 2022. Despite an uptick during the spring and summer, the number of new listings also declined in 2023. The trend for listings has been largely flat-to-down over the past decade, which is problematic in the face of a steadily growing population. On a seasonally adjusted monthly basis, sales increased compared to November, while new listings declined for the third straight month.

The average selling price for all home types in 2023 was $1,126,604, representing a 5.4 per cent decline compared to 2022. On a seasonally adjusted monthly basis, the average selling price edged higher, while the MLS® Home Price Index Composite edged lower.

“Buyers who were active in the market benefitted from more choice throughout 2023. This allowed many of these buyers to negotiate lower selling prices, alleviating some of the impact of higher borrowing costs. Assuming borrowing costs trend lower this year, look for tighter market conditions to prompt renewed price growth in the months ahead,” said TRREB Chief Market Analyst Jason Mercer.

“Record immigration into the GTA in the coming years will require a corresponding increase in the number of homes available to rent or purchase. People need to have comfort in knowing that they can plan their lives and future with the certainty that they will have the stability of an affordable place to live,” said TRREB CEO John DiMichele.

TRREB is releasing its 2024 Market Outlook and Year in Review report and digital digest on Thursday, February 8. Discover the listings, sales and price forecast for 2024 and a more in-depth look at the 2023 housing market. The outlook will also include the latest Ipsos polling on home buying and selling intentions, homeowners’ viewpoints on government policy and taxation, and insights on immigration.

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Market Update • December 31, 2023

Happy New Year | 2024!

by Gerald Lawrence

May this year bring you joy, success, and new opportunities. As we embark on another chapter, may it be filled with love, laughter, and memorable moments. Here’s to a prosperous and fulfilling year ahead!