Exciting announcement from the Bank of Canada: today, they announced a 50-basis point drop in the overnight lending rate, bringing it down to 3.25%. This marks the second rate cut this year over 25-basis points, and it’s sparking renewed optimism in the real estate market.
With borrowing costs becoming more affordable, we’re already seeing increased activity. In October, home sales jumped 16.7% nationally compared to the previous month, a trend expected to continue into 2025.
Here’s what this means for you:
For Buyers:
Pent-up demand among buyers has been growing, with many waiting for significant rate cuts to make their move. Now, with 5-year fixed mortgage rates dropping to around 4.04%, more buyers are expected to re-enter the market. This could make early 2025 an excellent time to explore new opportunities before the spring market heats up.
For Sellers:
If you’ve been considering selling, this is your moment to prepare. As buyer confidence increases, competition and prices are likely to rise. Listing your property in the coming months could position you ahead of the anticipated spring surge.
For Homeowners:
Lower rates mean reduced monthly payments for those with variable-rate mortgages. For example, a homeowner who purchased a property in January 2024 at the average national price now sees their payments drop by over $600 per month.
If you’re thinking about buying, selling, or simply curious about how these changes might affect your plans, let’s connect. We’re happy to help you navigate the evolving market and explore the best opportunities for your unique goals.
The Bank of Canada’s next rate announcement is scheduled for January 29, 2025. Until then, let’s strategize to make the most of this dynamic market.
