The Bank of Canada's recent and anticipated rate cuts in 2025 are expected to influence home buying in several ways, primarily by improving affordability and stimulating demand. However, the extent of the impact depends on various factors, including the pace of rate cuts, economic conditions, and potential external risks like U.S. tariffs. Here's a detailed breakdown:   1. Lower Borrowing Costs...

The federal government is delaying its multibillion-dollar plan to hike taxes on capital gains, a move that clears up uncertainty heading into tax season but could worsen the fiscal bottom line for both Ottawa and the provinces. The major policy was first announced in the federal budget in April, 2024, which set an implementation date of June 25 of that year. However, Parliament had yet to approve...

The federal government hopes to make home ownership more accessible to first-time buyers with new mortgage rules that took effect Dec. 15. Originally announced in September, the new rules enacted by the federal finance ministry aim to boost affordability for first-time millennial and generation Z buyers. Here are some key points. New price cap aims to boost affordability As of Dec. 15, the federal...

First, What Is an Outdoor Air Conditioner Cover? Air conditioner covers, available at most hardware stores, are designed to protect an outdoor air conditioning unit from the elements during the fall and winter months when it’s not running. Covers for air conditioners come in many different sizes, styles, and materials, including mesh, top-only covers, armor-plated, insulated, adjustable,...

Good Morning! The Bank of Canada has steadily lowered interest rates since June, with three quarter-point cuts in a row. Today, they announced a half-point cut, lowering the key rate to 3.75%. This move aims to get borrowing costs back to a more typical level after the sharp rate hikes we’ve seen over the past year. Inflation has cooled off, hitting the bank’s 2% target in August and dropping...