For the tenth consecutive quarter, affordability has remained a key topic in Canada's housing market. While many hoped mortgage rates would provide some relief, it's clear the focus has now shifted to home prices and income growth. Over the coming year, economists predict that mortgage rates will likely hold steady or even rise, which means any improvements in affordability will depend much more on home prices stabilizing. Slower population growth may help ease housing demand and keep prices from climbing too quickly, while a stronger job market is expected to support household incomes.

What stands out to me after three decades of serving buyers and sellers in Greater Vancouver and the Fraser Valley is just how varied our local markets are. Conversations I’m having with clients in Vancouver or Toronto are fundamentally different from those in Calgary or Edmonton right now. Here in our region, as the labour market improves, there’s hope for better income support, but true affordability gains will depend on whether home prices show sustained moderation. My approach is always to help you understand how these national trends impact our local neighbourhoods—so you can make the right move for your future.