As housing costs continue to rise and the desire for comfort and continuity grows, more homeowners in Vancouver are choosing to age in place—thoughtfully adapting their homes to support evolving needs rather than relocating.

Whether you are planning for your own future or assisting a loved one, renovating with longevity in mind can provide meaningful peace of mind, enhance day-to-day living, and contribute to the long-term value of your property.

Let’s explore what it means to age in place successfully—and how to approach it with intention and foresight.

👵🏽 The Growing Shift Toward Aging in Place

In today’s market, transitioning to downsized housing or assisted living can be financially and emotionally challenging. For many, the connection to a long-time home—and the surrounding community—remains deeply significant.

With the right modifications, a home can evolve alongside its owner, offering safety, independence, and comfort through every stage of life.

🏠 Defining an Age-Friendly Home

A well-designed, age-friendly home prioritizes accessibility, safety, and ease of use—without compromising on style. Common and effective upgrades include:

• Step-free entryways and widened doorways

• Main-level bedrooms and bathrooms

• Walk-in or roll-in showers with integrated grab bars

• Lever-style hardware in place of traditional knobs

• Slip-resistant flooring and enhanced, layered lighting

• Stair lifts or residential elevators for multi-level homes

• Smart home technology for security, lighting, and voice-activated support

These enhancements are not merely practical—they are empowering, enabling homeowners to maintain independence and familiar routines for longer.

💰 Financing Thoughtful Renovations

While renovation costs can vary, several financing options can help make these upgrades more accessible:

• Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOCs) for flexible, lower-interest borrowing

• Government incentives, such as the BC Home Renovation Tax Credit for Seniors and Persons with Disabilities

• Programs from Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation offering guidance and, in some cases, funding support

• Family co-investment, particularly in multi-generational living arrangements

Notably, many of these improvements can also enhance resale appeal as demand for adaptable, future-ready homes continues to grow.

📈 Renovations That Add Lasting Value

While not every accessibility feature translates directly into resale value, many upgrades are increasingly attractive to a wide range of buyers, including:

• Families supporting aging relatives

• Buyers seeking multi-generational living solutions

• Investors prioritizing flexible, future-proof properties

High-impact upgrades in the Vancouver market often include:

• Barrier-free bathrooms with contemporary finishes

• Ground-level suites suitable for extended family or rental income

• Energy-efficient improvements that complement accessibility enhancements

The goal is to strike a balance between functionality and design—creating spaces that are both practical and aesthetically refined.

🧰 Planning a Future-Ready Renovation

A strategic approach is key to maximizing both livability and value:

• Plan proactively: Renovating ahead of necessity allows for more thoughtful decisions and less disruption

• Engage experienced professionals: Seek contractors familiar with universal design or aging-in-place principles

• Design for longevity: Select materials and layouts that will serve both current and future needs

• Consult a real estate professional: Strategic guidance can help ensure your investment aligns with market expectations

• Consider adaptability: Some features can be designed to evolve or be reversed over time

🏡 A Thoughtful Perspective

Aging in place is about more than remaining in one’s home—it’s about preserving quality of life, independence, and dignity.

With careful planning and well-executed upgrades, your home can continue to support your lifestyle for years to come.

If you’re exploring options for yourself, a family member, or a client, we would be pleased to help you evaluate possibilities, connect with trusted professionals, and make informed, confident decisions.

Let’s discuss how your home can serve you—both today and into the future.  Call Sarah Toigo & Associates today!

Get ready for a colourful, musical adventure where imagination takes centre stage…

Delta Youth Theatre proudly presents Seussical JR. — a joyful spring production bursting with heart, humour, and whimsy! Inspired by the beloved stories of Dr. Seuss, this vibrant show weaves together classic characters like Horton the Elephant, the Cat in the Hat, Gertrude McFuzz, and Jojo into one unforgettable tale.

Follow Horton as he discovers a tiny world on a speck of dust and learns that “a person’s a person, no matter how small.” Along the way, audiences will be treated to catchy songs, playful storytelling, and meaningful messages about friendship, loyalty, and the power of believing in yourself.

Brought to life by the incredible young performers of Delta Youth Theatre, Seussical JR. is a celebration of creativity, community, and the magic of live theatre.

🎭 Perfect for families, kids, and anyone young at heart
Come support local talent and experience a show that’s as uplifting as it is unforgettable—this is one spring performance you won’t want to miss!

Showtimes:
Friday, May 8 - 7:00pm
Saturday, May 9 - 2:00pm
Saturday, May 9 - 7:00pm
Sunday, May 10 - 2:00pm

Location:
Equinox Theatre
750 53 Street
Delta, British Columbia V4M 3B7

For more information or to purchase tickets to our favourite youth theatre group, click here.

We understand that purchasing a home is both an exciting milestone and a significant financial decision. To ensure you feel informed and confident throughout the process, it’s important to have a clear understanding of one key component: closing costs.

Why Closing Costs Matter

Closing costs represent the additional expenses associated with finalizing your home purchase. Having a clear picture of these costs in advance allows for thoughtful financial planning and helps ensure a smooth, stress-free transition into your new home.

A Closer Look at Common Closing Costs

Legal Fees
Professional fees for a real estate lawyer or notary who manages the legal aspects of your transaction, including title transfer and document preparation.

Property Transfer Tax
A tax calculated based on the purchase price of the property. In British Columbia, certain exemptions and rebates may be available to eligible first-time home buyers.

Property Tax Adjustments
Reimbursement to the seller for any prepaid property taxes that extend beyond your possession date.

Home Inspection
While not mandatory, a professional inspection is strongly recommended to assess the condition of the property and identify any potential concerns.

Mortgage Insurance
Applicable when the down payment is less than 20% of the purchase price, providing protection to the lender.

Appraisal Fees
Charged by your lender to confirm the market value of the property as part of the financing process.

Home Insurance
Proof of an active home insurance policy is required prior to closing.

Utilities and Other Adjustments
Includes reimbursement for prepaid utilities or other expenses that may be adjusted between buyer and seller at closing.

Navigating Closing Costs with Confidence

Preparing for closing costs in advance is essential to avoiding unexpected expenses and ensuring a seamless experience on possession day. Our role is to guide you through each step, providing clarity, foresight, and tailored advice based on your specific circumstances.

We’re happy to provide a detailed estimate of closing costs relevant to your purchase, as well as connect you with trusted professionals—including real estate lawyers and mortgage specialists—to support a smooth and efficient process.

If you have any questions or are ready to begin your home-buying journey, we would be pleased to assist you every step of the way.  Call Sarah Toigo & Associates today!

There is a meaningful shift unfolding quietly within the real estate landscape.

The Bank of Canada has begun signaling that we may be approaching the end of the current interest rate easing cycle. In practical terms, this suggests that borrowing costs may not decline significantly further from here.

While this may appear subtle, its implications—particularly for buyers—can be considerable.

What This Means in Today’s Market

In recent months, stabilizing and gradually easing rates have helped re-engage buyers, fostering:

• Renewed confidence

• Improved affordability

• Greater predictability in borrowing

However, real estate markets are inherently forward-looking. They respond not only to current conditions, but to changing expectations.

When the perception emerges that rates have reached their low point, behaviour tends to shift—often quickly.

The Psychology of a Turning Point

During periods of declining rates, many buyers adopt a wait-and-see approach, anticipating further improvements.

But once rates appear to stabilize, that mindset evolves.

The question shifts from “Should I wait?” to “Is this the right time to act?”

This change in sentiment alone can stimulate demand—sometimes more rapidly than anticipated.

What Typically Follows

As buyer activity increases, several market dynamics tend to emerge:

• Heightened competition

• Accelerated listing timelines

• Stronger, more decisive offers

• Reduced flexibility in negotiations

In effect, the leverage buyers have recently enjoyed can begin to narrow.

Why This Matters Now

At present, many buyers still benefit from:

• The ability to evaluate properties thoughtfully

• Increased negotiating flexibility

• A broader selection of available inventory

Yet as confidence builds and activity resumes, these conditions can evolve—often more quickly than expected.

Recognizing the Opportunity Window

Moments of transition often present the most strategic opportunities in real estate:

• When rates have stabilized

• But widespread competition has not yet returned

This is where preparation and clarity become especially valuable. As market momentum builds, the dynamics shift once again.

A Strategic Approach

This is not a call to act with urgency—but rather with intention.

Consider the fundamentals:

• Are you financially positioned to move forward?

• Do you have a clear understanding of your borrowing capacity?

• Are you monitoring the right opportunities?

• Do you have a well-defined strategy in place?

Thoughtful preparation allows you to act with confidence, rather than react under pressure.

Final Perspective

The conclusion of a rate-cut cycle influences more than borrowing costs—it shapes behaviour. And behaviour is what ultimately drives market movement.

For those who have been waiting on the sidelines, anticipating further rate reductions, this may be an appropriate moment to reassess—not hastily, but with informed clarity.

If you would like to explore how current conditions affect your purchasing power, or how this shift may influence your timing, we would be pleased to provide tailored guidance.  Call Sarah Toigo & Associates today for your customized assessment. 

Once you’ve secured your dream home with an accepted offer and have your financing in place, things start to get exciting. However, even if the property looks great, the only way to be sure everything checks out is to hire a professional home inspector. 

Home inspections can teach you so much about your new house, including how to maintain it, and which repairs need to be carried out now or in the near future. Inspectors can also help uncover a property’s mysteries or even find nasty surprises you’ll want to know about – and possibly renegotiate on – before the sellers hand over the keys. 

Don’t skip this essential step

We get it – in red-hot markets like Vancouver where bidding wars are common, sellers may prefer dealing with buyers who have no conditions attached to their offer, including not insisting on a home inspection. However, forgoing an inspection is a bad idea, says Carol Mose, a home inspector at Mose Home Inspection Services.

“If there’s ever an issue with the house that you want to go back to the seller about, you haven’t done your due diligence and you’re not covered,” says Mose. 

Home inspectors assess a property’s main systems and check that the structure is sturdy, safe and to code. They can also alert you about repairs or deficiencies. 

“We’re there to give a fair assessment of the building and, if we see something serious, we tell the buyer to get it looked into further or to obtain a quote for the repairs,” says Mose.

A home inspection for a three-bedroom home typically takes about three hours to complete. Mose suggests booking as early as you can as most inspectors are busy.

It’s a great chance to learn about your new house

Homeowners should accompany the inspecctor for a walk-through, rather than wait for a written report, notes Mose.

“Most people know little about the inner workings of the house they’re buying, so it’s also like getting an instruction manual to your house,” she explains. 

“I’ll show homeowners where and how to turn off the water in an emergency, show them the electrical panel and teach them how the air exchange system works and when to use it. When on site, homeowners absorb all the information and, by the time we’re finished the inspection, they really do understand what’s going on so they can put the final report into context.” 

Inspectors can discover DIY projects gone wrong

Scroll through social media and it’s not hard to find examples of improvised repairs, such as DIY decks being held up with a single post, electrical configurations that can lead to fire hazards, or ill-conceived ideas where someone cut out part of a supporting floor joist to get more headroom in the basement. Inspectors see it all and will advise you what needs fixing. 

“The other day, a homeowner declared they had fixed their leaking chimney, but when I went up, I saw that it was sealed with duct tape. You can’t repair a leaking chimney flashing by wrapping it with tape,” says Mose. “I’ve also seen terrible plumbing connections with duct tape.”

A home inspection may uncover unwanted roommates

Early in her career, Mose earned a nickname that perfectly describes her job. 

“A client called me the “Crawlspace Ninja” because I’d go where no one else would go,” says Mose. In her 10 years looking into every nook and cranny of houses, Mose has seen evidence that a property has mice, insects or even rats who aren’t paying their fair share of the mortgage.

“Often, while crawling over mounds of dirt under a house, I’ll see holes that then collapse, which means there are probably rats under there with their own little colonies,” she explains. 

The last thing you want in your new home is a wasp’s nest or raccoons in the attic, bats in the walls or carpenter ants chewing your wood framing. An inspector takes a close look for signs of trouble and can help provide peace of mind.

Even new or nearly-new properties should be inspected

Mose also suggests arranging a pre-delivery inspection if you’re purchasing a brand-new house. This step is conducted with the builder before you take possession of your home, where you walk through the property and verify that all work has been completed.

“We make sure all the t’s are crossed and the i’s are dotted, because I always find something,” she says. “For example, I recently inspected a brand-new condo and found a leaking shower connection – not just the showerhead, but the actual plumbing connection – plus there was a loose drain, both of which could potentially lead to bigger problems down the road.”

Another inspection for a couple who would be the second owners of a property revealed the attic had no insulation; the builder had probably forgotten to put it in. 

“It’s always safer to get an inspection,” notes Mose. 

As you begin your real estate journey, understanding whether you’re operating in a buyer’s or seller’s market is essential to shaping a thoughtful, effective strategy. Each environment presents distinct opportunities—and knowing how to navigate them can significantly influence your outcome.

Buyer’s Market

In a buyer-favoured market, conditions tend to work to your advantage:

Expanded Choice
With higher inventory levels, you benefit from a broader selection of homes, increasing the likelihood of finding a property that truly aligns with your needs and preferences.

Greater Negotiating Leverage
Buyers are often in a stronger position to negotiate price, terms, and conditions. Sellers may be more receptive to reasonable offers, including requests for repairs, credits, or subject conditions.

Time for Considered Decisions
Reduced urgency allows for a more measured approach. You can evaluate options carefully, conduct due diligence, and move forward with confidence rather than pressure.

Seller’s Market

In a seller-driven market, the landscape shifts and requires a more strategic, decisive approach:

Constrained Inventory
Limited housing supply typically results in increased competition, with desirable properties attracting significant buyer interest—often in the form of multiple offers.

Heightened Competition
To remain competitive, buyers may need to act quickly and present strong, compelling offers. This can include offering above asking price or minimizing conditions to appeal to sellers.

Timing and Market Awareness
In fast-moving markets, timing is critical. A clear understanding of current trends and pricing dynamics can help you act decisively and position your offer effectively.

A Strategic Approach, Tailored to You

Being well-informed about market conditions empowers you to make confident, strategic decisions throughout your home-buying journey.

If you’d like guidance tailored to your specific goals—or simply want to better understand how to navigate the current market— we’re here to help. Together, we can develop a refined approach that positions you for success and ensures you find the right home with confidence.  Call Sarah Toigo & Associates today!

Diverging trends widen as detached housing gains steam

Home sales registered on the MLS® in Metro Vancouver remain relatively flat compared to April last year, but a divergence is emerging between market segments.

The Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR) reports that residential sales in the region totalled 2,110 in April 2026, a 2.5 per cent decrease from the 2,163 sales recorded in April 2025. This was 22.9 per cent below the 10-year seasonal average (2,735).

“Last month we noted that a divergence was emerging between sales trends in the detached and multi-family segments, which continued in April,” said Andrew Lis, GVR chief economist and vice-president data analytics. “Sales of detached homes have been gaining year-over-year, while sales in the multi-family segment have declined, and this pattern is consistent across most areas. The fact this pattern is so broad-based reduces the likelihood what we’re seeing is just a blip in the data since the momentum isn’t isolated to small pockets of the market.”

There were 6,684 detached, attached and apartment properties newly listed for sale on the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in Metro Vancouver in April 2026. This represents a 2.4 per cent decrease compared to the 6,850 properties listed in April 2025. This was 15.5 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average (5,785).

The total number of properties currently listed for sale on the MLS® system in Metro Vancouver is 16,236, a 0.2 per cent increase compared to April 2025 (16,207). This is 37.9 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average (11,773).

 Across all detached, attached and apartment property types, the sales-to-active listings ratio for April 2026 is 13.5 per cent. By property type, the ratio is 11.3 per cent for detached homes, 15 per cent for attached, and 14.7 per cent for apartments. Analysis of the historical data suggests downward pressure on home prices occurs when the ratio dips below 12 per cent for a sustained period, while home prices often experience upward pressure when it surpasses 20 per cent over several months.

“While it’s not always the case, there have been periods where the detached segment has acted as a bellwether of market sentiment, and it’s a question whether this time around this might be the case,” Lis said. “Prices across all segments remain relatively flat month over month as inventory levels remain sufficient to keep price escalation at bay. But with the detached segment picking up steam heading into the full swing of spring, it may only be a matter of time until the multi-family segments follow suit, which would slowly draw down standing inventory levels unless a surge of sellers come to market with their properties. We’ll be watching the next few months of data closely to see if pent-up demand re-enters the market heading into summer.”

The MLS® Home Price Index composite benchmark price for all residential properties in Metro Vancouver is currently $1,098,000. This represents a 6.9 per cent decrease over April 2025 and a 0.6 per cent decrease compared to March 2026.

Sales of detached homes in April 2026 reached 659, a 14 per cent increase from the 578 detached sales recorded in April 2025. The benchmark price for a detached home is $1,840,700. This represents an 8.3 per cent decrease from April 2025 and a 0.8 per cent decrease compared to March 2026.

 Sales of apartment homes reached 1,009 in April 2026, a 10.7 per cent decrease compared to the 1,130 sales in April 2025. The benchmark price of an apartment home is $703,000. This represents a 7.9 per cent decrease from April 2025 and a 0.5 per cent decrease compared to March 2026.

 Attached home sales in April 2026 totalled 433, a two per cent decrease compared to the 442 sales in April 2025. The benchmark price of a townhouse is $1,043,400. This represents a 5.1 per cent decrease from April 2025 and a 0.4 per cent decrease compared to March 2026.

Call Sarah Toigo & Associates today to discuss what this means for you.

Location:  735 Gilchrist Drive, Tsawwassen
Programs:  English & Early French Immersion
Number of Students: 430
Current Principal:  Mrs. Tee

2025-2026 School Goals

École South Park Elementary is located in Tsawwassen, Delta. Our school has approximately 430 students in 19 divisions; 6 English divisions and 13 Early French Immersion divisions. Our school is adjacent to South Delta Secondary School and is located very close to Winskill Aquatic Centre.

Building on the foundation that schools are learning places, we believe that all of us at the school are learners.

École South Park is a closely connected community. The parents at École South Park are an integral part of the team and we have a Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) that is very supportive of our school community. 

The Delta School District Vision 2030 guides our work and is rooted in what we hope for our learners. 

Here is the link to see Delta’s Vision 2030, https://www.deltasd.bc.ca/district/our-vision/

Based on our school scan, as we continue with a Math Minds focus this year, we will add on the goal of developing math fluency. 

Our Focus and Inquiry Question

We will expand math instruction to include strategic practice with a focus on building fact fluency.

Why Fact Fluency?

Being able to add and subtract within 20 and multiply and divide within 100 is essential for computational fluency. Fluency with math facts frees working memory from the task of calculating and allows students to focus on building understanding as they learn new concepts such as fractions or decimals, as well as using mental math strategies for operations with larger numbers.

Our inquiry question for 2025-2026 is:

“Will consistent strategic practice increase student fact fluency (the ability to recall math facts quickly, accurately and flexibly)?”

As students develop automaticity with math facts, cognitive load in calculating will be reduced allowing students to focus on learning new mathematical concepts.

Our Focus Questions:

· How will strategic, consistent practice increase student automaticity with math facts?

· Which practice opportunities yield the highest results for increasing students automaticity with math facts?

Our Learning:

Staff will engage in new professional learning through professional development days, support from district math coordinators, lunch and learn sessions, fact fluency sprints and a professional book club. As well, time and opportunity will be provided for staff to work with one another to collaborate and share their learning.

SCHOOL VALUES:

As South Park Sockeyes, we SWIM together.

For more information on South Park Elementary, please click here.

Think you don’t need a home inspection when purchasing a new build? Think again! Here are four reasons you need a home inspection—even if it’s a new build. 

1. A home inspection is different from the final walk-through with the builder

During the final walk-through with the buyers, their REALTOR® and the builder, any last-minute details—like paint touch-ups—can be fixed before you get the keys. According to the Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA), many new homes and condos built by licensed builders carry a third-party home warranty—they’re mandatory in Quebec, Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia, but in other provinces, individual builders can decide whether to offer one or not. CHBA members are required to offer a warranty.

Generally, this warranty protects the buyer against any material or workmanship defects, but only if they’re found before the coverage expires—usually between one and five years. Often, making a warranty claim after you’ve moved in and having crews coming to your property to deal with problems can be time-consuming, inconvenient, and stressful.

Unlike during a walk-through, a professional home inspector goes through your new property from top to bottom before the final walk-through and provides a written report detailing any problems that may have been overlooked by tradespeople. 

2. A home inspector provides an impartial, expert report

Just because a house is new doesn’t mean it’s perfect, says Pascal Cabana, a building expert and technical supervisor at Legault-Dubois. The company offers home inspections and other services including air quality testing and lab analysis.

“There can be a mouldy attic, an improperly installed window, or a creaking floor,” explains Cabana. “It’s much easier to have these problems rectified by your contractor before taking possession of the building than having to resort to the warranty.”

Having a home inspection report in hand during the pre-delivery walkthrough also helps ensure all issues are dealt with, says Cabana. 

“The client and the contractor write down the elements to be corrected or completed and enter due dates for the work, which shouldn’t exceed six months. Only once everything is in line with the client’s expectations do they agree to take possession of the house, and here’s where the services of a home inspector are very valuable,” he explains. That’s because when the buyer already has a list of things that need attention, the information can be clearly related to the contractor during the final walkthrough.

“The inspector’s expertise allows buyers of new homes who do not know the building to benefit from an impartial, professional opinion on the state of the work,” adds Cabana.

3. Mistakes can happen, and inspectors often find them

While most builders deliver high-quality work, mistakes can happen.  

“During our inspections of new homes, the most frequent problem encountered is everything related to flashings: balconies, doors, and windows junctions. These are points prone to water infiltration,” Cabana explains. 

Cabana has also seen issues with landfilling that doesn’t leave adequate clearance between the ground and the bottom of the exterior wall, indoor garages that leak, and new condos that are not airtight, which can lead to humidity and condensation problems. Provinces have different established inspection checklists for new condos or homes, notes Cabana.

“Through this list, the building inspector will inspect the foundation, the exterior cladding, the roof, the doors, and the windows to verify the quality of the installation,” he explains. “They’ll inspect the stairs, terraces and balconies, the chimney, and the exhaust ducts. Inside, they’ll focus on interior finishes, lighting, ventilation and heating systems, plumbing, and so on.”

4. A home inspection can save you headaches

Buyers may assume if their property is covered under a residential construction warranty, they don’t have to worry if something goes wrong once they move in. However, it’s always easier for the buyer and the contractor to carry out corrective work while the workers are still on site, advises Cabana. 

“Otherwise, the contractor must withdraw part of their team from another site to return and rectify the situation, which leads to additional expenses and delays on the contractor’s other sites,” he says. “This can cause resentment and insecurity for the owners plus friction and inconvenience for everyone.”

Expect to pay $550 or more for a condo unit inspection, and more than $800 for a new home. A home inspection can give buyers something priceless: peace of mind.

Sarah Toigo & Associates can help guide you through the entire new construction process and be a valuable resource.  Contact us today to learn more about new construction.

Few experiences are more frustrating for sellers than receiving what feels like a lowball offer.

The instinctive reaction is often immediate and emotional:
“That’s insulting.”
“They’re not serious.”
“Let’s ignore it.”

However, in today’s real estate market, a low offer isn’t necessarily a negative signal. When approached strategically, it can be the first step toward a successful negotiation.

A Low Offer Signals Interest

In a market where buyers have choices, many listings receive little to no activity. A low offer, while not ideal, indicates engagement.

It means a buyer has:

• Viewed the property

• Considered it carefully

• Taken the initiative to submit a formal offer

That’s not a setback—it’s an opportunity to begin a dialogue.

Buyers Are Testing the Market

In balanced or buyer-favouring conditions, it’s common for buyers to start cautiously. Their goal is often to gauge:

• Seller motivation

• Flexibility on price

• The true position behind the listing

This approach isn’t always about undervaluing the home—it’s about opening negotiations.

Silence Ends the Opportunity

One of the most significant missteps a seller can make is dismissing a low offer outright.

When there’s no response:

• The conversation ends

• The buyer moves on

• Valuable momentum is lost

Even if the offer falls short, engaging keeps the negotiation alive and maintains your position of control.

Counteroffers Build Leverage

A well-structured counteroffer does more than adjust price—it reshapes the dynamic. It:

• Repositions expectations closer to market value

• Signals confidence without urgency

• Keeps the buyer invested

• Creates a pathway toward common ground

Successful negotiation is rarely a single exchange; it’s a progression.

From Low Start to Strong Finish

It’s not uncommon for an initially low offer to evolve into:

• A fair market agreement

• Favourable, clean terms

• A smooth and efficient closing

The opening number does not dictate the final outcome—strategy does.

Managing the Emotional Response

Low offers can feel personal, but they are not. They reflect:

• Current market conditions

• Buyer strategy

• Perceived value at a moment in time

Maintaining objectivity is essential to protecting both your position and your result.

Final Perspective

Not every low offer will lead to a deal—but every offer deserves thoughtful consideration.

In today’s market, opportunities rarely arrive perfectly aligned with expectations. More often, they begin as conversations.

If you’re preparing to sell and want a clear, strategic approach to navigating offers—strong or weak—we’d be glad to help you position yourself for the best possible outcome.  Call Sarah Toigo & Associates today for your free consultation.  

In Q1 2026, the national aggregate home price ticked up a modest 0.7% over Q4 2025

Canada’s spring housing market is beginning to show signs of life after a long winter that kept many buyers and sellers on the sidelines. While headlines around economic uncertainty and global conflict continue to weigh on consumer confidence, a recent uptick in activity suggests a slow but welcome start to the spring market.

According to the Royal LePage® House Price Survey and Market Forecast, the aggregate1 price of a home in Canada decreased 2.0% year over year to $812,900 in the first quarter of 2026. On a quarter-over-quarter basis, however, the national aggregate home price remained relatively flat, increasing just 0.7%.

“In a typical spring, Canada’s housing market would already be gaining momentum, but persistently low consumer confidence remains a drag on activity – especially in our most expensive markets,” said Phil Soper, president and CEO, Royal LePage. “That hesitation is being driven by uncertainty beyond our borders. The inflationary impact of America’s war with Iran is pushing energy prices higher, with ripple effects across the broader economy, while ongoing trade negotiations ahead of the CUSMA review are adding to concerns about economic stability and job security. For many Canadians, the headlines are hard to ignore.”

That sentiment can be seen in a Bank of Canada survey conducted in the fourth quarter of 2025, where Canadians were asked when they believe Canada–U.S. trade tensions had – or will have – the greatest impact on the economy and inflation. Half of respondents (50%) indicated that the most significant effects are still to come, while 27% believe the worst has already passed.2 

“Three factors figure prominently in today’s sluggish market: hesitant first-time buyers, a return to sell-before-buy behaviour, and limited inventory in several key markets,” added Soper. “First-time buyers are the engine of the housing market, and when they pause, it ripples through every segment. Move-up buyers are also taking a more measured approach, often choosing to sell before committing to their next purchase; a behaviour we haven’t seen in years. In some regions, however, the issue isn’t demand – it’s supply.

“What’s clear is that many Canadians still intend to move. Our sales professionals, working with buyers and sellers every day, are approaching the spring and summer markets with cautious optimism.” 

According to the central bank, nearly one third (29%) of Canadians said they were likely to move within the next 12 months, up from 22% from a year earlier. Similarly, 20% of homeowners said they were likely to sell their home within the next year, up from 14%.3

Soft conditions persist in the condo market

The Royal LePage National House Price Composite is compiled from proprietary property data nationally and regionally in 65 of the nation’s largest real estate markets. When broken out by housing type, the national median price of a single-family detached home decreased 1.3% year over year to $857,300, while the median price of a condominium decreased 3.4% to $577,600. On a quarter-over-quarter basis, the median price of a single-family detached home and a condominium increased modestly by 1.0% and 0.4%, respectively. Price data, which includes both resale and new build, is provided by RPS Real Property Solutions, a leading Canadian real estate valuation company.

“Despite ongoing uncertainty, the underlying fundamentals of Canada’s housing market remain sound. For buyers, the environment has improved meaningfully. Competition has eased, interest rates have stabilized, and in many parts of the country prices have levelled off – with declines in our most expensive markets, Toronto and Vancouver, as the price gap with more affordable cities continues to narrow,” added Soper.

“National trends may dominate the headlines, but regional realities are what define market conditions on the ground.”

In the first quarter, the aggregate price of a home decreased 4.7% in the Greater Toronto Area and 4.5% in Greater Vancouver.

“Because of their size, softness in British Columbia and southern Ontario has an outsized impact on national averages,” said Soper. “Meanwhile, strong demand in a much more affordable Quebec market has allowed the province’s major cities to lead in both activity and price growth. On the Prairies, sales have slowed somewhat, yet home values continue to rise modestly, reflecting ongoing supply constraints. Atlantic Canada’s economy has been bolstered by a surge in Newfoundland’s energy sector and a recovery in Nova Scotia’s exports. While sales volumes have moderated, low inventory and a continued stream of interprovincial migrants seeking affordability have fuelled continued, modest home price appreciation.”

Middle East tensions could impact mortgage rates in Canada

Rising energy costs, driven by the escalating conflict in Iran, have introduced renewed uncertainty into the interest rate outlook, which may lead to a shift in market activity. With inflation currently sitting within the Bank of Canada’s target range, and unemployment ticking up in recent months (6.7% in February and March),4 the overnight lending rate has remained on hold at 2.25% since last October. However, the risk of inflation reaccelerating has brought the possibility of future rate hikes back into focus. 

“With inflation pressures resurfacing, the Bank of Canada has no room to lower interest rates further – and the next move could be upward,” said Soper. “For buyers planning to enter the market this year, securing a mortgage pre-approval sooner rather than later is a prudent step, particularly as rate holds have a limited shelf life. As that reality sets in, we expect more buyers to come off the sidelines through the spring and summer months.”

First quarter press release highlights:

• The Greater Montreal Area’s aggregate home price increased 4.5% year over year, while the greater Toronto and Vancouver markets recorded declines of 5.7% and 4.1%, respectively, in the fourth quarter. 

• Quebec City recorded the highest year-over-year aggregate price increase (13.2%) among Canada’s major regions for the seventh consecutive quarter.

• Royal LePage expects spring market activity to rise, but not surge, as buyers re-engage amid reduced borrowing costs and improved housing affordability

Written by Anne-Elise Cugliari Allegritti, Royal LePage VP of Research and Communications

Make a strong first impression this season

Spring is one of the most active times in the housing market, and buyers are especially drawn to homes that embrace the season. A well-staged outdoor space can instantly boost curb appeal, create emotional connection, and set the tone before anyone even steps inside. Fresh greenery, clean lines, and inviting details can make a property feel move-in ready and well cared for.

Here’s how to stage your outdoor space for springtime showings.

Refresh Landscaping for Instant Appeal

After winter, outdoor areas often need a reset. Start with basic cleanup by removing debris, trimming overgrown shrubs, and edging lawns. Adding fresh mulch to garden beds creates a polished look and helps plants stand out. Seasonal flowers such as tulips, daffodils, or pansies can add vibrant color and signal that the home is ready for spring.

Healthy, green grass is another key factor. If the lawn is patchy, consider reseeding or using sod to create a lush, uniform appearance. Even small improvements in landscaping can dramatically elevate the overall look.

Create Inviting Outdoor Living Spaces

Buyers are not just looking at the home itself, but also how they can use the outdoor space. Arrange patio furniture to define seating areas and create a sense of purpose. Simple additions like outdoor cushions, a clean rug, or a small table setting can help buyers visualize entertaining or relaxing outside.

Keep décor minimal and neutral to appeal to a broad audience. The goal is to showcase the space rather than overwhelm it.

Focus on Cleanliness and Maintenance

A spotless exterior signals that the home has been well maintained. Power wash driveways, walkways, siding, and decks to remove dirt and buildup from the colder months. Clean windows inside and out to maximize natural light.

Inspect for small repairs such as loose railings, chipped paint, or cracked pavers. Addressing these details can prevent distractions during showings and reinforce a sense of quality.

Highlight Seasonal Features

Spring offers natural advantages that should be emphasized. Open up patio umbrellas, uncover outdoor furniture, and ensure features like fire pits or water elements are clean and functional. If the property includes a garden, make sure it looks intentional and well cared for rather than overgrown.

If weather allows, subtle touches like a light floral scent near the entry or a blooming planter by the front door can enhance the sensory experience.

Improve Lighting for Evening Showings

Longer days do not eliminate the need for good outdoor lighting. Soft, warm lighting along pathways, porches, and patios creates a welcoming atmosphere for late-day showings. Solar lights or updated fixtures can improve both safety and visual appeal without significant investment.

Keep It Simple and Seasonal

Spring staging works best when it feels fresh and effortless. Avoid overcrowding spaces with too many decorations or personal items. Instead, focus on clean lines, natural elements, and a cohesive look that highlights the property’s best features.

A thoughtfully staged outdoor space can make a lasting impression and help buyers picture themselves enjoying the home throughout the season and beyond.

Written by Michelle McNally, Royal LePage Senior Manager, Research and Communications