It’s important not to subscribe to the doom and gloom media reports about the Canadian housing market, especially in the midst of COVID-19 emergency measures.
The reality is that, regardless of what you’re reading in the mainstream media, people are still finding opportunity through buying and selling real estate – and doing so with heightened safety measures in place.
Virtual tours have been a gamechanger to help during these unprecedented times. And, as Ontario begins to enter Stage 3, the reopening plan addresses the resurgence of open houses under its new gathering limits of 50 people, or 30% capacity, with physical distancing enforced. Be sure to talk to your Realtor for details to set your mind at ease if you plan on participating in virtual tours and/or open houses.
The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) reports that national home sales jumped 63% month-over-month in June. And sales are up 150% from April. This is great news coupled with the fact that the Bank of Canada held its overnight rate steady in July as expected, with governor Tiff Macklem saying low mortgage rates will be hanging around for the foreseeable future.
Many people are benefiting from lower interest rates while buying a home as well as when renewing and refinancing an existing mortgage. Be sure to speak with your mortgage agent to weigh your options.
Find your opportunity
The dream of homeownership should not be cast aside due to fears associated with the pandemic. Your real estate professional can relay accurate regional information, which will help you decide what makes the most sense for your particular situation.
Have questions about whether now may be a good time for you to buy a home or your mortgage in general? Answers are a call or email away!