The recent announcement of a 25% tariff on certain goods imported into the U.S. has sparked debates across industries. While some worry about potential economic ripple effects, the Canadian real estate market could see significant benefits. Here’s why these tariffs might actually boost Canada’s housing sector and create exciting opportunities for homebuyers and investors.

1. Increased Demand for Canadian Goods and Services

With U.S. import costs rising due to tariffs, many companies may turn to Canadian manufacturers and suppliers as an alternative. This shift could drive job growth, boost wages, and enhance consumer confidence—key factors that often lead to increased home purchases. A stronger job market means more Canadians will be financially equipped to invest in real estate, fueling demand for housing across major markets.

2. Attracting Global Investments

Tariffs create uncertainty in global trade, and investors tend to seek stable markets with strong economic fundamentals. Canada’s reputation as a safe and prosperous country makes its real estate market particularly attractive. Foreign investors may view Canadian property as a valuable asset in times of economic volatility, leading to higher demand and increased property values.

3. Strengthening the Industrial and Commercial Real Estate Sector

With U.S. tariffs making American imports more expensive, Canadian businesses may expand their domestic production to meet both local and international demand. This could lead to a surge in industrial and commercial real estate development, creating new opportunities for investors and developers. Warehouses, manufacturing hubs, and logistics centers could experience growth, further strengthening Canada’s real estate landscape.

4. Encouraging Domestic Homeownership

As businesses flourish and employment rates improve, more Canadians may opt to buy homes instead of renting. This could create a more vibrant housing market with increasing sales activity and appreciation in property values. The resulting equity growth benefits homeowners and encourages further investment in real estate.

5. Stabilizing the Canadian Dollar

Historically, economic shifts caused by trade tariffs have led to fluctuations in currency values. A stable or slightly depreciated Canadian dollar can make our real estate market even more attractive to foreign buyers, increasing international interest in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal. This influx of capital can help sustain market growth.

Final Thoughts

While tariffs often bring uncertainty, they can also open doors to unexpected opportunities. Canada’s real estate sector is well-positioned to benefit from increased economic activity, global investment, and a thriving job market. Whether you’re a homeowner, investor, or developer, this shift could be a golden opportunity to capitalize on a stronger and more resilient housing market.

If you're considering investing in real estate or want to explore how these changes could benefit you, now is the perfect time to take action!

Buying your first home in Ontario, especially in the competitive Toronto GTA market, can be both exciting and overwhelming. With evolving real estate trends, mortgage rules, and government incentives, it’s essential to stay informed. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the home-buying process in 2025 and secure your dream home in Ontario.

Step 1: Determine Your Budget and Affordability

Before house hunting, assess your financial situation. Consider your savings, income, and monthly expenses to determine how much you can afford. Use an online mortgage affordability calculator and factor in additional costs like closing fees, property taxes, and home insurance.

Step 2: Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

A mortgage pre-approval strengthens your buying power and sets a clear budget. Lenders will evaluate your credit score, income, and debt-to-income ratio. Shop around for the best mortgage rates and terms from banks, credit unions, and mortgage brokers.

Step 3: Understand First-Time Home Buyer Incentives

As a first-time buyer in Ontario, you may qualify for government programs such as:

• First-Time Home Buyer Incentive (FTHBI) – A shared-equity mortgage with the Government of Canada.
• Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP) – Allows you to withdraw up to $60,000 from your RRSP tax-free.
• Land Transfer Tax Rebate – Up to $4,000 in rebates on land transfer taxes.
• Tax-Free First Home Savings Account (FHSA) – Contribute up to $8,000 per year towards your down payment.

Step 4: Find a Knowledgeable Real Estate Agent

Hiring a local GTA real estate agent can make a huge difference. A good agent provides market insights, negotiates offers, and guides you through the paperwork. Look for an agent who understands your needs and has experience with first-time buyers.

Step 5: Start House Hunting in the Right Neighbourhood

Define your home-buying criteria, including location, property type, and must-have features. Research neighbourhoods based on:

• Proximity to work, schools, and public transit
• Crime rates and safety
• Local amenities and future developments: Use real estate websites like SMHOMES.CA to browse listings and attend open houses.

Step 6: Make an Offer and Negotiate

Once you find the right home, your agent will help you make a competitive offer. Be prepared for negotiation, especially in Toronto’s hot market. Common contingencies include:

• Home inspection
• Financing approval
• Closing date preferences

Step 7: Secure a Home Inspection

A home inspection helps identify potential issues such as foundation cracks, plumbing problems, or outdated electrical systems. While optional, it’s highly recommended to avoid costly surprises.

Step 8: Finalize Your Mortgage and Secure Financing

After your offer is accepted, your lender will finalize your mortgage details. Ensure you provide all required documents promptly. Choose between a fixed or variable-rate mortgage based on your long-term financial goals.

Step 9: Prepare for Closing Costs and Legal Requirements

Closing costs typically range from 1.5% to 4% of the home’s purchase price. Key expenses include:

• Land transfer tax (LTT)
• Lawyer fees
• Home Insurance
• Property tax adjustments Work with a real estate lawyer to review contracts, register your property, and ensure a smooth closing process.

Step 10: Move In and Enjoy Your New Home!

Congratulations! Once the deal is closed, you’ll receive your keys and can start moving in. Set up utilities, update your address, and explore your new neighbourhood.

Final Thoughts

Buying a home in Toronto GTA in 2025 requires careful planning, financial readiness, and expert guidance. By following these 10 steps, you’ll be well on your way to homeownership. If you’re ready to start your home-buying journey, consult a trusted real estate professional to make the process seamless.

Looking for personalized guidance on buying a home in Ontario? Contact us today for expert real estate advice tailored to your needs!

When a “Coming Soon” sign appears in front of a home, it signifies that the property is not yet listed on an MLS^® (Multiple Listing Service) system. This means the listing isn’t publicly accessible or available for other Realtors to view. Typically, the sign displays the contact information of the real estate agent and their brokerage. If a prospective buyer is interested, they’re left with no option but to reach out to the person named on the sign.

Rules for MLS Listings

Understanding TRREB's Guidelines According to the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB), the rules for adding a property to the MLS^® system are as follows:

MLS^® Rule R-365 states that listings must be entered into the MLS^® System within two (2) TRREB business days following the commencement date. (TRREB business days are Monday to Friday, excluding statutory holidays.)

Regional Implications It’s important to note that homes listed for sale in the Durham Region are included in TRREB’s MLS® system. Since Durham doesn’t operate its own system, it adheres to TRREB’s rules.

Why Sellers Use "Coming Soon" Signs

Generating Early Interest Why might a home seller opt for a “Coming Soon” sign instead of waiting to list the property on the MLS® system? Here are a few possible reasons:

• Creating Anticipation: In a seller’s market, where property inventory is limited, early publicity can build anticipation. Buyers might hold off on other offers to wait for this property to hit the market.

• Encouraging Buyer Patience: Buyers might delay decisions on competing listings in favour of waiting for your property.

Ongoing Repairs and Preparation

• Sellers might be completing minor repairs or staging preparations and want to create interest during this time.

• The “Coming Soon” period can act as a motivator for sellers to finalize their efforts.

Pre-Marketing Activities

• Listing a property involves numerous steps, including professional photography, videography, and creating marketing materials. A “Coming Soon” period allows sellers to begin marketing while completing these tasks.

Exclusive Listing Opportunities

• In some cases, sellers and agents may agree to a reduced commission if the property is sold during the “Coming Soon” period. This exclusive arrangement might benefit sellers if the buyer is unrepresented, though it does limit exposure.

The Drawbacks for Sellers

Reduced Market Visibility

• Without MLS^® exposure, offers might not reflect the property’s true market value.

Potential Ethical Concerns

• Agents might prioritize personal gain over the seller’s best interest, such as negotiating private sales or limiting buyer access.

Selective Access Risks

• By controlling who can view the property, agents could create situations where buyers they know are favoured.

Why "Coming Soon" Benefits Agents

Capturing Exclusive Leads

• Buyers interested in the property must contact the listing agent directly, creating opportunities for future business.

Commission Advantages

• Selling the property without involving cooperating brokerages can lead to higher retained commissions for the agent.

CREA’s Realtor^® Cooperation Policy

Understanding the Duty of Cooperation On January 3, 2024, the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) implemented a new “Duty of Cooperation” policy under Article 30 of the Realtor Code. This policy mandates placing a listing on an MLS® system within three (3) days of any public marketing.

What Qualifies as Public Marketing? Some examples include:

• Installing a sign on the property

• Posting on social media (even in private groups)

• Advertising in any format

• Sharing the listing on public websites

• Sending emails to multiple recipients outside the listing agent’s brokerage
  
  

Exemptions and Benefits

• Exceptions include commercial listings and new builds. This policy ensures transparency, benefits consumers, and provides equal access to listings for all Realtors and their clients.

Final Thoughts

Consider including 'real estate advice', 'home selling insights', and 'MLS benefits' to target relevant search terms.

Making an Informed Decision “Coming Soon” signs can be valuable for sellers, provided they understand the potential risks and rewards. Sellers should work closely with their Realtor® to determine whether this approach aligns with their goals.

Maximizing Market Potential Ultimately, listing the property on the MLS^® system ensures the broadest exposure, maximizing the chances of selling at the best possible price. Transparency and cooperation between agents and clients are essential to achieving the best outcome in any real estate transaction.

The United States' recent decision to impose a 25% tariff on Canadian goods has sparked widespread concern across multiple industries. The economic impact could be far-reaching from manufacturing and agriculture to retail and construction. But what does this mean for you, and how will it affect the Canadian real estate market? Let’s explore the potential consequences and what homebuyers, sellers, and investors should consider in the coming months.

How the 25% Tariff Will Impact the Canadian Economy

Tariffs function as a tax on imported goods, making them more expensive for American buyers. As a result, Canadian businesses exporting to the U.S. will face higher costs, which could lead to reduced demand, lower revenue, and job losses. Some key effects on the broader economy include:

1. Inflationary Pressures – Higher tariffs could push up prices on goods and services, affecting consumer spending power.
2. Job Losses – Industries heavily reliant on U.S. exports may be forced to downsize, leading to unemployment.
3. Slower Economic Growth – A decline in exports and weaker consumer demand may slow Canada’s overall economic growth.

Real Estate Implications: Rising Costs and Uncertainty

The Canadian real estate market is deeply interconnected with economic conditions, and this tariff could have several significant effects:

1. Higher Construction Costs

Many building materials, including lumber, steel, and aluminum, are either directly affected by tariffs or will experience price hikes due to supply chain disruptions. This means:

• Higher home construction costs
• Increased prices for renovations and commercial developments
• Potential delays in new housing projects due to cost concerns
  
  

2. Interest Rate Uncertainty

A weaker economy could lead the Bank of Canada to reconsider its interest rate policies. If economic growth slows significantly, we might see lower interest rates to stimulate the market. However, if inflation rises due to tariff-related price increases, the Bank of Canada could raise interest rates, making mortgages more expensive.

3. Decreased Housing Demand

With job losses and financial uncertainty looming, homebuyers may delay purchasing decisions. Fewer buyers in the market could lead to:

• Lower home prices in some regions
• Longer selling times for homeowners
• A shift in demand towards more affordable housing options

4. Commercial Real Estate Challenges

Industries directly impacted by tariffs, such as manufacturing and retail, may struggle to maintain profitability. This could result in:

• Business closures or downsizing
• Increased commercial vacancy rates
• Reduced rental income for commercial property owners

What Can You Do?

For Homebuyers: If you’re in the market for a home, monitor interest rate trends and consider the potential for lower prices in certain areas.

For Homeowners: If you’re thinking of selling, be mindful of market conditions and price your home competitively.

For Investors: Diversify your investments and consider sectors that may be less impacted by tariffs.

Final Thoughts

The 25% tariff imposed by the U.S. on Canadian goods could have wide-ranging effects on the economy and real estate market. While the full impact remains to be seen, staying informed and adaptable will be key to navigating these changes. If you have questions about how this could affect your buying or selling decisions, reach out to a real estate professional for expert guidance.

Are you looking for real estate opportunities in a shifting market? Contact me today to discuss your options and make informed decisions.