While average home prices across most provinces and territories have cooled considerably since reaching their peak in February, several markets are still seeing prices rise year-over-year.
According to the latest data released by the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA), major markets such as the Greater Vancouver and Toronto areas, Montreal and Calgary all saw average home prices increase between September 2021 and September 2022. However, smaller real estate markets situated outside of these hubs saw higher annual growth rates by comparison.
This is because rising interest rates have a greater influence on home prices in larger, more expensive markets, said Shaun Cathcart, CREA’s senior economist and director of housing data and market analysis.
“Interest rates have a massively greater impact on places where the price to income ratio is much higher,” Cathcart told CTVNews.ca in an interview on Wednesday. “People need to be borrowing more closely to the limits of the stress test [in more expensive markets].”
Regions that saw home prices balloon during the pandemic, such as Ontario and British Columbia, are now seeing their annual gains shrink as buyers are faced with higher stress test rates, Cathcart said. On the other hand, affordable markets such as the Prairies and Maritimes may not have made the same kinds of gains, but did a better job of holding onto them, he said.
“In some of these more affordable places, [average prices] not only continued to climb for longer in the spring, they’ve also declined by less from then until now,” said Cathcart.
In Victoria, B.C., for example, the average price of a home rose 15 per cent from September 2021 to September 2022. During the same period, average home prices in Saguenay, Que., increased 13.9 per cent. Residents of Yarmouth, N.S., saw the highest annual growth of any real estate market in September 2022 with a rate of 21.7 per cent. These figures are MLS benchmark prices, calculated to reflect price trends based on the majority of homes in a given area.
However, these kinds of price gains are not likely to stick around as rising interest rates continue to drive down home prices, Cathcart said.
“Those year-over-year gains are rapidly shrinking with every month that goes by,” said Cathcart. “[October] might be the last month that you see so many markets that still have year-over-year gains.”
Below is a list of properties CTVNews.ca has gathered that are on sale in markets that have seen some of the highest annual growth rates across the country.
YARMOUTH
(Louisette Higgins, Modern Realty)
Type: House
Price: $339,900
Year Built: 1987
Property Size: 200.67 sq. m
Lot Size: under 0.2 hectares
Price Growth: 21.7 per cent year-over-year
This four-bedroom, two-bathroom home in Yarmouth, N.S., has a fully-fenced backyard, with a new deck and above-ground pool. The main floor has an open-concept living and dining area leading to a kitchen with a breakfast bar. In the basement is a laundry room with access to the backyard, as well as another room that can be used as an office or home gym.
GREATER MONCTON
(Emma Lee Arsenault Photography / Adele Poirier, Keller Williams Capital Realty)
Type: House
Price: $349,900
Year Built: 2007
Property Size: 212.38 sq. m
Lot Size: 322 sq. m
Price Growth: 19.6 per cent year-over-year
Spanning nearly 213 square metres, this two-storey home has three bedrooms and three bathrooms. Hardwood and tile floors run throughout the main level, and the living room includes a propane fireplace. From the dining area, two sliding patio doors lead to a four-season sunroom that can be used year-round. The basement is also completely finished and has a separate side entrance.
ALBERTA WEST
(KLIK Solutions / Lori Gelmici-Hanni, Royal LePage Edson Real Estate)
Type: House
Price: $629,500
Year Built: 2013
Property Size: 147.44 sq. m
Lot Size: 1.59 hectares
Price Growth: 17.7 per cent year-over-year
Laminate flooring and modern finishes run throughout this rural home near Edson, Alta. Designer lighting on the main floor decorates the high ceilings, while the kitchen features granite countertops and an oversized island. Filling the rest of the home are four bedrooms and three bathrooms. A family room occupies the basement, along with a newly renovated bathroom complete with a tiled shower.
VICTORIA
(Spartan Media / Anna Piloyan, Re/Max Camosun Oak Bay)
Type: House
Price: $799,999
Year Built: 1920
Property Size: 89.74 sq. m
Lot Size: 408.77 sq. m
Price Growth: 15 per cent year-over-year
Built in the 1920s, this character home features high ceilings and large windows. The one-storey home also comes with a small, detached garage that can be transformed into a workshop. Perched on a large rock, the house overlooks the Oaklands neighbourhood in Victoria, B.C., and is situated within walking distance of parks, schools and restaurants.
PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND
(Taralynn Arsenault, Palmer Real Estate Group, Keller Williams Select Realty)
Type: House
Price: $399,999
Year Built: 2002
Property Size: 272.39 sq. m
Lot Size: 0.26 hectares
Price Growth: 14.5 per cent year-over-year
This four-bedroom, four-bathroom rural home is located between Charlottetown and Summerside, P.E.I. The secluded lot features patios at the front and back of the house, as well as a gazebo in the backyard. On the main floor is a kitchen, formal dining room, living room and office. The main bedroom on the top floor has an ensuite with a double sink, full shower and separate jet tub.
SAGUENAY
(Saïda Murray, Proprio Direct)
Type: House
Price: $365,000
Year Built: 1974
Property Size: 178.37 sq. m
Lot Size: 0.2 hectares
Price Growth: 13.9 per cent year-over-year
Situated in a quiet neighbourhood in Saguenay, Que., is this four-bedroom, one-bathroom home. The large lot backs onto a forest, and there are no neighbours behind the home. The two-storey house also has a finished basement, and is located near essential amenities as well as the Chicoutimi River.
CALGARY
(Dianne Brown, Re/Max Landan Real Estate)
Type: House
Price: $685,000
Year Built: 1912
Property Size: 79.8 sq. m
Lot Size: 226 sq. m
Price Growth: 11.5 per cent year-over-year
On the main floor of this Calgary home are 10-foot ceilings and a large bay window. The corner lot has one bedroom plus a den, as well as one bathroom. The kitchen features white cabinetry, an exposed brick wall and stainless steel appliances, while the living area has a gas fireplace with a mantle. Oak floors installed when the home was first built in 1912 run across both storeys of the home.
WINDSOR-ESSEX
(Windsor Creative Real Estate Photography / Rick Lescanec, Deerbrook Plus Realty)
Type: House
Price: $699,900
Year Built: 1900
Property Size: 213.68 sq. m
Lot Size: 450 sq. m
Price Growth: 10.8 per cent year-over-year
While it may be more than 100 years old, this Windsor, Ont., home has been restored throughout the years. A brick porch sits at the entrance of the five-bedroom home, which also features custom stonework in the bathrooms. The sunroom leads to a backyard with a deck and gazebo. There is also an open-concept loft with a skylight.
SOUTHEAST SASKATCHEWAN
(Gale Tytlandsvik / Linda Mack, Re/Max Blue Chip Realty)
Type: House
Price: $364,900
Year Built: 1985
Property Size: 119.10 sq. m
Lot Size: 767.29 sq. m
Price Growth: 9 per cent year-over-year
This four-bedroom, three-bathroom bungalow in Estevan, Sask., has had various upgrades since it was built in 1985. In addition to living, dining and kitchen areas on the main floor, the basement features a sizeable family room with built-in cabinetry and a gas fireplace. Also in the basement is a den, storage room and hot tub. The fully fenced backyard includes a deck, garden and two sheds.
This 212-square-metre home in St. John’s, N.L., comes with a large updated kitchen, complete with in-floor heating and ceramic tile. Making up the rest of the home is a large living and dining area, as well as four bedrooms and two bathrooms. In the basement is a laundry room and family room. The detached home is situated within walking distance of a hospital and grocery stores.
INTERIOR BRITISH COLUMBIA
(PrimeLight Media / Shannon Stone, Re/Max Kelowna Stone Sisters)
Type: House
Price: $799,900
Year Built: 1940
Property Size: 129.88 sq. m
Lot Size: under 0.4 hectares
Price Growth: 6.1 per cent year-over-year
Located in Kelowna, B.C., this 130-square-metre house is surrounded by greenery. The large backyard serves as the ideal outdoor living space, complete with a concrete patio and flower garden. Inside are two bathrooms, updated to include heated flooring, as well as two bedrooms. The home also has an open-concept living and dining area that connects to the kitchen.
MONTREAL
(Stephanie Rizzuto, The Agency Montreal)
Type: Apartment
Price: $499,000
Year Built: 2015
Property Size: 68 sq. m
Lot Size: N/A
Price Growth: 5.7 per cent year-over-year
Located in Montreal’s Griffintown neighbourhood is this two-bedroom, one-bathroom corner apartment. Nine-foot floor-to-ceiling windows are found throughout the unit, which features an open-concept floor plan and private balcony. In the condominium are amenities such as a picnic area, heated outdoor pool and rooftop terrace with 360-degree views of downtown Montreal.
TORONTO
(John Wilken Open House Media / Sean Miller, Property.ca)
Type: Apartment
Price: $999,000
Year Built: 2022
Property Size: 107.77 sq. m
Lot Size: N/A
Price Growth: 4.3 per cent year-over-year
Polished concrete ceilings in this apartment unit serve as a stark contrast to its modern design. Along with three bedrooms and two bathrooms, this corner unit in Toronto’s Leslieville neighbourhood also has a walk-in closet and a 100-square-foot balcony offering north-facing views of the city. Floor-to-ceiling windows also allow plenty of natural light to seep in.
WINNIPEG
(Nicole Landry-Milner, Re/Max Performance Realty)
Type: House
Price: $389,900
Year Built: 1909
Property Size: 160.91 sq. m
Lot Size: 306.58 sq. m
Price Growth: 2.2 per cent year-over-year
This home in Winnipeg’s Wolseley neighbourhood spans two-and-a-half storeys. Near the entrance is a living room with a fireplace mantel, which leads to dining and kitchen areas. Also on the main floor is a newly renovated bathroom with a walk-in shower. On the upper floor is a laundry facility, two bedrooms and a four-piece bathroom. Meanwhile, the partially finished basement includes a recreation room, bathroom and bedroom.
MONTREAL – Two Quebec real estate brokers are facing fines and years-long suspensions for submitting bogus offers on homes to drive up prices during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Christine Girouard has been suspended for 14 years and her business partner, Jonathan Dauphinais-Fortin, has been suspended for nine years after Quebec’s authority of real estate brokerage found they used fake bids to get buyers to raise their offers.
Girouard is a well-known broker who previously starred on a Quebec reality show that follows top real estate agents in the province.
She is facing a fine of $50,000, while Dauphinais-Fortin has been fined $10,000.
The two brokers were suspended in May 2023 after La Presse published an article about their practices.
One buyer ended up paying $40,000 more than his initial offer in 2022 after Girouard and Dauphinais-Fortin concocted a second bid on the house he wanted to buy.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 11, 2024.
MONTREAL – The Quebec Professional Association of Real Estate Brokers says Montreal-area home sales rose 9.3 per cent in August compared with the same month last year, with levels slightly higher than the historical average for this time of year.
The association says home sales in the region totalled 2,991 for the month, up from 2,737 in August 2023.
The median price for all housing types was up year-over-year, led by a six per cent increase for the price of a plex at $763,000 last month.
The median price for a single-family home rose 5.2 per cent to $590,000 and the median price for a condominium rose 4.4 per cent to $407,100.
QPAREB market analysis director Charles Brant says the strength of the Montreal resale market contrasts with declines in many other Canadian cities struggling with higher levels of household debt, lower savings and diminishing purchasing power.
Active listings for August jumped 18 per cent compared with a year earlier to 17,200, while new listings rose 1.7 per cent to 4,840.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 6, 2024.
In the quest to find cities where renters can enjoy the best of all worlds, a recent study analyzed 24 metrics across three key categories—Housing & Economy, Quality of Life, and Community. The study ranked the 100 largest cities in Canada to determine which ones offer the most to their renters.
Here are the top 10 cities that emerged as the best for renters in 2024:
St. John’s, NL
St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, stand out as the top city for renters in Canada for 2024. Known for its vibrant cultural scene, stunning natural beauty, and welcoming community, St. John’s offers an exceptional quality of life. The city boasts affordable housing, a robust economy, and low unemployment rates, making it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced and enriching living experience. Its rich history, picturesque harbour, and dynamic arts scene further enhance its appeal, ensuring that renters can enjoy both comfort and excitement in this charming coastal city.
Sherbrooke, QC
Sherbrooke, Quebec, emerges as a leading city for renters in Canada for 2024, offering a blend of affordability and quality of life. Nestled in the heart of the Eastern Townships, Sherbrooke is known for its picturesque landscapes, vibrant cultural scene, and strong community spirit. The city provides affordable rental options, low living costs, and a thriving local economy, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both comfort and economic stability. With its rich history, numerous parks, and dynamic arts and education sectors, Sherbrooke presents an inviting environment for renters looking for a well-rounded lifestyle.
Québec City, QC
Québec City, the capital of Quebec, stands out as a premier destination for renters in Canada for 2024. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural heritage, this city offers an exceptional quality of life. Renters benefit from affordable housing, excellent public services, and a robust economy. The city’s charming streets, historic sites, and diverse culinary scene provide a unique living experience. With top-notch education institutions, numerous parks, and a strong sense of community, Québec City is an ideal choice for those seeking a dynamic and fulfilling lifestyle.
Trois-Rivières, QC
Trois-Rivières, nestled between Montreal and Quebec City, emerges as a top choice for renters in Canada. This historic city, known for its picturesque riverside views and rich cultural scene, offers an appealing blend of affordability and quality of life. Renters in Trois-Rivières enjoy reasonable housing costs, a low unemployment rate, and a vibrant community atmosphere. The city’s well-preserved historic sites, bustling arts community, and excellent educational institutions make it an attractive destination for those seeking a balanced and enriching lifestyle.
Saguenay, QC
Saguenay, located in the stunning Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region of Quebec, is a prime destination for renters seeking affordable living amidst breathtaking natural beauty. Known for its picturesque fjords and vibrant cultural scene, Saguenay offers residents a high quality of life with lower housing costs compared to major urban centers. The city boasts a strong sense of community, excellent recreational opportunities, and a growing economy. For those looking to combine affordability with a rich cultural and natural environment, Saguenay stands out as an ideal choice.
Granby, QC
Granby, nestled in the heart of Quebec’s Eastern Townships, offers renters a delightful blend of small-town charm and ample opportunities. Known for its beautiful parks, vibrant cultural scene, and family-friendly environment, Granby provides an exceptional quality of life. The city’s affordable housing market and strong sense of community make it an attractive option for those seeking a peaceful yet dynamic place to live. With its renowned zoo, bustling downtown, and numerous outdoor activities, Granby is a hidden gem that caters to a diverse range of lifestyles.
Fredericton, NB
Fredericton, the capital city of New Brunswick, offers renters a harmonious blend of historical charm and modern amenities. Known for its vibrant arts scene, beautiful riverfront, and welcoming community, Fredericton provides an excellent quality of life. The city boasts affordable housing options, scenic parks, and a strong educational presence with institutions like the University of New Brunswick. Its rich cultural heritage, coupled with a thriving local economy, makes Fredericton an attractive destination for those seeking a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.
Saint John, NB
Saint John, New Brunswick’s largest city, is a coastal gem known for its stunning waterfront and rich heritage. Nestled on the Bay of Fundy, it offers renters an affordable cost of living with a unique blend of historic architecture and modern conveniences. The city’s vibrant uptown area is bustling with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, while its scenic parks and outdoor spaces provide ample opportunities for recreation. Saint John’s strong sense of community and economic growth make it an inviting place for those looking to enjoy both urban and natural beauty.
Saint-Hyacinthe, QC
Saint-Hyacinthe, located in the Montérégie region of Quebec, is a vibrant city known for its strong agricultural roots and innovative spirit. Often referred to as the “Agricultural Technopolis,” it is home to numerous research centers and educational institutions. Renters in Saint-Hyacinthe benefit from a high quality of life with access to excellent local amenities, including parks, cultural events, and a thriving local food scene. The city’s affordable housing and close-knit community atmosphere make it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced and enriching lifestyle.
Lévis, QC
Lévis, located on the southern shore of the St. Lawrence River across from Quebec City, offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern conveniences. Known for its picturesque views and well-preserved heritage sites, Lévis is a city where history meets contemporary living. Residents enjoy a high quality of life with excellent public services, green spaces, and cultural activities. The city’s affordable housing options and strong sense of community make it a desirable place for renters looking for both tranquility and easy access to urban amenities.
This category looked at factors such as average rent, housing costs, rental availability, and unemployment rates. Québec stood out with 10 cities ranking at the top, demonstrating strong economic stability and affordable housing options, which are critical for renters looking for cost-effective living conditions.
Québec again led the pack in this category, with five cities in the top 10. Ontario followed closely with three cities. British Columbia excelled in walkability, with four cities achieving the highest walk scores, while Caledon topped the list for its extensive green spaces. These factors contribute significantly to the overall quality of life, making these cities attractive for renters.
Victoria, BC, emerged as the leader in this category due to its rich array of restaurants, museums, and educational institutions, offering a vibrant community life. St. John’s, NL, and Vancouver, BC, also ranked highly. Québec City, QC, and Lévis, QC, scored the highest in life satisfaction, reflecting a strong sense of community and well-being. Additionally, Saskatoon, SK, and Oshawa, ON, were noted for having residents with lower stress levels.
For a comprehensive view of the rankings and detailed interactive visuals, you can visit the full study by Point2Homes.
While no city can provide a perfect living experience for every renter, the cities highlighted in this study come remarkably close by excelling in key areas such as housing affordability, quality of life, and community engagement. These findings offer valuable insights for renters seeking the best places to live in Canada in 2024.
(Louisette Higgins, Modern Realty)
(Emma Lee Arsenault Photography / Adele Poirier, Keller Williams Capital Realty)
(KLIK Solutions / Lori Gelmici-Hanni, Royal LePage Edson Real Estate)
(Spartan Media / Anna Piloyan, Re/Max Camosun Oak Bay)
(Taralynn Arsenault, Palmer Real Estate Group, Keller Williams Select Realty)
(Saïda Murray, Proprio Direct)
(Dianne Brown, Re/Max Landan Real Estate)
(Windsor Creative Real Estate Photography / Rick Lescanec, Deerbrook Plus Realty)
(Gale Tytlandsvik / Linda Mack, Re/Max Blue Chip Realty)
(Matt Grandy Photography / Jackie Kavanagh, YYT Realty Group- Kavanagh Burke, Royal Lepage Vision Realty)
(PrimeLight Media / Shannon Stone, Re/Max Kelowna Stone Sisters)
(Stephanie Rizzuto, The Agency Montreal)
(John Wilken Open House Media / Sean Miller, Property.ca)
(Nicole Landry-Milner, Re/Max Performance Realty)
