Real eState

Paulson: Residential, retail and industrial real estate listings scarce in Saskatoon – Saskatoon Star-Phoenix

Published

2 years ago

May 4, 2022

Saskatoon has the lowest number of active listings in at least five years, and by a significant margin.

Joanne Paulson is a Saskatoon author and freelance journalist who has been covering real estate, off and on, for more than 25 years. Submitted photo

In the spring, said Alfred, Lord Tennyson, a young man’s fancy lightly turns to thoughts of love.

That’s as may be, and forgive the poetic intrusion; but in the spring, a Saskatonian’s fancy turns to thoughts of selling and buying property.

Historically, anyway.

By May, the city’s residential real estate market is usually steaming. Most sales — and listings, of course — come in May and June. We stream out of our hovels after nasty winters and enter the housing fray.

Being a curious sort, I checked this morning to see just how hot things were. Here’s an indication.

In my (admittedly fairly small and fairly old) neighbourhood, there is one house for sale.

One.

Now this happened previously, about a year ago when the COVID housing madness was in full cry. What’s the market’s excuse now? What are people thinking? Where are the listings!?

It’s not just my neighbourhood flagging, as it turned out upon further investigation. Indeed, says Norm Fisher, owner-broker of Royal LePage Vidorra, the number of listed homes has dropped in all but one week so far this year as of the end of April.

At that moment in time, there were 1,033 homes for sale (single-family and condos), 336 fewer than the same time last year. Single-family home listings fell to 537 from 652, and condos kind of plummeted to 423 from 642.

Peering at Fisher’s active listings chart, I saw that we have the lowest number of active listings in at least five years, and by a significant margin. In 2018, for example, there were about 1,800 homes on the market.

Unsurprisingly, sales are also down, having fallen year-over-year in 14 of 17 sales weeks. In the last week of April, for example, 106 homes changed hands, down by 24 annually.

I have some theories about this. Let’s start with an abnormally long and cold winter, which really just ended about 10 days ago. I was so shocked when the temperature got above five degrees, it took me another week to book a snow tire removal appointment. Call it brain freeze. Seriously, six months of hard winter will take the wind even out of a Saskatonian’s sails. Or should I say sales.

One could also argue that after about 18 months of a crazy COVID market, in which everyone sought bigger homes with office spaces, some demand has been satisfied. Meanwhile, inflation is hitting a lot of people hard. Maybe staying put seems more attractive than taking on a larger mortgage — with a higher interest rate, and that’s another thing.

Still, interest rates have not yet soared, COVID has not yet gone away, and the economy is really starting to fire. Is there something else at play? Do we have a large number of less-desirable properties languishing since last year? If there were more strong listings, would we see higher sales? I actually think so.

The most important factor, however, in any housing market, ever, is the economy. And other real estate numbers do point to a rising economy, although others less so.

Industrial land, for example, can hardly be had for love or money.

In mid-April, ICR International, the commercial real estate firm, pegged the industrial vacancy rate at 2.4 per cent, with the Marquis Industrial area at a mere one per cent. Industry observers say interest in such property is very high for both rental and purchase, and the rate will likely fall further this year.

This is, in part, because of a manufacturing boom, I’m told. Sales of manufactured goods in 2021 were up 24 per cent from pre-COVID levels, which is a heartening sign. In fact, that’s pretty spectacular.

Furthermore, and this is quite astonishing, retail space is renting quite well, with a slight drop in vacancies to 4.55 per cent in first quarter 2022 from 4.93 last year. Considering we all got used to ordering everything during COVID, you’d think it would go the other way, but nope.

Meanwhile, the downtown office vacancy rate is insanely high, somewhere between 21 and 25 per cent depending on which survey you read. This is, admittedly, partly because of the new towers at River Landing adding a huge amount of space and attracting tenants from older buildings. But it’s still too high, and the reasons for it would fill at least two entire columns, so I will leave it there for now.

That’s one cylinder not firing, but there are generally strong economic indicators. Considering rising interest rates and no residential selection, will the economy become a lagging force in the housing market?

I find myself wondering if the usual spring love of property will this year become a fall passion.

Joanne Paulson is a Saskatoon author and freelance journalist who has been covering real estate, off and on, for more than 25 years. Do you have a fascinating real estate story to share? Get in touch at jcpwriter@sasktel.net.

The news seems to be flying at us faster all the time. From COVID-19 updates to politics and crime and everything in between, it can be hard to keep up. With that in mind, the Saskatoon StarPhoenix has created an Afternoon Headlines newsletter that can be delivered daily to your inbox to help make sure you are up to date with the most vital news of the day. Click here to subscribe.

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Two Quebec real estate brokers suspended for using fake bids to drive up prices

Published

3 days ago

September 11, 2024

Anne Joseph

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.

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Montreal home sales, prices rise in August: real estate board

Published

1 week ago

September 6, 2024

Anne Joseph

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.

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Canada’s Best Cities for Renters in 2024: A Comprehensive Analysis

Published

2 months ago

July 24, 2024

Harry Miller

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.