Newsletter

Noteworthy

Rents Just Can’t Catch a Break

Canada’s average asking rent fell again in January. Down 2% from last year to $2,057. That’s 16 straight months of declines

It’s the cheapest rents we’ve seen in almost 3 years. And they’re 6% lower than two years ago. Still way higher than pre-COVID though… 13% higher

Why it matters 💡
Affordability is finally improving. Rent now eats up just under 30% of income for the first time in 6 years. More supply is doing its job I guess

Condos down 5.7%
Houses and towns down 3.1%
Purpose-built rentals down 1%
3-bed units are the odd one out. Prices still rising

Big cities are the ones hurting 👀
Vancouver down 9.2%
Calgary down 5.7%
Toronto down 4.6%

Bottom line 🤙
Rent pressure is easin…That helps renters. And it matters for buyers watching the rent vs own scenarions

If you’re planning a move or purchase this year, timing just got more interesting.

For more information contact Alex at Flow Mortgages HERE

In Good Company

International Women’s Day

Since the fall, I’ve been volunteering once a month as a stylist with Dress for Success, a nonprofit that helps women prepare for job opportunities by providing professional clothing, career support, and mentorship. And honestly, it’s one of my favourite things I get to do.

During appointments I work one-on-one with women to style outfits for interviews, new jobs, and important moments in their careers. My shifts are the best. One client recently asked if we could take a photo together because she was so happy with the outfits she left with, and another was literally taking notes while I shared a few simple styling tips.

It just feels really good to help other women feel confident, and bring a little bubbly energy to the experience.

If you have items you’d like to donate, fill out the form below on my website and I’ll arrange a pick-up.

Right now they are especially short on:
• Accessories such as belts and purses
• Shoes

They always accept lightly worn or like-new office attire that’s in season, essentially pieces you’d feel good passing along to a friend. The team is selective with donations so everything given to clients is high quality and ready to wear.

Confidence looks good on everyone.Donation Details Here

In Good Company

The trades behind the transformation

Over the past few months, I added custom framing and wainscoting throughout the space, repainted the entire home, and updated electrical details to elevate the mood and lighting. The goal? Subtle European character, architectural depth, warm, layered neutrals that feel intentional.

The transformation wasn’t about square footage. It was about finishings.

And as always, the right trades make all the difference.

Base Rate: $5.50 per sq ft
Includes: walls, closet doors, ceilings, baseboards, nail hole patching, and caulking.
Pricing increases with added detail work or multiple paint colours.

Fernando and his team repainted my entire condo, clean lines, sharp edges, zero mess. A fresh paint job remains one of the highest ROI upgrades before listing.

Pricing: Approximately $2.50 per linear foot for picture-frame moulding / wainscoting similar to what was installed in my home.

The framing instantly added architectural depth and a more custom tailored feel throughout the space. He also custom framed out all of my closet and bedroom doors, a small detail that brought so much character.

Maxime also offers carpentry, painting, and tile work, a very good contact to have on file.

Base Rate: $60/hour

Lighting adjustments and small electrical upgrades make a major difference in how a home photographs and feels. Malcolm is efficient, honest, and detail-oriented, which is exactly what you want in an electrician.

Millennial Mortgage

Todays Rates

3 Year : 3.89% – 4.19%
5 Year : 4.14% – 4.49%
Variable : 3.70% – 3.85%

**Add .25% for those that are putting down 20%

Bank Rate Predictions for 2026

Half of Canada’s Big Six banks are forecasting interest rates could rise again by the end of 2026. RBC currently projects the Bank of Canada rate to reach 3.25% by the end of 2027.

While forecasts can change, it’s a reminder that today’s rate environment may not last forever.

Source: Canadian Mortgage Trends

Chart provided by Flow mortgage

Flow Mortgage Contact

Coming Soon…

Lower Lonsdale 2 bedroom 1 bathroom condo, this is the largest floor plan in the building, something really special that I am excited to bring to market this week!

Great investment holding property or turnkey move in ready.

Get in touch for more information.