Thurston Olsen Real Estate Group

Hey Friends!

Well, Summer happened quickly!

We hope that you took some time to enjoy the beautiful weather, time with family and friends, and maybe even a summer vacation!

The TO Group is recharged and ready to take on the Fall real estate market.

Let’s take a few minutes to give you another Real Estate update for August 2024.

BANK OF CANADA SLASHES THEIR RATES AGAIN

For those who hold variable rate debt, their shoulders are likely feeling a bit lighter as the Bank of Canada continues to drop its overnight rate. Can you hear the collective sighs?

On September 4th, the Bank of Canada dropped their overnight rate by another quarter point, their 3rd straight rate cut.

It is widely expected that they will make 2 more cuts before the end of the year and further cuts into 2025.

So, what does this mean?

The real estate industry views this as a positive sign going forward and many expect that this will inject some life into the more recent “slumping” market. We’ve already been receiving calls from buyers who had been waiting for their time to get into the market and we feel that this will be a sign of things to come!

While a 0.25% decrease in the overnight rate only results in a monthly savings of approximately $15 per $100,000 borrowed, the biggest immediate impact will be in consumer confidence. The light at the end of the tunnel is finally in view along with lighter debt commitments.

Have you been waiting for a sign? This could be it.

Reach out and let’s have a chat!

WHAT WE ARE SEEING FROM THE FIELD

With the first week of September in the books, we have already seen increased activity from buyers, more specifically in the freehold market. Some listings that had been hanging around during the summertime are starting to get scooped up.

The condo market remained slow moving with a resale inventory that approached 6000 units at the end of August. There are still some fantastic deals to be had out there. With increasing rent prices and a clearer picture of decreasing borrowing costs, now could be an excellent time to purchase a condo.

TRREB President Jennifer Pearce noted that the Bank of Canada’s recent rate cut on September 4 could boost affordability, particularly for first-time buyers using variable rate mortgages. As mortgage rates are expected to decrease, more first-time buyers may enter the market, especially in the condo sector.

Check out the August year-over-year stats below for more information on the current market. If you would like statistics specific to your neighbourhood, an updated Comparative Market Analysis for your home, or help deciphering what the numbers could mean for you, please let us know and we would be happy to provide that for you.

LEVEL UP YOUR LIVING!

The TO Group loves working with clients looking to upsize from their current home to their dream home.

Whether you’re looking for more space for your growing family, a better school district, or a bigger yard for your favourite furry friend, we can help you achieve your real estate goals!

We’ve put together a handy Upsizing Guide that will help you prepare for your next move.

Want a copy? Just click below and we’ll send you one.

LOOKING FORWARD

We are looking forward to our next East Side Food Drive – Thanksgiving Edition on October 10, 2024 and would really appreciate your support!

The demand for food in our city is urgent. One in ten people in Toronto are now relying on food banks, twice as many as the year prior. Let’s team up to make a difference!

Click below for more info on our East Side Food Drive and to sign up to contribute.

As always, we would be happy to help you and any of your friends, family, colleagues, or neighbours with real estate services or advice. If you can think of anyone that could use our help, feel free to make an introduction! We promise we’ll make you look good ;)