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CMHC Just Cut Its Housing Forecast — What It Means If You're Buying, Selling, or Renewing

  Published July 28, 2026 Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation quietly downgraded its outlook for the rest of 2026 last week, and the new numbers are worth a look no matter which side of the housing market you're standing on. The federal housing agency's Summer 2026 update now calls for slower growth, softer home prices, fewer new builds and continued easing in rental markets right through the end of the year — with a split that leaves Ontario and B.C. looking a lot different from the Prairies and Quebec. Here's what's actually in the update, and what it means for your specific situation. What CMHC changed The agency's baseline call for 2026 is a Canadian economy growing at just 0.7%, with high borrowing costs, weak population growth and cautious buyers keeping a lid on demand even as affordability has technically improved. The practical result, nationally: Housing starts are expected to fall to about 241,400 units this year, down from 259,028 in 2025 Resale acti...

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5 Budget-Friendly Gift Ideas for the 2023 Holiday Season



 Here are some budget-friendly and thoughtful gifts for your loved ones without breaking the bank of this Holiday Season.

  1. Subscription boxes: Subscription boxes are a great way to give a gift that keeps on giving. You can choose from a variety of options such as beauty, food, books, and more. Some popular subscription boxes include Birchbox, Ipsy, and Book of the Month. Prices start at around $10 per month.

  2. DIY kits: DIY kits are another great option for budget-friendly gifts. You can choose from a variety of options such as knitting, painting, and baking. Some popular DIY kits include We Are Knitters, Paint by Numbers, and Bake Me A Wish. Prices start at around $20.

  3. Experiences: Experiences are a great way to give a gift that creates memories. You can choose from a variety of options such as cooking classes, wine tastings, and spa treatments. Some popular experience options include Groupon, LivingSocial, and SpaFinder. Prices vary depending on the experience.

  4. Charitable donations: Charitable donations are a great way to give back during the holiday season. You can choose from a variety of options such as animal welfare, environmental causes, and children’s charities. Some popular charitable organizations include World Wildlife Fund, Greenpeace, and Save the Children. Prices vary depending on the organization.

  5. Gift cards: Gift cards are a great option for those who are hard to shop for. You can choose from a variety of options such as restaurants, retailers, and online stores. Some popular gift card options include Amazon, Starbucks, and Walmart. Prices vary depending on the retailer.

I hope these ideas help you find the perfect gift for your loved ones this holiday season. Happy shopping! 

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