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GTA & Vancouver Home Sales Fell Again in August — What RBC's "Recovery" Call Actually Means for You

  September 6, 2026  •  Canadian Money Brief Fresh numbers out this week from the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB) and Greater Vancouver Realtors (GVR) confirm what a lot of GTA and Metro Vancouver households already feel in their bones: the country's two biggest, most expensive housing markets are still shrinking on paper, even as the Bank of Canada holds rates and the trade war eats into everyone's confidence. At the same time, RBC Economics dropped a report calling this a market that's "finally taking steps" toward recovery. Those two things sound contradictory. They're not — but the gap between them is exactly where you need to be paying attention, whether you're a first-time buyer, a seller sitting on a listing, or a landlord watching your renewal math. What It Means for You: Prices are still down year-over-year in both cities, but the underlying supply picture — fewer new listings, tighter inventory — is the thing actually shifting. That...

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How to Save Money on Kids’ Expenses Without Sacrificing Fun

Raising kids can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. There are many ways to cut costs on kids’ expenses without compromising their happiness or well-being. Here are some tips to help you save money and still have fun with your kids:

  • Simplify birthday parties: Instead of spending hundreds of dollars on venues, food and entertainment, host a party at home or a nearby park. Kids will enjoy playing games, eating cake and spending time with their friends. You can also ask guests to bring a dish or a gift to share.
  • Postpone the trips: Traveling with kids can be enriching, but also costly and stressful. Wait until your kids are old enough to appreciate and remember the experience. You can also explore local attractions, go camping or visit relatives instead of flying abroad.
  • Reduce the clutter. Kids don’t need a lot of toys and books to be happy. Having too many can overwhelm them and reduce their creativity. Choose quality over quantity and donate or sell the ones they don’t use. You can also borrow books from the library, swap with friends or buy secondhand.
  • Delay the activities: Enrolling your kids in various activities can be beneficial, but also expensive and time-consuming. Consider whether your kids are ready and interested in the activity before signing them up. You can also encourage them to play outdoors, do arts and crafts or learn new skills at home.
  • Dress them smartly: Kids grow fast and their tastes change quickly. Buying them fancy clothes can be a waste of money and closet space. Opt for comfortable, durable and versatile outfits that can be mixed and matched. You can also shop at thrift stores, swap with friends or make your own clothes.

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