Skip to main content

Featured

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...

article

Gas Prices in Ontario Surge to Highest Level Since August 2022

 

As the days grow warmer and people hit the roads for summer adventures, there’s one thing that’s not so hot: gas prices. Across Ontario, the price per litre of gasoline is expected to rise to approximately $1.79 this week, marking the highest gas price since August 2022. Here’s what’s fueling this surge:

  1. Carbon Tax Increase: The recent carbon tax hike is contributing to the rise in gas prices. As governments aim to reduce emissions, consumers are paying more at the pump.

  2. Geopolitical Tensions: Unrest in the Middle East has a ripple effect on oil prices. When tensions rise, so do the costs of crude oil, which directly impacts gas prices.

  3. Seasonal Fuel Blend Change: Semi-annually, the switch-over from winter to summer gasoline occurs. Summer blends are costlier due to chemical differences. While winter blends use butane for better ignition in cold weather, summer blends incorporate expensive alkylates to minimize environmental damage.

Energy analyst Dan McTeague predicts that gas prices will continue to climb throughout the summer, with the May 24 weekend marking the kickoff of high demand. Severe weather events and geopolitical factors also play a role in oil prices. However, McTeague suggests that consumers in the Greater Toronto Area explore nearby locations for slightly cheaper gas, as some stations have more competitive prices.

So, as you fill up your tank this summer, keep an eye on the rising numbers at the pump. And remember, while gas prices may be out of our control, our choices can still make a difference. 


Comments