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Is Now a Good Time to Rent vs. Buy in Canada?

After years of brutal rent hikes that left many Canadians feeling priced out of their own cities, something has quietly shifted: rents are finally falling. But does that mean you should lock in a lease and wait out the housing market — or is this actually the window you've been waiting for to buy? The answer, as always, depends on your city, your finances, and your plans. Here's a clear-eyed breakdown of where things stand in 2026. What's Happening With Rents Right Now The Canadian rental market has undergone a dramatic reversal. After vacancy rates hit record lows in 2023 and rents surged by as much as 8% nationally in a single year, the tide has turned. According to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), the national vacancy rate for purpose-built rental apartments rose to 3.1% in October 2025 — up from 2.2% in 2024 and a record low of just 1.5% in 2023. That 3.1% figure now sits above the 10-year historical average , marking a meaningful shift in the bal...

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End of an Era: Hudson's Bay Announces Immediate Liquidation


Hudson's Bay, Canada's oldest company, has announced plans for an immediate liquidation of its entire business. The decision comes after exhaustive efforts to secure financing and avoid a full shutdown proved unsuccessful. The liquidation process is set to begin next week and is expected to conclude by June.

The iconic department store chain, which dates back to 1670, has faced mounting financial challenges, including nearly $1 billion in debt. The closure will impact over 9,000 employees across Hudson's Bay stores, as well as its Saks Fifth Avenue and Saks Off 5th locations.

Despite the bleak outlook, Hudson's Bay remains hopeful that a last-minute solution with key stakeholders, particularly landlords, could prevent the complete shutdown. CEO Liz Rodbell expressed gratitude for the support from customers and associates, emphasizing the company's determination to explore every possible opportunity to save the brand.

This marks a significant moment in Canadian retail history, as the loss of Hudson's Bay would leave a notable gap in the market and in the hearts of many Canadians.


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