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WestJet Flight Attendants Are on Strike — Here's What You're Owed Right Now

  Published August 2, 2026 It's no longer a countdown. WestJet's 4,400 flight attendants walked off the job at 12:01 a.m. on Sunday after last-minute talks with the airline collapsed, grounding the majority of a carrier that normally runs about 600 flights a day. If you're one of the thousands of Canadians caught in it — or watching your Civic Holiday plans wobble from the sidelines — here's exactly what you're entitled to, and what you're not. The bottom line: WestJet mainline flights are suspended. WestJet Encore and codeshare partner flights are still operating. You're entitled to rebooking within 48 hours or a full refund — but not cash compensation, because a strike is treated as outside the airline's control. How we got here The Canadian Union of Public Employees Local 8125, which represents WestJet's cabin crew, issued a 72-hour strike notice on July 30. WestJet responded the same day with a 72-hour lockout notice, and both windows expired to...

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New home buyers in trouble as mortgage rates soar

Some buyers who purchased preconstruction homes are finding themselves unable to close on their properties due to rising mortgage rates and stricter lending rules. As a result, they are resorting to selling their contracts to other buyers at a discount, or even giving up their deposits and facing legal risks.

According to Robert McLister, an interest rate analyst and mortgage strategist, this trend is creating opportunities for bargain hunters who are looking for assignment deals. These are transactions where the original buyer transfers their rights and obligations to a new buyer before the home is completed.

However, assignment deals are not without challenges and costs. Both assignors and assignees need to get approval from the builder, pay fees and taxes, and secure financing. Moreover, they need to be aware of the market conditions and the potential risks of flipping or renting out the property.

McLister advises buyers to start evaluating their options early and seek professional help from a tax-savvy accountant, a mortgage broker, and a real estate lawyer. He also suggests that buyers should monitor the bond yields and the Bank of Canada’s rate decisions, as they may affect the future demand and prices of new homes.

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