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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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A Chilly Tradition: Canadians Dive Into 2026 With Frosty Enthusiasm

Many mark the new year with 'exhilarating' polar dip in icy water.

Across Canada, thousands welcomed the first day of 2026 not with fireworks or late‑night parties, but with a shock of icy water. From British Columbia’s rugged coastline to the frozen lakes of the Prairies and the Atlantic shores, communities gathered for their annual New Year’s polar plunges—an event many describe as equal parts invigorating and unforgettable.

Participants of all ages braved sub‑zero temperatures, some dressed in costumes, others in simple swimsuits, all united by a shared sense of adventure. For many, the plunge is more than a dare; it’s a symbolic reset, a way to start the year with courage, clarity, and a burst of adrenaline.

Organizers across the country reported strong turnouts, with several events raising funds for local charities. Despite the biting cold, spirits remained high as crowds cheered on friends, family, and first‑timers taking the leap.

As one participant put it, “There’s no better way to wake up to a new year than jumping into freezing water. It shocks your system—in the best possible way.”


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