For housing markets in Canada, 2018 has been a year of restraint. But looking ahead to 2019, there are a number of potential outcomes to consider. The mortgage stress test was perhaps the most influential policy change that affected homebuyers in 2018. Under the new rules, which came into effect in January 2018, most homebuyers were required to qualify for a mortgage at a higher rate than the contracted mortgage rate. This was done to determine the borrower's ability to service the... [read more]

Earlier this month, one of Canada's foremost authorities on housing released its market outlook for 2020-2021. Home sales and prices are expected to regain upward momentum after a couple of challenging years while home building activity will at least see some stability, but not a comparable lift, according to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). Along with the outlook, the CMHC released three encouraging-looking graphs that plot the course of sales, prices and homebuilding... [read more]

A ballroom, forested grounds and quick access to the golf course are a few of the features being touted by the listing agents tasked with selling some of the most expensive homes currently listed in the Greater Toronto Area. 1. 1150 Lakeshore Road East, Oakville Asking price: CAD $59,000,000 The home: Downtown Abbey is quaking at the sight of this 43,850 SF English country-style mansion on Lake Ontario. The 10 acres of lawn and gardens to frolic in makes Chelster Hall the perfect... [read more]

Just in time for it's 30th birthday, the InterContinental Yorkville has completed a $12-million renovation of their 212 rooms. The most glamorous of all is the 2,400 square-foot Royal Suite, which boasts an opulent marble double shower and south-facing views over the ROM and the CN Tower. Here's a look around the sprawling suite, which goes for $2,500 a night. InterContinental chose the Atlanta design firm Sims Patrick Studio to oversee the makeover. The firm took... [read more]

Address: 19 Evergreen Gardens Neighbourhood: Leaside Price: $4,299,000 Previously sold for: $1,050,000 (prior to a rebuild) The Place A modern home with touches of rustic and industrial design - plus skyline views from a rooftop garden. The History The home is just three years old. It was designed by, and custom built for, the current homeowner, an interior designer. The foyer has some wall art made of preserved moss: The dining area has a giant... [read more]