In this week’s episode we break down the real estate trends shaping buyer behaviour, the growing caution in the Canadian housing market, and why so many people are holding out for better deals. We talk about the impact of recent employment data on mortgage rates, the sudden appeal of variable rates over fixed, and why 2026 is shaping up to be a pivotal year with a surge in renewals and activity. We also discuss how bank consolidations may reshape lending across Canada and how Royal LePage’s price predictions align with what we are seeing on the ground. Rising mortgage arrears and tighter broker regulations point to a major shift in the quality and stability of the market. Watch the full conversation to hear our thoughts and see how these trends may shape the next two years.00:00 Introduction to the Current Real Estate Market02:36 Market Trends and Predictions for 202605:43 Impact of Employment Data on Mortgage Rates08:38 Variable vs Fixed Mortgage Rates11:31 Bank Consolidations and Their Effects16:29 Royal LePage Predictions for Home Prices20:42 Mortgage Arrears and Financial Stress28:23 Mood BoostsGet in touch with us!Paul Stevenson - Mortgage Agent Level 2 CENTUM Financial Services LPEmail: [email protected]: 1-613-263-4543https://www.paulstevenson.caDavid Warren - Mortgage Agent Level 2 Referral MortgagesEmail: [email protected]: 1-613-686-6003 https://www.referralmortgages.comDon’t miss your chance to win a glowing 20” x 10” neon sign, sign up today!https://forms.gle/GBbq9ZrhK2k8Avgv5If you have a question or topic you'd like to hear us discuss send us an email at: [email protected] or leave us a comment below!New Episodes of the podcast are available on Wednesdays at 10AM on all podcast services and at www.theottawarealestatepodcast.com Brought to you by Referral Mortgages, PaulStevenson.ca, Guertin/Poirier Avocates Lawyers, CENTUM, BIG - Billyard Insurance Group and Easy Neon Signs.https://www.easyneonsigns.ca Use code TOREP and get 20% off all your orders. (This is an affiliate link).