A lot of noise out there right now. So here's a quiet, clear look at what's actually going on in the real estate market.
A True Buyer's Market — But Few Are Acting
Right now, we're in one of the most buyer-friendly real estate markets in recent memory. The market isn't good or bad: it's either a seller's market or a buyer's market. And right now, it's the latter.
- Supply is at multi-decade highs
- Sellers are more flexible than they've been in years
- Buyers have negotiating power
- Conditions are back on offers
The same people who said "I'll buy when the market cools down" are now saying "I'm waiting until things feel better." But here's the paradox: if things felt better — rates lower, sentiment higher, job growth strong — it wouldn't be a buyer's market anymore.
We may not be at the absolute bottom. But we're likely close. And historically, when things feel uncertain is exactly when long-term buyers have the most leverage.
Next Bank of Canada Rate Decision: July 30
Here's what's in play: Canada's annual inflation edged up to 1.9% in June (from 1.7% in May). The job market is holding up — for now. A 0.25% rate cut is possible — but not guaranteed.
If another cut happens, expect some buyers to jump back in. More competition. Less negotiating power.
No predictions here — just perspective. If you're waiting for perfect clarity, you may miss the window when the market actually favours you.
Why Are Landlords So Strict Right Now?
Because the system meant to protect them is broken. The LTB (Landlord and Tenant Board) is where landlords and tenants go when something goes wrong. But right now it's so backlogged, some cases take over a year just to be heard.
If you're a landlord and someone stops paying rent, you might wait up to a year. If you're a tenant and your heat's broken? You wait too.
So what happens? Landlords protect themselves — by asking for tons of documents, massive deposits, and saying no to anything that feels risky. It's not personal. It's the result of a system where enforcement has collapsed.
Off-Market Deals: London, ON
I currently have access to a few turnkey rental properties that are actually cash-flow positive — and they're not listed on MLS. Purpose-built student rentals near Western University, fully tenanted with property management in place.
- Purchase price ~$1M for 5–6 bedrooms
- Lease guarantees, warranties, and 3.49% financing available (lower than market rate, OAC)
- Net cash flow: ~$1,800–$2,100/month depending on property
Compare that to Toronto — where you'll likely be cash-flow negative and paying more to get in. Reach out if you want the inventory list or to set up a walkthrough.