With the election now behind us, and regardless of how you voted, one thing’s for sure — it’s behind us - for now. It’s time to look ahead and make sense of what this new political chapter could mean for the Canadian real estate market.

Mark Carney has stepped into the role of Prime Minister, leading a Liberal minority government. While Carney brings a fresh face and financial credentials to the table, it's important to remember that this is still a Liberal government — the same party that’s been steering the country for the past nine years. This can be seen as good, or bad, depending on who you talk with. 

That said, Carney’s leadership promises a more focused and, perhaps, more pragmatic approach to housing. His platform during the campaign put real estate and affordability issues front and centre, with some bold initiatives aimed at increasing supply and helping first-time buyers.

What’s on the Table?

At the top of the list is a proposed removal of GST on new homes under $1 million for first-time buyers — a move meant to lower the barrier to entry for those struggling to break into the market. The Liberals have also committed to doubling the pace of home construction, with a goal of building nearly 500,000 new units a year, and the creation of a new crown corporation, Build Canada Homes, to directly support affordable housing development.

These are ambitious promises, and on paper, they sound like steps in the right direction. More supply could ease pressure on prices, and incentives for first-time buyers are long overdue in many markets.

But let’s play devil’s advocate for a moment.

Big promises have been made before. We've heard talk of affordable housing, accelerated builds, and homebuyer support for years — often with limited follow-through. While Carney might bring new leadership style and financial discipline, the system he's working within hasn’t changed overnight. We’re still facing the same housing challenges in a country where most of the zoning and construction approvals happen at the municipal level.

Looking Ahead — Again

Given the minority government status, it’s also fair to expect more political turbulence in the near future. Once the NDP, and likely the Conservatives too, sort out their leadership and internal restructuring, there’s a strong chance we’ll be back at the polls, my guess, in about two years.

In the meantime, what does this mean for you as a homeowner, buyer, or investor?

For now, nothing changes overnight. Markets may remain cautious until policies turn into action. But if the new government follows through on its commitments, we could see meaningful steps toward addressing supply shortages and housing affordability. I expect we will start hearing announcements on policies shortly, and the waiver of GST on homes under $1,000,000 will likely be a quick and easy first step.  Whether these policies translate into actual affordability or just slightly less competition remains to be seen.

Final Thoughts

The Canadian real estate market is a long game. Governments come and go, policies shift, and yet people still need places to live. The best strategy? Stay informed, and understand that while politics influence the market, they don’t define it entirely.

We’ll be keeping a close eye on how this unfolds — and as always, we’re here to help you navigate whatever comes next.

Spring is finally here, and you know what that means… it’s almost pool season! ☀️ Before you dive in (literally), it’s important to open your pool the right way. Whether you’re planning pool parties or just looking forward to some lazy weekends floating around, here’s your step-by-step guide to getting your pool ready without the stress.

Say Goodbye to the Pool Cover 

Start by removing your pool cover, but don’t just toss it aside like that winter jacket you’re tired of. Clean it off, let it dry, and store it somewhere safe. A little effort now means an easier opening next year!

 Check Your Pool Equipment 

Before you hit any "on" buttons, double-check your pump, filter, and heater. Look for any signs of damage or leaks. Trust us, it’s better to fix small problems now than deal with a swamp later.

 Give Your Pool a Good Clean 

Even if it looks kinda clear, your pool probably needs a solid clean. Skim out leaves and debris, brush down the walls, and vacuum the bottom.

 Fill 'Er Up 

If the water level dropped over the winter, top it up before running your equipment. You can’t have cannonballs without enough water, right?

 Test and Balance Your Water 

This part’s not just for the chemists out there. Testing your pool water and adjusting the pH, alkalinity, and chlorine levels keeps everything safe and makes sure you’re not swimming in a giant science experiment.

 Shock It Like You Mean It

Give your pool a good shock treatment to kill off any lingering winter germs. It's basically a pool’s version of a really strong coffee to wake it up for the season.

 Safety First!

Before you grab the floaties, check that all fences, gates, and ladders are secure. A few quick safety checks now can save a whole lot of headaches later.

 Ready, Set, Swim!

Opening your pool might seem like a lot, but taking the time to do it right means more splashing and less stressing all summer long. If you’re thinking of buying a home with a pool (or maybe upgrading your backyard oasis), reach out to our team, we’d love to help you make a splash this year! 🌊🏡.

Many of our clients ask why we choose to be part of REMAX Twin City Realty Inc. instead of operating as our own brokerage. The answer is simple: being part of a large, well-established brokerage allows us to focus on what truly matters—delivering the best possible service to our clients.

By working within REMAX Twin City, we gain access to a powerful network of top-performing agents, increasing exposure for our listings and giving our buyers an edge in competitive markets. The brokerage also provides industry-leading training, cutting-edge technology, and marketing resources that help us stay ahead of trends and serve our clients at the highest level. Plus, having a dedicated administrative and compliance team ensures our transactions run smoothly, allowing us to focus on negotiating, marketing, and making the buying or selling process as stress-free as possible.

At the end of the day, being part of a globally recognized brand with a strong local presence gives our clients more confidence, more connections, and more results—without compromising the personal, hands-on service that makes our small team unique.

Spring is finally here, which means open house season is officially on. The weather’s warmer, everything looks better with a little sunshine, and more buyers are out and about looking for their dream home. If you're thinking about selling, hosting an open house can really help your place stand out, but only if it’s done right. Here are some easy ways to make your open house a total hit:

1. Make That Curb Appeal Pop

Before anyone steps inside, they’re already judging the outside, so make it count. Sweep the porch, trim the bushes, and maybe throw out a cute planter or two. A tidy lawn and clean walkway can go a long way.

2. Keep It Clean (and Chill on the Personal Stuff)

Buyers need to picture their lives in the space, not yours. So clean up any clutter, hide family photos, and keep things super simple. Think cozy and inviting, not messy or crowded.

3. Let There Be Light

Bright homes feel way more open and welcoming. Pull back the curtains, turn on the lights, and let that natural light do its thing. It makes every room look better, trust me.

4. Set the Mood

A little background music, a subtle candle, and maybe some fresh flowers can totally elevate the experience. You want people to walk in and feel like they could live there. Keep the scents light and the music lowkey.

Your open house is your home’s moment to shine. A little extra effort can seriously help buyers remember it in a good way. And hey, if you’re not sure how to pull it all together, I’ve got you. Reach out and we’ll walk you through it step-by-step.