Recent research from the central bank highlights an important point for those navigating the Ontario housing market: lowering interest rates can actually make homes less affordable, at least in the short term. When rates drop, we often see a quick surge in resale activity—typically within 18 to 24 months—while new construction takes longer to ramp up, sometimes about two years. This means demand heats up before the supply can catch up, making competition for available homes even tougher. Strong job markets and easier lending can make buyers feel more confident, adding to this demand. Builders, meanwhile, face delays due to permits and planning, especially with larger developments. So while rate cuts can eventually boost housing supply, they tend to push prices up first. As someone who helps buyers and sellers navigate these shifts every day, I know that achieving true affordability is about more than just mortgage rates—it's about timing, preparation, and understanding the bigger picture.
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