Canada’s affordability challenges have now stretched into a 10th consecutive quarter—a trend we’re watching closely here in Medicine Hat and the surrounding areas. With mortgage rate relief no longer expected to ease the pressure, economists are turning their focus to home prices and income growth as the biggest factors shaping what buyers and sellers experience next. Over the coming year, it looks like mortgage rates will likely hold steady or even edge up, so any improvement in affordability may depend on how home prices adjust.
We’re also seeing slower population growth, which could help temper demand and support more balanced prices, while a strengthening labour market is encouraging for household incomes. It’s important to remember that every market is different—what’s happening in larger centres like Vancouver and Toronto isn’t always what we see in Medicine Hat, Calgary, or Edmonton. As Girls on the Go, we pride ourselves on staying informed about market shifts that matter most to our local clients.
While a better labour market gives households a bit of a boost, economists warn that true affordability gains will be hard to come by unless there’s lasting moderation in home prices. That’s why we’re committed to bringing you up-to-date, local insights so you can make confident decisions—whether you’re buying, selling, or just exploring your options.
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