According to Royal LePage’s 2026 second quarter housing report, the Canadian housing market began to regain momentum in May after a slow start to the year and, in several regions, that activity is now carrying into the summer.
The report suggests buyers have not disappeared. Many have simply been taking their time. With more inventory available in some markets, they can compare options and wait for the right property. Ongoing economic uncertainty is also influencing when and how people make a move.
A few trends I am watching are buyer confidence, inventory levels, and the impact of inflation on interest rates. While inflation increased in May, the Bank of Canada has held its key lending rate at 2.25 per cent since October 2025. Even if rates move modestly higher, today’s buyers appear to be responding strategically rather than reacting quickly.
For sellers, this means pricing and presentation remain especially important. Buyers are active, but they are selective. For buyers, there may be more time to assess value and negotiate.
I will continue to follow the regional data and share the information that matters most to our local markets.
