Today, April 29, 2026, the Bank of Canada has announced that it is holding its rate again for the fourth time at 2.25%, keeping the rate that it had first established on October 29, 2025.
The Bank of Canada has noted that housing activity declined in late 2025 and continues to face headwinds from economic uncertainty about tariffs and trade relations with the United States, affordability challenges, and slower population growth. While consumer spending is supporting the broader economy, high uncertainty around U.S. tariffs and the Middle East conflict is weighing on business investment and exports. Overall Canadian GDP growth is forecast at a modest 1.2% for 2026, gradually picking up in 2027–2028.
The Canadian economy would gain significant stability from a robust trade agreement with the United States, provided the government can overcome its ineffective negotiation efforts.
Inflation Rising but Expected to Ease
CPI inflation had risen to 2.4% in March 2026, driven largely by higher gasoline prices from the Iran conflict. The Bank expects inflation to climb further in April (around 3%) before trending back toward the 2% target by early 2027, assuming oil prices moderate. Core inflation remains well-behaved just above 2%.
What This Means for Real Estate
Although the Bank of Canada held its key policy rate steady at 2.25% today for the fourth consecutive meeting, this pause is likely temporary. Inflation has already climbed to 2.4% and is forecast to reach about 3% in April, driven by sharply higher energy prices from the Middle East conflict. The Bank has explicitly stated it “will not let higher energy prices become persistent inflation” and stands “ready to respond as needed.”
For homebuyers, this means now is the time to buy. Rates are still at attractive levels after months of holds, but they will undoubtedly increase in the coming months as the Bank acts to keep inflation in check. Securing a mortgage today lets you lock in today’s lower borrowing costs before they rise, protecting you from higher monthly payments later. With housing activity already soft and affordability pressures mounting, acting now positions you ahead of the curve.
While this news should spur activity, sellers should recognize the need for their properties to be the ones chosen by buyers. Competitive pricing is essential.
In Humber Bay Shores, active inventory has fallen from over 300 active listings this summer to just 197 now, signalling renewed buyer confidence albeit at lower prices.
The best rates that we have seen so far:
3 year fixed at 4.19% (increased from 3.99% in March 2026)
5 year variable at 3.60%
The next scheduled date for announcing the overnight rate target is June 10, 2026.
E: LDALINDA@DALINDA.NET • TEL: 416-725-7170
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Palace Place, 1 Palace Pier Court, and Palace Pier, 2045 Lake Shore Boulevard West, in Humber Bay Shores.
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View all current and past Palace Place listings for sale here.
Luke Dalinda, Realtor. Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd., Brokerage.
View all current and past Palace Place listings for sale here.