09/17/2026
Canada: Rate Cuts Can Worsen Affordability
There’s a common belief that lower interest rates should make homes more affordable, but recent research from Canada’s central bank suggests the reality is more complex. When rates are cut, we tend to see a quick jump in housing demand—resales often increase soon after, and the full effect is felt within 18 to 24 months. However, new housing starts generally don’t pick up until about two years later. Strong labour markets can make this effect even stronger, as people feel more confident making big moves and lenders become more flexible. Builders are often slower to respond, as higher prices and easier financing make new projects more attractive, but planning and approvals—especially for multi-unit developments—take time. For buyers and sellers in our market, this means that while rate cuts can eventually help increase supply, they don’t resolve affordability challenges right away. As someone who works closely with families across Pickering, Oshawa, and the GTA, I see firsthand how these dynamics shape your options. It’s a reminder that affordability depends on more than just interest rates—it’s about timing, supply, and understanding the bigger picture.