A new national report from Women’s Shelters Canada, funded proudly by the Royal LePage® Shelter Foundation™, has shed light on the effects of a housing crisis on women fleeing intimate partner violence at local shelters and transition houses from coast to coast. 

Among survey respondents – which included individuals working in shelters and survivors accessing support – 99.5% felt that their community was facing a housing crisis, with 97% indicating that over the preceding year it had become harder to support survivors to find housing.

“These findings have confirmed what we’ve been hearing anecdotally from women’s shelters across the country for years,” said Anuradha Dugal, executive director of Women’s Shelters Canada and Board Member of the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation. “Since there’s no affordable housing, women are staying in shelters longer, which increases turn-away rates. It creates a bottleneck effect where new women can’t move in if women already in shelter have nowhere to go.”

While the majority of organizations surveyed have length of stay policies, only 3% abide by those timelines. Worryingly, compared to 2023, respondents reported that more survivors are leaving shelter for housing that does not meet their needs, is not safe, is unaffordable, and/or often contributes to cycling back into a shelter. Alarmingly, some survivors are choosing to return to abusers rather than face homelessness. When survivors are faced with such decisions, their stress escalates, and their well-being suffers; 92% of respondents had seen survivors’ stress increase due to the housing crisis. 

Yet despite all the challenges, shelters continue their lifesaving work by offering a range of supports to help women find housing and advocate for more housing options for survivors. Some organizations are responding to the housing crisis and the demand for shelter services by working to expand the number of units and/or shelters across the country. 

“Housing affordability is a deeply relevant issue for Royal LePage® professionals working to help Canadians in all corners of our country achieve their dream of home ownership,” said Lisa Gibbs, executive director of the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation. “While the situation is complex, we are hopeful that this nuanced report will help continue to move the needle in ensuring access to safe and affordable housing for everyone – especially those among us who are most vulnerable.”

Visit rlp.ca/donate to join the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation in its work to make home a safe place for everyone. 
Women’s Shelters Canada brings together 16 provincial and territorial shelter organizations and supports over 600 shelters across the country for women and children fleeing violence. If you or someone you know is experiencing violence, you can find your nearest women’s shelter and its crisis line at sheltersafe.ca.

When it comes to decorating your home, style doesn’t have to come at the expense of practicality. With a little thought, planning, and intention, you can create a beautiful space that’s also easy to maintain. Here are some simple, stylish ideas for a home that looks great and stays clean with minimal effort:

Opt for Washable Paint Finishes
Gloss or satin finishes are your best friend in high-traffic areas. They’re more durable and can easily be wiped down without damaging the paint. Whether it’s fingerprints in the kitchen or scuffs in the hallway, a washable finish will keep your walls looking fresh.

Choose Slipcovers or Washable Fabrics
Furniture can endure a lot of wear, especially in busy homes. Slipcovers are not only easy to remove and wash, they also give your furniture a fresh, updated look. Choose fabrics like cotton, linen, or performance blends that stand up to wear and are machine washable.

Invest in Durable Flooring
Engineered hardwood, porcelain or ceramic tile, and luxury vinyl plank are beautiful and durable choices. They can typically handle spills, pet accidents, and constant foot traffic, all while looking sleek and modern. Opting for washable rugs in high-traffic areas can be especially helpful if you have kids or pets. They’re easy to clean and will help protect your flooring while still adding comfort and style.

Keep Surfaces Simple
Smooth, sleek surfaces are easier to wipe down than textured or overly detailed ones. Choose tables, counters, and shelving that are simple and practical, without too many crevices that can trap dirt.

Designing a stylish home that’s also easy to maintain is all about finding the balance between aesthetics and function.

Spring is here, and while the season brings warmer weather, it also brings a rise in allergens. From pollen to mold, allergens can quickly make their way indoors and affect your health and well-being. Here are some simple steps to help keep your home allergen-free this season:

Manage Pollen: Start by washing your windows and wiping down surfaces regularly to remove pollen. Keep windows closed during peak pollen times, and change your air filters to keep your HVAC system clean.

Combat Mould and Mildew: Spring moisture can lead to mould growth. Keep your home well-ventilated, and use a dehumidifier in high-moisture areas like bathrooms and basements. Check for any mould in corners or hidden areas. 

Clean Dust Mites: Dust mites thrive in warm, humid conditions. Wash bedding, rugs, and curtains frequently in hot water. Vacuum your mattress and consider using allergen-proof covers for pillows and mattresses.

Limit Pet Dander: If you have pets, regular grooming and bathing can help minimize dander. Be sure to clean pet bedding and toys often and use an air purifier designed to capture dander.

Install an Air Purifier: Consider using an air purifier with a HEPA filter to remove airborne allergens like pollen, dust, and pet dander, and keep the air fresh.

By following these simple tips, you and your family can breathe easier this spring. 

Spring is the perfect time for a getaway. But before you pack your bags and hit the road, don’t forget to prep your home for your time away. Knowing your home is secure and free from surprises will give you the peace of mind to unplug and enjoy your vacation.

Your Spring Travel Home Prep Checklist:

Lock it Down: Double-check all windows and doors to ensure they’re securely locked. Consider installing a smart security system for extra protection while you’re away. Don’t forget to secure any high-value items that might be left in plain sight. If you can, use a safe or lock them in a drawer to keep them out of view.

Refrigerator Prep: Clean out perishables from the fridge to prevent unwanted odours or spills. You might also want to wipe down any food storage areas to avoid attracting pests while you’re away.

Adjust Your Thermostat & Unplug Devices: Save energy (and money!) by setting your thermostat a few degrees lower. Be sure to unplug unnecessary electronics and appliances to avoid power surges and save even more energy.

Turn Off Water Valves: Prevent any leaks or water damage by turning off the main water supply before you leave.

Lighting: Using timers to turn lights on and off gives the appearance that someone is home. This is an easy way to deter unwanted attention.

Tell a Trusted Neighbour or Friend: Let someone nearby know you’ll be away, so they can keep an eye out for any suspicious activity, help with emergencies, or even collect packages that might be left at your door.

Consider a Home Audit: This is a great time to walk through your house and look for any small maintenance issues that could turn into bigger problems while you’re gone—like a leaky faucet or loose roof shingles.

With a little preparation, you can head off on your spring getaway with reassurance knowing your home is safe and secure.

For more expert advice on keeping your home safe, efficient, and ready for anything, check out the Royal LePage Blog, blog.royallepage.ca.

According to the Royal LePage® House Price Survey released today, the aggregate1 price of a home in Canada increased 3.8 per cent year over year to $819,600 in the fourth quarter of 2024. On a quarter-over-quarter basis, the national aggregate home price remained essentially flat, rising a modest 0.5 per cent. When broken out by housing type, the national median price of a single-family detached home increased 4.9 per cent year over year to $855,900, while the median price of a condominium increased 1.5 per cent year over year to $592,700. While activity began to flourish again in the final months of 2024, following sluggish demand in most major markets over the summer, home price appreciation remained in check last quarter. 

“There are several converging factors revitalizing Canada’s real estate market and making home ownership more attainable,” said Phil Soper, president and CEO, Royal LePage. “Interest rates have fallen sharply in recent months, with further reductions expected in 2025. At the same time, new mortgage rules are already helping younger Canadians by increasing borrowing power and reducing monthly carrying costs.

“Year over year activity levels were up sharply in Canada’s largest cities during the fourth quarter, with national home sales volumes exceeding the ten-year moving average for the first time since the post-pandemic market slowdown began three years ago,” said Soper. “As sidelined buyers regained confidence and took advantage of improved affordability, momentum built steadily through the final months of 2024.

“We expect stronger demand to persist through the winter, setting the stage for an early and active spring season,” continued Soper. “Home prices are likely to trend only modestly upward over the coming year as inventory is absorbed. This is welcome news for buyers, who can look forward to a more balanced market compared to the frenzied conditions of 2021 and 2022.”

Royal LePage is forecasting that the aggregate price of a home in Canada will increase 6.0 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2025, compared to the same quarter last year. 

1 Aggregate prices are calculated using a weighted average of the median values of all housing types collected. Data is provided by RPS Real Property Solutions and includes both resale and new build.

Learn more:

• National release: rlp.ca/Q4-2024-hps-release   

• Regional analyses: rlp.ca/regional-releases 

• Quebec Markets release: rlp.ca/Q4-2024-hps-release-QC   

• House Price Survey Chart: rlp.ca/house-prices-Q4-2024  

• Market Survey Forecast Chart: rlp.ca/market-forecast-Q4-2024

At first, your home may have felt like true love – the perfect match, full of excitement and possibility. But as time goes on, the honeymoon phase can fade. Maybe you’re craving more space, a shorter commute to work or school, or modern features that other homes seem to have. If you’re feeling restless, you might be wondering, “Is it time for a fresh start, or can this relationship be saved with a little TLC?”

Deciding whether to move to a new home or renovate the one you’ve got is no small decision — it’s a mix of emotions, finances, and practicality all rolled into one. Think of it like the HGTV classic Love It or List It: weighing the pros and cons of both options to figure out what truly fits your family and lifestyle. 

This guide will help you determine if your home is still “the one” or if it’s time to move on.

Top reasons to renovate your home

If you love your neighbourhood, have sentimental attachments to your home, or see potential in upgrading your space, renovating might be the better option. Here’s when improving makes sense:

1. Your home has good bones

If your home is structurally sound and doesn’t require major foundational work, a renovation could be a cost-effective way to address your needs. Open up your floor plan, update outdated features, or add square footage to create a home that feels brand new.

2. You love your location

If your home is in a desirable neighbourhood, close to work, or within a top school district, improving your home allows you to enjoy these benefits while adapting your space to meet your needs.

3. Renovations increase value

Consider renovations that will add significant value to your property. Projects like modernizing the kitchen, updating bathrooms, or adding energy-efficient upgrades often provide a good return on investment.

4. Moving costs are prohibitive

Between realtor fees, closing costs, and moving expenses, relocating can be expensive. If your renovation budget is less than the cost of moving, it might make more financial sense to stay put.

Top reasons to move to a new home

Sometimes, no amount of renovation can fix a home that no longer suits your lifestyle. Here’s when moving to a new property may be the better option:

1. Space is limited

If your family has outgrown your current home and there’s no room to expand, or zoning restrictions make it impossible to do so, moving to a larger property may be the best solution.

2. Your needs have changed

Life changes – like a growing family, a new job, or aging parents moving in – may make your current home impractical. In these cases, finding a home that meets your new needs can be more effective than extensive renovations.

3. Renovations are too costly

If the renovations required to make your home suitable are extensive and expensive, the ROI might not justify the investment. In this case moving may be more cost-effective.

4. You’re ready for a change

Sometimes, the desire for a fresh start or a completely different style of home outweighs the convenience of staying. If you’re feeling uninspired or constrained in your current home, it might be time to explore new options.

Key questions to help you decide whether to renovate or relocate

Still stuck between renovating and relocating? Here are a few crucial questions to ask yourself to find an answer. 

1. What’s my budget? Compare the costs of renovating versus moving. Don’t forget to factor in hidden costs like permits, temporary housing, or realtor fees.

2. How disruptive will renovations be? Living through major renovations can be stressful and time-consuming. Consider whether you have the time and patience for the process.

3. Will I get the features I want? If your renovation can’t deliver your dream home, moving may be the better choice.

4. How long do I plan to stay? If you plan to stay in your current home for many years, renovations could be a worthwhile investment. If not, moving might make more sense.

How we can support your decision

The choice between moving and improving is deeply personal and depends on your unique situation. By evaluating your needs, budget, and long-term goals, you can make a decision that works best for you and your family. 

Whether you decide to renovate or relocate, having the right team on your side makes all the difference. Royal LePage professionals specialize in helping homeowners navigate these pivotal decisions. From finding trusted contractors to discovering your dream home, they’re here to guide you every step of the way.

More than half of Canadian borrowers anticipate their monthly mortgage payment to increase upon renewal in 2025

More than a million Canadian mortgages will come up for renewal this year. Though interest rates have been on the decline for the last several months, many borrowers are bracing for an increase to their monthly payment – an adjustment that could be quite steep for some households.

According to a recent Royal LePage survey, conducted by Hill & Knowlton,1 more than half (57%) of Canadians who are renewing the mortgage on their primary residence in 2025 expect their monthly mortgage payment to increase upon renewal (35% expect it to increase slightly and 22% expect it to increase significantly). Meanwhile, 25% say their monthly mortgage payment will remain about the same – within $100 of their current payment amount – and another 15% expect their monthly payment to decrease upon renewal.

“When it comes to post-pandemic mortgage renewals, many Canadians have avoided the worst-case scenario of having to sell their homes due to the inability to cover the cost of their mortgage, thanks to solid employment trends and declining interest rates,” said Phil Soper, president and CEO, Royal LePage. “Nevertheless, some will face a substantial rise in their mortgage costs, putting added pressure on their household finances. Many in this situation are exploring options to lower their monthly fees, such as extending their amortization period; a tactic which has proven popular.”

Of those who expect their monthly mortgage payment to rise upon renewal, 81% say the increase will put financial strain on their household; 47% expect a slight strain, while 34% expect a significant strain.

Though many Canadians will see their monthly mortgage payment rise this year, most see no reason to make preemptive major lifestyle changes to cope with increased housing expenses. A majority (62%) of respondents say they will not change their living arrangements to avoid potentially higher monthly mortgage costs. Respondents in Quebec were the most likely to say they will not adjust their living arrangements (78%), while those in Alberta were the least likely to say so (53%). Nationally, however, 11% say they are considering relocating to a more affordable region; 10% say they are considering downsizing; and 10% say they are considering renting out a portion of their home to subsidize expenses. Respondents were able to select more than one answer.

Variable-rate mortgages rise in popularity

With interest rates on a downward trajectory, variable-rate mortgages are gaining in popularity. According to the survey, 66% of Canadians with a mortgage renewing this year say they plan to obtain a fixed-rate loan upon renewal (down from the 75% who currently hold fixed-rate mortgages), and 29% say they will choose a variable-rate loan (up from the 24% who currently hold variable-rate mortgages).

While most Canadians with pending renewals in 2025 plan to stick with the same type of mortgage product they currently have, a sizable shift toward variable-rate loans has emerged. Of those who currently have a fixed-rate mortgage renewing this year – the most popular mortgage product overall in Canada – 20% say they will switch to a variable-rate loan. Seventy-six per cent say they intend to renew with another fixed-rate loan. Meanwhile, 61% of current variable-rate mortgage holders intend to renew with another variable-rate loan, and 37% say they will switch to a fixed rate.

“Since last summer, the Bank of Canada has made several cuts to its overnight lending rate amounting to a decline of 200 basis points thus far, driving variable mortgage rates down in tandem. For homeowners looking to reduce their monthly payments or pay down their principal faster, variable-rate mortgages have become an increasingly attractive option in light of today’s declining rate environment and the likelihood of further cuts this year,” added Soper. “Ultimately, Canadians should choose the mortgage product that best suits their financial goals and risk tolerance.”

Read the full press release and review the data chart for more information and regional insights:

PRESS RELEASE

DATA CHART

Royal LePage resources for those renewing their mortgage 

Move in by Spring 2025! The “TERRACES” CUTE 1 bed & den unit, perfect for a 1st time buyer or empty nester wanting to downsize, or anyone in between .From the moment you walk in you will love the nature light streaming in.Large living room with wood burning fireplace. Sliders to balcony facing south & enjoy view to Metro Town. Cozy kitchen with stain glass window. Dining room with retro light fixture. Good size primary bedroom with walk through closet to 4-piece bath. Bonus, den/office/guest bedroom/shoe closet, you decide! Laundry closet, just add washer & dryer. Also a shared laundry room in the building. Easy care flooring.1 parking spot.1 Locker on the same floor as unit. Transit, shopping & recreation close by. Great for students commuting to SFU or BCIT. 

Book a first date to view this condo. Was listed at $515,000.00