Real Estate Insider: February 2025
Posted on February 21st 2025 by Lalovich
Welcome back, Real Estate Insiders! This month, we’ll examine U.S. tariffs and their threat to Canadian real estate, financial limits to know in 2025, Walmart and the cost of poverty, a nostalgic look at the iconic house from ‘Home Alone’, plus so much more! If you haven’t signed up to our newsletter SUBSCRIBE NOW to receive insider updates, tips and advice, and so much more to keep you informed throughout the month. Let’s dive in!
2025 Financial Limits to Know
In 2025, you can contribute up to $7,000 to your TFSA, bringing the lifetime max to $102,000 for tax-free growth. RRSP limits are 18% of your 2024 income or $32,490, whichever is lower, and you can carry forward unused room. First-time homebuyers can save up to $8,000 in an FHSA, with the option to roll over unused contributions from 2024. Want to make the most of your savings? Read the full article below!
Read: Important TFSA, RRSP, and FHSA Numbers for 2025
Understanding Contract Breach & Repundiation
In January 2022, buyers in Exeter, Ontario, proceeded with a home purchase despite a missed deadline. After months of no communication, they assumed the deal was off but didn’t cancel until August. The court ruled them bound to the contract, making them liable for $232,400 in damages. Find out the whole story in this article!
Read: Seller Entitled to $230K in Damages After Failed Home Purchase
Should you Transfer your Principal Residence to your Corporation?
Transferring your home to a corporation can defer taxes but risks losing the principal residence exemption, leading to capital gains tax. Personal use requires rent or taxable benefits, and corporate tax rates may increase future costs. Read the full article for details
Read: Is Transferring your Principal Residence to your Corporation a Good Idea?
Guiding you Through the Challenges of Rental Property Investments
Real estate agents help clients invest in rental properties by analyzing the market, cash flow, and taxes. With expert advice on property choices and financing, they guide smart decisions and long-term success. Thinking about rental property investing? Read the article to learn more about how agents can help!
Read: Helping Clients Navigate the Complexities of Rental Property Investments
Seniors Hold More Mortgages Than Young Adults
In Canada, more seniors have mortgages than young adults under 35, with 14% of mortgage holders aged 65+ compared to 12% under 35. As reverse mortgages rise, many seniors carry debt into retirement, while younger buyers struggle to enter the market. Curious about this trend? Read the full article to learn more!
Read: Canadian Seniors More Likely to Have a Mortgage than Young Adults
Are U.S. Tariffs a Threat to Canadian Real Estate?
Concerns over U.S. tariffs under Trump’s return are making waves in Canada’s real estate market. Experts weigh in on whether these fears are overblown or if they could impact home prices and investments. What does this mean for buyers and sellers? Find out here.
Read: Trump’d-Up Tariff Fears and What this Means for Canadian Real Estate
Is the Housing Market Becoming a Bigger Problem?
Home prices remain high, mortgage rates are squeezing buyers, and supply issues persist. The market is shifting, but is it for better or worse? This article breaks down the current trends and what they mean for the future. Get the full scoop below.
Read: Is the Housing Market is Becoming a Problem?
Inside the Iconic ‘Home Alone‘ House
Ever wondered what happened to the famous ‘Home Alone‘ house? From its real-life location to fun behind-the-scenes facts, this article dives into everything you’ve ever wanted to know about one of the most famous holiday homes. Take a nostalgic tour:
Read: Everything You’ve Ever Wondered About the Home Alone House
Walmart, Low Prices, and the Cost of Poverty
Walmart is known for its low prices, but is it really helping struggling families? This deep dive explores how its pricing strategy affects the economy and whether it’s truly benefiting low-income shoppers. Uncover the real impact in the article below.
Read: the Walmart Effect
Canadian Home Prices Won’t Recover Until 2029?
BMO predicts that Canadian real estate prices won’t return to their peak levels until at least 2029. What’s causing this slowdown, and what does it mean for homeowners and investors? See the expert analysis in the following article.
Read: Canadian Real Estate Prices Won’t Recover Peak Until 2029
Ontario Housing Market: What’s Next?
OREA’s latest report tracks trends in Ontario’s real estate market, from affordability challenges to shifting buyer demands. Where are prices headed, and how will policy changes impact supply? Check out the key takeaways:
Read: Housing in Ontario: Perceptions, Impacts, and Solutions
The New Housing Market Premium
Today’s buyers are paying more than ever, not just for homes but for location, lifestyle, and future investment potential. What’s driving this “premium” in the market, and is it here to stay? Find out more:
Read: the New Housing Market Premium
How to Run a Proper Tenant Background Check
Landlords, don’t skip this step! A thorough tenant background check can save you from costly headaches. Learn the key steps to vet potential renters the right way. Read the expert guide below!
Read: How to Run a Tenant Background Check: Essential Tips for Smart Landlords
B.C. Realtor Ordered to Return $3.3M After Breaking Fiduciary Duty
A real estate agent from B.C. has been forced to return millions after failing to act in a client’s best interest. What happened, and what does this mean for buyers and sellers? You can find out the full story below!
Read: B.C. Realtor Ordered to Surrender “Ill-Gotten Gains” in $3.3M Sale After Breaching Fiduciary Duty