Welcome back, Real Estate Insiders! As we begin the new year, we’re focusing on what matters most right now: what to know before switching mortgage lenders, why 40-year mortgages could cost Canadians far more over time, and whether a long-awaited housing slowdown may finally appear in 2026. We’re also breaking down how to sell a tenanted property in today’s market, the real financial case for renting versus owning in Canada, and a must-read checklist for first-time buyers navigating 2025’s rules. There’s plenty more below. If you’re not subscribed yet for insider insights and smarter real estate decisions, SUBSCRIBE NOW. Let’s dive in!

Switching Mortgage Lenders? What You Should Know Before You Apply

This article explains whether you must re-qualify for your mortgage when switching lenders, how interest rates and lending rules affect your approval, and what paperwork lenders care about most. Don’t refinance blind—click to learn how to save cash and avoid surprises!

Read: A Homeowner Asks: Do I Need to Re-qualify When Switching Mortgage Lenders?

Buying a Business Car in 2025: EV or Gas?

A tax expert breaks down how the Canada Revenue Agency treats EVs vs gas vehicles for business tax deductions this year, including depreciation classes (CCA) and real-world write-off implications. See which vehicle gives your business the biggest tax advantage!

Read: Buying a Car for Your Business in 2025: EV vs Gas and the Real CRA Tax Deduction Rules

How Much Space $2,000 Per Month Gets You in the 25 Biggest US Cities

This data-packed piece shows what $2,000 in rent buys you in major US markets, highlighting dramatic differences in square footage and housing affordability across regions. Compare cities now and find where your budget goes furthest!

Read: How Much Space $2,000 a Month in Rent Gets you in the 25 Biggest U.S. Cities

Canadians Could Pay Up to 75% More Interest on 40-Year Mortgages

A new PBO analysis finds that extending mortgage terms to 40 years could dramatically increase total interest costs for Canadian homeowners, potentially making long terms much more expensive in the long run. See how much extra interest you really pay.

Read: Canadians Would Pay 75% More Interest with 40-Year Mortgages: PBO

First Time Home Buyers: the Only Checklist you Need in 2025

A complete guide to everything new buyers must know before purchasing their first home, including financing, taxes, inspections, and common pitfalls to avoid. Don’t buy without this checklist, read it first!

Read: Everything First Time Home Buyers Need to Know Before Buying their First Home

Selling a Tenanted Property in 2026: A Canadian Investor’s Guide

Advice for property investors on selling a rented home in 2026, including handling tenants legally, timing your sale, and maximizing value in a shifting market. Read the strategies seasoned investors use to sell smarter!

Read: How to Sell a Tenanted Property in 2026

Big Lot or Great Views: Which Home Gives Better Value?

This personal finance post weighs the pros and cons of buying a home with a large lot versus one with amazing views, helping you align property choices with lifestyle goals. Decide what matters most for your next home. Find out here!

Read: Big Lot vs Great Views: Deciding Which Home Offers More Value

Will Home Prices Finally Fall in 2026?

A housing market expert reviews data showing that while prices rise most years historically, local corrections are happening, and a modest 2026 downturn could be possible in some markets. See if your market might soften next year.

Read: Will Home Prices Finally Fall in 2026?

The Case for Lifelong Renting in Canada

A detailed look at why lifelong renting can make financial sense for many Canadians, especially given rising house prices, high ownership costs, and shifting lifestyle preferences. Explore whether renting could be your smartest move.

Read: The Case for Lifelong Renting

America’s Housing Paradox: Why Prices Soar Even with Inventory

This essay breaks down the housing affordability crisis in the US, highlighting how income gaps and mismatched housing supply contribute to persistent pricing challenges. Understand the deeper forces driving housing frustration now.

Read: America’s Housing Paradox, Hiding in Plain Sight

The Year in Money 2025: Top Financial Lessons and Takeaways

MoneySense wrap-up of the biggest personal finance shifts in 2025, covering investing trends, credit and debt lessons, and practical takeaways for planning your financial year ahead. Catch up on everything that mattered in money this year!

Read: The Year in Money: Notable Personal Finance Changes for 2025

Canadian Snowbirds Face Dilemma Over U.S. Travel in 2026

As tensions rise and border sentiment shifts, many Canadian snowbirds are reconsidering their annual migration south. This deep dive explores the emotional, financial, and political reasons why some retirees may skip Florida, Arizona, and other U.S. destinations this year. Thinking of heading south? Read this first to weigh the real risks and rewards of your 2026 winter stay.

Read: For Canadian Snowbirds, the Stay or Go Dilemma Gets Complicated

Detroit’s Packard Plant to Be Reborn as 28-Acre Community Hub

After decades of decay, Detroit’s iconic Packard Plant is set for a massive revival. The $800M redevelopment plan includes housing, parks, business spaces, an electronic music museum, and indoor skate park—transforming a symbol of blight into a model for urban renewal. See how Detroit’s east side is rewriting its story—starting with 28 acres of possibility.

Read: New Ambitious Packard Plant Redevelopment Plan Unveiled