09/04/2026
📊 What's Happening with Mortgages in Ontario Right Now
If you own a home or want to buy one in Ontario, the week of August 28 to September 4, 2026, brought some big changes. Even though the main bank decided to pause its rates, other costs are going up.
Here is what is happening and what it means for your money. 👇
🛑 1. The Big Bank Takes a Break
- On September 2, 2026, the Bank of Canada decided to keep its main interest rate exactly the same at 2.25%. This is the seventh time in a row they have kept it the same.
-Variable Rates Stay the Same: The basic bank rate stays at 4.45%. If you have a mortgage where the monthly payment changes with the bank, your cost will stay the same for now.
- A Weird Switch: Right now, variable rates (rates that can change) are actually cheaper than fixed rates (rates that stay locked in). This is rare, and it will likely stay this way for the rest of 2026.
📈 2. Fixed Rates Are Going Up
- Even though the big bank took a break, the bond market did not. Because of money troubles around the world and trade arguments with the U.S., Canadian bond costs have jumped.
- Banks Are Charging More: Fixed mortgage rates are tied to these bonds. Because bond costs went up, at least 17 Canadian banks raised their fixed rates over the last two weeks.
- Crossing the 4% Line: The very best fixed rates are around 3.94%, but most regular banks are pushing their rates up above 4.00% now.
💡 The Plan: What You Should Do
- We are entering a strange fall market. The big bank is resting, but regular mortgage costs are still climbing.
- If your mortgage ends soon: Do not wait to see if rates drop. Lock in a rate with your bank today. This protects you in case banks raise prices again soon.
- The Big Choice: Since variable rates are cheaper than fixed rates right now, picking a variable rate or a short 2-year fixed rate might be a smart move. That way, you do not get stuck with a high price for too long.
📌 Local Spotlight: Homes in Grey and Bruce Counties
- The house market near us in Grey and Bruce counties is doing much better than the big city of Toronto. If you want to buy or sell a home in Owen Sound, Saugeen Shores, or West Grey, here is the truth:
- Lots of Homes to Choose From: There are plenty of houses for sale right now. In West Grey, there are enough homes to last for almost 10 months! Buyers have lots of time to look around.
Prices are Steady: The average house price in our area is between $500,000 and $580,000. Prices are staying flat and steady instead of jumping up or down.
- Room to Bargain: Houses are selling for a little bit less than the price on the tag—usually about 96% to 97% of the asking price. Sellers often have to lower their price a bit to make a deal.
- The Main Point: If you are buying a home here, you have a great chance to pick a nice house and get a good deal. If you are selling, you need to pick a fair price and make your house look beautiful so buyers notice it.
If you are planning a move or a renewal, let me know:
Are you buying a new home or renewing an old mortgage?
Do you prefer the safety of a fixed payment or the potential savings of a variable rate?
I can help you map out your exact next steps.