If you’re shopping for a mortgage in 2025, you’re not alone in turning to a mortgage broker for help.

According to CMHC’s 2024 Mortgage Consumer Survey, 48% of Canadians used a mortgage broker for their mortgage in 2024 — up significantly from 43% the year before. As mortgage rates, qualification rules, and renewal options continue to change, more Canadians are looking for expert guidance and access to multiple lenders.

So why are mortgage brokers becoming more popular across Canada and here in Edmonton?

Canadians Want More Mortgage Options

One of the biggest reasons borrowers are choosing mortgage brokers is simple: options.

Unlike a bank that can only offer its own products, mortgage brokers work with multiple lenders. This gives buyers and homeowners the ability to compare rates, terms, and mortgage products all in one place.

In today’s market, even a small difference in interest rate can make a noticeable impact on monthly payments and long-term borrowing costs.

Mortgage Renewals Are Becoming More Important

With many Canadians renewing mortgages that were originally locked in at much lower rates, borrowers are paying closer attention to their renewal options.

Many homeowners automatically renew with their current bank without exploring alternatives. However, working with a mortgage broker allows borrowers to compare offers from multiple lenders and potentially find a better fit for their financial goals.

This has become especially important as affordability remains a concern for many Canadians.

First-Time Buyers Need Guidance

Buying a home can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time buyers navigating:

• down payment requirements

• mortgage stress tests

• closing costs

• interest rates

• lender qualifications

Mortgage brokers help simplify the process and explain available options so buyers can make informed decisions with confidence.

More Canadians Are Looking Beyond the Big Banks

Many borrowers are surprised to learn that mortgage brokers can access products from a variety of lenders, including:

• major banks

• credit unions

• monoline lenders

• alternative lending solutions

This flexibility can help borrowers who are self-employed, have unique income situations, or are looking for more customized financing options.

Why Edmonton Buyers Are Turning to Mortgage Brokers

Here in Edmonton, buyers are continuing to look for ways to maximize affordability while navigating an active real estate market.

Working with a mortgage broker can help buyers:

• understand their purchasing power

• compare lender options

• prepare for renewals

• explore refinancing opportunities

• build a mortgage strategy that fits their long-term goals

At MetroYEG, our team works closely with clients to make the mortgage process as smooth and stress-free as possible while helping them explore options that fit their needs.

Thinking About Your Mortgage Options?

Whether you’re buying your first home, renewing your mortgage, refinancing, or simply exploring your options, having expert guidance can make a big difference.

As more Canadians continue turning to mortgage brokers, it’s clear that personalized advice and access to multiple lenders matter more than ever.

If you have questions about mortgages or the Edmonton real estate market, the MetroYEG team is here to help.

April 29 – May 5, 2026

The Greater Edmonton Area real estate market continued to show steady momentum this past week, with increases across new listings, unit sales, and home prices. As the spring market remains active, both buyers and sellers are continuing to benefit from strong market activity and healthy demand throughout the region.

New Listings on the Rise

A total of 1,103 new listings hit the market this week, marking a 17% increase compared to the previous reporting period. This rise in inventory gives buyers more options to explore while still maintaining competitive conditions in many price points and neighbourhoods.

Sales Activity Remains Strong

The Edmonton area recorded 627 unit sales, up 4% week-over-week. Consistent sales activity continues to highlight ongoing buyer confidence despite fluctuating interest rates and market conditions. Well-priced homes in desirable areas are still moving quickly, especially detached homes and updated properties.

Home Prices Continue to Climb

The average residential price in the Greater Edmonton Area reached $488,000, representing a 7% increase. At the same time, the median price rose to $465,000, also up 7%.

These price increases reflect continued demand across the market, particularly in affordable detached homes, townhomes, and move-up properties. Edmonton continues to attract buyers looking for relative affordability compared to other major Canadian cities, while local demand remains strong.

What This Means for Buyers and Sellers

For sellers, the current market conditions continue to create opportunities to maximize value, especially with strong buyer activity and rising prices.

For buyers, increased inventory is providing more selection, but competition remains present in many segments of the market. Being pre-approved and prepared to act quickly remains important when the right property becomes available.

Whether you’re considering buying, selling, refinancing, or simply curious about your home’s value, staying informed on weekly market trends can help you make confident real estate decisions.

Statistics are based on data from the REALTORS® Association of Edmonton MLS® System and sourced from REALTOR.ca. Total residential includes detached, semi-detached, row/townhouse, and apartment condominium properties.

If you own a home in Edmonton, you may be asking yourself a big question in today’s market:

Should I sell my property—or rent it out?

At MetroYEG, we help homeowners make this decision every day. The right choice depends on your financial goals, market conditions, and long-term plans.

Let’s break it down.

Option 1: Selling Your Edmonton Property

Selling can be a great option if you’re looking to access your equity and simplify your finances.

Pros of Selling:

• Immediate access to equity

• No landlord responsibilities

• Ability to reinvest or upgrade your home

• Take advantage of current market demand

Cons of Selling:

• You lose a long-term appreciating asset

• Selling costs (realtor fees, legal fees, etc.)

• Potential capital gains (if not your primary residence)

Best for:
Homeowners in Edmonton who want liquidity or are ready for a lifestyle change.

Option 2: Renting Out Your Property

Keeping your home as a rental can build long-term wealth—but it comes with responsibilities.

Pros of Renting:

• Ongoing rental income

• Property appreciation over time

• Potential tax benefits

• Builds long-term equity

Cons of Renting:

• Property management and tenant issues

• Maintenance and repair costs

• Vacancy risk

• Market fluctuations

Best for:
Homeowners in Edmonton who want to build wealth and can manage (or outsource) a rental property.

What’s Happening in the Edmonton Market Right Now?

In Edmonton, we’re seeing:

• Strong rental demand due to population growth

• Increased home prices compared to previous years

• Higher interest rates impacting cash flow

This creates a unique situation where both selling and renting can make sense—depending on your numbers.

Key Question: Will Your Property Cash Flow?

Before deciding to rent, you need to run the numbers:

Monthly Rental Income
vs
Expenses (mortgage, taxes, insurance, maintenance)

If your property:

• Generates positive cash flow → Renting may be a strong option

• Breaks even or loses money → Selling may be worth considering

When Selling Might Be the Better Choice

Consider selling if:

• You have significant equity built up

• Your property wouldn’t cash flow as a rental

• You don’t want the stress of being a landlord

• You want to reinvest into another opportunity

When Renting Might Be the Better Choice

Consider renting if:

• Your property is in a high-demand rental area in Edmonton

• You can generate consistent income

• You’re thinking long-term (5+ years)

• You’re comfortable managing tenants (or hiring a property manager)

The “Hybrid” Strategy (What Many Edmonton Owners Are Doing)

Some homeowners are choosing to:

• Rent out their current home

• Buy another property using rental income to qualify

This can be a powerful wealth-building strategy—but it needs to be structured properly.

Why Work With MetroYEG?

This decision isn’t just about today—it’s about your long-term financial future.

At MetroYEG, we help you:

• Analyze your property’s value vs rental potential

• Run real cash flow scenarios

• Explore mortgage options if you keep the property

• Create a strategy tailored to the Edmonton market

FAQS

Is it better to sell or rent my home in Edmonton?
It depends on your financial situation. If your property cash flows, renting can build long-term wealth. If not, selling may be the better option.

Is Edmonton a good rental market?
Yes—Edmonton has strong rental demand and relatively affordable entry prices compared to other major cities.

How much rent can I charge in Edmonton?
Rental rates vary by neighborhood, property type, and condition. A local market analysis can give you an accurate estimate.

Can I use rental income to qualify for another mortgage?
Yes—lenders can use a portion of your rental income to help you qualify.

Final Thoughts

There’s no universal answer to whether you should sell or rent your property in Edmonton.

• Selling gives you immediate access to cash and simplicity

• Renting offers long-term wealth and income potential

The right move depends on your goals, finances, and comfort level.

If you’re buying a home or renewing your mortgage in Edmonton, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is choosing between a fixed or variable mortgage.

At MetroYEG, we get this question daily—and the answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. It depends on your financial goals, risk tolerance, and where interest rates are headed.

Let’s break it down so you can make the right choice.

What Is a Fixed Mortgage?

A fixed-rate mortgage locks in your interest rate for the entire term (usually 1–5 years).

Pros:

• Predictable monthly payments

• Protection from rising interest rates

• Easier budgeting

Cons:

• Typically higher starting rate than variable

• Penalties can be higher if you break the mortgage early

Best for:
Buyers in Edmonton who want stability and peace of mind.

What Is a Variable Mortgage?

A variable-rate mortgage fluctuates with the prime rate set by lenders (influenced by the Bank of Canada).

Pros:

• Often lower starting rate

• Potential to save money if rates drop

• More flexible penalties

Cons:

• Payments can increase if rates rise

• Less predictability

Best for:
Buyers in Edmonton who are comfortable with some risk and want to take advantage of potential rate decreases.

What’s Happening With Interest Rates in Edmonton Right Now?

In today’s market, interest rates have been a major factor in affordability across Edmonton.

Key trends:

• Rates increased significantly in recent years

• There’s ongoing speculation about future decreases

• Buyers are becoming more payment-conscious

This makes the fixed vs variable decision more important than ever.

Fixed vs Variable: Key Differences

Which Mortgage Is Better in Edmonton Right Now?

Here’s the honest answer from MetroYEG:

Choose Fixed If:

• You want стабильность in your payments

• You’re concerned about rates increasing

• You prefer a “set it and forget it” approach

Choose Variable If:

• You believe rates will decrease

• You can handle payment fluctuations

• You want potentially lower costs over time

A Hybrid Strategy (What Many Edmonton Buyers Are Doing)

Some buyers in Edmonton are:

• Choosing shorter fixed terms (1–3 years)

• Or going variable with a plan to lock in later

This strategy gives flexibility while managing risk.

Why Work With MetroYEG?

Choosing between fixed and variable isn’t just about rates—it’s about strategy.

At MetroYEG, we:

• Compare multiple lenders (not just one bank)

• Customize mortgage solutions based on your goals

• Help you understand the long-term impact of your decision

Whether you’re buying, refinancing, or renewing in Edmonton, having expert guidance can save you thousands.

FAQs

Is a fixed or variable mortgage better in Edmonton right now?
It depends on your risk tolerance. Fixed offers stability, while variable may offer savings if rates drop.

Will interest rates go down in Canada in 2026?
There is speculation they may decrease, but nothing is guaranteed.

Can I switch from variable to fixed later?
Yes—most variable mortgages allow you to lock into a fixed rate.

What does MetroYEG recommend?
At MetroYEG, we recommend a personalized approach based on your financial goals and market conditions in Edmonton.

Final Thoughts

There’s no universal “best” mortgage—only what’s best for you.

In today’s Edmonton market:

• Fixed = stability

• Variable = flexibility and potential savings

The right choice depends on your comfort level and financial plan.

The Greater Edmonton Area real estate market continues to show steady activity this spring, with strong buyer demand and balanced pricing trends across many communities.

According to the latest Weekly Market Watch, 634 homes sold during the week of April 15 to April 21, 2026, while 982 new listings came to market. This gives buyers more options while helping keep the market competitive for sellers.

At MetroYEG Realty & Mortgage Team, we closely monitor Edmonton market trends so our clients can make confident buying, selling, and financing decisions.

Key Edmonton Real Estate Stats This Week

🏡 New Listings: 982

New listings were down 10%, but inventory remains active across Edmonton and surrounding communities. Buyers now have a variety of options, from condos and townhomes to detached homes.

🔑 Unit Sales: 634

Sales were up 7%, showing continued buyer confidence in the Edmonton housing market. Well-priced homes are still attracting strong attention and moving quickly.

💰 Average Price: $509,000

The average residential price increased 5%, reflecting healthy demand and steady appreciation in many neighbourhoods.

📊 Median Price: $460,000

Median prices rose 1%, suggesting consistent market stability while remaining more affordable than many other major Canadian cities.

What This Means for Edmonton Buyers

With more listings available and pricing still relatively affordable, now can be a smart time to buy in Edmonton. Whether you're a first-time buyer, upgrading, or investing, having mortgage pre-approval in place gives you a major advantage.

At MetroYEG, we help buyers with both real estate services and mortgage solutions under one roof — making the process smoother and less stressful.

What This Means for Edmonton Sellers

Buyer activity remains strong, especially for homes that are priced properly and marketed professionally. If you’ve been thinking about selling this spring, the current market conditions may create an excellent opportunity.

Our team can help you determine your home’s value, prepare a strategy, and maximize your sale price.

Why Work With MetroYEG?

MetroYEG Realty & Mortgage Team combines experienced REALTORS® and mortgage brokers to provide a seamless experience for clients across:

• Edmonton

• Sherwood Park

• St. Albert

• Fort Saskatchewan

• Spruce Grove

• Leduc

• Stony Plain

Whether buying, selling, refinancing, or investing, we simplify the process from start to finish.

Contact MetroYEG Today

Thinking about making a move in Edmonton?

📞 780-266-1166 I 780-908-9369
🌐 www.metroyeg.ca

Let MetroYEG help you navigate the market with confidence.

Market statistics sourced from Realtor.ca and the REALTORS® Association of Edmonton MLS® System.