Buying your first home just got a lot more attainable.

The federal government has introduced new legislation (Bill C-4) that removes GST on qualifying new homes—potentially saving first-time buyers up to $50,000. If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines, this could be the opportunity that finally makes homeownership within reach.

Let’s break down what this means and how it could impact you.

What’s Changing?

The new policy eliminates GST on certain newly built homes, reducing the upfront cost of purchasing a property.

Here’s a simple breakdown:

• First-time home buyers may qualify

• Applies to new builds and pre-construction homes

• No GST on homes priced up to $1 million

• Partial GST savings on homes priced between $1 million and $1.5 million

This is a significant shift that directly lowers the cost of buying a new home—something that hasn’t been easily accessible for many buyers in recent years.

The Catch (And Why It Matters)

As with most government programs, there are some important limitations to be aware of.

This GST relief:

• Only applies to new homes

• Does NOT apply to resale properties

That means if you're considering an existing home, this particular incentive won’t apply—but for buyers open to new construction, the savings can be substantial.

Why This Is a Big Deal for Buyers

This isn’t just a small rebate—it’s a meaningful reduction in your upfront costs.

Lower upfront costs can mean:

• A more manageable down payment

• Reduced closing costs

• Greater purchasing power

• Easier entry into the market

For many first-time buyers, the biggest barrier isn’t monthly payments—it’s getting into the market in the first place. This change directly addresses that challenge.

Is Now the Right Time to Buy?

If you’ve been waiting for the right moment, this could be it.

With potential savings of up to $50,000, combined with the right mortgage strategy and guidance, stepping into homeownership may be more realistic than ever.

How to Take Advantage of This Opportunity

Navigating new builds, pre-construction timelines, and financing options can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to figure it out alone.

At METROYEG, we help you:

• Understand if you qualify for GST savings

• Explore the right new-build opportunities

• Structure your mortgage to maximize affordability

• Coordinate everything from pre-approval to possession

Final Thoughts

Government incentives like this don’t come around often—and when they do, they can make a real difference.

If you’ve been thinking about buying your first home, now is the time to explore your options and see how much you could save.

Have questions or want to see what you qualify for?
Reach out to the METROYEG team—we’re here to help you make your next move with confidence.

The latest real estate data for the Greater Edmonton Area shows a market that continues to evolve as we move further into the spring season. While some metrics are holding steady, others reflect shifting dynamics between buyers and sellers.

New Listings See a Slight Dip
There were 842 new listings added to the market this week, representing an 8% decrease compared to the previous period. This slight pullback in inventory could indicate that some sellers are waiting for more favorable conditions, or simply pacing their entry into the busy spring market.

Sales Activity on the Rise
Unit sales came in strong at 533 transactions, marking a notable 14% increase. This jump in activity suggests that buyer demand remains active and confident, even as inventory tightens slightly. Well-priced homes continue to attract attention and move quickly.

Prices Holding Steady Overall
The average price across the market remained stable at $474,000, showing no change week-over-week. This stability is a positive sign, indicating a balanced environment without significant volatility.

Meanwhile, the median price sits at $436,000, down slightly by 2%. This minor adjustment may reflect a higher proportion of more affordable homes selling, rather than a broad decline in property values.

What This Means for Buyers and Sellers
For sellers, strong sales activity combined with stable pricing suggests a solid opportunity—especially for homes that are priced competitively and show well.

For buyers, while competition is increasing, the slight dip in median price and reduced new listings means acting quickly and strategically is key.

Looking Ahead
As we continue into the spring market, all eyes will be on inventory levels and whether new listings rebound. If demand continues at this pace, we could see increased competition and potential upward pressure on prices in the coming weeks.

Stats are sourced from Realtor.ca and reflect residential properties including detached, semi-detached, row/townhouse, and apartment condominiums.

Buying or refinancing a home in Edmonton is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. Between navigating mortgage rates, understanding the market, and coordinating your purchase, it can quickly feel overwhelming.

That’s exactly why having the right team on your side matters.

At METROYEG, we combine real estate expertise with mortgage solutions—giving you a seamless, stress-free experience from start to finish.

Here’s why so many Edmonton clients trust our team.

1. A True One-Stop Shop: Real Estate + Mortgage Expertise

One of the biggest advantages of working with METROYEG is having both realtors and mortgage brokers under one roof.

Instead of juggling multiple professionals, you get:

• Expert guidance on buying or selling

• Mortgage advice tailored to your situation

• A fully coordinated strategy from pre-approval to possession

Unlike traditional banks that only offer their own products, mortgage professionals can access multiple lenders and options to better suit your needs .

With METROYEG, everything works together—saving you time, stress, and money.

2. Personalized Guidance for Edmonton Buyers

Every market is different—and Edmonton is no exception.

From navigating competitive neighborhoods to understanding pricing trends, having local expertise is key. METROYEG focuses specifically on the Edmonton market, helping you:

• Understand what you can afford

• Identify the right opportunities

• Make confident, informed decisions

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, upgrading, or investing, we tailor every step to your goals.

3. Access to Competitive Mortgage Rates & Options

Many buyers don’t realize that sticking with one bank can limit their options.

Mortgage professionals work with multiple lenders, giving clients access to a wider range of products and potentially better rates .

At METROYEG, we:

• Shop the market for you

• Compare multiple lenders

• Structure your mortgage to fit your long-term plans

The result? A mortgage that works for you—not just what a single institution offers.

4. Clear Communication Every Step of the Way

Buying a home can feel confusing—but it shouldn’t.

We prioritize:

• Fast, clear communication

• Breaking down complex terms into simple language

• Keeping you informed at every stage

From your first consultation to closing day, you’ll always know what’s happening and what comes next.

5. A Stress-Free, Fully Supported Experience

Let’s be honest—real estate and mortgages can be stressful.

That’s why our goal is simple: make the process as smooth as possible.

We handle the details so you don’t have to:

• Coordinating financing and deadlines

• Managing paperwork

• Problem-solving behind the scenes

With the right team, what feels overwhelming becomes manageable—and even exciting.

6. Proven Results & Client-First Approach

At METROYEG, everything we do is built around one thing: your success.

We’re committed to:

• Honest advice

• Strategic planning

• Long-term relationships—not just transactions

Because your home isn’t just a purchase—it’s part of your future.

Ready to Make Your Move in Edmonton?

Whether you’re buying your first home, refinancing, or upgrading, having the right team makes all the difference.

With METROYEG, you get:
✔ Local Edmonton expertise
✔ Integrated real estate + mortgage services
✔ Access to better options and rates
✔ A team that truly has your back

Let’s make your next move the right one.

The real estate market in Edmonton continues to show steady momentum as we move through March. This past week brought a mix of modest inventory changes and solid buyer activity, pointing to a balanced yet active spring market.

New Listings Slightly Down

There were 916 new listings added to the market this week, representing a 2% decrease compared to the previous week. While this is a slight dip, inventory levels remain healthy, giving buyers a range of options across different property types.

Sales Activity on the Rise

Unit sales came in strong at 467 transactions, marking an 8% increase week-over-week. This uptick signals growing buyer confidence and continued demand as we head deeper into the spring market—traditionally one of the busiest times of the year.

Home Prices Trending Upward

Price growth remains steady across the board:

• Average Price: $475,000 (+3%)

• Median Price: $445,000 (+2%)

These increases suggest that while the market is active, price appreciation is happening at a sustainable pace—good news for both buyers and sellers.

What This Means for Buyers and Sellers

For buyers, rising sales and stable pricing indicate that acting sooner rather than later may be beneficial before competition intensifies further.

For sellers, the combination of increasing sales and steady price growth creates an ideal environment to list, especially with serious buyers actively entering the market.

Thinking About Making a Move?

Whether you’re buying, selling, or just exploring your options, staying informed on weekly trends can help you make smarter real estate decisions in Edmonton’s evolving market.

Data sourced from REALTOR.ca and the MLS® System.

The Bank of Canada has once again held its policy rate steady at 2.25%, signaling a cautious but deliberate approach as economic uncertainty continues to unfold globally.

This rate sits at the lower end of the Bank’s estimated “neutral” range—meaning monetary policy is currently neither stimulating nor slowing the economy. With inflation hovering just below the Bank’s 2% target and core inflation easing to 2.3%, policymakers believe the current rate is appropriate for now.

Global Conflict Driving Economic Uncertainty

A major factor influencing this decision is the ongoing War in Iran, which is now in its third week and already having widespread economic consequences.

The conflict has disrupted global supply chains and triggered a sharp rise in energy prices. The near closure of the Strait of Hormuz—a critical route for global oil shipments—has created bottlenecks affecting not only oil and natural gas but also key commodities like fertilizer.

As a result:

• Global inflation is expected to rise in the short term

• Financial conditions have tightened

• Bond yields are increasing

• Equity markets are declining

• Credit conditions are becoming less favorable

Despite these pressures, the Canadian dollar has remained relatively stable against the U.S. dollar.

A Softening Labour Market

Both Canada and the U.S. are experiencing a slowdown in employment.

Recent gains seen late in 2025 have been reversed, with Canada’s unemployment rate rising to 6.7% in February 2026. Export data is also showing signs of weakness, although it remains too early to fully assess how the Middle East conflict will impact long-term economic growth.

Trade Challenges and Shifting Global Partnerships

Canada continues to navigate significant trade uncertainty, particularly in relation to the United States. While efforts are underway to diversify trade relationships globally, replacing the scale and efficiency of the U.S. market is no easy task.

Even with increased oil exports to China and growing opportunities in Europe and Asia, there is currently no single market that can fully offset reduced demand for Canadian steel and aluminum from the U.S.

The future of the CUSMA remains a key factor in Canada’s economic outlook. It may take several more months before there is clarity on the direction of this agreement.

What This Means for the Housing Market

Canada’s housing market has been in a gradual downturn over the past few years.

• Nominal home prices have declined approximately 20% since their peak in early 2022

• When adjusted for inflation, real home prices are down nearly 30%

For buyers—especially first-time homebuyers—this presents a significant opportunity to enter the market at more favorable price points.

Rising Bond Yields and Mortgage Rates

Even though the Bank of Canada has held its overnight rate steady, market-driven interest rates are rising.

• The 5-year bond yield is approaching 3%

• The 2-year bond yield sits at 2.72%, notably above the overnight rate

As a result, lenders have already begun increasing fixed mortgage rates. If expectations continue to lean toward rising rates, fixed-rate mortgages may become the more attractive option for many borrowers.

The Bottom Line

The Bank of Canada is walking a fine line—balancing inflation control with the need to support economic stability during a period of global uncertainty.

With geopolitical tensions, shifting trade dynamics, and rising borrowing costs, Canadians—especially homebuyers and homeowners—should stay informed and be prepared to adapt their financial strategies.

While challenges remain, opportunities are emerging—particularly in the housing market for those ready to act.

When purchasing a home, one of the most important steps in the process is the home inspection. Whether you’re buying your first property or your fifth, a home inspection provides valuable insight into the condition of the property before the purchase is finalized.

At MetroYEG Realty & Mortgage Team, we always recommend buyers consider a professional home inspection. It helps ensure there are no major surprises and gives you a clearer understanding of the home you’re purchasing.

Here’s what you should know about home inspections when buying in the Edmonton area.

What Is a Home Inspection?

A home inspection is a professional evaluation of a property's visible condition. A qualified home inspector examines the home’s major components to identify potential issues, safety concerns, and maintenance items.

The goal of an inspection isn’t to determine whether a home is “perfect.” Instead, it helps buyers understand the overall condition of the property and identify areas that may require repair, replacement, or future maintenance.

Why Home Inspections Are Important

A home inspection can reveal information that may not be visible during a typical showing. It allows buyers to make more informed decisions before completing the purchase.

A home inspection can help you:

• Understand the overall condition of the property

• Identify potential repairs or safety concerns

• Learn the age and condition of major systems

• Plan for future maintenance costs

• Gain peace of mind before moving forward

Even well-maintained homes can have issues, which is why inspections are recommended for most real estate purchases.

What Home Inspectors Typically Check

During a standard inspection, the inspector will review many of the home’s key systems and components.

These typically include:

Exterior

• Roof condition and shingles

• Gutters and downspouts

• Siding and exterior walls

• Grading and drainage around the home

• Windows and doors

Structure

• Foundation

• Basement walls

• Visible structural components

Interior

• Walls, ceilings, and floors

• Windows and doors

• Stairs and railings

Plumbing

• Visible pipes

• Faucets and drains

• Water heater

• Signs of leaks

Electrical

• Electrical panel

• Outlets and switches

• Visible wiring

Heating and Ventilation

• Furnace

• Thermostat

• Ventilation systems

• Air conditioning (if present)

If appliances are included in the purchase, inspectors will typically check those as well.

What a Home Inspection Does NOT Include

Home inspections focus on visible and accessible areas of the home. Because of this, there are certain things that are typically not included in a standard inspection.

These often include:

• Issues hidden inside walls or ceilings

• Sewer line inspections (camera inspections are often done separately)

• Mold or air quality testing

• Asbestos or hazardous material testing

• Detailed engineering reports

• Cosmetic concerns

If the inspector identifies a potential concern, they may recommend additional specialized inspections.

What to Expect During a Home Inspection

Most home inspections take between 2–4 hours, depending on the size, age, and condition of the home.

Buyers are encouraged to attend the inspection if possible. This allows you to ask questions and learn more about how the home’s systems work.

After the inspection, the inspector will provide a detailed report, typically within 24 hours. This report often includes photos, notes about any deficiencies, and recommendations for maintenance or repairs.

How Much Do Home Inspections Cost in Edmonton?

In the Edmonton area, a typical home inspection costs between $450 and $650, depending on the size of the home.

Some buyers also choose to add additional services such as:

• Sewer camera inspections

• Radon testing

• Thermal imaging

Your real estate professional can help determine whether these additional inspections may be worthwhile depending on the property.

Final Thoughts

A home inspection is one of the best tools available to help buyers understand the property they are purchasing. While no home is perfect, an inspection helps identify potential issues and gives buyers the information they need to move forward with confidence.

If you are buying a home in Edmonton and have questions about the inspection process, the team at MetroYEG Realty & Mortgage Team is always happy to help guide you through the next steps.

As the snow starts to melt and the days get longer, the real estate market in Edmonton begins to heat up. Spring is traditionally one of the busiest seasons for buying and selling homes, and for good reason.

At MetroYEG, our team of realtors and mortgage brokers helps clients navigate the spring market with confidence, whether you're buying your first home, upgrading, downsizing, or refinancing.

Here’s why spring is such an important time in the Edmonton real estate market.

More Homes Hit the Market

Spring is when many homeowners decide to list their properties. Better weather makes it easier to show homes, and sellers often want to move before summer.

For buyers, this means more options and more variety. Instead of choosing from limited winter inventory, you’ll typically find a wider selection of:

• Single-family homes

• Condos and townhomes

• Acreages and luxury properties

If you’ve been waiting for the right home to appear, spring is often when it finally does.

Buyers Are More Active

Spring also brings a surge of motivated buyers in Edmonton. Many families prefer to move during the summer months so they can settle in before the next school year begins.

Because of this, homes that are priced well and properly marketed tend to sell quickly.

For sellers, this can mean:

• More showings

• More competition among buyers

• Stronger offers

At MetroYEG, we help sellers position their homes to stand out in a competitive market.

Mortgage Pre-Approvals Matter More in Spring

With more buyers competing for homes, having your mortgage pre-approval ready becomes especially important.

As a combined realtor and mortgage broker team, MetroYEG can help you:

• Get pre-approved before you start house hunting

• Understand your true purchasing power

• Compare mortgage options from multiple lenders

• Move quickly when the right property appears

Being prepared financially can make a huge difference when competing for a home in the busy spring market.

Spring Is the Perfect Time to Boost Your Home’s Value

If you’re thinking about selling, spring also makes it easier to improve curb appeal.

Simple upgrades can go a long way, such as:

• Cleaning up the yard after winter

• Adding fresh mulch or flowers

• Washing windows and siding

• Touching up paint inside the home

These small improvements can help your property make a strong first impression with buyers.

Thinking About Buying or Selling in Edmonton This Spring?

Spring can bring great opportunities for both buyers and sellers, but preparation is key.

At MetroYEG, our team offers both real estate and mortgage expertise to help guide you through every step of the process in Edmonton and surrounding communities.

If you're thinking about making a move this spring, we’d be happy to help you explore your options and create a plan that works for you.

✔ Buying a home
✔ Selling your property
✔ Mortgage pre-approvals
✔ Refinancing or renewals

MetroYEG is here to help with it all!