One of the biggest factors that impacts how buyers feel when they walk into a home isn’t flooring, paint colour, or even renovations…

It’s clutter.

A cluttered home feels smaller, darker, and more stressful — even if it’s actually a great property. The good news? Decluttering doesn’t require a massive renovation or expensive upgrades. Small, intentional steps can completely change how your home shows and photographs.

Here are 8 simple, realistic decluttering strategies that actually work.

1. Start Somewhere (Anywhere)

Decluttering can feel overwhelming when you look at the entire house at once. That’s usually why people procrastinate.

Instead of tackling everything, choose one small starting point:

• a pile of papers

• a junk drawer

• a single closet

• a bathroom cabinet

Momentum matters more than perfection. Once you begin, it becomes much easier to continue.

2. Create Three Categories: Keep, Donate, Sell

This is the easiest system to stay organized.

Every item you pick up goes into one of three piles:
Keep | Donate | Sell

Use boxes or bins while you work. When a box fills, set it aside and grab another so you don’t stop your progress. The key is making a decision immediately — not later.

3. Use the 5-Second Rule

Here’s a powerful test:

If you pick up an item and you can’t remember the last time you used it within 5 seconds, you probably don’t need it.

We often hold onto things “just in case,” but rarely use them. Items you haven’t used in years quietly take up valuable visual and physical space.

4. Ask: Does It Actually Bring You Joy?

This sounds simple, but it works.

If an item doesn’t:

• serve a purpose, or

• make you happy

…why is it still in your home?

Buyers notice emotional clutter just as much as physical clutter. The goal is to make the space feel calm, clean, and easy to live in.

5. Eliminate Duplicates

Most homes have far more duplicates than owners realize.

Examples:

• multiple spatulas

• extra kitchen tools

• old linens

• duplicate cleaning supplies

• backup decor items

You don’t need three of everything. Keeping only your best or favourite items instantly makes cabinets and drawers feel larger.

6. Recycle What You Can

Many homes store unused items that simply need to leave:

• old cell phones

• magazines

• outdated paperwork

• broken electronics

These items don’t belong in storage — they belong in recycling. Removing them frees up both space and mental load.

7. Set Time Limits

Decluttering doesn’t need to consume your entire weekend.

Set a timer:
20 minutes per room or area.

A time limit helps prevent overthinking. If you’re debating an item for longer than a few seconds, that’s usually your answer — it can go.

Short focused sessions are far more effective than occasional marathon cleaning days.

8. Don’t Let the Boxes Sit

This is the step most people miss.

You’ve sorted everything… but the donation boxes stay in the garage for months.

Once your boxes are full:

• donate them

• schedule pickup

• list sale items immediately

Decluttering only works when items actually leave the house.

Why This Matters When Selling

Decluttering is one of the highest-return “upgrades” you can make before listing your home.

It helps:

• rooms appear larger

• photos look brighter

• buyers focus on the home (not your belongings)

• showings feel more comfortable

• offers come faster

In many cases, proper decluttering alone can increase perceived value more than small renovations.

If you’re thinking about selling in Edmonton and want to know what specifically you should remove, store, or keep, our MetroYEG team can walk through your home and give you a personalized pre-listing plan.

Sometimes you don’t need to renovate — you just need to simplify.

Canada’s latest inflation report just came out, and while it may look like a small change on paper, it actually matters quite a bit for interest rates, mortgage payments, and buyer confidence — especially here in the Edmonton area.

In January, Canada’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 2.3% year-over-year, slightly down from 2.4% in December. At first glance, a 0.1% drop sounds insignificant — but for economists and the Bank of Canada, it’s an important signal about where borrowing costs could head next.

Let’s break down what actually happened and, more importantly, what it means for homeowners, buyers, and anyone with a mortgage.

Why Inflation Fell

The biggest driver behind the drop in inflation was gasoline prices.

Fuel prices were 16.7% lower than a year ago, a larger decline than in December. This wasn’t because gas suddenly became cheap overnight — it was mainly due to a base-year effect. In early 2025, oil prices were rising sharply, so current prices look much lower in comparison.

However, when you remove gasoline from the calculation, inflation was still sitting at 3.0%, which tells us underlying inflation pressures haven’t completely disappeared.

Some Prices Are Still Rising Quickly

Even though headline inflation cooled, many everyday costs are still climbing — and some quite sharply.

Here are some of the biggest increases:

• Restaurant meals: +12.3%

• Alcoholic beverages (store): +7.9%

• Alcohol in restaurants/bars: +9.0%

• Toys & hobby supplies: +8.7%

• Children’s clothing: +6.3%

• Grocery store food: +4.8%

One interesting change: fresh fruit prices actually fell 3.1%, largely due to strong harvests in producing regions (berries, oranges, and melons led the decline).

The Most Important Part for Homeowners: Shelter Costs

This is where the report becomes especially relevant to real estate and mortgages.

Shelter inflation — which includes rent and mortgage interest — slowed significantly.

• Shelter cost growth: 1.7% year-over-year

• Rent increases slowed to 4.3%

• Mortgage interest cost increases slowed to 1.2%

This is a big deal.

It’s the first time in nearly five years shelter inflation has dropped below 2%. Slower growth in rents and mortgage costs is exactly what the Bank of Canada has been waiting to see after its aggressive rate hikes over the past couple of years.

In simple terms:
Higher interest rates worked. They cooled the housing cost pressure in the economy.

What About Interest Rates?

Here’s the question everyone really wants answered:

Will the Bank of Canada cut rates now?

Probably not yet.

While inflation is easing, the Bank of Canada is still cautious. The central bank recently held its policy rate at 2.25% and has signaled it does not want to stimulate the economy too quickly. Governor Tiff Macklem warned that cutting rates prematurely — especially during economic uncertainty — could reignite inflation.

Another major factor:
Ongoing uncertainty around trade and U.S. tariffs. The Bank wants clearer economic conditions before making a move.

The core inflation measures the Bank watches most closely did improve:

• Median inflation: 2.5% (down from 2.6%)

• Trim inflation: 2.4% (down from 2.7%)

This is encouraging, but not enough by itself to trigger an immediate rate cut.

What This Means for Buyers

This report actually creates a scenario we often call a “window of opportunity.”

Here’s why:

Interest rates are likely near their peak, but the Bank of Canada is not rushing to cut yet. That means:

• Payments are stable

• Competition is still moderate

• Prices haven’t surged yet

• Many buyers are still waiting

Historically, the housing market becomes most competitive after rate cuts begin — not before. When rates drop, demand spikes quickly and prices tend to follow.

What This Means for Homeowners & Renewals

If you have a mortgage renewal coming up, this data is helpful.

Mortgage interest cost inflation slowing strongly suggests:

• We are past the worst of rate increases

• Variable rates are unlikely to rise again

• Fixed rates may gradually trend downward over time

However, waiting without a plan can be risky. Lenders often price renewals higher than necessary because many borrowers simply sign the offer they receive.

This is exactly where a mortgage broker can make a big financial difference — comparing multiple lenders rather than just accepting your bank’s renewal.

The Bottom Line

Inflation is cooling — slowly but steadily.

We are not quite at the stage where the Bank of Canada will immediately cut rates, but the direction is clearly improving. The biggest missing piece right now isn’t inflation anymore — it’s economic certainty.

Once confidence improves, housing activity is expected to rebound, and historically that happens quickly.

For buyers, this is often the calm before the storm.
For homeowners, it’s the time to review your mortgage strategy — not after rates change, but before.

Tax season is here, and for many homeowners in Edmonton, Sherwood Park, St. Albert, Fort Saskatchewan, Beaumont, and Leduc, filing your taxes involves more than just your employment income.

If you purchased, sold, refinanced, or renewed a mortgage in the past year, your home can directly impact your taxes — and many homeowners don’t realize it until they speak with their accountant or an Edmonton mortgage broker.

Every year we meet clients across the MetroYEG area who either miss available credits or unknowingly create issues with the CRA simply because they didn’t know the rules. Here are some important tax-season reminders for homeowners in the Edmonton real estate market.

First-Time Home Buyers in Edmonton: Don’t Miss This Credit

If 2025 was the year you bought your first home, you may qualify for the First-Time Home Buyers’ Tax Credit.

Eligible buyers can claim up to $10,000, which typically provides about $1,500 in tax savings.

This applies to many buyers who entered the Edmonton market last year — especially those purchasing:

• New builds in Chappelle, Keswick, or Orchards

• Townhomes in Fort Saskatchewan

• Condos in downtown Edmonton

• Starter homes in Sherwood Park

If you purchased with a spouse or partner, you can split the credit. Be sure your accountant knows it was your first principal residence.

Moving for Work in Alberta? You May Be Able to Deduct Expenses

The Edmonton region is heavily employment-driven. We frequently see relocations due to:

• Oil & gas jobs

• Trades work

• Healthcare positions

• Military postings

• RCMP transfers

If you moved at least 40 km closer to your new workplace, certain moving expenses may be deductible on your tax return.

This commonly applies to homeowners moving from rural Alberta into Edmonton or relocating within the Greater Edmonton Area for employment.

Working From Home in Edmonton

Working from home is now extremely common, and many homeowners are unaware they may qualify to claim home-office expenses.

Depending on your situation, you may be able to claim a portion of:

• Utilities

• Internet

• Home operating costs

• Workspace area

Rules differ between employees and self-employed individuals, so proper documentation is important.

Sold Your House in Edmonton? You Still Must Report It

This one surprises a lot of people.

Even though the principal residence exemption usually means you won’t pay capital gains tax, the sale of your home still must be reported to the CRA.

We frequently see missed reporting when homeowners:

• Upgrade from a condo to a detached home

• Move from Edmonton to Sherwood Park or St. Albert

• Downsize after retirement

• Convert a home into a rental property

Failure to report the sale can lead to penalties — even when no tax is owed.

Rental Properties & Basement Suites

Edmonton is one of Canada’s strongest rental markets, and many homeowners now own:

• Basement suites

• Duplexes

• Legal secondary suites

• Investment condos

If you earned rental income, it must be reported. The good news is many expenses can often be deducted, including certain property costs and financing expenses depending on how funds were used.

This is especially important if you used a refinance or HELOC to purchase an investment property.

Refinancing or Mortgage Changes Can Affect Taxes

Over the past year, many homeowners contacted a mortgage broker in Edmonton to:

• Consolidate debt

• Access home equity

• Renovate

• Invest in real estate

• Switch lenders at renewal

While a mortgage refinance itself is not taxable, the purpose of the borrowed funds matters. For example, borrowing to invest or run a business can change how interest is treated for tax purposes.

This is one reason we often coordinate with clients and their accountants during refinancing.

Mortgage Renewal in Edmonton: Why Tax Season Is the Perfect Time

Tax season is actually one of the best times to review your mortgage.

Your tax return gives a clear picture of:

• Income

• Debt levels

• Cash flow

• Qualification ability

If your mortgage renewal in Edmonton is coming up within the next 12–18 months, planning early can:

• Lower your payment

• Avoid lender penalties

• Improve approval options

• Position you to buy another property

Many homeowners wait until their bank sends a renewal letter — which is often the most expensive time to make a decision.

Why Speak With an Edmonton Mortgage Broker?

Your accountant helps you file taxes.
A mortgage broker helps you structure your mortgage around your financial future.

In the Edmonton real estate market, homeowners often have more equity than they realize, and tax season frequently reveals opportunities like:

• Debt consolidation

• Investment property purchases

• Equity take-outs

• Payment reductions

Need Mortgage Advice in Edmonton?

Whether you bought, sold, refinanced, or your mortgage renewal is approaching, the MetroYEG Mortgage Team is happy to review your options.

We help homeowners across:
Edmonton, Sherwood Park, St. Albert, Beaumont, Leduc, Fort Saskatchewan and surrounding communities.

A quick review now can prevent costly mistakes later — and sometimes save thousands over the life of your mortgage.

Week Ending January 14, 2025

The Edmonton real estate market picked up significant momentum this past week, with notable increases across sales activity, new listings, and pricing. Here’s a breakdown of what we saw in the market and what it could mean for buyers and sellers moving forward.

📈 Sales Activity Surges

There were 278 residential unit sales recorded in Edmonton this week, representing a 93% increase compared to last week. This sharp rise in sales suggests renewed buyer confidence and strong demand, even during what is typically a slower time of year.

🏡 New Listings on the Rise

Sellers are also stepping into the market in greater numbers. 610 new listings were added this week, which is 44% higher than the previous week. While inventory is increasing, the pace of sales indicates that well-priced homes are still moving quickly.

💰 Prices Continue to Climb

• Average sale price: $455,000, up 10% week-over-week

• Median sale price: $430,000, up 2% from last week

The rise in both average and median prices points to continued upward pressure on home values, driven by strong demand and competitive conditions in many segments of the market.

🔍 What This Means for Buyers & Sellers

• Buyers: Increased inventory provides more options, but rising prices mean acting quickly and having a solid strategy is key.

• Sellers: Strong sales activity and increasing prices make this an opportune time to list, especially if your home is well-prepared and priced correctly.

As we move further into the new year, market activity is clearly gaining traction. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just keeping an eye on trends, staying informed week-to-week can help you make confident decisions.

Market statistics provided by the Realtors Association of Alberta.

For many Canadians, retirement should be a time of rest and enjoyment. But rising costs, unexpected expenses, and lingering debt often make that dream feel out of reach. If you’re carrying multiple high-interest debts — like credit cards, car loans, or even a mortgage — it can be stressful and difficult to manage finances on a fixed income.

That’s where a reverse mortgage can be a smart and flexible debt consolidation solution for Canadian homeowners aged 55 and over. Rather than making monthly payments on multiple debts, a reverse mortgage allows you to access the equity in your home — tax-free — to pay off those debts and simplify your financial life.

What Is Debt Consolidation?

Debt consolidation means combining several existing debts into one more manageable solution. This can help you:

• Reduce or eliminate monthly payments on high-interest debts

• Improve monthly cash flow

• Simplify financial planning and peace of mind

For many retirees, traditional debt consolidation loans aren’t accessible — they require high income and strong credit scores. But reverse mortgages look at different qualifying factors, like age, home value, and equity instead, making them more accessible for many retirees.

Understanding Reverse Mortgages

A reverse mortgage is a unique type of loan that lets you tap into your home’s equity without selling your property — and without monthly mortgage payments. Here’s how it works:

• You receive tax-free cash (either as a lump sum or in scheduled advances).

• You don’t make monthly mortgage payments.

• The loan is repaid only when you sell, transfer ownership, move permanently out of the home, or pass away.

That makes a reverse mortgage especially useful if you want to eliminate monthly debt payments and improve your cash flow in retirement.

Benefits of Using a Reverse Mortgage for Debt Consolidation

Here are some of the main advantages:

✔ No Monthly Mortgage Payments

Unlike traditional loans, reverse mortgages don’t require you to make monthly payments on the loan itself — giving you more cash flow each month to enjoy retirement.

✔ Flexibility in How You Receive Funds

You can choose to take your reverse mortgage funds as a lump sum or in monthly instalments, depending on your cash-flow needs.

✔ Accessible Qualification

Eligibility is generally based on your age (55+) and the value of your home — not your income or credit score — which can make it easier for retirees to qualify compared with other loans.

✔ Simplified Finances

Instead of juggling multiple payments and deadlines, you can consolidate debts into one manageable solution and focus on what matters most.

✔ No Impact on Retirement Benefits

The funds you receive from a reverse mortgage are considered tax-free and won’t affect eligibility for government benefits like Old Age Security or the Canada Pension Plan.

✔ Stay in Your Home

Perhaps most importantly, a reverse mortgage allows you to stay in the home you love while using your home equity to relieve financial stress.

Is a Reverse Mortgage Right for You?

While a reverse mortgage can be an excellent tool for many retirees needing debt relief and better cash flow, it’s not without long-term considerations. Using your home’s equity to consolidate debt means that equity will be reduced — which can impact what’s left to pass on to heirs or use later in life. It’s important to speak with a trusted mortgage professional and financial advisor to determine if this option fits your financial goals.

Final Thoughts

For many Canadian homeowners aged 55+, a reverse mortgage offers a flexible, payment-free way to consolidate and pay off existing debt — turning monthly stress into financial breathing room and a more comfortable retirement.

If you’d like to explore how much tax-free cash you could access, reach out to our team — we’re here to help you make the best decision for your retirement journey.

A new year often brings fresh goals — better finances, more stability, and a place that truly feels like home. If buying a home in Edmonton is one of your New Year’s goals, you’re not alone. Many buyers begin their home search early in the year to get ahead of the spring market and take advantage of opportunities that others might miss.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or planning your next move, here’s how to start the home-buying process in Edmonton the right way.

1. Get Clear on Your Homeownership Goals

Before browsing listings, take time to define what buying a home in Edmonton means for you this year.

Ask yourself:

• Are you buying your first home, upgrading, or downsizing?

• Do you prefer a condo, townhome, duplex, or detached home?

• Which Edmonton neighbourhoods fit your lifestyle and commute?

• Is this a long-term home or a shorter-term investment?

Clarity early on helps narrow your search and makes the process far less overwhelming.

2. Understand the Edmonton Real Estate Market

The Edmonton real estate market often behaves differently than larger Canadian cities, and early in the year can offer unique advantages.

Many buyers find that:

• There’s less competition compared to spring and summer

• Sellers listing early in the year tend to be more motivated

• Pricing can be more stable, offering better negotiating opportunities

Working with a local Edmonton real estate team like MetroYEG ensures you understand current market conditions and how to position yourself competitively.

3. Get Pre-Approved Before You Start House Hunting

One of the most important steps when buying a home in Edmonton is getting pre-approved for a mortgage.

A pre-approval helps you:

• Know your realistic budget

• Lock in a rate (when applicable)

• Strengthen your offer when you find the right home

• Avoid surprises later in the process

It also allows your real estate team to focus only on homes that truly fit your financial comfort zone.

4. Prioritize Your Must-Haves vs. Nice-to-Haves

No home is perfect, but having a clear list helps you stay focused.

Must-haves might include:

• Number of bedrooms or bathrooms

• Garage or parking

• Location or school district

• Budget limit

Nice-to-haves could be:

• Renovated finishes

• Large yard

• Finished basement

• Bonus room or home office

This step keeps emotions in check and makes decision-making easier when you’re viewing homes in Edmonton.

5. Work With a Local Edmonton Real Estate Expert

Buying a home is a major decision, and having the right guidance makes all the difference.

A local team like MetroYEG helps buyers by:

• Providing honest advice on pricing and value

• Identifying red flags and opportunities

• Negotiating strategically on your behalf

• Managing timelines, conditions, and paperwork

Having professionals who understand Edmonton neighbourhoods, pricing trends, and financing options gives you confidence from start to finish.

6. Plan for the Full Cost of Buying a Home

Beyond the purchase price, it’s important to budget for additional costs such as:

• Home inspection

• Legal fees

• Property taxes

• Insurance

• Moving expenses

Planning ahead ensures your New Year’s goal of homeownership stays exciting — not stressful.

Make This the Year You Buy a Home in Edmonton

If buying a home in Edmonton is one of your goals this year, starting early puts you in a strong position. With the right plan, clear expectations, and expert guidance, the process can be smooth and rewarding.

The MetroYEG team is here to help you navigate every step — from planning and pre-approval to finding the right home and negotiating the best outcome.

📩 Thinking about buying in Edmonton this year? Reach out to MetroYEG for personalized guidance and local expertise.

For many homeowners, the holidays are a time to get cozy, slow down, and reconnect with the people who matter most. But between the ornaments, snowfalls, and mugs of hot chocolate, this season can also bring clarity — especially when it comes to your goals for the year ahead.

If you live in Edmonton, you know winter isn’t something that happens by accident. We style it, shape it, survive it, and even love it. And, as it turns out, this mindset lines up closely with how many people approach real estate planning during the holidays — especially when it comes to mortgage pre-approval, refinancing, and home buying.

Whether you’ve been thinking about buying your first home, selling your current one, or revisiting your mortgage, the holidays can inspire the kind of long-term vision that only quiet winter months can bring.

🎁 Holiday Budgeting Meets Real Estate Planning

Edmonton winters tend to shift our focus toward budgeting, planning, and prioritizing — especially after the rush of gift shopping and seasonal spending.

If you’re considering a home purchase in 2025, now is the perfect time to take stock of your finances and start the mortgage pre-approval process. Holiday budgeting actually goes hand-in-hand with financial preparation:

• reviewing spending

• outlining savings goals

• exploring mortgage pre-approval options

• forecasting monthly payment comfort levels

Starting your pre-approval ahead of the new year gives you clarity, confidence, and a competitive advantage once you begin viewing homes. Our mortgage broker team at MetroYEG can walk you through current rates, compare products, and help set a realistic roadmap — so you’re ready when the right home appears.

❄️ Why Edmonton Buyers Often Use Winter to Their Advantage

Homes in Edmonton tell their truest stories in winter. The wind chill exposes drafts. Snowfall reveals drainage patterns. Driveways, sidewalks, and access routes suddenly matter.

For buyers, this means winter showings provide real-world proof of a home’s functionality. Add in lower market competition, motivated sellers, and a solid mortgage pre-approval, and suddenly the holidays can be a surprisingly strategic time to shop.

Even if you’re not planning to buy until spring, starting your mortgage pre-approval now gives you priceless clarity — and a serious head start in a competitive Edmonton market.

🎄 Selling During the Holidays? Let Edmonton Shine

Winter sellers in Edmonton aren’t just selling a house — they’re selling a feeling.

Picture warm lights in the windows, fresh snow on the lawn, and the sparkle of festive decor. Edmonton neighbourhoods look magical this time of year, and buyers know it.

And because many buyers entering the market during the holidays are already pre-approved, conversations can move faster and more smoothly — helping you avoid delays and stress.

With fewer listings on the market, homes stand out beautifully. And because holiday buyers tend to be serious, real discussions move quickly.

Thinking of listing in early 2025? The holidays are the perfect time to prepare:

• plan touch-ups

• organize storage

• book photography

• review pricing strategy

• pre-list marketing

• and connect with buyers who are arriving pre-approved and ready

✨ A Good Time to Revisit Your Mortgage, Too

As the year winds down, many Edmonton homeowners also pause to revisit their mortgage.

Whether you’re approaching renewal, exploring refinancing, or curious about improving your terms, the quiet winter season offers space to think — and save.

And for those looking ahead to a new home or a new mortgage product, beginning the pre-approval process now can help clarify what’s possible in 2025.

Our MetroYEG mortgage team provides personalized guidance, lender comparisons, and a transparent process. No generic bank approach. No guesswork.

Just clarity, options, and support — built around what you need most.

Edmonton, Home, and the New Year Ahead

The holidays don’t have to be a real estate “off-season.”
Instead, they can be a season of intention.

Edmonton’s winter encourages us to pause and reflect — and in that space, big decisions have room to take shape.

Whether buying, selling, seeking mortgage pre-approval, or reviewing your current mortgage, the MetroYEG team is here to help you move into 2025 with confidence, strategy, and peace of mind.

Wishing you a warm and wonderful holiday season from our team to your home. ❤️🏡❄️

Week Ending December 17, 2025

The Edmonton housing market held steady this week, offering buyers and sellers a balanced blend of consistency and opportunity as we head deeper into December. Here’s a breakdown of how the numbers shaped up:

📊 Sales Activity

A total of 321 homes sold across the Edmonton area this week — the same as last week, marking a 0% change. This consistency suggests continued buyer confidence, even as the year winds down.

🏡 New Listings

There were 378 new listings, an 18% decrease from last week. With fewer homes hitting the market, active listings are tightening, which may support stronger competition among buyers heading into the new year.

💰 Home Prices

Both the average and median sale prices showed interesting movement:

• Average sale price: $470,000 — up 3% week-over-week.

• Median sale price: $435,000 — down 2% week-over-week.

This combination may indicate increased demand for higher-end properties, or simply a shift in what sold this week. Either way, the overall upward movement in the average price is an encouraging sign for sellers.

📌 What This Means for You

As supply dips and average prices rise, buyers may notice fewer options and quicker decision timelines. Sellers, on the other hand, may find increased leverage — especially as motivated buyers stay active through the winter months.

If you’re thinking about entering the market soon, now is a great time to start the conversation.

Statistics sourced from the Realtors Association of Alberta.

When temperatures drop in Edmonton, most of us settle into cozy routines—hot drinks, warm socks, and avoiding the roads whenever possible. But winter is also an ideal time to give your finances a quick tune-up, especially if you’re thinking about a mortgage renewal, refinance, or purchase later this year.

Here are a few simple ways to use the winter months to strengthen your financial picture and set yourself up for success when the busy spring real estate market arrives.

1. Review Your Current Mortgage (You Might Be Paying Too Much!)

Winter is a slower season, which means it’s the perfect time to sit down with a broker and take a fresh look at your mortgage:

• Is your rate still competitive?

• Is your term ending in 2025?

• Are you in a fixed rate that’s much higher than what’s currently offered?

• Could restructuring help lower your monthly payments?

Many homeowners don’t realize how much a small change in rate—or switching products—can save them over a year.

2. Take Advantage of Winter Bills to Build a Budget

Winter utility bills spike, groceries cost more, and holiday spending can leave things a little tight.
BUT this actually makes winter the most accurate time to review your budget.

If your finances work during the most expensive months, you’re in great shape for the rest of the year. We help clients analyze:

• Income vs. expenses

• High-interest debt

• How much room they actually have for a mortgage or refinance

• Where small changes could increase their borrowing power

3. Use Downtime to Boost Your Credit

Winter gives you built-in “home time”—a perfect opportunity for a credit refresh.
A few quick wins that make a big difference before spring:

• Pay down balances on revolving credit

• Set up auto payments to avoid late fees

• Check your credit report for errors

• Avoid new credit applications unless necessary

A small credit boost can mean a lower mortgage rate later.

4. Explore Refinancing Before the Spring Rush

The spring market often brings more competition, busier lenders, and stricter turnaround times.
Winter, on the other hand, is calmer—making it a great window to:

• Lower your interest rate

• Consolidate high-interest debt

• Free up cash flow

• Access equity for renovations or investments

You don't need to wait for warmer weather to make a smart financial move.

5. Prepare for Renewal Early (Don’t Wait for the Letter!)

Most renewals sneak up on homeowners. But starting early—months early—gives you:

• More lender options

• More rate options

• More negotiation power

• More time to switch lenders if it gets you a better deal

Renewing in a rush almost always costs more.

Final Thoughts

Winter might be chilly, but it’s one of the warmest seasons for financial planning. With fewer market pressures and more time to think, it’s a smart moment to revisit your mortgage, reset your budget, and get your credit in great shape before the spring rush.

If you want help reviewing your mortgage or planning your next financial steps, the MetroYEG Mortgage Team is always here to guide you—winter, spring, summer, or fall.

As the snow starts to settle and Edmonton transforms into a winter wonderland, many people shift their focus toward family gatherings, festive traditions, and cozy nights at home. But the holiday season is also one of the most underrated — and advantageous — times to think about your next real estate or mortgage move.

At MetroYEG, our Edmonton-based real estate and mortgage broker team is here to help you navigate the market with clarity and confidence as the year comes to an end. Whether you're planning a purchase in the new year, preparing to list your home, or reassessing your mortgage, the holidays can be the perfect moment to get ahead.

🎁 Why the Holiday Season Can Be a Smart Time to Buy a Home

While many people assume real estate slows down in December, fewer active buyers actually work in your favour:

Less Competition

With fewer people shopping for homes during the holidays, qualified buyers often face less competition — which can mean more negotiating power and a more relaxed pace during the process.

Motivated Sellers

Homeowners who list during the winter months often have a strong reason to sell, meaning buyers may have more opportunities to secure favourable terms.

A Clearer Picture of Monthly Costs

Edmonton winters give you a realistic look at utility usage, insulation quality, and neighbourhood accessibility — valuable insights you won’t get from a summer showing.

🎄 Considering Selling? Winter Listings Have Their Benefits Too

While spring and summer tend to be the busiest seasons, winter sellers shouldn’t underestimate the power of the cozy-factor.

Homes Feel More Inviting

Warm lighting, tasteful décor, and the naturally cozy atmosphere of the season can help buyers emotionally connect with your home.

Serious Buyers Only

People shopping for homes during the holidays are typically highly motivated, cutting down on casual showings.

Less Market Competition

When fewer listings hit the market, your home stands out more — especially in Edmonton’s popular neighbourhoods.

If you’re thinking about listing in early 2025, the holidays are the perfect time to start planning, staging, and preparing.

✨ Mortgage Renewal or Refinance? The New Year Is the Perfect Time to Review

The end of the year is also an ideal moment to revisit your mortgage. With shifting interest rates and changing market conditions in Edmonton, exploring your options early can save you money in the year ahead.

We can help you:

• Review your current mortgage terms

• Explore better rates or flexible products

• Consolidate debt for a smoother financial start to 2025

• Prepare for a renewal with a personalized plan — not a one-size-fits-all approach

Unlike banks, MetroYEG's mortgage team works for you, not the lender.

🎁 A Holiday Message From MetroYEG

As we wrap up another year, our team at MetroYEG is grateful for the trust our clients place in us — from helping families find their forever homes to guiding homeowners through smart mortgage decisions.

Whether you're celebrating with family, friends, or simply enjoying the quiet of the season, we wish you warmth, joy, and peace throughout the holidays.

If you need guidance with a mortgage, are thinking about buying your next home, or want to list early in the new year, we're here and ready to help.

Ready to start your next chapter in the new year?

Reach out to MetroYEG, your trusted mortgage and real estate team in Edmonton.

As we move into the final month of 2025, Edmonton’s real estate market continues to show a blend of seasonal cooling and strong pricing trends. Here’s a breakdown of how the market performed for the week ending December 3, 2025.

Unit Sales

Edmonton recorded 358 unit sales this week — a 16% decrease compared to last week. While a drop in sales is typical as winter approaches, activity remains steady overall, indicating buyers are still engaged despite the seasonal slowdown.

New Listings

There were 457 new listings brought to market, which is 6% lower than last week. This tightening in new inventory may contribute to reduced selection for buyers over the coming weeks, particularly in popular price brackets.

Average Price

The average sale price climbed to $471,000, marking an 8% increase week-over-week. This reflects continued strength in Edmonton’s mid- to upper-market segments, as well as demand for well-updated homes across the city.

Median Price

The median price rose to $434,000, up 4% from last week. This upward movement signals consistent demand in the mid-range market and may also suggest more balanced activity across property types.

Edmonton’s market is showing classic December trends: fewer listings, fewer sales, but surprisingly resilient prices. Whether you're planning to buy, sell, or simply stay informed, these weekly insights help paint a clear picture of where the market is heading as we close out the year.

Statistics sourced from the REALTORS® Association of Alberta.

By Dr. Sherry Cooper, Chief Economist, Dominion Lending Centres

Canada’s economy delivered an unexpected upside surprise in the third quarter, with GDP expanding at an annualized 2.6%. This marks a sharp rebound from the revised 1.8% decline in the previous quarter and far surpasses the 0.5% growth forecasted by both the Bank of Canada and a Bloomberg survey of economists. It is also the strongest GDP increase Canada has seen so far this year.

A closer look at the data shows several key drivers behind the jump. Imports fell 8.6%, the largest drop since 2022, while exports rose 0.7%, providing a lift to the overall GDP picture. Investment activity also strengthened, rising 2.3%, largely due to a 6.7% increase in residential resales.

Government spending played a surprising role as well. Federal purchases of River-class destroyers drove a 12.2% rise in government capital expenditures, helping offset weaker household spending, which declined 0.4%—its first drop since 2021.

Trade Challenges Continue

Despite the headline GDP growth, Canada’s trade environment remains fragile. Goods and services exports grew only 0.7% in Q3 following a steep 25% decline in Q2 as U.S. tariffs weighed heavily on Canadian trade. Even with higher crude oil and bitumen exports, the country has yet to see meaningful recovery.

Imports also posted a substantial decline, reflecting reduced shipments of unwrought gold, silver, and platinum. Meanwhile, ongoing tariff uncertainty continues to weaken consumer and business confidence.

Domestic Demand Softens

Early signs of broader economic strain are becoming more evident.

• Final domestic demand slipped 0.1%.

• Household consumption fell 0.4%.

• The household saving rate edged up to 4.7%.

Business activity also remains subdued. Private investment in non-residential structures, machinery, and equipment dropped 4.5%, marking the second consecutive quarterly decline. Unlike the U.S., Canada has not yet seen a surge in AI- or data center–related investment. Companies also reduced inventory levels significantly, drawing down $3.95 billion worth of stock.

Bottom Line

While Q3 delivered a better-than-expected performance, the momentum is unlikely to carry into the fourth quarter. Statistics Canada’s early estimate for October shows industrial GDP declining at a -0.3% monthly pace.

Although the 2.25% overnight rate remains stimulative, persistent uncertainty around North American trade negotiations continues to cloud Canada’s economic outlook. With no clarity on whether the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement will be extended beyond this year, Canada may soon find itself facing a major trade policy overhaul—and searching for alternative markets for its exports.

Dr. Sherry Cooper
Chief Economist, Dominion Lending Centres