Looking back, 2020 was an ideal time to buy a home. Prices were lower, and mortgage rates were around 3%. Those who entered the market then have seen significant gains, with home prices rising more than 30% since early 2020.

But if you didn’t buy, does that mean you’ve missed your chance? Not at all. Real estate always increases in value over the long term, but the key is recognizing opportunities when they appear.

And the next opportunity may be just around the corner.

The Market Has Moved—And a Shift Is Coming

Here’s how Canadian home prices have changed since 2020:

Prices increased dramatically from 2020 to 2022, followed by a dip in 2023. However, the market has already started recovering, and the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) forecasts home prices will rise another 3.3% by 2026.

Why 2025 Could Be a Unique Buying Opportunity

Many of the buyers who secured homes at historic low interest rates in 2020 and 2021 will soon be facing mortgage renewals at rates that are double or even triple what they originally paid.

This could result in:

• More homes hitting the market – Some homeowners will no longer be able to carry their mortgages at the new rates and will need to sell.

• Investment properties being offloaded – Many investors purchased rental properties when borrowing was cheap. If these properties no longer generate positive cash flow, some investors may look to sell.

• Greater selection for buyers – More listings in the market could create opportunities for those who have been waiting to enter.

Barbara Corcoran (@barbaracorcoran) has seen these cycles play out before. Her advice remains clear:

“Don't wait to buy real estate. Buy real estate and wait.”

Interest Rates Fluctuate—Real Estate Always Moves Up

Interest rates have been a key factor in buyer hesitation. But history shows that:

• Rates are already lower than their peak. After reaching nearly 6% in late 2023, they have declined to around 4.5% today depending on the lender and mortgage type.

• When rates drop, prices rise. As borrowing becomes more affordable, more buyers enter the market, increasing demand and pushing prices higher.

• Long-term trends show real estate always appreciates. Even after temporary dips, home values recover and surpass previous highs.

"The perfect time to buy a house? When you can afford the down payment—not when you’re waiting for the ‘perfect’ market." — Barbara Corcoran

Where Will the Best Buying Opportunities Be?

For those who missed the low rates of 2020-2021, 2025 could bring new opportunities, including:

• Distressed Sales – Some homeowners renewing at much higher rates may list their homes out of necessity, creating potential buying opportunities.

• Investment Properties for Sale – Properties that no longer generate strong cash flow may be offloaded by investors who purchased during the low-rate environment.

• Suburban and Secondary Markets – With affordability stretched in major cities, smaller markets may see increased inventory and softer pricing.

Play the Long Game—Not the Waiting Game

Real estate is a long-term investment, and those who enter the market sooner rather than later tend to benefit the most.

1. Equity Growth – The longer you own, the more your home appreciates and builds wealth.

2. Market Stability – While short-term fluctuations happen, the long-term trend remains upward.

3. Wealth Creation – Real estate remains one of the best tools for building financial security.

Many buyers in 2020 hesitated, thinking prices would fall. Instead, they increased dramatically. The next opportunity is coming—will you be ready for it?

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Let’s discuss your options before the next wave of buyers enters the market.