The June 23 poll found that 75 percent of respondents said economic uncertainty is making them more cautious about buying a home, while 67 percent said they are concerned the economy could affect their home-buying plans.
The poll of 1,753 Canadians found that many respondents are split on whether it is a “buyers“ market or a “sellers” market. While 27 percent said it was a good time to buy, 36 percent said it was a better time to sell.
The answers also revealed a regional divide, with people in Quebec and Atlantic Canada more likely to say it’s a “sellers“ market, and those in British Columbia and Ontario more likely to call it a ”buyers” market.
About 45 percent of those who are likely to buy a home within two years said now was the best time to buy. A total of 58 percent said lower home prices would allow them to buy a home, while 54 percent said interest rates of 2.25 percent would give them the opportunity.
However, 71 percent of those intending to buy a home soon said inflation is preventing them from saving more for the purchase. A total of 69 percent had been forced to delay major purchases, 62 percent had put off vacationing, and 60 percent had changed their spending and saving habits.
Among all poll respondents, 78 percent said they believe home ownership requires more sacrifices today than in previous generations, and 74 percent said most homebuyers will experience some level of financial shock when buying their first home.
The average house price in Canada rose from $532,000 at the start of 2020 to $802,000 in 2022, but had fallen to around $658,000 by May 2026. Canada’s population rose by more than 3 million from 2020 to 2025, increasing pressure on housing across the country. The Liberal government began lowering its target immigration levels in 2024.
