Naru Menon’s Blog

BC initiated Budget 2024 consultations, gathering recommendations on housing and related issues. Housing supply and affordability concerns led to suggestions for incentives, better coordination, and data access. Rental housing recommendations included means-tested support, pet-friendly housing, and senior housing improvements.

The perfect opportunity to embrace your inner "foodie" and unbutton your pants at the dinner table!In Canada, post-Thanksgiving is all about creative cranberry sauce solutions. Cranberry sauce pancakes, anyone?It's that time when multiple ovens are a blessing. Turkey, pies, casseroles – less stress!

BC's Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon has confirmed that the province will introduce new legislation in the fall to take a bigger role in addressing short-term rentals. This comes in response to a McGill University study which found that British Columbia's renters are paying 20% more than they should due to the impact of short-term rentals.…

Housing affordability declined in August across Canadian provinces except British Columbia. British Columbia is the only province where affordability improved slightly. Buyers in BC still require ~$200K in annual income to qualify under the federal stress test.

This article reviews the best 10-year fixed rate mortgages in Canada for 2023. We reviewed 100 mortgage lenders that do business both online and in-person throughout Canada, and the lenders we reviewed represent some of the largest mortgage lenders by volume in Canada. Locking in your mortgage at a competitive interest rate for an extended…

RBC reports strong initial interest in the FHSA program for tax-free down payment savings. Since April 1, tens of thousands of Canadians, primarily aged 25-34, have opened FHSA accounts, with 56% being younger clients.

The Bank of Canada has decided not to raise rates in September, but James Laird, co-CEO of Ratehub.ca and CanWise president, believes borrowers cannot afford to be complacent about future interest rates. The Bank has indicated that it is willing to raise rates again if economic indicators do not turn out as expected. Laird advises…

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation honours survivors and raises awareness about their experiences. It's a symbol of Canada's commitment to reconciliation with Indigenous communities. Wearing orange shirts on this day symbolizes respect for survivors and raises awareness about residential schools. May this day inspire a future where every voice is heard, and every spirit…

Experts are divided on the potential impact of the Bank of Canada's (BoC) decision to pause interest rate hikes on the real estate market. During the previous pause, home prices experienced a surge, however, this time around there are factors such as increased inventory, a softer job market, and higher mortgage rates that suggest a…

Landbanking activities are expected to increase. That is because developers aim to expand offerings for the affordable market segment. Also, the property market is likely to witness a rise in merger and acquisition activity.