If you can’t predict the future with any level of certainty, sometimes you just have to accept the risk and do what you need to for your family.
The Two Minute Market Update is intended to keep readers apprised of what’s going on in local real estate markets and in the global financial markets that affect real estate via inflation, interest rates, capital flows and public policy. It is best suited for those not able to keep up with all the news every day, but still wanting to be informed.
Two Minute Market Update, July 30th, 2025
July has been a seasonally average market for sales activity across the North Shore, with listing numbers holding strong. The entry-level detached house market ($1.6M-$2.1M) has been the busiest component with most of the transactions occurring in this range, as eager upsizers are finally able to get a foothold without competing in multiple offer situations. This is a good time to be a buyer if you can afford the monthly payments and have a sizable down payment with equity from your current home(s). These conditions should persist through the summer and into the fall, as listing counts typically increase further in September/October. There will be opportunities for those with strict budgets to obtain a property from exhausted sellers. Buyers should keep in reserve some budget for remodelling, as the best deals are often involving those in need of improvement.
Both the US Federal Reserve and Bank of Canada will make interest rate decisions on Wednesday, with both expecting to hold rates once again. Inflation concerns in both countries are of importance with last month’s reports showing price growth staying constant. Tariffs will be the main topic this week, as the August 1st “deadline” draws nearer. To sum things up as concisely as possible, consider the below table:
| Inflationary | Deflationary |
| US tariffs increasing costs to consumers/producers | Canadian job losses from tariff-impacted industries |
| US and Canadian Government Deficit Spending | Reduced Canadian population growth |
| Increased building materials and labour costs | Artificial Intelligence replacing high-cost activities |
| Rising raw commodity prices | Overhang of unsold development properties US/Can |
| Weakening US Dollar | Slowing global GDP growth rates |
If you were a central banker, an investment manager, or a bond trader, how would you weigh on the above playing out in the future and what level of certainty would you ascribe to your thesis? They don’t know which way it will tip. So if you are a prospective real estate buyer or seller and are trying to figure out how interest rates (which hinge on all of the above) will affect the market for a house, don’t feel bad if you can’t figure it out either. It’s ok to say you don’t know. This is what many are coming to terms with. If you can’t predict the future with any level of certainty, sometimes you just have to accept the risk and do what you need to for your family.
Stock markets continue pushing to new all-time highs, led by electrical utilities and industrial sectors in the US and mining and materials sectors in Canada. The stock markets are behaving as if the inflationary scenario will win out and push all asset prices higher as governments attempt to monetize their enormous debt levels. If that’s the case, land prices will follow – so it bears watching for real estate market participants.
Bitcoin has been consolidating its most recent gains for the past two weeks but still remains only a few percent away from it’s recent all-time high. Gold has been doing the same for a longer period.
Matthew Stiles
Did you enjoy the market update? Subscribe here to receive them direct to your inbox. Feel free to message me at matt@stilesre.ca or call 778-227-3507 to discuss how the above may affect your largest asset and how to keep me in your corner when it comes to making real estate decisions.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this column is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. While I strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, I make no warranties or representations as to its accuracy, completeness, or reliability. Any actions taken based on this information are at your own risk. Always consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.