The Bank of Canada has officially held the overnight rate at 2.25%, keeping the Bank of Canada interest rate stable heading into 2026. For anyone watching the Canada housing market, mortgage trends, or the Toronto real estate market, this announcement brings some much-needed clarity.
Let’s break down how this rate hold affects the Canadian economy, mortgage rates in Canada, and your next real estate move.
Why the Bank of Canada Held the Policy Rate
Global conditions remain uncertain — from US trade protectionism to shifting supply chains — but major economies continue to show resilience.
Here’s the current picture:
• The U.S. economy is growing due to strong spending and AI investment
• Eurozone services remain steady
• China is seeing weaker housing demand
• Global financial conditions, oil prices, and the Canadian dollar remain stable
Here in Canada:
• GDP rose 2.6% in Q3, driven mostly by trade volatility
• Domestic demand was flat, showing consumer caution
• Growth is expected to stay soft into late 2025 before improving in 2026
This “wait-and-see” approach makes the Bank of Canada rate announcement especially important for both buyers and homeowners navigating the Canadian mortgage market.
Inflation Near Target — A Key Factor for Mortgage Rates
Inflation is currently sitting around 2.2%, very close to the 2% target. Gasoline prices dropped, food inflation eased, and core inflation remains between 2.5% and 3%.
This matters for real estate because:
• Stable inflation helps stabilize fixed mortgage rates in Canada
• Lower inflation reduces pressure for future rate hikes
• The Canadian housing market becomes more predictable
The Bank believes the current rate is “about right,” which is supportive for both the GTA real estate market and national housing activity.
Labour Market Trends and What They Mean for Buyers
Employment grew steadily for the past three months, bringing unemployment down to 6.5%. However, trade-sensitive sectors remain weak, and overall hiring intentions are still cautious.
For homebuyers, a stabilizing job market supports:
• Housing affordability
• Mortgage qualification
• Confidence in moving forward with home purchases
This is especially relevant for anyone thinking about buying in the Toronto housing market, Durham Region, or the GTA real estate market.
What the Rate Hold Means for Mortgages & Real Estate
Here’s the part that impacts your wallet and your next move 👇
1. Mortgage Rates Remain Stable
A rate hold means:
• Variable mortgage rates stay the same
• Fixed mortgage rates may remain steady, depending on bond yields
• Lenders get more certainty about future pricing
This is good news for anyone hoping for stability before making a move.
2. Better Planning for Homebuyers
With the Bank of Canada interest rate unchanged, buyers can plan:
• Monthly mortgage budgets
• Long-term affordability
• Entry timing into the Canada housing market 2025–2026
This is particularly helpful if you’ve been waiting for predictable mortgage rates Canada.
3. Balanced Real Estate Market Conditions
Sellers benefit too:
• More confident buyers
• Clearer expectations
• Stronger activity across the GTA real estate market
No one likes uncertainty — a stable rate supports a healthier, more balanced market.
4. What to Watch Heading Into 2026
Questions homeowners are already asking:
• Will mortgage rates go down in 2026?
• Is 2025 a good time to buy a home in Canada?
• How will inflation impact the housing market?
The Bank expects modest economic growth next year, and if inflation stays under control, we could see more positive movement in rates.
Final Thoughts
The Bank of Canada’s decision to hold the overnight rate at 2.25% gives Canadians a more stable environment during a time of global uncertainty. Whether you're buying, selling, refinancing, or just tracking the Canadian housing market, this rate hold provides much-needed clarity.
If you want to understand how this affects your personal buying power or mortgage strategy, I’m always here to help — and you can find even more insights in this blog right on my website.
From Loan to Home — Your Trusted Path to Ownership. 🏡