Home Trends From Ernie Ward

Experience the Difference that comes with Experience ERNIE WARD Broker 416.460.3592

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101 - 2691 Credit Valley Rd. Mississauga, ON L5M 7A1

Ernie Ward

RATES ARE ON HOLD. NOW WHAT? The Bank of Canada has held its policy rate at 2.25%, keeping borrowing costs unchanged as Canadians head into the fall real estate market. But what does that actually mean if you’re thinking about buying a home? For buyers, the decision provides some stability. Variable-rate mortgage holders won’t see an immediate change tied to the Bank’s decision while fixed mortgage rates continue to be influenced by bond markets and broader economic conditions. The Bank is balancing a recovering Canadian economy against renewed inflation pressures and uncertainty surrounding international trade. Inflation has moved higher which could make future rate cuts less certain. For prospective buyers, this creates an opportunity to focus less on trying to “time” the next rate move and more on affordability, monthly payments and long-term goals. With borrowing costs more stable than they were during the peak-rate environment, buyers may have more confidence entering the market. However, the right decision will depend on individual circumstances and local housing conditions. Don’t wait for the perfect rate. Make sure the home, price and financing strategy make sense for you today. Thinking about buying this fall? Let’s talk about what today’s market could mean for your budget and your next move. Reach out for a personalized conversation about your options.

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Ernie Ward

SMALL LUXURIES THAT MAKE EVERYDAY LIFE BETTER Luxury at home does not have to mean expensive furniture or a major renovation. Sometimes, it is the small things that make everyday life feel a little more comfortable and enjoyable. Think about the things you use every day. A soft, oversized throw can make your favourite chair even more inviting. Fresh, fluffy towels can make an ordinary shower feel a little more indulgent. A beautiful mug can make your morning coffee feel like a treat rather than just another part of the routine. Small upgrades can also be practical. Replace a worn-out kitchen towel, add a dimmer lamp to a reading corner or choose a lovely hand soap for the kitchen and bathroom. Fresh flowers, a favourite candle or a diffuser with a scent you enjoy can also change the atmosphere of a room. The best part is that these little luxuries do not require a bigger home or a bigger budget. They are simply about noticing what makes you feel good and giving those everyday moments a little more attention. Your home should work for you, but it should also be a place you enjoy coming home to.

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Ernie Ward

WHY IS THAT ONE ROOM ALWAYS COLD? Many households have that one room that is noticeably cooler than the rest of the home. Blocked venting, uneven heating, air leaks, poor insulation, ductwork problems, drafty windows or differences in exposure to outdoor temperatures, could be the cause. Before turning up the thermostat for the entire home, check the simple causes first. Uneven temperatures can have several causes, including airflow problems, drafts, insulation issues or broader heating and ventilation concerns. Start with airflow. Make sure supply and return vents are open and not blocked by furniture, rugs or other items. Then check for drafts. Take a quick walk around exterior doors and windows. A chilly spot near a window, door or exterior wall may indicate a drafty leak. If the room is consistently cold along an exterior wall, insulation could also be a factor. Finding the cause is more useful than simply increasing the heat. Check vents, filters, doors, windows, drafts and insulation before assuming the heating system needs a major repair. If the problem continues or you notice a larger issue, a qualified professional can help identify the cause.

705.561.2724 • mauro@sudburyliving.com • www.sudburyliving.com Call or Text 416.460.3592 to find out about my FREE market evaluation

Ernie Ward

GRILL VS. CHILL: PREPPING YOUR BBQ FOR WINTER When that first frost comes your way, it may be time to winterize your BBQ. Some homeowners enjoy grilling well into the colder months while others prefer to clean the grill and put it away until spring. Either choice can work, but colder weather makes preparation more important. Before the first heavy frost, give your BBQ a seasonal check so it is clean, protected and ready for whatever you decide to do. Clear food residue and grease, then inspect burners, hoses, connections and igniter for damage. Cleaning helps find small issues early saving time later. Make sure parts are secure and nothing looks cracked, loose or badly worn. For storage, protect your grill from moisture with a weather-resistant cover, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Clean and dry the grill first, as moisture can be trapped. Whether taking a winter break or grilling year-round, proper prep including cleaning, inspection and storing is essential before that cold weather hits.

Experience the Difference that comes with Experience

Ernie Ward

GTA REALTORS ® RELEASE AUGUST STATS OAKVILLE MISSISSAUGA

AVG. SALE PRICE Detached $1,787,896

AVG. SALE PRICE Condo/Townhouse $602,353

AVG. SALE PRICE Detached $1,275,221

AVG. SALE PRICE Condo/Townhouse $706,892

ACTIVE LISTINGS 957

DAYS ON MARKET 39

ACTIVE LISTINGS 2,361

DAYS ON MARKET 36

GTA, ON (Sept. 2026) – The number of homes available for sale in August 2026 was down noticeably compared to last year in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Following this trend, home sales also edged lower, as the number of transactions was arguably limited by less choice in some neighbourhoods. Less choice and more competition between buyers could ultimately result in renewed price growth in the months ahead. GTA REALTORS® reported 5,057 home sales through TRREB’s MLS® System in August 2026 – down 2.1 per cent compared to August 2025. New listings entered into the MLS® System amounted to 12,075 – down by 14.1 per cent year-over-year. “If inventory tightens and home prices begin to rise, some buyers may face a trade-off between waiting for greater economic certainty and purchasing before prices move higher. At the same time, improving market conditions for sellers could bring more listings to market, providing buyers with additional choice,” said Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB) President Daniel Steinfeld. The MLS® Home Price Index (MLS® HPI) Composite benchmark was down by 4.5 per cent year over-year in August 2026. The average selling price, at $993,410, was down by 2.7 per cent. Source: Toronto Regional Real Estate Board | Market values stated are of the average of Toronto and surrounding region. Individual home market values will vary and are affected by factors such as location, size, interior and exterior condition. Please call to get an up-to-date evaluation of your home.

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