Central bank releases summary of deliberations as markets closely watch for clues on future cuts

By Jonalyn Cueto

14 Aug. 2025

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Newly released deliberations from the Bank of Canada (BoC) reveal that policymakers debated last month whether the central bank’s benchmark interest rate is already low enough to help the economy withstand escalating US tariffs.

The summary of discussions, published Wednesday, covers the lead-up to the BoC’s July 30 decision to keep its policy rate at 2.75%. According to the documents, some members of the governing council questioned if previous rate cuts – seven in a row from June 2024 to March 2025 – had already provided “sufficient support” to guide the economy through its current trade challenges.

Governor Tiff Macklem told reporters after the decision that the bank remains “ready to respond to new information,” particularly developments in Canada-US trade.

Impact of US tariffs still emerging

The rate decision came days before US president Donald Trump increased base tariffs on Canadian goods to 35%, exempting products compliant with the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA).

While early indicators pointed to resilience – including steady household spending and business investment in the first quarter – BoC members warned that much of the strength was due to companies and exporters moving purchases forward to avoid tariff costs, a temporary effect.

“Given the lagged effects of monetary policy, there was a risk that further easing might take effect only as demand was recovering, which could add to price pressures,” the deliberations state.

Inflation pressures “modest so far”

The bank said it does not expect a sharp rise in inflation directly from US tariffs. Early price effects have been “modest,” though risks remain elevated as businesses adapt supply chains and potentially pass on higher costs.

Deliberations from June 4 show the council was already grappling with a complex economic picture: a Canadian dollar up 4%, a cooling labour market – especially in trade-sensitive industries – and inflationary pressures in services and goods. At that time, core inflation was running above 3%, with members debating whether the increase reflected one-off factors or persistent cost pressures.

September decision looms

The BoC will receive July and August inflation figures before its next rate announcement on September 17.

Some forecasters expect no further rate cuts this year, while others argue that additional easing may be warranted if labour market weakness deepens and inflation remains contained.

For now, the central bank says it will proceed cautiously – balancing the need to support growth with its mandate to keep prices stable.

🔎 Blog Summary from our own @mortgagewithchar

The Bank of Canada debated cutting rates in July but ultimately held steady at 2.75%. Policymakers felt seven prior cuts since mid-2024 may already be providing enough support, especially as the economy adjusts to new US tariffs.

Key takeaways:

• US tariffs: Recently increased to 35% on some Canadian goods, creating uncertainty.

• Economic signals: Household spending and business investment look steady but may be temporarily inflated by companies rushing purchases ahead of tariffs.

• Inflation: Still modest overall, though service and goods prices are showing pressure.

• Labour market: Weakening, particularly in trade-sensitive industries.

• What’s next: The BoC is watching July and August inflation data closely. Next rate decision lands September 17.

Bottom line: The BoC is cautious. No guarantee of more cuts, but they’re keeping the door open depending on how inflation and jobs hold up.  

If you’re moving, you’ve probably asked: should I buy first or sell first? The answer depends on your budget, risk tolerance, and local market conditions.

Buying First — Pros

• More time to find your dream home.

• Seamless move without interim housing.

Buying First — Cons

• Risk of paying two mortgages.

• Pressure to sell quickly after buying.

Selling First — Pros

• You know exactly what you can afford.

• No risk of double mortgages.

Selling First — Cons

• May need temporary housing.

• Limited time to find your next home.

The Middle Ground: Bridge Financing

This short-term loan lets you buy before selling, giving you breathing room.

Final Word:
Your move should work around your life — not the other way around. Let’s chat about the option that makes the most sense for you.

Top 10 Staging Tips to Sell Your Home for More

Selling your home isn’t just about square footage — it’s about how it feels to buyers. Here’s how to make your home shine.

1. Declutter Like You’re Moving Tomorrow

If you’re not using it daily, pack it up. Bonus: you’ll be ahead for moving day.

2. Light It Up

Natural light is your best friend. Open blinds, swap heavy drapes for sheer ones, and turn on lamps.

3. Go Neutral (But Not Boring)

Think soft whites, beiges, or greys — then add pops of colour with pillows or art.

4. Create a Focal Point

A fireplace, a piece of art, or a statement light fixture can make a room memorable.

5. Add Greenery

Plants and fresh flowers add instant life.

6. Refresh the Front Entrance

This is your first impression — make it count with a tidy porch and a fresh welcome mat.

7. Make the Bedroom Feel Like a Hotel

Crisp bedding, fluffed pillows, and clutter-free nightstands.

8. Edit Furniture

Less is more. Remove oversized or extra pieces to make rooms feel bigger.

9. Show Off Storage

Neatly organized closets say “plenty of space!”

10. Subtle Scents

Fresh-baked cookies are cliché for a reason — it works.

Final Word:
With the right staging, you’re not just selling a house — you’re selling a lifestyle. And yes, I can help you pull it all together.

Ah, fall in Waterloo Region. The leaves change, pumpkin spice takes over every coffee shop, and sellers start asking one question: “Should I list my home now or wait until spring?”

Here’s the truth — fall can be an incredible time to sell, especially if you know how to make your home shine in cooler weather. With the right prep, your listing can grab attention, sell quickly, and maybe even spark a friendly neighbourhood bidding war.

This guide walks you through the must-do’s for getting your home market-ready this season.

1. Boost Your Fall Curb Appeal

First impressions are everything. In fall, your yard can either say “cozy and inviting” or “we stopped trying after Labour Day.”

• Clear the leaves regularly so your lawn looks neat in listing photos.

• Add fall planters with mums, ornamental kale, or small pumpkins for a warm vibe.

• Power wash the front steps and walkway to remove dirt and stains.

• Check exterior lighting — shorter days mean more showings after dark.

💡 Pro tip: A new doormat is a small investment that screams “Welcome home” in every showing.

2. Light It Up Inside

Fall’s shorter days mean less natural light for buyers touring your home.

• Use higher-wattage bulbs in main living areas.

• Add lamps to dark corners for a warm, inviting glow.

• Open blinds and curtains for maximum daylight during showings.

3. Create a Cozy Atmosphere

Buyers want to feel at home, and fall is perfect for leaning into that cozy vibe.

• Throw blankets on sofas or chairs in neutral tones.

• Lightly scented candles in cinnamon or vanilla (nothing overpowering).

• Seasonal décor in moderation — think tasteful, not Halloween haunted house.

4. Handle Seasonal Maintenance Now

A home inspection will catch these issues, so get ahead of them:

• Clean gutters to prevent water damage.

• Service the furnace and replace filters.

• Check caulking around windows and doors for drafts.

• Inspect the roof for missing shingles or damage after summer storms.

5. Stage for the Season

Fall staging is all about warmth and comfort:

• Swap bright summer pillows for warm-toned textiles like rust, mustard, or deep green.

• Use area rugs to make large rooms feel more intimate.

• Showcase multi-use spaces (that spare room can be staged as a cozy reading nook).

6. Professional Photography Is a Must

Fall light is beautiful but tricky — professional photographers know how to capture it. The right angles, lighting, and editing can make your home stand out even more against vibrant autumn backdrops.

Why Selling in Fall Works in Waterloo Region

• Motivated buyers: Many are eager to close before year-end.

• Less competition: Fewer listings mean yours can shine brighter.

• Beautiful backdrops: Autumn colours make for stunning photos and showings.

📲 Thinking of selling this fall? Let’s create your personalized sale strategy. Call Charlotte at 519-575-1804, and let’s get your home market-ready.

Your offer’s been accepted — cue the happy dance! 🎉 But between now and move-in day, there are still a few important steps. Let’s break it down.

1. Deposit & Paperwork

Once your offer is accepted, you’ll submit your deposit (usually within 24 hours) and your REALTOR® will make sure all paperwork is signed, sealed, and delivered.

2. Home Inspection

If your offer included an inspection, this is when you’ll bring in the pros to double-check for any hidden issues.

3. Finalizing Your Mortgage

Your lender will review the property details, your paperwork, and your financials to give the final thumbs-up.

4. Lawyer’s Work

Your lawyer will handle the title search, prepare documents, and make sure everything is ready for closing day.

5. Closing Day

Funds are transferred, the deed is registered, and you get the keys. Sometimes this happens mid-day, sometimes at 5 PM — it’s all part of the process.

Final Word:
The process can feel overwhelming, but I’ll be there for every call, every update, and every “what does this mean?” moment — all the way to your new front door.

Finding your dream home is exciting, but here’s the truth — even the prettiest house can feel “meh” if the neighbourhood isn’t a good fit. So, how do you spot a great neighbourhood before you move in? Here are my go-to tricks.

1. Visit at Different Times of Day

Morning school drop-offs and Friday night hangouts tell different stories. Swing by early, mid-day, and after dark to see the real vibe.

2. Check the Vibe

Are people out walking dogs? Are kids riding bikes? Or does it feel like a ghost town? The little things can tell you a lot about how friendly and active the area is.

3. Talk to Locals

If you see a neighbour gardening or someone walking their dog, say hi. Most people will happily give you the scoop on what’s great (and what’s not) about living there.

4. Look for Future Development Plans

That empty field could be a future park… or a massive retail development. Check the city’s planning department for projects in the works.

5. Test Your Commute

Google Maps is your new best friend. Pop in the address at rush hour to see how long you’ll really spend on the road.

Final Word:
Finding the right neighbourhood is just as important as finding the right house. I can help you check both off your list — and yes, I know all the secret pockets of Waterloo Region worth exploring.

An uptick in activity could be the start of a broader recovery, according to a new market analysis

By Jonalyn Cueto

11 Aug. 2025

A new report from RBC Economics indicates that confidence is slowly improving across Canada’s housing markets, with home sales gaining momentum as earlier economic fears begin to fade. However, the recovery has not been enough to stabilize falling prices in affordability-challenged areas where a high volume of inventory has accumulated.

According to early reports from local real estate boards for July, the MLS Home Price Index continued its decline in the Toronto and Vancouver areas, as well as other Southern Ontario and Lower Mainland markets. These are regions where active listings have reached historically high levels, and buyers are facing stretched affordability.

While the increase in resales is helping to rebalance supply and demand, it has yet to ease the downward pressure on prices. In the Toronto area, for example, home resales jumped 13% from June and 10.9% annually, but the MLS HPI still fell 5.4% from a year ago. Similarly, Vancouver’s MLS HPI was down 2.7% in July year-over-year.

In contrast, prices have remained comparatively stronger in most markets across the Prairies, Quebec, and the Atlantic regions, supported by tight supply-demand conditions. The July data reveals that home resales increased in Calgary, Edmonton, Regina, and Saskatoon, building on gains made in June. The report notes that while Calgary’s composite MLS HPI fell 3.9% from a year ago, the price adjustment is expected to be short-lived as supply and demand are considered to be largely in balance.

Overall, the report suggests that a broad market recovery is expected to get back on track across Canada as confidence builds further. While diverging price trends are likely to continue for the foreseeable future, RBC Economics analysts project that these trends could narrow later this year or next.

The rebound in sales activity is viewed as a crucial step toward rebalancing the market and eventually easing the downward pressure on prices, especially in the country’s most expensive metropolitan areas.

What are your thoughts on the recent findings? Share your insights in the comments below.