The Teranet-National Bank Composite Index^™ continued its correction for a fourth consecutive month in January, with prices down 0.3% on a seasonally adjusted basis compared with December. It should be noted, however, that the drop in the composite index in January was due solely to lower prices in two major cities where affordability remains a major issue, namely Vancouver and Toronto. As a result, house prices across the country are now 3.7% below their April 2022 peak. However, renewed activity in the resale market raises the question of whether this weakness will persist. This rebound in transactions is taking place against a backdrop of strong demand due to exceptional demographic growth and the reduction in mortgage interest rates since October. Moreover, in a context where the lack of housing supply remains problematic, the end of Bank of Canada rate hikes and potential rate cuts have reduced uncertainty and offered a window of opportunity to some buyers. It remains to be seen whether this upturn will be long-lasting, given that we expect the labour market to experience further difficulties later this year.

February 2024