February 2026 Real Estate Newsletter

We are only happy when we forecast something that actually comes to pass, AND it is positive. The majority of real estate analysts and industry pundits had no problem forecasting what was likely to be revealed about the Toronto and Region residential resale market in January, and sadly, they got it right. But no one is happy.

Toronto's real estate market began 2026 with a challenging January, marking one of the slowest months in nearly three decades. Chris Kapches, CEO of Chestnut Park Real Estate, reviews the latest data, providing insight into sales activity, pricing trends, and market dynamics across condos and detached homes. Click the video above for the full break down.

1052 Rat Bay Rd 105-10, Lake of Bays
FOR SALE $13,000

Blue Water Acres has almost 50 acres of Muskoka paradise and 300 feet of south-facing frontage on Lake of Bays. This is NOT a timeshare; you actually own a share of the cottage that you buy which includes a share in the entire complex. This gives you the right to use the cottage Interval for five weeks per year including one fixed core summer week plus 4 more floating weeks in the other seasons.

It was such a pleasure working with Susan. She quickly understood our needs and never showed us a house that wasn't suitable. She communicated clearly and responded to our texts and emails promptly. While being very warm and friendly, she was also always very professional. Her years of experience made the negotiation process smooth - and successful. It certainly paid off working with an agent who knows the area so well. We heartily encourage you to use Susan to find the property of your dreams.

~ Cathy Fairley

From Lakeside Listings to Lifelong Lessons: Reflections on a Career in Muskoka

Over the 36 years I've been a full-time Realtor in the Huntsville and Lake of Bays area, I've witnessed extraordinary change — not just in real estate, but in how we live, work, and connect. Click the button below to hear my full story, featured on the Chestnut Park blog.

Bank Of Canada Holds Interest Rate Steady In First 2026 Announcement

The Bank of Canada held its policy rate at 2.25%, following a series of cuts in 2025 that brought the benchmark overnight rate to its current level. Leading up to the announcement, many major Canadian banks — including RBC, TD, and CIBC — came into 2026 expecting the Bank to maintain a steady policy stance.

Rental market swings back in tenants' favour with lower prices and move-in incentives

Landlords across Canada are increasingly dangling incentives and other common perks like free parking, waived pet fees and moving allowances, to compete for new tenants. After a post-pandemic surge in rental costs, real estate watchers say the scales have tipped back in favour of renters amid falling prices, higher vacancy rates, and uncertainty in the housing market overall.

35 Designer-Approved Kitchen Wall Decor Ideas That Will Liven Up Your Cooking Space

Crafting a design-forward kitchen takes skill. As you shop for appliances like refrigerators and determine what island layout looks best, you need to know how and when to balance practicality with looks.

6 Must-Know Furniture Trends That Will Define 2026

What will define and shape the way we live at home this year? Furniture trends 2026 reward shopping with your eyes open, carrying more of the design load. Sofas are getting cushier, materials are mixing in unexpected ways, and scale is all over the map. These choices can say more about a room than paint or hardware ever will.