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Real Estate News • October 29, 2025

A Step in the Right Direction For Housing as Bank of Canada Lowers Rates to 2.25 Percent

by Coldwell Banker Canada

What the Second Consecutive Rate Cut Means for Homeowners, Buyers, and Agents

October 29, 2025 – The Bank of Canada lowered its key interest rate by another 25 basis points today, bringing the overnight lending rate to 2.25%. This marks the second cut in as many months as the central bank works to support an economy showing signs of slower growth and rising unemployment.

While the move is welcome news for homeowners with variable-rate mortgages or renewals on the horizon, experts say it may not be enough to spark a major upswing in home sales just yet.

“This is a step in the right direction,” explains Karim Kennedy, CEO of Coldwell Banker Canada. “The cut sends a signal that the Bank of Canada is aware of the pressures Canadians are facing, especially homeowners with renewals coming up in 2026. It provides some breathing room, but it is not a magic wand. Affordability challenges remain, and the market is still adjusting to a new normal.”

The Bank’s latest Monetary Policy Report projects that inflation will stay close to 2%, with growth improving slowly through 2026. The central bank also noted that new United States tariffs are reshaping Canada’s economy and creating added uncertainty for businesses and consumers.

Even so, the rate cut alone may not change the pace of the housing market. According to Rates.ca, a 25 basis point decrease saves about $15 dollars per $100,000 dollars of mortgage in monthly payments. That helps, but it is only a modest improvement.

“For buyers who have been waiting for a sign of stability, this is it,” Kennedy says. “Confidence matters. Even a small rate cut can shift the psychology of the market. It reminds people that borrowing costs have likely peaked, and that can bring some buyers back to the table, especially in balanced or more affordable markets.”

In many parts of the country, prices are down between 10 and 20% from their pandemic highs, but there is still a gap between housing prices and wages. Kennedy points out that for financially ready buyers, this may be an opportunity to act while competition is lower and inventory remains healthy.

What it means for homeowners and sellers

For existing homeowners, today’s cut offers a little relief on variable rate payments and a signal that stability is returning. With approximately 1.8 million mortgages set for renewal in the next 12 months, many households will feel modest rate relief as welcome news.

“For sellers, this is the time to stay patient and strategic,” Kennedy noted. “There is more activity than there was six months ago, but buyers remain careful. Homes that are priced correctly and presented well are selling. The market is moving, just at a steadier pace.”

Realtors across the Coldwell Banker Canada network are also reporting more inquiries from pre-approved buyers who had been waiting for signs that the tide was turning.

Looking ahead

The Bank of Canada has indicated that this level of interest rates may be “about right” for balancing inflation control and economic support. That could mean the next few months bring a pause rather than another immediate cut.

Real Estate News • October 17, 2025

Canadian Home Sales Ease After Five-Month Climb, But Confidence Remains High

by Coldwell Banker Canada
Canada housing market 2025

Canada’s housing market finds its rhythm, with steady demand, stable prices, and growing confidence heading into 2026.

After five months of steady gains, Canada’s housing market took a brief pause in September. National home sales slipped 1.7% compared to August, yet activity remained 5.2% above September 2024. It was the strongest September since 2021, a sign that buyer confidence and long-term demand remain steady.

Sales slowed in several major markets, including Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Ottawa, and Montreal, while Toronto and Winnipeg posted gains that helped balance national numbers. After months of strong activity, a brief cooling period is not unexpected.

“This is a healthy recalibration, not a reversal,” said Karim Kennedy, Chief Executive Officer of Coldwell Banker Canada. “We are seeing the market settle into more sustainable patterns. That stability gives both buyers and sellers the confidence to move forward with clarity rather than urgency.”

Balanced Conditions Hold

On the supply side, new listings eased by less than 1% while inventory held steady at 4.4 months of supply, the lowest since January, but still within long-term averages. The national sales-to-new listings ratio remained near 51%, reinforcing balanced conditions across most regions.

“Buyers have more options than they did earlier in the year, and sellers who price correctly are achieving strong outcomes,” explained Hashim Arthur, Chief Operating Officer of Coldwell Banker Canada. “What we are seeing now is a market that rewards good strategy and preparation rather than pure timing.”

There were just under 200,000 homes listed for sale at the end of September, about 7.5% higher than last year and in line with historical norms. The additional supply is giving buyers more space to make informed decisions and reducing the pressure that defined earlier market cycles.

Prices Steady as Market Normalizes

The national MLS Home Price Index was virtually unchanged in September, down only 0.1% from August and 3.4% lower than a year ago. The national average sale price was $676,154, up 0.7% from September 2024.

That small increase reflects a market that has largely found its footing. Higher-priced cities such as Toronto and Vancouver continue to stabilize after deeper corrections, while more affordable regions in the Prairies and Atlantic Canada are showing modest gains.

A Season of Opportunity

The transition from rapid growth to balanced conditions is creating new opportunities for both consumers and the real estate industry. Buyers can now approach the market with less competition, while sellers can plan with more predictability.

“For buyers, this is a chance to make decisions with confidence rather than pressure,” noted Kennedy. “And for sellers, success now depends less on speed and more on how well your home is positioned and marketed.”

For brokers and agents, balance brings a different kind of opportunity. “When the market evens out, relationships matter most,” emphasized Paul Abbott, National Vice President of Franchise Sales for Coldwell Banker Canada. “This is when local expertise, professionalism, and guidance truly stand out. Brokers who invest in supporting their agents and helping them grow are the ones who will build lasting success.”

Looking Ahead

With interest rates stabilizing and consumer confidence improving, the final months of 2025 are expected to remain steady. Pent-up demand continues to surface as Canadians adjust to more normal borrowing conditions and look to make long-delayed moves.

Arthur sees this moment as one of optimism and perspective. “The conversation is shifting from what was lost during the market correction to what is possible now. Buyers, sellers, and agents alike are realizing that a balanced market isn’t a pause in progress. It’s the foundation for the next stage of growth.”

As Canada’s housing market prepares to close out the year, that foundation looks solid. Stability, strategy, and confidence are replacing volatility, setting the stage for a strong start to 2026.

Culture • Our News • Press Releases • October 8, 2025

North of Extraordinary Celebrates How Canadians Experience The Feeling of Home

by Coldwell Banker Canada

Coldwell Banker Canada, proudly Canadian-owned and community-focused, believes every home has a story worth telling. 

You see more than a house. We do too.

Every home tells a story. It’s the corner of the kitchen where the dog bowl lives, the pencil marks on the doorframe that quietly record the years, and the sound of hallway giggles as kids race through the house.

Buying or selling a home isn’t just about square footage or market trends. It’s about protecting those memories while creating space for new ones. For many Canadians, this journey can feel overwhelming. The question at the heart of it all: Who can I trust to guide me through one of life’s biggest transitions?

Whether it’s a first condo in the big city or a family home filled with decades of memories, every move carries both financial weight and deep emotional significance.

Leading the way for consumers is Coldwell Banker Canada, whose 3,000 agents nationwide believe that trust is built through local expertise and a deep understanding of what home truly means. Since 1989, the company has developed a strong network and a reputation for guiding Canadians through the complexities of buying and selling homes, combining national strength with neighbourhood-level insight to create a personal and trusted real estate experience. Today, with a Canada-first approach and Canadian ownership, Coldwell Banker Canada continues to grow while staying deeply connected to the communities it serves and helping Canadians move forward with confidence

“Canadian real estate is not one market, it is dozens of local markets that move differently,” says Karim Kennedy, CEO of Coldwell Banker Canada. “Being Canadian-owned and operated means we are making decisions here, for Canadians, with their realities in mind.”

That distinction matters in an industry where many national brands take their direction from outside the country. Coldwell Banker Canada sees its independence as a way to stay closer to what buyers and sellers actually experience, from navigating changing markets in Toronto to capitalizing on continued demand for properties in smaller towns.

 

In celebration of their approach to real estate, Coldwell Banker Canada launched North of Extraordinary™, a national platform that asks Canadians to look at home not as a property, but as a place where life happens. At its heart, it aims to capture moments Canadians know well: the scrape of skates on a backyard rink, snow boots drying by the door after the first storm, mismatched chairs pulled to the table for Thanksgiving, or towels hanging on the porch after a summer swim at the lake.

“The idea behind North of Extraordinary is simple,” explains Shane Supernova, Brand Marketing Manager with Coldwell Banker Canada. “It’s about pausing to appreciate the moments that turn four walls, a roof, and a front door into a home. It’s the laughter, the milestones, even the chaos. Those are the things that make a house extraordinary.”

By focusing on the feelings tied to home, such as belonging, pride, and continuity, the platform reflects a belief that the company says defines its network: that real estate is about people first and the trust that guides them through one of life’s biggest decisions.

“For most people, buying or selling a home is the single biggest decision of their lives,” Hashim Arthur, Chief Operating Officer, Coldwell Banker Canada, explains. “Our role is to make sure they have the guidance and confidence to navigate that with clarity.”

Arthur emphasizes that professionalism and accountability are not optional in today’s market. “Trust is the foundation of real estate,” he notes, “Canadians deserve agents who are accountable, professional, and connected to their communities. That is what we work on every single day.”

That focus on trust has also been recognized by Canadians themselves. Through its Ultimate Service program, Coldwell Banker Canada has earned a 98 percent client satisfaction rating from more than 95,000 Canadian buyers and sellers, a level of satisfaction the company says is unmatched in the industry.

Beyond expertise, he adds, it is the community connection that makes the difference. “When you work with a Coldwell Banker Canada agent, you are working with someone who knows the schools, the parks, the history of the neighbourhood, because they live there too. That local insight is what helps buyers and sellers feel confident they are making the right move.”

This focus on trust is what helps consumers look beyond the noise of market headlines. “The truth is, no two moves are the same. What we can promise is that our agents show up with the expertise, the care, and the resources to help families move forward.”

Coldwell Banker Canada has been steadily expanding its presence, welcoming new brokerages from the Northwest Territories to Atlantic Canada. But Kennedy says growth isn’t about numbers alone.

“For us, growth isn’t about planting more signs in more lawns,” he says. “It’s about building a culture Canadians can rely on. We want brokerages and agents who see real estate as a calling to serve, not just a business to run.”

That approach has helped Coldwell Banker Canada post net positive agent growth at a time when many competitors are contracting. For consumers, it means having access to a network of professionals who combine local expertise with national support.

Behind the scenes, the company’s leadership says it is investing in tools, training, and support to raise the bar for agents and, by extension, the experience of buyers and sellers. But at its core, the message is simple: Coldwell Banker Canada is Canadian-owned, rooted in Canadian communities, and focused on the people who call them home.

“Wherever your next move takes you,” Kennedy says, “Whether it is a first condo, a family home, or a quiet place to start a new chapter, Coldwell Banker Canada is already there, helping Canadians turn houses into homes. That is what North of Extraordinary means.”

Thinking about making your next move?
Connect with your local Coldwell Banker Canada community brokerage here. 

Real Estate News • September 16, 2025

Canadian Home Sales Climb for Fifth Straight Month as Market Momentum Builds

by Coldwell Banker Canada

Canada’s housing market finds its footing with five straight months of sales growth, rising inventory, stable prices, and cautious optimism for the fall

The Canadian housing market continued its late spring rebound through August, with national home sales rising 1.1% compared to July. This marks the fifth straight month of increasing activity and adds up to a 12.5% gain in transactions since the slowdown in March. August also delivered the strongest sales result for this time of year since 2021. Compared to last year, actual sales were up 1.9%, showing a modest improvement over August 2024.

Sales Up Nationally, Led by Montreal and Vancouver

According to the Canadian Real Estate Association, much of the growth came from Montreal, Greater Vancouver, and Ottawa. These gains were enough to offset a small decline in the Greater Toronto Area. Toronto has been the main driver of national sales increases for much of the year, so a brief pause is not unexpected. The encouraging sign is that other major cities are now picking up steam.

“This five-month upswing in sales is giving buyers and sellers new confidence heading into the fall,” noted Karim Kennedy, Chief Executive Officer of Coldwell Banker Canada. “We are seeing strong momentum in markets like Montreal and Vancouver, showing that the recovery isn’t limited to one region. Canadians are adjusting to the current interest rate environment, and our Coldwell Banker agents are helping clients navigate these opportunities with confidence.”

Overall, activity has been steadily gaining strength since the spring. Many buyers who had been waiting on the sidelines during the quieter winter and early spring are gradually returning to the market.

More Sellers Return as New Listings Rise

Sellers have responded to the uptick in sales by listing more homes. Nearly 76,000 properties came onto the market in August, a 2.6% increase from July and about 6% higher than a year ago. Because new supply rose faster than sales, the sales-to-new-listings ratio eased slightly to 51.2% compared to 52% in July.

That ratio means roughly half of all new listings are selling, a sign of balanced conditions. Buyers have more choice than they did in the spring, while demand remains strong enough to keep pace.

Inventory Lowest Since January, Yet Balanced

At the end of August, Canada had 4.4 months of inventory on the market. That is the lowest level since January, but still within normal ranges for this time of year.

“Even with inventory at its lowest level in months, there’s still enough supply to keep the market healthy and avoid runaway price pressure,” observed Hashim Arthur, Chief Operating Officer of Coldwell Banker Canada. “Conditions are balanced, which is a good place to be. Buyers have more selection than they did earlier in the year, and sellers who price their homes appropriately are still finding strong interest.”

In total, there were about 195,000 properties listed for sale across the country at the end of August. That is almost 9% higher than a year ago and is in line with historical norms for this time of year. The overall supply picture has returned to a more typical state after years of tight conditions, which has prevented the extreme seller’s markets seen in the past.

Home Prices Holding Steady

Despite rising sales, prices have been largely flat. The MLS Home Price Index, which measures the benchmark value of a typical home, slipped by just 0.1% from July. It remains about 3.4% lower than last August, reflecting the declines seen in late 2024 and early 2025 when the market adjusted to higher borrowing costs.

Since April, however, prices have held steady. The national average sale price in August was about $664,000, up 1.8% compared to August 2024. That was the first annual increase in several months and suggests that values are stabilizing, with modest gains showing up in some regions. Year-over-year comparisons are expected to keep improving this fall as the market moves past last year’s lows.

Price patterns vary by region. Higher-priced markets such as Toronto and Vancouver went through deeper corrections last year and are now stabilizing. More affordable markets are beginning to see small increases as activity picks up. The overall message is that prices are no longer falling, but they are not surging either. Buyers are not facing the rapid increases seen during the pandemic, while sellers are generally not under pressure to discount heavily.

What to Watch This Fall

As summer wraps up, attention turns to the fall market, which is traditionally one of the busiest times of the year. Two factors will be key. The first is the surge in new listings after Labour Day, which has already begun. The second is the Bank of Canada’s next interest rate decision. Even a modest rate cut could bring more buyers back into the market.

“We anticipate that if borrowing costs ease even slightly, it will encourage a wave of buyers who have been waiting for a better entry point,” Arthur explained. “Our agents are already seeing more inquiries from clients who are watching mortgage rates closely. With additional listings coming on and a possible rate adjustment ahead, the fall could be a very active season. Buyers who are ready with financing in place will be in a strong position to act quickly when they see the right home.”

Kennedy added, “A balanced market is good news. Buyers have more choice, sellers have realistic expectations, and transactions are happening at a healthy pace. As we head into the fall, preparation and timing will be key. Those who are ready to move will be best positioned to take advantage of opportunities as they arise.”

Real Estate News • September 11, 2025

Trust in Canadian Real Estate

by Coldwell Banker Canada
Trust In Canadian Real Estate

Why recent failures are a wake-up call for consumers, agents, and brokerages to demand higher standards.

In recent months, a few situations have reminded Canadians how fragile trust in real estate can be. In one instance, a large brokerage closed suddenly after serious issues were discovered in the handling of client deposits. In another, allegations of financial misconduct by a licensed professional raised questions about how problems could go unnoticed inside a long-established office.

These examples are reminders that when oversight or culture falls short, the effects reach far beyond a single transaction. Clients begin to question whether their investments are safe, and professionals across the industry are left to defend the reputation of the profession as a whole.

What Went Wrong

Oversight in real estate is meant to serve two purposes: to protect consumers and to hold professionals accountable. Yet when financial controls are weak or regulators are slow to act, the system fails on both counts. In recent cases, serious problems went undetected until they had already caused significant harm, raising doubts about how closely trust accounts are monitored and how quickly red flags are investigated.

Regulation, on its own, is not enough. Rules and policies only matter if they are enforced with consistency and urgency. Too often, the focus falls on minor technicalities while larger risks go unchecked. When that happens, clients are left vulnerable, and agents who are doing their jobs with integrity find their reputations undermined by the failures of others.

These lapses are not just administrative shortcomings. They weaken the bond of trust that real estate depends on, and they point to the need for stronger oversight combined with a culture that demands higher standards every day.

Trust as the Cornerstone

Buying or selling a home is one of the most important decisions of a lifetime. It depends entirely on trust. Clients must know that their Realtor is acting with integrity, just as Realtors expect honesty from their clients.

Consumers should demand financial accountability. In most provinces, deposits are held in a brokerage’s trust account. Recent events show why it is fair to ask exactly how those accounts are managed, how often they are reconciled, and what protections exist if funds are misused. A reputable brokerage will have a clear answer and will not hesitate to share it.

Professionalism is equally important. Clients should expect their Realtor to act with honesty and fairness, to disclose conflicts, and to put the client’s interests first. If something feels wrong, consumers are right to walk away.

Finally, consumers must look beyond the individual agent to the company behind them. A strong agent in a weak system can still end up caught in disaster. Research the brokerage name on the contract. Ask about its training, compliance, and track record. The right brokerage sets the tone for ethical conduct.

What Agents Should Prioritize

It’s not only consumers who are re-evaluating their choices. Real estate agents themselves have been given much to think about. For many, the sudden closure of a brokerage can be career-altering, leaving agents to scramble to find new homes for their businesses overnight, all while reassuring clients that those clients’ deposits and deals were still safe. The lesson is painfully clear: an agent’s choice of brokerage can either underpin their success or undermine it catastrophically.

Choosing a brokerage based on splits or low fees alone is a short-sighted decision. A rock bottom desk fee means little if the firm cannot protect your clients or your own livelihood.

Agents should ask harder questions. Does the brokerage have strong oversight of trust accounts? How does it respond to misconduct? What kind of mentorship and training does it provide? What is the broker-owner’s reputation in the community?

Culture is critical. A brokerage should promote integrity, discipline those who fall short, and support agents who choose to do the right thing even when it is hard. It should also be prepared for a crisis. When challenges arise, the response must be swift and principled. Clients and agents alike need to see that integrity matters more than convenience, and that the organization will always put trust and accountability ahead of affiliation.

At the end of the day, every Realtor’s career depends on public trust. By choosing brokerages that prioritize ethics and accountability, agents protect their clients and themselves while strengthening the industry’s collective reputation.

The Brokerage Burden

These situations also shine a spotlight on the responsibility of brokerages.  Real estate brokerages are more than just administrative hubs; they are the first line of defence for consumer protection. A brokerage accepts deposit cheques, holds them in trust, supervises transactions, and mentors agents on proper practices. When a brokerage fails at these duties, whether through negligence or malfeasance, the consequences can be devastating, as we’ve seen. That’s why broker-owners must view integrity and transparency not as abstract ideals, but as daily operational imperatives.

Proactive oversight is the starting point. Brokerages should conduct frequent reconciliations of trust accounts and invite third-party review. Some in the industry have called for monthly reporting and mandatory external audits. Brokerages that value transparency will welcome these measures.

Equally important is setting a culture of ethics. Leaders must encourage staff to speak up, protect those who do, and take decisive action when misconduct is uncovered. Trust grows when everyone in the organization knows that integrity is non-negotiable.

A Call to Higher Standards

There is an opportunity when such situations happen. Trust, once broken, can be rebuilt, but it demands action from every part of the profession. Regulators must enforce the rules with speed and strength. Industry associations must continue pressing for consumer protections. Brokerages must go beyond the minimum standard to ensure deposits and deals are safe. Agents must align themselves with firms that share their values. Consumers must keep asking smart questions and expect clear answers.

Most Realtors are already living up to that standard. They are honest, hardworking, and as frustrated as the public when scandals make headlines. Each time an agent goes the extra mile for a client, or a brokerage chooses transparency over convenience, trust is restored a little more.

This is a pivotal moment. We can allow these failures to define us, or we can use them to demand better of ourselves. The choice is ours. Agents must demand higher standards. Clients deserve them. And the future of Canadian real estate depends on them.

Rob Goodings is Vice President of Account Management at Coldwell Banker Canada, where he guides franchise development and helps grow the brand’s presence in new markets. Since joining the company in 2005, he has built a career that spans marketing, learning, and affiliate services, giving him both a deep knowledge of the business and close connections across the network. Rob’s focus is on supporting broker-owners, strengthening relationships, and ensuring the Coldwell Banker brand continues to deliver long-term value across Canada.

Real Estate News • July 24, 2025

CREA June 2025 Report: National Sales Rise While Regional Markets Tell Very Different Stories

by Coldwell Banker Canada
Detached homes in a Canadian neighbourhood, reflecting the country's stabilizing real estate market in mid-2025.

Canada’s housing market gained momentum in June with a second month of rising sales and prices stabilizing nationally. CREA’s latest figures reveal very different stories across the country, as Coldwell Banker Canada notes strong Prairie and Atlantic markets while parts of Ontario continue to lag.

In June 2025, national home sales rose for the second month in a row as more buyers returned to the market. The Canadian Real Estate Association reports that home sales recorded through MLS climbed 2.8% in June compared to May. That followed a 3.5% gain in May, marking two straight months of recovery after a sluggish spring. Compared with June 2024, sales were up 3.5%, the first year-over-year increase in many months and a clear sign that the market is moving in a healthier direction.

Highlights for June 2025 across Canada:

  • Home sales rose 2.8% over May and were up 3.5% compared with last June.
  • New listings fell 2.9%, which tightened supply.
  • The MLS Home Price Index slipped only 0.2% from May and was down 3.7% from a year ago, the smallest decline in months.
  • The average home price was $691,643 in June, down 1.3% from last year.
  • Inventory stood at just over 206,000 homes, equal to 4.7 months of supply, which is about 11% more than a year ago.

CREA’s Senior Economist, Shaun Cathcart, described June as “pretty close to a carbon copy of May,” with sales up about 3% month over month and prices holding steady.

Karim Kennedy, Chief Executive Officer of Coldwell Banker Canada, says these numbers match what his teams are seeing on the ground. “This is the type of market where experience really matters. Canadians are returning to real estate with caution, and they are looking for expert local guidance. Our agents are seeing that shift every day,” he explained, emphasizing the importance of regional insight.

Regional trends tell very different stories

National statistics can hide sharp differences between regions. Ontario, particularly Southern Ontario and the Greater Toronto Area, is only slowly recovering. Sales in the GTA have increased 17.3% since April as buyers who waited through the spring begin to re-enter the market. Even with that momentum, large inventories and affordability challenges are putting light downward pressure on prices. Benchmark prices in Guelph, Niagara and London slipped between 1% and 2.5% in June compared with May. Toronto’s benchmark price fell by almost 1% in June. These are markets that saw very steep price increases during the pandemic and are now adjusting to more normal levels, creating opportunities for patient buyers.

Markets in the Prairies, Quebec and Atlantic Canada are telling a very different story. Property values in Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Quebec and much of Atlantic Canada remain resilient because supply is tighter and demand is still strong. Saskatchewan’s market is a standout performer. Home sales in the province reached 1,768 units in June, the third-highest June on record and 6% higher than a year ago. Prices there are at record levels, with the benchmark price hitting $370,700 in June, about 8% higher than last year. Regina and Saskatoon both posted benchmark price gains of between seven and 8% over the past year, while Quebec City surged by 16%. Several Atlantic Canada markets, including Halifax and Saint John, also saw double‑digit annual price gains.

“It is easy to read a national headline and think the whole country is moving in one direction,” Kennedy noted. “The truth is very different. What is happening in Saskatoon is not the same as what is happening in Toronto. That is why local expertise is so valuable.”

A balanced market heading into the second half of the year

Experts are cautiously optimistic about the second half of 2025. The Bank of Canada’s interest rate policy and broader economic trends will continue to shape the market, but the data suggests that a delayed spring rebound is now taking hold. CREA’s chair, Valérie Paquin, noted that most markets are turning a corner even though conditions still vary widely across the country.

Coldwell Banker Canada encourages buyers and sellers to take advantage of balanced conditions while leaning on experienced local agents for insights. 

The overall outlook for 2025 is one of gradual recovery. Sales are improving, prices have levelled off nationally, and confidence is returning. Every market has its own story, and that is why local insight and trusted advice are more important than ever.

About Coldwell Banker Canada

Founded in 1906, Coldwell Banker is the most established residential real estate franchise system in North America. The brand expanded into Canada in 1989 and has since built a legacy of serving the real estate needs of Canadians from coast to coast. In 2021, Coldwell Banker Canada was acquired by Canadian entrepreneurs Steve Houle and Karim Kennedy, who are dedicated to growing the brand’s presence nationally. For more information, visit coldwellbanker.ca/franchising.

Culture • Our News • Press Releases • Real Estate News • June 20, 2025

Coldwell Banker Canada Achieves Historic Milestone with Five Agents Named to Global 30 Under 30 List

by Coldwell Banker Canada

Emerging REALTORS® from across the country are being recognized on the world stage, spotlighting a new generation of Canadian talent and a brand on a mission to bring more people home.

ST. ALBERT, AB – JUNE 19, 2025 – In a significant moment for Canadian real estate, five Coldwell Banker Canada agents have earned spots on the 2025 Coldwell Banker 30 Under 30 list, an international honour recognizing the most promising young professionals in the global Coldwell Banker® network. This marks a strong Canadian showing and underscores both individual excellence and a brand-wide shift towards empowering next-generation leaders.

Chosen from a global network of over 100,000 affiliated sales professionals across approximately 2,900 offices in 45 countries and territories, the 30 Under 30 awards celebrate innovation, service, and leadership at an early career stage. The honour also pays tribute to the brand’s founders, Colbert Coldwell and Arthur Banker, who launched the company as young entrepreneurs at just 24 and 28 years old, respectively.

Representing the best of Canada’s next generation of real estate leaders, the 2025 honourees are:

“We couldn’t be prouder of these five Canadian agents and all they have accomplished,” emphasized Karim Kennedy, CEO of Coldwell Banker Canada. “They reflect everything our brand stands for: entrepreneurial spirit, strong community roots, and a genuine commitment to helping people find their way home. Their recognition on the global stage is well deserved and speaks to their leadership, hard work, and the bright future they are helping shape for real estate in Canada.”

Representing regions from Yellowknife to Amherst, this year’s honourees reflect the strength of Coldwell Banker Canada’s national presence and its growing network. Since pivoting back to Canadian ownership in 2021, the company has expanded its footprint and sharpened its focus on supporting agents through modern tools, thoughtful leadership, and a brand vision that reflects Canadian values.

“This recognition captures the energy and direction of where we’re headed,” added Kennedy. “It’s a reflection of the momentum building across our network. It’s about talent choosing Coldwell Banker Canada because we offer something different. Real support, real opportunity, and a real community.”

Coldwell Banker Canada’s legacy, built on professionalism, innovation, and a strong sense of belonging, continues to attract top talent from coast to coast. This year’s 30 Under 30 distinction underscores that the future of real estate is not only bright, it is proudly Canadian. 

To view the full list of 2025 30 Under 30 winners, please click here.  

About Coldwell Banker Canada

Founded in 1906, Coldwell Banker is the most established residential real estate franchise system in North America. The brand expanded into Canada in 1989 and has since built a legacy of serving the real estate needs of Canadians from coast to coast. In 2021, Coldwell Banker Canada was acquired by Canadian entrepreneurs Steve Houle and Karim Kennedy, who are dedicated to growing the brand’s presence nationally. For more information, visit coldwellbanker.ca/franchising.

 

Media Contact:

Amber Coyle

Fraction Collective

amber@fractioncollective.ca 

Global Luxury • Real Estate News • May 11, 2023

Low Inventory a Challenge for Canada’s Luxury Real Estate Market

by bailey derudder

This article was reposted from The Calgary Herald, May 5, 2023, by Joel Schlesinger, Article Here

Calgary’s luxury sales are declining, yet the segment’s relative affordability in Calgary is generating steady interest. 

Luxury remains relatively hot in Calgary’s resale real estate market compared with other major markets in Canada, a new report suggests.

Although activity in the $1 million-plus price range is not as high as it was last spring, the Top-Tier Real Estate: Spring 2023 State of Luxury report by Sotheby’s International Realty Canada points to Calgary’s luxury market being the healthiest among Canada’s largest cities

 

“Demand is certainly there,” Don Kottick, president and chief executive office of Sotheby’s International Realty Canada. “What’s holding it back really is the low number of properties coming on.”

Low inventory is a challenge in every major city from Vancouver to Montreal, particularly in the luxury markets, the report notes.

In fact, supply is even lower than last year when all resale markets were faced with unprecedented demand.

In part, the low inventory is a result of fewer sellers listing homes, Kottick adds.

While sales are down 64 per cent in the first three months of 2023 in Toronto, year over year, and 53 per cent in Vancouver in their luxury segments, Calgary’s high-end market has fared slightly better, down 36 per cent.

When compared with activity in the years before the pandemic, however, luxury market activity in Calgary so far this year is 223 per cent higher than the first quarter of 2020.

 

What’s more, activity remains far above the 10-year average sales activity for Calgary’s $1 million-plus market, the report adds.

“We may not be seeing more sales, but we are seeing the velocity (of sales) change with buyers’ time to make a decision shortening,” says Rachelle Starnes, a realtor with Coldwell Banker Complete Real Estate.

Driving the pace is low inventory among resales and even new homes.

In particular, prices in the new homes market for luxury are higher than they were before the pandemic as both material and labour costs have increased over the last year. At the same time, builders are also hampered by higher financing costs, Starnes adds.

The end result is less choice among both new builds and resales for luxury buyers.

While sales are down, demand in the Calgary market is still being driven by out-of-town buyers, mostly from Ontario, Kottick adds.

These are often buyers from the Greater Toronto Area where the average price of a home still exceeds $1 million. There, the luxury segment starts at $4 million, the Sotheby’s report notes.

In turn, buyers from Toronto who would have been looking in the mid-price ranges there may find themselves luxury buyers here, as the Sotheby’s report points out that Calgary’s luxury market starts at $1 million.

 

Yet Starnes cautions that threshold, after the last two years of strong activity, is now more like $1.5 million.

She adds that demand for acreage homes in the Rocky View and Foothills regions have fuelled price growth.

“Many of the luxury homes selling are in Springbank, Elbow Valley, Stonepine,” she says. “These communities are about eight minutes out of the city, so they are essentially like the suburbs.”

Sales for luxury homes — like other price ranges — is likely to see consistent growth in the coming months and years, Kottick forecasts.

This will largely be the result of ongoing low supply and anticipated demand growth in the face of federal government policy that aims to bring about 500,000 newcomers to Canada annually through to 2025.

“That means more people coming to Alberta, which means more buyers and more pressure on the inventory,” he says.

“But that’s not just a problem in Alberta; it’s a problem universal to Canada.”

Our News • Press Releases • May 17, 2022

We’re Growing! Welcoming Coldwell Banker Urban Realty

by bailey derudder

Coldwell Banker Canada Celebrates The Opening of Their New Franchisee

 

Ontario real estate professionals Joanne and Frank Urbanski open new brokerage, Coldwell Banker Urban Realty in Tecumseh, Ontario

Tecumseh, ON – May 17, 2022 – Coldwell Banker Canada is pleased to announce that the Ontario real estate professionals Joanne and Frank Urbanski formerly associated with a local Ontario Coldwell Banker Franchise, have chosen to affiliate with the Coldwell Banker® global brand on their own as new brokerage owners. The established agents, based in Tecumseh, Ontario and serving communities throughout the Ontario province are excited for growth in their career and are pleased to reposition themselves as Coldwell Banker Urban Realty.

Owners Joanne Urbanski and Frank Urbanski are experienced professionals, well known in the local real estate industry and with strong roots in the community. They believe in providing exceptional client care and making connections through involvement and trust. Their vision is to create a culture of collaboration and support by providing their agents with knowledge and training and working together to succeed.

“Maximizing the depth of resources offered by the Coldwell Banker global brand, our sights are focused on growth,” continues Joanne Urbanski.  “We’ll be building on the established successful operation as we seek other like-minded sales professionals who share our commitment to professionalism and outstanding service.”

The new ownership team will apply their local real estate expertise and leadership skills as they implement an exciting growth plan to launch the brokerage and position Coldwell Banker Urban Realty for the future.

Coldwell Banker Urban Realty is set for grand opening on Thursday, May 19, 2022!

For further information about Coldwell Banker Canada, please contact: 

Summer Scott

Coldwell Banker Canada

Direct line: (780) 619-0664

summer.scott@coldwellbanker.ca

For further information about Coldwell Banker Urban Realty please contact:

Joanne Urbanski

(519) 818-7758

13266 Tecumseh Rd, Tecumseh ON N8N 3T6

joanneurbanskihomes@gmail.com

Our News • Press Releases • October 20, 2021

Edmonton Entrepreneurs Acquire Coldwell Banker Canada

by Coldwell Banker Canada

Edmonton entrepreneurs acquire Coldwell Banker Canada

October 20, 2021 

Edmonton brokerage owner Steve Houle and business partner Karim Kennedy have acquired the master franchise rights for the Coldwell Banker brand in Canada.

Steve Houle has been with the network for four years as owner of Coldwell Banker Island Properties, operating 18 offices throughout Hawaii. Under his leadership, the company has grown to nearly 500 agents and increased its transaction volume by almost 500 per cent, the company says. Houle was born and raised in Edmonton.

Business partner Karim Kennedy is also from Edmonton and continues to reside in the city. He has a 25-year background in the financial sector working with major institutions such as The Business Development Bank of Canada and Scotiabank. The company says he has a strong track record of assisting companies with execution of their growth plans, particularly through mergers and acquisitions, and he will take on the role of CEO of Coldwell Banker Canada.

Andy Puthon, the current president of the Coldwell Banker Canadian operations and his Canadian team remain with the company, based in the Burlington, Ont. national office.

“This ownership change marks a new day for the Coldwell Banker brand in the Canadian marketplace,” says Liz Gehringer, chief operating officer of Coldwell Banker Real Estate. “This 100-per-cent Canadian ownership structure will provide the organization both flexibility and autonomy, while continuing to be a part of a global network. Steve and Karim have demonstrated the leadership and entrepreneurial expertise to grow the renowned Coldwell Banker brand in Canada. The Canadian team is looking forward to working with Steve and Karim as they explore new opportunities.”

“As the owner of a successful Coldwell Banker franchise operation, I understand the value that the brand offers its affiliates,” says Houle. “As a proud Canadian, I also know the tremendous potential that is present in the Canadian real estate market, so I am very excited by the opportunities that the future holds.”

Kennedy says, “The affiliates now have the access to leverage this team’s deep insight and expertise to exceed their business goals. Combined with our collective strength across a viable Canadian real estate landscape, many advantageous opportunities abound to help affiliates take their businesses to greater heights.

“We additionally value their input and will be engaging with brokers across the country as we build our vision for the future for Coldwell Banker in Canada, and its affiliates from coast to coast and provide a compelling destination for prospective franchisees.”

The brand first came to Canada with its first international franchises in 1989 and achieved dramatic growth through a joint venture with Canada Trust in 1992.  The parent company of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC, based in Madison, N.J., acquired ownership of Coldwell Banker Canada in May 2007. The Coldwell Banker Canada network has independently owned residential and commercial franchised offices across Canada from coast to coast and also in the Yukon and Northwest Territories.

Originally published by Real Estate Magazine, article found here. 

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