July 2026 Thoughts From Judy Stacee-Cleaver, Broker of Record, FRI,ABR

Live in the NOW!

There is a recurring theme in countless books and articles: the importance of living in the present moment. While we often try to predict what tomorrow will bring, whether through reviewing reports, articles, or analysing monthly and yearly statistics, the truth remains, the future is uncertain. Is dwelling on the past or worrying about the unknown really what we want? The notion of living in the “now” calls us to focus on today, to make decisions based on the current reality rather than being paralysed by what could or might be.

Real Estate: Navigating Today’s Market. In real estate, we often look to historical data and projections to guide our decisions. We ask: Will prices go up or down? What will happen to interest rates, and should those be factored into our plans? While these questions are important, they can sometimes overshadow the fundamental reasons people buy and sell homes.

For most Canadians, a home is more than an investment, it's a place to grow, raise a family, retire, or simply live. This article focuses on primary residences rather than investment properties, though we acknowledge the challenges investors face. Rising costs and the unpredictability of tenants make investment property ownership a demanding venture. Investors must be prepared for risk and reward alike, and the resilience they demonstrate is worth recognising.

Activity in real estate sales has increased. Prices might not meet the expectations of either sellers or buyers, but what matters most is the motivation to move forward. Buyers today can enjoy peace of mind, knowing they aren’t competing against dozens of other offers and can secure essential conditions like home inspections and financing. This not only protects their financial interests but also helps them avoid making emotionally driven decisions that could lead to regret.

Sellers, too, must be diligent. Ensuring a buyer is solid means their own plans, whether to relocate, upgrade, or downsize, can proceed smoothly. Both sides want certainty, and while the market may fluctuate, the present moment offers opportunities for both buyers and sellers

Beyond real estate, Canadians have much to celebrate. Team Canada’s participation in the FIFA 2026, with the tournament partially hosted by our nation, brought communities together and stirred deep emotions across the country. Watching the matches was an exhilarating experience, and clearly Canada’s passion for soccer is growing. The sport not only showcased our athletes’ talent but also united the world, reflecting the power of teamwork and national pride.

Whether navigating real estate decisions or cheering for Team Canada, there is value in living in the now. Today’s choices and market conditions are what matter most. Seize the opportunities available today. The present is where life happens, and that is something worth celebrating.

Enjoy your summer, Judy & Jo