By Leanne Mollica, Mortgage Broker — My Mortgage Strategy (Salmon Arm, BC)
As the weather cools down, the Fall 2025 housing and mortgage outlook is warming up with opportunity—if you know what to look for. This season is shaping up to be a “wait and see” market for many people, but savvy buyers, sellers, and homeowners are still making strategic moves based on what rates and pricing are doing right now.
What the Fall Housing Market Really Looks Like
National housing predictions for 2025 are all over the map. Some experts forecast a modest dip of 1.7% to 3.2% in home prices, while others still expect growth of 3.5% to 5%. The reality is that averages don’t matter nearly as much as local trends. Markets like the Shuswap, Salmon Arm, and the Okanagan behave very differently from large urban centres—and that’s why having the right Realtor in your corner matters more than ever.
What’s Happening With Mortgage Rates?
The Bank of Canada hasn’t made a move since the last cut in April, but another reduction before the end of 2025 is still possible. Earlier this year, CMHC projected that 5-year fixed rates would settle between 5.3% and 5.7%, but that didn’t quite hold—many borrowers are already seeing lower fixed-rate options today. For those buying or renewing in late 2025, this period is shaping up to be a promising borrowing window.
Variable-rate mortgages are also worth watching. If the Bank of Canada cuts rates again, variable or adjustable mortgages could offer meaningful savings—if your budget can handle potential fluctuations. Bond yields (which heavily influence fixed mortgage pricing) remain stable for now, despite market noise surrounding U.S. political pressure on their central bank.
What This Means for You Right Now
Here’s how to approach the market this fall:
Fixed Rates
Fixed-rate mortgages continue to offer stability and predictability—ideal for anyone who likes payment certainty.
Quick-Closing Buyers
If you’re closing within 30 days, you may qualify for quick-close mortgage specials. These limited-time rates can offer sharper pricing, and lenders rarely advertise them—so it’s worth asking me to check.
Variable Rates
Variable options may become more attractive if the Bank of Canada cuts again. I run side-by-side comparisons for clients that map out real financial outcomes, not guesses, so you can make a confident choice.
Rate Holds
One of the smartest strategies right now is to secure a 120-day rate hold. This locks in today’s rate while you shop, protects you if rates rise, and automatically floats you down if rates drop.
Leanne’s Pro Tip
Whether you’re comparing insured vs. uninsured options, preparing for renewal, or juggling the buy/sell math, I can prepare clean, easy-to-understand scenarios to help guide your decision-making. In 2025, success is all about having a strategy—not rushing to keep up with the market.
Need support building your mortgage plan? I’m always here to help.
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📧 leanne@mymortgagestrategy.ca
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