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Bank of Canada Cuts Interest Rates by 0.25%

In a move that's been eagerly anticipated, the Bank of Canada has announced a reduction in its policy rate by 0.25%, bringing it down to 4.75% from the previous 5%. This adjustment marks the first change since July of last year and comes as a response to evolving economic conditions.

Why Did the Rate Change?

The decision to decrease the rate stems from a series of economic shifts starting in March 2022, when the Bank began increasing rates in reaction to unexpectedly high inflation. This inflation surge was a byproduct of pandemic-related financial stimuli and global supply chain disruptions, which impacted prices across the board.

What This Means for You

This rate cut is particularly significant for those in the housing market. Prospective homebuyers securing fixed-rate mortgages and current homeowners with variable-rate mortgages will likely benefit from lower interest costs. This change could make home ownership more accessible to many Canadians and provide some relief to those currently repaying loans.

Economic Overview

The Canadian economy showed signs of recovery in early 2024 after a slowdown in the latter half of the previous year. Despite the GDP growth rate being a modest 1.7%—slower than expected due to dips in inventory investments—consumer spending has remained robust at around 3%. Additionally, there have been noticeable increases in business investment and housing activities. While employment growth has not kept pace with the growth in the working-age population, the job market remains active, and wage pressures are starting to ease.

Inflation and Economic Outlook

As of April, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation rate has dropped to 2.7%, showing a decline from earlier rates. Core inflation metrics have also fallen, indicating a trend towards continued easing. The breadth of price increases across various CPI components has decreased, nearing historical norms.

Despite these positive trends, the Bank of Canada maintains a cautious stance. The Governing Council's recent rate cut to 4.75% reflects growing confidence that inflation will gradually align with the 2% target. However, risks in the inflation outlook still exist, and the Council is closely monitoring factors such as core inflation, the balance of demand and supply, inflation expectations, wage trends, and corporate pricing strategies.

The Road Ahead

The Bank of Canada is committed to achieving price stability and continues to monitor economic indicators closely. This latest rate cut could signal more adjustments in the future, depending on how economic conditions unfold. For Canadians, this means it's essential to stay informed and consider how these changes might impact their financial decisions.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to follow this developing story and analyze what it means for Canadians and the economy at large.

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Understanding Bidding Wars and how to Prepare!

Today, I want to shed some light on the often intimidating process of participating in a multiple offer situation as a homebuyer, also known as the “bidding war” These scenarios have become increasingly common, especially in markets with high demand and limited housing inventory. I will say, at the time I am writing this blog, here in Winnipeg, we are starting to see multiple offer situations a bit more frequently again. It seems as though since the bank of Canada has held interest rates steady for the past few announcements more buyers are feeling more confident to purchase and in general there is still a lack of inventory. In this blog post, I'll provide insights into what you can expect as a buyer when facing multiple offers and offer tips on how to best prepare for such situations.

Understanding Multiple Offer Situations:

The term "offer date" refers to the specific date set by sellers for reviewing offers. This means the sellers will NOT review any offers until this date. This practice is often employed to a) make sure everyone interested in the home has a chance to get in to view it. And b) try to generate a multiple offer situation for the seller. As a buyer, it's crucial to understand the dynamics of a multiple offer situation to navigate the process effectively.

Multiple offer situations in Manitoba:

The specifics of the offer date can vary from province to province, influenced by local rules and regulations. In Manitoba, when setting an offer date sellers sign an agreement instructing their realtor not to present any offers until that date (even if said offer is expiring before offer presentation date), this eliminates the “bully offer” that is allowed in other provinces.

Tips for Buyers in a Multiple Offer Scenario:

1. Early Viewing:

To avoid making rushed decisions, I recommend viewing the home as soon as possible. Your realtor can assess comparable sales in similar multiple offer scenarios to provide data driven guidance on potential offer prices. This also gives you and your realtor ample time to prepare for offer presentation date.

2. Submitting the Offer:

Your realtor will submit your offer on the designated offer date. Before presenting offers to the seller, the selling agent informs all submitting realtors of the total number of offers received, without disclosing any offer details. (All you will ever find out about any other offers is how many others there were or “total offer count”)

3. Be available around offer presentation time:

Your realtor will inform you if you are in competition with other buyers and can give you the , opportunity to make changes to your offer. Stay available for communication via phone or text around the time offers are being presented so your realtor can help ensure your changes (if any) will be submitted.

4. Negotiation Strategy:

In a competitive situation, buyers often lose negotiation power. It's crucial to present an offer you're comfortable with, whether you win or lose. Putting your best foot forward is essential.


5. Realtor Guidance:

Your realtor plays a vital role in advising you through the process. They can help you make informed decisions, discussing aspects such as market value and comparable sold properties helping you feel confident in your offer. This will help to ensure you do not “over pay” for a home just because you are in a competitive situation but also ensure you are writing a competitive offer.


Navigating a multiple offer situation can be stressful, but with the right guidance, you can approach it confidently.


Remember, each scenario is unique, and your realtor is there to assist you in making well-informed decisions. If you have any questions or need assistance with the purchasing process, bidding wars, or multiple offer situations, feel free to reach out!



best realtor in winnipeg, samantha scribilo#AgentSam


Samantha Scribilo

Tel: (204) 960-8851
Email: Sam@JenniferQueen.com

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