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        <title>Real Estate Blog</title>
        <link>https://www.rachelfung.ca/blog/</link>
        <description></description>
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    <guid>https://www.rachelfung.ca/blog/5-easy-tips-to-get-your-home-ready-for-sale-as-the-spring-market-approaches-/</guid>
    <link>https://www.rachelfung.ca/blog/5-easy-tips-to-get-your-home-ready-for-sale-as-the-spring-market-approaches-/</link>
        <author>rachel@rachelfung.ca (Rachel Fung &amp; Associates)</author>
        <title>5 Easy Tips to Get Your Home Ready for Sale as the Spring Market Approaches </title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Spring is one of the busiest and most exciting times in the real estate market, and in Edmonton and surrounding communities, buyer activity typically picks up quickly as the weather warms. If you’re considering selling your home this spring, preparing your property ahead of time can help you attract more buyers, generate stronger offers, and potentially sell faster.


Here are five simple tips to help get your home market-ready as the spring market approaches. 



1. Declutter and Deep Clean ????


One of the most effective ways to make your home feel more spacious and inviting is to declutter. Remove excess items from countertops, shelves, and closets to help buyers visualize themselves living in the space.


Once the clutter is gone, a thorough deep clean can make a big difference. Clean windows, baseboards, appliances, and floors to give your home a fresh and well-maintained feel.



2. Boost Your Curb Appeal ????


First impressions matter. When buyers arrive at your home, the exterior sets the tone for the entire showing.


As the snow melts, consider:






Cleaning up the yard and removing debris






Power washing walkways and siding






Adding fresh mulch or early spring flowers






Ensuring your front door and entrance look welcoming






A well-presented exterior can make buyers excited before they even step inside.



3. Make Small Repairs ????


Minor repairs can go a long way in creating confidence for buyers. Small issues that might seem insignificant can sometimes raise unnecessary concerns during showings.


Consider fixing things like:






Loose handles or door knobs






Leaky faucets






Small wall scuffs or chipped paint






Burnt-out light bulbs






These quick fixes help show buyers that the home has been well cared for.



4. Brighten and Refresh Your Spaces ????


Light, neutral, and welcoming spaces tend to appeal to the widest range of buyers.


Simple improvements can include:






Opening blinds and curtains to maximize natural light






Adding fresh paint in neutral tones






Rearranging furniture to improve flow






Adding subtle décor like plants or fresh flowers






Creating a bright and airy environment can make your home feel larger and more inviting.



5. Get Professional Advice Early ????


Every home is unique, and the best preparation strategy often depends on your property, neighbourhood, and current market conditions.


Having a real estate professional walk through your home before listing can help identify:






Which improvements will add the most value






What buyers in your area are looking for






The best timing and pricing strategy for the spring market







We're Here to Help Every Step of the Way ????


Preparing your home for sale doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. At Rachel Fung &amp; Associates, we’re always happy to provide guidance and help you determine the best approach for your home.


If you’re thinking about selling this spring and would like some advice, we’d be glad to:






Answer any questions you may have






Visit your home and provide a professional opinion






Help you create a plan to get your home ready for the market






Even if you’re just starting to explore the idea of selling, we’re here to help.


???? Reach out anytime — we’re always happy to take a look and offer our professional insight.


Rachel Fung &amp; Associates Helping you make confident real estate decisions.


RachelFungAndAssociates ????
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 27 Feb 2026 22:29:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.rachelfung.ca/blog/mortgage-stress-test-changes-in-2026-what-edmonton-buyers--sellers-need-to-know/</guid>
    <link>https://www.rachelfung.ca/blog/mortgage-stress-test-changes-in-2026-what-edmonton-buyers--sellers-need-to-know/</link>
        <author>rachel@rachelfung.ca (Rachel Fung &amp; Associates)</author>
        <title>Mortgage Stress Test Changes in 2026: What Edmonton Buyers &amp; Sellers Need to Know</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
As interest rates stabilize and the Bank of Canada holds steady, another important factor is quietly shaping the Alberta housing market: mortgage qualification rules.


In 2026, adjustments to Canada’s mortgage stress test and evolving lender qualification policies could significantly impact buying power — especially here in Edmonton, where affordability remains one of our strongest advantages.


If you’re buying or selling in Edmonton this year, here’s what you need to know.



What Is the Mortgage Stress Test?


Canada’s mortgage stress test requires buyers to qualify at either:






The contract mortgage rate plus 2, or






A minimum qualifying rate set by regulators






Whichever is higher.


This rule was designed to ensure buyers could still afford payments if interest rates rise.


However, with interest rates stabilizing and inflation trending toward the 2 target, policymakers have been reviewing how the stress test is applied — especially for renewals and insured vs. uninsured borrowers.



What’s Changing in 2026?


While the core stress test framework remains in place, lenders are adjusting qualification models in response to:






Stable policy rates






Lower long-term bond yields






Reduced inflation volatility






Competitive mortgage markets






For many Edmonton buyers, this may result in:






Slightly improved qualification thresholds






Increased purchasing power






Greater lender flexibility






Even small adjustments can translate into meaningful buying power gains in Alberta’s more affordable market.



Why This Matters More in Edmonton Than Toronto or Vancouver


Edmonton’s real estate market is uniquely positioned.


Because our average home prices are significantly lower than larger Canadian cities, even modest increases in borrowing capacity can:






Move buyers from condos into townhomes






Move townhome buyers into detached homes






Allow families to purchase in stronger school districts






Enable investors to qualify for small multi-family properties






In higher-priced cities, stress test changes may not shift affordability enough to change buying decisions. In Edmonton, they absolutely can.


That’s why this matters locally.



Example: How Buying Power Could Shift


Let’s look at a simplified example:


A buyer household earning $120,000 annually:


Under tighter qualification rules: May qualify for approximately $480,000


With improved lender flexibility: May qualify closer to $510,000–$525,000


In Edmonton, that difference can mean:






Upgrading from a duplex to a fully detached home






Buying in Windermere instead of further out






Purchasing newer construction instead of resale






That’s real, tangible impact.



What This Means for Edmonton Sellers


If buyer qualification improves even slightly:






More buyers enter the market






Competition increases for well-priced listings






Move-up activity accelerates






Days on market may shorten






This is particularly important for:






South Edmonton family homes






West-end move-up properties






Newer suburban detached homes






Entry-level detached under $500,000






Sellers who prepare early — pricing correctly and presenting professionally — could benefit from increased buyer confidence.



What About Investors?


Edmonton continues to offer:






Strong rental demand






More favorable price-to-rent ratios






Lower entry costs compared to other provinces






Improved qualification flexibility may allow investors to:






Expand portfolios






Enter the market sooner






Transition from condos into duplexes or suited homes






In a steady rate environment, financing clarity helps investors act decisively.



The Bigger Picture: 2026 Is About Stability


With:






Interest rates holding steady






Inflation near target






Modest economic growth projected






And lending practices adapting






Edmonton’s housing market remains positioned for steady, sustainable movement — not volatility.


For buyers, that means planning confidently. For sellers, that means strategic preparation.



Final Thoughts


Mortgage stress test adjustments may not make headlines the way interest rate hikes do — but they quietly shape who can buy, how much they can spend, and how competitive the market becomes.


In an affordable city like Edmonton, even small regulatory shifts can create meaningful opportunity.


If you’re wondering how current qualification rules affect your buying power — or how changing buyer capacity impacts your home’s value — let’s talk.


Rachel Fung &amp; Associates Your trusted Edmonton real estate team
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 00:20:00 -0600</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://www.rachelfung.ca/blog/bank-of-canada-holds-interest-rate-what-it-means-for-canadians-and-the-housing-market/</guid>
    <link>https://www.rachelfung.ca/blog/bank-of-canada-holds-interest-rate-what-it-means-for-canadians-and-the-housing-market/</link>
        <author>rachel@rachelfung.ca (Rachel Fung &amp; Associates)</author>
        <title>Bank of Canada Holds Interest Rate: What It Means for Edmonton Homeowners and Buyers</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Last week, the Bank of Canada has announced that it will hold the key interest rate, keeping the prime rate at 4.45. For homeowners with variable-rate mortgages in Edmonton and surrounding areas, this means no change to mortgage payments — a welcome pause for local families and investors.


Here’s a breakdown of what the Bank’s latest announcement means for the Alberta economy, the Edmonton housing market, and your real estate decisions.



Interest Rates: Stability for Alberta Homeowners


By holding the policy rate steady, the Bank of Canada signaled that current borrowing costs remain appropriate for today's economic conditions. For Edmonton residents:






Variable-rate mortgage payments remain unchanged






Fixed mortgage rates are unlikely to shift immediately






Buyers gain predictability when planning home purchases






The Bank emphasized it will continue monitoring economic risks and is prepared to act if conditions change.



Alberta and Global Economic Context


Global economic growth remains steady, which has implications for Alberta’s trade and energy sectors:






United States: Growth is strong, supported by AI investment and resilient consumer spending.






Europe: Economic improvement continues, especially in services.






China: Growth is slowing, which may impact global energy demand.






Overall, global growth of around 3 provides a stable backdrop for Alberta’s export-driven economy.



Alberta’s Economic Situation


Alberta continues to navigate trade and energy market fluctuations.






Oil prices remain moderately stable, influencing jobs and investment in Edmonton and the surrounding area






Employment has been increasing, but the provincial unemployment rate is higher than pre-pandemic levels






Local consumer spending is improving, supporting retail and housing markets






Despite global uncertainties, Alberta’s economy is benefiting from energy sector recovery and domestic demand.



Edmonton Housing Market Outlook


For Edmonton homebuyers and sellers, the interest rate hold provides short-term stability.






Buyers: Fixed borrowing costs make planning easier, and variable-rate mortgages remain unchanged.






Sellers: Stable rates support ongoing buyer interest in well-priced homes.






Investors: Opportunity to evaluate Edmonton rental and multi-family markets with predictable financing.






Neighborhoods such as Windermere, Summerside, and Laurel remain popular among families, while areas like Downtown Edmonton continue to attract investors and young professionals.



Inflation and Monetary Policy


Inflation in Canada rose to 2.4 in December, largely due to temporary tax-related effects. Core inflation has been slowing and is expected to remain close to the Bank’s 2 target.


The Bank believes the current interest rate level is appropriate for now but will respond if Alberta’s economy or housing market experiences significant changes.



What This Means for Edmonton Buyers and Homeowners


The rate hold is encouraging for those making housing decisions in the Edmonton area:






Buyers benefit from predictable mortgage rates






Homeowners with variable-rate mortgages can maintain current payments






Sellers may continue to see steady demand, especially for move-in-ready properties






Timing, neighborhood selection, and property type remain critical in today’s market.



Final Thoughts


The Bank of Canada’s decision to hold rates reflects a cautious but positive outlook for Alberta. Stable borrowing costs and steady inflation provide an opportunity for Edmonton residents to make informed real estate decisions.


The next Bank of Canada interest rate decision is scheduled for March 18, 2026.


For guidance on how these rates affect Edmonton buying power, selling strategy, or mortgage options, I’m here to help.


Rachel Fung &amp; AssociatesYour trusted Edmonton real estate team
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 04 Feb 2026 00:03:00 -0600</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://www.rachelfung.ca/blog/welcome-to-2026-a-fresh-year-new-goals-and-trusted-edmonton-real-estate-guidance/</guid>
    <link>https://www.rachelfung.ca/blog/welcome-to-2026-a-fresh-year-new-goals-and-trusted-edmonton-real-estate-guidance/</link>
        <author>rachel@rachelfung.ca (Rachel Fung &amp; Associates)</author>
        <title>Welcome to 2026: A Fresh Year, New Goals, and Trusted Edmonton Real Estate Guidance</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
As we step into 2026, all of us at Rachel Fung &amp; Associates want to start by saying thank you. Whether you’ve worked with us before, followed along on our journey, or are just getting to know our team, we are incredibly grateful for the trust and support that continues to shape our Edmonton real estate business.


A new year always brings a sense of possibility. For some, 2026 may be the year you buy your first home in Edmonton. For others, it may be the right time to upsize, downsize, invest in Edmonton real estate, or sell a property that has meant so much to you. No matter the situation, we believe every real estate decision is deeply personal—and that’s where our approach begins.


At Rachel Fung &amp; Associates, we are proud to be a relationship-driven Edmonton real estate team built on honesty, hard work, and trust. We know that no two clients, homes, or life circumstances are ever the same. That’s why we take the time to truly understand your goals, answer your questions, and guide you through the Edmonton housing market with clarity and care every step of the way. Real estate isn’t just about buying or selling—it’s about finding the right fit for your life, your timeline, and your future.


As the Edmonton real estate market continues to evolve in 2026, our commitment remains the same: to provide straightforward advice, strong advocacy, and a smooth, well-informed experience from start to finish. Whether you’re buying a home, selling a home, or exploring real estate investment opportunities in Edmonton, we believe informed clients make confident decisions.


This blog is a new space for us to share Edmonton real estate market updates, tips for buyers and sellers, neighborhood insights, and behind-the-scenes perspectives from our team. Our goal is to make buying and selling real estate in Edmonton feel approachable, transparent, and tailored to you.


Here’s to new beginnings, meaningful connections, and exciting opportunities in Edmonton real estate in 2026. If you’re thinking about making a move this year—or simply want expert advice on the Edmonton housing market—we’re always here to help.


Welcome to 2026. We’re glad you’re here
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 06 Jan 2026 10:25:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.rachelfung.ca/blog/edmonton-real-estate-a-look-back-at-2025-and-what-to-expect-in-2026/</guid>
    <link>https://www.rachelfung.ca/blog/edmonton-real-estate-a-look-back-at-2025-and-what-to-expect-in-2026/</link>
        <author>rachel@rachelfung.ca (Rachel Fung &amp; Associates)</author>
        <title>Edmonton Real Estate: A Look Back at 2025 and What to Expect in 2026</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
As we move into a new year, it’s a natural time to reflect on where the Edmonton real estate market has been—and where it may be heading. The past year brought change, opportunity, and important lessons for buyers, sellers, and investors alike. At Rachel Fung &amp; Associates, we believe understanding the market is key to making confident decisions, so let’s take a look back at Edmonton real estate in 2025 and what we’re watching as we move into 2026.


Looking Back: The 2025 Edmonton Real Estate Market


The 2025 Edmonton housing market continued to show resilience. While market conditions varied by neighborhood and property type, one consistent theme stood out: Edmonton remained a city of opportunity.


Buyers in 2025 benefited from Edmonton’s relative affordability compared to other major Canadian cities, making it an attractive option for first-time buyers, growing families, and investors. Demand remained steady, particularly for well-maintained homes in established communities and newer developments with modern features.


Sellers who priced their homes strategically and prepared their properties well often saw strong interest. Homes that were clean, staged, and realistically priced tended to perform best, while overpricing was less forgiving in a more informed market. Overall, 2025 reinforced the importance of strategy, preparation, and professional guidance when buying or selling real estate in Edmonton.


Key Takeaways from 2025


One of the biggest lessons from 2025 was that real estate is never one-size-fits-all. Micro-markets within Edmonton behaved differently, and success often came down to timing, location, and understanding buyer expectations. The value of working with a knowledgeable Edmonton real estate team became increasingly clear as clients navigated changing conditions with clarity and confidence.


Looking Ahead: The 2026 Edmonton Real Estate Forecast


As we look toward Edmonton real estate in 2026, cautious optimism continues to shape the outlook. Edmonton’s strong fundamentals—diverse employment, population growth, and ongoing development—remain supportive of a healthy housing market.


For buyers, 2026 may offer continued opportunities, especially for those who are prepared, pre-approved, and clear on their goals. Being decisive while still strategic will be key. For sellers, understanding current market conditions and pricing correctly from the start will continue to be critical to achieving strong results.


Investors may also find Edmonton appealing in 2026, as rental demand and long-term growth potential remain important considerations in the Edmonton real estate market.


How Rachel Fung &amp; Associates Can Help in 2026


No matter what the market brings, our approach stays the same. At Rachel Fung &amp; Associates, we are relationship-driven and committed to guiding our clients with honesty, hard work, and trust. We take the time to understand your unique situation and help you navigate the Edmonton housing market with confidence—whether you’re buying your first home, selling a longtime property, or planning your next investment.


As 2026 unfolds, our goal is to continue providing clear advice, local expertise, and a smooth, well-informed real estate experience tailored to you.


If you’re thinking about making a move in 2026 or simply want to understand how the Edmonton real estate market may impact your plans, we’re always here to help.


— Rachel Fung &amp; Associates
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 30 Jan 2025 09:38:00 -0600</pubDate>
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