When is the right time to buy your first home—or upgrade to a new one? Many people try to time their purchase around market shifts and fluctuating interest rates. But while these economic factors are worth watching, your personal readiness often matters more than anything else.
We spoke with Jesse Abrams, Co-Founder and CEO of Homewise—Brookfield Residential’s trusted mortgage partner—to get insight into what really matters when deciding to buy a home.
What Matters Most When Buying?
According to Jesse, the most important factor is you. Ask yourself:
- Have I saved enough for a down payment?
- What is my overall budget?
- Am I financially and emotionally ready to make a move?
“The best time to buy is often right now, especially in an environment with potentially increasing interest rates,” explains Jesse.
“The worst decision someone can make is thinking of a house as an investment, when it should be considered a steppingstone.”
Instead of waiting for the perfect market, focus on your own timing. Once you're ready—financially and mentally—you can act confidently.
What About Interest Rates?
Interest rate announcements from the Bank of Canada can impact demand and pricing, but trying to perfectly time those changes is difficult—and often leads to missed opportunities.
“It’s unlikely that we will see an exceptionally fast drop in interest rates in the next 12–18 months,” says Jesse. “Waiting could lead to more competition and higher home prices.”
In short: buy when you’re ready, not when you think the market will hit a low.
Why Buying Sooner Can Pay Off
The earlier you buy, the sooner you begin building equity. Whether you're staying for the long run or using your first home as a steppingstone, owning a home gives you stability and financial growth over time.
“Figure out if you want to live in a home for many years, or if it’s a steppingstone,” Jesse says. “Either way, the perfect time to buy is today—or whenever you are ready.”
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’ve reached the point where homeownership feels right, we invite you to:
- Visit the show homes in Chinook Gate
- Chat with a Homewise agent to find the best mortgage option for your needs
Working with trusted professionals helps you shop the best rates and boost your purchasing power—so you can make a smart move when the time is right.