Is Real Estate in Ontario Still Affordable? Here's the Truth.

Josh Perez • February 8, 2026

If you're between 25 and 40, you've probably said it. You've definitely thought it.


"Real estate in Ontario is just too expensive."


It's a feeling that's easy to understand. Prices are high, competition is fierce, and it can feel like the dream of homeownership is slipping away.


But here's the truth:


That feeling, while real, is often based on a misconception.


I've helped over a thousand people across Ontario who felt the exact same way, and today, many of them are homeowners and real estate investors. They didn't get lucky. They got a strategy.


That's why I created the Free Ontario Homebuyer Strategy Plan.


This isn't some basic consultation. It's a fully personalized strategy built around your income, your financial picture, and your goals. It's a clear roadmap to show you what's possible.


Here's what you'll get inside:


What's Included in the Free Ontario Homebuyer Strategy Plan

1. A Full Breakdown of What You Can Realistically Afford

Forget the online calculators and guesswork. We'll give you a real, concrete number based on your unique financial situation. This is the solid foundation you need to move forward with confidence.

2. A Clear Plan to Increase That Number

Don't like your initial number? That's okay. We'll show you the exact steps you can take to increase your affordability, whether it's through credit improvements, debt management, or savings strategies.

3. A Personal Strategy for Buying, Upgrading, or Selling

Everyone's journey is different. Whether you're a first-time buyer, looking to move up, or planning to sell, we'll build a strategy tailored to your specific goals and the current market conditions.

4. A Timeline That Shows How This Becomes Possible

This isn't a vague, far-off dream. We'll lay out a clear timeline that shows you the path from where you are today to where you want to be, step by step.

5. A Long-Term Roadmap to Build Wealth

This is about more than just one transaction. We'll help you create a long-term roadmap that moves you toward the future you thought you lost, using real estate as a tool to build lasting wealth.



Stop Guessing. Start Building.

If you've ever felt that real estate is slipping away from you, it's time to get a real plan.


For more on this, you can watch my video on this topic here: https://youtube.com/shorts/R0stp72KqV4?si=dYHxjyoCnYGymGB1


Ready to get started? I offer completely free consultations to walk you through this framework.

No pressure. No sales pitch. Just clarity.


Schedule a call


Let's give you the confidence to move forward—instead of guessing.


"You might feel priced out, but you're not planned out. A personalized strategy makes all the difference." — Josh Perez


Josh Perez
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Stress-Testing Your Mortgage Affordability: Why It Matters

By Josh Perez • March 25, 2026
Buying a home is one of the biggest financial commitments you’ll ever make. That’s why lenders want to be sure you can handle your mortgage payments—not just today, but also if interest rates rise in the future. This is where the mortgage stress test comes in. Many Canadians hear the term but aren’t entirely sure what it means or how it affects them. Let’s break it down in plain language. What Is the Mortgage Stress Test? The stress test is a rule introduced by the federal government that requires all mortgage applicants to qualify at a higher rate than the one they’ll actually pay. Currently, you must qualify at the greater of your contract rate + 2% or the benchmark qualifying rate (set by the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions). For example: If your lender offers you a 5-year fixed mortgage at 5.25%, you must show you could still afford the payments at 7.25% . Even if rates don’t rise that high, the stress test ensures you won’t be overextended if they do. Why Does It Matter? The stress test protects both borrowers and lenders by: Preventing over-borrowing : It ensures you don’t take on more debt than you can realistically handle. Preparing for rate hikes : With interest rates fluctuating, it’s a safeguard against sudden increases. Strengthening financial stability : It lowers the risk of defaults, protecting the housing market as a whole. While it can sometimes feel like a barrier—reducing the amount you qualify for—it’s ultimately designed to keep you from becoming “house poor.” How Does It Impact Buyers? The stress test can significantly affect your homebuying budget. For example, without it, you might qualify for a $600,000 mortgage, but with the stress test applied, you may only qualify for $500,000. That doesn’t mean your dream of homeownership is out of reach—it just means you may need to adjust expectations or explore other strategies, such as: Increasing your down payment Paying down existing debts Considering alternative lenders who may have different qualification standards Why Work With a Mortgage Professional? Every lender applies the stress test, but not every lender views your application the same way. An independent mortgage professional can: Shop multiple lenders to find the best fit Run affordability scenarios at different rates Help you understand how much house you can truly afford—without stretching your finances too thin The Bottom Line The mortgage stress test isn’t meant to stop you from buying a home—it’s there to protect you from financial strain down the road. By understanding how it works and planning ahead, you can make smarter choices and buy with confidence. If you’re thinking about purchasing a home, refinancing, or simply want to know how the stress test affects your options, connect with us today. We’ll help you stress-test your budget and find the mortgage solution that works best for you.

Bank of Canada Holds Rate at 2.25% — March 18, 2026

By Josh Perez • March 18, 2026
The Bank of Canada announced today that it is holding its target for the overnight rate at 2.25%, with the Bank Rate at 2.5% and the deposit rate at 2.20%. For anyone watching the mortgage market — whether you're renewing, purchasing, or simply keeping an eye on borrowing costs — here's a breakdown of what was announced and what it may mean for you.