How global economic shifts make pre-construction condos a strategic choice
June 18, 2025
In a world where headlines are dominated by global uncertainty – whether it’s U.S. tariffs, the Canadian federal election or shifting trade policies – many Canadians are wondering how all of this affects their financial future, especially when it comes to pre-construction developments across Canada.
The truth is, while the global landscape can feel unpredictable, it’s also creating very real opportunities for savvy investors right here at home. Pre-construction condos, in particular, have emerged as a smart and strategic choice – offering stability, flexibility and long-term growth in a time when other markets feel anything but certain.
Tariffs and trade: Lock in before costs rise
While recent U.S. tariffs have focused specifically on steel and aluminum, the ripple effects are already being felt in materials such as rebar, windows and other metal components. When we modeled the impact on one of our projects, a 15-per-cent tariff translated to an approximate 2.3-per-cent increase in total hard construction costs. That may seem modest now – but if additional tariffs are introduced or expanded, those numbers could escalate quickly.
This is where pre-construction offers a strategic edge: Buyers can secure today’s pricing before developers are forced to adjust for rising input costs. It’s a chance to get ahead of inflationary pressures and protect your investment from cost-driven price increases that may be just around the corner.
Elections and investor confidence
Leading up to the April 28 federal election, political uncertainty was top of mind for many. Elections can shape housing policy, immigration targets and market conditions – but rather than waiting on the sidelines, buyers in the pre-construction space are seizing the opportunity to secure units in high-demand areas such as the GTA. While outcomes are uncertain, southern Ontario’s long-term fundamentals – such as immigration and limited housing supply – continue to drive demand, making pre-construction a smart choice, regardless of political shifts.
A local market that stays resilient
Interest rates remain within a historically moderate range, and many forecasts suggest rates will ease over the next 18 to 24 months. Some projections indicate that five-year fixed rates could fall to the mid- to high-three-per-cent range by 2026, which creates a significant opportunity for pre-construction buyers to secure a unit now and close under more favourable conditions later.
Why pre-construction makes strategic sense right now
In today’s market, pre-construction is less about timing and more about strategy. Here’s why acting now makes sense:
- Beat cost increases
Tariffs on materials such as steel and aluminum are already nudging construction costs up. Buying today locks in pricing before developers adjust for future inflation. - Time your mortgage right
With rate cuts expected through 2025 and 2026, you could be closing into a much lower mortgage environment. Pre-construction gives you that runway. - Get first pick
Early access means better units, better prices and better incentives – before the general market even sees them.
A strategic choice in uncertain times
In this moment of global uncertainty, one thing remains clear: The fundamentals of the southern Ontario real estate market are strong. Immigration, population growth and limited land supply continue to drive long-term demand.
So, while the world watches elections and negotiates trade deals, you can take action now – secure your future, protect your buying power and invest in one of the most reliable assets out there.
If you’ve been waiting for the right time to invest, this is it.