The approach of a new year is a natural time to take stock – of what 2025 was like and what might lie ahead.

When it comes to housing, and more specifically your plans to buy a new home, there’s no denying that 2025 was a challenging year. Next year can only be better, right?

2026 a healthier year

Well, in fact, there are clear indications that 2026 might well be a healthier year for housing markets in Canada, including the GTA.

To be sure, challenges remain, namely housing supply and affordability in Ontario, and lingering issues tied to U.S. trade. It would be foolhardy to pretend these concerns didn’t exist. Indeed, you absolutely should pay close attention to such matters as you assess your homebuying readiness and map out your preparation.

But that doesn’t mean there aren’t opportunities. On the contrary, as numerous pieces of content in this issue illustrate, now is a very good time to be home shopping.

Take industry expert Ben Myers’ advice in his column on page 16, for example. “For 2025-era buyers, the playbook that emerges from this macro backdrop and the insights are fairly simple. Stress-test your mortgage at a higher rate than the one you are quoted. Budget as if prices stay flat for a few years rather than assuming automatic capital gains. Focus on projects from credible builders that are actually likely to get built, in locations with real end-user demand, not just investor hype. Treat a new condo as a long-term housing and wealth decision instead of a lottery ticket. The easy money phase is over.”

Focus on the long term

That may be a lot to digest, but one key takeaway should be a focus on the long term, say, over five to seven years. With 2026 looking brighter, challenges notwithstanding, how do you think your housing market will perform over that period?

During challenging market conditions such as these, research and due diligence are at a premium. So too is reliable and trusted advice, over hard sell.

Or, as Myers says, do your homework and surround yourself with an experienced team.

How will you prepare for 2026?