Canadian winters demand more from our homes than almost any other season. Without the right winterization tools, cold weather and harsh freeze-thaw cycles can quickly lead to unexpected repairs and higher energy bills.

Whether you own a house or rent, the right winter upgrades can help you stay comfy, lower heating costs and keep your home safe during months of snow, ice and freezing temperatures. If you’re looking for smart ways to keep warm, minimize drafts and improve your winter comfort, this comparison guide will help you choose the best options for your home.

Why winterization matters in Canada

Prepping your home to endure cold winds, heat loss through windows, heavy snowfalls and dry indoor air are common challenges Canadian homeowners face. As soon as you crank up the thermostat, indoor air tends to get dry (without humidifiers, of course), but what’s worse is if you have uninsulated areas or drafty doors and you’re watching your heat (and hard-earned money!) slip through the cracks.

Outdoor surfaces can also become slippery or difficult to manage when its snowfall warning after snowfall warning. Without preparing, these challenges can lead to higher energy use, less comfortable living spaces and safety concerns. Taking steps to winterize your home helps reduce heat loss, supports energy efficiency and creates a more comfortable and secure environment throughout the season.

Let’s look at a few easy ways how.

Window insulation film: how to insulate windows in cold weather

Windows are often one of the main places where heat escapes during the winter months, particularly in older homes or rental units. Even well-sealed windows can let in small drafts once temperatures drop.

Adding a layer of window insulation film creates a clear barrier that helps limit heat loss and keeps indoor spaces more comfortable, all while using less energy. It’s a simple, affordable upgrade that can make a noticeable difference through the colder season.

Heated snow melting mats: how to keep your walkway ice-free all winter

Driveways and walkways can quickly become slick and difficult to navigate once snow and ice start to build up. Keeping these areas clear is important for both safety and property maintenance, especially during frequent storms. For homeowners who want a long-term option, snow melting mats help prevent ice from forming in the first place, which reduces the need for regular shoveling or the use of salt that can wear down concrete in certain areas. These mats work well on steps, walkways and smaller driveways.

Why smart thermostats are worth the upgrade

Smart thermostats are a popular home upgrade and for good reason. They make it easier to stay comfortable while helping reduce energy use. Many Canadian homes still rely on basic thermostats, so switching to a smart model can make a noticeable difference, especially during the winter months.

Smart thermostats learn your daily routine and automatically adjust the temperature based on when you’re home, away or asleep. That means less wasted heat and, in many cases, lower heating bills. You stay cozy when you need to, without constantly fiddling with the settings.

They’re also simple to use. You can control the temperature from your phone, keep an eye on energy usage and even use remote sensors to help balance heating from room to room. Some models can manage humidity or send alerts if your HVAC system needs attention. Altogether, it’s a practical upgrade for homeowners and renters looking for better control, improved comfort and potential savings throughout the colder season.

Snow shovels, ice chippers and snow blowers: why these are essential

Snow can pile up fast during a Canadian winter, and keeping walkways and driveways clear is key to having a welcoming home. While heated mats can help with small areas like steps or entryways, larger spaces usually call for reliable snow-removal tools.

A sturdy shovel is a go-to for everyday clearing, especially after lighter snowfall. When ice builds up or snow becomes packed down after freeze-thaw cycles, an ice chipper can help break it up. For bigger jobs, like long driveways or wide walkways, a snow blower can make the work faster and far less physically demanding.

Why Canadian homes need humidifiers

Indoor air tends to get very dry during the winter months. Cold outdoor air holds less moisture to begin with, and once it’s heated, even more humidity is lost. The result can be dry skin, static electricity, and even damage to wood floors or furniture. A humidifier helps bring moisture back into the air, making your home feel more comfortable while also helping protect your space.

Making winter more comfortable and efficient

Getting your home ready for winter is one of the simplest ways to stay comfortable while keeping energy costs in check. The upgrades highlighted in this guide, from window insulation film and heated driveway mats to smart thermostats, snow removal tools and humidifiers, are well suited to Canadian winters.

Together, they help keep your home warmer, improve safety around your property, and make day-to-day winter living a little easier. Whether you rent or own, these winter-ready upgrades can help you enjoy a more comfortable and efficient season ahead.

Source: https://www.realtor.ca/blog/the-best-winterization-upgrades-every-canadian-home-needs/40246/1367

If you’re looking for further rate drops from the Bank of Canada before jumping into the real estate market, maybe don’t hold your breath.

On Dec. 10, the Bank of Canada decided to keep its policy interest rate at 2.25%, following two consecutive 25 basis point cuts made in September and October.

The consensus among Canadian economists is that this will more or less be around the rate we see throughout 2026, barring any exceptional political or economic events.

For anyone thinking of buying a home in the new year, or for anyone already carrying a mortgage, this outlook actually signals a moment of relative stability in borrowing costs.

We spoke to Ryan Biln, Economist at the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA), to get a better understanding as to what the Bank’s decision means for Canadian home buyers, sellers and homeowners.

What should prospective home buyers keep in mind if they are looking to buy in 2026?

The short answer is this: interest rates probably won’t stray too far from where things are now. Biln suggests those looking to buy a home next year should focus less on waiting for further rate drops and more on their local market conditions and affordability levels.

For example, if you live in a market with properties sitting on the market longer than normal, you may start to see more bargains.

“Slower activity and higher inventory in some markets and for some property types may give buyers more time and choice compared to certain periods over the last decade,” Biln says.

What will Canadian real estate markets look like in 2026?

Looking at a national level, CREA is forecasting 509,479 home sales in 2026—up 7.7% compared to this year—hitting a level not seen 2021. That amount is still slightly under the 10-year average, however.

The national average home price is forecast to increase by 3.2% from 2025 to $698,622 in 2026. This would mark the sixth straight year where the national average home price has hovered around the $700,000 range.

“Demand will remain strong, driven primarily by Canada’s largest age cohort, those in their late 20s and in their 30s, who continue to enter the housing market and are more willing to relocate from within provinces and between provinces to secure housing,” Biln says.

What if your mortgage is up for renewal in 2026?

The Bank of Canada reports more than 60% of all outstanding mortgages are expected to renew in 2025 and 2026 as many Canadians took advantage of the ultra-low rates being offered back then when we were recovering from pandemic shutdowns.

Those renewals will come with payment increases, as most borrowers tended to opt for five-year fixed mortgages.

“These overall numbers, however, hide large differences between borrowers and between types of products,” the Bank states. “For instance, mortgage holders with a five-year, fixed rate contract renewing in 2025 or 2026 could face an average payment increase of around 15% to 20% compared with their payment in December 2024. Those with variable rates and variable payments could see an average payment decline of around 5% to 7%.”

The classic question: fixed rate mortgage or variable rate mortgage?

Right now, you may qualify for a five-year fixed rate for as low as 3.79%.

Fixed rates have edged slightly higher in recent weeks, and broader economic factors could play a role in where they go next.

Over the past 20 years, variable rates have outperformed fixed rates, except during the early pandemic days.

“Variable rates are now lower than the average five-year fixed,” Biln says. “Looking ahead, it’s hard to tell which would be the better option, but prospective home buyers should carefully weigh the risks and benefits of each mortgage type and term, and choose the best option for their financial situation and risk profile.”

The information discussed in this article should not be taken as financial or legal advice. This article is for informational purposes only.

Source: https://www.realtor.ca/blog/bank-of-canada-holds-rate-at-225-what-this-means-for-mortgages-in-2026/40224/1362

When the weather changes from a crisp fall breeze to a freezing winter chill, there’s something about decorating for the holiday season that brings a feeling of warmth and coziness to your home. To help you deck the halls without going over budget, we’re sharing some tips about how to save on holiday décor while keeping it classy. By using what you have, investing in long-lasting pieces, checking out thrift stores and doing a few DIY projects, you can make your home feel merry and bright on any budget.

1. Skip the red and green for a more modern look
Vibrant red and emerald green may look good on Santa Claus, but when it comes to decorating your home, a seasonal but more subdued colour scheme can save you money while offering a modern holiday feel. To achieve a chic holiday look without the tinsel, consider investing in pieces that will last all season long instead of spending on holiday décor items you’ll want to hide away after December. Items like a plaid throw blanket, pillows in fall hues or a centrepiece with seasonal fruit like tangerines will bring a classic holiday warmth to your home from fall to spring.

2. Score unique finds and reduce waste by shopping at thrift stores
Not only is shopping at thrift stores for holiday décor affordable, it’s also more environmentally friendly.. From unique serving trays for holiday cookies to wooden crates for displaying gifts or vintage glassware to decorate your table, thrift and antique stores offer plenty of inspiration for holiday décor on any budget. To ensure you find pieces that’ll work in your home, think about items that might have more than one purpose like a tablecloth that could be used as a Christmas tree skirt or a vintage tin bucket that could be used for a seasonal floral arrangement on your front porch.

3. Wrap gifts early and put them on display
Avoiding last-minute holiday shopping pays off in more ways than one. Not only will you miss out on long lines and delayed shipping times, there’s nothing more cheerful than a pile of wrapped gifts under the tree to make your home feel ready for the holidays. To save on wrapping costs, consider using recycled paper (newspaper or last year’s wrapping paper) or brown kraft paper. Twine instead of ribbon is an affordable and more sustainable holiday-themed option, and a few sprigs of green pulled from your backyard or a walk in the woods will make your gifts look like a scene from a Hallmark holiday movie.

4. Visit the dollar store with a few DIYs in mind
Discount or dollar stores are a no-brainer for affordable holiday décor like twinkle lights, tinsel ornaments and just about anything you need to deck the halls. If you find dollar store items are more tacky than charming, consider doing a DIY project to bring new life to discount holiday décor. For example, a miniature holiday village made with plastic or ceramic houses found at the dollar store can easily be transformed into a modern holiday scene with a spray coat of paint that matches your décor (solid white is a classic option). Add a battery-powered tea light candle and you’ll create a classy holiday village for just a few dollars.

5. Skip the traditional tree and decorate a houseplant instead
Decorating a fir, spruce or poplar is a holiday tradition in many households. But if you live in a small space, are sticking to a budget or simply want to switch it up, decorating houseplants you already own is an easy and affordable way to transform your home in an Instagram-worthy holiday scene. Simply hang a few ornaments and add a string of twinkle lights and you won’t miss the traditional tree. If houseplants feel more tropical than traditional, consider going for a nature walk to find free seasonal greens like sprigs of cedar, pinecones, acorns or other evergreen cuttings to display in your home.

6. Decorate and display a gingerbread house
Decorating a gingerbread house is a must-do holiday activity for many families, and they’re not just for kids. Gingerbread houses are whimsical, sweet and do double duty as decoration and dessert. Plus, DIY gingerbread house kits are affordable and easy to find at most grocery stores. Add a tablecloth and display your gingerbread house on a pretty plate or cake stand to make it a budget-friendly decoration worth waiting until Christmas to eat.

Decorating on a budget doesn’t mean missing out on that warm and cozy holiday feeling. By getting creative, shopping for multi-purpose pieces and hunting for deals on unique items, you can stick to a budget without sacrificing on holiday style.

Source: https://www.realtor.ca/blog/6-classy-ways-to-decorate-for-the-holidays-on-a-budget/15714/1367