February Ottawa Housing Market Pulse

Hello Beautiful People!

Love is in the air, but so is opportunity—especially in Ottawa’s real estate market! While winter usually slows things down, this season is proving that determined buyers and motivated sellers don’t hit pause just because there’s snow on the ground. Homes are selling fast, interest rate chatter is heating up, and all eyes are on what’s next for the market.

Beyond real estate, this month is about celebration and reflection. Black History Month gives us a chance to honour the incredible contributions of Black Canadians, and Ottawa is hosting some inspiring events you won’t want to miss. Let’s get into it!

Kat’s Hot Take: What’s Shaping the Market Right Now

Big market shifts are creating new opportunities for buyers, sellers, and investors. Here’s what you need to know!

Bank of Canada Cuts Rates – What It Means for You

On January 29, 2025, the Bank of Canada lowered its key interest rate to 3%, making borrowing more affordable. This marks a major shift from the high rates of 2023-24, when mortgage costs were significantly higher.

🔹 New Interest Rates:

• Overnight rate (affects mortgage rates): 3%

• Bank Rate (what banks pay to borrow money): 3.25%

• Deposit Rate (what banks earn on deposits): 2.95%

Even more interesting? The Bank is ending quantitative tightening (measures to slow inflation) and will restart asset purchases in March. If inflation remains under control, we could see even lower borrowing costs later this year.

💡 How This Affects You:

• Buyers: Lower mortgage rates make homeownership more affordable—time to get pre-approved!

• Sellers: More buyers in the market = faster sales and stronger offers.

• Investors: Cheaper financing makes rental properties a smart move.

📌 Next rate announcement: March 5, 2025—another cut could be on the horizon!

📌 Source: Bank of Canada Press Release (Jan 29, 2025)

Leadership Change & Real Estate Outlook

With Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stepping down, Canada is entering a leadership transition ahead of the next federal election on October 20, 2025. The Liberal Party will select a new leader, and as the election approaches, housing policy is expected to be a key issue.

💡 How could this impact the housing market?

• Government transitions often bring new housing policies, tax changes, or incentives—stay tuned!

• Some buyers and sellers may wait to see how policies unfold, but dropping interest rates could keep the market active.

• Expect discussions on homeownership support, rental policies, and housing supply solutions leading up to the election.

📌 Source: Radio-Canada Analysis on Trudeau’s Resignation & Election Timing

U.S. Tariffs & Housing Costs – What’s the Real Impact?

While no new U.S. tariffs were introduced in 2025, existing tariffs on softwood lumber remain, keeping construction costs high. This could put pressure on new home prices and make resale homes more attractive to buyers.

💡 Key Takeaways:

• Builders are still paying higher prices for materials, leading to higher costs for new builds.

• Resale homes may see higher demand as buyers look for alternatives to pricey new builds.

• If trade agreements change, we could see some relief, but for now, the market is holding steady.

📌 Source: Bank of Canada’s Monetary Policy Report (Jan 2025)

💡 Bottom Line: What Should You Do?

• Buyers: If rates drop again in March, affordability will improve—but waiting too long may mean competing with more buyers!

• Sellers: A more active market means more buyers competing for your home—if you’re considering selling, let’s strategize now.

• Investors: Lower borrowing costs + strong rental demand = smart opportunities in the market.

📞Ready to make a move? Let’s talk! Call 613-794-9199 and let’s put a winning plan in place!

Home Sweet Find: Your Next Community

170 Munro St, Carleton Place – A Winter Market Success!

Despite February’s snowstorm, this charming 3-bedroom bungalow stole the spotlight!

🔥 22 showings in just 2 days

💰 Sold conditionally on Day 3 at 2.4% over asking!

📌 Proving that winter sellers can still win big in this market!

Buyers are out in full force, and listings are getting snapped up fast.

If you’re thinking of selling, CALL 613-794-9199 to discuss how we can get top dollar for your home just like we did on this listing!

🔗 Check out this incredible property: https://easyagentmedia.hd.pics/170-Munro-St

Home Sweet Find: Ottawa Rents

A huge shoutout to the amazing staff at Gemini Tower for hosting an unforgettable housewarming party! Your energy and hospitality truly made the building feel like home. If you're looking for a modern, well-located rental in Ottawa, Gemini Tower is the place to be!

Are you searching for a rental property that fits your lifestyle and budget? Whether you’re a young professional, growing family, or new to the city, I’m here to help you find the perfect place to call home.

Why Rent with Me?

✔ Exclusive Listings – Get access to top rental properties, including hidden gems like Gemini Tower.

✔ Local Expertise – In-depth knowledge of Ottawa’s best neighborhoods, transit, and amenities.

✔ Stress-Free Process – Personalized service to make your move smooth and hassle-free.

Let’s Find Your Dream Rental! Looking to move into Gemini Tower or a similar high-demand building? Let’s chat! I’ll match you with the best rental options in Ottawa that fit your needs.

📍 Check out the Baseline Road neighborhood: 🔗 Explore Now

📞 Want to schedule a personal viewing? Book a call today!

Ottawa Spotlight: Celebrating Black History Month

February is a time to honour and celebrate the achievements, history, and contributions of Black Canadians.

💡 Did you know?

Ottawa is home to one of Canada’s most historic Black communities—Africville. Though originally in Halifax, the legacy of Black settlers in Ottawa dates back to the 19th century, contributing to the city's rich cultural fabric.

🌟 Ways to celebrate in Ottawa:

• Visit the Canadian Museum of History to explore exhibits on Black Canadian pioneers.

• Support local Black-owned businesses and restaurants.

• Read books by Black Canadian authors like Lawrence Hill and Esi Edugyan.

Learn more: February is Black History Month 

Event Radar: You Are Invited!

📅 Black History Month – Reconciliation and Healing

Join a thought-provoking discussion on education, reconciliation, and community building.

• 🗓 February 28, 2025 | 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM

• 📍 Tabaret Hall, 550 Cumberland Street, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N8

• 🎤 Keynote Speaker: HRM Queen Vicky Lextar of Omanye Royal Kingdom

• 🎓 Distinguished Guest Speaker: Professor Pascasie Minani

• 🎟 Free Event – Register at Eventbrite

💃 SoulRhythms – A Celebration of Afro-Caribbean Dance

Whether you're a beginner or a dance pro, experience the vibrant energy of Afro-Caribbean dance! This 45-minute movement class will connect your mind, body, and soul to the beats of Africa and the Caribbean.

• 🗓 February 25 - June 17, 2025, every Tuesday at 7 PM

• 📍 National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa, ON K1P 5W1

• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 All ages 7+ welcome!

• 🎟 Free Event – Add to Your Calendar

Kat’s Community: Meet, Network, Grow!

Ottawa’s entrepreneurial scene is thriving, and Business Network Ottawa (BNO) is at the heart of it! What started as a simple idea to bring together like-minded professionals has quickly grown into a dynamic community of over 100 entrepreneurs, business owners, and industry leaders—all eager to connect, collaborate, and support one another.

Our 2nd Coffee Meet-up at Dao Café was a perfect example of what BNO is all about: genuine connections, great conversations, and valuable business insights—all over a cup of coffee. From marketing pros and real estate experts to tech innovators and local service providers, the event was buzzing with opportunities to learn and grow together.

💡 Why Join Business Network Ottawa?

✔ Expand Your Network – Meet motivated professionals and potential business partners.

✔ Learn & Share Insights – Gain real-world advice from industry experts.

✔ Support & Collaborate – Build relationships with Ottawa’s growing business community.

✨ Ready to grow your business and make meaningful connections? Join Business Network Ottawa today and be part of a community that’s making things happen!

📩 Want to attend the next meet-up? Let’s connect! Reach out to learn more about upcoming events and how you can get involved.

Email [email protected] and SUBSCRIBE to Kat’s Daily Realty Newsletter!

Get Social: Connect, Chat, and Collaborate!

Stay in the loop with the latest real estate insights, Ottawa happenings, and market updates:

• 📅 Book a FREE Consultation – Let’s strategize your next move!

• 🌐 Visit My Website – Discover why clients trust me.

• ⭐ Leave a Google Review – Share your experience!

• 📷 Follow on Instagram – Market updates, listings & insights.

• 👍 Connect on Facebook – Ottawa listings & tips for buyers/sellers.

• 📰 Subscribe to My Newsletter – Get real estate tips + local events straight to your inbox!

Let this be a reminder to chase passion, not just profit—because success follows those who love what they do!

That’s a wrap for February, but as always, I’m here to chat about real estate, Ottawa, and everything in between. Thinking about buying, selling, or investing? Let’s talk!

📞 Katherine Cabrera | 613-794-9199

📩 Email Me | [email protected]

Until next time, stay warm and stay inspired!