As the spring season blossoms, Niagara offers a plethora of local events and activities that celebrate our community’s spirit and creativity. Engaging with these events not only provides enjoyment but also strengthens our local economy and fosters community connections.

🌸 Upcoming Local Events and Activities

🎨 Paint Like Bob Ross – April 17, 2025

Experience a relaxing evening of painting at The Exchange with a certified Bob Ross instructor. All materials are provided, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned artists.

📍 Location: The Exchange, 5943 Sylvia Place, Niagara Falls
🕒 Time: 6:30 PM
💵 Cost: $45 Non-Members / $35 Members
🔗 Event Details

🎶 80’s Rock Invasion – April 19, 2025

Relive the electrifying sounds of the 1980s with live performances from iconic rock bands. A night filled with nostalgia and high-energy music awaits.

📍 Location: Fallsview Casino Resort, Niagara Falls
🕒 Time: 8:00 PM
🔗 Event Details

🌺 Orchid Show at the Floral Showhouse – Until April 27, 2025

Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and fragrances of exotic orchids at this annual show, showcasing a stunning variety of species.

📍 Location: Floral Showhouse, Niagara Falls
🕒 Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
🔗 Event Details

🛍️ Niagara Falls Farmers’ Market – Every Saturday

Support local farmers and artisans by visiting the weekly market offering fresh produce, handmade goods, and more.

📍 Location: MacBain Community Centre, 7150 Montrose Road, Niagara Falls
🕒 Time: 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM
🔗 Market Details

🌿 Why Supporting Local Matters

Participating in local events and shopping from local vendors invigorates our community’s economy and preserves the unique character of Niagara. It’s an investment in our neighbors, friends, and the future of our region.

Canada is entering a new era of political and economic recalibration. With Mark Carney now sworn in as Prime Minister and a snap federal election called for April 28, 2025, all eyes are on what comes next — particularly for homeowners, buyers, and investors trying to anticipate the direction of the housing market.

Add in persistent U.S. tariffs on key Canadian exports and still-elevated inflation, and it’s clear that the coming months will be critical.

Here’s what to expect as the market adjusts to new leadership, a pending election, and the ongoing balancing act between interest rates, affordability, and supply.

1. Carney’s Policy Signals: What They Mean for Housing

📌 As a former Bank of Canada Governor, Mark Carney is known for fiscal caution and economic stability.
📉 His early decision to cancel the consumer carbon tax (effective April 1) may reduce cost pressure on homeowners.
🗳️ He’s also signaled that housing affordability will be a core election issue, with expectations of targeted platform commitments.

What This Could Mean:

• More support for builders to improve housing supply

• Tighter controls on foreign ownership to prioritize domestic demand

• Incentives or expanded access for first-time buyers

📌 Expect markets to pause slightly until the election clarifies which direction housing policy will take.

2. Interest Rates and Mortgage Market Stability

🏦 The Bank of Canada remains on a measured rate cut path. While inflation has softened, tariff-related cost increases are still a risk.
🔹 The U.S. tariffs — 25% on steel and aluminum, and a 10% tariff on oil (starting April 2) — could create upward price pressure, affecting interest rate strategy.

What to Watch:

• BoC could slow or pause rate cuts if inflation re-accelerates.

• Mortgage lenders will remain cautious with fixed-rate pricing, especially on longer terms.

• The spread between fixed and variable rates will continue to tighten.

📌 If you’re up for renewal, consider shorter fixed terms or hybrid strategies to retain flexibility.

3. Will Prices Climb Again After the Election?

🔹 Buyer demand is expected to rise in Q2 and Q3, especially if rates fall again post-election.
🔹 However, uncertainty until April 28 may create a temporary slowdown in listings and sales.
🔹 Builders are still facing elevated construction costs, meaning new supply won’t flood the market.

Market Outlook:

• Spring may see a surge in activity, especially from first-time buyers trying to get in ahead of further price increases.

• Suburban and smaller markets could see the most immediate growth as affordability improves.

• Major urban centres may remain stable until more clarity on housing reform emerges.

4. What Buyers and Homeowners Should Do Now

📍 Buyers:

• If your budget allows, consider buying before the election while competition is lower.

• Pre-approval is key — lenders are tightening in advance of policy shifts.

📍 Homeowners:

• Use this time to review your mortgage strategy before new rates or regulations arrive.

• Consider renewing into a flexible product that allows you to adjust post-election.

📍 Sellers:

• Prepare listings for late spring if you want to take advantage of post-election optimism.

• Ensure your property stands out — buyers will still be value-conscious.

Conclusion

Canada’s housing market is once again at a crossroads. With a new Prime Minister and an election weeks away, the next chapter will be shaped by policy choices and voter sentiment.

📉 Rates may continue to fall, but not without interruptions.
🏡 Prices could rise again — but more gradually and unevenly across regions.
📊 The smart move right now is to stay informed, stay flexible, and plan ahead.