Waiting for the “Perfect Rate” Can Cost Sellers More Than They Realize

With the Bank of Canada holding the policy rate at 2.25%, many homeowners are asking the same question: Should I sell now—or wait for better conditions?

It’s a fair question. But in today’s market, waiting for perfection often comes at a real cost.

Rate Stability Reduces One Major Risk

When rates stop moving, one of the biggest unknowns disappears. Buyers can plan. Sellers can price with confidence. Transactions become more predictable.

That predictability has value.

Historically, markets with stable rates tend to see:

• More consistent buyer activity

• Fewer failed deals due to financing

• Stronger execution on properly priced homes

Waiting for a rate cut may feel safe—but it’s not always strategic.

Timing the Market vs. Controlling the Outcome

Many sellers delay because they’re trying to time the market. The reality is that very few sellers ever time it perfectly.

What they can control is:

• How their home is positioned

• How it compares to current inventory

• How it’s priced relative to buyer expectations today

In a rate-stable environment, these factors matter more than macro forecasts.

When rates eventually move—up or down—competition often moves with them. More sellers enter the market. Buyer behaviour shifts. Leverage changes.

Clarity today can be stronger than optimism about tomorrow.

Buyer Demand Doesn’t Wait for Headlines

Most serious buyers aren’t waiting for central bank announcements. They’re driven by life events: growing families, job changes, relocations, and long-term plans.

With financing conditions no longer tightening, those buyers are active—and selective.

Sellers who wait too long often face:

• Increased competing inventory

• Buyers with more options

• Greater pressure to negotiate

Early movers tend to face fewer comparisons and less downward pressure.

The Cost of Inaction Is Rarely Obvious—Until It Is

Holding off can mean:

• Higher carrying costs

• Missed demand windows

• Listing into a more crowded market later

These costs don’t show up in headlines, but they impact net results.

In contrast, sellers who act with preparation and intent often secure stronger outcomes—even in “quiet” markets.

Bottom Line

The Bank of Canada’s rate hold at 2.25% has created a window of clarity. Not excitement. Not panic. Clarity.

For sellers, clarity is often the best environment to act—before conditions shift and competition increases.

Waiting feels safe.
Prepared action is often smarter.