The holidays are behind us, and we're hitting the ground running. January is always a time of excitement and planning, and we are already seeing great momentum building for the year ahead.

 

Thank you for choosing us as your partners—let’s make 2026 an incredible year together.

 

As we head into 2026, the latest employment data offers a clearer picture of the shifting economy. Here are three key takeaways from the recent Bureau of Labor Statistics report:

 

Unemployment has risen to 4.6%: While this is the highest level since October 2021, the increase is driven largely by more people entering the workforce rather than permanent layoffs.

 

Policy is driving job losses: Nearly half of the net employment loss this year comes from government efficiency (DOGE) cuts, rather than purely economic factors.

 

The trend is cooling: The "heat" has officially left the labor market. Hiring averages have dropped significantly, signaling we are settling into a much quieter period for job growth.

Understanding these broader economic shifts is vital as we look at the year ahead. 

 

If you’re curious how this might impact the real estate market, let’s chat.

 

A new study presented to the RMOW identifies fourplexes as the “highest and best use” for local infill housing, offering better financial viability than duplexes or laneway homes. To encourage these builds, Council is now looking to simplify zoning rules and modestly raise height limits later this year—a move Mayor Jack Crompton supports to help bring families and vibrancy back to established neighbourhoods.

While 2025 has been a historically slow year for real estate—lower even than 2008—economic conditions are finally turning a corner. We avoided a technical recession with strong Q3 growth, and unemployment has dropped to its lowest level in 16 months. 

 

While challenges remain, a strengthening economy may be just what the market needs to gain momentum in the new year.

We’re proud to share that as part of Rennie & Associates Realty, our listings now have access to Forbes Global Properties—an exclusive international platform connecting properties with buyers across 600+ key markets worldwide. This partnership offers unparalleled exposure, premium marketing, and the prestige of one of the world’s most trusted brands—available only through Rennie in British Columbia.

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