After a few unpredictable years, new forecasts suggest 2026 could be a better year for people in Alberta who want to buy a home. At the same time, many Canadians are feeling squeezed by higher costs and rising debt. Here is what all the recent information means for buyers, and why having the right mortgage advice matters.

A More Balanced Market Ahead

Re/Max expects home sales across Canada to go up in 2026. More people are planning to buy, including many first-time buyers who hope prices will become more manageable. Listings have increased in most parts of the country, which has helped cool the market and reduce competition.

Prices are expected to dip slightly next year, which could give Alberta homebuyers more breathing room as they shop.

Consumer Confidence Is Still Shaky

In the United States, confidence in the economy has dropped sharply. People are worried about job security, inflation and spending. While this is U.S. data, it often reflects how people feel here as well. It shows that many households are still cautious about big purchases.

More Canadians Are Struggling With Debt

Across Canada, consumer insolvencies continue to rise. Many people are finding it harder to keep up as living costs climb faster than incomes. More households are using credit cards and loans to cover everyday expenses, and eventually falling behind.

Bankruptcies have also increased, especially among renters, who often have fewer financial cushions. For homebuyers, this is a reminder that taking on the right mortgage — with payments that fit your long-term budget — is more important than ever.

Mixed Signals on Mortgage Delinquencies

Different reports show different trends. Some data says mortgage delinquencies have been rising in recent years, especially in Ontario and British Columbia as more borrowers struggle with higher renewal rates.

Other data, including a recent CMHC report, shows a small improvement nationwide. Mortgage delinquencies fell slightly in the second quarter of 2025, helped by stronger repayment trends in places like Alberta and the Prairie provinces.

Both views can be true at the same time. Alberta homeowners are holding up fairly well, but overall financial stress in Canada is still increasing. With hundreds of thousands of Canadians renewing at higher rates this year and in 2026, careful planning is essential.

Interest Rates May Come Down Next Year

Many economists think the Bank of Canada may need to lower interest rates further in 2026 to support the economy. Inflation is easing, and consumer spending has slowed. Rate cuts are not expected right away, but conditions are moving in that direction.

If rates do fall next year, Alberta buyers could benefit from slightly more affordable borrowing costs.

Alberta’s Economic Outlook

Canada’s economy avoided a recession this year, but growth has been weak. Alberta’s energy sector continues to help support the province, though household spending is still soft. As inflation cools and trade uncertainty settles, economic conditions should slowly improve.

What This Means If You Plan to Buy

For Albertans thinking about buying in 2026, the timing could be positive. More listings, softer prices and potential interest rate cuts may make it easier to enter the market without the pressure we saw in previous years.

However, because many Canadians are financially stretched, it is more important than ever to make sure your mortgage fits your budget and long-term plans.

As your Alberta mortgage broker, I can help you understand your options and make decisions that set you up for success. I can support you by:

• helping you figure out how much you can comfortably afford
• finding mortgage options that match your goals and protect you from future rate changes
• guiding you through lender requirements during a time when borrowers face more scrutiny
• helping you get competitive rates and terms

If you’re planning to buy in 2026 or want advice about your renewal, I’m here to help you move forward with confidence.