Sixty-four percent of Canadians say you can never really know when the right time is to buy a home, according to RBC's latest Home Ownership Poll. The survey of 1,753 adults, conducted between April 23 and May 3, 2026, also found that 75% of prospective buyers intending to purchase within two years say economic uncertainty is making them more cautious, while 71% report that inflation is causing them to save less for a home. Financial trade-offs have intensified since January, with 69% of near-term buyers now saying they must delay major purchases, up from 54% at the start of the year. Despite the caution, 45% of those planning to buy within two years believe now is the right time to purchase, compared with 27% of all Canadians polled. The poll highlights a strong appetite for guidance, with 82% of prospective buyers and homeowners approaching mortgage renewal saying expert advice is essential when navigating major home ownership decisions.
Royal Bank of CanadaPoll shows cautious homebuying sentiment, which may reduce mortgage demand, but also highlights need for expert advice, potentially benefiting RBC's advisory services.