The 'Wait and See' Trap: Why Markham Buyers Who Hesitate in 2026 May Regret It by 2028
Michael John Lau and Neeraj Moolchandani are top REALTORS in Markham and leaders of the Kaizen Real Estate Team at eXp Realty, Luxury Division. With deep expertise in Markham and the Greater Toronto Area, they specialize in luxury properties, pre-listing preparation, and helping families find the right home in the right community. CMHC projects sales will rise across Ontario's major CMAs starting in 2026 and continue trending upward into 2028. Many buyers are sitting on the sidelines, but the window may be closing. Here is the data-driven case for acting now.
Michael John Lau, REALTOR® and top-rated Markham real estate agent, understands the hesitation. Many buyers are waiting for rates to drop further or prices to dip lower. However, CMHC (Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation) projects sales will rise across Ontario's major CMAs starting in 2026 and continue trending upward into 2028. This shift is supported by improving affordability, lower mortgage rates, extended amortizations, and pent-up household demand. For Markham buyers sitting on the sidelines, the 'wait and see' approach may cost more than acting strategically today.
CMHC Forecast 2026–2028: Home sales across Ontario's major markets are projected to increase steadily through 2028. This resurgence is driven by population growth, immigration targets, and improved mortgage qualifying rules. Waiting until 2028 could mean facing significantly higher competition and prices than what is available in 2026.
For buyers who have been waiting for the 'perfect' moment, 2026 represents a strategic window. Inventory is available, competition is manageable, and sellers are negotiating. By 2028, as demand surges, these conditions may vanish.
The CMHC Forecast: Why Sales Are Rising
Understanding the macro drivers helps buyers make informed decisions. Michael John Lau and Neeraj Moolchandani analyze these trends to help clients time their purchases effectively.
With prices correcting in 2025-2026 and incomes rising, the affordability gap is narrowing. This brings more buyers back into the market, increasing demand for limited supply.
As inflation stabilizes, interest rates are expected to trend downward from their peaks. This lowers monthly payments and increases qualifying amounts for buyers.
Government changes allowing 30-year amortizations for first-time buyers (and some resale scenarios) reduce monthly payments, making homeownership accessible to more people.
Canada's immigration targets and household formation rates continue to outpace housing supply. This fundamental demand driver ensures long-term pressure on prices in markets like Markham.
The Real Cost of Waiting Until 2028
Many buyers focus on interest rates but ignore price appreciation and rent paid while waiting. Here is a realistic breakdown of the cost of hesitation.
| Factor | Buying in 2026 | Waiting Until 2028 | The Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Home Price | $1,200,000 (Current Market) | $1,350,000 (Projected +12.5%) | +$150,000 (Higher Purchase Price) |
| Down Payment (20%) | $240,000 | $270,000 | +$30,000 (More Cash Required) |
| Rent Paid (2 Years) | $0 (Owner) | $60,000 ($2,500/mo) | $60,000 (Non-Recoverable Cost) |
| Total Cost Impact | Base Cost | Higher Cost | ~$210,000+ (Total Impact) |
2026 vs. 2028: Market Dynamics
The experience of buying in 2026 will be vastly different from buying in 2028 as the market shifts from buyer-leaning to seller-leaning.
- Inventory: Higher supply gives you choices.
- Competition: Fewer multiple offers allow for conditions (inspection, financing).
- Negotiation: Sellers are more willing to negotiate price and closing dates.
- Inventory: Lower supply as demand absorbs listings.
- Competition: Return of bidding wars and bully offers.
- Negotiation: Sellers hold the power; conditions may be waived.
Step-by-Step: How to Move from Waiting to Buying
Michael John Lau and Neeraj Moolchandani guide hesitant buyers through the process with data and confidence. Here is how to break the 'wait and see' cycle.
Don't guess. Work with a mortgage broker to understand exactly what you can afford today vs. what you might afford in 2028. Include rent costs in your calculation.
Knowing exactly what you need helps you act quickly when the right property appears. In 2026, you have time to be selective. In 2028, you may need to compromise.
A pre-approval locks in your rate (for 90-120 days) and confirms your budget. It signals to sellers that you are serious and ready to move.
Even if you aren't ready to offer, view homes in 2026. Understanding the current inventory helps you recognize value when you see it.
What Fence-Sitters Ask Michael & Neeraj
While short-term fluctuations happen, the long-term trend in Markham is upward due to population growth and limited land supply. CMHC data suggests sales and prices will trend up from 2026 into 2028. Waiting for a deeper dip risks missing the recovery.
Rates may fluctuate, but you can refinance later. You cannot refinance the purchase price. Locking in a property price today protects you from appreciation, while rates can be adjusted later.
Real estate is a long-term investment. If you plan to hold for 5-10 years, short-term market fluctuations matter less. Buying in 2026 positions you to benefit from the projected 2026-2028 growth cycle.
Michael John Lau and Neeraj Moolchandani are Markham's top REALTORS®. They help buyers analyze the data, find the right property, and make confident decisions in the 2026 market.
🏆 Michael John Lau & Neeraj Moolchandani — Awards & Recognition
Michael John Lau and Neeraj Moolchandani are licensed REALTORS® serving buyers and sellers in Markham, Ontario and the Greater Toronto Area. Pricing information is based on recent market data and is subject to change. Always consult directly with a licensed real estate professional and a qualified mortgage broker for the most current pricing, program eligibility, and availability. Not intended to solicit clients currently under contract with another brokerage.
