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CMHC Just Cut Its Housing Forecast — What It Means If You're Buying, Selling, or Renewing

  Published July 28, 2026 Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation quietly downgraded its outlook for the rest of 2026 last week, and the new numbers are worth a look no matter which side of the housing market you're standing on. The federal housing agency's Summer 2026 update now calls for slower growth, softer home prices, fewer new builds and continued easing in rental markets right through the end of the year — with a split that leaves Ontario and B.C. looking a lot different from the Prairies and Quebec. Here's what's actually in the update, and what it means for your specific situation. What CMHC changed The agency's baseline call for 2026 is a Canadian economy growing at just 0.7%, with high borrowing costs, weak population growth and cautious buyers keeping a lid on demand even as affordability has technically improved. The practical result, nationally: Housing starts are expected to fall to about 241,400 units this year, down from 259,028 in 2025 Resale acti...

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Battle Against the Flames: Aftermath of the Major Wildfire Near Athens

 

In the wake of a devastating wildfire that swept through the northern fringes of Athens, Greece, authorities and firefighters are grappling with the aftermath. Here’s what we know:

  • The Blaze: The wildfire, which began on Sunday afternoon, quickly escalated due to strong winds and tinder-dry pine forests. These conditions were exacerbated by the scorching summer temperatures, making it an exceptionally dangerous fire.

  • Evacuations: Hospitals, residential suburbs, and even monasteries were evacuated as the flames advanced. A children’s hospital, a military hospital, and a children’s home were among the facilities cleared. Evacuation orders were issued for more than a dozen areas, including Marathon and several Athens suburbs.

  • Emergency Response: Over 670 firefighters, backed by specialized wildfire teams and armed forces personnel, battled the flames. More than 180 vehicles were deployed, along with 30 water-dropping planes and helicopters providing aerial support.

  • Human Impact: Two firefighters sustained minor injuries, and several civilians were treated for smoke inhalation. Police officers heroically carried elderly residents to safety, their efforts captured against a backdrop of a night sky turned red from the flames.

  • Environmental Toll: The fire ravaged pine forests that had already suffered from repeated heat waves during the summer. Greece experienced its hottest June and July ever recorded, following the warmest winter.

As the dust settles, the scars left by this wildfire serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for climate resilience and effective disaster management. The battle against the flames continues, but the community’s resilience shines through as they come together to rebuild and protect their beloved landscape.


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