CMHC reports that Growth in house prices will slow as housing market becomes more balanced

Growth in house prices will slow as housing market becomes more balanced

For 2008, the demand will moderate.
Existing home sales, as measured by
the Multiple Listing service (MLS®),
are expected to decrease by 8.5 per
cent to 475,900 units. In 2009, the
trend will be similar with another
decrease to 465,000 units (-2.3 per
cent). MLS® sales will step back given
a moderating demand due to rising
mortgage carrying costs.
Despite a slowdown of MLS® sales
and a general ease on the market,
demand remains strong by historical
standards. For 2008 and 2009,
growth in the MLS® average price will
remain above inflation. Prices will
reach $323,000 (+5.1 per cent) in
2008 and $333,500 (+3.3 per cent)
in 2009.

It will be interesting to see if this comes true!
Mark