The Bank of Canada sets its key overnight policy rate eight times each year on a fixed schedule. These announcements influence borrowing costs for consumers and businesses across Canada, including mortgage rates, home equity lines of credit, and lending conditions. Here are the confirmed dates for 2026:

• January 28, 2026

• March 18, 2026

• April 29, 2026

• June 10, 2026

• July 15, 2026

• September 2, 2026

• October 28, 2026

• December 9, 2026

On four of these dates (January, April, July, and October), the Bank also releases its Monetary Policy Report (MPR) — a detailed assessment of inflation, growth, and economic risks. These reports often provide deeper insight into the BoC’s thinking and can help markets anticipate future moves.

Where Rates Stand Now

At its final 2025 announcement on December 10, the Bank of Canada held its policy rate steady at 2.25% — the target for the overnight rate that influences variable mortgage rates and borrowing costs. Economists widely expected this hold as the central bank indicated it may keep rates at this level throughout 2026 unless inflation or economic conditions shift significantly.

Analysts from major banks and economic research firms have echoed this view, suggesting the BoC will likely remain on hold through the first half of the year and possibly beyond, depending on incoming data on inflation and growth.

Why This Matters for Real Estate

Although the BoC’s overnight rate doesn’t automatically change mortgage rates, it sets the tone for borrowing costs. Here’s how these scheduled announcements can impact the housing market:

For Buyers

• Stability could mean better affordability: If the Bank keeps rates unchanged, variable mortgage holders may see steadier payments, and lenders may offer competitive pricing.

• Rate announcement days can influence fixed-rate pricing: Even when the policy rate isn’t changed, expectations around future moves are reflected in bond markets — which can make fixed-rate mortgages more or less expensive around these dates.

For Sellers

• Buyer confidence may be higher in stable rate environments: Predictable borrowing costs can make buyers more comfortable making offers.

• Negotiation power can shift with expectations: If markets start to price in future rate cuts or increases, buyer urgency and seller pricing strategies may adjust accordingly.

What to Watch in 2026

• January 28: The first BoC rate announcement of the year often sets the tone.

• Monetary Policy Reports (January, April, July, October): These give deeper insight into economic risks and can help predict longer-term rate direction.

• Inflation & Employment Data: The BoC bases decisions on inflation and labour market performance — so watching CPI releases and jobs reports leading up to each rate date is key.

Bottom Line: Plan With the Schedule in Mind

Instead of waiting for rates to change, buyers and sellers can use the Bank of Canada’s rate schedule as part of their real estate planning. Knowing when decisions are made and the economic context surrounding them helps you make more informed timing decisions — whether you’re locking in a mortgage, planning a renewal, or considering listing your home.