RBC's latest Home Ownership Poll reveals that 61% of Quebecers believe there is no perfect time to buy a home, a sentiment driven by economic uncertainty and rising costs. The survey, conducted between April 23 and May 3, 2026, highlights that 74% of Quebecers find economic uncertainty makes it difficult to determine the right time to enter the housing market. Additionally, 78% of respondents in the province feel that home ownership demands more sacrifices today compared to previous generations.

The data indicates a divergence in market perception between the general population and prospective buyers. While 57% of all Quebec respondents identify the current environment as a seller's market, only 12% view it as a buyer's market. Among those intending to purchase a home within two years, 26% believe now is the right time to buy. This group cites lower home prices (58%) and lower interest rates (54%) as key factors enabling their purchase, though 53% fear a small window of opportunity before prices rise again.

Financial pressures are significantly impacting savings and spending habits. Nationally, 71% of prospective buyers report that inflation is causing them to save less for a home. Consequently, many are making substantial trade-offs, including delaying major purchases (69%), postponing vacations (62%), and overhauling spending habits (60%). In Quebec specifically, 76% of respondents anticipate that most buyers will experience some level of financial shock when purchasing their first home.

Confidence in navigating the market remains low. Only 49% of prospective buyers nationally feel confident making homebuying decisions in today's market, and just 56% believe they have the necessary information. This uncertainty extends to homeowners facing mortgage renewal, with only 44% expressing confidence in their decision-making regarding their mortgage. As a result, 82% of prospective buyers and those approaching renewal emphasize the importance of expert advice.

Key Survey Findings

The following table summarizes selected responses from the RBC 2026 Home Ownership Poll, comparing prospective buyers with general sentiment in Quebec and Canada.

Trade-offs Required to Buy a Home

Prospective buyers are increasingly resorting to significant financial adjustments to afford a home.

Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) has appointed Sian Hurrell and Robin Beer as Co-CEOs of RBC Europe Limited (RBCEL) to accelerate growth across its European operations and maximise opportunities from its combined business portfolio. The appointments, effective immediately, reflect RBC's strategy to strengthen its presence in the region. Sian Hurrell and Robin Beer will set the strategic direction for Europe, working with the leadership team to deliver sustainable growth. They will also be responsible for governance and regulatory oversight for RBC's capital markets and wealth management activities in Europe. Both executives will retain their current roles as Head of Capital Markets Europe and Head of Global Sales & Relationship Management and CEO of RBC Wealth Management Europe, respectively.

Strategic Expansion in Europe

RBC has established a strong European platform spanning three business lines: Asset Management, Capital Markets, and Wealth Management. The bank has steadily grown its Capital Markets business across client sectors and geographies, focusing on areas where it has a clear competitive advantage. Significant investment in Wealth Management, notably the integration of Brewin Dolphin, has positioned RBC as one of the top five U.K. providers. The bank now employs over 5,400 people in 11 countries across Europe.

Leadership Commentary

Neil McLaughlin, Group Head, RBC Wealth Management, emphasised the importance of the U.K. and Europe in RBC's global growth ambitions. "With the integration of RBC Brewin Dolphin, the U.K. and Europe are an important part of our global growth ambitions and we're focused on building our presence in the market," said McLaughlin. "In a time of global change around trade and in a fragmented market, RBC is focused on providing trusted insight and advice to more clients across the region."

Derek Neldner, Group Head, RBC Capital Markets, highlighted the readiness to accelerate growth. "After many years of building and investment, we are ready to accelerate our growth ambitions in Europe," said Neldner. "We have three strong European businesses, a trusted reputation, enviable financial strength and top talent. By working cohesively across the region, we will use our combined scale to empower growth, serve more clients and win market share."

RBC's European Business Lines

RBC operates in Europe through three key businesses, combining global insight with local knowledge to provide tailored solutions:

RBC first opened its office in London in 1910 and has since expanded its footprint across the continent. The bank serves clients in banking, investments, wealth management, and capital markets, leveraging its global scale to drive growth in the region.