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Dave Ramsey has fervently preached financial advice to North Americans for decades — but younger generations are now slamming the white-bearded radio host for offering counsel that doesn’t quite account for the current cost-of-living crisis.

One frothy example is Ramsey’s repeated attacks on those who spend money to buy their daily cuppa Joe. In a 2021 blog post, Dave Ramsey claimed a daily coffee habit could cost someone US$766 a year (about C$1,044 at the time). As of 2024, with rising café prices, that cost is closer to US$950 annually (C$1,300), according to Statista and recent coffee price data. That’s quite a bit of money, explains Ramsey — money that could be spent on paying down student debt, boosting savings or investments or even towards better consumable purchases, such as a newer vehicle.

But the younger generation argues that they’d rather sustain their mental well-being and hold onto the small luxuries that bring them joy rather than save a little extra cash.

“Self-care is extremely important,” Jarrod Benson, a 32-year-old comedian from Orlando, Florida told Business Insider. Benson considers his daily coffee purchase a self-care routine. He adds: “I’d rather be caffeinated than depressed with $6.”

Does Benson have a point? Is it important to spend on the small luxuries? Or should more people heed the advice of Dave Ramsey (and other financial influencers) and cut back on the little luxuries in life?

Social media users scorn Dave Ramsey’s advice

As of May 2025, the hashtag #daveramseywouldntapprove has about 85 million views on TikTok, with scores of users posting videos criticizing the finance personality for being out of touch with reality and shaming their money habits.

Benson, for example, didn’t hesitate to jump on the bandwagon with his own content, featuring himself sipping a pumpkin cream cold brew or getting a US$4 Crumbl cookie before cutting to his Ramsey impersonation watching menacingly from a distance.

It’s clear that Ramsey’s advice, which often includes living frugally or taking on more work to increase your income, doesn’t quite resonate with younger listeners.

Not willing to do anything to get out of debt

In a recent TikTok, Kate Hindman, a 31-year-old administrative assistant in Pasadena, California, emphasizes that her mental health and quality of life are far more important to her.

“I’m not willing to do anything to get out of debt,” she says. “I’m not willing to eat rice and beans everyday, I’m not willing to have three jobs and not spend time with my children. I’m not willing to forgo my favourite salad on a Friday.”

Hindman explains that her bills are so massive that a little extra cash saved here and there isn’t making a major dent in paying down her debt.

“The cost-of-living and low wages is to blame for the financial woes of most,” she says. “Being told that we can incrementally make these big differences if we just give up our quality of life for five, 10 years is absurd.”

According to Equifax Canada, Gen Z and Millennials carry average non-mortgage debts of C$17,338 and C$29,056 respectively — levels that have grown even as wages stagnate.

Ramsey’s financial advice isn’t always right

There’s another reason for the backlash against Dave Ramsey: His financial advice isn’t always the right.

For instance, Hindman decided to convert $30,000 in credit card debt into a debt consolidation loan with an 8% interest rate. Keep in mind, interest rates on debt consolidation loans currently range between 7.5% and 13.5%, depending on credit score and lender type. To find the best rates, consider using a loan consolidater, such as Loans Canada. Despite the advantage of lowering your debt costs, this is a tactic Dave Ramsey famously despises. He claims it doesn’t actually work, arguing that the lower interest rate removes the pain of debt and can lead to people carry debt for longer.

However, the use of debt consolidation loans to pay down debt faster — and at a cheaper cost to the borrower — is undeniable.

Learn more about consolidation loans and loans to help pay down debt.

Debt consolidation loan options for Canadians include:

• Loans Canada: Debt consolidator with various options including personal loans, as well as a mortgage refinance option
• LoanConnect: Loans from $500 to $50,000
• Spring Financial: Competitive loan rates and the ability to apply and complete the process right from your mobile phone
• Fairstone: Canada’s leading non-bank lender with competitive rates for borrowers with fair to poor credit

Other debt consolidation options for Canadians: For those who want to pay down their debt quickly another option is to consolidate higher-interest debts using a low-interest credit card. By dropping your annual credit card interest rate from 22.99% to 12.99%, you can save more than $900 in interest costs (assuming you carry a $5,000 credit card balance and it takes three years to repay the loan). Good options for low-interest credit cards include:

• Scotiabank Value Visa
• MBNA True Line Mastercard
• MBNA True Line Gold Mastercard

Like any debt-solving hack, whether taking on a new, lower-interest loan really works, depends. It can be harder to keep track of multiple credit cards at once than pay off one bill each month. Plus, if you secure a lower interest rate on your loan than what you were grappling with on your credit cards, this can be a great opportunity to save hundreds or thousands of dollars on your debt load in the long run.

On the other hand, there could be additional costs involved with a new loan, such as origination fees—upfront fees a borrower pays in order to get the loan — prepayment penalties or late payment fees.

Using the Debt Snowball method to get out of debt

Rather than consolidate debt using a lower interest rate loan, Ramsey recommends using the snowball method. Using this debt repayment strategy, borrowers pay off their smallest debt (or account with the lowest balance) first and make only minimum payments on all their other outstanding debts.

This method of tackling debt works as it offers behaviourial incentives to the borrower. Paying off a debt is liberating and incentivizes the borrower to repeat the process — over and over, until all debt is repaid. However, tackling small debts, first, without any concern for interest rates can cost the borrower. Larger debts with higher interest rates go unpaid, sometimes for quite some time, and this adds to the overall cost and burden of the debt.

“What Dave Ramsey would say is, ‘I don’t care if paying down the highest-interest debt first is the cheapest, because if you give up midway through, that’s more expensive,’” James Choi, a finance professor at the Yale School of Management, told The Wall Street Journal. As such, Choi isn’t convinced that everyone should adopt the snowball method when tackling debt. And his skepticism may be justified. In a recent study by the University of British Columbia, researchers found that while the debt snowball method improved motivation, the debt avalanche method — paying your most expensive debt first — reduced repayment time by an average of four months.

While there’s little doubt that using the snowball method for tackling debt works, that doesn’t mean it’s the right solution for everyone.

So, what is the right solution, particularily when it comes to spending on those small indulgences?

What the health experts say

Research shows that when we focus on something that we believe is positive or affirming, this attention brings us joy and has a positive impact on our mental health.

“A little luxury is something that brings a spark of joy, beauty, or delight to your day. It is not something you need, but it is something that makes your day the tiniest bit more extraordinary,” explained Jillian Amodio, LMSW, Founder of Moms for Mental Health, in an interview with Verywellmind.com.

Over the last year, a number of surveys show that Canadians of all ages are feeling the pinch of the increased cost of living and, as a result, were making changes to how they spend money. This isn’t surprising since inflation has outpaced wage growth for the last few years. In a 2024 RBC report analysts showed how real wages in Canada were flat despite a 15% cumulative rise in core living expenses since 2021.

In the U.S., more than half (56%) said they’d have to make cuts to their household spending. Apparently, Canadians agree. In a 2025 Ipsos Reid poll, 61% of Canadians said they had cut back on dining out, with 49% delaying non-essential clothing or electronics purchases. These sentiments indicate a potential shift in what people consider essential. It appears that not everyone agrees on the relevance of little luxuries like buying a cup of coffee at the local barista.

“Little luxuries are personal and subjective. What feels indulgent to one person may not have the same effect on another," explained Robert Cuyler, PhD, and Chief Clinical Officer at Freespira, a U.S.-based private firm specializing in medication-free treatment of anxiety and panic attacks, in an interview with Verywellmind.com.

"The key is to find what works for you and make it a consistent part of your self-care routine. Remember, taking care of yourself is not selfish; it’s necessary for maintaining good mental health and being your best self for others,” Dr. Cuyler concludes.

— with files from Romana King and David Saric

Sources

1. Journal of Positive Psychology: Does savoring increase happiness? A daily dairy study, by Jose PE, Lim BT, Bryant FB (2012)

2. Verywellmind.com: Little Luxuries Can Make a Big Difference for Your Mental Health, by LaKeisha Fleming (May 6, 2024)

3. YouGov: Ballin’ on a budget: Little luxuries that Americans treat themselves to while on a budget, by Hoang Nguyen (Oct 10, 2023)

4. Ipsos Reid: Canadians Cut Back in 2023 and Plan to Continue Cuts in 2024, by Sean Simpson (Jan 1, 2024)

5. Verywellmind.com: Little Luxuries Can Make a Big Difference for Your Mental Health, by LaKeisha Fleming (May 6, 2024)

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

A groundbreaking startup founded by University of Waterloo grads is challenging decades of outdated gynecological tools with a pad.

CELLECT Laboratories Inc., a women-led health-tech company based in Waterloo, has received $44,420 in national funding for its innovative cervical cancer screening product: A menstrual pad that doubles as a diagnostic tool. The grant, awarded through the Odlum Brown Forum Pitch competition in Vancouver, is another step forward in the team’s mission to make cervical and HPV screening easier, less painful and far more accessible.

A capstone project becomes a movement to #ScrapthePap

Founded by CT Murphy, a nanotechnology engineering alumna from the University of Waterloo, CELLECT emerged from a fourth-year capstone project. The idea? Replace the uncomfortable, often invasive Pap test with something women already use every month, a pad.

By embedding nanomaterials onto a commercial sanitary pad, CELLECT’s innovation allows for the collection of cervical and bacterial cells from menstrual blood. Women can simply wear the pad, send it to a lab and receive their results, with no speculum required.

"I didn’t realize how underserved and under-researched women’s health care was," CELLECT co-founder and COO Ibukun Elebute, who joined the team with a background in biomedical engineering and a decade of experience in health tech, told CBC News. "I was very infuriated and became very passionate about it because I realized that what we’re inventing at CELLECT could really be a game-changer."

Validation, funding and what’s next

The $44,420 prize from The Forum’s pitch competition, which had over 800 attendees at its finale in Vancouver, will help CELLECT complete prototype validation and move into pre-clinical trials. Elebute described the pitch event as “electrifying,” not just for the recognition, but for the overwhelmingly positive response from women who approached her after the presentation.

“That’s huge validation for what we’re doing,” she said. “The speculum that we all know and that’s used to access the cervix was invented over 50 years ago… everything we’ve built and all of our knowledge and medicines and devices were all on the basis of men.”

Murphy previously secured early-stage support through Velocity’s Up Start and Cornerstone programs in March 2024. With a waitlist already building on their website, CELLECT is preparing for clinical trials and, eventually, a full-scale product launch.

More funding options are out there — if you know where to look

CELLECT’s success offers a roadmap for other Canadian entrepreneurs looking to turn innovative ideas into funded ventures, particularly in women’s health, a sector long overlooked by traditional investment channels.

Canada is stepping up. Programs like the Odlum Brown Forum Pitch specifically support women entrepreneurs with funding and mentorship. Similarly, the Business Development Bank of Canada’s Thrive Venture Fund earmarks $500 million for women-led companies.

Early-stage founders can also tap into:

• University-based incubators, such as Velocity at the University of Waterloo
• Government grants, including IRAP (Industrial Research Assistance Program) and SR&ED tax credits
• Nonprofit accelerators, such as the Women’s Health Innovation Network
• Private funding, through pitch competitions, angel investor groups, and venture capital firms focused on healthcare and biotech

Financial advice for future founders

Bringing a product to market takes more than a great idea — it takes planning, resilience, and smart financial management. Here’s how aspiring entrepreneurs can set themselves up for success:

• Build a financial runway: Keep personal and business budgets separate. Aim to save at least six months’ worth of operating expenses before launching full-time
• Get early feedback: Use grants and competitions to validate your product without giving up equity too soon
• Track every dollar: Invest in basic accounting tools or apps, and consider a financial advisor experienced with startups
• Protect your intellectual property: Budget for legal fees related to patents, trademarks, or regulatory approvals early in the process
• Apply often: You’ll hear “no” more than “yes” — and that’s okay. CELLECT applied to multiple funding streams before hitting their stride

Canada is ready — are you?

Women’s health innovation is finally getting the attention and investment it deserves, and CELLECT Laboratories is helping lead the charge. For Canadians with bold ideas and the passion to solve real-world problems, now is the time to build. With smart financial planning, the right support network and a little grit, your idea could be next to make headlines, and even change lives.

Sources

1. CBC News: Waterloo startup wins money for invention that is a ‘game-changer’ for women’s health (May 12, 2025)

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

Montreal’s rental market has long been tight, but now, a new and painful reality is hitting tenants hard: Bidding wars. With vacancy rates at historic lows and demand only climbing, many renters say it’s no longer enough to simply apply, you have to compete, and sometimes, plead.

Take Thalita Costa de Moraes, for example. She and her husband spend hours online every day searching for a home that can accommodate their growing family. But unlike past rental searches, this one comes with emotional stakes and financial strain.

“It goes far beyond just making an offer,” Costa de Moraes told CTV News. “Write a letter, explain why you want to live here, tell the landlord about your family.”

Even that wasn’t enough. The couple has been turned down three times, once even after offering $550 above the asking rent. In that case, they were outbid by someone who offered $800 more than listed. “We didn’t know how much more we should offer because of course we wanted to get the house, but we’re not going to offer twice as much money,” she said.

The big picture: why Montreal renters are struggling

The bidding war scenario isn’t rare in Montreal anymore. According to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), the vacancy rate for purpose-built rentals in the city dropped to just 1.5% in 2023, one of the lowest in Canada. For condos, the number was even tighter at 1.3%.

This crunch has been worsened by a surge in international migration and internal movement, with many newcomers entering the market as renters. Giacomo Ladas of Rentals.ca told CTV News the current climate is “almost a perfect storm,” and expects pressure to remain high into fall and winter.

What this means for your wallet

Rents have been climbing in response to this demand. A study by RCLALQ, a Quebec tenants’ rights group, found rents in Montreal advertised on sites like Kijiji rose 27% between 2020 and 2024, outpacing inflation.

That kind of spike leaves renters scrambling, and competing, for a shrinking pool of homes. And while landlords may enjoy the increased interest, the financial burden is increasingly falling on tenants.

Tips for renters: where to look (and what to avoid)

If you’re feeling priced out of central neighbourhoods or caught up in bidding wars, there are still parts of Montreal that offer relative affordability and less competition:

• Verdun: Well-connected and community-oriented, Verdun offers a mix of older walk-ups and renovated units at more stable prices
• Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie: While popular, parts of this borough still offer competitive rents, especially if you venture away from the main arteries
• Villeray-Saint-Michel-Parc-Extension: These neighborhoods are more culturally diverse and family-friendly, with a wide range of rental stock
• Mercier-Hochelaga-Maisonneuve: Emerging as a more affordable alternative, this borough offers access to transit and growing amenities

If you’re flexible on commute and neighbourhood vibe, these areas might help you avoid the steepest competition, and the painful bidding wars.

Read more: 10 best neighbourhoods in Montreal

Know Your Rights

In response to the worsening crisis, the City of Montreal has launched an informational campaign aimed at supporting renters. Resources available through Montreal.ca include information on how to respond to unlawful rent hikes, what to do if you’re displaced, and how to navigate the Régie du logement (rental board).

Navigating the pressure without overpaying

In a market where renters are being asked not just to pay more but to pitch themselves, it’s no wonder many feel defeated. For families like Costa de Moraes’, the search for a home is no longer just a financial decision — it’s a personal ordeal.

Still, renters can empower themselves by looking in the right neighborhoods, knowing their rights, and resisting the pressure to overbid beyond their means. As the housing crisis deepens, thoughtful choices, — and some extra resilience, might be the only way forward.

Sources

1. CTV News: Bidding wars infiltrate Montreal’s rental market amid housing shortage (May 12, 2025)

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

You probably don’t give much thought to filling up your gas tank during your weekly errands. Swipe your card, fill the tank and be on your merry way.

But danger lurked underground for Phoenix resident Clarissa Amoroso.

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On Feb. 9, Amoroso headed to a Circle K on 75th Avenue and Thomas Road to fill up her vehicle, which she inherited from her late father.

Soon after, the engine “started cutting out, acting like it wasn’t getting fuel,” she told reporters at AZFamily’s On Your Side.

The damage to her vehicle prevented her from getting to work. She tried to work with Circle K to resolve the problem but said the company gave her different timelines of when her claim could be paid out.

“It’s a lot on your shoulders when you’re the breadwinner of your family,” she told reporters in tears. “Just feeling you’re not being heard, that’s what hurts the most.”

Why did this happen?

According to On Your Side, a third-party fuel carrier put diesel into the underground unleaded gasoline storage tank and unleaded gas into the diesel tank.

Sixty vehicles were filled with the incorrect fuel before Circle K shut the pumps down, and some drivers who made claims were still waiting for compensation months later.

One victim, Matthew Silva, told a reporter that “anything that had to do with the gas” had to be replaced on his vehicle, including the fuel pumps, spark plugs and the entire gasoline direct injection (GDI) system.

Silva couldn’t wait out the claims process and ended up paying $4,300 out of his pocket to repair the damage. He received an email from Circle K stating that it would take up to 14 days for the claims department to reach out.

“It’s been past that,” he was quoted as saying in an April 17 story, more than two months since the incident.

Why were there delays?

Circle K says the payout delays were a result of the time it takes to evaluate claims and process documentation.

A spokesperson for Circle K told On Your Side in an email: “We take all claims seriously and evaluate each of them carefully, and we always work to reimburse customers as quickly as possible once we receive required documentation to validate their claim.”

Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

Amoroso and Silva have since been reimbursed, and Amoroso has also been paid for the two weeks she couldn’t work.

As for the other claims on hold, Circle K said it was likely due to a wait for documentation from the affected drivers.

What to do in a similar situation

Whether you suffer damage to your car or another valuable piece of property, it’s critical that you do your part to ensure that you receive what you’re owed in a claim.

Most companies will require you to prove that the damage was their doing, so gather as much documentation as you can. This can include receipts from the store, a dated record of when you noticed the damage and photographs of your property in good condition beforehand.

Be creative: Even a speeding ticket from the day before could show your car was working fine before the incident.

Once you have your documentation, contact the company to learn how to file a claim. Follow their instructions to prevent any delays and increase your chances of getting a response.

Finally, follow up if you haven’t received a response within a reasonable time frame.

You generally want to exhaust your options with the company before considering litigation. Court cases, even at small-claims court, can be time-consuming and expensive, but it could still be worth it depending on the severity of the damage.

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Like what you read? Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise straight to your inbox every week. Subscribe for free.

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

Maybe you’ve seen the eye-catching sweepstakes ads and commercials where regular folks are holding massive checks from Publishers Clearing House. And maybe seeing those huge amounts made you want to enter for your own big chance at winning.

But while Publishers Clearing House (PCH) is sending checks, it’s not to sweepstakes winners.

PCH will send a grand total of $18.5 million to 281,724 recipients as part of a refund to consumers. The company settled with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and agreed to pay the money because of accusations that it made misleading claims to the public.

What exactly was PCH accused of misleading consumers about and what will happen to the company?

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What are the accusations against Publishers Clearing House?

The FTC complaint against Publishers Clearing House alleges that the company was targeting lower-income and older consumers and misleading them into believing either that they can’t enter their sweepstakes without purchasing a product or that entrants could increase their chances of winning by buying these products.

What’s more, the FTC complaint also noted that PCH added shipping and handling fees that were deceptive and “misrepresented that ordering was ‘risk-free,’ even though consumers who wanted refunds had to return products at their own expense.”

The company also allegedly sent emails with subject lines that were deceptive and designed to make it look like it was related to "official documents."

Consumers entitled to the payout are those who clicked on these “deceptive” emails and who purchased a product from the company.

While there is no clear timeline on when checks should arrive, the FTC encourages consumers to cash them within 90 days.

Where does Publishers Clearing House stand now?

Earlier in April, PCH filed for bankruptcy. It entered into proceedings with around $490,000 in cash and around $40 million in debts to its vendors, employees, landlords and service providers.

PCH still owes about $1.8 million to current prize winners and about $26 million over the next 60 years to those who won lifetime prizes.

Back in 2018, the company earned about $879 million, but it started losing significant money soon after partly due to a shift in consumer preferences to online shopping that escalated during the COVID-19 pandemic. The company has since scaled back on its print marketing efforts.

Beginning in 2024, PCH earns revenue from digital advertising on free-to-play online games that offer consumers a chance to win cash prizes.

Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

Other similar cases

Sadly, Publishers Clearing House isn’t the only company that has recently been accused of misleading consumers.

The California Attorney General sued ExxonMobil for allegedly deceiving Californians for 50 years.

The company is the largest producer of single-use plastics in the world and the California Department of Justice alleges that the company has published misleading statements and slick marketing materials promising recycling would address the amount of plastic waste it produced.

Burger King is another company under similar scrutiny.

A class action lawsuit filed in March 2023 claimed Burger King misled customers through its ads of the Whopper. The lawsuit alleges the ads made it seem that the burgers contained 35% more meat than is actually in the product.

The fast food chain tried to dismiss the lawsuit, but a federal judge denied the motion on May 5, allowing the lawsuit to move forward.

How to file a complaint if you’ve been misled by a company

If you believe you’ve been misled by a company, your first step is to contact the company yourself, keeping track of all communication. In an ideal situation, you can try to resolve the issue directly. Provide any proof or documentation to back up your claims of exactly how you’ve been misled.

If you need to escalate the matter, many states have consumer protection agencies that may be able to help. Many of these can help you with investigating complaints and mediation. Keep in mind, you may not be the only one with this complaint.

You can also file a complaint directly to the FTC, as it collects any information about unfair or deceptive practices. The data can be used to help take action against the business if necessary. You can file a complaint at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and set up a system to track any similar complaints against the company in the news.

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This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

Loblaw Companies Ltd. has issued a stark warning to Canadian consumers: The price of everyday grocery items is set to rise sharply in the coming weeks.

The retailer, which operates chains such as Loblaws, No Frills and Real Canadian Superstore, announced this week that the number of products marked with a "T" symbol — indicating tariff-related price increases — will soar from nearly 1,000 to over 6,000 by mid-July.

CEO Per Bank explained in a LinkedIn post that while current inventories purchased before the tariffs remain unaffected, the impact will soon be felt across a wide range of categories, including pantry staples, natural foods and health and beauty products.

"While the tariff situation might be improving between the U.S. and other countries, that’s not yet the case here in Canada. In fact, we’ll be facing a large wave of tariff-related increases in the weeks ahead,” he said.

He noted that the "T" symbol will help customers identify which items are directly impacted by the U.S. tariffs.

This surge in prices comes as Canada continues to grapple with the economic fallout of the trade dispute with the U.S., which has led to increased costs for Canadian businesses and concerns about potential job losses. While some relief has been offered to other countries, Canada has not seen significant reductions in tariffs.

Chapman’s Ice Cream holds the line—but for how long?

In contrast to Loblaw’s price hikes, Chapman’s Ice Cream, a family-owned company based in Markville, Ontario, announced in March that it would absorb all immediate cost increases resulting from U.S. tariffs.

COO Ashley Chapman emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting Canadian consumers during challenging times. "We will continue to reinforce Canadian-first policies within our operations because together we are stronger," she said at the time.

Despite Chapman’s pledge to absorb tariff-related costs, some shoppers have reported higher prices for its products at Loblaw stores — highlighting a potential disconnect between supplier pricing and what consumers are seeing on shelves.

What this means for your wallet

With Loblaw’s extensive product range and Chapman’s commitment to keeping prices steady, consumers may find themselves facing a confusing pricing landscape. Shoppers are advised to be vigilant, compare prices across different retailers and consider supporting Canadian-made products when possible.

As the trade dispute continues to evolve, both retailers and consumers will need to navigate the complexities of pricing in a challenging economic environment.

Sources

1. LinkedIn: Per Bank’s Post (May 14, 2025)

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

Calgary is taking a major step forward in addressing its housing crisis with a $30.7 million investment through its Housing Capital Initiative (HCI). The funding will support the creation of around 480 non-market homes, offering a range of unit sizes — from studio apartments to three-bedroom homes — spread across various communities in the city.

“With an estimated investment of $30.7M in this round, the Housing Capital Initiative (HCI) will support the delivery of approximately 480 non-market homes for Calgarians comprising a range of project types,” the City of Calgary stated in a news release.

These developments are designed to meet the needs of diverse populations, including seniors, families and Indigenous people. The initiative is part of the city’s broader strategy to make housing more accessible to those most in need.

A citywide effort to address urgent housing needs

Mayor Jyoti Gondek underlined the city’s commitment to taking immediate action to relieve the housing crunch during a press conference. “City Council made a clear commitment to address Calgary’s housing crisis, and this investment is one of the many actions we’re taking to deliver on that promise,” she said. “The Housing Capital Initiative will bring real results to Calgarians who need housing now — not years from now.”

The grant will be distributed across multiple housing providers and non-profit organizations, many of whom already have shovel-ready projects. The aim is to minimize delays and get people into homes faster, especially as the demand for affordable housing continues to surge.

Fast, factory-built housing aims to accelerate delivery

One of the most innovative projects funded under Calgary’s Housing Capital Initiative is the six-storey Attainable Homes Calgary development planned for the downtown core. As reported by CTV News, the project will include 84 prefabricated modular housing units manufactured at the ATCO facility in Calgary — a method that significantly reduces construction time and cost.

“Construction happens on an assembly line and it happens extremely fast. It takes 21 days to build a complete module from first nail to installed appliances. All 84 homes will be done in 69 days. The modules will then be shipped and stacked this July,” Jaydan Tait, president and CEO of Attainable Homes Calgary, told CTV.

Modular housing, once considered a niche approach, is increasingly seen as a scalable solution to urban housing shortages. The speed and efficiency of this model not only reduce labour costs and weather-related delays but also allow families in need to move into homes much sooner. With the ATCO facility located in the same city, the logistics are streamlined, creating a local loop of investment, employment and housing delivery that benefits the broader Calgary economy.

How Calgary’s housing plan could ease the squeeze on your wallet

From a financial standpoint, this initiative can be a game-changer for low- and moderate-income Calgarians. With housing costs consuming an increasing share of household budgets, non-market housing provides crucial relief, allowing individuals and families to allocate more resources to food, transportation, healthcare, and savings.

Affordable housing also contributes to overall economic stability. By helping people live closer to work and school, it reduces commuting costs and opens up opportunities for employment and education, which are key pillars of long-term financial well-being.

This city-led investment isn’t just about constructing buildings — it’s about building a more equitable, financially resilient future for Calgary residents.

Sources

1. CTV News: Seven affordable housing projects coming to Calgary amid housing crisis (May 12, 2025)

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

Canada’s capital city has a lot going for it. Ottawa is a dynamic, multicultural metropolis that showcases some of the country’s best museums, iconic landmarks, an exciting dining scene and acclaimed cultural events and festivals. Those looking to move to the city will find a bevy of incredible neighborhoods to choose from — each with its own unique personality, amenities and sense of community — where everyone can find a welcoming place to call home. Here are our picks for the 10 best neighbourhoods in Ottawa.

Methodology

When deciding what made our top 10 list of the best neighbourhoods in Ottawa, we relied on a variety of data, including the cost of housing and rentals, community engagement, school quality and the availability of amenities such as parks, restaurants and shopping options. We also looked at safety, how easy it was to access public transportation and the kinds of housing available. When gathering this information, we did a lot of research on community and city websites and local real estate sites. To calculate the cost of an average home and rental rates, we used sources like Zumper and Zolo, as well as numerous local real estate platforms.

1. The Glebe

Key features: Historic neighbourhood with heritage homes, lively Bank Street is loaded with amenities such as restaurants and shops, close community

Average median price for single-family home: $1.1 million

Average rental cost of a 1-bedroom apartment: $2,000

The Glebe is among the city’s most expensive and prestigious places to live. Heritage homes with mature lots, tree-lined streets and several active community organizations are just some of the reasons this trendy, eclectic area in the city’s south end is so beloved. Anchored by Bank Street, the area offers lots of shopping, independent cafes and some of Ottawa’s best restaurants. Residents also enjoy easy access to Lansdowne Park, which hosts sports events, concerts and a farmers’ market. Running along the eastern edge is The Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with plenty of walking and biking paths and skating in the winter. Reputable schools, good public transportation and a friendly vibe are just icing on the cake of this exceptional neighbourhood.

2. Centretown

Key features: Urban living, mix of housing, nightlife, great walkability

Average median price for single-family home: $777,279

Average rental cost of a 1-bedroom apartment: $2,000

Just south of the downtown core, Centretown is a diverse ‘hood with everything you’d expect from an urban centre. It features a variety of housing types, including beautifully restored pre-war homes, modern condos and low and high-rise apartments. There are lots of amenities (such as bars, nightclubs and restaurants) to be found along its two main commercial arteries, Bank and Elgin Streets. The neighbourhood houses the Canadian Museum of Nature and several small parks. Excellent transit links, bike infrastructure and proximity to the 417 make it easily accessible from anywhere in the city.

3. Alta Vista

Key features: Family friendly, active community association, good schools and green space

Average median price for single-family home: $750,000

Average rental cost of a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,877

Just minutes from downtown, Alta Vista is one of the best neighbourhoods in Ottawa for families thanks to its large yards, plentiful greenspace and strong community spirit. It also gets top points for its public transportation access and its proximity to hospitals and schools. Alta Vista Park, a favourite, is dog friendly and features sports fields, a wading pool, a modern playground and more.The neighbourhood also possesses multiple shopping plazas within quick driving distance, as well as some restaurants. The Alta Vista Community Association is active and plans numerous events throughout the year.

4. Hintonburg

Key features: Strong sense of community, artsy, great amenities like restaurants and galleries

Average median price for single-family home: $900,000

Average rental cost of a 1-bedroom apartment: $2,000

One of the city’s hippest neighbourhoods, Hintonburg is located in Ottawa’s west end and is a nexus for food, fashion and the arts (including Ottawa’s acclaimed Great Canadian Theatre Company). The main commercial strip along Wellington Street West features trendy cafes, independent shops, art galleries and some of the city’s hottest restaurants. The community is known for its friendly, welcoming ambiance, and the Hintonburg Community Association even hosts an annual ArtsPark event. The area offers a mix of housing, from charming older homes to modern infills, and is popular with young professionals, artists and families.

5. Westboro

Key features: Historic, mature neighbourhood, riverside location, lively main street packed with restaurants and shops

Average median price for single-family home: $1,1 million

Average rental cost of a 1-bedroom apartment: $2,085

This historic and charming area dates back to the 19th century and is prized for its riverside location, lively main street and mix of old and new homes. Lovely, mature lots, a reputation as a safe district and highly ranked schools all contribute to Westboro’s allure. Ideal for park lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, its riverside location means residents have easy access to the Ottawa River’s multi-use paths and Westboro Beach.Those who prefer to exercise their wallet will appreciate the multitude of shops that line the area’s main street, Richmond Road. Its rare combination of urban assets and natural beauty make Westboro one of the best neighbourhoods in Ottawa.

6. Orléans

Key features: Strong Francophone culture, wealth of green space and recreational centres, lots of amenities

Average median price for single-family home: $700,000

Average rental cost of a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,600

Orléans is known for its strong French influence, family-friendly vibe and scenic trails along the Ottawa River. On the outskirts of the city’s east end along the Ottawa River, the neighbourhood offers excellent schools (in both English and French), as well as a wealth of restaurants, shopping (in the form of big box stores and local establishments) and recreational facilities. Those with active kids will appreciate the abundance of parks like Petrie Island Beach, Millenium Park and dog-friendly Apollo Crater Park. Public transportation is made easy with numerous OC Transpo bus lines and the city is working on extending the O-Train.

7. Rockcliffe Park

Key features: Prestigious, some of the city’s costliest real estate, home to Canada’s powerful and political elites, upscale amenities

Average median price for single-family home: $2 million

Average rental cost of a 1-bedroom apartment: Not available (rentals are almost non-existent in this upscale community)

If price is no object and expansive estates, tree-lined boulevards and sharing a postal code with Ottawa’s elite are among your must-haves when house hunting, then this exclusive (and very expensive) neighbourhood is just the ticket. One of the most attractive features of the area is the tranquil, park-like atmosphere that feels worlds away from the bustle of downtown though it’s not far from the city’s core. Peaceful parkland, Rockcliffe Park has mature trees, walking trails and the picturesque Rockcliffe Pavilion overlooking the Ottawa River. Ottawa River Pathway, which runs through Rockcliffe Park, is a popular public trail for walking, cycling and gorgeous river views.

8. Sandy Hill

Key features: Large student population, close to University of Ottawa, walkable to downtown and major attractions

Average median price for single-family home: $900,000

Average rental cost of a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,700

The student-heavy populace (thanks to its proximity to the University of Ottawa) of Sandy Hill may not be for everyone, but the historic neighbourhood is popular with young professionals who appreciate nightlife, local coffee roasters, vintage shops and a plethora of restaurants that fit all budgets. Parliament Hill, the ByWard and downtown are also within walking distance. Despite its youthful energy, Sandy Hill boasts a strong economic and social mix, including middle-class and affluent families, especially near the embassies along the Rideau River. Verdant Strathcona Park, set along the Rideau River, is a local gem with play structures, bike paths and BBQ areas.

9.Barrhaven

Key features: Family friendly suburb, diverse housing, state-of-the-art recreation centre

Average median price for single-family home: $700,000

Average rental cost of a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,800

Southwest of the downtown core, this fast-growing, affordable suburban area has a variety of housing, from townhomes to large single-family houses. One of the best neighborhoods in Ottawa for families, it’s known for its excellent schools and abundance of parks and recreational facilities. Residents enjoy easy access to shopping centers, restaurants and the Minto Recreation Centre, which offers NHL-sized rinks, a six-lane 25-metre lap pool and a gymnasium.

10. Kanata

Key features: High-tech hub, excellent schools, abundant parks and recreation

Average median price for single-family home: $750,000

Average rental cost of a 1-bedroom apartment: $2,600

In 2001, Kanata (along with several other cities and townships) was amalgamated into a new, larger City of Ottawa. Considered Ottawa’s high-tech capital, the neighbourhood is home to the Kanata North Business Park, the country’s largest technology park, making it especially appealing for professionals and young families seeking both career opportunities and a suburban lifestyle. It includes top rated schools and is packed with parks, trails and green spaces, such as the South March Highlands Conservation Forest for hiking and mountain biking, and Walter Baker Park for sports, splash pads and community events.

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

Wayne and Kathy Paquette thought they’d found the perfect retirement plan: a sleek floating home on the water, no property tax, no snow to shovel, and a fraction of the cost of a traditional house. They paid $265,000 to a man named Joe Nemins from a company called Live on The Bay.

No home was ever delivered.

“I thought, ‘Wow, I can actually retire,’” Wayne said. “We were excited. It all sounded so good.”

Their floating home was supposed to be finished last May, but they say there were delays and it was never completed. Now, the Paquettes have lost their life savings.

“We have been taken advantage of,” said Kathy. “And we have lost our life savings.”

They’re not alone. At least three customers allege they were duped by the same company.

Ronda Kemp, who moved from Alberta to Midland, Ontario, to be closer to family, handed over $165,000. “I would like my money back, but I don’t think that’s going to happen,” she told CTV News “I worked all my life… now I have nothing to show for it.”

Jim Lewis, another buyer, paid $350,000 for a two-story floating house that was due to be delivered in July 2024. Lewis is frustrated as it appears the builder just abandoned the project. "We are now left to our own devices," he said to CTV, to sort out a floating home that was never completed.

Why this matters for first-time homebuyers

What happened to these buyers is more than a sad story — it’s a warning.

Canada’s housing market has pushed many first-time buyers to the brink. With soaring prices and interest rates, even entry-level homes are increasingly out of reach. According to the Canadian Real Estate Association, the average home price in Canada in early 2025 hovers near $700,000. In cities like Toronto and Vancouver, it’s closer to $1 million.

For younger buyers, the dream of homeownership is slipping further away. So they look for alternatives: Fixer-uppers, tiny homes, off-grid properties, and floating homes.

But desperation makes you vulnerable. And that’s the trap.

The promise of something affordable can be used against you. That’s why it’s critical to protect yourself — not just from scams, but from risky mortgages that leave you house-poor or overleveraged.

How to avoid getting burned: Tips for a smart, affordable mortgage

Get pre-approved and understand your budget

Before shopping for any home, talk to a mortgage advisor or bank about what you can realistically afford — and ask for multiple scenarios (fixed vs. variable, rate hikes, job loss). Don’t just go by what you can borrow. Know what you can safely afford.

Compare mortgage types

Fixed-rate mortgages offer stability, but variable-rate options may start lower. Make sure you know how your payments could change if rates increase — because they might.

Avoid private or unregulated lenders unless absolutely necessary

If a deal seems too easy or fast, ask why. Stick with lenders governed by federal or provincial rules, which offer consumer protections.

Build in a buffer

Don’t max out your budget. Leave room for rising interest rates, maintenance, or unexpected job changes. The rule of thumb: Housing costs should stay under 30% to 35% of your gross income.

Watch out for red flags

Unclear contracts, pushy sellers, or “can’t-miss” investment pitches are signs to walk away. Do your research. Ask for references. Consult a real estate lawyer before signing anything non-traditional.

Consider co-buying or shared ownership

If you can’t buy solo, co-ownership agreements with trusted friends or family are becoming more common — just make sure the legal agreements are solid.

Are alternative housing options the future?

Canadians across the country are struggling with affordable housing and as a result alternative housing options are on the rise. This makes alternatives, such as the floating homes appealing. With a floating home you own the structure and can choose to keep it in the water and pay moorage fees — similar to condo fees — or use a tugboat or similar vessel to move it to another water-based location.

Floating homes gained popularity in expensive cities, such as Vancouver and Toronto, as it was a way to stay close to big-city amenities without assuming a $1 million mortgage.

But floating homes are not the most popular alternative housing option. By far the most accessible option is a tiny home. The Ontario government defines a “tiny home” as being a standalone, self-contained structure that includes a living/dining area, bathroom, sleeping area and kitchen. Tiny homes are cheaper to build and maintain than a regular house. Depending on zoning laws in your city or district, you can add a tiny home to your property or look for tiny home zoning in your city’s master building plan.

Another option are modular homes. These homes are built using prefabricated pieces. They’re made offsite and then delivered to a property and assembled onsite. Like a regular house, these are stand-alone homes that offer all the regular modern conveniances, such as electrical and plumbing. The biggest difference is that a modular home is faster to erect than a stick-framed house — reducing the amount of time it takes between purchase and moving into your brand new home.

Next steps for the Ontario floating home buyers

When CTV News reached out to Joe Nemins, he explained in a phone interview that he had completed his part of the work and pointed the finger at the three customers for the delays. According to him, the customers changed their plans mid-construction, causing setbacks.

The cases are now part of an ongoing investigation involving lawyers and police.

Bottom line

The Paquettes’ story is heartbreaking, but it’s also a wake-up call. In this market, being hopeful isn’t enough. You need to be informed, protected, and ready to walk away from anything that seems too good to be true — even if it floats.

Sources

1. CTV News: Customers who bought ‘dream’ floating home say it’s become a nightmare (Jan 21, 2025)

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.