Here's an interesting article regarding everyones favorite industry topic "commission" based on the recent NAR settlement.  The comment claiming that Buyer agency is free is inaccruate - even though the the commission is paid by the seller, the buyer is paying for it in the purchase price.  This typically helps with buyer financing & is my understanding why it's been done this way for years.  Otherwise, especially 1st time buyer's (typically with limited funds) will have to pay the buyer's agent on top of other closing costs.  

The NAR settlement and its far-reaching implications: What does it mean for the Canadian industry? by Natalka Falcomer in REM March 25, 2024.

https://realestatemagazine.ca/the-nar-settlement-and-its-far-reaching-implications-what-does-it-mean-for-the-canadian-industry/

With affordability becoming an issue nearly everywhere over the last few years, parents are assisting their children get a foot in the door for their housing needs.  Here's a couple interesting articles addressing some of the factors:

The Bank of Mom & Dad: Susan Doran in REM March 26, 2024

https://realestatemagazine.ca/the-bank-of-mom-and-dad-taking-extremes-to-secure-childrens-homeownership-dreams-in-steep-markets/

Young Canadian Homebuyers embrace trade-offs for early ownership: REM Editorial Team March 25, 2024

https://realestatemagazine.ca/young-canadian-homebuyers-embrace-trade-offs-for-early-ownership-houseful/