Royal ups rates a quarter point
Hikes a sign era of historically low rates ending
Homebuyers feeling pressured to enter market sooner
Mortgage decisions should be considered within the context of a financial plan
Most economists laud the more rigorous requirements for borrowers, but insist the market is far from bubble territory
Cash back can be used to help offset prepayment charges
Little evidence that a housing bubble has formed in Canada
New measures will help borrowers prepare for higher interest rates
Stiffer criteria aimed at strengthening housing financing market
Flaherty worried Canadians may be taking on too much debt