Price declines were mainly an Ontario phenomenon, but home prices were softening in the Fraser Valley, Winnipeg and Halifax
Average home price was up 3% year over year
Region saw 1,345 homes changed hands in December, with average price of $1,168,700
The finance minister approved the transaction, with conditions
Early estimates also suggest retail sales increased 0.8% in October
Seniors living longer may reduce the need for downsizing
The national average home price rose 1.8% year-over-year to $656,625
9.9% year-over-year increase is sixth consecutive monthly record high
Still, the average home price rose 3.5% year over year
Real estate industry is likely breathing a sigh of relief that Canada's banking regulator may not move ahead with lending tightening