<human>:  How is the Canadian housing market doing right now?
<bot>: The Canadian housing market is continuing to boom despite the COVID-19 pandemic. Prices have increased by an average of 8%, according to the Canadian Real Estate Association, with sales activity remaining well above year-ago levels. Despite rising prices, the market remains relatively tight with inventory levels remaining low. Demand for homes is still strong, with first-time home-buyers and move-up buyers driving the market forward.