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House prices in Canada remained high after the global recession in 2009 and early 2010 and acted as a driving force for the rest of the economy. An annual rise of 8.6% from 2009–2010 has led to suggestions of a bubble in the market. As in most industrialised countries, the real-estate market is organised. The largest companies include the likes of McDonald Realty Group and Sutton Group (West Coast Realty), and more significantly numerous franchises bearing the Royal LePage and Re/max brand names. Most companies and franchises operate locally or regionally as opposed to nationally. The Canadian real-estate agent profession is regulated. In order to become a licensed real-estate agent in Canada one must successfully complete a course of study as required by the Real Estate Act of the relevant province or territory. Half of the capital gains are liable to tax and rental income tax is 25% for foreigners and 15–29% (progressively) for Canadians. There are virtually no restrictions on foreigners buying property in Canada.