Author: Zoe Mitchell
The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) MLI Select Program is a transformative initiative that has significantly altered financing for multi-unit residential properties in Ontario, as well as across Canada. Created to encourage affordable, accessible, and energy‐efficient housing, the program provides investors and developers with enhanced loan terms that include high loan-to-value (LTV) ratios, extended amortization periods, and reduced mortgage insurance premiums. For Ontario real estate investors, whether entering the rental market or expanding an existing portfolio, the program offers an unprecedented opportunity to optimize cash flow and reduce upfront capital requirements, according to Paul D’Abruzzo, a real estate coach…
In Canada, there is no legal cap on how many properties an individual can own. Although there are some misconceptions that government regulations may limit property holdings, Canadian law permits the purchase of multiple properties, whether they are primary residences, second homes, or investment properties, other than, in some cases, regulatory restrictions for non-residents. However, there are practical limitations, which come from financing requirements and tax obligations. Financing and Lending Considerations While you can legally own as many properties as you wish, obtaining the necessary financing is often the biggest hurdle. Lenders assess your financial profile—including income, credit score, and…
An upcoming industry webinar, hosted by Olympia Trust Company on March 25, 2025, will explore innovative approaches to financing real estate ventures by leveraging the tax-advantaged benefits of Canadian registered accounts, including RSPs and TFSAs. Expert Perspectives on a Shifting Financial Landscape The session will feature a panel of seasoned professionals with extensive expertise in capital markets, securities issuance, and regulatory frameworks. The discussions will cover the interplay between financial regulations, such as those under the Income Tax Act, and the innovative use of registered accounts to facilitate alternative financing solutions. Attendees can expect a detailed analytical perspective that explains…
The British Columbia Construction Association (BCCA) has taken a step to help industry professionals manage economic challenges by recently releasing its new “Checklist for Navigating Tariff Uncertainty.” This high-level guide provides trade and general contractors with a practical framework to assess risk, address contract provisions, and take informed action amid evolving tariff policies. The BCCA notes that tariff uncertainty has an impact on the construction industry. The BCCA’s checklist is designed to equip contractors with strategies to navigate these challenges. It emphasizes that successful management of tariff issues requires proactive communication and a thorough understanding of contractual obligations. A primary…
The Calgary housing market, while still demonstrating strength, is showing clear indicators of a shift from the rapid growth experienced in recent years to a more balanced state. This transition is marked by increased construction activity, rising inventory, and a divergence in performance compared to other major Alberta markets like Edmonton. One of the primary drivers of this shift is the increase in housing supply. Reports from late 2024 and early 2025 consistently highlight a surge in new listings, particularly in the condo segment. A November report by Edge Realty Analytics noted a strong flow of new listings, rising 22%…
Investing in snowfront properties in Canadian winter destinations offers an enticing blend of lifestyle benefits and strong investment potential. These properties are not only gateways to world-class winter sports and scenic mountain landscapes but also represent a unique asset class that demands careful consideration. When considering such a purchase, buyers must weigh location-specific factors, market dynamics, regulatory restrictions, property features, and long-term financial implications. Location and Destinations Canada’s mountainous regions have long been a magnet for winter sports enthusiasts and investors alike. Renowned areas such as Whistler, Canmore, Mont Tremblant, and others each have a distinctive character but offer unparalleled…
In January 2025 compared to December 2024, overall sales declined while new listings, inventory levels, average days on the market, and benchmark prices all increased modestly. Detached homes and row houses experienced minimal changes in pricing and days on the market, whereas semi-detached and apartment-style units showed greater variability in listing numbers and price adjustments. 2024 Year-End Overview According to the RealtorsⓇ Association of Hamilton Burlington, at the close of 2024, the Hamilton Burlington real estate market reported a 1.3% increase over the previous year, but it remained 26% below long-term trends. New listings for the year showed a 19.1%…
On February 10, 2025, Kitchener City Council took another step toward addressing renovictions, a practice in which tenants are displaced under the guise of property renovations. At the meeting, the Council directed staff to prepare an in‐depth report on a proposed renoviction bylaw. This report is slated for further discussion at the June 2 Planning and Strategic Initiatives committee meeting, a follow‐up to a decision made in June 2024 when the Council approved the Rental Replacement Bylaw and mandated that staff examine similar measures across Ontario. Ontario Municipality Trends If implemented, Kitchener will join a growing trend amongst Ontario municipalities…
Harbourwalk at Lakeview Village presents a measured approach to modern waterfront development in Mississauga. Developed by Tridel and brought to life through the designs of Architects-Alliance and II BY IV DESIGN, this project introduces two condominium towers with distinctive stepped setbacks and a smooth integration with communal spaces. As the inaugural release within the Lakeview Village, Harbourwalk will be an anchor for a transformative, mixed-use community along 177 acres of premier waterfront land in Mississauga. Mississauga: A Growing Market for Living and Investment Mississauga enjoys an attractive market due to its blend of strategic location, robust infrastructure, and ongoing urban…
The Oakville-Milton market appears to be potentially in transition. While January 2025 saw fewer sales and a significant build-up in inventory, the 2024 fourth-quarter performance showed robust activity. Residential Market Q4 2024 Trends In the fourth quarter of 2024, residential activity experienced strong growth compared to the same period in 2023. Sales A total of 1,563 residential units were sold during Q4 2024, representing a 31.5% increase. Separating the data by housing type reveals that single detached homes increased by 29%, townhouse and row units by 31.8%, and apartment units by an impressive 40.9%. On an annual basis, total residential…
