Author: Zoe Mitchell

Many Canadians are interested in diversifying their portfolios with U.S. real estate. Whether it’s a vacation rental property on the sunny beaches of Florida or a furnished executive rental in busy New York, the U.S. offers a diverse range of investment opportunities.  However, diving into cross-border real estate comes with its unique set of challenges and considerations. Understanding these can make the difference between a successful investment and a costly mistake. Why U.S. Real Estate Is Appealing for Canadians U.S. real estate offers several advantages to Canadian investors, including a diverse range of property types, potentially higher returns, and a…

New Hamilton Vacant Unit Tax: Mandatory Occupancy Declarations to Be Submitted Starting January 2025 The City of Hamilton will roll out a Vacant Unit Tax (VUT) starting in 2025. This tax, modelled after similar programs in cities like Vancouver, Toronto, and Ottawa, aims to discourage property owners from keeping residential units unoccupied for extended periods. The tax is part of a broader initiative to make more housing available and support the city’s housing programs. What the Vacant Unit Tax Means for Property Owners Under the new policy, all residential property owners in Hamilton must submit an annual mandatory occupancy declaration,…