HOMES Magazine – June 14, 2025 by Media Classified

stacked urban and

THE CLAIRE | 3 BED TERRACE SUITE THE BLOCK ON CLAIR, GUELPH

THE KENNEDY | KITCHEN

HOME DESIGN | MARIAM ABOUTAAM

An award-winning interior designer, Mariam Aboutaam is Director, Sales and Marketing, Interior Design at Kylemore, Markham, Ont., a builder known for master-planned communities and luxury homes. kylemoreliving.com.

PERSONAL FINANCE | JESSE ABRAMS

Jesse Abrams is Co-Founder at Homewise, a mortgage advisory and brokerage firm based in Toronto. thinkhomewise.com

TRREB REPORT | ELECHIA BARRY-SPROULE

Elechia Barry-Sproule is President of the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB) and Broker/Owner of Red Apple Real Estate Inc. She is committed to mentoring and supporting real estate professionals across the industry. trreb.ca.

HOME REALTY | DEBBIE COSIC

Debbie Cosic is CEO and founder of In2ition Realty. She has overseen the sale of more than $15 billion worth of real estate. With Debbie at its helm, In2ition has become one of the fastest-growing and most innovative new home and condo sales companies. in2ition.ca

REAL ESTATE PRO | BARBARA LAWLOR

Barbara Lawlor is CEO of Baker Real Estate Inc. A member of the Baker team since 1993, she oversees the marketing and sales of new home and condominium developments in the GTA, Vancouver, Calgary and Montreal, and internationally in Shanghai. baker-re.com

STAT CHAT | BEN MYERS

Ben Myers is the President of Bullpen Consulting, a boutique residential real estate advisory firm specializing in condominium and rental apartment market studies, forecasts and valuations for developers, lenders and land owners. Contact him at bullpenconsulting.ca and @benmyers29 on Twitter.

BILD REPORT | DAVE WILKES

Dave Wilkes is president and CEO of the Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD), the voice of the home building, land development and professional renovation industry in the GTA. For the latest industry news and new home data, follow BILD on Twitter at @bildgta or visit bildgta.ca

SENIOR VICE-PRESIDENT, SALES, NEXTHOME

Hope McLarnon 416.708.7987 hope.mclarnon@nexthome.ca

DIRECTOR OF SALES, ONTARIO, NEXTHOME Natalie Chin 416.881.4288 natalie.chin@nexthome.ca

SENIOR MEDIA CONSULTANTS Amanda Bell 416.830.2911 amanda.bell@nexthome.ca

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Amanda Pereira

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF – GREATER TORONTO AREA Wayne Karl wayne.karl@nexthome.ca

CONTRIBUTORS

Mariam Aboutaam, Jesse Abrams, Elechia Barry-Sproule, Mike Collins-Williams, Debbie Cosic, Barbara Lawlor, Linda Mazur, Ben Myers, Jayson Schwarz, Dave Wilkess

EXECUTIVE MEDIA CONSULTANTS

Jacky Hill, Michael Rosset

VICE-PRESIDENT, MARKETING – GTA Leanne Speers

MANAGER CUSTOMER SALES/SERVICE

Marilyn Watling

SALES & MARKETING CO-ORDINATOR

Gary Chilvers

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Josh Rosset

DISTRIBUTION distributionteam@nexthome.ca

ACCOUNTING INQUIRIES accountingteam@nexthome.ca

DIRECTOR OF PRINT MEDIA

Lauren Reid–Sachs

VICE-PRESIDENT, PRODUCTION – GTA

Lisa Kelly

PRODUCTION MANAGER – GTA Yvonne Poon

GRAPHIC DESIGNER & PRE-PRESS COORDINATOR Hannah Yarkony

Published by nexthome.ca

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THE WHO’S WHO OF EXCELLENCE

WAYNE KARL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF HOMES Magazine

EMAIL: wayne.karl@nexthome.ca

TWITTER: @WayneKarl

Our Stat Chat column from Ben Myers on page 12 of this issue touches on the important topic of media coverage of the homebuilding industry.

Myers, president of boutique real estate advisory firm Bullpen Consulting, explains that, coverage used to be factual, balanced and even relatively dry. “Fast forward to 2025, and we’re awash in a sea of tweets, TikToks, blogs, subreddits and forums, all offering wildly divergent takes on where this market is headed.”

If you’re active on any of those or other social media platforms – for entertainment, hobbies, favourite sports or what have you – you likely know of what he speaks. Everybody is an expert. Just ask them.

Myers summarizes perfectly that “while access to a wider range of perspectives isn’t inherently bad, it comes with a major downside: It’s harder than ever to know who to trust.”

Another of our valued columnists, Lianne McOuat, vice-president of strategy at McOuat Partnership, recently wrote about the evolving media landscape, and how print media – even in this digital age – remains an important source of information.

“This is a crowded marketplace, and the competition for your attention has never been greater,” she wrote in her piece that can now be found on nexthome.ca. “In today’s diverse media landscape, a social media post may connect with you on multiple levels, but a print ad has a stronger impact. A study in Neuropsychology Review looked at the effects of different media formats on memory retention, and it found that tangible formats lead to stronger long-term retention than digital ones. The study proved that when readers engage in a tactile way with printed material, the engagement that takes place is deeper, which leads to improved recall and understanding of the content.”

These two contributors are among the who’s who of industry experts – actual experts – whose insights we present here in Homes, our sister publications Condo Life and Active Life, and on nexthome.ca.

When it comes to preparing to buy a new home, research is everything Staying on top of financial and economic news, visiting builder websites, touring prospective neighbourhoods and housing developments, building your team (realtor, lender, lawyer) and, yes, reading the news and analysis in publications such as Homes. Everything you can do to make a fully informed decision.

The GTA is blessed with excellent new home developers, builders, marketers, sellers and other contributors. When you’re ready to take advantage of the emerging homebuying opportunities, you’ll be dealing with some of the very best.

In short, the who’s who of excellence.

2025 BILD AWARDS CELEBRATE HOMEBUILDING EXCELLENCE IN GTA

The Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD) recently recognized excellence in the design, construction, marketing and sales of new homes in the GTA at its 2025 BILD Awards Gala.

BILD presented 50 awards in the categories of architecture, design, marketing, people and sales, and in the prestigious project and builder categories. A group of 51 expert judges from across North America determined the winners from over 700 submitted entries.

“The BILD Awards is one of the largest and most prestigious awards programs of its kind in North America,” says Dave Wilkes, BILD president and CEO. “This year’s winners truly exemplify outstanding innovation and showcase the excellence of the building industry in the Greater Toronto Area.”

Howard Sokolowski, Founder and CEO of Metropia, received BILD’s Lifetime Achievement Award. It is the highest honour BILD can present to a member, recognizing those who have dedicated a lifetime to the association and the industry and demonstrated significant leadership and commitment to the greater good. Sokolowski has been at the forefront of Canada’s development industry for more than 30 years. One of the most trusted and influential industry leaders, he is renowned for building iconic communities that residents are proud to call home.

The Daniels Corporation was named Home Builder of the Year, Mid/ Highrise, while Great Gulf received the title of Home Builder of the Year, Lowrise. The Home Builder of the Year categories recognize builders who set the standard for the rest of the industry through their professionalism and dedication to excellence. A key component of the judging process is a customer satisfaction survey, which ensures that the end user’s experience is factored into the award criteria.

The winners of the top project and builder categories include:

• Green Builder of the Year, Lowrise –Great Gulf

• Green Builder of the Year, Mid/ Highrise – Tridel

• Angelo DelZotto Fearless Innovator Award – Assembly Corp.

• lgnat Kaneff Inspiration Award – Sam Condo, Weston Flooring Ltd.

• Riley Brethour Leadership Award –Adrian Rocca, Fitzrovia

• Stephen Dupuis CSR Award –Fitzrovia

• Best Overall Marketing Campaign – Equiton Developments – MAXIUM at 875 The Queensway – The Community, kg&a, Qoo Studio Inc., Patton Design Studio

• Best Advertising Campaign, Paid Media – Fitzrovia –Sloane by Fitzrovia – PUREBLINK, Qoo Studio Inc.

• Best Midrise Building Design –Equiton Developments – MAXIUM at 875 The Queensway – Patton Design Studio

• Best Highrise Building Design –Devron Developments – 101 Spadina – Gladstone Media, II BY IV DESIGN, RDS

• Best Community, Built – Fitzrovia – Elm-Ledbury – PUREBLINK, Qoo Studio Inc.

• Best Purpose-Built Rental – The Rose Corporation – The Bakerfield II – RAW Design, BGO

• Project of the Year, Lowrise – Arista Homes and Great Gulf – OAKPOINTE in Upper Joshua Creek – 1063 Guidelines, Hunt Design Associates, Qoo Studio Inc.

• Project of the Year, Mid/Highrise – North Drive Investments – One Roxborough West

• Best New Community, Planned/ Under Development – ARGO Development Corporation –Caledon Station – GSAI (Glen Schnarr & Associates Inc.)

In addition, Brixen Developments’ Exhale Residences, designed by Architecture Unfolded received the People’s Choice Award, which is voted by the public.

For a full list of BILD Awards winners, visit bildawards.com.

BUILDER PROFILE

Mattamy Homes: Building for how people truly live since 1978

There’s a lot to consider when buying a new home. Where and what will you get the best value? What layout and features do you want most? And, perhaps most importantly, which builder has the experience you can trust? From its start in Burlington, Ont. to the more than 135,000 homes the company has now built across Canada and the U.S., Mattamy Homes has grown to be North America’s largest privately-owned homebuilder.

HOMEBUYING

Inventory homes and incentives present opportunity for homebuyers to act now

Everything from move-in ready homes to upgrades and incentives, homebuilders are pulling out all the stops to entice buyers this spring. Here are several opportunities for you to consider.

HOUSING POLICY

Ontario takes major steps to getting homes and infrastructure built faster

The Ontario government has introduced the Protect Ontario by Building Faster and Smarter Act, 2025 to help speed up the construction of new homes and infrastructure, including by streamlining development processes and reducing costs in close partnership with municipalities. .

Visit nexthome.ca

HOMEBUILDING

Brightstone – building brighter futures across the GTA

With a focus on infill neighbourhoods, Brightstone offers classic designs with have larger windows, open-concept floorplans, and smart technology designed right into the home. Indeed, Brightstone has five inspiring new communities coming soon in the GTA..

HOMEBUYING INCENTIVES

Time to explore spring homebuying deals

Spring is usually busy season in real estate, and while this may seem a little atypical due to uncertainty and concern due to tariffs and other issues, that doesn’t mean a lack of homebuying opportunities.

The model home hours:

The Bridges Estates, Tillsonburg’s New Premier Community, set in The Bridges Golf Course where every detached home either backs onto a ravine lot, treed lot, or backs directly onto the golf course.

Phase 1 is now open for viewing and includes a limited selection of 10 Executive Townhomes.

Tuesday – Thursday 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Saturday & Sunday 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Contact Sue or Paul 519-842-4251

Sue@tdinewhomes.ca | Paul@tdinewhomes.ca

NAVIGATING MEDIA HYPE AND FINDING

YOUR OWN PATH IN THE HOUSING MARKET

If you’ve been paying attention to the Toronto housing market over the past two decades, you’ve probably noticed a shift – not just in prices or construction activity – but in how the market is portrayed in the media.

Once upon a time, your real estate insight came from established outlets such as The Globe and Mail, the Toronto Star, and Financial Post. Reporting was factual, balanced, and – dare I say – relatively dry. Fast forward to 2025, and we’re awash in a sea of tweets, TikToks, blogs, subreddits and forums, all offering wildly divergent takes on where this market is headed.

And while access to a wider range of perspectives isn’t inherently bad, it comes with a major downside: It’s harder than ever to know who to trust. It’s no longer just real estate economists and senior analysts being quoted – today’s media landscape features a revolving cast of anonymous Twitter accounts, overzealous mortgage brokers and real estate agents who spend more time cultivating personal brands than closing deals.

This is especially important for you – the new-home buyer. Because you’re the one with skin in the game. You’re the one looking to make a decision that could affect your finances for the next five, 10, 20 years. And if you spend too much time

consuming the daily media swings – “Bubble!,” “Crash!,” “Rebound!” –you’ll paralyze yourself. I’ve seen it happen too many times.

The number of people who’ve been “waiting for the crash” since 2012 is astounding. Some of them still are despite current market conditions. They’ve missed a decade of appreciation, countless equity gains and the chance to build wealth simply because they were paying attention to the wrong headlines. Timing the market sounds great in theory, but in practice, it’s nearly impossible. The better approach is time in the market.

That doesn’t mean you should buy anything at any price. Absolutely not. You should look closely at your personal financial situation. Do you have a stable income? Are you planning to live in the unit for five or more years? Do you have a buffer in case of job loss or rate hikes? If so, then it might make sense to buy – even in a “down” market. If you’re banking on short-term appreciation or stretching to your absolute financial limit, maybe now isn’t the time. But that decision should be about you, not the media narrative of the moment.

There are developers right now modelling projects that do work – at lower margins, with different unit mixes, in less headline-grabbing parts of the GTA. Some are watching the current media noise carefully, waiting for the right moment to re-enter the pre-construction market. But even they know that moment will only become apparent in hindsight.

So where does this leave you? Frankly, I’d suggest you stop trying to

“read the tea leaves” altogether. Stop putting your trust in PhD realtors or clickbait headlines. Instead, focus on the fundamentals: Interest rates, local supply and demand, your own budget and your long-term goals.

And when you do seek out information, be choosy. Find experts with skin in the game. Listen to people who’ve been in the industry through multiple cycles. Read sources that prioritize data over drama. The good news? More in-depth content is out there – it just might be behind a paywall, on a podcast, or not served to you by the algorithm. I’ll throw in a shameless plug for the Toronto Under Construction podcast.

The bottom line: In a world where the loudest voices often get the most attention, remember that headlines don’t pay your mortgage – you do. Be careful who you listen to. The market will always go up and down.

Make a decision based on your life – not the latest story in your feed.

BEN MYERS

STORY

THE BLOCK ON CLAIR

There’s a saying in real estate: Timing is everything. And right now, timing is on your side. The market is shifting. Rates are dropping. And Reid’s Heritage Homes is changing the game with a groundbreaking new initiative – the RHH BUILD Program, in partnership with RBC.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, looking to upsize or considering a smart investment, this is your moment. Welcome to The Block on Clair in Guelph: A dynamic community

designed for modern living, built with legacy craftsmanship and supported by innovative, buyer-friendly financing.

INTRODUCING THE BUILD PROGRAM: A SMART PATH TO HOMEOWNERSHIP

The BUILD Program (Buy with confidence. Understand the process. Invest in your future. Learn about opportunities. Your Dream is our mission, welcome home) is more than just a catchy acronym. It’s a strategic

collaboration between Reid’s Heritage Homes and RBC, designed to make homeownership simpler, smarter and more accessible – especially for firsttime buyers.

Through BUILD, buyers gain:

• Personalized affordability assessments

• Exclusive mortgage incentives such as 36-month rate caps, firm appraisals and extended amortizations

• Access to a dedicated RBC advisor to guide you from pre-approval to move-in

• Peace of mind through capped closing costs, flexible deposits and even cash-back offers

It’s about eliminating guesswork and building confidence – step by step. Whether you’re unsure how much you can afford or feel overwhelmed by the process, BUILD provides clarity, direction and support.

And for a limited time, Reid’s Heritage Homes is offering extra perks for BUILD participants, including:

• Buy with five-per-cent total deposit

• Free assignment to family members

• $5,000 IKEA gift card with your new home

• Priority access to move-in ready homes

It’s never been easier to get started.

DISCOVER THE BLOCK ON CLAIR

Guelph is one of Ontario’s fastestgrowing, most livable cities – and The Block on Clair is its newest urban gem. This master-planned community blends urban stacked townhomes and rear lane garage towns in a vibrant, walkable neighbourhood surrounded by greenspace, shopping, schools and top-tier amenities.

Inside each home, you’ll find open-concept layouts, timeless highquality finishes, smart and functional floorplans for easy low-maintenance living.

With VIP pricing starting from the $560,000s and occupancy set for 2027, buyers have both value and time on their side. It’s the perfect blend of affordability, comfort and long-term investment potential.

WHY BUY NOW?

The market has shifted in favour of buyers – and those paying attention are already making their move. Here’s why:

• Interest rates are easing, and lenders are offering longer amortizations for first-time buyers.

• Reid’s Heritage Homes is offering generous incentives and inventory pricing to attract early buyers.

• Prices are stable, but demand is poised to rise again as confidence returns to the economy.

And thanks to the BUILD Program, buyers now have direct access to tools that demystify the financial side of the journey. You’ll work with RBC to match your personal goals with tailored solutions and gain the support of a trusted advisor throughout the process.

No fine print. No pressure. Just personalized support to help you get home.

EXPLORE MORE. STRESS LESS.

At The Block on Clair, you’re not just buying a home. You’re joining a community where life is meant to be lived fully.

PARKS AND NATURE

Walk to Clair Park, Preservation Park or hop on the Orin Reid Trail system in the one-of-a-kind Reid’s Heritage Homes community – Westminster Woods. Hike, bike, golf or picnic just minutes from your door.

SHOPPING AND DINING

From local favorites such as Market Fresh and Rug & Weave to big-name retailers and restaurants, everything you need is close by, including everything you could need at your doorstep – restaurants, shops, pharmacies, movie theatres and much more.

EDUCATION AND OPPORTUNITY

Live minutes from the University of Guelph, Conestoga College and thriving job sectors such as agri-tech, manufacturing and IT.

CULTURE AND FUN

Catch live music at the Hillside Festival, sip a brew at Sleeman Brewery or explore downtown Guelph’s historic charm.

It’s city life without the stress – and nature without the commute.

BUILT WITH CARE BY REID’S HERITAGE HOMES

For more than 45 years, Reid’s Heritage Homes has built a reputation on integrity, quality and compassion. The company treats each buyer not as a customer, but as a future neighbour – and that commitment shows in every home it builds.

“We believe there’s much more to buying a home than handing over a set of keys. We don’t just build communities, we are one,” says the Reid’s team. “That’s why our customer experience begins long before movein day and continues long after.”

With the BUILD Program, that promise is taken even further. It’s not

just about home construction – it’s about connection, guidance and delivering peace of mind.

VISIT THE CAMBRIDGE DISCOVERY CENTRE

Want to see what’s possible? Visit the Cambridge Discovery Centre, located at Reid’s Heritage Homes’ head office at 700 Jamieson

Parkway, Unit 102, Cambridge, Ont., just three minutes from Hwy. 401 (Townline Road Exit).

Explore all active communities, view floorplans, tour model homes and learn more about the BUILD Program directly from the team. Whether you’re curious or committed, you’ll leave feeling confident and informed.

READY TO BUILD YOUR FUTURE?

Now is the time. With builder incentives, RBC-backed financing support and a truly livable, loveable community, The Block on Clair is your opportunity to step confidently into homeownership.

To book an appointment or speak with our sales agent, contact Katriina Stafford at kstafford@1111realty.ca or 416.278.0340.

For more information, visit reidsheritagehomes.com or theblockonclair.ca.

HOW TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF A MARKET WITH ADVICE | PERSONAL FINANCE

EXCESS INVENTORY

JESSE ABRAMS

If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines of the housing market, now may be your moment.

Right now across many parts of Canada, we’re seeing something that hasn’t been common over the past few years: More homes on the market and less competition among buyers. For home shoppers who are prepared, this creates a window

of opportunity that deserves a closer look.

At Homewise, we speak to buyers daily who are wondering if it’s the right time to act. While timing the market perfectly is impossible, market conditions like these can offer tangible advantages.

MORE CHOICE, LESS PRESSURE

When inventory is high and buyer demand is low, you gain something incredibly valuable: Time and choice. In recent years, buyers were often forced to make quick decisions on homes with multiple offers and aggressive bidding wars. Now, with more listings available and fewer buyers competing, you have the chance to explore neighbourhoods, compare options and negotiate from a stronger position.

ROOM TO NEGOTIATE

In a balanced or buyer-friendly market, sellers are typically more open to negotiation. That might mean a better price, more flexible closing dates or even repairs or upgrades included as part of the deal. For homes that have been sitting on the market for a few weeks, sellers may be especially motivated to make a deal. That’s a significant change from the frantic pace we’ve seen in past markets.

LESS COMPETITION, MORE VALUE

Bidding wars tend to drive up prices and cause emotional decisionmaking. With less buyer competition, many properties are now selling closer to their list price. That means more accurate home valuations and less risk of overpaying. If you’re a firsttime buyer or someone upgrading to a larger home, this can translate into real savings.

THE POWER OF PREPARATION

This type of market rewards buyers who are prepared. Getting a mortgage pre-approval gives you a clear sense of your budget and helps you act quickly when the right home comes along. It also shows sellers that you’re serious.

LOOKING BEYOND THE HEADLINES

Yes, there are still challenges in the market. Interest rates are higher than they were a couple of years ago, and inflation continues to affect affordability. But when inventory increases and demand cools, it shifts the power dynamic.

In simple terms, you’re not just buying a home – you’re buying at a moment where there’s more room to make a smart, well-timed decision. Working with an unbiased mortgage advisor like ours at Homewise is a good way to get an idea of affordability, options and determine if the timing is right for you.

FINAL THOUGHT

Every market cycle brings opportunity, and for those who are ready, this one might be it. Use the extra inventory and reduced competition to your advantage. Take your time, do your research and lean on experts who can help you navigate the process.

This could be the calm in the storm you’ve been waiting for.

Jesse Abrams is Co-Founder at Homewise, a mortgage advisory and brokerage firm. thinkhomewise.com

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THE LIBERAL HOUSING

PLAN , ONTARIO’S NEXT STEPS, AND WHAT IT REALLY TAKES TO REVIVE CANADA’S MARKET

DEBBIE COSIC

Canada’s housing market is in critical need of action. While the Liberal government’s housing platform acknowledges the urgency, developers and industry professionals are still facing immense challenges on the ground – particularly in the preconstruction space.

We’re seeing encouraging signs. Ontario’s Protecting Ontario by Building Faster and Smarter Act, 2025 includes the long-overdue standardization of development charges. This move could bring consistency to a cost structure that has made it nearly impossible to budget or plan effectively. Pair this with Ontario’s 2025 budget, which earmarks millions for modular housing and billions for housingenabling infrastructure, and we start to see some foundation for meaningful progress.

However, the gap between announcements and implementation remains wide. In pre-construction, timing is everything. Projects take years from planning to occupancy, and every delay, from zoning to servicing, adds cost and risk. Developers want to build, but high interest rates, fluctuating materials costs and policy uncertainty make launching new projects risky.

Meanwhile, the federal cap on international students is doing more harm than good. While wellintentioned, the ban cuts off a population that not only supports

the rental market but also drives long-term housing demand. Schools, builders and communities are feeling the impact. We need better regulation, not elimination. If we want a robust housing market, we can’t limit the very people who fuel it.

SO, WHAT WILL MOVE THE NEEDLE?

1. Faster approvals and more predictable planning timelines.

2. Access to better financing options for both builders and buyers.

3. Support for innovation, such as modular construction and adaptive reuse.

4. Reversal or rethinking of the student ban with more targeted oversight.

5. True collaboration between all levels of government and industry.

On the buyer side, we need lower interest rates, relief from the rigid mortgage stress test, longer amortization periods and smaller guaranteed deposits, especially for first-time and new Canadians trying to enter the market.

Pre-construction isn’t just about putting up buildings – it’s about

delivering homes for the next generation. Government can’t just set housing targets; it must create the environment for builders to deliver. That means cutting red tape, investing in infrastructure and aligning on real timelines – not election cycles. This market doesn’t need more headlines – it needs action, speed and stability. If governments truly want to build 3.9 million homes, they need to start by trusting and empowering the builders. We’re ready to go. Let’s create the conditions where we can move – not in five years, but now.

Because the longer we wait, the harder it will be to catch up.

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THERE’S A FIRST TIME FOR EVERYTHING

Buying your first home is one of the most special life steps you can take. With house and condominium prices the way they are today, however, it may seem impossible for first-time buyers to realize their dream of homeownership. And yet, first-time purchasers are showing up at sales offices after exploring, and taking advantage of, the many forms of government and private sector financial help available to them.

For example, with Canada’s recent federal election, first-time homebuyers are now exempt from paying GST on any home priced at less than $1 million. This represents a huge savings benefit. Then there are other government programs that can help eligible first-time buyers. Again, from the federal government, the Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP) allows Canadians to withdraw from your registered retirement savings plans (RRSPs) to buy or build a qualifying home for yourself or for a specified disabled person. Currently the HBP withdrawal limit is $60,000.

The Home Buyers’ Plan allows firsttime homebuyers to use a portion of the money they’ve contributed toward their RRSP for a down payment on a home – the withdrawn money will need to be paid back over 15 years into an RRSP account. In 2024, the withdrawal limit was increased to $60,000 per individual from $35,000. This means that, where both spouses have an RRSP, a couple can withdraw up to $120,000 with this plan. Recent

changes to the HBP also extend the amount of time first-time homebuyers must start repaying their RRSP from two, to five years, for those who make withdrawals between Jan. 1, 2022 and Dec. 31, 2025.

There is also the First Home Savings Account (FHSA), a registered savings plan in Canada that helps first-time homebuyers save for their first home purchase. It combines features of both a Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) and a Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP). Contributions are tax-deductible, and any investment returns are tax-free, provided the money is used towards the purchase of a qualifying first home.

The best thing to do is start with the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. (CMHC) booklet Homebuying Step by Step. This handy booklet begins well before any purchase, with deciding whether homeownership is right for you. It takes you all the way through maintaining your home and protecting your investment. Then consult CMHC’s Buying a Home for handy tools such as homebuying calculators and other buying guides.

When you shop for a new home or condominium suite, chat with the sales representatives about potential incentives that will make your choice more affordable. Trust me, builders and developers want to help you get into homeownership.

Think of other things as well. Can your family help with the down payment? And one strategy that many of us used in the past was sacrificing everything but the necessities to save. When shopping for a new home of any kind, I say use all the tools available to you to make the best decision for your needs and budget.

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BARBARA LAWLOR

The Winston by INSOHO

WELCOME TO THE BRIDGES ESTATES

A NEW PREMIER DEVELOPMENT BY TILLSONBURG DEVELOPMENTS

Looking for relaxed golf course living in a quaint little town, yet still with all the amenities you’ll ever need?

Welcome to The Bridges Estates in Tillsonburg, Ont. – a premier community of luxury detached and freehold townhomes nestled alongside The Bridges Golf Course –by Tillsonburg Developments Inc.

Offering a selection of 64 premier single-family detached homes in bungalow, bungalow-loft and twostorey models on a variety of lots sizes – plus a limited collection of 24 executive freehold townhomes – The Bridges Estates is your opportunity to own a beautiful new home built in timeless Craftsman style.

Indeed, Tillsonburg Developments’ design team is ready to work with you to help you achieve your goal of creating a truly defining home, with existing or modified plans to suit your every need and want.

The Bridges Estates will be completed in two phases, creating a new premier neighborhood in Tillsonburg’s growing community.

Tillsonburg Developments is the same developer that built Baldwin Place, an award-winning adult lifestyle community of singledetached homes in Tillsonburg, which was voted number three of the top 10 Adult Lifestyle Communities in Canada.

Interior designs and finishes at The Bridges Estates can be varied to suit the tastes of purchasers. Like with the exterior colours and finishes, Tillsonburg Developments employs the services of an interior designer to help buyers select colours, materials and overall design, in a calm and relaxing manner.

Other features at The Bridges Estates are covered rear porches, with optional outdoor fireplaces, larger double car garages with optional direct access to the basement. Homes are built with 10-ft. ceilings on the main floor and nine-ft. ceilings on the upper level. Taller windows, eliminating the need for transoms,

capture more natural light, and are matched with eight-ft.-high doors throughout the main floor, including the front entrance.

The recently opened model home showcases a wide selection of features and upgrade options, including heated floors in the garage, ensuite and main bath and basement, two-storey ceilings in the Great Room, complete with multiple coffered ceilings, and a dry stacked brick fireplace.

All exterior doors, windows, mirrors, glass showers and glass railings are supplied by Tillsonburg Glass and Mirror, another Heckford family operation, in business for more than 85 years and currently run by the family’s fourth generation and son of Kirby Heckford, the builder and president of Tillsonburg Developments, Warren Heckford.

All homes at The Bridges Estates either back onto ravines, treed areas or the golf course.

Homeowners can also enjoy the recently renovated clubhouse and pro-shop, and coming soon will be a newly built celebration centre, suitable for weddings, sports events, family celebrations and more.

Don’t know Tillsonburg? This beautiful little town of about 19,000 is located on Hwy. 19-S, just 23 kms south of Hwy. 401 and southwest of Woodstock, Ont. It’s also within easy access to London, Kitchener-

Waterloo, Cambridge, Toronto and other destinations offering a wide variety of businesses, retail, health care and entertainment. A short drive of just 23 kms to the south and you’ll find yourself in Port Burwell, Ont. on the sandy shores of Lake Erie.

“It’s the friendliest of towns, where everyone you pass on the street will say hello. It’s the kind of thing missing from the larger centres these days.” This is just one of the comments heard repeatedly from those who have made Tillsonburg their home in recent years.

“We were told that this was a beautiful small town, but it has so much to offer it doesn’t seem

so small,” is another comment newcomers repeatedly make.

In addition to the wide selection of businesses and services at both entrances to the town, the main drag is also known as “Canada’s widest street,” a beautiful tree-lined street where cars park on an angle to afford free parking for all to enjoy. The Tillsonburg Mall, right in the heart of town, combines with The Norfolk Mall, on the southern entrance of Tillsonburg to provide residents with another 200-plus stores and services.

A short walk from Tillsonburg’s main street is the full-service Tillsonburg District Memorial Hospital. Health care in the area is further enhanced by the Woodstock Hospital which, since it opened in 2011, has continued to expand its services.

For family entertainment, the manmade Lake Lisgar offers a waterpark, sailing, rowing and fishing. A nearby multi-million-dollar community centre features a twin-pad arena, and for those who enjoy strolling community trails, there are 17.5 kms of walking trails to explore.

At the south end of the town is the Bridges Golf Course, which is currently undergoing changes to take it from 18 holes to 12, and to accommodate The Bridges Estates residential development.

For more information, visit tdinewhomes.ca or call 519.842.4251.

HOUSING AFFORDABILITY

IS ESSENTIAL TO PROTECTING ONTARIO

What happens to a province when the people who live there – the teachers, nurses, tradespeople, small business owners – can no longer afford the communities they serve?

It is a question we cannot afford to ignore.

TRREB CEO John DiMichele puts it simply, “Protecting Ontario must include ensuring that residents can afford to live and work here.”

At TRREB, we believe housing affordability is not just an economic issue. It is a defining challenge that will shape the future of our province. Housing is a cornerstone of stability and opportunity. If people are priced out of the market, we risk losing not just residents, but the heart of our communities.

TACKLE THE ROOT CAUSES

Ontario has set an ambitious goal to build 1.5 million homes by 2031. Reaching that target will require real collaboration and meaningful change.

That means modernizing zoning bylaws, investing in infrastructure and removing the red tape that delays much needed development.

As DiMichele says, “We need policies that support building more homes, more quickly, in the right places, and that recognize affordability as a critical part of Ontario’s economic infrastructure.”

TRREB continues to advocate for these changes. We are calling for a diverse mix of housing types to reflect the evolving needs of Ontarians, from

first-time buyers and young families to newcomers and retirees.

A REALTOR PERSPECTIVE

As realtors, we see the sacrifices individuals and families are making to address the affordability crisis every day – moving farther from their jobs, delaying major life decisions, or struggling to enter the market at all. We do not just help people buy and sell homes. We help them find stability and build futures. That is why TRREB remains committed to solutions that support sustainable growth and real affordability.

THE PATH FORWARD

We all want to see Ontario thrive. To protect what makes this province

strong, we need to make it more affordable to live here. That means housing policies that keep pace with real needs and strong leadership to make them a reality.

To read DiMichele’s full op-ed and learn more about TRREB’s advocacy, visit trreb.ca.

MARKHAM’S PREMIER LIFESTYLE COMMUNITY

Situated in the heart of Unionville, this collection includes elegant detached homes ranging from 2,500 to 6,000 square feet, and luxurious townhomes from 2,000 to 2,700 square feet — all with the highest standards of design and construction.

Angus Glen South Village is surrounded by premium amenities. Unionville’s historic Main Street and nature trails, valley lands and parks are all just steps away. Inquire today about our 2025 Incentives available now.

dream bathrooms DESIGNING

As an interior designer for a luxury homebuilder, I spend a lot of time thinking about how bathrooms are used – and how they can be enjoyed. A bathroom isn’t just a necessity; it’s a space to retreat, refresh and reset. That’s why, when we design our homes, we prioritize spacious, functional ensuites for the principal residents. We also consider the layout and convenience of secondary bathrooms, whether shared between bedrooms or private. With the rise in multi-generational living, homes today often feature more than one “primary” suite, each with its own thoughtfully designed bathroom.

by MARIAM ABOUTAAM

SEAMLESS CABINETRY

Our bathroom cabinetry comes from the same supplier as our kitchens, and in many model homes, we carry over the same style and colour to maintain a cohesive look, especially effective in main floor powder rooms adjacent to kitchens. Sometimes we tweak the design by changing the cabinet door profile or hardware to subtly distinguish the space. Vanities can vary widely to suit the home’s overall style. We may use textured wood with built-in shelving for a custom furniture feel, sleek wall-mounted units for a modern vibe, or classic paneled designs with either matte or gloss finishes. The key

is consistency with the overall colour palette and architectural tone of the home.

TUBS THAT FIT YOUR LIFESTYLE

From integrated tub-and-shower combos to standalone bathtubs, there are plenty of options based on layout and lifestyle. Freestanding tubs, usually paired with separate showers, offer a spa-like experience. They come in a variety of shapes, such as oval or rectangular, and some manufacturers even offer colour options or decorative aprons for added wow.

Tip: Want a budget-friendly upgrade? Extend your large-format floor tiles up

the wall behind the vanity, around the tub or inside the shower. This design idea enhances the look while making the space easier to keep clean.

POWDER ROOM WITH PERSONALITY

The powder room is one of the most visited spaces in a home, so why not give it some drama? We love using wall-mounted cabinetry, integrated linear sinks, striking countertops in granite or quartzstone, bold paint or wallpaper, and statement light fixtures. These elements can be used together or on their own to make a memorable impact.

Tip: take the porcelain up to the ceiling and add a backlit mirror, you’ll be amazed how beautiful this looks.

LET THE LIGHT SHINE

Lighting in bathrooms is not only functional it can also be a feature. Try wall sconces instead of standard vanity lighting for a softer, more designed look. Adding a decorative ceiling fixture, pendant or chandelier, instantly becomes a striking focal point.

FAUCET FINISHES

Faucets are an effortless way to infuse personality into your bathroom. I’ve successfully worked with a wide range of finishes such as polished and brushed chrome, nickel, brass, copper tones and black. You may like the look of a wall mounted faucet, which adds to the overall amount of countertop space, but ensure you choose your sink to work with these. Other considerations are whether you have a single handled or doublehandled faucet. The style and finish should match your overall vision and budget, whether you’re aiming for timeless elegance or bold contrast.

STYLISH, FUNCTIONAL SHOWERS

Showers are often the most-used part of the bathroom, and they deserve to look beautiful, too. For a timeless result in one model home, I paired black, non-slip chevronpatterned floor tile with white/grey marble-look porcelain on the walls, complemented by warm wood accents which really resonated with visitors to the model. Another way to add interest is to try a border of contrasting tiles or a mix of glossy and matte finishes.

Tip: Built-in shower niches and benches add both convenience and elegance, keeping products tucked away and enhancing the bathing experience.

FINISHING TOUCHES MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE

Natural light in a bathroom is always a plus. From bold drapery to soft, light-diffusing shades, the right window treatment balances privacy with style. Adding furniture like a small table beside the tub or a brightly painted chair brings character and functionality to the room. A well-placed plant or two also brings the outdoors in, adding a calming, organic element to your retreat.

Whatever your bathroom vision, whether it’s serene, sophisticated or full of personality, thoughtful design choices will make the space a daily joy.

COMING UP NEXT…

Whether you’re seeking privacy, light control or a stylish finishing touch, the right window coverings can transform your home. In my next column, I’ll explore options from elegant drapes to modern shades offering ideas to enhance your home’s interior with both style and function.

FIND YOUR NEXT HOME

The latest properties in the Greater Toronto Area to keep your eye on

AJAX

1. Time Rossland Road marshallhomes.ca

AURORA

2. Queen’s Grove Collection Yonge St. & Bloomington Rd. northstarhomes.com

3. Allegro 36 Klees Cres. geranium.com

4. Shinning Hill 24 St John’s Sideroad countrywide.ca

BRAMPTON

5. Bodhi Towns Fogal Road & Nexus Ave. countrywide.ca

6. DUO Condos 245 Steeles Ave. W. duocondos.ca

7. Three Rivers Claireville Goreway Dr. & Humberwest Pkwy nationalhomes.com

8. Queens Lane Townhomes Mississauga Rd. & Queen St. branthavenbrampton.com

9. Classic Drive Creditview’s Valley Lands & Lionshead Golf and Country Club branthaven.com

10. Union Mississauga Rd. & Bovaird Dr. mattamyhomes.com

BRANTFORD

11. Brant West 501 Shellard Lane losanihomes.com

CALEDON

12. Palgrave Estates Mount Pleasant Rd. & Hunsden Rd. flatogroup.com

13. Ellis Lane Chinguacousy Road & Mayfield Road mattamyhome.com

CLAIREMONT

14. Cresthaven Estates Brock Rd & Central Street

COURTICE

15. The Vale 57 Glen Eagles Dr. nationalhomes.com

ETOBICOKE

16. The 900 Condo Signature Residences 900 The East Mall 9hundredcondo.ca

17. Blvd Q 3300 Bloor Street West mattamyhomes.com

18. Westbend Residences Bloor & High Park mattamyhomes.com

19. The Clove 240 The East Mall Cres mattmayhomes.com

KING CITY

20. Triple Crown Estates Dufferin Street & 15th Sideroad remingtonhomes.ca

KLEINBURG

21. Kleinburg Hills Appleyard Ave countrywidehomes.ca

MARKHAM/ UNIONVILLE

22. Cornell Markham Bur Oak Ave. & Hwy 7 ballantryhomes.com

23. Spring Water 3217 Elgins Mills Rd. mattamyhomes.com

24. Angus Glen South Village 9980 Kennedy Rd., #200. kylemorecommunities.com

25. Kennedy Manors 4500 Major Mackenzie Dr East. kylemorecommunities.com NORTH YORK

26. 28 Hunslow Yonge and Finch mattamyhomes.com

OSHAWA

27. Park Ridge Conlin & Townline Rds. tributecommunities.com

28. Mackenzie Park MacKenzie Ave. brightstone.ca

29. Schoolhaus Mclaughlin in West Oshawa brightstone.ca

PICKERING

30. Seaton Whitevale 1535 Whitevale Road mattamyhomes.com

31. Seaton Mulberry 1075 Taunton Rd. mattamyhomes.com

PORT PERRY

32. Courts of King’s Bay Near Port Perry geranium.com

RICHMOND HILL

33. Jefferson Reserve 363 Jefferson Side Road countrywide.ca

34. Observatory Hill Bayview Ave. & 16th Ave. myobservatoryhill.ca

TORONTO

35. Lambtown Towns 2650 St. Clair West dunparhomes.com

36. 2650 St. Clair Ave W. 2650 St. Clair Ave W dunparhomes.com

37. Westbend Residences Bloor & High Park mattamyhomes.com

THORNHILL

38. The Elms Steeles Ave W brightstone.ca

WHITBY

39. Country Lane Taunton Rd. & Country Lane countrylanewhitby.com

40. Wellings of Whitby 372 Taunton Road E wellingsofwhitby.com

WOODBRIDGE

41. Sora Vista Pine Valley & Teston Rd soravista.ca

42. Woodend Place Major MacKenzie & Pine Valley Dr. woodendtowns.ca

BUILDERS IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO INCLUDE YOUR PREVIEW REGISTRATION, NEW RELEASE OR SITE OPENING IN THIS FEATURE, JUST EMAIL THE DETAILS TO EDITORIAL@NEXTHOME.CA

BURLINGTON/ WATERDOWN

1. Northshore Condo 484-490 Plains Rd. E. nationalhomes.com

2. Tyandaga Heights Burlington nationalhomes.com

4. Northshore Towns 490 Plains Rd. E. nationalhomes.com

5. Martha James Condominiums Martha and James St mattamyhomes.com

CAMBRIDGE

6. Modal at Main 840 Main St, Cambridge modalatmain.ca

ELORA

7. South River 133 South River Rd. granitehomes.ca

FERGUS

8. Bellwood Estates Fergus geranium.com

GEORGETOWN

9. Juniper Gate 10130 10 Line, Norval remingtonhomes.com

GRIMSBY

10. Grimsby Waterfront 398 N Service Rd. losanihomes.com

GUELPH

11. Argyle Village Lowes Rd E & Gordon Street argylevillage.ca

12. Northside Guelph Woolrich St & 7 granitehomes.ca

13. The Block on Clair 331 Clair Rd E. reidsheritagehomes.ca

14. Clairmont 25 Poppy Street mattmyhomes.com

HAMILTONWENTWORTH

15. Soho Homes at Barton & Glover Barton St. & Glover Rd. losanihomes.com

16. Highland Park & Central Park: Midtown & Soho

Upper Red Hill Valley Pkwy & Rymal Rd. losanihomes.com

KITCHENER/ WATERLOO

17. Wildflowers Huron Rd & Trussler Rd mattamyhomes.com

18. Lackner Ridge Lackner Blvd & Ottawa St N lacknerridgetowns.ca

MILTON

19. Mile & Creek 760 Whitlock Ave. mattamyhomes.com

20. Thompson Towers Thompson Rd. S & Drew Centre thompsontowers.ca

21. Hawthorn East Village

Louis & Lavert Ave mattamyhomes.com

22. The Laurels Brittania Rd & Hwy 25 mattamyhomes.com

MISSISSAUGA

23. Whitehorn Woods 1240 Britannia Rd. W. nationalhomes.com

24. OG Urban Towns 1528 Dundas St W brigtstone.ca

25. The Nine 6587 Ninth Line mattamyhomes.com

26. Everwood 6578 Ninth Line, Mississauga mattamyhomes.com

NIAGARA REGION

27. Luna 205 St. Davids Rd, Thorold silvergatehomes.com

28. Harbourtown Village 574 Seneca Drive, Fort Erie silvergatehomes.com

29. Bench Mark Ontario St. & Drake Losanihomes.com

OAKVILLE

30. Upper Joshua Creek 1254 Burnamthorpe Rd. mattamyhomes.com

31. Onyx Trail 1213 Onyx Trail mattamyhomes.com

32. Carding House 292 Ironside Drive mattamyhomes.com

33. Clock Works at Upper Joshua Creek 1388 Dundas Street W. Oakville mattmyhomes.com

34. Kerr Village brightsone.ca

35. West & Post 2714 Westoak Trails Blvd. branthavenoakville.com

PARIS

36. Riverbank Estates Nirh River losanihomes.com

ST. CATHARINES

37. Lincoln Estates Lincoln Ave. & King St. losanihomes.com

38. Lusso Urban Towns Martindale Rd. & Grapeview Dr, St. Catharines lucchettahomes.com

39. Merritton Mills St. Catharines silvergatehomes.com

ST. THOMAS

40. Harvest Run Centennial Parkway & Elm Street dougtarryhomes.com

41. Prudhomme’s Landing 1051 Old Thorold Stone Road silvergatehomes.com

STRATFORD

42. Poet & Perth Quinlan Rd & O’Loane Ave, Stratford. poetperth.ca

STONEY CREEK

43 Maplewood Park Upper Creswood maplewoodstoneycreek.com

44. Sweetberry Barton & Glover sweetberrytowns.ca

TILLSONBURG

45. The Bridge Estates Greenhill Dr. tdinewhomes.ca

WELLAND

46. Davis Heights 1535 Haist St, Pelham lucchettahomes.com

47. The Residences at Hunters Pointe 71 Kyntre Trail lucchettahomes.com

48. Riverside at Hunter’s Point 300 Daimler Pkwy., Welland lucchettahomes.com

WEST REGION

49. St. George Village Concession 2 & Woodhill Rd. losanihomes.com

50. Brant West 562 Shellard Ln losanihomes.com

51. Expressions & Riverbank Estates 1021 Rest Acres Rd., Paris losanihomes.com

52. Cottonwood Dingle St. sifton.com

53. Edgewood Suites 270 Hagan Street East, Dundalk flato.com

54. Discoverie Condos 7 Central Ave Fort Erie DiscoverieCondos.ca

Niagara Falls

Welland St Catharines

BARRIE

1. Vicinity & Vicinity West Essa Rd & McKay Rd W mattamyhomes.com

2. Midhurst Valley 1296 Carson Rd. geranium.com

3. Heartland Hwy 89 & Yonge St., Baxter brookfieldhomes.ca

4. Midhurst Hwy 26 & Bayfield Rd. Brookfieldhomes.ca

BEETON

5. GreenRidge & Beeton Village 41 Main St. W. flatogroup.com

CAMBELLFORD

6. Haven on the Trent Forest Hill Rd. & Riverside Trail sifton.com

COLLINGWOOD

7. Mountain House at Windfall Mountain Rd. & Crosswinds Blvd. georgianinternational.com

8. Collingwood Maple & Sixth Street georgianinternational.ca

9. Reverie 391 First St, Collingwood reverietowns.com

COURTICE

10. The Vale Prestonvale Rd. & Bloor St. nationalhomes.com

DUNDALK

11. Edgewood Suites 270 Hagan St. E., Dundalk edgewoodsuites.ca

HORSESHOE VALLEY

12. Craighurst Horseshoe Valley Rd. & Hwy. 93 georgianinternational.com

13. Braestone Horseshoe Valley 3246 Line 9 North georgianinternational.com

INNISFIL

14. Lakehaven 25th Side Road & 10th Line mattamyhomes.com

NEWCASTLE

15. Belmont treasurehill.com

OWEN SOUND

16. Greystone Village 1800 2nd Ave. E. flatogroup.com

PETERBOROUGH

17. Parklands & The Condo Arbour Villas 1224 Chemong Rd. masonhomes.ca

PORT HOPE/ COBOURG

18. Port Hope Lakeside Village 415 Lakeshore Rd. masonhomes.ca

19. Kingswood Cobourg 425 King St. E. masonhomes.ca

20. Meadow Heights 82 Hillcrest Road, Port Colborne dunsire.com

SHELBURNE

21. Emerald Crossing Hwy. 89 & Hurontario St. fieldgatehomes.com

NEW-HOME BUYERS PAY UNFAIR SHARE

FOR INFRASTRUCTURE AND SERVICES IN

GTA

Throughout the federal election campaign, the negative impacts of sky-high development charges (DCs) on housing supply and affordability in the GTA featured prominently. In our region, these fees, which are rolled into the cost of new homes and passed on to new-home buyers, are not just the highest in Canada, but in North America.

As municipalities grow, there is no denying the need for more infrastructure, however, it is well past time for a meaningful discussion on who pays for what and to find alternative ways to fund growthrelated costs. Only so much can be borne by new-home buyers and with the current DC rates in the GTA, they are shouldering a disproportionate amount.

The development charge system in Ontario has existed for more than 30 years. DCs are levied by municipalities on all types of development, including new homes, to offset the cost of roads, transit, emergency, water, sewer and other services. What began as a small charge in the late 1990s has ballooned to more than $125,000 on a new single-family home in many GTA municipalities. DCs, by design, serve a useful purpose in establishing housing-supportive infrastructure, but now too much cost is being shifted to the new-home buyer, thereby undermining affordability and distorting the type and supply of new housing coming to market.

To illustrate who pays for what and how much, let’s compare what an average tax ratepayer contributed to on an annual basis to what the buyer of a new, single-family home in Toronto paid for based on the 2024 budget and current DC rates. Of note, once a new-home is occupied, the new home buyer joins the ranks of the ratepayer and continues contributing through annual property taxes.

In the City of Toronto, based on the 2024 budget, property taxes on the average home were $3,904. Since the property average includes both houses and apartments, to allow for a more complete apples to apples comparison, we will also blend the DC rates. In Toronto, a new, singlefamily home draws $137,846 in DCs, a two-bedroom apartment: $80,690, and a one-bedroom and bachelor: $52,676. This yields an average DC of $90,404.

In terms of public transportation, a new-home buyer (based on the blended product type) paid $2,875 toward the Spadina subway extension – regardless of the home’s proximity to the transit corridor and whether its owner used it. Additionally, the average homebuyer paid another $34,877 for public transit. Conversely, the average ratepayer paid $542 toward transit. The $34,877 is equivalent to what a typical ratepayer would pay in 64 years through taxes; equivalent to 10,411 Toronto Transit Commission fares of $3.35 or equal to riding the TTC once a day for 28.5 years.

To support roads, water and wastewater infrastructure, an average new home in Toronto paid $33,024 compared to $700 in capital investments and financing paid by

the average ratepayer. The DC is the equivalent of 47 years of annual taxes paid in one shot.

The new-home buyer contributed $13,287 toward parks and recreation while the ratepayer paid $324 for “other city operations,” which is broader than just parks and recreation. In one payment, the newhome buyer paid what an existing ratepayer would pay in 41 years.

Only for police, emergency services and social services is there any semblance of balance. However, the new-home buyer paid more in all instances, but the yearly multiples were much more restrained.

There must be some cost split and new-home buyers should pay their fair share, but roads, water infrastructure, parks and recreation and transit services benefit everyone. This is the case across all GTA municipalities. Laudably, Vaughan and Mississauga have recently reduced their DCs.

As housing starts have dwindled, we are well overdue for a frank discussion about who pays for what and the need to right-size DCs so they do not undermine the region’s housing affordability and supply anymore than they already have.

Dave Wilkes is President and CEO of the Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD), the voice of the homebuilding, land development and professional renovation industry in the GTA. For the latest industry news and new home data, follow BILD on Twitter, @bildgta or visit bildgta.ca.

DAVE WILKES

Beautiful, integrated masonry + landscape products for over 150 years.