LONDON, August 9, 2007 — Canada’s New Government and the Government of Ontario today announced more than $173 million in funding to create more than 2,700 new affordable housing units in 41 towns and cities across Ontario under the Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program Agreement.

The announcement was made by the Honourable Monte Solberg, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development Canada, and the Honourable John Gerretsen, Ontario’s Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

“Canada’s New Government is working to give Canadians access to safe and affordable housing,” said Minister Solberg. “We are pleased to work with our partners in both the public and private sector to help individuals, seniors, and families in Ontario who are working towards building a better and stronger future.”

“The McGuinty government is proud that we’re making significant progress in building new affordable housing across the province,” said Minister Gerretsen. “Providing affordable housing for Ontario’s most vulnerable families is an important part of our plan for building stronger communities.”

Today’s announcement was made at the London Innercity Faith Team (LIFT) King Street Project, a future affordable housing apartment complex in London. The $3.25 million project, which includes $1.93 million from the Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program, will result in 30 apartment units for low-income single people, including people with disabilities. With today’s announcement, the City of London will receive an additional $12 million in funding under the Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program.

“This funding is very important to all Londoners, as we continue to combat homelessness in our community and beyond,” says London Mayor Anne Marie DeCicco-Best. “We know there is a critical need for more affordable housing, not just here in London, but right across the country. And, this renewed commitment to the Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program is a pivotal step toward realizing a national solution.”

“LIFT is pleased that its partnership with member churches, individuals, corporations and with all levels of government will create this permanently affordable housing needed for our low income residents,” said Vic Morris, Chair of LIFT Council.

The new Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Agreement includes a commitment of $301 million from each of the two levels of government. The agreement brings the total amount invested in affordable housing in Ontario by federal, provincial and municipal governments to at least $734 million over the life of the program. This will mean assistance to some 20,000 households under the Affordable Housing Agreement.

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Backgrounder

Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program Projects

Brantford

• $550,000 for an 11-unit project at 163 Market Street in Brantford. The project is sponsored by Meadows Court Properties and the units will be occupied by low-income families and individuals, including people with disabilities.
• $750,000 for a 15-unit project at 178 Market Street in Brantford. The project is sponsored by Freedom House and the units will be occupied by low-income families and individuals, including people with disabilities.
• $2.4 million for a 78-unit project at Sherwood Avenue in Brantford. The project is sponsored by Sherwood Apartments Inc., and the units will be occupied by low-income individuals, including people with disabilities.
• $420,000 for a six-unit project at 5 and 7 Walnut Street in Brantford. The project is sponsored by Brant Native Housing and the units will be occupied by low-income families.
• $1.4 million for a 24-unit project at 130 West River Street in Paris. The project is sponsored by Meadows Court Properties and the units will be occupied by low-income families and individuals, including people with disabilities.

Bruce County

• $420,000 for a six-unit project at 294 Berford Street in Wiarton. The project is sponsored by the Bruce Peninsula Association for Community Living and the units will be occupied by low-income individuals with disabilities.
• $600,000 for a 12-unit project on Tomlinson Drive in Port Elgin. The project is sponsored by 1691085 Ontario Inc. and the units will be occupied by low-income families and individuals, including persons with disabilities.
• $420,000 for a six-unit project on Charles Street in Wiarton. Sponsored by A Place for Miracles, the units will be occupied by low-income families and individuals.
• $240,000 for a four-unit project in Kincardine that will be occupied by low-income families and individuals.
• $240,000 for a four-unit project in Port Elgin that will be occupied by low-income families and individuals.
• $180,000 for a three-unit project in Wiarton that will be occupied by low-income families and individuals.

Chatham – Kent

• $840,000 for a 12-unit project at 59 Adelaide Street South in Chatham. The project is sponsored by Remmcor Ltd. and the units will be occupied by low-income families and individuals, including people with disabilities.
• $240,000 for a four-unit project at Victoria Avenue in Chatham for low-income families.

District of Algoma

• $700,000 for a 10-unit project at 141 Church Street in Echo Bay. The project is sponsored by Algoma District Services Administration Board and the units will be occupied by low-income seniors.

Grey County

• $2.17 million for a 37-unit project in Owen Sound. The project is sponsored by the Owen Sound Municipal Non-Profit Housing Corporation and the units will be occupied by low-income families and individuals, including people with disabilities.

Hamilton

• $10.5 million for a 156-unit project at 398 King Street West in Hamilton. The project is sponsored by Good Shepherd Non Profit Homes Inc., and the units will be occupied by low-income individuals, including people with disabilities.

Huron County

• $348,000 for a six-unit project on Albert Street in Clinton. The project is sponsored by Leasenet Holdings Ltd. and the units will be occupied by low-income individuals, including people with disabilities.
• $141,000 for a three-unit project at 18 Waterloo Street in Goderich. The project is sponsored by Bruce and Dana Gibbings and the units will be occupied by low-income individuals, including people with disabilities.
• $1.05 million for a 15-unit project at 45 Nelson Street in Goderich. The project is sponsored by the Goderich Bethel Pentecostal Church and Goderich Salvation Army and the units will be occupied by low-income individuals, including people with disabilities.

Kingston

• $1.68 million for a 24-unit project at 41 Joseph Street in Kingston. The project is sponsored by Kingston Home Base Non-Profit Housing Inc., and the units will be occupied by low-income families.

Lambton County

• $1.1 million for a 16-unit project at 700 Cathcart Boulevard and $130,000 for a two-unit project on Kathleen Avenue in Sarnia. The projects are sponsored by the County of Lambton and the units will be occupied by low-income families and individuals, including seniors.
• $525,000 for a seven-unit project at 4189 Petrolia Line in Petrolia. The project is sponsored by Lambton County Development Services and the units will be occupied by low-income individuals with disabilities.
• $816,000 for a 12-unit project at 320 Christina Street South in Sarnia. The project is sponsored by Raylar Construction Ltd. and the units will be occupied low-income individuals with disabilities.

London

• $420,000 for a six-unit project at 1554 Allen Place and $420,000 for a six-unit project at 1555 Allen Place in London. These projects are sponsored by the Nelms Group and the units will be occupied by low-income individuals with disabilities.
• $2.55 million for a 34-unit project at 859-869 Adelaide Street North in London. The project is sponsored by Adelaide North Developments Inc. and the units will be occupied by low-income families.
• $1.9 million for a 30-unit project at 446 King Street in London. The LIFT King Street project is sponsored by the Council of LIFT Non-Profit Housing Corporation and the units will be occupied by low-income individuals, including people with disabilities.
• $3.64 million for a 52-unit project at 570 Nelson Street in London. The Nelson Place Affordable Housing project is sponsored by Homes Unlimited Inc. and the units will be occupied by low-income families and individuals, including people with disabilities.
• $1.82 million for a 26-unit project at 1461 Huron Street in London. The project is sponsored by Twin Pines Village Co-op Inc., and the units will be occupied by low-income individuals.
• $1.4 million for a 20-unit project on Hamilton Street in Komoka. The project is sponsored by Lobo Township Non-Profit Apartment Corporation and the units will be occupied by low-income seniors.

Niagara Region

• $1.4 million for a 20-unit project sponsored by Keefer Developments Ltd. The units will be occupied by seniors.
• $1.47 million for a 21-unit project at 21 King Street in St. Catharines. The project is sponsored by 21 King Inc. and will be occupied by low-income families and individuals, including people with disabilities.
• $1.6 million for a 23 unit project at 290 Oakdale Avenue in St. Catharines. The project is sponsored by 2077626 Ontario Ltd. and the units will be occupied by low-income families and individuals, including people with disabilities.
• $2.8 million for a 40-unit project at 3009 Valley Way in Niagara Falls. The project is sponsored by the Bethlehem Not for Profit Housing Projects in Niagara and the units will be occupied by low-income families and individuals.
• $205,800 for a three-unit project at 100 Ormond Street in Thorold. The project is sponsored by Capital Pines Development Inc. and the units will be occupied by low-income individuals.
• $1.05 million for a 15-unit project at 755 Fielden Avenue in Port Colborne. The project is sponsored by Community Living Port Colborne Wainfleet and the units will be occupied by low-income individuals, including people with disabilities.
• $1.4 million for a 14-unit project at 54 Oakdale Avenue in St. Catharines. The project is sponsored by Oakdale Landing Inc., and the units will be occupied by low-income individuals.
• $1.4 million for a 20-unit project at 321 Geneva Street in St. Catharines. The project is sponsored by Senior Citizens Apartment Ltd., and the units will be occupied by seniors.
• $630,000 for a nine-unit project at 160 Ontario Street in St. Catharines. The project is sponsored by St. Catharines Mainstream Non Profit Housing Project and Gateway Residential and Community Support Services, and the units will be occupied by low-income individuals, including people with disabilities.

Norfolk County

• $700,000 for a 10-unit project at 10 – 12 Norfolk Street and $80,000 for a 5-unit project at 18 Norfolk Street in Simcoe. The project is sponsored by Haskett Holdings Inc., and the units will be occupied by low-income families and individuals, including people with disabilities.
• $240,000 for a six-unit project at 110 Market Street in Port Dover. The project is sponsored by Port Dover Apartments Inc., and the units will be occupied by low-income individuals.
• $210,000 for a six-unit project at 8 – 14 Alice Street in Waterford. The project is sponsored by Alice Street Apartments Inc., and the units will be occupied by low-income individuals.

Ottawa

• $7 million for a 195-unit project at 424 Metcalfe Street in Ottawa. The project is sponsored by Centretown Citizens Ottawa Corporation and the units will be occupied by low-income individuals.

Oxford County

• $2.1 million for a 30-unit project at 62 Mill Street in Woodstock. The project is sponsored by G.K. York Management Services, and the units will be occupied by low-income families and individuals.
• $600,000 for a 12-unit project at Queen and Bridge Street in Tillsonburg. The project is sponsored by the Town of Tillsonburg Non-Profit Housing Corporation and the units will be occupied by seniors.
• $1.68 million for a 28-unit project at 769 Juliana Drive in Woodstock. The project is sponsored by the Salvation Army Community Church and Anchorage Homes, Services and Initiatives Inc., and the units will be occupied by low-income families and individuals.
• $1 million for a 27-unit project in Woodstock. The project is sponsored by Homestead Christian Care Inc., and the units will be occupied by low-income families and individuals.

Peel Region

• $1.25 million for a 25-unit project at 20 Walker Road East in Caledon. The project is sponsored by the Peel Housing Corporation and the units will be occupied by seniors.

Peterborough

• $3.5 million for a 48-unit project at 443 Reid Street in Peterborough. The project is sponsored by TVM Schoolhouse Inc., and the units will be occupied by low-income families and individuals, including people with disabilities.
• $770,000 for an 11-unit project at 212 Brock Street in Peterborough. This project is sponsored by TVM Tower Residences Inc., and the units will be occupied by low-income individuals, including people with disabilities.
• $1.12 million for a 16-unit project at 49 Argyle Street in Peterborough. The project is sponsored by the Moloney Property Development Corporation and the units will be occupied by low-income families, including people with disabilities.
• $2.1 million for a 30-unit project at 136 Anson Street in Peterborough. The project is sponsored by the Peterborough Housing Corporation and the units will be occupied by low-income families and individuals, including people with disabilities.
• $3.5 million for a 50-unit project at 41 Concession Street in Peterborough. The project is sponsored by the Peterborough Housing Corporation and the units will be occupied by low-income individuals and seniors, including people with disabilities.
• $280,000 for a four-unit project at 220 Edinburgh Street in Peterborough. The project is sponsored by the Peterborough Community Housing Development Corporation and the units will be occupied by low-income individuals and families.

Simcoe County

• $2.94 million for a 42-unit project on Bayfield Street in Barrie. The project is sponsored by Assisi Offering Corporation and the units will be occupied by low-income families and individuals, including people with disabilities.
• $1.4 million for a 20-unit project on 74 High Street in Barrie. The project is sponsored by 873815 Ontario Ltd., and the units will be occupied by low-income families, individuals and seniors, including people with disabilities.
• $1.26 million for an 18-unit project on 80 Simcoe Street in Collingwood. The project is sponsored by the Town of Collingwood and the units will be occupied by low-income families and individuals, including people with disabilities.
• $560,000 for an eight-unit project on 99 Westmount Street in Orillia. The project is sponsored by A.M.K. Construction Ltd., and the units will be occupied by low-income families and individuals, including seniors and people with disabilities.
• $1.89 million for a 27-unit project on 86 Cedar Street in Orillia. The project is sponsored by Hillcrest Lodge Corporation and the units will be occupied by low-income families and individuals, including seniors and people with disabilities.
• $2.8 million for a 40-unit project at Edward and Dunlop Streets in Penetanguishene. The project is sponsored by the County of Simcoe and the units will be occupied by low-income seniors.

St. Thomas

• $2.1 million for a 30-unit project at 2 County Road in Dutton. The Caledonia Two Affordable Housing project is sponsored by Dutton and District Lions Non-Profit Housing Inc. and the units will be occupied by seniors.
• $1.17 million for a 16-unit project at 153 Main Street in West Lorne. The Heritage House Affordable Housing project is sponsored by the West Lorne Heritage Homes Not for Profit Corporation and the units will be occupied by low-income individuals, including seniors and people with disabilities.
• $1.5 million for a 23-unit project at 25 Scott Street in St. Thomas. Sponsored by Novi Construction Limited, the units will be occupied by low-income families and individuals, including people with disabilities.
• $828,000 for a 12-unit project at 78 Steele Street in St. Thomas. The project is sponsored by Walter Ostojic Sons, and the units will be occupied by low-income families and individuals, including people with disabilities.

Stratford

• $1.05 million for a 30-unit project at Forman Avenue in Stratford. The project is sponsored by King Street Holdings Inc., and the units will be occupied by low-income individuals, including people with disabilities.

Toronto

• $4 million for an 87-unit project at 40 Oak Street in Toronto. The project is sponsored by Christian Resource Centre and the units will be occupied by low-income families.
• $4.2 million for a 60-unit project at 244 Church Street in Toronto. The project is sponsored by Nishnawbe Homes Inc. and the units will be occupied by low-income aboriginal persons.
• $5.74 million for an 82-unit project at 200 Madison Avenue in Toronto. The project is sponsored by St. Claire Multifaith Housing Society and the units will be occupied by low-income individuals, including people with disabilities.
• $10.64 million for a 152-unit project at 550 Birchmount Road in Toronto. The project is sponsored by 550 Birchmount Ltd., and the units will be occupied by low-income families and seniors.
• $3.08 million for a 44-unit project at 270 Donlands Avenue in Toronto. The project is sponsored by Woodgreen Community Housing Inc., and the units will be occupied by low-income individuals.
• $2.03 million for a 29-unit project at 194 Dowling Avenue in Toronto. The project is sponsored by the Parkdale Activity Recreation Centre and the units will be occupied by low-income individuals, including people with disabilities.
• $2.17 million for a 31-unit project at 201-203 Vaughn Road in Toronto. The project is sponsored by Mahogany Management and the units will be occupied by low-income individuals, including seniors.
• $1.4 million for a 20-unit project at 1120 Ossington Avenue in Toronto. The project is sponsored by the St. Clair West Affordable Housing (Ossington) Group Incorporated and the units will be occupied by low-income individuals and families, including people with disabilities.
• $13.3 million for a 190-unit project at 48 Abell Street in Toronto. The project is sponsored by the St. Clair Multifaith Housing Society and the units will be occupied by low-income individuals and families, including people with disabilities.
• $9.8 million for a 140-unit project at 288 King Street East in Toronto. The project is sponsored by Toronto Community Housing Corporation and the units will be occupied by low-income families.
• $4.2 million for a 60-unit project at 88-90 Carlton Street in Toronto. The project is sponsored by Toronto Community Housing Corporation and the units will be occupied by low-income families and individuals, including people with disabilities.
• $4.13 million for a 59-unit project at 2335-7 St. Clair Avenue West in Toronto. The project is sponsored by West Toronto Support Services for Senior Citizens and the Disabled Inc., and the units will be occupied by low-income seniors.
• $1.12 million for a 16-unit project at 1187 Queen Street East in Toronto. The project is sponsored by Mainstay Housing and the units will be occupied by low-income individuals.

Waterloo Region

• $4.62 million for a 66-unit project at 26 Ainslie Street in Cambridge. The project is sponsored by Citymedia Group Inc., and the units will be occupied by low-income individuals.
• $700,000 for a 10-unit project at 634 Erb West in Waterloo. The project is sponsored by the Needlewood Glen Housing Co-operative and the units will be occupied by low-income individuals.

Wellington County

• $700,000 for a 10-unit project at 125 Cole Road in Guelph. The project is sponsored by Cole Road Co-operative Community Inc., and the units will be occupied by low-income individuals.

York Region

• $5.95 million for an 85-unit project at Major Mackenzie Drive and Keele Street in Vaughan. The Vaughan Civic Centre Housing Development is sponsored by Housing York Inc. and the units will be occupied by seniors.

The Honourable Monte Solberg, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development Canada announces almost $79 million in funding to create more than 1,100 new affordable housing units in 29 towns and cities across Ontario under the Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program Agreement.

Article source: http://www.cmhc.ca/en/corp/nero/nere/2007/2007-08-09-1130.cfm

HAMILTON, August 13, 2007 — Canada’s New Government, the Government of Ontario and the City of Hamilton held a ceremony today to celebrate the construction of the Hellenic Community Senior’s Residence, an affordable housing project that will provide rental units for lower-income seniors under the Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program.

Gary Goodyear, Member of Parliament for Cambridge, on behalf of the Honourable Monte Solberg, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development; Judy Marsales, Member of Provincial Parliament for Hamilton West, on behalf of the Honourable John Gerretsen, Ontario Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing; and Mayor Fred Eisenberger attended today’s ceremony.

“Canada’s New Government is committed to providing real housing solutions for seniors, so that they can continue to live in their communities and be close to family and friends,” said MP Goodyear. “Seniors in Hamilton will soon have more access to quality, affordable housing to meet their specific needs.”

“The McGuinty government is committed to helping Ontario seniors — the people who built our communities,” said MPP Marsales. “That’s why we are proud to partner with the different levels of government and community organizations to create affordable housing that will allow seniors to live with dignity and independence.”

The $4.7 million project, including $2.5 million from the Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program, will provide 39 apartments at 37 Strathcona Avenue North in the City of Hamilton. The project is sponsored by Hellenic Community of Hamilton and District, and the units will be occupied by lower-income seniors and people with disabilities.

Federal and provincial funding was complemented by more than $1.4 million in municipal financial incentives.

“This project demonstrates the City’s commitment to partnering with the federal and provincial governments and the private sector to provide affordable housing to those citizens who need it,” said Mayor Eisenberger. “This particular development, which will provide affordable housing to lower-income seniors, would not have been possible without these partners, and is a great example of the ongoing revitalization we are seeing in our Lower City neighbourhoods.”

“The Hellenic Community has saved for a long time so we may complete a community project. It is exciting to see the move-in date come closer, and we appreciate the support of our federal, provincial and City of Hamilton partners in making this possible,” said Nathan Hondronicols, President of the Hellenic Community of Hamilton and District.

In Hamilton, the Government of Canada, through the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), has contributed $9.68 million through the Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program.

The new Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program Agreement comprises a commitment of $301 million from each of the two senior levels of government. In total, the federal, provincial and municipal governments will invest at least $734 million in the program, which will provide affordable housing for 20,000 households in Ontario.

Media Contacts:

For more information, please visit:

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Special guests gather together in front of the construction of the Hellenic Community Senior’s Residence to assemble insulating blocks that are being used during its construction. Once completed, this project will provide 39 new affordable housing units for seniors in Hamilton.

Photo (from left to right): Nathan Hondronicols, President of the Hellenic Community of Hamilton and District; Gary Goodyear, Member of Parliament, Cambridge; Fred Eisenberger, Mayor, City of Hamilton; Judy Marsales, Member of Provincial Parliament, Hamilton West; Chris Murray, Director of Housing, City of Hamilton; Brian McHattie, City Councillor, Hamilton.

Article source: http://www.cmhc.ca/en/corp/nero/nere/2007/2007-08-13-1300.cfm

TREB President’s Column as it appears every Friday in the Toronto Sun’s Resale Homes and Condos section.

August 24, 2012 — Most of us agree that Toronto’s greatest strength is the people who choose to make this City their home.  We can’t make Toronto a world class City by pushing people away, but that’s exactly what the Toronto Land Transfer Tax is doing. This concerns us, and it is why we launched a new web site www.LetsGetThisRightToronto.ca. Together, we can build a great city, but we need to get this right.

A poll conducted by Ipsos Reid, found that 25 percent of Torontonians expecting to move in the next two years are planning to leave Toronto for the 905 regions. In contrast, only three percent of 905 residents expecting to move in the next two years are planning to come to Toronto. 

Looking at the cause of this trend, the poll also found important links to the Toronto Land Transfer Tax, with 75% of people in Toronto and the 905 regions who are expecting to move in the next two years saying that they are more likely to move outside of Toronto specifically because of the Toronto Land Transfer Tax.  Among the other findings of the poll were:

• 66% of Torontonians support plans to repeal the Toronto Land Transfer Tax;
• 77% of Torontonians who recently purchased a home in Toronto feel that they received little or no added value in City services for the amount of Land Transfer Tax paid;
• A third of first-time buyers indicated that they had to pay some Land Transfer Tax to the City, notwithstanding City rebates.

The Toronto Land Transfer Tax is no way to build a great City. It creates inequality among our residents; it perpetuates irresponsible City budgeting; it threatens jobs; it makes our City less affordable; it makes City Hall less accountable; it hurts our environment; and it makes our roads even busier. Tell City Council that you want the Toronto Land Transfer Tax repealed.

We are committed and willing to do what it takes to ensure that City Council hears the public’s voice on this issue. 

The website www.LetsGetThisRightToronto.ca provides information and gives the public numerous ways to have their say.  The web site allows the public to easily send in their views directly to their City Councillor, become more informed on this issue, and encourage others to speak out also. 

We launched this campaign for one simple reason: we want Toronto to succeed.

Putting our voices together, we can build a great City and it’s important, for all of us, that we get this right. We understand the importance of quality services to building a great city, but we believe that those services should be funded fairly and reliably.

So I encourage you to check out the website www.LetsGetThisRightToronto.ca, become more informed and have your say!

Ann Hannah is President of the Toronto Real Estate Board,
a professional association that represents 34,000 REALTORS®
in the Greater Toronto Area.

Follow TREB on www.twitter.com/TREBhome, www.Facebook.com/TorontoRealEstateBoard and www.youtube.com/TREBChannel

Article source: http://www.torontorealestateboard.com/market_news/president_columns/pres_sun_col/index.htm

OTTAWA, August 15, 2007 — Ontario’s first trust agreement under Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s (CMHC) On-Reserve Homeownership Loan Insurance Pilot was signed today by the Wikwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve and CMHC, on behalf of the Government of Canada.  

This agreement provides enhanced access to homeownership loan insurance to First Nation members of the Manitoulin Island reserve.

“Today’s agreement will improve the availability of market housing for this First Nation community. It will expand  access to homeownership financing by further facilitating the flow of private-sector lending for housing purposes,” said the Honourable Monte Solberg, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development and Minister Responsible for CMHC. “This agreement will help expand the benefits of market housing to the Wikwemikong and can serve as a model for other First Nations communities across the country who are looking for new ways to help their members enjoy greater access to homeownership.”

CMHC’s On-Reserve Homeownership Loan Insurance Pilot supports the Government of Canada’s commitment to work with Aboriginal peoples on a comprehensive and transformative approach that will allow them to meet their housing needs over the long term.

“Our community believes that this agreement broadens our housing options. This pilot project allows qualifying Band members to apply for independent financing so that they can realize their housing goals,” said Chief Robert Corbiere.

Wikwemikong has been taking advantage of various CMHC programs for more than 15 years to help address their housing needs. For example, they have built more than 300 units of assisted housing, and they are breaking ground on a 30-unit assisted housing apartment building — the largest multi-unit project ever under CMHC’s On-Reserve Non-Profit Housing Program in Ontario. They have successfully used training programs on mold remediation to address problems on the reserve and shared that knowledge with other bands to help them manage their mold issues.

The Pilot product is just one of a number of tools available to help First Nations pursue market housing objectives. Earlier this year, Canada’s New Government announced the First Nations Market Housing Fund to provide additional financing options to First Nation communities. These are two ways in which this government is working to provide First Nations on-reserve with the same housing opportunities and responsibilities as other Canadians.

Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) has been Canada’s national housing agency for more than 60 years. CMHC is committed to helping Canadians access a wide choice of quality, affordable homes, while making vibrant, healthy communities and cities a reality across the country.

Additional information about the operation of the On-Reserve Homeownership Loan Insurance Pilot is available on CMHC’s website at http://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/en/ab/onre/onre_009.cfm

For more information, please contact:

Kristen Scheel
Media Relations
CMHC
613-748-4632

Left to right, back row:
Robert Restoule, CMHC, Aboriginal Housing; Jeff Toulouse, Director of Housing, Wikwemikong; Cecilia Pitawankwat, Councillor, Wikwemikong Indian Band; Margaret Manitowabi, Councillor, Wikwemikong Indian Band; Nickki Manitowabi, Chief Financial Officer, Wikwemikong; Paul Kilala, Business Services Manager, CMHC
Left to right, front row:
Walter Manitowabi, Elder, Wikwemikong; Hazel Fox-Recollet, Councillor, Wikwemikong; Peter Friedmann, General Manager, Ontario Region, CMHC

Article source: http://www.cmhc.ca/en/corp/nero/nere/2007/2007-08-15-1330.cfm

FORT FRANCES, August 23, 2007 — Canada’s New Government, the Government of Ontario, and the Rainy River District Social Services Administration Board (RRDSSAB) today announced funding that will assist up to 30 low-income households to make urgently needed home repairs. The $700,000 program is funded under the Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program.

The announcement was made today by the Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Health and Minister for the Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario, on behalf of the Honourable Monte Solberg, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development; the Honourable John Gerretsen, Ontario Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing; and Rainy River District Social Services Administration Board Chair Mike Lewis.

“Canada’s New Government is committed to supporting safe and affordable housing for lower income families,” said Minister Clement. “Through this investment we are making an important difference in the lives of families in the Rainy River District who are working towards building a stronger and better future for themselves.”

“The McGuinty government is committed to provide housing assistance to vulnerable people in northern Ontario,” said Minister Gerretsen. “The Northern Housing component of our Affordable Housing Program was established specifically to recognize the unique housing needs of communities in the north, and plays an important role in helping low income families to rehabilitate their homes.”

Eligible repairs include remediation of major structural, electrical, plumbing, heating, fire safety, septic and water system deficiencies. Modifications to accommodate people with disabilities, such as wheelchair ramps and lifts, are also eligible for funding under the program. Funding is limited to low-income households.

“This program demonstrates the RRDSSAB’s ongoing commitment to some of the most vulnerable people in our District, and will benefit many homeowners,” said Mike Lewis, RRDSSAB Chair. There are many seniors who could not make these essential repairs without the assistance available through this program. “

Qualified homeowners may receive grants or loans that earn forgiveness at eight per cent a year for the first 10 years, then two per cent a year for the final 10 years of the affordability period. The home must remain the principal and sole residence of the applicant for the entire 20-year period in order to earn complete forgiveness of the loan.

Applications are available at municipal offices and town halls in the Rainy River District or from the Métis Nation of Ontario Housing Branch, a third-party service provider who administers the program on RRDSSAB’s behalf (applicants do not need to be Métis). For further information, applicants should call 1-800-891-5882 (toll-free), or check www.rrdssab.on.ca.

Under the Northern Housing component of the Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program, funding is used to rehabilitate, renovate or replace substandard housing which will help to preserve affordable housing for low-income households in Northern Ontario. Funds may also be available to encourage affordable rental housing development where appropriate.

The new Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program Agreement comprises a commitment of $301 million from each of the two senior levels of government. In total, the federal, provincial and municipal governments will invest at least $734 million in the program, which will provide affordable housing for 20,000 households in Ontario.

Media contacts:

For more information visit: 

http://www.mah.gov.on.ca

www.rrdssab.on.ca

Article source: http://www.cmhc.ca/en/corp/nero/nere/2007/2007-08-23-0930.cfm

SCARBOROUGH, August 27, 2007 — Canada’s New Government, the Government of Ontario, Home Ownership Alternatives Non-Profit Corporation and the non-profit development company Options for Homes celebrated the successful completion of an affordable homeownership pilot project that creates 382 affordable condominium units for sale to low-to-moderate income households in need of affordable housing.

Colin Carrie, Member of Parliament for Oshawa, on behalf of the Honourable Monte Solberg, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development; Brad Duguid MPP for Scarborough Centre and Parliamentary Assistant to the Honourable John Gerretsen, Ontario Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing; and Mary Anne Chambers, Minister of Children and Youth Services and MPP for Scarborough – East attended the event.

“Canada’s New Government is committed to supporting quality and affordable housing for low income families,” said MP Carrie. “Through partnerships with the province and the private sector our government is making an important difference in the lives of families here in Scarborough and across Ontario, who are working towards building a safer, stronger and better future for themselves.”

“I am happy to be here as we welcome the newest residents of Scarborough and congratulate them on the purchase of their new homes,” said MPP Chambers. “The great success of this pilot program demonstrates the commitment of the three levels of government to work together with organizations such as Home Ownership Alternatives and Options for Homes to provide affordable housing opportunities for low-to-moderate income residents of Ontario.”

The Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario entered a partnership with Home Ownership Alternatives and Options for Homes in November 2004, providing $2.3 million in funding under the pilot phase of the Homeownership component of the Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program. The program’s objective was to ease demand for rental housing by assisting rental households with low-to-moderate incomes to purchase newly-built affordable homes in three projects located in Scarborough, Pickering and Markham.

Under the partnership agreement, Home Ownership Alternatives agreed to help 382 purchasers by providing an average of a $22,000 contribution to their down payments. In addition, $2.3 million of government funds were contributed to provide an additional $25,470 contribution to the down payments of 90 units of the 382 purchasers to allow households with incomes of approximately $48,000 or less an opportunity to own their own home.

The first project completed under the pilot was Liberty at Discovery Place in Pickering, a 219-unit affordable homeownership project, with occupancy by homeowners in October 2005.

Attendees of today’s event celebrated the occupancy of the next 262 units, located at the Village of Guildwood, in Scarborough. The final 140 units of Old Kennedy Village in Markham will be fully occupied by early October of this year, for a total of 621 units. All were offered at a low end market price of $20,000 to $50,000 below comparable units within the same municipalities. Because of this, many people of low-to-moderate incomes have been able to afford homes in these high-demand communities.

“What excites me the most is that this is not a handout; it is helping people to help themselves. All of the purchasers provided their own down payments, which were combined with government funds and Home Ownership Alternatives assistance to make their new homes more affordable” said Chief Executive Officer, Richard Owen, of Home Ownership Alternatives.

Options for Homes and Home Ownership Alternatives strive to make homeownership available in the Greater Toronto Area and across Ontario by providing affordable, quality housing. As part of the purchasing requirement, eligible families will require a down payment of only zero to five per cent of the purchase price of the condominiums, which will be priced at or lower than the market price of similar condominiums.

“I have been participating in government pilot projects and government programs for 28 years and I have never seen one that was announced, completed and fully occupied within 3 years. Non profit delivered affordable home ownership offers untold opportunities for addressing the housing needs of Ontarians,” said President of Options for Homes Mike Labbé.

The new Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program Agreement comprises a commitment of $301 million from each of the two senior levels of government. In total, the federal, provincial and municipal governments will invest at least $734 million in the program, which will provide affordable housing for 20,000 households in Ontario.

For more information, please contact:

For more information visit :

http://www.mah.gov.on.ca
http://www.optionsforhomes.ca

See related speech

Backgrounder

The Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program — Home Ownership Component Pilot

In November 2004, the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario announced an agreement with Home Ownership Alternatives, a trust and non-profit corporation, to provide up to $2.3 million in funding to build 382 affordable condominium units in three developments located in Scarborough, Pickering, and Markham for sale to low-to-moderate income families in need of affordable housing.

The program’s objective is to ease demand for rental housing by assisting rental households to purchase newly-built affordable homes. Project requirements include:

• a selling price below the average-market price for a given area, and not higher than what is affordable to households with low-to-moderate incomes;
• if the home is sold within a 10-year period, the full government funding must be repaid; and,
• eligible projects will be located in neighbourhood revitalization areas.

Home Ownership Alternatives

Home Ownership Alternatives is a non-profit corporation dedicated to creating ownership housing for low-to-moderate income households that contributes to healthy and economically diverse communities.

Under a formal Declaration of Trust, all of its assets are held in trust to assist in the development of affordable ownership housing.

Home Ownership Alternatives lends funds to co-ops to assist them with feasibility studies and land acquisition, and financial guarantees needed to support construction financing and new home warranties.

Home Ownership Alternatives also provides down payment assistance in the form of second mortgages to the co-op members purchasing the new homes. No payments of principal or interest are required until the home is resold, although the homeowner may choose to pay it out at any time. When the homeowner no longer needs assistance (by sale or by voluntary payout) the homeowner then pays out the mortgage plus a proportionate share of the increase in the value of the home. Home Ownership Alternatives then uses these funds to makes new loans to create more affordable housing for new purchasers. In this way, the corporation preserves and increases its revolving fund of equity available to support its goal of creating affordable ownership housing.

During its nine years of operation, Home Ownership Alternatives has assisted the creation of 1,400 completed and sold homes, and is providing financial support for another 800 homes currently under development.

Options for Homes

Options for Homes was launched in 1992 by Mike Labbé, and structured to bring low-to-moderate income people into the condominium market. The corporation has developed and built six Toronto area housing communities providing home ownership opportunities for families and individuals with gross annual incomes as low as $40,000. Partnering with Deltera Construction Ltd. and Home Ownership Alternatives, Options for Homes has a long-standing tradition of quality and cost-effectiveness in the Greater Toronto Area. Options for Homes is a private, non-profit corporation that finds residential land and designs, develops, and pre-sells low-priced condominiums to individuals of all income levels.

The Options for Homes model increases affordability by:

• charging buyers only the cost of building the unit;
• purchasing residential land that is less expensive than land used for private condo developments;
• reducing advertising costs; and,
• eliminating amenities, model suites and sales commissions.

Buyers are offered a payment-free second “regular” mortgage representing the difference between the cost of building the home and the home’s market value.

Moderate and low-income people are offered additional payment-free financing in the form of an additional “deferred” mortgage that provides further help with the down payment.

These mortgages are to be repaid when the home is sold, or at any time the owner can afford to do so.

Home Ownership Alternatives and Options for Homes use any proceeds from regular and deferred second mortgage to start other Options for Homes affordable housing developments.

How It Works

Option for Homes coordinates the development of condominiums and town homes. Initial purchasers of condominiums and town homes form a Co-operative Housing Corporation to serve as the developer of the buildings, retaining Options as their development consultant for a fee for its services that are included in the purchase price of the homes.

For example:

• Condo unit costs Options $100,000 to build while market value is $110,000
• Options sells for $100,000
• The difference of $10,000 becomes the second mortgage. The down payment is based on the market value. So a minimum 5 per cent down based on the market value of $110,000 is $5,500
• The down payment is taken off the cost price ($100,000) leaving the buyer with a mortgage of $94,500, $10,000 less than they would have had to pay at full market price
• As the condos appreciate, so does the second mortgage, an amount buyers must repay only if they rent or resell. This money then goes into an equity pool that is used to develop similar projects.

To buy an Options for Homes condominium, individuals:

• form a co-operative;
• retain Options for Homes to coordinate the development;
• obtain part of the financing as a bank mortgage; and,
• access the remainder of the financing from Home Ownership Alternatives

Projects Completed

Old Kennedy Village, Markham

Located at 90 Old Kennedy Road in Markham, this project of 140 units is within blocks of the Milliken GO Station, the Pacific Mall, grocery stores, schools and banks. Units started at $169,546, and range from 660 to 1,335 square feet.

The Village at Guildwood,  Scarborough

This new community consisting of 262 units in an apartment building at the corner of Eglinton Avenue East and Kingston Road, on the edge of the Guildwood area of Scarborough. Units range in size from 435 to 1,300 square feet and prices started at $91,400.

Liberty Place, Pickering

Located at 1200 The Esplanade North in Pickering, this 219-unit condominium is occupied. Highway 401 and GO Transit are just minutes away. Suites range in size from 540 sq. ft. up to 1,202 sq. ft., and each comes with a dishwasher and individual climate control. Units started at $120,790. 

Special guests gather together in front of the Village at Guildwood, a new affordable homeownership project in Scarborough, for the ribbon-cutting event celebrating the official opening.
Photo (from left to right): Member of Parliament for Oshawa, Colin Carrie; Member of Provincial Parliament for Scarborough-East and Minister of Children and Youth Services, Mary Ann Chambers; President of Home Ownership Alternatives Corporation, Richard Owen;  Member of Provincial Parliament for Scarborough Centre, Brad Duguid;  President of Options for Homes, Mike Labbé.

Article source: http://www.cmhc.ca/en/corp/nero/nere/2007/2007-08-27-1400.cfm

HAMILTON, August 29, 2007 — Canada’s New Government, the Government of Ontario and the City of Hamilton held a ribbon-cutting ceremony today to mark the official opening of St. Elizabeth Home Society, an affordable housing project that provides rental units for lower-income seniors under the Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program.

Gary Goodyear, Member of Parliament for Cambridge, on behalf of the Honourable Monte Solberg, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development; Judy Marsales, Member of Provincial Parliament for Hamilton West, on behalf of the Honourable John Gerretsen, Ontario’s Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing; and Ward 1 Councillor Brian McHattie attended today’s ceremony.

“Canada’s New Government is committed to providing real housing solutions for seniors, so that they can continue to live in their communities and be close to family and friends,” said MP Goodyear. “Seniors in Hamilton now have more access to quality, affordable housing to meet their specific needs.”

“Access to safe and affordable shelter is crucial to seniors and others in this province,” said MPP Marsales. “That’s why the McGuinty government is proud to support the St. Elizabeth Home Society affordable housing project which will provide Hamilton seniors the opportunity to live with dignity and independence in their own community.”

The $1.1 million project, including $702,000 from the Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program, will provide 26 apartments at 307 John Street South in the City of Hamilton. The project is sponsored by St. Elizabeth Home Society, and the units will be occupied by lower-income seniors.

Federal and provincial funding was complemented by more than $312,000 in municipal financial incentives.

“The St. Elizabeth project is an excellent example of the City partnering with our federal and provincial governments and the private sector to provide affordable housing so that seniors are able to remain independent in our community,” said Councillor McHattie. “Multi-sector partnerships for developments like the one we celebrate today are keys to ensuring that everyone has a home.”

“As a result of the Affordable Housing Program, we were able to expand this John Street South site to accommodate more seniors in our community,” said Robert Wappel, General Counsel for St. Elizabeth Home Society. “This project speaks to what can be accomplished when community organizations and the various levels of government work together to ensure our citizens have safe and affordable places to live.” 

In Hamilton, the Government of Canada, through the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), has contributed $9.68 million through the Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program.

The new Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program Agreement comprises a commitment of $301 million from each of the two senior levels of government. In total, the federal, provincial and municipal governments will invest at least $734 million in the program, which will provide affordable housing for 20,000 households in Ontario.

Media Contacts:

For more information, please visit:

http://www.mah.gov.on.ca
http://www.hamilton.ca

See related speech

Article source: http://www.cmhc.ca/en/corp/nero/nere/2007/2007-08-29-1130.cfm

TREB President’s Column as it appears every Friday in the Toronto Sun’s Resale Homes and Condos section.

August 17, 2012 — Resale housing activity in the Greater Toronto Area continued at a moderate pace in July, with 7,570 homes changing hands.  This represents a 1.5 per cent decrease from the 7,683 sales that took place in July 2011.

In Toronto 2,721 transactions took place last month compared to 2,995 sales a year ago, a drop of nine per cent, which research suggests can be attributed to the cost of the City of Toronto’s land transfer tax.

Meanwhile sales in the 905 Region improved compared to a year ago.  Last month 4,849 homes changed hands in the 905 Region, a three per cent climb from the 4,688 sales that took place in that area in July 2011.

Despite more moderate sales in the City of Toronto, the pace of activity remained on track throughout the GTA as compared to a year ago, which was reflected in the amount of time homes were available for sale. The average number of days on market was 26 last month, consistent with last July.

Prices showed continued strength last month, with the average cost of a GTA home increasing four per cent compared to a year ago, to $476,947. The City of Toronto, with an average price of $500,934 showed a slightly stronger year-over-year increase of five per cent compared to 3.5 per cent in the 905 Region, where the average price was $463,488.

Price gains were strongest for detached homes in the City of Toronto in July, at eight per cent. Semi-detached and town homes in Toronto followed with gains of five and three per cent respectively. In the 905 Region appreciation by housing type was more balanced with detached, semi-detached and town homes all showing five per cent price increases. Throughout the GTA condo prices stayed the course compared to a year ago, declining one per cent in Toronto and increasing by one per cent in the 905 Region.

At 13,888 the number of new listings was nearly 12 per cent greater than July 2011. The improved supply of available homes in recent months has eased upward pressure on prices as anticipated.

News on the employment front was neutral in July, as the Toronto unemployment rate remained largely unchanged from the previous month, improving 0.1 of a percentage point to 8.5 per cent.

While interest rates have also remained stable, with five year fixed mortgage rates of approximately three per cent,  we may see an interest rate hike within the next year.

Bank of Canada Governor Mark Carney commented recently that since Canada’s economy has almost returned to full capacity, it may soon be time to withdraw some monetary policy stimulus.

Since a number of variables such as these should factor into the timing of your next move, it’s wise to get informed, objective from advice from a Greater Toronto REALTOR® when weighing your options.

For more information on buying, selling or leasing property throughout the GTA, be sure to visit www.TorontoRealEstateBoard.com

Ann Hannah is President of the Toronto Real Estate Board,
a professional association that represents 34,000 REALTORS®
in the Greater Toronto Area.

Follow TREB on www.twitter.com/TREBhome, www.Facebook.com/TorontoRealEstateBoard and www.youtube.com/TREBChannel

Article source: http://www.torontorealestateboard.com/market_news/president_columns/pres_sun_col/index.htm

WEST LORNE, August 29, 2007 — Canada’s New Government, the Government of Ontario and the Municipality of West Elgin held a sod-turning ceremony today to mark the official start of the construction of Heritage House, which will provide 16 new units of supportive affordable housing for seniors and single persons.

Joe Preston, MP for Elgin – Middlesex – London, on behalf of the Honourable Monte Solberg, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development; Elgin – Middlesex – London MPP Steve Peters, on behalf of Municipal Affairs and Housing Minister John Gerretsen; and Graham Warwick, Mayor of West Elgin, participated in today’s ceremonies.

“Canada’s New Government is committed to increase the availability of affordable housing for those who need it the most,” said Mr. Preston. “This project will provide better access to quality, affordable homes for low-income individuals and seniors in West Lorne. “

“The McGuinty government firmly believes that every person in this province has the right to safe, healthy and affordable shelter,” said MPP Peters. “Heritage House is an excellent example of the positive impact that community organizations and government can have when they work together. It represents hope for a better future for the people who will call it home.”

The $2.2 million project, sponsored by West Lorne Heritage Homes Not For Profit Corporation, received more than $1.1 million from the Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program. It will provide 16 new apartments at 154 Munro Street in West Lorne.

The federal and provincial funding for the project is complemented by more than $622,000 in municipal financial incentives from the Municipality of West Elgin.

“The Municipality of West Elgin is making a significant investment but we need to provide housing alternatives for our seniors or they will be forced to move to other communities,” said Mayor Graham Warwick. “Our seniors are vital to the community and deserve to be able to have the option of staying near family and friends in their retirement.”

“The idea for Heritage House came out of a need for quality affordable housing in West Lorne,” said Harry Mezenberg, Chair of West Lorne Heritage Homes. “We are very grateful to the federal, provincial, and local government for their assistance and very appreciative of all the generous donations from individuals, service clubs, churches, and corporations for helping make this happen.”

The new Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program Agreement comprises a commitment of $301 million from each of the two senior levels of government. In total, the federal, provincial and municipal governments will invest at least $734 million in the program, which will provide affordable housing for 20,000 households in Ontario.

Media inquiries:

For more information visit:

http://www.mah.gov.on.ca

See related speech

Article source: http://www.cmhc.ca/en/corp/nero/nere/2007/2007-08-29-1300.cfm

WELLAND, August 30, 2007 — Canada’s New Government, the Government of Ontario, Niagara Region, the City of Welland and Niagara Regional Housing held a ribbon-cutting ceremony today to mark the official opening of a new affordable housing development in Welland. The Dr. Peter Grant Haven of Hope, named in memory of a St. Catharines psychiatrist, provides 28 apartments at 176 – 178 King Street in Welland for single people who are in need of supportive housing.

Dean Allison, Member of Parliament for Niagara West – Glanbrook, on behalf of the Honourable Monte Solberg, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development; Jim Bradley, MPP for St. Catharines, on behalf of the Honourable John Gerretsen, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing; Councillor Brian Baty on behalf of Niagara Regional Chair Peter Partington; and Welland Mayor Damian Goulbourne attended the ceremony.

“Canada’s New Government is committed to providing housing solutions in Welland and in communities across Ontario,” said MP Allison. “The Dr. Peter Grant Haven of Hope will provide safe and supportive housing for those people in need, so they can begin to build a better, safer, and stronger future.”

“The Dr. Peter Grant Haven of Hope will provide a place to live independently and with dignity,” said Bradley. “The McGuinty government is committed to funding projects that help Niagara’s most vulnerable residents with their housing needs. By working with partners like Niagara Regional Housing and Gateway Residential and Community Support Services, we are investing in a brighter future for people in Welland.”

The $3.1 million project, including over $851,000 from the Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program (AHP), is sponsored by the Gateway Residential and Community Support Services of Niagara Inc.

“This new 28 apartment complex is a wonderful example of what can be accomplished when we work together,” said Mayor Goulbourne. “A special thank you to Gateway Residential Community Support Services for their continued efforts to provide members of our community with supportive housing; being able to live independently and be an active part of our community will surely enhance the quality of life of those that will reside here.”

“At Gateway we are thrilled to officially open twenty-eight new units of safe, secure and affordable rental housing,” said Gateway Executive Director John Osczypko. “By providing permanent housing and ongoing, flexible support services on-site, our residents are able to live independently and develop as vital members of the Welland community.”

The federal and provincial allocation will be complemented by more than $340,000 in municipal financial incentives.

The new Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program Agreement comprises a commitment of $301 million from each of the two senior levels of government. In total, the federal, provincial and municipal governments will invest at least $734 million in the program, which will provide affordable housing for 20,000 households in Ontario.

For further information please contact:

For more information visit : 

http://www.mah.gov.on.ca
http://www.regional.niagara.on.ca
http://www.welland.ca/

See related speech

From left to right: Mr. Dean Allison, MP for Niagara West-Glenbrook , Karen Murray member of the Niagara Regional Housing Board, Regional Councillor and Co-Chair of the public health and social services committee Brian Baty, Welland Mayor Damian Goulbourne and St. Catharines MPP Jim Bradley cut the ribbon at the Dr. Peter Grant Haven of Hope affordable-housing complex on King Street in Welland on Aug. 30. The complex now provides 28 affordable apartments to low-income and disabled persons.

Article source: http://www.cmhc.ca/en/corp/nero/nere/2007/2007-08-30-1030.cfm