GTA REALTORS® Build on the Dream of Home Ownership

Author: Toronto Real Estate Admin / Category: Toronto Realtor


 

 


GTA REALTORS® BUILD ON THE
DREAM OF HOME OWERSHIP

 

TORONTO,
March 30, 2012
Greater
Toronto REALTORS® will be joined by Ward
35 City of Toronto Councillor Michelle Berardinetti March 30th as they work
to make the dream of home ownership a reality for another local family.
 
Located in the Danforth Avenue and Victoria Park area, the home that Greater
Toronto REALTORS® will have a hand in constructing, marks the fifth title
sponsorship of eight Habitat for Humanity builds to which the Toronto Real
Estate Board has contributed in recent years.
 
“We’re very excited to be playing a key role in improving the quality
of life for another local family, not just through sponsorship but by volunteering
to take part in their home’s construction, and the fact that Councillor
Berardinetti is joining us will make this build all the more memorable.” said
TREB President Richard Silver.
 
The Habitat for Humanity community Greater Toronto REALTORS® are helping
to build includes eight homes, two of which have been completed as fully accessible
bungalow style homes, specifically designated to families with members who
have physically disabilities. The six that remain under construction are semi-detached
units scheduled to reach completion this summer.
 
 At that time they will become homes for low-income families currently
living in substandard housing. For their part, the families will be required
to contribute 500 volunteer hours to Habitat for Humanity Toronto and repay
a zero-down payment, interest free mortgage over an average of 25 years.
 
In recent years TREB also sponsored Habitat for Humanity homes in the Kingston
Road and Morningside Avenue area, Scarborough’s McLevin Woods and Etobicoke’s
Lakeshore Village. Habitat for Humanity Toronto has constructed more than 225
simple, decent and affordable homes with partner families throughout the city
and has set a goal to build 50 new homes each year by 2015.
 
“A study recently undertaken by the City of Toronto shows that families
who receive financing to support the purchase of affordable housing noted positive
changes with respect to personal privacy, physical health, personal safety
and even their children’s school performance,” said Silver. “Supporting
affordable housing initiatives like this one help build a better Toronto, which
benefits us all.”
 
Each year, Toronto Real Estate Board Members contribute to the overall quality
of life in the Greater Toronto Area by supporting shelter-related charities
through the REALTORS® Care Foundation. Last year it offered grants totaling
more than $178,000 to 35 different organizations throughout the GTA.
 
Councillor Berardinetti, who is also a member of the City’s Affordable
Housing Committee, is scheduled to join Greater Toronto REALTORS® at the
Habitat for Humanity build between 1pm and 4pm, March 30, 2012.

 

 

 

 

 

 
 

 

 

 
 
 
 

 

 

 
 

For information about Buyer Representation Agreements
(BRA) visit www.BRAFirst.ca

For Media/Public Inquiries: Mary Gallagher, Senior
Manager Media Relations.

Toronto
Real Estate Board 1400 Don Mills Road Toronto, ON M3B 3N1, Office: (416)
443-8158, Email:maryg@trebnet.com

 

 

Greater Toronto REALTORS are passionate about their work.
They adhere to a strict Code of Ethics and share a state-of-the-art Multiple
Listing Service. Serving over 34,000 Members in the Greater Toronto Area,
the Toronto Real Estate Board is Canadas largest real estate board. Greater
Toronto Area open house listings are available on www.TorontoRealEstateBoard.com

 

 

Article source: http://www.torontorealestateboard.com/market_news/release_market_updates/news2012/nr_build_dream_home.htm

Launch of the Sunnyside Supportive Housing and Seniors Wellness Center Project

Author: Toronto Real Estate Admin / Category: News Bulletin

Waterloo

WATERLOO REGION, April 17, 2009 — The Government of Canada, the Government of Ontario, the Region of Waterloo and the Waterloo Wellington Local Health Integration Network (WWLHIN) celebrated the launch of the Sunnyside Supportive Housing and Seniors Wellness Centre project. The project will be the first of its kind in Waterloo Region — an affordable seniors housing complex, offering funded care and support services, coordinated by an on-site case manager.

The project was officially launched by Stephen Woodworth, Member of Parliament for Kitchener Centre on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development Canada and Minister responsible for the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation; the Honourable David Caplan, Ontario’s Minister of Health and Long-Term Care; the Honourable John Milloy, Ontario’s Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities and Member of Provincial Parliament for Kitchener Centre, on behalf of the Honourable Jim Watson, Ontario’s Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing; Waterloo Regional Chair Ken Seiling; and WWLHIN Board Chair Kathy Durst.

“The Government of Canada is committed to making affordable housing available in Ontario and across Canada for those who need it most,” said MP Stephen Woodworth. “Today’s launch gives hope to Kitchener seniors who need quality, affordable housing, and support services that meet their specific needs.”

“Our government is proud to support this innovative project that will enable seniors to live independently with access to quality care close to home,” said David Caplan, Minister of Health and Long-Term Care. “The Sunnyside Supportive Housing and Seniors Wellness Centre project reflects the goal of our province’s Aging at Home Strategy.”

When complete, the project will have 27 one-bedroom and three two-bedroom accessible apartments, including wheelchair accommodation and providing space for supportive services such as rehabilitation, fitness programs and educational sessions.

“This supportive housing project addresses a long-standing need in our community and I am proud of the strong support the McGuinty government has provided,” said John Milloy, MPP, Kitchener Centre. “Seniors deserve the ability to live independently for as long as possible and this project will allow them to do so.”

This $9.7 million Region of Waterloo initiative will receive capital funding of $2.1 million under the Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program. An annual operating subsidy of $663,000 will be provided by Ontario’s Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care through the Waterloo Wellington Local Health Integration Network under the Province’s Aging at Home Strategy. The K-W Seniors Day Program, which is contributing $102,300, will be expanded as part of the project. The Seniors Wellness Centre will also be funded by the Sunnyside Home Foundation, which is today launching its campaign to raise $500,000 for this initiative. The project should be ready for occupancy in early 2010.

“The Sunnyside Seniors Supportive Housing project addresses a critical need in our community,” said Regional Chair Ken Seiling. “Once complete, this housing development will enable many of our citizens to continue to live independently in our community while having easy, convenient access to the services and supports they need.”

“The combined vision of the Federal, Provincial, and Regional Governments, along with the WWLHIN, to work in partnership and create affordable supportive housing for our senior population demonstrates a willingness to address this gap in our community,” says Kathy Durst, Chair, WWLHIN Board of Directors. “Through our collective efforts, we will continue to develop high quality housing and services for our elderly LHIN residents enhancing their independence and opportunity for choice.”

The 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 have invested at least $734 million in the program, which will provide affordable housing for 20,000 households in Ontario.

Last fall, the Government of Canada committed more than $1.9 billion over the next five years to improve and build new affordable housing and to help the homeless. Canada’s Economic Action Plan builds on this with an additional one-time investment of more than $2 billion over two years in new and existing social housing and lending of up to $2 billion for housing-related infrastructure.

Media contacts:

For more information visit: 

www.ontario.ca/housing
www.health.gov.on.ca/
www.region.waterloo.on.ca

See related speech

Article source: http://www.cmhc.ca/en/corp/nero/nere/2009/2009-04-17-1500.cfm

Over $3.8 Million Boost for Affordable Housing in Fergus

Author: Toronto Real Estate Admin / Category: News Bulletin

FERGUS, April 24, 2009 — The Government of Canada, the Government of Ontario, and the County of Wellington today announced the start of construction of 55 new affordable housing units for individuals with special needs. The Gordon Street Apartments, sponsored by the County of Wellington, received more than $3.8 million in funding under the Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program towards this initiative.

The Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development Canada, and Minister Responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation; Liz Sandals, Member of Provincial Parliament for Guelph, on behalf of the Honourable Jim Watson, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing; and Joanne Ross-Zuj, Warden for the County of Wellington made the announcement today.

“The Government of Canada is committed to making affordable housing available in Ontario and across Canada for those who need it most,” said Minister Finley. “Through this investment, we are making an important difference in the lives of seniors, families and individuals in Fergus who are working towards building a stronger and better future for themselves.”

“Our government is committed to helping people who live on lower or fixed incomes stay in their home communities,” said MPP Sandals. “These units are going to make a significant difference in the lives of the people who call them home.”

“The County of Wellington is pleased to partner with the federal and provincial governments to construct 55 new Affordable Housing units in Centre Wellington,” said Ross-Zuj. “Adequate shelter is the foundation upon which healthy communities are built. The County of Wellington is committed to providing safe and affordable housing for lower-income seniors, families and individuals in need of assistance.”   

The 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 have invested at least $734 million in the program, which will provide affordable housing for up to 20,000 households in Ontario.

Last fall, the Government of Canada committed more than $1.9 billion over the next five years to improve and build new affordable housing and to help the homeless. Canada’s Economic Action Plan builds on this with an additional one-time investment of more than $2 billion over two years in new and existing social housing and lending of up to another $2 billion to municipalities for housing-related infrastructure.

For further information please contact:

Article source: http://www.cmhc.ca/en/corp/nero/nere/2009/2009-04-24-1400.cfm

Construction Set to Begin on the Reena Community Residence

Author: Toronto Real Estate Admin / Category: News Bulletin

VAUGHAN, April 30, 2009 — The Government of Canada, the Government of Ontario and the Region of York celebrated the start of construction of the Reena Community Residence, a development of 60 new affordable housing units in the City of Vaughan. This project received $4.2 million in funding through the Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program.

The Honourable Madeleine Meilleur, Minister of Community and Social Services, on behalf of the Honourable Jim Watson, Ontario’s Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing attended the official groundbreaking ceremony. Also participating in today’s announcement were York Regional Chairman and CEO Bill Fisch and officials from Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) and Reena.

“The Government of Canada is committed to making affordable housing available in Ontario and across Canada for those who need it most,” said the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development and Minister responsible for CMHC. “The creation of these new units here in Vaughan will provide low-income seniors and people with special needs access to quality, affordable housing and the services that meet their specific needs, while remaining close to their families and friends in the community.”

“Access to safe, affordable housing is vitally important to the economic and social well-being of Ontario’s communities,” said Minister Meilleur. “This investment will make a significant difference in the lives of people, especially those with disabilities, who will call Reena Community Residence home.”

Today’s announcement was made at the future site of the Reena Community Residence, at 9600 Bathurst Avenue in the City of Vaughan. The $23-million project, which includes $4.2 million from the Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program and $2.6 million from the Ministry of Community and Social Services, is sponsored by Reena, an organization committed to investing in a better quality of life for people with developmental disabilities.

Federal and provincial allocations to the project are to be complemented by more than $3.6 million in municipal financial incentives.

“When completed, this residence will offer a full spectrum of needed supports that will enhance the lives of the people who live here, their families and our community,” said York Region Chairman and CEO Bill Fisch. “The Regional Municipality of York is proud to be a partner in this project.”

The Reena Community Residence is situated on the Joseph and Wolf Lebovic Jewish Community Campus. The campus is a project of UJA Federation of Greater Toronto’s Tomorrow campaign, which is building three centers of Jewish life in the GTA. In addition to educational facilities, the campus will be home to social services and recreational centres for all GTA residents.

“The Reena Community Residence at the Joseph and Wolf Lebovic Jewish Campus will give Reena an opportunity to create a model of support which is unique,” said Sandy Keshen, President and CEO of Reena. “In partnership with a number of other service providers, it will set a bench mark for the future — demonstrating that services can be provided in an integrated setting to a population with diverse needs.”

The Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program 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 up to 20,000 households in Ontario.

Last fall, the Government of Canada committed more than $1.9 billion over the next five years to improve and build new affordable housing and to help the homeless. Canada’s Economic Action Plan builds on this with an additional one-time investment of more than $2 billion over two years in new and existing social housing and lending of up to another $2 billion to municipalities for housing-related infrastructure.

Media Inquiries:

For more information visit:
www.ontario.ca/housing
www.york.ca
www.reena.org

Article source: http://www.cmhc.ca/en/corp/nero/nere/2009/2009-04-30-1330.cfm

Affordable Housing Project Begins Construction

Author: Toronto Real Estate Admin / Category: News Bulletin

Niagara-Region

NIAGARA FALLS, April 24, 2009 The Government of Canada, the Government of Ontario, Niagara Region, the City of Niagara Falls and Niagara Regional Housing celebrated the start of construction of a project that will create 40 new units of affordable housing in Niagara Falls. The project is sponsored by Bethlehem Projects of Niagara and receives $2.8 million in funding under the Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program.

The Honourable Rob Nicholson, P.C., Q.C.,Member of Parliament for Niagara Falls, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development Canada and Minister Responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation; Kim Craitor, MPP for Niagara Falls, on behalf of the Honourable Jim Watson, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing; Niagara Regional Chairman Peter Partington; Niagara Falls Mayor Ted Salci; and Michael Gruyich, Honourary Campaign Chair attended the ceremony.

“The Government of Canada is committed to making affordable housing available in Ontario and across Canada for those who need it most,” said Minister Nicholson. “The creation of these units here in Niagara Falls will provide individuals, families and persons with disabilities access to safe, affordable and quality housing, helping them to build a stronger future.”

“The McGuinty government is committed to working with our partners to build more affordable housing for people in need,” said Kim Craitor, MPP for Niagara Falls. “Bethlehem Projects of Niagara has been an enthusiastic partner in the Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program. We look forward to seeing the completion of this project, which will greatly benefit the entire Niagara Falls community.”

Niagara Region Chair Peter Partington expressed Regional Council’s support for the future development. “Bethlehem Projects has become a valuable community partner across Niagara. In assisting our vulnerable population with affordable housing and support services, they contribute a great deal to the community through the lives that they improve. I am proud to support this development in Niagara Falls, as it offers a great opportunity to be another  extraordinary example of new affordable housing from Bethlehem Projects”

Niagara Falls Mayor Salci noted his city’s interest in the success of the initiative, “This support for lower and moderate income families in Niagara Falls is vital. Now that the building of Bethlehem Place has begun, people in our community who need an affordable place to live will have more opportunities to help ease the burden of supporting their families during challenging times through access to sustainable housing.”

This supportive, affordable apartment building will provide permanent safe housing for singles and families of low to moderate income. Universal design will be used throughout the building to enable aging in place and four units will be modified for people with physical disabilities.

“With over 1500 households waiting for affordable housing in Niagara Falls the need for this housing is critical”, said Michael Gruyich. “Having a decent, affordable place to live is a basic human right and I am pleased to announce that 66% of the $500,000 community investment required to ensure the success of this project has been raised. We invite others to help us meet our goal.”

It is expected that the building will be ready for occupancy in Spring 2010.

The $5.1 million project, including $2.8 million from the Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program, will be complemented by more than $57,000 in municipal financial incentives.

The 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 have invested at least $734 million in the program, which will provide affordable housing for 20,000 households in Ontario.

Last fall, the Government of Canada committed more than $1.9 billion over the next five years to improve and build new affordable housing and to help the homeless. Canada’s Economic Action Plan builds on this with an additional one-time investment of more than $2 billion over two years in new and existing social housing and lending of up to another $2 billion to municipalities for housing-related infrastructure.

For further information please contact:

For more information visit: http://www.mah.gov.on.ca.

Article source: http://www.cmhc.ca/en/corp/nero/nere/2009/2009-04-24-1200.cfm

Celebration Marks Completion of Renovations to YWCA

Author: Toronto Real Estate Admin / Category: News Bulletin

ST. THOMAS, May 1, 2009 — A ceremony was held today to celebrate the completion of renovations to the 79-year old YWCA St. Thomas – Elgin women’s residence.

The YWCA St. Thomas – Elgin has been providing much-needed services to women in Elgin County since 1902. It is a not-for-profit provider of assistance programs, emergency, short-term and long-term housing for women in need.

The federal government provided $231,288 through Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s (CMHC) Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program (RRAP) to renovate and upgrade the building. This program provides financial assistance to bring properties for lower-income households up to minimum standards of health and safety.

“The Government of Canada is committed to making affordable housing available in Ontario and across Canada for those who need it most,” said MP Joe Preston, on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development Canada and Minister Responsible for CMHC. “These renovations will provide women with access to safe housing and the support they need to help them start a new page in their lives.”

The YWCA St. Thomas – Elgin used the federal funding to make major repairs to the walls, floors, fire escape, kitchen and bathrooms and also to upgrade the interior, windows and electrical systems of the three-storey, 20 bed-unit building. 

“For over 30 years our priority has been to provide emergency, short-term and long- term housing to women in need,” said Marla Champion, Executive Director, YWCA St. Thomas – Elgin. “This project has also helped us to provide a much-needed lift to both a historical building and women’s spirits.”

Last fall, the Government of Canada committed more than $1.9 billion over the next five years to improve and build new affordable housing and to help the homeless. Canada’s Economic Action Plan builds on this with an additional one-time investment of more than $2 billion over two years to build new and existing social housing, and lending up to another $2 billion to municipalities for housing-related infrastructure.

As Canada’s national housing agency, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) draws on over 60 years of experience to help Canadians access a variety of quality, environmentally sustainable, and affordable homes — homes that will continue to create vibrant and healthy communities and cities across the country. For more information, call 1-800-668-2642.

Media inquiries:

Nicole Burgers
Communications Consultant
Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation
Tel.: 416-250-2760

Michelle Bakos
Press Secretary
Office of Minister Finley
Tel.: 819-994-2482

See related speech

Article source: http://www.cmhc.ca/en/corp/nero/nere/2009/2009-05-01-1300.cfm

Construction Begins on Affordable Housing Projects in East Ferris

Author: Toronto Real Estate Admin / Category: News Bulletin

EAST FERRIS, May 9, 2009 —The Government of Canada, the Government of Ontario, and the District of Nipissing Social Services Administration Board celebrated today the start of construction for 20 new affordable rental units for low-income senior citizens in two projects in the Township of East Ferris. The projects received $400,000 in funding through the Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program.

The Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development Canada, and Minister responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation; Monique Smith, MPP for Nipissing, on behalf of the Honourable Jim Watson, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing; and George Jupp, Chair of the District of Nipissing Social Services Administration Board, made the announcement today.

“The Government of Canada is committed to making affordable housing available in Ontario and across Canada for those who need it most,” said Minister Finley. “The creation of these new rental units here in East Ferris will provide seniors with access to suitable, affordable housing that meets their specific needs.”

“There is a great need for affordable housing in our region,” said MPP Smith. “I am delighted that senior citizens in the Township of East Ferris will now have access to quality, affordable housing, while remaining close to their families and friends in the community.”

The $3.2 million Seniors Villa of East Ferris includes the 10-unit Corbeil Project and the 10-unit Astorville Project, providing affordable housing for low-income senior citizens.

The projects will receive annual affordability payments of $360,000 provided by the District of Nipissing Social Services Administration Board.  Funding for the projects is complemented by municipal development fee waivers.

“The District of Nipissing Social Services Administration Board is pleased to support the development of housing for seniors in East Ferris,” said Chair Jupp. “It is a Board priority to see that the housing needs of rural citizens are addressed.”

The Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program 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.

Last fall, the Government of Canada committed more than $1.9 billion over the next five years to improve and build new affordable housing and to help the homeless. Canada’s Economic Action Plan builds on this with an additional one-time investment of more than $2 billion over two years in new and existing social housing and lending of up to another $2 billion to municipalities for housing-related infrastructure.

Media contacts:

For more information visit:  www.ontario.ca/housing

Article source: http://www.cmhc.ca/en/corp/nero/nere/2009/2009-05-09-1400.cfm

Chatham – Kent Celebrates New Affordable Housing

Author: Toronto Real Estate Admin / Category: News Bulletin

CHATHAM – KENT, May 21, 2009 — The Government of Canada, the Government of Ontario, and the Municipality of Chatham-Kent today celebrated the opening of 16 new affordable rental units in two projects. These projects are supported by over $1 million in funding through the Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program.

Dave Van Kesteren Member of Parliament for Chatham – Kent – Essex, on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development Canada, and Minister Responsible for the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation; Pat Hoy, Member of Provincial Parliament for Chatham – Kent – Essex, on behalf of the Honourable Jim Watson, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing; Chatham – Kent Councillor Bill Weaver; and affordable housing sponsors Nasr Nasr, from Remmcor Ltd., and Patricia Arango, from Chatham – Kent Women’s Centre Inc., attended the ceremony.

“The Government of Canada is committed to making affordable housing available in Ontario and across Canada for those who need it most,” said MP Van Kesteren. “With the opening of these projects, individuals and families will now have access to safe and supportive housing that meets their specific needs.”

“I want to extend thanks and congratulations to the developers and community groups who are making it possible to celebrate progress on our housing initiatives,” said MPP Hoy. “They are providing safe, economical and beautiful housing within the community for low income families and individuals.”

Today’s announcement recognizes two housing projects in Chatham – Kent, totaling over $1 million in capital costs:

  • 12 affordable housing units in a 14-unit complex, sponsored by Remcor Ltd., received $840,000 under the Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program. The units will be occupied by lower-income individuals, including persons with disabilities.
  • 4 affordable housing units in a 5-unit project, sponsored by the Chatham-Kent Women’s Centre Inc., received $240,000 under the Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program. The units will be occupied by families and individuals with special needs.

The federal and provincial allocations to the projects were complemented by over $119,000 in municipal financial incentives.

“The Municipality of Chatham – Kent is committed to providing safe, affordable housing options for residents,” said Chatham – Kent Councillor Bill Weaver. “Projects such as these are made successful by all three levels of government working very closely together.”

The Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program 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 up to 20,000 households in Ontario.

Last fall, the Government of Canada committed more than $1.9 billion over the next five years to improve and build new affordable housing and to help the homeless. Canada’s Economic Action Plan builds on this with an additional one-time investment of more than $2 billion over two years to build new and existing social housing, and lending up to another $2 billion to municipalities for housing-related infrastructure.

For further information please contact:

See related speech

Article source: http://www.cmhc.ca/en/corp/nero/nere/2009/2009-05-21-1000.cfm

President’s Toronto SUN Column: Fighting For Your Right To Privacy

Author: Toronto Real Estate Admin / Category: Toronto Realtor

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

March 16, 2012 — As you may have heard, the Competition Bureau is taking action that would force the Toronto Real Estate Board to abandon the safeguards in the MLS® System and make personal information freely available on the Internet, such as personal financial information including mortgage details and much more.

Some information on MLS® is publicly available through REALTOR.ca. However, TREB safeguards private and personal information. REALTORS® have always been guided by an obligation to protect consumers’ personal information.

That’s why TREB and REALTOR® Members are fighting for the privacy rights of consumers! We’ve launched a campaign to stand up for GTA consumers to protect their privacy.

TREB understands that the business environment is changing. In response, TREB developed a VOW service to allow REALTORS® to offer consumers a secure password-protected website displaying MLS® listing data, with the benefit of a REALTOR® Member’s knowledge and accountability, without compromising MLS® accuracy or consumers’ privacy rights.

TREB recently commissioned a poll of Ontarians by Angus Reid Critical Vision to see what Ontarians think about abandoning the privacy safeguards of MLS®. I’d like to share the results with you.

Not surprisingly, Ontarians are concerned.

  • 75% of Ontarians believe that personal information such as name and final sale price should be kept confidential by REALTOR® professionals. Commissioner Aitken wants to release this information.
  • 70% of homeowners do not want their personal contact information released to the public. Commissioner Aitken wants to release this information.
  • 67% of Ontarians oppose any measure to make personal contact information such as name and address available to others who are not subject to a professional code of conduct. Commissioner Aitken wants to release this information.

TREB has launched a new website to draw attention and clarify for consumers as to what could happen if Commissioner Aitken gets her way.
To learn more, become involved, and stay informed on this issue visit www.ProtectYourPrivacy.ca
Throughout the campaign, leading up to the Competition Tribunal proceedings this fall, TREB will be updating the consumer on a regular basis, so check back with the website for up-to-date information.

The stakes are high; Ontarians have overwhelming said they want their privacy protected. TREB has always strongly believed that REALTORS® have an obligation to protect consumers’ personal information. That’s why we’re fighting the Competition Bureau.

If Commissioner Aitken gets her way, Ontarians won’t. Privacy matters. That’s why TREB is standing up for GTA consumers.

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

Shelter of Hope at Angela’s Place

Author: Toronto Real Estate Admin / Category: News Bulletin

HAMILTON, May 22, 2009 — The Good Shepherd Centre celebrated the opening of Angela’s Place, a 15-unit housing complex for youth who are victims of violence, including teen mothers and their children in the Hamilton region. This shelter will also provide support services to help youth develop new skills in the community, and turn a new page in their lives.

David Sweet, Member of Parliament for Ancaster – Dundas – Flamborough – Westdale, on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development Canada, and Minister Responsible for the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, and Brother Richard MacPhee, Executive Director, Good Shepherd Centre, attended the ceremony.

“The Government of Canada is committed to making affordable housing available in Ontario and across Canada to those who need it most,” said MP David Sweet. “With the opening of this project,youth,women and children in Hamilton can access safe and suitable housing, and build a stronger future for themselves.”

The Government of Canada, through CMHC’s Shelter Enhancement Program, provided almost $236,000 to the Good Shepherd Centre for the total project renovation costs.

Since 1989, the Good Shepherd support programs have guided youth to break the cycle of poverty. Angela’s Place will house 14 youth, mothers and their children, for up to two years.

“Supporting these young families now will prevent the untold physical, emotional and spiritual hardship that poverty brings,” said Brother Richard MacPhee, Executive Director, Good Shepherd Centre. ”By lifting both mom and child from poverty, we will change two generations of young people.”

Good Shepherd is a non-profit, charitable organization that is dedicated to serving troubled youth, abused women and children, mentally and physically challenged individuals and the homeless. Good Shepherd programs have helped thousands of people every year by providing food, shelter and rehabilitation programs that offer guidance and hope.

CMHC’s Shelter Enhancement Program assists in repairing, rehabilitating and improving existing shelters for women and their children, youth or men who are victims of family violence, and provides financial assistance for the acquisition or construction of new shelters and second-stage housing where needed. 

Last fall, the Government of Canada committed more than $1.9 billion over the next five years to improve and build new affordable housing and to help the homeless. Canada’s Economic Action Plan builds on this with an additional one-time investment of more than $2 billion over two years in new and existing social housing and lending of up to another $2 billion to municipalities for housing-related infrastructure.

Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation 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 and making vibrant and sustainable communities and cities a reality across the country.

For further information, please contact:

Or visit:  www.goodshepherdcentres.ca

Article source: http://www.cmhc.ca/en/corp/nero/nere/2009/2009-05-22-1100.cfm