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Immigration & Housing Supply Part 1 of 2 - Navigating Canada's Housing Crisis



Houses in a row with green lawns right infront.

Part 1: Navigating Canada's Housing Crisis Amidst Soaring Immigration Levels 

 

Amidst the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cities that define Canada, a pressing issue is taking center stage: the housing crisis.  As the demand for housing units’ surges, the nation finds itself grappling with an alarming shortfall in affordable accommodations.  A recent report by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) has underscored the urgency of this situation, revealing that by 2030, a staggering 22 million additional housing units will be required to ensure housing affordability for all Canadians.  This housing shortage aligns with a period of record-breaking immigration levels in Canada, igniting conversations about the intricate relationship between immigration and housing availability. 

 

Addressing the Numbers: Demand vs. Supply 

 

The backdrop of this crisis is marked by a striking disparity between demand and supply.  Despite welcoming over 437,180 newcomers in 2022, the national housing plan fell short by an estimated 25,000 to 30,000 units.  Over the past year, 180,000 individuals migrated to British Columbia, a figure roughly comparable to the combined population of both the City and District of Langley, while nearly 40,000 fresh housing units were finalized within the same period.  This gap between demand and supply has given rise to mounting housing costs and the growing challenge of affordability. 

 

The Affordability Conundrum 

 

At the core of this crisis lies the critical issue of affordability.  In July 2023, the average home price in Canada soared by 6.3% to reach $668,754, pushing homeownership beyond the reach of many.  This concern is even more pronounced in provinces like Ontario and British Columbia, which tend to attract a significant number of newcomers.  In these regions, average home prices have skyrocketed to $856,269 and $966,181, respectively. 

 

Conclusion: The Urgent Quest for Equilibrium 

 

The convergence of escalating demand for housing and Canada's record-setting immigration levels has created a complex puzzle that demands a comprehensive solution.  As we delve deeper into this multifaceted issue, the interconnected nature of housing availability and immigration becomes ever more evident.  Stay tuned for Part 2, where we will explore the nuanced dynamics surrounding immigrants and the housing dilemma, delve into the government's immigration strategy, and assess the critical need to strike a delicate balance between these intertwining challenges.

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Malahat Valuation Group specializes in business valuation and real estate appraisals to owners of privately owned companies and their professional advisors.


When owners need to leverage, sell or reorganize their assets, we answer the age-old question, "What is it worth?".


We provide our clients and their advisors peace of mind by preparing professional valuations that stand up to scrutiny from lenders, the Courts, and the Canada Revenue Agency.

 

Malahat Valuation Group Inc.

(250) 929-2929







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