In a country with some of the world’s most expensive real estate, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government wants housing to become more affordable.
In a country with some of the world’s most expensive real estate, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government wants housing to become more affordable.
Selfishly want Canada to road test some ridiculous tax for residential properties that you own but don’t personally reside in. 50% progressive increase in property taxes for every residential property beyond the one you live in or something.
I could see something like that working. I think it works pretty well for most since two adults could own two homes (one each) so most Canadians wouldn’t be affected, so it would get broad support, but those with large real estate portfolios pay a lot more.
I think maybe BC’s model would work better, just scaled up much more dramatically. Here, you get a property tax rebate for living in the home (and an extra small rebate for also being a senior). Make that a $5k rebate and increase property taxes to match and now there’s a real incentive to sell. As it is, $1000/yr or whatever it is doesn’t bite enough to move the needle.