This timeline provides an overview of some of the key housing issues faced by communities across Ontario and how governments have responded to these issues over the past 50 years, including a detailed look at how the pandemic has exacerbated existing issues. It shows that, as investments in affordable housing have dwindled, housing insecurity has grown – especially among the most vulnerable communities.
The final cost to the buyer is more relevant than the cost to the builder. It looks like that’s closer to 5-7%.
There are lots of small things that might take a few percent off the cost of housing, if developers and landlords are feeling generous. But we’ll need systemic reform if we’re going to get prices back to affordable.