Increase to Minimum Down Payments

Increase to Minimum Down Payments

December 11th, 2015 the government announced its intent to raise the minimum down payment requirements on homes valued over $500,000. 

For example a $700,000 home will require a $45,000 down payment, 5 per cent on $500,000 and 10 per cent down on the remaining $200,000. 

The government cites its desire to “contain risks in the housing market” as the reason for its decision.
The issue of an increase to minimum down payments is something CREA (Canadian Real Estate Association)  has effectively and successfully fought against since 2011.

CREA is disappointed with this decision and have communicated to the government and the media our concerns. That said, we believe the tiered approach the government is taking is preferable to an increase in minimum down payments for all consumers, given the importance of first time homebuyers to the market and the economy.

Talking Points

• Canada’s housing market is a key component of Canada’s overall economic stability and an important job creator.

• In 2015 each home sale generates an estimated $51,409 in spin-off spending. This translates into one job for every three transactions. Home sales and purchase in 2016 will add an estimate $26 billion in spin-off consumer spending and creates nearly $183,000 jobs.

• Indeed, our economy grew at 2.3 per cent in the last quarter, and home sales and purchases were a significant reason for that growth.

• Given the tools available to the government to intervene in the housing market we believe today’s announcement will cause unintended collateral damage to markets beyond Toronto and Vancouver.

• It could turn buyers and balanced markets into distressed markets, at a time when our economy is struggling.

Requirements will remain at 5 per cent down payment for homes under 500,000. Any amount over $500,000 will require a 10 per cent down payment.

The announced changes will take effect on February 15, 2016.

CREA will continue to advocate for homebuyers, sellers and members on this issue.

If you would like to know how this decision affects you and your personal situation. Give me a call. With over 20 years real estate industry experience I would love to be of assistance to you. 

Sincerely,

Lisa Portolese, Sales Representative

Royal LePage Signature Realty

Email: LisaMovesYou@Rogers.com

(905) 568-2121

Municipal Land Transfer Tax: UPDATE!

Municipal Land Transfer Tax:  UPDATE!

From Patricia Verge,
President, Ontario Real Estate Association

It gives me great pleasure today to inform you that this morning, Ted McMeekin, the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, informed the legislature that the government will not give municipalities the ability to charge a municipal land transfer tax (MLTT).

Below is a portion of copy of the Minister's statement:

While we are currently reviewing the feedback from our partners, it is clear is that there has been no call for a Municipal Land Transfer Tax.  I was pleased communicate our government's position today, that other than in Toronto, where the power already exists, our government will not be extending Municipal Land Transfer Tax powers to other Ontario municipalities.

In short, the government has listened to our campaign and agreed that the MLTT was the wrong tax for Ontario municipalities. In doing so, you, Ontario REALTORS, have helped stop one of the largest tax increases on home ownership in a generation. 

It is one of the biggest government relations wins in our association's history. Congratulations everyone!


Lisa Portolese
Royal LePage Signature Realty
416-953-9714