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Jeneroux’s Defection Pushes Carney Closer to Majority

                                                      MP Matt Jeneroux Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Liberal government has moved one seat nearer to a majority after Edmonton MP Matt Jeneroux crossed the floor from the Conservatives to join the governing caucus. Jeneroux, who had previously announced plans to resign, instead opted to align himself with Carney’s agenda, becoming the latest in a string of Conservative MPs to defect. Carney welcomed Jeneroux publicly, highlighting his experience and announcing that the Alberta MP will serve as a special adviser on economic and security partnerships. The move spares the government a byelection in Edmonton and adds further momentum to the Liberals’ recent gains, which have included multiple high‑profile floor crossings.  Jeneroux’s decision underscores shifting political dynami...

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Toronto’s Condo Crisis: A Dire Signal for Housing Affordability and Rental Market

 

The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) is facing a condo crisis that has significant implications for housing affordability and rental supply. According to a recent report by CIBC and Urbanation, the GTA’s condo market is “clearly in recessionary territory,” and the nationwide housing crisis is at a level not seen in over 30 years. Here are the key points:

  1. Condo Pre-Sales at a 20-Year Low: Toronto-area condo pre-sales are below 50%, marking a more than 20-year low. High costs, high interest rates, and poor investment prospects have left the market in a challenging situation.

  2. Investor Dilemma: Condo investors play a crucial role in rental supply and overall housing affordability. However, recent investors are mostly losing money, and prospective investors are avoiding new projects due to uncertainty.

  3. Developers Struggle: Developers face rising construction costs due to inflation, coupled with dwindling interest in future projects. This slowdown in future supply exacerbates the crisis.

  4. Limited Relief: Falling interest rates, projected population growth slowdown, and stabilized construction costs provide some relief. However, it’s not a magic solution, and a more comprehensive policy response is needed.

  5. Record-High Inventory: Unsold condo inventory in the second quarter of 2024 reached a record high of 25,893 units, more than 60% higher than the 10- and 20-year averages. Sales were the lowest in 20 years outside of the initial months of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In summary, Toronto’s condo market woes underscore the urgent need for housing policy reforms and creative solutions to address affordability and rental challenges.


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