Pro-Palestinian supporters are calling for a second real estate event planned north of Toronto to be called down over concerns it involves the selling of land in the occupied West Bank.
On Sunday, dozens of people gathered near the Aish Hatorah synagogue in Thornhill, Ont., to protest an event that organizers say was aimed at helping people in the Toronto area buy property in Israel. They were met with pro-Israeli counterprotesters and Jewish leaders took issue with the Sunday protest taking place outside a synagogue.
But pro-Palestinian protesters say companies associated with the event market property in the West Bank, where over two million Palestinians live under Israel’s military occupation, according to the United Nations (UN).
“We weren’t there because it’s a synagogue, we were there because we were protesting against a real estate show,” said Ghada Sasa, who was at the protest over the weekend.
“[These events] shouldn’t be allowed to happen when they’re explicitly advertising land on occupied territory.”
The UN, alongside Canada, consider Israeli settlements in the occupied territories to be in violation of international convention, with the federal government saying they “constitute a serious obstacle to achieving a comprehensive, just and lasting peace.”
Protesters are taking issue with all recent real estate events over concerns land from the West Bank is being marketed and sold to Canadians. However, the issue of who is selling what is made complicated by the number of real estate companies with similar names associated with these events.
The first real estate event on Sunday was organized in part by Home In Israel, a Keller Williams affiliate, while the upcoming event planned for Thursday — happening in another synagogue in the area — is sponsored by another group called Your home in Israel.
The website for Thursday’s event, the “great Israeli Real Estate” show, does include mention of land in the West Bank. That event features properties from a group called My Home in Israel — which Keller Williams says is not affiliated with its franchise.
Keller Williams and another local organizer said the Sunday event did not market West Bank properties. Keller Williams said its affiliated Israeli sales team has helped organize events to sell homes in Tel Aviv and Haifa for more than two decades.
CBC Toronto could not independently verify what properties were being sold or shown Sunday.
A spokesperson for Keller Williams acknowledged the confusion between the two events. Per its website, Thursday’s show is sponsored by a number of companies, including IMP International, Emanuel Group, The Jewish Press, the Israeli American Council, and Your home in Israel.
“We advise leaders and agents to stay away from ‘My Home in Israel,’ ongoing events happening in Canada, New York, and New Jersey, which are causing mass protests and social media posts and are being conflated with our brand,” said Keller Williams franchise spokesperson Darryl Frost.
However, protesters have taken issue with a Keller Williams’s office location. The company lists a market centre in Modiin, an Israeli settlement in the West Bank. Frost said the centre is “on the Israeli side of what we understand to be the internationally recognized Israeli border, not the West Bank.”
Sasa said the issue is personal to her as her grandfather’s family was “expelled” from the land in the 1948 Arab-Israeli war, which was when the state of Israel was established. They’ve since not been allowed to return, she said.
She is calling for an immediate “injunction” against upcoming real estate events selling land on occupied Palestinian territory.
The protest is the latest local flashpoint arising from tensions sparked by the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas on Israel, which killed some 1,200 Israelis and foreigners. Israel has since responded with a relentless assault that has so far killed more than 30,000 Palestinians, according to Palestinian figures.
Natalia Birnbaum, a Realtor who helped organize Sunday’s event, told CBC Toronto it’s “absolutely, 100 per cent false” that property located on “disputed” land was promoted during the event.
“There was no sales for anything in the West Bank, anything on disputed territory,” she said, noting the projects on offer were being built on “existing” and “established” areas.
“I don’t know … where or how they’re getting this,” said Birnbaum, who is not involved with the upcoming event on Thursday.
Natalia Birnbaum is a Realtor with an office based in Toronto, Ont. She helped organize a real estate show in Thornhill that pro-Palestinian demonstrators protested against on Sunday. (Joe Fiorino/CBC)
Home In Israel said despite the protests, the event was a “great success” and thanked people who showed support, according to a post that was translated from Hebrew on their Facebook page.
The translated post said it’s a “privilege” to help Toronto residents buy property in Israel “for investment and/or for their upcoming immigration to Israel.”
Real estate events have been going on for years: rabbi
The upcoming real estate event on Thursday appears to be part of a fair, with other events happening in New Jersey, New York and Montreal, according to the “great Israeli real estate event” website.
According to the website, real estate agents will help customers inquiring about projects in places such as Modiin, Ma’ale Adumim, Neve Daniel and Efrat, which are Israeli settlements in the West Bank.
Rabbi Daniel Korobkin said the Beth Avraham Yoseph of Toronto synagogue has agreed to host the event on Thursday, just as it and other Jewish institutions have been doing for years.
“Many people in the Jewish community purchase property in Israel because we want to be able to have a connection to the homeland,” he told CBC Toronto.
Pro-Palestinian supporters say they are angry over allegations that the ‘great Israeli real estate event’ will feature property part of the occupied West Bank. (Realestateisrael.org)
While he couldn’t say if any of the promoted property is located in the West Bank, he said the “vast majority” of the land is located in “Israel proper.”
If Thursday’s event is met with more protests, he hopes people remain “peaceful,” adding that anyone that uses weapons or exercises violence should be “arrested by police and prosecuted by the law.”
If people are taking issue with this, Korobkin said, there are ways to address it other than through protest — something Jewish advocacy group B’nai Brith Canada agreed with.
Richard Robertson, B’nai Brith Canada’s director of research and advocacy, said in a statement the group is concerned for members of the community near the synagogues at the upcoming events, and are calling on police to prevent similar protests from happening.
“Nothing justifies targeting a house of worship,” said Robertson. “To target a shul is antisemitic and can never be tolerated in Canadian society.”
Chelsey Lichtman is a member of advocacy group Jews Say No to Genocide. She said the real estate shows in Thornhill are advertising properties in the occupied territories of West Bank. (Joe Fiorino/CBC)
But Chelsey Lichtman, a member of advocacy group Jews Say No to Genocide, said it’s “sacrilegious” to use synagogues as places to hold real estate events.
“The synagogues are holding events that [are] trying to get Canadians to invest in stolen Palestinian land in Israel,” said Lichtman, who works as a real estate agent.
“Selling stolen Palestinian land contributes to the ongoing colonization of Palestinian people.”
Police to monitor upcoming event
In an email, the City of Vaughan says it will continue to work with police “to uphold community safety and protect all of our residents.”
The city said the event on Sunday was initially scheduled to be held at its Garnet A. Williams Community Centre but was cancelled after city staff learned of a use “not permitted” in the space.
On Sunday, York Regional Police (YRP) arrested a 27-year-old man from Vaughan following a confrontation with pro-Palestinian demonstrators near Aish Hatorah.
No injuries have been reported, but police said the man was witnessed shouting obscenities at the protesters, and at one point, discharged a nail gun that was he carrying.
The accused is facing several charges, including assault, assault with a weapon, possessing a weapon dangerous to the public and mischief.
In an email statement to CBC Toronto, YRP said it’ll be present on Thursday to monitor any demonstrations.
“We are there to ensure it is safe, peaceful and lawful,” the statement said.
MONTREAL – The Quebec Professional Association of Real Estate Brokers says Montreal-area home sales rose 9.3 per cent in August compared with the same month last year, with levels slightly higher than the historical average for this time of year.
The association says home sales in the region totalled 2,991 for the month, up from 2,737 in August 2023.
The median price for all housing types was up year-over-year, led by a six per cent increase for the price of a plex at $763,000 last month.
The median price for a single-family home rose 5.2 per cent to $590,000 and the median price for a condominium rose 4.4 per cent to $407,100.
QPAREB market analysis director Charles Brant says the strength of the Montreal resale market contrasts with declines in many other Canadian cities struggling with higher levels of household debt, lower savings and diminishing purchasing power.
Active listings for August jumped 18 per cent compared with a year earlier to 17,200, while new listings rose 1.7 per cent to 4,840.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 6, 2024.
In the quest to find cities where renters can enjoy the best of all worlds, a recent study analyzed 24 metrics across three key categories—Housing & Economy, Quality of Life, and Community. The study ranked the 100 largest cities in Canada to determine which ones offer the most to their renters.
Here are the top 10 cities that emerged as the best for renters in 2024:
St. John’s, NL
St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, stand out as the top city for renters in Canada for 2024. Known for its vibrant cultural scene, stunning natural beauty, and welcoming community, St. John’s offers an exceptional quality of life. The city boasts affordable housing, a robust economy, and low unemployment rates, making it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced and enriching living experience. Its rich history, picturesque harbour, and dynamic arts scene further enhance its appeal, ensuring that renters can enjoy both comfort and excitement in this charming coastal city.
Sherbrooke, QC
Sherbrooke, Quebec, emerges as a leading city for renters in Canada for 2024, offering a blend of affordability and quality of life. Nestled in the heart of the Eastern Townships, Sherbrooke is known for its picturesque landscapes, vibrant cultural scene, and strong community spirit. The city provides affordable rental options, low living costs, and a thriving local economy, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both comfort and economic stability. With its rich history, numerous parks, and dynamic arts and education sectors, Sherbrooke presents an inviting environment for renters looking for a well-rounded lifestyle.
Québec City, QC
Québec City, the capital of Quebec, stands out as a premier destination for renters in Canada for 2024. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural heritage, this city offers an exceptional quality of life. Renters benefit from affordable housing, excellent public services, and a robust economy. The city’s charming streets, historic sites, and diverse culinary scene provide a unique living experience. With top-notch education institutions, numerous parks, and a strong sense of community, Québec City is an ideal choice for those seeking a dynamic and fulfilling lifestyle.
Trois-Rivières, QC
Trois-Rivières, nestled between Montreal and Quebec City, emerges as a top choice for renters in Canada. This historic city, known for its picturesque riverside views and rich cultural scene, offers an appealing blend of affordability and quality of life. Renters in Trois-Rivières enjoy reasonable housing costs, a low unemployment rate, and a vibrant community atmosphere. The city’s well-preserved historic sites, bustling arts community, and excellent educational institutions make it an attractive destination for those seeking a balanced and enriching lifestyle.
Saguenay, QC
Saguenay, located in the stunning Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region of Quebec, is a prime destination for renters seeking affordable living amidst breathtaking natural beauty. Known for its picturesque fjords and vibrant cultural scene, Saguenay offers residents a high quality of life with lower housing costs compared to major urban centers. The city boasts a strong sense of community, excellent recreational opportunities, and a growing economy. For those looking to combine affordability with a rich cultural and natural environment, Saguenay stands out as an ideal choice.
Granby, QC
Granby, nestled in the heart of Quebec’s Eastern Townships, offers renters a delightful blend of small-town charm and ample opportunities. Known for its beautiful parks, vibrant cultural scene, and family-friendly environment, Granby provides an exceptional quality of life. The city’s affordable housing market and strong sense of community make it an attractive option for those seeking a peaceful yet dynamic place to live. With its renowned zoo, bustling downtown, and numerous outdoor activities, Granby is a hidden gem that caters to a diverse range of lifestyles.
Fredericton, NB
Fredericton, the capital city of New Brunswick, offers renters a harmonious blend of historical charm and modern amenities. Known for its vibrant arts scene, beautiful riverfront, and welcoming community, Fredericton provides an excellent quality of life. The city boasts affordable housing options, scenic parks, and a strong educational presence with institutions like the University of New Brunswick. Its rich cultural heritage, coupled with a thriving local economy, makes Fredericton an attractive destination for those seeking a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.
Saint John, NB
Saint John, New Brunswick’s largest city, is a coastal gem known for its stunning waterfront and rich heritage. Nestled on the Bay of Fundy, it offers renters an affordable cost of living with a unique blend of historic architecture and modern conveniences. The city’s vibrant uptown area is bustling with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, while its scenic parks and outdoor spaces provide ample opportunities for recreation. Saint John’s strong sense of community and economic growth make it an inviting place for those looking to enjoy both urban and natural beauty.
Saint-Hyacinthe, QC
Saint-Hyacinthe, located in the Montérégie region of Quebec, is a vibrant city known for its strong agricultural roots and innovative spirit. Often referred to as the “Agricultural Technopolis,” it is home to numerous research centers and educational institutions. Renters in Saint-Hyacinthe benefit from a high quality of life with access to excellent local amenities, including parks, cultural events, and a thriving local food scene. The city’s affordable housing and close-knit community atmosphere make it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced and enriching lifestyle.
Lévis, QC
Lévis, located on the southern shore of the St. Lawrence River across from Quebec City, offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern conveniences. Known for its picturesque views and well-preserved heritage sites, Lévis is a city where history meets contemporary living. Residents enjoy a high quality of life with excellent public services, green spaces, and cultural activities. The city’s affordable housing options and strong sense of community make it a desirable place for renters looking for both tranquility and easy access to urban amenities.
This category looked at factors such as average rent, housing costs, rental availability, and unemployment rates. Québec stood out with 10 cities ranking at the top, demonstrating strong economic stability and affordable housing options, which are critical for renters looking for cost-effective living conditions.
Québec again led the pack in this category, with five cities in the top 10. Ontario followed closely with three cities. British Columbia excelled in walkability, with four cities achieving the highest walk scores, while Caledon topped the list for its extensive green spaces. These factors contribute significantly to the overall quality of life, making these cities attractive for renters.
Victoria, BC, emerged as the leader in this category due to its rich array of restaurants, museums, and educational institutions, offering a vibrant community life. St. John’s, NL, and Vancouver, BC, also ranked highly. Québec City, QC, and Lévis, QC, scored the highest in life satisfaction, reflecting a strong sense of community and well-being. Additionally, Saskatoon, SK, and Oshawa, ON, were noted for having residents with lower stress levels.
For a comprehensive view of the rankings and detailed interactive visuals, you can visit the full study by Point2Homes.
While no city can provide a perfect living experience for every renter, the cities highlighted in this study come remarkably close by excelling in key areas such as housing affordability, quality of life, and community engagement. These findings offer valuable insights for renters seeking the best places to live in Canada in 2024.
The provincial regulator responsible for policing B.C.’s real estate industry has ordered a former Realtor to pay $130,000 and cancelled her licence after determining that she committed a variety of professional misconduct.
Rashin Rohani surrendered her licence in December 2023, but the BC Financial Services Authority’s chief hearing officer Andrew Pendray determined that it should nevertheless be cancelled as a signal to other licensees that “repetitive participation in deceptive schemes” will result in “significant” punishment.
He also ordered her to pay a $40,000 administrative penalty and $90,000 in enforcement expenses. Pendray explained his rationale for the penalties in a sanctions decision issued on May 17. The decision was published on the BCFSA website Wednesday.
Rohani’s misconduct occurred over a period of several years, and came in two distinct flavours, according to the decision.
Pendray found she had submitted mortgage applications for five different properties that she either owned or was purchasing, providing falsified income information on each one.
Each of these applications was submitted using a person referred to in the decision as “Individual 1” as a mortgage broker. Individual 1 was not a registered mortgage broker and – by the later applications – Rohani either knew or ought to have known this was the case, according to the decision.
All of that constituted “conduct unbecoming” under B.C.’s Real Estate Services Act, Pendray concluded.
Separately, Rohani also referred six clients to Individual 1 when she knew or ought to have known he wasn’t a registered mortgage broker, and she received or anticipated receiving a referral fee from Individual 1 for doing so, according to the decision. Rohani did not disclose this financial interest in the referrals to her clients.
Pendray found all of that to constitute professional misconduct under the act.
‘Deceptive’ scheme
The penalties the chief hearing officer chose to impose for this behaviour were less severe than those sought by the BCFSA in the case, but more significant than those Rohani argued she should face.
Rohani submitted that the appropriate penalty for her conduct would be a six-month licence suspension or a $15,000 discipline penalty, plus $20,000 in enforcement expenses.
For its part, the BCFSA asked Pendray to cancel Rohani’s licence and impose a $100,000 discipline penalty plus more than $116,000 in enforcement expenses.
Pendray’s ultimate decision to cancel the licence and impose penalties and expenses totalling $130,000 reflected his assessment of the severity of Rohani’s misconduct.
Unlike other cases referenced by the parties in their submissions, Rohani’s misconduct was not limited to a single transaction involving falsified documents or a series of such transactions during a brief period of time, according to the decision.
“Rather, in this case Ms. Rohani repetitively, over the course of a number of years, elected to personally participate in a deceptive mortgage application scheme for her own benefit, and subsequently, arranged for her clients to participate in the same deceptive mortgage application scheme,” the decision reads.
Pendray further noted that, although Rohani had been licensed for “a significant period of time,” she had only completed a small handful of transactions, according to records from her brokerage.
There were just six transactions on which her brokerage recorded earnings for her between December 2015 and February 2020, according to the decision. Of those six, four were transactions that were found to have involved misconduct or conduct unbecoming.
“In sum, Ms. Rohani’s minimal participation in the real estate industry as a licensee has, for the majority of that minimal participation, involved her engaging in conduct unbecoming involving deceptive practices and professional misconduct,” the decision reads.
According to the decision, Rohani must pay the $40,000 discipline penalty within 90 days of the date it was issued.
