There’s a variety of rental projects up for discussion at the City of Burnaby’s next public hearing.
You can share your thoughts with city council and staff on Tuesday, July 25 about the developments proposed for various neighbourhoods.
Members of the public can attend in-person at Burnaby City Hall (4949 Canada Way) at 5 p.m. or online.
This month’s hearing will include a 42-storey condo tower and two different six-storey rental buildings. BCIT’s signage is also up on the docket.
Read on to find out about this month’s developments. For more information on how to engage in public hearings, see the city’s website.
A rendering of the 43-storey condo tower near Holdom SkyTrain station. Boffo Developments
Bassano Master Plan Phase 1: Tower
Address: 2210 Springer Ave. and portions of 2160 Springer Ave. and 5334 Lougheed Hwy.
Purpose: to allow construction of a 43-storey highrise condo building with street-front retail and underground parking as part of Phase 1 of the Bassano master plan
Developer: Boffo Developments
Neighbourhood: Brentwood Town Centre
First brought to council: Dec. 6, 2021; Bassano master plan approved July 25, 2022
Details
Currently on the site are industrial buildings
318 strata condo units total
124 one-bedroom units (between 626 and 677 sq. ft.); 158 two-bedrooms (between 898 and 986 sq. ft.) and 42 three-bedrooms (between 1,096 and 1,732 sq. ft.)
462 parking spaces (the number of parking spots exceeds Burnaby’s minimum requirements by 110 stalls.) The development is about 500 metres from Holdom SkyTrain station, a six-minute walk.)
Bike parking: 636 secured residential (double lockers) and 110 visitor spaces (bike racks)
The retail space at ground level will be given to a café, restaurant, outdoor produce shop, child-care facility, or retail store “catering to the day-to-day shopping needs” of neighbourhood residents
Amenities include work lounges, multi-purpose rooms, fitness facilities, guest suites, music rooms, public art and a “sky lounge.”
The developer will provide a two-zone transit pass for 15 per cent of the units for two years, a car-share subsidy for a two-year car-share membership for each unit
Burnaby requires 20 per cent of multifamily developments to be below-market rental apartments in the same building.
But for this development, council has allowed the required rental units to be built on another property in the Royal Oak neighbourhood at 5650 Beresford St. (see next development for details).
A rendering of the six-storey rental building at 5650 Beresford St. in Burnaby. Boffo Developments
Beresford rental building “swing site”
Address: 5650 Beresford St.
Purpose: to allow construction of a six-storey rental building and underground parking
Developer: Boffo Developments
Neighbourhood: Royal Oak
First brought to council: Dec. 6, 2021; council approved transferring the required rental component to Beresford on Oct. 4, 2021
The Beresford site will initially be interim housing (the city calls it a “swing site”) for tenants displaced by Metrotown redevelopment. Burnaby’s tenant assistance policy requires developers build replacement rental units for tenants whose older rental apartments are demolished to make way for new construction. Tenants live in interim housing until the replacement units are built.
The swing site rental apartments on Beresford will be rented at the rates tenants paid in their demolished building.
When Phase 3 of the Bassano master plan is complete, the Beresford units will be rented at 20 per cent below CMHC median rates for Southeast Burnaby.
The city expects Phase 3 to be complete “within 10 years,” but notes market factors can delay construction.
The city proposes including a “sunset clause” that could “terminate” the swing site from operating as interim tenant housing 10 years after the building gains occupancy, at the city’s discretion.
Beresford development details
104 rental apartments total
12 studio apartments (between 351 and 499 sq. ft.); 48 one-bedrooms (between 538 and 575 sq. ft.); 38 two-bedrooms (between 700 and 762 sq. ft.); six three bedrooms (899 sq. ft.)
59 parking spaces
Bike parking: 215 secured residential (double lockers) and 21 visitor spaces (bike racks)
Amenities include a multi-purpose room, lawn area, garden plots, communal barbecue and dining area
A city-owned lane adjacent to the property will be closed and consolidated with the development site
A rendering of the rental development at 4701 and 4705 Hastings St. Vittori Developments
Six-storey rental building in the Heights
Address: 4701 and 4705 Hastings St.
Purpose: To allow construction of a six-storey multi-family rental building with commercial retail uses at ground level and underground parking
Developer: Vittori Developments
Neighbourhood: Burnaby Heights
First brought to council: Dec. 7, 2020
Details
Currently on the site are two lowrise commercial buildings
50 total rental units proposed (42 units rented at market rates; four units rented at 80 per cent of median rental rates; four units rented at the median rate)
Units include 11 studios (492 sq. ft.), 31 one-bedrooms (between 539 and 687 sq. ft.), eight two-bedrooms (between 700 and 821 sq. ft.)
63 vehicle parking spaces
57 bike spaces
Amenities include a rooftop with barbecue and seating areas
BCIT’s master sign plan will set out the rules for signage across the school’s campus. BCIT
Master Sign Plan at BCIT:
Address: 3700 Willingdon Ave. and 4355 Mathissi Pl.
Purpose: to establish a master plan for signage throughout the BCIT campus which would replace the current comprehensive signage plan and will set out the rules for signs across BCIT including large school identity signs, wayfinding signs and building signage
MONTREAL – Two Quebec real estate brokers are facing fines and years-long suspensions for submitting bogus offers on homes to drive up prices during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Christine Girouard has been suspended for 14 years and her business partner, Jonathan Dauphinais-Fortin, has been suspended for nine years after Quebec’s authority of real estate brokerage found they used fake bids to get buyers to raise their offers.
Girouard is a well-known broker who previously starred on a Quebec reality show that follows top real estate agents in the province.
She is facing a fine of $50,000, while Dauphinais-Fortin has been fined $10,000.
The two brokers were suspended in May 2023 after La Presse published an article about their practices.
One buyer ended up paying $40,000 more than his initial offer in 2022 after Girouard and Dauphinais-Fortin concocted a second bid on the house he wanted to buy.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 11, 2024.
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.
