A real estate sold sign in a neighbourhood of Ottawa on April 17.LARS HAGBERG/Reuters
Pay consequences
Re “Canada Revenue Agency workers who misused CERB must face consequences, says union leader” (July 3): While the Canada Revenue Agency is snatching overpayments of the Canada Emergency Response Benefit from poor Canadians, leading many to be evicted or actually starving, some of its own employees, earning at least $50,000, defrauded the agency and they only might lose their jobs?
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, a second definition is a “rapid increase in how often something bad happens.” The term “epidemic” therefore qualifies in this context.
I am disgusted that these officials would be so picayune as to diminish the importance of intimate partner violence with such sophistry.
The Port of Vancouver, Canada’s busiest port, is a shockingly weak performer. It placed second to last (347 of 348) in the most recent World Bank global efficiency ranking. The port workers’ union opposes efficiency-boosting automation.
Given the importance of ports to the Canadian economy, why is there no investigation of the concentration of industrial power at B.C. ports? By contrast, a recent Competition Bureau study said that “governments at all levels need to take steps to encourage and support more grocery competition” (”Canada’s grocery industry doesn’t give consumers enough choice, Competition Bureau finds” – Report on Business, June 28).
If Loblaws workers go on strike, I can shop at Sobeys or Walmart or other grocery stores. Users of the Port of Vancouver do not have such ready alternatives.
Maybe Canadians will have to go directly to Canadian sources to get their news. No big deal.
Bruce Burbank Woodstock, Ont.
Action-oriented
Re “The U.S. Supreme Court got something right about affirmative action” (Report on Business, June 30): In Canada, what we do have are foreign students with the means to pay “full-price” tuition fees. Thus young Canadians (of all backgrounds) are increasingly disfavoured in access to their own country’s institutions in a drive to maximize revenue.
David Payne Toronto
Affirmative action is a promise written into our constitution.
The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, at section 15(2), upholds so-called reverse discrimination in affirmative action when its purpose is to correct historical wrongs against disadvantaged groups. This includes university admissions, hiring practices and housing opportunities for racialized, disabled and gender-disempowered people.
Canada’s federal human-rights law also affirms special programs that use affirmative action to help the marginalized. This is substantive equality, a legal principle that helps the marginalized seek equal treatment and access compared to those who do not face similar barriers.
Our Supreme Court has upheld and promised to protect this right because it is logical, fair and legally sound.
Sarah NimanHuman-rights lawyer, Ottawa
Canada is not the United States, yet we seem to have gradually followed that country’s decades-long descent into a world where education is only available to those with the ability to pay up front, or for decades after completion.
It doesn’t matter if it is a trades diploma or a PhD: It should be a disgrace that we limit people’s ability to educate themselves, transition to new careers or discover new ones. Furthermore, I see a growing reliance on international students to pay for domestic programs, sullying our reputation as a welcoming, fair-minded nation.
Education is the basis of civilized society. It should always be a service provided to all, by all.
No matter the political party, all governments should make education a right for all Canadians to access for free.
Chris AlemanyPort Alberni, B.C.
Combien?
Re “Word of mouth” and “Price comparison” (Letters, July 3): Two letter-writers, arguing against bilingualism requirements for Supreme Court judges and food labels, remind me of a conversation I had with a Toronto-born colleague.
A few years ago, while working on a bilingual mobile app targeted at the Canadian market, we looked up how many of our potential users are francophones. Upon learning the number is more than seven million people, she remarked that she’s always surprised how many people speak French in Canada.
Having immigrated to Canada from Europe, my retort was that I’m always surprised how many people don’t.
Ian Starwell Toronto
Move it
Re “Drive through” (Letters, July 4): A letter-writer says mobility for all is a social good. I agree, but not with mobility in a two-ton box.
A car takes up many times more room than a person on foot, on a bus or on a bike. But as it is, nobody seems to have good mobility in our clogged cities. I guess one could say that is a form of equality.
How do low-income people afford to own and operate cars in our expensive cities in the first place? How liberating it would be if money collected from road pricing could be used to greatly improve transit, cycling and walking.
A renovated four-bed, two-bath house – with new kitchen, bathroom and floors, lots of parking and good location – goes for less than $500,000. There are also houses that cost $1-million-plus in new developments, but why spend that much?
Sure, Regina is a small city. But it has everything a bigger city has: cinemas, theatre, a symphony, restaurants, football, jobs. It’s also easier to manage and less congested. Kitty-corner across town takes 15 minutes by car – at 4:30 in the afternoon on a weekday.
Come visit (in the summer, though).
Claudette ClaereboudtRegina
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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.
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