Wealthy homeowners are digging deep, building underground karaoke lounges and golf simulators to get around building restrictions
(Illustration by Mike Ellis)
In Hoggs Hollow, an upscale Toronto neighbourhood, people love their trees. In November, many lawns bore a sign reading, “Stop the Chop,” a campaign to save a 250-year-old sugar maple. The signs remain, but the plea failed. The massive tree had stood behind a house that a family bought with plans to demolish it and build a new home. The buyers ignored a city forestry report and cut down the maple to accommodate a two-level basement whose area is nearly twice the above-ground footprint of their planned new house. Drawings show the basement will feature a karaoke lounge, a card table, a billiard room, a golf simulator, a stage, a basketball court, a spa featuring a steam room and sauna, an exercise room, a five-car garage, a kids’ lounge, a mud room, two bathrooms and a nannys’ lounge, plus “Nanny Room #1” and “Nanny Room #2.”
Below-grade mansions are not new. In the mid-2000s, very wealthy residents of the London boroughs of Chelsea, Mayfair, Knightsbridge and Westminster pioneered deep basements to make houses much bigger than rules permitted. Locals dubbed them “iceberg houses,” but after hundreds of approvals, London councils restricted the size of these subterranean pleasure dens. So far, big Canadian cities have no rules governing iceberg houses, and several of these huge caves already exist under homes in Vancouver and Toronto. Unless building departments draw up some rules, they may come soon to a street near you.
Locals in Hoggs Hollow fear for the future of the tree canopy, which makes the area resemble a forest with some houses in it. “We worked our asses off to move here, because it’s so green,” said Shannon Rancourt, sitting in her living room four doors from the proposed home. “Now it’s all being toppled.” Rancourt and a neighbour, Laura Lamarche, spearheaded the lawn-sign campaign; another sign reads, “Save our tree canopy! Stop Iceberg Houses.” They fear tree removals and huge basements could cause flooding in this valley. (When reached by Maclean’s, Minqiang Jian, an owner of the Hoggs Hollow house, said he plans to build “a normal property,” adding: “It’s no iceberger.” But as of this writing, no revisions to his building permit had been filed with the city.)
The iceberg house trend has reached Vancouver, says Matthew Soules, an architect and professor at the University of British Columbia. A 1950s home near UBC avoided the wrecking ball a few years ago because new owners were keen to preserve its mid-century-modern design. Instead, they dug a basement beside the house that is many times larger than the dwelling itself. Soules is aware of another iceberg house in West Vancouver’s Dundarave area. East of Vancouver, the Abbotsford News reported on a 10,000-sq.-ft. home whose vast underground garage stores vintage luxury cars and military vehicles.
These basements serve very particular purposes, Soules writes in his new book, Icebergs, Zombies and the Ultra Thin. Above ground, these houses offer what most do: places to cook, eat and sleep, while the underground portions become “personal Disneylands . . . an extended territory of leisure, entertainment and luxury-goods storage and display.”
Paul Miklas, a builder who specializes in very large houses, is excited about the opportunities of iceberg homes. He built one oversized basement on a 35,000-sq.-ft. mansion in Toronto’s exclusive Bridle Path area. Due to city zoning rules, a golf simulator included in his initial design would have, as he puts it, “crashed right into the view” from the pool. The solution: put the golf simulator underground. He added a below-ground wine cellar, theatre and gym.
With forethought, Miklas says, builders can save big trees and still dig huge basements: “If you are willing to put the money into a subterranean structure, figure out a way to accommodate the life of the tree.” With iceberg homes, he notes, “you don’t need a two-acre lot. Now you can blow the thing up to 12,000 sq. ft. underground. You can create these beautiful, massive homes, and it’s easier on the upkeep because there is less exposure to the elements.” In the spring he will break ground on another iceberg, with a theatre and a large swimming pool, both underground.
Soules says fear of iceberg houses extends beyond worries about trees. “These wealthy people are going to live underground and challenge our concepts of domesticity. It triggers our worries and anxieties and discomforts with growing wealth inequality in our cultures.”
Current zoning in Toronto allows home builders to dig as wide and deep as they want. But so far, the city hasn’t seen the sort of problems that have emerged in London, where excavations for iceberg homes have caused the foundations of neighbouring buildings to shift. In any case, says Kyle Knoeck, Toronto’s acting director of zoning, “This has never been a form of proposal that we have seen very often.”
Still, city council recently instructed planners to report back on ways to control the trend. Right now, says Councillor Jaye Robinson, “Things are done in a willy-nilly way. They approve now and ask questions later. If you lived beside one of these things, you wouldn’t be very happy if your foundations started cracking.”
Soules asks a more fundamental question about the trend to subterranean home theatres and golf simulators. “Before, you would go to the actual theatre and maybe fall in love with someone you met in the lobby,” he says. “Underground golf simulators? What happened to going to play golf on a golf course, and interacting with actual human beings?”
This article appears in print in the February 2022 issue of Maclean’s magazine with the headline, “What lies beneath.” Subscribe to the monthly print magazine here.
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.
