09/17/2026
Canada Fee Cuts Could Unlock Supply
Development fees are a major factor shaping new-home affordability across Canada. According to a national housing agency, reducing these fees could boost the viability of certain residential projects by about 14%. In cities like Toronto and Vancouver, the impact is even more dramatic: eliminating development charges could increase the number of feasible projects by nearly 10%. For Toronto, this shift could help the city meet half of its stated supply needs. When we look at Calgary, development fees for a one-bedroom high-rise are around $4,000, while detached homes face fees of about $9,000—much lower compared to Vancouver’s $20,000 to $33,000 range for similar units. While these fees fund essential services like roads, sewers, and administration, experts believe the solution isn’t to bring them to zero, but to find an optimal balance. Lowering fees, especially on family-sized homes, could help new projects compete in our high-cost markets. This is particularly important in areas like Vancouver, where many larger newly built homes cost more than comparable resale options, presenting real challenges for families. I keep a close eye on these policy shifts, as they can make a real difference for both buyers and sellers navigating our dynamic real estate landscape.