The Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) and the Toronto Real Estate Board (TREB) met with Premier Kathleen Wynne today to discuss housing affordability and other real estate issues affecting Ontarians. Realtors are encouraged by Premier Wynne’s commitment to helping more young Ontarians become home owners. “We discussed a range of solutions to help with home … Continued
OREA’s government relations team is excited to welcome PAC delegates later this month to our annual Political Affairs Conference (PAC). PAC welcomes politically active Realtors® to help them deepen their understanding of political issues and encourage Realtor® participation in the political process. Most importantly, Realtor® delegates meet with MPPs to discuss Realtor® issues and … Continued
Last week, Premier Wynne released all of her ministers’ mandate letters. Beginning in 2014, she is the first premier to make these letters public. This was done with the intention of creating more openness, accountability and to reiterate the government’s commitments. The letters highlight the government’s commitment to growing jobs and the economy, investing in … Continued
After a busy summer, MPPs are back at Queen’s Park. In the throne speech delivered earlier this week by Ontario’s lieutenant governor, the Honourable Elizabeth Dowdeswell, the government outlined their plans for this session. In the speech, the government re-affirms their commitment to balancing the budget next year and helping home owners reduce energy consumption. … Continued
The Ontario Real Estate Association announced a donation of $65, 000 through the Canadian REALTORS Care® Foundation for the Canadian Red Cross’ Alberta fires appeal. (Fort McMurray). “We wish the residents of Fort McMurray continued strength under these trying circumstances,” said Ray Ferris, President of the Ontario Real Estate Association. “The REALTOR® Community understands the importance … Continued
OREA is pleased to welcome Clare Buckley for the next four months as a Government Relations Intern. Clare is in her final year at the University of Waterloo studying Political Science and Business. Clare previously interned at Queen’s Park for eight months where she worked for the Government Caucus Office and the Office of the … Continued
It has been almost five years since OREA launched its very successful “Home Ownership Matters” campaign. The purpose of the campaign was to promote greater support for affordable home ownership to candidates, political parties and key decision makers. Thanks to OREA’s public relations and adverting efforts, our message was picked up by major news outlets … Continued
For many first-time buyers in Ontario, saving for a down payment is among the biggest obstacles to home ownership. The provincial land transfer tax (LTT) and other closing costs reduce the size of a buyer’s down payment, making it more difficult to enter the market. Currently, first-time buyers are eligible for a maximum LTT rebate … Continued
OREA’s volunteers play a significant role in the success of our association and industry through their dedication, expertise and leadership. Our MLTT campaign last year is a good example of how our 64,000 members and committed volunteers can mobilize and impact policy decisions in Ontario. Across the province, volunteer leaders serving as PAC chairs and … Continued
The Government of Ontario is currently undertaking a review of the Ontario New Home Warranties Plan Act and the Tarion Warranty Corporation. Lead by special advisor, the Honourable J. Douglas Cunningham, the review of existing legislation and regulations will help identify ways to better protect consumers buying new homes in Ontario. The review will make … Continued