Today, the Ontario government announced their Five-Year Climate Change Action Plan. Included in the plan is a home energy rating and disclosure program (HER&D). HER&D is a mandatory home energy audit regime for single-family homes that forces a homeowner to conduct an energy audit before they list their home. The program then requires the seller … Continued
The Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) won a bronze award from the Canadian Public Relations Society (CPRS) for its advocacy campaign to stop the spread of the municipal land transfer tax (MLTT) beyond Toronto. The campaign, “Say No to Another Home Owner Tax: Don’t Tax My Dream”, placed third in the Canadian Government Relations Campaign … Continued
Last week, the Honourable Ted McMeekin, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, introduced Bill 204, “Promoting Affordable Housing Act”. The policy goals outlined in the Act focus on increasing the supply of affordable housing. If passed, the Act will amend existing laws on second suites to make them less costly … 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
OREA’s GR team would like to welcome this year’s Government Relations Committee. Valerie Miles (Chair) Roger Bouma Glenda Brindle Kevin Crigger Henry David Stacey Evoy Amie Ferris Janice Myers Heidi Noel Von Palmer Robert Pfaff Debbie Vernon Sean Morrison Anna Vozza The committee helps identify legislative and regulatory issues that affect Ontario REALTORS® and the … Continued