Innovative Home Solutions in Real Estate: Trends and Opportunities • 22 April 2024

Canadian Government Home Suites: Unlocking New Opportunities

by Christina Reid

Budget 2024 will propose a new Secondary Suite Loan Program to enable homeowners to access up to $40,000 in low-interest loans to add secondary suites to their homes.

Canadian Government Eases Path for Home Suites: Unlocking New Opportunities

Canadian Government Home Suites Budget 2024: In a significant move to address the housing shortage and provide more affordable living options, the Canadian Government has recently implemented new measures making it easier for homeowners to add secondary suites to their properties. This development is especially crucial for the real estate market, including those involved in new construction homes, and heralds a wave of opportunities for buyers and builders alike.

Canadian Government Home Suites,What’s Changing?

The new regulations introduced by the government aim to streamline the process of creating additional dwelling units (ADUs) such as basement apartments, granny flats, and garden suites. By simplifying zoning laws and reducing bureaucratic hurdles, homeowners can now enhance their property’s value and generate additional income more efficiently than ever before.

Impact on New Construction Homes

For the new construction market, these changes are particularly beneficial. Homebuilders can now design and construct new homes with the foresight of easily integrating secondary suites. This foresight not only aligns with current market demands but also increases the attractiveness of new homes to a broader range of potential buyers.

1. Increased Property Value: Homes designed with the potential for secondary suites are seen as more versatile and valuable, appealing to a segment of buyers interested in investment opportunities or seeking to offset mortgage costs through rental income.
2. Broader Market Appeal: The flexibility to add a secondary suite can attract multi-generational families, investors, or first-time home buyers looking for affordable alternatives in a competitive market.
3. Enhanced Community Development: Integrating secondary suites in new constructions promotes higher-density living without altering neighbourhood character, supporting community growth and sustainability.

Benefits to Homeowners and Community

Homeowners stand to benefit significantly from the relaxed regulations. The ability to add secondary suites not only helps with mortgage payments but also increases housing supply, a crucial factor in many of Canada’s rapidly growing regions.
* Economic Advantage: Additional rental income supports homeowners financially and stimulates local economies.
* Increased Housing Options: More secondary suites mean more affordable housing options without the need for new infrastructure.
* Community Diversity: Diverse housing options bring together various demographic groups, enriching the community fabric.

The Canadian Government’s initiative to make it easier for homeowners to add additional suites is a visionary step towards solving the housing affordability crisis. This policy not only benefits current homeowners but also opens up new avenues for developers and builders focusing on new construction homes.

By embracing these changes, the real estate industry can anticipate a more dynamic market landscape, marked by innovative housing solutions and increased accessibility. Whether you are a homeowner, builder, or investor, now is the time to explore how secondary suites can benefit you and your community.

Fort Saskatchewan Home Sales Statistics • 12 April 2024

Fort Saskatchewan Real Estate Market Statistics- April 2024

by Christina Reid

Fort Saskatchewan Real Estate Market Statistics

Fort Saskatchewan real estate market has seen significant changes and growth over the past year. Analyze the latest statistics to understand the trends and provide insights into the local property market.

Bar Graphs Below Are Interactive

Fort Saskatchewan MLS® Listings

Fort Saskatchewan saw 346 new listings this year, an 18.6% increase compared to 2023.

Fort Saskatchewan Average List Price

The average asking price has reached $448K, a modest 4.14% rise over April of 2023.

Fort Saskatchewan Home Sales

There were 107 sold properties, a substantial increase of 118.37% from April 2023. A total of 268 properties have been sold so far this year, representing a 63.41% increase compared to the same period last year.

Fort Saskatchewan Average Home Sale Price

The average sale price stands at $436K, a 10.66% increase from April 2023. The average sale price year to date has risen to $427K, up by 9.40% compared to last year.

Fort Saskatchewan -Average Days on Market

Homes are selling faster, with a decrease in the average number of days on the market to 67.

The Fort Saskatchewan real estate market has seen impressive growth in sales and price increases over the past year. The considerable rise in the number of sold properties and new listings reflects a robust demand for homes in the region. Moreover, the consistent increase in average sale prices indicates a seller’s market. Whether you’re a buyer or seller, these insights can help guide your decisions in this dynamic real estate market.

Data provided by the REALTORS® Association of Edmonton and subject to change. Always consult with a real estate professional for the most current market information.

Are you considering buying or selling or just interested in more information on the real estate market in Fort Saskatchewan? CONTACT ME HERE

City of Fort Saskatchewan Website

St. Albert Real Estate Market Stats • 12 April 2024

St. Albert Real Estate Statistics – March 2024

by Christina Reid

St. Albert Real Estate Statistics – March 2024

A look into St. Albert Real Estate Statistics – March 2024, where we dive into the latest trends and insights. If you’re considering buying, selling, or investing in St. Albert, understanding these trends is crucial.

Robust Sales Growth in Early 2024

In the early months of 2024, St. Albert has witnessed a substantial increase in property sales. By March, the total number of sold properties reached 114, marking a significant 20.00% rise compared to March 2023. The year-to-date figures are even more impressive, with 259 properties sold—a 28.22% increase from the previous year. This spike in sales volume underscores a vibrant market that’s attracting more buyers and investors.

Rising Property Values- St. Albert Home Sales Statistics

The average sale price in St. Albert has seen notable growth, reflecting the strong demand. As of March 2024, the average sales price stood at $505K, up 10.30% from the same month in 2023. The year-to-date average of $497K represents a 14.20% increase from last year. This consistent appreciation in property values indicates a healthy market that offers excellent potential for capital gains.

Market Dynamics: Listings and Pricing

Despite the growth in sales and property values, the number of new listings in St. Albert has slightly declined. From a year-to-date perspective, there were 183 new listings in 2024, down by 7.11% from the previous year. This tightening of available properties can contribute to competitive market conditions, where buyers may face limited choices and sellers can leverage this to their advantage.

The average asking price in the market has adjusted accordingly. With a current average listed price of $534K, there’s been a 3.97% increase over the year. Sellers are also achieving close to their asking prices, with an average ask-to-sell ratio tightening to 0.996, signifying that most homes sell for nearly what sellers initially ask.

Time on Market and Monthly Trends

Homes in St. Albert are also selling faster, with the days on market until sale decreasing. This quicker turnover is a positive sign for both buyers and sellers, indicating a market that is both active and responsive.

Analyzing monthly price movements provides further insights. January 2024 saw average sales prices around $452K, which increased to $505K by March. This upward trajectory in prices demonstrates seasonal strength and growing buyer interest. St. Albert Real Estate Statistics – March 2024

Bar Graphs Below Are Interactive

St. Albert New Listing Count

A total of 183 new listings came on market during the month. This is down 7.1% from last March where we saw 197 homes come to market.

St. Albert Average List Price

The average list price of a St. Albert home was $533.3k up from March 2023 $513.3k

St. Albert Home Sales

There was 114 home sales during the month of March, an increase of 20% from same time last year.

St. Albert Average Cost of Home

The average home sale price in St. Albert was $504.6k. This is up 10.3% from last March when we saw an average price of $457.4k

St. Albert Days on MLS®

St. Albert homes were on MLS® an average of 64 days before selling.

For those considering entering the St. Albert home sales statistics for March 2024 show now might be an opportune time. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or invest. Stay tuned to the latest trends and market forecasts to make informed decisions in this lively real estate landscape.

Interested in buying or selling in St. Albert CONTACT CHRIS REID

St. Albert Website

Parkland County Real Estate Market Statistics • 10 April 2024

Parkland County Acreage Sales Statistics March 2024

by Christina Reid

Selling or buying an acreage in parkland county

Parkland County Acreage Sales Statistics – March 2024

Parkland County acreage sales statistics for 2024 reveal trends that are reshaping the landscape for both sellers and buyers.

Sold Properties Analysis

Parkland County witnessed a slight contraction in sold properties, with 40 transactions marking a 9.09% decrease compared to March 2023. However, when we broaden our lens to the year-to-date (YTD) figures, there’s a silver lining. The YTD count in 2024 tallies at 104 sold properties, demonstrating a 9.47% uptick from the previous year. This rebound underscores a resilient market that, despite short-term fluctuations, shows an overall positive trajectory.

Pricing Trends: A Seller’s Market

A pivotal factor fuelling Parkland County’s market dynamics is the pricing trend, which significantly leans towards a seller’s advantage. The average asking price has surged to $750K, marking a notable 27.09% increase YTD in 2024 compared to 2023. The escalation is slightly mirrored in the YTD change from 2023, where the average asking price was $745K, a 28.67% hike from $579K in 2023. Furthermore, the average sale price stands at $730K, a staggering 43.34% increase YTD in 2024, compared to the same period in 2023. Significant appreciation in property values indicates a robust demand and a competitive market environment.

Market Liquidity and New Listings

Turning our attention to market liquidity, the number of new listings in Parkland County tells a story of cautious optimism. With 95 new listings YTD in 2024, there’s a slight 6.86% decrease compared to 2023. This marginal decline suggests a tighter market, with fewer homeowners willing to sell, potentially due to the attractive price appreciations.

The Selling Process: Days on Market and Sale Ratios

The days on market until sale have shown a fascinating shift, with properties now taking slightly longer to sell. However, the average ask to sell ratio presents a compelling narrative of market efficiency and negotiation dynamics, standing at 0.952 in 2024. This minor adjustment reflects a balanced negotiation environment between buyers and sellers, ensuring fair market value transactions.

Implications for Buyers and Sellers

For sellers, the current market presents an opportune moment, with property values appreciating significantly. However, it’s crucial to price properties competitively, considering the slight increase in days on market. Buyers, while the market appears challenging due to rising prices, the slight increase in negotiation room and the robust year-over-year growth in property values indicate a strong investment potential in Parkland County.

Below Graphs Are Interactive

Parkland County Acreage Listings

95 New listings came to market in Parkland for the month, this is down from 102 in March of 2023.

Parkland County Acreage Average List Price

Average list price for acreages for March was $750.4k and increase of 27% from same time last year.

Parkland County Acreage Sales

40 acreages sold in Parkland during the month, a decrease of 4 acreages from last March.

Parkland County Acreage Average Sale Price

Acreages sold at an increase of 43% over last year’s price of $509.1k, averaging out to $730k.

Parkland County Acreage Days on Market

Acreages were on MLS® an average of 145 days before sale.

Parkland County’s acreage sales in 2024 showcases a dynamic interplay of factors, with a strong seller’s market emerging. Despite the decreased number of sold properties in March, the overall increase in sales, coupled with significant price appreciations, underscores a healthy and growing market. Whether you’re a buyer looking to invest or a seller aiming to capitalize on your property, understanding these trends is crucial for making informed decisions in this vibrant real estate landscape.

If you would like more information on buying and selling in Parkland County CONTACT CHRIS REID

Parkland County Website

9 April 2024

Edmonton Real Estate Statistics – Home Sales March 2024

by Christina Reid

Edmonton real estate market statistics including home sales, listings, average sales price and days on market. Chris Reid Edmonton Realtor

Edmonton Real Estate Statistics – March 2024

The Edmonton real estate statistics have demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth through the early months of 2024. Trends that potential buyers, sellers, and investors should closely monitor. With a significant increase in sold properties and steady rise in selling prices, the Edmonton market offers a promising outlook.

Surge in Sold Properties

Edmonton’s market shows a staggering 40.11% increase in sold properties. 1.79K units sold during the month of March. Proof of a thriving market, the upward trajectory was 47.4% from the previous year’s performance. The growth in property sales reflects a market driven by strong demand and confidence among buyers and sellers.

Ascending Average Selling Prices

The average selling price of properties in Edmonton has seen an encouraging upswing. March 2024 reported an average sales price of $395K, marking an 8.48% increase from March 2023. The year-to-date figures for 2024 further highlight the market’s strength. The average selling price of $386K was an 8.60% increase from the previous year. These figures suggest a healthy appreciation in property values. There’s lucrative opportunities for sellers and a promising, though competitive, landscape for buyers in Edmonton.

Edmonton Market Efficiency and Listings

In addition to the increase in sold properties and selling prices, the Edmonton real estate market is busy. The average days on market are down, indicating a fast paced market. Properties are moving quickly from listing to sale. This is further evidenced by the ask-to-sell ratio, showing pricing strategies are aligned with buyer expectations.

Detailed numbers below.

Below Graphs Are Interactive.

Edmonton New MLS® Listings

The Edmonton real estate market saw a total of 2.67k new listings come on MLS® during March. This is an increase of 9.4% from March of last year.

Average List Price Edmonton Real Estate Market

The average asking prices of homes in Edmonton has increased over last year to $479k. This is up from 441.2k in March of 2023.

Home Sales In The Edmonton Real Estate Market

1.8K homes sold during the month, an increase of 40% from last year same time.

Edmonton Average Home Sale Price

The average home sold at $395k, up $31k from March 2023.

Edmonton Real Estate Market -Average Days

Homes in Edmonton were on MLS® an average of 61 days before sale.

Looking to buy or sell in Edmonton? CONTACT CHRIS REID

City of Edmonton Website

9 April 2024

Spruce Grove Real Estate Market Statistics March 2024

by Christina Reid

Spruce Grove Real Estate Market Statistics. Home Sales, Average Sales Price. Chris Reid Spruce Grove Realtor.

Spruce Grove Real Estate Market Statistics – March 2024

The Spruce Grove real estate market has shown remarkable growth and resilience throughout the early months of 2024. This signals a vibrant and dynamic housing environment for both sellers and buyers.

Starting with sold properties, Spruce Grove has witnessed a significant increase in market activity. In March 2024 alone, the number of properties sold jumped to 110, marking a 39.24% increase compared to March 2023. The year-to-date (YTD) figures are equally impressive, with 252 properties sold, up by 38.46% from the same period last year. This uptick in sales volume underscores the growing demand and buyer confidence in the local real estate market.

Turning our attention to the average asking price, there’s a notable rise that reflects the market’s health. The average sale price in March 2024 soared to $417K, a robust 17.31% increase from the previous year. The YTD average sale price also grew to $399K, up by 7.30% from 2023, demonstrating a consistent upward trend in property values. These figures are bolstered by an encouraging average ask to sell ratio of 0.992 in 2024, a slight improvement from 0.979 in 2023, indicating that properties are selling closer to their asking prices.

Furthermore, the monthly sales price data reveals a continuous growth pattern in the average selling price, with a notable increase to $417K in March 2024. This represents a significant 17.31% rise year-over-year and highlights the positive momentum in Spruce Grove.

Another critical metric, the days on market until sale, has seen a positive shift with properties now selling faster. The average days on market decreased to 71 in 2024, from 77 in 2023, a -7.79% change. This faster turnover rate is a clear indicator of a competitive market where well-priced homes are quickly attracting buyers.

More detailed information below

The below graphs are interactive

New MLS® Listing Count

163 new listings came on to MLS® in Spruce Grove during March 2024. That’s an increase from 132 in March of 2023.

Average Listing Price

The average listing price of homes in March was $465k. This is an increase of 12.85% over last year March.

Home Sales Numbers

Home sales in Spruce Grove were up to 110 during the month. This is an increase of 39.24% over March 2023

Average Home Sale Price

Home prices in Spruce Grove were up significantly during the month. With homes selling at an average of $416.5k, up from $355.1k last March.

Average Days on MLS®

Homes in Spruce Grove were on MLS® an average of 68 days before sale.

The Spruce Grove real estate market in 2024 showcases strong growth, increased buyer interest, and a healthy uptick in property values. Whether you’re considering buying, selling, or simply keeping an eye on the market, these statistics offer valuable insights into the local real estate dynamics.

For more information on buying or selling in Spruce Grove CONTACT CHRIS REID

City of Spruce Grove Website

9 April 2024

Stony Plain Real Estate Statistics- March 2024

by Christina Reid

Stony Plain Real Estate Statistics

Stony Plain Real Estate Market Statistics Update: A Look at 2024 So Far

The Stony Plain real estate statistics for the month presents an intriguing landscape for buyers, sellers, and investors. With the year unfolding, significant changes and trends are becoming apparent in the local housing market dynamics. Here’s an in-depth analysis based on the latest data, highlighting the year-to-date (YTD) statistics compared to the previous year.

Sold Properties: A Surge in Sales Volume for Stony Plain

One of the most notable trends this year has been the increase in the number of properties sold. As of YTD 2024, Stony Plain witnessed a commendable 18.48% rise in sold properties. 109 sales were recorded, compared to 92 in the same period of 2023. This uptick indicates a growing demand in the local real estate market. Specifically, in March 2024, there were 47 properties sold, marking a 9.30% increase from March 2023, which only saw 40 sales. This reflects an active market, inviting for both potential homeowners and real estate investors.

Pricing Trends in Stony Plain: The Ups and Downs

In terms of pricing, the landscape shows a mix of fluctuations that are critical for market stakeholders to understand. New listings have seen a significant dip of 35.21%, and listing prices up by 23.78%.

Stony Plain Market Dynamics: Days on Market and Sale-to-List Ratio

Another critical aspect to consider is the time properties spend on the market and the average ask-to-sell ratio. The days on the market until sale have slightly decreased by 12.36% YTD, indicating a quicker turnover and a more dynamic market environment. Concurrently, the average ask-to-sell ratio has shown a slight improvement, moving from 0.973 in 2023 to 0.986 in YTD 2024. This subtle change suggests that properties are selling closer to their asking prices.

Stony Plain Real Estate Market numbers below…

Below Graphs Are Interactive

Stony Plain Real Estate – New MLS® Listings

A total of 46 homes came to market in the month of March, a decrease or 35% from 71 last March.

Stony Plain Average Listing Price

The average ask price of homes was up 23.78% to $435k. In march of 2023 the average list price of homes was $351.7k.

Stony Plain Home Sales

Home sales were up by 9.3% totalling 47 for the month. 43 homes sold on Stony Plain during March of 2023.

Stony Plain Real Estate Market- Average Home Sale Price

The average sale price of a home in Stony Plain was relatively flat to last year a 1% decrease to $400.4k.

Stony Plain Average Days on Market

Homes in Stony Plain were on MLS® an average of 80 days prior to sale.

As we analyze the Stony Plain real estate market, it’s evident that 2024 is shaping up to be a year of growth and recovery. The increase in sales volume, coupled with the rising average sale prices, suggests a healthy market condition favorable to sellers. For buyers, the decrease in average asking prices for new listings offers opportunities to enter the market at more accessible price points.

The real estate market is ever-evolving, and staying informed about these trends is crucial for making educated decisions. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or invest in Stony Plain, understanding these dynamics can provide a significant advantage. As the year progresses, it will be interesting to see how these trends develop and what new patterns emerge in this vibrant community.

Data provided by the REALTORS® Association of Edmonton and subject to change. Always consult with a real estate professional for the most current market information.

If you are considering buying or selling a home in Stony Plain or just want more information on the Stony Plain real estate market, CONTACT ME HERE.

Town of Stony Plain Website

Strathcona County Real Estate Market Statistics • 8 April 2024

Rural Strathcona County Real Estate Market – Acreage Sales Statistics – March 2024

by Christina Reid

Rural Strathcona Country Real Estate Market- Sales Statistics March 2024

Strathcona County real estate market reports for listings, sales and days on market.

Rural Strathcona County has experienced a significant transformation in its acreage sales market over the past year. In the first quarter of 2024, there was a remarkable increase in sold properties, with 40 sales marking a 60% increase year-to-date (YTD), and a total of 77 sales showing an 83.33% increase compared to the same period in 2023. This surge reflects a robust demand for rural living spaces.

The average sale price in March 2024 slightly declined by 6.50% from the previous year to $735K. Similarly, the monthly sales price saw a decrease of 34.67% YTD. The average days on the market until sale and the average ask-to-sell ratio also experienced slight adjustments, indicating a slight cooling in market urgency and negotiation leverage. Continue below to March statistics.

Bar graphs below are interactive

Strathcona County -Acreage Listings

60 new listings came to market in March 2024 and increase of 11% over March 2023.

Strathcona County – Average Acreage List Price

The average asking price of the new listings was $854k, up from $838.5k in March of last year.

Strathcona County –Acreage Sales

40 properties sold within the month of March. This is up 60% from last March where we saw 25 sales in Strathcona County.

Strathcona County Real Estate Market –Acreage Average Sales Price

The average sales price of acreage in Rural Strathcona County was $734.9k. This is down 6.5% from last years average sales price of $786k.

Strathcona County Acreage Average Days on Market

The average days on market was 66 before homes sold in Strathcona County.

Despite these fluctuations, the overall growth in sales volume and consistent sale prices signal a healthy and evolving market for Rural Strathcona County. This trend suggests an increasing attraction towards the rural lifestyle, offering opportunities for both buyers and sellers in this unique market.

Are you considering buying or selling or just interested in more information on the real estate market in Strathcona County? CONTACT ME HERE

Strathcona County Website

Uncategorized • 22 March 2024

Renting in Edmonton? Use a REALTOR®

by Christina Reid

Renting in Edmonton? Use a REALTOR®
Navigating the rental market can be a daunting task, especially in competitive housing markets. Using a Realtor to find your next rental property can offer significant advantages. Here are some key benefits of enlisting the help of a real estate professional:
* Expert Guidance: A Realtor can provide invaluable insights into the local market, helping you find properties that meet your specific needs and budget. They are knowledgeable about the areas you’re interested in and can advise on the pros and cons of different neighbourhoods .
* Access to More Listings: Realtors have access to the most comprehensive and up-to-date rental listings, some of which may not be advertised publicly. This access can give you a competitive edge in finding your ideal home .
* Time Savings: Searching for the right rental can be time-consuming. A Realtor can save you time by handling the search process, scheduling viewings, and filtering out properties that don’t meet your criteria .
* Negotiation Skills: Realtors are experienced negotiators. They can help you secure a better deal, ensuring you pay a fair price for your rental property .
* Lease Agreement Assistance: Understanding the terms of a lease agreement can be challenging. Your Realtor can walk you through the leasing agreement, explaining the terms and conditions to ensure you know exactly what you’re agreeing to .
* Avoid Scams: With a Realtor, the risk of falling for a scam is significantly reduced. They ensure the legitimacy of listings and landlords, protecting you from potential fraud .
In conclusion, while it’s possible to find a rental on your own, the benefits of using a Realtor can make the process smoother, faster, and more secure.
🌐 Sources
* realtor.ca – The Benefits of Using a REALTOR® When Looking to Rent
* zoocasa.com – Using a Realtor to Help You Find a Rental in a Competitive
* rentspree.com – How Realtors Can Help You Find Rentals
* realtor.ca – The Ultimate Guide to Renting: Your Questions Answered
* thecontentpanel.com – Our Ultimate List Of 135 Real Estate Blog Topic Ideas
* realestate.usnews.com – Should You Use a Real Estate Agent to Find A Rental?

Edmonton New Home Builders - Trends and Market Updates • 20 March 2024

BUILT GREEN® Homes

by Christina Reid

What is BUILT GREEN®?

In Alberta, the Built Green® certification stands out as a voluntary program aimed at promoting environmentally friendly home construction. This program sets a comprehensive range of building standards, focusing on creating homes that are not only sustainable but also provide healthier living environments for residents. The certification touches on various aspects of construction, from the choice of materials and methods to energy efficiency and resource conservation.

For builders, embracing Built Green® standards means committing to practices that go beyond the conventional building requirements, focusing on sustainability and environmental stewardship. Homes certified under this program integrate features that are designed to reduce their environmental impact significantly. These include energy-efficient appliances, water-saving fixtures, and materials that are sourced responsibly. Additionally, Built Green® homes incorporate the EnerGuide label through Natural Resources Canada, ensuring that they meet specific energy performance criteria.

The benefits of Built Green® certification are manifold, offering advantages not just for the environment but also for homeowners. These homes are designed to provide a healthier living space, potentially lower utility bills due to their energy efficiency, and even rebates that acknowledge their reduced environmental footprint. For those in Alberta looking to build or purchase a new home, considering a Built Green® certified property could mean investing in a future that values sustainability, comfort, and environmental responsibility.

Why Build BUILT GREEN®?

Building Built Green is increasingly important for several compelling reasons. Firstly, it reassures homeowners and buyers about the quality and sustainability of their investment, highlighting a commitment to energy efficiency, healthier living environments, responsible building practices, and more. Built Green Canada offers practical and affordable methods for builders, renovators, restorers, and developers to achieve continuous improvements in their projects, fostering a culture of sustainability within the construction industry .

Moreover, homeowners are becoming more environmentally conscious, prioritizing green initiatives in their renovations and new builds to reduce water consumption, annual heating costs, and their overall carbon footprint . Built Green Canada is a national, non-profit organization driven by the industry to support builders interested in responsible sustainability practices, ensuring that green building becomes a standard rather than an exception.

The program is voluntary, setting building standards to create environmentally friendly homes that offer long-term benefits to both the environment and the homeowners through energy savings and improved indoor air quality . It also promotes a network of home builders committed to producing smarter, more responsible, and healthier homes for future generations.

BUILT GREEN® Rebates

Built Green Canada offers enticing rebates and financial incentives to promote sustainable housing. For homeowners and buyers interested in environmentally responsible living, these rebates can make a significant difference. Single-family new homes that achieve BUILT GREEN® certification at the Gold, Platinum, and Net Zero+ levels are eligible for a partial mortgage loan insurance premium refund of 25% . This initiative is available in select markets across the country and underscores the financial benefits of investing in energy-efficient, sustainable homes .

Moreover, specific communities and local governments have recognized the value of sustainable building practices by offering additional rebates. For example, the City of Lethbridge offers a rebate of $2,500 for purchasing a BUILT GREEN® Silver certified home and $3,500 for a Gold certified home . These incentives not only lower the initial financial barriers for homeowners but also encourage builders and developers to adopt sustainable practices.

In addition to these rebates, the Canada Greener Homes Grant provides access to rebates for a wide range of equipment and retrofitting measures aimed at improving home energy efficiency . These programs collectively aim to foster a more sustainable building sector, reduce environmental impacts, and offer financial benefits to homeowners who prioritize green building standards.

Requirements for BUILT GREEN®

The requirements for achieving Built Green® certification focus on various sustainable building practices and are categorized into different tiers, including Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. Specifically, for reaching the Gold tier, a project must accumulate a minimum of 35 points. These points can be earned through a variety of measures that contribute to the sustainability and energy efficiency of the home. Areas where points can be earned include energy efficiency, materials and methods used in construction, indoor air quality, and the overall environmental impact of the build. The program emphasizes the importance of reducing a home’s energy consumption, using sustainable building materials, and minimizing the environmental footprint of construction activities.

Built Green® also acknowledges projects that achieve net-zero energy status (where the home produces as much energy as it consumes) by offering recognition for this significant achievement, particularly for projects at the Gold or Platinum levels . This certification is not only a testament to the home’s sustainable design and construction but also offers proven savings in resources, water, energy, and money over time.

The movement towards built green homes represents a significant and essential step towards sustainable living and environmental responsibility. As demonstrated by various studies and initiatives, the advantages of green building extend far beyond energy savings and reduced environmental impact. Green homes contribute to more sustainable economies by lowering energy consumption, reducing costs, and even creating jobs in green construction fields . They embody a long-term dedication to the principles of natural and sustainable living, offering countless benefits that include but are not limited to health, environmental, and financial advantages.

🌐 Sources