A provincial leader proposed taxing unsold BC condos left empty for >1 yr, arguing the move would improve affordability if the party returned to power.
The proposed levy would have started near ~2% and climbed ~1% yearly for continued vacancies, with the campaign saying it could unlock ~5K condos.
A data firm estimated thousands of unsold, empty new units across Metro Vancouver were worth $4.4B, a figure used to support the affordability case.
Reaction was mixed: one expert questioned whether the measure would change behavior or raise revenue, while an industry economist warned about financially stressed developers.
The same platform also proposed raising BC's speculation and vacancy tax to ~2% for domestic owners and ~5% for foreign owners in eligible areas.
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British Columbia Targets Empty Unsold Condos
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Canada Tax Changes for New Home Buyers: What to Know About the 2026 GST New Housing Rebate
A temporary GST new housing rebate for eligible first-time home buyers was enacted in March 2026, with eligibility depending on purchase price, buyer circumstances, and other conditions. Buyers should confirm rebate details with builders or tax professionals before signing contracts. The rebate does not replace affordability or financing analysis. Investors should separate personal housing relief from investment decisions and consider overall financial outcomes. Maintaining clear records and reviewing obligations regularly is essential.
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Saving for a First Home? The FHSA May Beat Your TFSA
The First Home Savings Account (FHSA) offers tax-deductible contributions and tax-free withdrawals for first-time homebuyers, with an $8,000 annual and $40,000 lifetime limit. Unused FHSA funds can transfer to an RRSP tax-deferred. The Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) provides greater long-term flexibility for tax-free growth. FHSA suits down payment savings, while TFSA supports ongoing financial goals.
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First-Time Home Buyers and the GST Rebate: The New-Home Rules Buyers Must Understand
Federal legislation effective March 2026 allows GST relief for first-time home buyers on qualifying new homes priced up to $1.5 million, with full exemption up to $1 million. Eligibility depends on purchase date, home use, and documentation. Buyers must verify rules carefully, keep detailed records, and not assume all properties qualify. Taxpayers should confirm current rules before filing or financial decisions, as tax impacts vary by individual circumstances.
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Is the down payment an outdated test for prospective B.C. homebuyers?
A B.C. credit union suggests that relying solely on a down payment to qualify for homeownership is outdated. While important, a down payment is just one factor; a holistic view of finances and rent management is crucial. Many renters aim to own homes but have limited savings. Choosing a community that fits lifestyle and career goals is vital. Experts recommend open, honest financial discussions to plan for homeownership, even if current finances seem insufficient.
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Buying Your First Home? The $8,000 FHSA Deduction Most Renters Miss
An eligible renter can contribute up to $8,000 annually to a First Home Savings Account (FHSA), saving up to $2,400 in taxes at a 30% rate. The tax deduction boosts home savings but requires meeting residency, age, and first-time buyer criteria. Investments in stable assets like cash or GICs are advised for near-term home purchases to protect the down payment, rather than relying on dividend-paying stocks that risk market declines.
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Canada’s MLS® HPI Tracks Home Price Trends
For Canada, a home price index helps gauge home prices and trends in local neighborhoods, giving REALTORS® a clearer read on shifting market conditions.
Unlike avg. or median prices, the index tracks how buyers value housing features, aiming for steadier comparisons that better reflect underlying price trends.
The approach supports apples-to-apples price comparisons, helping REALTORS® explain values more accurately and giving clients clearer market context for informed home decisions.
Each month, the index uses >20 yr of listing system data and statistical models to define a typical home from sold property features.
Those benchmark homes are then tracked across neighborhoods and house types, giving REALTORS® another tool to spot trends and guide client conversations. -
Langley – Most Expensive Homes of September 2026
Langley — Most Expensive homes for September 2026.
Listings (sorted by price):
1. Listing R3122113 — $17,500,000
2. Listing R3166058 — $13,750,000
3. Listing R3084380 — $10,500,000
4. Listing R3091988 — $10,000,000
5. Listing R2898008 — $9,895,000
6. Listing R3118623 — $9,250,000
7. Listing R3157457 — $9,000,000
8. Listing R3127116 — $8,897,000
9. Listing R3128995 — $8,200,000
10. Listing R3115937 — $7,999,900
11. Listing R3054321 — $7,950,000
12. Listing R3160260 — $7,890,000
13. Listing R3085241 — $7,888,800
14. Listing R3169672 — $7,800,000
15. Listing R3076213 — $7,280,000 -
10 Essential Tips for First-Time Homebuyers in Canada
First-time homebuyers in Canada should assess their finances, set a realistic budget including all costs, and save for a down payment to avoid mortgage insurance. Getting mortgage pre-approval clarifies borrowing limits and locks interest rates. Research the market thoroughly and consider first-time buyer incentives. A home inspection is essential, and be prepared for closing costs. Avoid overextending budgets, skipping pre-approval, ignoring hidden costs, and making emotional decisions.
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Happy Halloween
Halloween falls on October 31 because the ancient Gaelic festival of Samhain, considered the earliest known root of Halloween, occurred on this day.
In the eighth century, Pope Gregory III designated November 1 as a time to praise all saints.
Soon, All Saints' Day incorporated some traditions of Samhain and the evening before was known as All Hallows Eve, and later Halloween.
Over time, Halloween evolved into a day of activities like trick-or-treating, carving jack-o-lanterns, festive gatherings, donning costumes and eating treats.
Today’s the day to eat candies and sweets to your heart’s content! Happy Halloween!
