09/23/2026
Canada Fee Cuts Could Unlock Supply
Development fees have always been a significant factor in the cost of new homes here in Canada—something I’ve witnessed first-hand throughout my 45 years in Vancouver real estate. A recent national housing agency study found that reducing these fees could make nearly 14% more residential projects viable, with cities like Toronto and Vancouver standing to gain the most. For example, removing these charges could boost the number of feasible projects by roughly 10%, and Toronto might meet half of its stated housing supply goals this way. When you compare fee structures, Calgary’s charges range from about $4,000 for a one-bedroom high-rise to $9,000 for a detached home—far less than Vancouver’s $20,000 to $33,000 for similar units. Of course, these development fees support essential infrastructure—roads, sewers, and city administration—so finding the right balance is important. Still, lowering fees for larger, family-sized homes could be a step toward making new construction more competitive, especially as these units often exceed the price of comparable resale homes. Staying current on these ever-evolving policies is just part of my commitment to keeping you informed about the complexities of Vancouver’s housing market.