Calgary AB – The Notley Government’s announcement of a plan to work with cities and municipalities in the province to ensure that more affordable housing units are built is being met with approval by the Alberta Real Estate Association (AREA) and its 10,000 REALTOR® members across the province. AREA recognizes the value in building more affordable units, as opposed to implementing rent controls.
While talk of rent control measures came up during election campaign season, the government, including Municipal Affairs Minister Deron Bilous, insist that in the current market, where rent levels have been plateauing, it makes good sense to put resources into making more affordable units available, increasing supply and, in turn, lowering rent.
Ian Burns, AREA’s Chief Executive Officer says, “AREA encourages the government to consider additional measures that address affordable home ownership.”
We recognize the value of affordable ownership, knowing that affordable ownership and a secure home provide a stable foundation from which individuals, families, communities and Albertans can prosper. Allowing households to accumulate equity is the basis for a number of positive social, economic, family and civic outcomes.
AREA welcomes the opportunity to consult with Minister Bilous and Service Alberta on affordable home ownership initiatives. For more information from AREA government relations, email firstname.lastname@example.org or call 1.800.661.0231.