If you’ve been following BC’s housing crisis, you’ve likely heard every side of the debate. Some blame developers for prioritizing profit over affordability. Others argue that municipalities are slowing down approvals. Federal policies are under scrutiny for stimulating demand without addressing supply, while rising interest rates continue to push homeownership out of reach. Meanwhile, homebuyers struggle to enter the market, investors face uncertainty, and home builders navigate rising costs and regulatory hurdles.
At ResponsibleLiving, we see firsthand how these pressures play out in real communities. The question isn’t just who’s to blame—it’s how we move forward with real solutions that address affordability while keeping housing development viable.
A Conversation Worth Tuning Into
One of the most insightful discussions on this topic recently took place on Conversations Live, hosted by Stuart McNish. The Real Estate Report panel brought together some of BC’s top real estate voices, including:
- Neil Chrystal, CEO of Polygon Homes Ltd.
- Beau Jarvis, President and CEO of Wesgroup Properties
- Bob Rennie, Founder and Executive Director of Rennie
- Michael Geller, President of The Geller Group
- Mike Hurley, Mayor of the City of Burnaby
Together, they tackled the complexities shaping affordability, development, and investment in BC. They discussed the realities of land availability, policy roadblocks, and the need for innovative solutions.
The Role of Alternative Housing Models
While policy changes and economic factors shape much of the housing landscape, alternative housing models—like co-living—are an immediate and practical way to ease affordability pressures. At ResponsibleLiving, we advocate for solutions that foster both affordability and community, such as our Mamquam House project in Squamish. By designing spaces that encourage shared resources and social connection, we believe we can provide more affordable living options while strengthening neighbourhoods.
Moving Forward: A Collective Responsibility
Solving BC’s housing crisis isn’t about choosing sides; it’s about collaboration between policymakers, developers, investors, and communities. We need a balance between affordability and sustainable development—where innovative housing solutions can be scaled, municipalities can streamline approvals, and long-term housing stability is prioritized.
The insights shared in the Conversations Live discussion underscore the importance of open dialogue and proactive solutions. As we continue to push for responsible, community-centered housing, we encourage everyone—homebuyers, investors, policymakers, and residents—to be part of the conversation.
What do you think? How do we balance affordability, investment, and responsible development in BC’s housing future?
