Housing and construction news covering home building, real estate development, construction industry, and housing market trends.
Canada's housing market momentum stalled as seasonally adjusted home sales declined 0.7% in August, totaling 37,504 units. While new listings rose 3.3%, the national average sale price increased 0.6% year-over-year to $668,219. The Canadian Real Estate Association cites rising inflation risks and potential interest rate hikes as key economic headwinds.
The Times of India argues that Maharashtra's Real Estate Regulatory Authority frequently grants developers extensions without ensuring completion. Analyzing MahaRERA data, the article contends that repeated delays are common, leaving buyers in limbo while regulators approve further time rather than enforcing strict deadlines.
Microsoft President Brad Smith stated that streamlining permitting processes is the most critical factor for accelerating new housing construction. His remarks came amid ongoing efforts by Puget Sound leaders to implement economic reforms designed to resolve local housing supply constraints.
The Municipal Corporation of Delhi is conducting a citywide survey of paying guest accommodations following a deadly building collapse that killed seven people. An MCD survey reveals only 1.2% of Delhi's paying guest accommodations have fire safety NOCs, with less than 30% having sanctioned building plans.
Hong Kong has started land clearance for its massive Northern Metropolis project, valued at over $28 billion. A consortium recently secured the first major land deal to build housing and logistics hubs, aiming to house millions and boost GDP despite concerns over costs and displacement.
Global News contends that restrictive covenants and neighborhood opposition are complicating Edmonton’s infill development strategy. The article highlights cases where developers or agents purchase lots slated for multi-unit builds to construct single-family homes, reflecting broader tensions between provincial housing goals and local community concerns.
The Taipei Times argues that Taiwan's apartment buildings lack effective floodgate protocols due to fragmented decision-making authority among owners and management committees. The commentary contends that building bylaws often fail to empower managers to act during emergencies, leaving them vulnerable to liability from conflicting resident demands.
This article discusses changes in suicide prevention efforts within the construction industry, highlighting the personal story of a company executive and the growth of Construction Suicide Prevention Week. It argues that open discussion of mental health struggles reduces stigma and promotes industry-wide change.
California regulators filed a court request on Sept. 8 to reinstate $50,000-a-month penalties against Huntington Beach for failing to implement required zoning changes. The city had adopted a new housing element in June but state officials determined it lacked necessary enforcement mechanisms. Previous orders already mandated $170,000 in back penalties.
The article explains that Peterborough City Council's local plan is under review after Conservative councillors called in the decision. They challenge the removal of industrial land allocations and question the impact on services for proposed housing developments near the East of England Showground.