Consumer Proposal
Understand consumer proposals in Canada — what they are, how they help manage debt, and how they protect assets like homes.

July 11, 2025
What is a Consumer Proposal?
A consumer proposal is a formal, legally binding agreement in Canada between an individual and their creditors to repay a portion of their debt over time, as an alternative to bankruptcy.
Why Consumer Proposals Matter in Real Estate
In Canadian real estate and finance, consumer proposals can help homeowners avoid bankruptcy and retain property while addressing debt.
Key characteristics:
- Filed through a licensed insolvency trustee
- Stops collection actions and legal proceedings
- Allows restructuring of unsecured debt
- Requires creditor and court approval
Understanding consumer proposals helps homeowners, lenders, and buyers assess credit risk and protect assets.
Example of a Consumer Proposal in Action
The homeowner filed a consumer proposal to manage unsecured debt while keeping their home and avoiding bankruptcy.
Key Takeaways
- Alternative to personal bankruptcy
- Allows structured debt repayment
- Stops legal actions and collections
- Protects some assets like homes
- Requires trustee and creditor agreement


(Avison Young)






The Mason Suite Interior (Infinity Properties)
The Mason Suite Interior (Infinity Properties)
Rail District aerial (Infinity Properties)
Versant (Infinity Properties)


Narrow Fourplex (City of Toronto)
Wide Sixplex - Side View (City of Toronto)
Centre Block and its surrounding context. (Stantec-Revery, SCDC)
The 12-storey Phase One of Centre Block. (Stantec-Revery, SCDC)
The 12-storey Phase One of Centre Block. (Stantec-Revery, SCDC)