Gentrification

Understand gentrification in Canadian real estate — how urban renewal impacts neighbourhood value, housing access, and community dynamics.

Gentrification

June 09, 2025


What is Gentrification?

Gentrification is the process by which a traditionally lower-income neighbourhood undergoes revitalization and attracts higher-income residents, often leading to increased property values and the displacement of long-standing residents.

Why Gentrification Matters in Real Estate

In Canadian urban real estate, gentrification can reshape neighbourhood demographics, spur investment, and drive up housing costs.



Indicators of gentrification include:
  • New developments and amenities (cafés, grocery stores)
  • Influx of higher-income homeowners and renters
  • Rising home prices and rent levels
  • Redevelopment of aging housing stock



While gentrification can improve safety and infrastructure, it may also cause affordability issues and displace vulnerable communities.



Understanding gentrification helps buyers, investors, and policymakers weigh both market potential and social implications.

Example of Gentrification in Action

A once-industrial area near the city centre sees an influx of condo developments, creative businesses, and younger professionals, triggering gentrification.

Key Takeaways

  • Raises property values and investment interest
  • Can displace long-term, lower-income residents
  • Often follows public infrastructure improvements
  • Alters neighbourhood demographics and culture
  • Balances opportunity with equity concerns

Related Terms

Additional Terms

Public Realm Improvements

Public realm improvements are enhancements to public spaces such as sidewalks, parks, plazas, and streetscapes, often funded or contributed by. more

Mortgagee in Possession

A mortgagee in possession is a lender who takes control of a property after borrower default, but before foreclosure or power of sale. The lender. more

Lease Surrender Agreement

A lease surrender agreement is a negotiated contract between a landlord and tenant that ends a lease before its scheduled expiration. Terms may. more

Green Infrastructure

Green infrastructure refers to natural or engineered systems that manage stormwater, reduce heat, and improve sustainability in developments.. more

Escrow Holdback

An escrow holdback is a portion of funds withheld at closing and held in escrow until specific conditions are met, such as completion of repairs,. more

Underused Housing Tax

The Underused Housing Tax (UHT) is a federal annual 1% tax on the value of vacant or underused residential property owned by non-resident,. more

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