Housing Supply

Understand housing supply in Canadian real estate — how it's shaped, why shortages happen, and what it means for affordability and planning.

Housing Supply

June 09, 2025


What is Housing Supply?

Housing supply refers to the total number of homes — both for sale and under construction — available to meet the housing needs of a population in a specific area.

Why Housing Supply Matters in Real Estate

In Canadian housing policy and real estate, the balance between housing supply and demand determines affordability, vacancy rates, and development trends.



Factors influencing housing supply:
  • New home construction and zoning approvals
  • Demolition or redevelopment projects
  • Government incentives or regulations
  • Availability of land and infrastructure



A shortage in housing supply contributes to affordability crises in cities like Toronto and Vancouver, prompting new municipal and federal strategies.



Understanding housing supply dynamics is vital for real estate professionals, policymakers, and planners focused on equitable growth.

Example of Housing Supply in Action

To address housing supply shortages, the city announced a policy to fast-track approvals for multi-unit residential developments.

Key Takeaways

  • Reflects total homes available and being built
  • Affects affordability and rental vacancy
  • Influenced by planning and regulation
  • Shortages drive market pressure
  • Central to housing policy debates

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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