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Infill Development

Learn about infill development in Canadian real estate — what it is, its benefits, and how it supports sustainable urban growth.

Infill Development

July 29, 2025


What is Infill Development?

Infill development is the process of building new housing, commercial buildings, or amenities on vacant or underutilized land within existing urban areas.

Why Infill Development Matters in Real Estate

In Canadian urban planning, infill development supports smart growth by making efficient use of existing infrastructure and reducing urban sprawl.



Key benefits:
  • Revitalizes older neighbourhoods
  • Supports transit-oriented communities
  • Reduces pressure on agricultural or natural lands



Understanding infill development helps municipalities, developers, and residents balance growth and community character.

Example of Infill Development in Action

The city encouraged infill development by offering incentives for building new townhouses on a former industrial site.

Key Takeaways

  • Builds on vacant or underused urban land
  • Promotes efficient infrastructure use
  • Helps revitalize established areas
  • Reduces urban sprawl
  • Requires careful community consultation

Related Terms

Additional Terms

Recourse Loan

A recourse loan is a type of loan where the lender can pursue the borrower’s personal assets, beyond the collateral, in the event of default.. more

Pari Passu

A pari passu clause is a contractual provision ensuring that multiple creditors share equally in repayment priority from the borrower’s assets.. more

Non-Recourse Loan

A non-recourse loan is a type of loan where the lender’s only remedy in case of default is to seize the collateral property; the borrower is not. more

Net Operating Income

Net operating income (NOI) is the total income generated by a property after operating expenses are deducted but before taxes and financing costs.. more

Mechanic's Lien

A mechanic’s lien is a legal claim by a contractor, subcontractor, or supplier for unpaid work or materials provided for a property.. more

Lis Pendens

Lis pendens is a legal notice filed in the land registry indicating that a property is subject to ongoing litigation that may affect its title.. more

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