Announcements

GTA Home Sales Post Strongest July Since 2021
TRREB reported 6,100 home sales across the GTA in July, marking a 10.9% increase over the same month last year and the highest July total since 2021. New listings rose by 5.7% year-over-year to 17,613, although sales outpaced listings, resulting in a modest tightening of market conditions. While the average selling price fell 5.5% year-over-year to $1.05 million, TRREB points to improved affordability and lower borrowing costs as key drivers of demand, with further interest rate cuts expected to spur additional activity.

Toronto Launches Volunteer Recruitment for FIFA World Cup 2026
The City of Toronto has opened registration for more than 3,000 volunteer positions to support its role as a Host City for the FIFA World Cup 2026. Volunteers will assist with fan experiences, accessibility services, media operations, and event logistics for the six matches scheduled in Toronto, including Canada’s home opener on June 12, 2026. The program, open to residents 18 and older, offers a chance to gain experience and showcase the city’s diversity.

Toronto’s New Renovictions By-law Took Effect July 31
Starting July 31, landlords in Toronto must obtain a Rental Renovation Licence before beginning renovations that require tenants to vacate, under the City’s new Renovictions By-law. The regulations aim to prevent bad-faith evictions, preserve affordable rental housing, and establish a transparent process with requirements for tenant notification, temporary accommodation, or rent-gap compensation. An online public registry will allow tenants to confirm licences, while enforcement measures and support services are available through the Toronto Tenant Support Program.

Mississauga’s First Pre-Approved Garden Suite Completed
Mississauga has completed its first backyard garden suite using the City’s free pre-approved one-bedroom plan, offering a streamlined path for homeowners to add self-contained living units. The compact suite includes a kitchen, living area, bathroom, bedroom, and laundry, with customizable finishes that integrate into the existing property. As part of the City’s gentle density strategy, the program aims to expand housing options for multi-generational living or rental income while simplifying the permitting process.

Peel Region Cuts Development Charges to Spur Housing Construction
Peel Regional Council has voted to reduce residential development charges by 50% from January 2025 through November 2026, a move expected to significantly improve the financial feasibility of new housing projects. The Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD) praised the decision, noting it directly addresses cost pressures that have slowed housing starts across the GTA. Officials say the reduction could help unlock stalled projects and encourage purpose-built rental construction.

GTA New Home Sales Remain Far Below Historical Norms
June saw just 510 new home sales across the GTA, up from May’s total but still 82% below the 10-year average of 2,801, according to data from BILD and Altus Group. The prolonged slowdown, which industry leaders call the worst on record, is being driven by high interest rates, elevated development costs, and broader economic uncertainty. With inventory reaching a record 22,254 units and confidence remaining low, BILD is urging all levels of government to take immediate action through tax relief and further reductions in development charges to stabilize the market.

National Average Asking Rents See Largest Drop of 2025
The national average asking rent fell 3.6% year-over-year in July to $2,121, marking the 10th consecutive month of annual declines, according to Rentals.ca and Urbanation. Purpose-built apartment rents averaged $2,095, down 1.7% from last year, while condominium apartment rents fell 5.7% to $2,202. Toronto saw a 4.7% decrease to $2,587, with most major cities posting annual declines amid ongoing softness in the rental market.

Arcadis Canada Strengthens Placemaking Practice With Senior Appointments
Arcadis Canada has appointed Craig Sklenar and Alfredo Landaeta to senior roles within its Placemaking practice, reinforcing its focus on urban planning and transit-oriented development. Sklenar brings more than 20 years of master planning experience across North America and New Zealand, while Landaeta adds over three decades of leading multidisciplinary projects in Canada and abroad. The announcement comes as Arcadis expands its national presence.

Events & Awards

BILD Builder Invitational Returns to Angus Glen This August
BILD’s annual Builder Invitational Golf Tournament is set for August 27 at Angus Glen Golf Club in Markham, bringing members together for a day of networking and recreation. The event includes lunch, an afternoon shotgun start, on-course food and beverages, and a cocktail reception capped with prizes and the tournament’s signature golfer gift. Open exclusively to BILD members, each twosome or foursome must include at least one builder, developer, or renovator participant.

BILD to Host September Economic Update Webinar
On September 11, BILD members can join TD Housing Economist Rishi Sondhi for a free online session examining current market conditions and key trends shaping the housing sector. The webinar will cover forecasts for home prices, interest rates, and other economic factors expected to influence the industry in the months ahead.

Arcadis Team Members Recognized With National Planning Awards
Arcadis Canada is celebrating two emerging leaders in its Placemaking practice, with Mara Bender receiving the 2025 CIP Excellence in Planning Research Scholarship and Rudia Nam earning the 2025 CIP Outstanding Graduating Student Award. Both honours reflect a commitment to advancing inclusive and equitable city-building.

CREST Awards to Honour Sustainability Leaders in Commercial Real Estate
The 2025 CREST Awards will take place on September 9 at SixtyEight in Scotia Plaza, recognizing building owners and managers advancing emissions reduction and operational excellence. Now in its eighth year, the program will present awards in categories including Emission Reduction Leadership, Innovative Excellence, Collaborative Excellence, Climate Champion, and the new Toronto Hydro Electrification Award. The evening will feature a keynote from Toronto Hydro CEO Jana Mosley, along with networking and a celebration of innovation and collaboration in the commercial real estate sector.

BOMA Toronto to Host Fall Social and Annual General Meeting
BOMA Toronto’s Fall Social and Annual General Meeting will take place on October 7 at The Quay, offering members a waterfront setting with city skyline views. The program includes the annual business meeting, a keynote address by Toronto Region Board of Trade President and CEO Giles Gherson, and a networking reception with refreshments. Attendees can also take advantage of complimentary professional headshots, available on a first-come, first-served basis during the event.

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