BC United releases plan to tackle housing crisis

PRINCE GEORGE — Housing is the theme of the week in Victoria. In the wake of the provincial government’s BC Builds program announcement, BC United has announced their plan to tackle the housing crisis in British Columbia.

“If you want more affordable housing, you have to make it less expensive.” That was the message, loud and clear, from Kevin Falcon Thursday morning, as BC United has unveiled the first plank in their housing policy. Kevin Falcon says that his plan is all about affordability and accessibility. The first step in BC United’s plan titled “United to Fix Housing”, is establishing a rent-to-own program. This program will require developers of new housing to set aside up to 15 percent of homes in participating projects for eligible British Columbians who are first-time buyers only. Qualified buyers will take possession and reside in the home for three years at which time the sale will officially complete. During these three years, participants will pay rent at market rates, with 100% of payments being applied toward their down payment.

“Fixing the housing crisis requires bold ideas and outside-the-box thinking. That’s what BC United is bringing to the table with this plan to help restore the dream of homeownership in our province.” – Kevin Falcon, Leader of the Opposition (BCU)