UCP calls for an Alberta exemption to stress tests for homebuyers
Posted January 31, 2019 7:42 am.
Last Updated January 31, 2019 10:30 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
CALGARY (660 NEWS) – Brick by brick, UCP Leader Jason Kenney wants to scale back legislation from Ottawa when it comes to buying homes. He would like Alberta to be exempt from stress tests involved in buying homes.
Kenney believes this broad legislation was brought in because of problems outside of Alberta.
“One of the reasons why homes are less affordable in Alberta today is because of unfair rules imposed by Ottawa to deal with the overheated real estate markets in Toronto and Vancouver.”
Kenney noted his party will act on this before any election.
“A motion at the first opportunity in the next (sitting of the) legislature calling on the federal government to withdraw its unfair attack on Alberta home ownership.”
Meanwhile, Mayor Naheed Nenshi is happy to see any party talk about housing ahead of the next provincial election.
“I’d love to look at it because it clearly did not apply to the Alberta context.”
Kenney also believes this causes problems for first-time homebuyers. That is an argument Nenshi could get on board with.
“That stress test has actually been very challenging for first-time homebuyers. It has particularly been challenging for folks who are trying to access housing through Attainable Homes Calgary.”
Ward 5 Councillor George Chahal is bringing forward a motion on Monday asking for a more regional approach from the federal government.
Premier Rachel Notley quipped she may look into this but will be focused on what the provincial government can do to help.
“That can help people have a higher quality of life and have more affordability. So that is what my focus is on.
