In this article a senior market analyst with the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation stated that a jump of 15 per cent has been seen in the average house resale price in the past year. This was on top of an additional 24.6 per cent increase the previous year.
In fact since 2008, the average resale price has risen from $130, 000 to $187,000.
Yet he contends that housing is still affordable. In what other sector of our economy would an increase of over 39 per cent in two years be deemed affordable? How many of you have had similar increases in your income in the past two years?
The Community Coalition on Housing and Homelessness is comprised of a number of community-based organizations, governmental representatives and concerned individuals, with a focus on addressing homelessness and facilitating access to affordable housing in its region. We adhere to the definition for affordable housing used by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation and believe that the cost of adequate shelter should not exceed 30 per cent of household income.
We further believe that this 30 per cent guideline should include the provision of basic utilities such as heat and lights. When shelter costs exceed 30 per cent of the gross household income, other core needs such as food and health care are compromised.
The issue of affordability must be placed within context.
A lack of affordable housing does not just affect individuals on the lower end of the income scale. A lack of affordable housing can impact the ability of communities to attract needed services, business and professionals. It also places a further burden on already overloaded health and social services.
As a community, Corner Brook needs to recognize that there is a shortage of affordable housing. Homelessness is a reality. We need to come together to address this situation and not accept the expert’s analysis of what is affordable or acceptable.
At this rate, it may soon be a member of your family that is in need of housing and finds themselves without.
Paula Sheppard Thibeau, Sandra Targett, Community Coalition on Housing and Homelessness co-chairs
