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Do New Development Condos in Toronto Allow Airbnb Rentals?

Airbnb is a popular accommodation option for travellers in Toronto. It’s estimated that there are over 8,000 listings on the site, and this number continues to grow each year. As an Airbnb host, there are many benefits to listing your property on the site. It’s a great option, for example, if you’re looking for a change in careers, trying to make passive income, wanting to become your own boss, or looking to rent out your home while you travel or are away for work. It sounds great if you already own a property, but what if you’re in the market for a new condo? Do new development condos in Toronto allow Airbnb rentals? Read on to find out more.

What Is Airbnb?

Airbnb is a website that connects people who have extra space in their homes with people who want to stay there. Airbnb hosts rent out their private rooms or entire homes, often at lower rates than hotels and other lodging options. Airbnb has become popular in recent years because it allows users to travel more affordably while getting a unique experience staying in someone else’s home.

Know the Regulations

The impact of Airbnb on new development condos is one that should be considered by developers and homebuyers alike. The rise in popularity of short-term rentals has resulted in a decrease in available long-term rental units, as well as an increase in competition for available units. While the city continues to grapple with an affordable housing crisis, the City of Toronto amended their short-term rental rules and regulations in November 2019 to dissuade investors from purchasing properties for the use of short-term rentals alone. The new short-term rental rules are such that you can short-term rent your home only if it’s your principal residence. This is the residence where you live and the address you use for bills, identification, taxes and insurance. You can only have one principal residence at a time, so therefore you cannot legally run more than one short-term rental. You can rent up to three bedrooms in your principal residence for an unlimited number of nights per year or the entire home for a maximum of 180 nights per year. Your home must be in a residential area in the city, and you must be registered with the City.

Do New Development Condos Allow Airbnb Rentals?

The short answer is that it depends.

Because of the new rules and regulations, you can only operate an Airbnb out of your principal residence, meaning it’s not a viable option for condo investors who are interested in purchasing property for the sole purpose of renting it out as a short-term rental. That being said, if your plan is to live in your unit and rent it out under the new short-term rental rules and regulations, then there are a number of factors to consider before buying into a pre-construction condo.

One of the most important considerations is whether or not Airbnb rentals are allowed in the building. The restrictions on Airbnb rentals vary from condo to condo, and range from no restrictions at all (for example, some buildings allow short-term rentals year-round) to very few nights allowed per year (for example, only one weeknight per month) to none permitted at all. Condo boards can also place restrictions based on unit type or floor level; for example, some buildings allow only penthouse owners to rent out their units as short-term rentals while others allow any owner who lives in their unit full-time to do so.

Before purchasing a property for short-term rentals such as Airbnb, it’s important to check the preliminary bylaws and ensure that they permit this type of rental. However, it’s worth noting that some developments may prohibit short-term rentals once residents move in. In certain situations, it may be possible to persuade the developer to include grandfather clauses for short-term rentals. Nevertheless, it’s advisable to consult a real estate lawyer before making any decisions.

If you’re looking to rent out your condo on Airbnb, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Make sure that the building allows short-term rentals and has an agreement with Airbnb or another service like it. Many buildings have restrictions against short-term rentals because they want to maintain a sense of community among residents and discourage transient use by people who may not be invested in the building’s success. If you’re considering renting out your unit through Airbnb, ask about these policies before making any decisions about whether or not it’s right for you.

Do you have any questions about new development condos and Airbnb? Connect with BAZIS on social media (Facebook, Twitter or Instagram) and let us know!

Making a Smart Investment: Comparing Pre-Construction Condos and Resale Properties

The Toronto real estate market is always evolving, and as a potential homebuyer, it can be challenging to decide which type of condo to invest in. While resale properties offer established communities and a record of previous sales, pre-construction condos promise the latest in modern design and technology, often stellar locations, and many other benefits. In this blog, we’ll explore the pros and cons of each option to help you decide which type of condo is the right investment for you.

Pre-Construction Condos

Pre-construction condos are properties that are still in the planning and construction phase, as the name suggests. These units offer buyers the opportunity to enter the real estate market at a more gradual pace, as the buyer typically pays a deposit of 5-15% over a period of time, with the remaining down payment due at the completion date, which is typically about 2-5 years later.

Pre-construction condos usually feature the latest advancements in modern design and technology, making them appealing to prospective buyers or renters. Furthermore, these condos are usually situated in emerging neighbourhoods, which can lead to higher appreciation potential over time as the area becomes more desirable. Many condos are also built in prime locations, however, to help intensify cities.

Investing in a pre-construction condo has several significant advantages. Firstly, buyers can secure the property at the lowest price without having to participate in bidding wars. Additionally, buyers can customize the unit according to their preferences, such as choosing the appliances, finishes, and layout that best serve their needs. Furthermore, pre-construction condos come with warranties, which can provide reassurance in case of any unforeseen issues.

Despite their benefits, pre-construction condos present their own set of challenges. One potential challenge is the risk of construction delays, which can affect your ability to move in, generate rental income, or sell the unit. Since pre-construction condos require time to build, you must have a good understanding of what your future might look like in a few years. For example, how much space will you need? Are you planning to expand your family? Additionally, since pre-construction condos are not yet constructed, you cannot inspect the unit before purchasing, which can be a disadvantage for those who prefer to see the space before making a decision.

Resale Properties

Resale properties are homes that have been previously owned and are now being sold by their current owner. These condos are typically located in established communities, offering a sense of stability and history. Resale properties are oftentimes larger than pre-construction condos, offering more space for families or those looking for a little extra room.

One of the primary advantages of investing in a resale is the ability to see the property before you buy. This means that you can inspect the home for any potential issues and get a feel for the space and layout. You can also research the property’s history, including previous sales and any issues that may have arisen.

Another benefit of investing in a resale property is the ability to move in right away and the potential for immediate rental income. Since these units are already built and ready to occupy, you can start renting them out right away. This can help you earn a return on your investment more quickly than waiting for a pre-construction unit to be completed.

Despite their benefits, resale homes present their own unique challenges. One of the main concerns is the age of the property, which may require more frequent maintenance and repairs. Additionally, since these properties have already been owned, they are not as customizable and may not feature the latest advancements in modern design and technology. This can have an impact on the property’s appeal to potential tenants or buyers. Furthermore, purchasing a resale property typically requires a significant amount of money upfront, as the down payment is usually around 20% of the property’s value.

Which Type of Condo Should You Invest In?

When choosing which type of condo to invest in, it’s crucial to consider your objectives, preferences, and financial position. If you want immediate rental income, quick occupancy, or a sense of community, a resale property may be the better option. However, if you’re searching for a new unit that you can tailor to your liking and the potential for appreciation over time, a pre-construction condo might be more suitable. You must also assess your finances and determine which option is most suitable for you. Can you afford a down payment of 20% or more right now, or do you need some time to make your payments?

Additionally, the location of the unit is critical to consider since it can influence its appeal and potential for rental income and appreciation over time. Seek out units situated in sought-after neighbourhoods with convenient access to public transit, shopping, and entertainment options.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to invest in a resale or pre-construction condo comes down to your personal goals and preferences. Do your research, weigh the pros and cons of each option, and make an informed decision that aligns with your investment strategy.

Do you have any questions about resale or pre-construction condos? Connect with BAZIS on social media (Facebook, Twitter or Instagram) and let us know!

The Most Common Mistakes of Pre-Construction Condo Buyers

 pre-construction condos Downtown Toronto

Buying a pre-construction condo in downtown Toronto in 2023 can be an exciting opportunity. Investing in a pre-construction condo in Toronto gives you access to the best units at the lowest pricing, not to mention a brand new home that you get to customize to your liking! Pair that with an excellent neighbourhood and a reputable builder, and you’ve got yourself a slam-dunk. Purchasing a pre-construction condo is not only a great life choice, but also a lucrative investment if you choose to rent or sell later.

While the rewards are plenty, it’s essential to proceed with caution when investing in a pre-construction condo in Toronto. The process can be long and confusing, and if you don’t take care you can end up paying for it with your wallet or your sanity (or both!). We’ve put together a list of the most common mistakes of pre-construction condo buyers so that you can be empowered when making your purchase and enjoy the experience from start to finish.

Mistake #1: Not Getting Professional Advice

One of the biggest mistakes pre-construction condo buyers make is trying to cut costs and navigate the buying process alone. The process of buying a pre-construction condo in Toronto is complex. Before signing any legally-binding contracts, you’ll want to consult an experienced real estate agent, lawyer, and mortgage broker. There are many details to iron out before making major life decisions. These professionals can help you navigate your rights and responsibilities as a condo owner by helping you understand the terms and conditions of your contract. Additionally, they can advise you on the legal aspects of your purchase agreement and your financing options. They’ll also be able to spot any red flags or concerns on your behalf, and ensure that everything goes smoothly and that there are no surprises.

Mistake #2: Not Having a Pre-Approved Mortgage

One of the biggest blunders of purchasing a pre-construction condo in Toronto is when buyers make the assumption that they’ll qualify for a mortgage. Most pre-construction condo projects take years to complete, and your life circumstances can drastically change in that time. You may be eligible for a mortgage now but that might not be the case down the road. Before closing your deal, get in touch with a mortgage broker and make sure you qualify for a pre-approved mortgage.

Mistake #3: Not Planning for Closing Costs and Other Fees

Buying a pre-construction condo requires a considerable amount of financial planning. Many condo buyers look at the price tag without realizing that they’ll also be required to pay additional fees – for example land transfer taxes, registration fees, and legal fees. If you’re not prepared, these costs can quickly add up and become overwhelming. So, before making any decisions, you’ll want to ensure you’re aware of all the costs related to your pre-construction condo. Consider hiring a real estate broker who can help you understand your deposit structure, maintenance fees, property taxes, and closing costs. You’ll also need to factor in additional costs like the monthly interest rate on your mortgage (which can change over time), insurance fees, utility bills, and parking fees.

 pre-construction condos Downtown Toronto

Mistake #4: Not Planning for the Future

Buying a pre-construction condo means buying a home that hasn’t been built yet. On average, it takes three to five years for a pre-construction project to be completed, depending on its size and complexity. It’s common for builders to face setbacks and delays in construction, which means that the time to complete the project and occupancy is unpredictable. Many buyers purchase their homes with their current lifestyle in mind, but when it comes to pre-construction condos, you need to consider where you’ll be in a few years. You’ll want to factor in potential life changes that may occur – for example, what if you end up having a child and a one-bedroom condo isn’t enough space? Before signing any contracts, think about your future and plan ahead.

Mistake #5: Expecting the Floor Plans to Stay the Exact Same

Many people fall in love with floor plans and renderings shown in marketing brochures without realizing that things can change. This can lead to disappointment when the finished condo isn’t exactly what they had imagined. It’s important to understand that when purchasing a pre-construction condo, you’re buying into the builder’s vision before construction begins. During the construction phase, it’s not uncommon for the initial floor plans to change slightly, either to create more space or to accommodate different features. The best way to combat disappointment is to ensure you’re working with a good builder who’s known to deliver quality results, and be ready to work with a flexible floor plan.

Do you have any questions about the pre-construction condo buying process? Connect with BAZIS on social media (Facebook, Twitter or Instagram) and let us know!

BAZIS is a real estate development company specializing in developing communities and pre construction condos in Toronto area. We’re committed to excellence in every facet of the commercial and residential real estate development process. Combining visionary architecture, design, marketing and construction with the epitome of corporate integrity and environmental responsibility, BAZIS has become a major force in articulating Toronto’s ever-evolving skyline.

Buying a Pre-Construction Condo in Downtown Toronto: Do You Have to Pay HST?

pre construction condos for sale downtown Toronto

Buying a brand new pre-construction condo in downtown Toronto is exciting, but it may also bring up many questions and uncertainties. It can be confusing trying to understand how HST works, for example, and who pays for it. So, let’s break down HST when purchasing a pre-construction condo in Toronto and take a closer look at the HST Rebate.

In 2010, Ontario implemented Harmonized Sales Tax (HST), which raised the tax on new homes to 13% (HST) – a total of 5% GST (federal taxes) and 8% PST (provincial taxes). To help new homeowners cover the growing costs of owning a new home, the government created the HST Rebate Program. This program works in two ways – depending on what kind of buyer you are – to reimburse buyers for a portion of the tax.

The two ways that buyers can qualify for the HST Rebate in Ontario are:

  1. HST New Home Rebate (NHR): When you buy a pre-construction condo that you plan to live in (end user)
  2. New Residential Rental Property Rebate (NRRPR): When you buy a pre-construction condo as an investor with the intent of renting it out after closing (investor)

End Users

When you buy a pre-construction condo in Downtown Toronto, you’re assigning the right to the HST rebate to the builder. The builder then uses the rebate to reduce the purchase cost of the property. This portion of the HST is not added to your property’s purchase price, and the builder will apply for the HST rebate for the property, thus reducing the amount due at closing by the amount of the rebate.

In short: you don’t have to pay for HST on your new condo, as it’s already built into the final purchase price of the home, including the cost of the HST NHR. This is provided you’re a Canadian resident and provided that you, or an immediate family member such as a parent or sibling, plan on being the principal resident of the condo.

One thing to keep in mind is that if you sell or lease the property before the one-year mark, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will require you to pay back the HST Rebate in full.

Investors

If you plan on purchasing a pre-construction condo for sale in Downtown Toronto with the intent of renting it out after closing, you need to apply for the New Residential Rental Property Rebate (NRRPR) rather than the NHR.

To receive the HST Rebate, you need to submit a one-year lease agreement and prove that the property will be rented out for one year after closing. Additionally, you must pay the full HST amount upfront and you will receive the rebate a couple of months after sending in the proof of the lease agreement. Similarly to the NHR, if you end up selling or flipping the property before the one-year mark, the CRA will require that you pay back the HST Rebate in full.

pre construction condos for sale downtown Toronto

How Much Is the HST Rebate?

The amount of the HST Rebate varies depending on the price of the new condo. If the pre-construction condo is priced under $350,000, then you’re eligible to receive a maximum of $30,000 back (36% rebate on the GST portion, and 75% on PST). Between $350,000 and $450,000, there is a sliding scale, and for properties costing more than $450,000, a maximum rebate of $24,000 can be received.

There are many HST Rebate calculators on the internet that you can consult to calculate the exact amount, but keep in mind that if you’re purchasing a pre-construction condo and plan to live in it, the HST in the majority of cases will already be factored into the purchase price, and you don’t need to worry about it.

Do you have any questions about HST when buying a pre-construction condo in Toronto? Connect with BAZIS on social media (Facebook, Twitter or Instagram) and let us know!

BAZIS is a real estate development company specializing in developing communities and pre construction condos in Toronto area. We’re committed to excellence in every facet of the commercial and residential real estate development process. Combining visionary architecture, design, marketing and construction with the epitome of corporate integrity and environmental responsibility, BAZIS has become a major force in articulating Toronto’s ever-evolving skyline.

How Do Assignments Work When Purchasing a Pre-Construction Condo in Toronto?

If you’ve purchased a new condo or are in the market to do so, you may have heard the term “assignment sale” and wondered what assignment sales are and how they work. Today, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about assignment sales.

What are assignment sales?

Assignment sales are a type of sale in which a buyer (assignor) sells their condo contract to a buyer (assignee) before the closing (move-in) date. Assignment sales occur for both homes and condos, however are most prevalent in pre-construction condos.

Why do people sell before their closing date?

When purchasing a pre-construction condo in Toronto, there can be a long wait time between the point of purchasing and the actual move-in date. It can sometimes take years before a condo is built and a buyer can move in. During that time, circumstances may change for the buyer. For example, the buyer may have accepted a job offer in another city, they may have gotten married and had kids and need a bigger space, or they may not be able to afford closing anymore. Another reason could be that the buyer bought the condo in an up-and-coming area and is now looking to make a profit on the sale. There are many reasons why a person may want to sell their pre-construction condo to another interested buyer.

How do assignment sales work?

Assignment sales can work in different ways depending on the builder. Some builders don’t permit assignments or allow them only if they are paid an assignment fee. So having the builder’s approval is the first essential step to proceeding with an assignment.

When a buyer makes an assignment sale, what they’re actually selling is the condo contract – not the condo itself, since they don’t actually own it yet (since it hasn’t been closed). They are passing along their contractual agreement with the builder to purchase the home – their right and their obligation.

The buyer purchases this right and obligation, and must abide by all the terms within the original contract with the builder, who is the original seller. The original buyer must sign an Agreement of Purchase and Sale, including an Assignment Agreement Clause.

The pros and cons of assignment sales

To break it down quickly, here are some of the main pros and cons of assignments.

Pros:

  • Buyers (assignees) can purchase a brand new condo at a lower price
  • The condo’s price/value will likely continue to rise as it’s being constructed
  • Buyers can get into an amazing building that sold out
  • Buyers benefit from all the perks of the original agreement, such as having their new condo be covered by the Tarion warranty program, which offers years of warranty against errors and defects with the condo unit, as well as provides warranties for newly-installed appliances; the original agreement may also include upgrades, credits, and capped developing charges from the builder

Cons:

  • The builder must approve the transaction before it can go ahead
  • There’s less ability to negotiate the price of the home, or the terms and conditions of the agreement, since buyers are inheriting the original purchaser’s contract
  • Buyers (assignees) will be responsible for closing costs, which can sometimes include the education and development levies, Tarion legal fees, and HST on appliances
  • Buyers will also be responsible for paying land transfer tax, municipal levies, legal fees and more

Are you considering investing in a pre-construction condo, and have you considered assignment sales? Connect with BAZIS on social media (Facebook, Twitter or Instagram) and let us know!

Townhomes vs. Condos: Do You Know the Differences?

new townhome development in Toronto - Bazis

When buying a new home in Toronto or any other urban area, many of the options on the market are either townhomes or condos. These two types of housing often elicit many questions from potential homeowners and bring up many points of confusion, especially when it comes to homeownership and shared/communal spaces. This blog post will break down the differences between townhomes and condos and will help you determine which one is best for you and your family.

First things first. Most people understand that townhomes (or townhouses) are individual houses that are built side by side, with one or two walls of each home being shared with the home next to it, whereas condos are a type of home that are often an apartment within a larger complex or building (although they can take other forms, including townhomes!).

Here are some important differences between these two types of home:

Ownership

With a condo, you own the interior of the residence (your unit) only. Exterior parts of the residence, such as the building itself and the outdoor grounds, as well as communal areas such as gyms, party rooms, and rooftop BBQ areas, are owned by the condo association. Condo associations represent the condo owners and their interests. They’re run and funded by the condo residents and also have boards of directors. The role of the boards is to organize regular meetings, establish and maintain budgets, and enforce rules and regulations relating to the condo. If you’re a condo owner, you, therefore, are a joint owner of the communal and common areas. This means you will have to pay a monthly fee.

New townhomes in Toronto can be either freehold or condominium. If they’re freehold (like our upcoming Bartley Towns community of new luxurious townhomes at Eglinton and the DVP), that means that you fully own the house and also the land on which it is built, as well as any yard or deck surrounding it (similarly to how homeowners of detached homes own their homes and yards outright). Freehold townhomes do not have any monthly maintenance fees.

Condominium townhomes, by contrast, do not include land ownership. Similar to the condo apartments discussed above, residents only own the interior of their home, and the land on which the home is built – as well as the common areas surrounding it, if applicable – are jointly owned amongst all owners. This ownership is again managed through a condo association and involves a monthly fee.

pre construction townhomes Toronto

Legal Statutes

Condos are governed by legal statutes, whereas townhomes are not. This means that condo owners have less autonomy since they’re subject to the bylaws outlined by the condo corporation. Residents may not be able to make changes to their homes and may face restrictions regarding the type of exterior decorations they’re allowed to put up, whether or not pets are allowed, rules regarding common areas’ use and open hours, garbage and recycling rules, and also whether or not they’re allowed to rent out their home.

By contrast, owners of freehold townhomes are entirely free to do whatever they like with their homes.

Privacy

Condo owners generally experience a lower level of privacy, especially condo apartments, since they live in close quarters with many other residents and share communal entrances and exits. Owners of new townhomes in Toronto, especially freehold townhomes, are more likely to have a greater sense of autonomy, privacy, and independence.

new townhomes for sale in toronto

A Summary of the Main Differences

To recap: condo owners only own the inside of their homes, and they’re joint owners of the building’s exterior and communal areas. Townhome owners may have the same situation if the townhome is a condo. For freehold townhomes, however, residents fully own their house and also the land it’s built on and the surrounding yard or deck. Freehold townhomes do not have maintenance fees, while condos do. Condos are governed by legal statutes, whereas townhomes aren’t. This means that owners of freehold townhomes have more autonomy. Lastly, people who live in freehold townhomes generally experience a greater degree of privacy and independence.

Questions? Get in touch by sending us a direct message on social media (Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram) or contact us at 905-532-0435. And make sure to register for our upcoming Bartley Towns community if you’ve decided that townhome living is right for you!

Top Toronto Townhome Upgrades to Maximize Future Resale Value

Torontonians love their new homes. In a 2018 Globe and Mail Report, there will be well over 100,000 new pre-construction townhomes, Toronto between 2010 and 2020. With all the new houses built in the GTA, it’s easy to see new trends as they emerge, and new home buyers demand them.

It’s important to consider not only the upgrades that have *sizzle* but also the practical upgrades that are costly to do later, as well. These are things such as upgrades to ceiling heights, electrical, and insulation. Continue reading

Your Questions Answered – How Do I Buy a New Condo in Toronto?

condo developments toronto

Buying a new condominium is an exciting adventure. The downtown Toronto lifestyle is hard to beat. You have the ultimate freedom. Just lock the door and leave. The city awaits!

When thinking of buying a new condo, learn the steps to buying a new condominium or townhome in Toronto. Living in a home purchased directly from the builder means that you get to be the first one to live in your home and you get to choose exactly how you want it to look! Continue reading

Design and Decor Inspiration for New Townhomes in Toronto

One of the biggest benefits of buying new is being able to make it exactly how you want it. Bartley Towns new Toronto townhomes offer just that. The ability to customize their Bartley townhomes is a huge benefit for busy Toronto families.

The process of selecting your own finishes is a pleasure to dream about. Start by choosing your favourite looks in magazines and keeping an eye on interiors that reflect your personal style. It can be as much fun to choose your home’s finishes, as it is to put together your fall wardrobe! Continue reading