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| Frequently Asked Questions |
Affordable Housing
Below are a few typical questions asked about affordable housing. If your question isn't answered here please write to us at chic@cmhc-schl.gc.ca and we'll respond promptly.
- Where can I apply for subsidized or low-income housing?
- What resources are available at CMHC to assist non-profit housing groups who want to develop affordable housing?
- How can our organization find out about alternative financing options for a proposed affordable housing project?
- What is meant by core housing need?
- What is the common definition of affordability?
1. Where can I apply for subsidized or low-income housing?
Subsidized housing for low-income households is handled at the municipal government level. To find housing in your city, please check the municipal government pages of your phone book or call your city or town hall.
2. What resources are available at CMHC to assist non-profit housing groups who want to develop affordable housing?
The Centre for Public/Private Partnerships brings together the public and private sectors, non-profit organizations and private citizens to produce housing for low-to-moderate income households.
The Market Analysis Centre, CMHC's national network of market analysts and economists, is a source of housing market expertise and information. Regional analysts are knowledgeable about the supply of affordable housing, as well as trends that can affect development decisions.
The Canadian Housing Information Centre (CHIC) has the latest CMHC publications, a comprehensive lending library, and experienced staff to help answer your questions.
ACT (Affordability and Choice Today) is a national housing program that provides grants to municipalities, builders, developers and other housing professionals. ACT encourages groups to create and share ways to reform regulations and practices.
The Order Desk is the source to order CMHC products.
3. How can our organization find out about alternative financing options for a proposed affordable housing project?
Contact the Centre for Public Private Partnerships in Housing (CPPPH), at CMHC. The centre has worked with many groups to develop innovative financing and tenure arrangements. It also provides assistance on legal and regulatory issues.
4. What is meant by core housing need?
Core housing need refers to households which are unable to afford shelter that meets adequacy, suitability, and affordability norms. The norms have been adjusted over time to reflect the housing expectations of Canadians. Affordability, one of the elements used to determine core housing need, is recognized as a maximum of 30 per cent of the household income spent on shelter.
5. What is the common definition of affordability?
The cost of adequate shelter should not exceed 30% of household income. Housing which costs less than this is considered affordable. However, consumers, housing providers and advocacy organizations tend to use a broader definition of affordability.
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