Ahead of the federal election April 28, The Morning Star is giving Vernon-Lake Country-Monashee residents a look at where the local candidates stand on important issues.
3) Please explain how your party will improve access to housing for first-time buyers and/or individuals struggling to save a down payment at a time when the average home price across B.C. is around $964,000.
Mark Carney and the Liberal Party have introduced a comprehensive plan to improve housing affordability for first-time buyers and those struggling with down payments, particularly in high-cost areas like British Columbia. Key initiatives include:
鈥� Creating a new entity Build Canada Homes: the role will be to build more homes and double the number of homes Canada is building every year, including financing for building companies, and an investment in mass timber housing.
鈥� The government will remove the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on new home purchases for first time buyers up to $1 million for first-time buyers, potentially saving up to $50,000 and reducing upfront costs.
鈥� More Flexible First-Time Home Buyer Incentive offering eligible buyers a shared-equity mortgage with the government, reducing the amount needed for a down payment and lowering monthly mortgage payments.
鈥� Introducing a Home Buyers' Bill of Rights: to make the home-buying process fairer and more transparent, this includes banning blind bidding and ensuring the right to a home inspection.
鈥� Doubling Home Construction: The Liberals plan to double the pace of home construction to nearly 500,000 new homes annually, increasing supply and helping to moderate prices.
4) If elected and your party doesn鈥檛 form as government, how will you best represent your riding?
Regardless of whether an MP is a member of the party in power, MPs represent their constituents in many ways: by representing their views in the House of Commons and suggesting policy initiatives on their behalf. By partaking in the legislative process, MPs give constituents at least an indirect role in the shaping of important policies affecting their lives. Electing Anna Warwick Sears ensures Vernon鈥揕ake Country鈥揗onashee has a strong advocate in Ottawa who truly understands the region and is ready to tackle the issues that matter most to us.
鈥� Affordability and Economic Security: Anna recognizes the financial pressures families face daily. She'll work to implement policies that ease these burdens, such as advocating for affordable housing initiatives and fair taxation, protecting our local industries and jobs.
鈥� Climate Change and Environmental Protection: With nearly two decades leading the Okanagan Basin Water Board, Anna has firsthand experience addressing environmental challenges. She's committed to promoting sustainable practices and policies that protect our natural resources. Anna's dedication goes beyond party lines. Her collaborative and centrist approach and proven leadership mean she'll effectively represent your interests, ensuring Vernon鈥揕ake Country鈥揗onashee's voice is heard loud and clear in Ottawa.
