Session 2: Determining What the Markets Really Want – and Need

Session 2: Determining What the Markets Really Want – and Need

The need for more housing is clear, but do we know what type of housing the market really needs? With changing demographics and population growth, our current housing forms have not been able to match the needs in our communities.  Young professionals, families, empty nesters; households change over time.  Our housing supply should meet the demands of an aging population as much as it meets the needs of new home buyers as well as create a stable and healthy rental market.  Communities seek to attract and retain workers and investors, who may seek different housing forms and locations than the current housing stock offers. Official plans and regulatory policies often run contrary to these goals. How can we learn – and then build – what is truly in need and in demand?

Moderator

• Alex Bozikovic
  Architecture critic, The Globe and Mail

Panelists

• Andalieb Abu-Zahra
  Project Manager, Petite Homes; Registered Interior Designer, Aha! Interiors Inc.
• Krista Walkey
  General Manager of Planning, City of Guelph
• Sharon Woods
  Founding Principal, LandUse USA