Why Taxing People More Will Not Fix the Housing Crisis

Written by Chris Perkins. Exploring non-resident deed transfer tax and the housing crisis. 

I was recently approached by Krista Gallagher, Halifax-Chebucto MLA with the Nova Scotia NDP. She asked me about my views on the non-resident deed transfer tax, and I discovered it is something I’m quite passionate about. What was going to be a pointed email turned into a piece focused on the bigger issue the tax is supposed to alleviate: A housing crisis driven by a lack of supply. 

The non-resident deed transfer tax is currently 5% of a home's purchase price and applies to buyers who are not residents of Nova Scotia and do not intend to become residents within six months of purchase. The government…

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U.S. Tariffs & Canadian Cities: How Halifax’s Real Estate Market Stands Strong​

As we navigate the evolving landscape of international trade, it's important to assess how recent U.S. tariff announcements may impact our local economy and the real estate market. The Canadian Chamber's Business Data Lab (BDL) has provided valuable insights into which Canadian cities are most vulnerable to these tariffs, offering a clearer picture of potential challenges and opportunities: ​businessdatalab.ca

Understanding the Tariff Exposure Index

The BDL developed a U.S. Tariff Exposure Index to evaluate the susceptibility of various Canadian cities to the newly imposed U.S. tariffs. This index considers two primary factors:​

  1. Export Intensity: The…

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compass cove

Part 1: The Perfect Location

Nestled along Nova Scotia’s breathtaking South Shore, Compass Cove offers a truly idyllic lifestyle in the serene community of Fox Point. Just 5 minutes away lies Hubbards, the gateway to the South Shore, brimming with charm and vibrance.

Hubbards is more than just a village; it’s a hub for dining, entertainment, and outdoor recreation. Delight your taste buds at popular spots like The Tuna Blue, The Savary Plate and Black Harbour Distillers, or dance the night away at The Shore Club, the last great dance hall of its kind. For more leisurely pursuits, explore Hubbards Cove Rentals, the Hubbards Barn, or the local shops that add to the area’s charm.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the adventures are endless.…

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Reconnecting the City: The Vision Behind Richmond Yards

In the heart of the city, Richmond Yards is transforming an underutilized space into a vibrant, connected, and livable community. This ambitious redevelopment is about more than just buildings—it’s about stitching together neighborhoods, improving mobility, and creating welcoming public spaces that enhance urban life.

Breaking Down Barriers, Building Connections

One of the core ideas behind Richmond Yards was to restore connections across the site. Historically, this area was a fragmented superblock, limiting movement and accessibility. By introducing new pedestrian pathways, plazas, and mixed-use spaces, we’ve reimagined the site as an integral part of the city’s fabric.

Once fully…

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Nova Scotia Non-Resident Deed Transfer Tax Increases to 10%

The government of Nova Scotia has announced changes to the province's deed transfer tax for non-residents—including those from other parts of Canada. Currently, if you purchase a home in Nova Scotia and do not intend to become a resident within six months of the closing date, you are subject to an additional deed transfer tax of 5% on top of the base rate of 1.5% that residents pay, for a total of 6.5%.

Effective April 1st (no joke), the government will increase the non-resident rate to 10% (plus the base 1.5%), resulting in a total tax rate of 11.5%. I am very disappointed by this change, which is likely a response to the recently announced operating budget deficit and a measure to help…

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January by the Numbers

Average Price (3M) - $607,847 (Up 9%)
Homes for Sale - 646 (Down 0.2%)
Pending sales - 222 (Down 9%)
1.8 months of supply


Tariff Impact on the Halifax Real Estate Market

While it's too early to predict the full effects of the Trump tariffs on the Halifax real estate market, several key scenarios are worth considering. The immediate rise in construction material costs, broader economic impacts, and potential government interventions will all play a role. Regional variations are likely, with Halifax’s diverse economy potentially providing some insulation from the challenges.


New Home Construction and Halifax Housing Supply

The Trump tariffs will have an immediate impact on new home construction in both Canada and…

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Understanding Tariffs and Their Impact on the Canadian Real Estate Market

Introduction

Welcome to the world of tariffs! No conspiracy theories here, and we’re leaving politics at the door. The objective of this report is to demystify tariffs, explain how they work, and analyze their broader economic impact, particularly in the Canadian real estate market. By breaking down their mechanisms and historical implications, this report aims to provide insight into how tariffs shape market dynamics and influence homebuyers and homeowners, especially in Nova Scotia.

Before we dive in, I want to clarify that I am not a qualified professional in international trade—just someone interested in understanding current trade issues and their impact on real…

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A Coastal Sanctuary: Unveiling the Beauty of Tatamagouche Bay's Lighthouse Home

The Lighthouse: Your Coastal Sanctuary

Nestled on the pristine shores of Tatamagouche Bay, this 2,400+-square-foot, Lighthouse-inspired home is a stunning blend of luxury, comfort, functionality and coastal charm. Constructed on a slab with ICF, and featuring in-floor heating and a pellet stove, this architectural masterpiece promises year-round warmth and comfort. Efficient heating during winter and refreshing coolness in summer are all part of the deal. With 2 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, and an attached single-car garage, 3602 Malagash Rd. sits on a cleared and level, three-acre lot, offering unobstructed views of the tranquil bay, rolling green hills beyond and endless…

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Halifax Real Estate: 2024 Recap & 2025 Market Outlook

Written by Chris Perkins: The Market, My Favourite Listing, Best Transformation and More!

The Halifax real estate market has always been dynamic, but 2024 brought a unique blend of challenges and opportunities for buyers, sellers, and investors alike. From rising interest rates finally taking a breather to record-breaking single-family home prices and stable condo values, the year was nothing short of transformative. As we step into 2025, the stage is set for even more exciting changes, including a competitive Spring market and new opportunities for savvy real estate moves. Whether you’re curious about the year’s top listings, remarkable property transformations, or where the market is headed,…

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Discover Tranquility in West Lahave: A Raised Bungalow with Unparalleled River Views
Nestled in the community of West Lahave, Nova Scotia, lies a charming raised bungalow that offers more than just a place to live. Spanning over 1,800 square feet, this picturesque home masterfully combines comfort, modern amenities, and breathtaking natural beauty, making it a true gem in the heart of the province.

Upon entering, you are immediately welcomed by an open-concept living area adorned with vaulted ceilings, creating an expansive and airy ambiance. This design is not only modern but also cozy, ensuring that both family and guests feel right at home. The main living area faces east, providing unobstructed views of the stunning Lahave River. Large…

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