Houses are for homes, not speculation

Re: “Victoria council asks B.C. for foreign speculators tax,” April 21. I noted that the article quoted a local real-estate agent as opposing the tax, because, to paraphrase, speculation wasn’t happening and outside buyers were moving and living here, not leaving properties vacant.

I find this a contradiction to the flyers some real-estate agents frequently distribute. They contain phrases such as: “Investors and Foreign Buyers Want Your Property!” “Marketing to Mainland China!” “Buyers have flexible timelines and are able to pay top dollar.”

So, which is it? Buyers who want to become part of our communities, or speculators? Let’s hope the decision-makers will have the necessary facts at their disposal to make the best decision for all citizens of the Greater Victoria area, and not have to just rely on opinion.

It saddens me greatly to drive along Vancouver streets, such as Cambie, where so many houses, once vibrant family homes, are now clearly vacant and often derelict. Shouldn’t the purpose of a house or apartment be solely for residence?

I’m all for measures that ensure viable communities for all, including affordable housing. There is no need to make this about where buyers are from. It’s about their contributions, financial and otherwise, once they have made their residential purchases. Janice Davis Oak Bay