NDP vows 1.5 million new homes over decade

The NDP is promising 1.5 million new homes over the next decade to ease the housing crunch — a plan that includes more duplexes and triplexes, affordable units and an easing of rules so that garages and basements can be turned into rentals.

“We have a plan that will give you a lifeline, give you that chance to own your own home,” said Leader Andrea Horwath at a campaign stop in Burlington on Friday morning.

The plan, which she first announced last November, would entail the creation of a new agency, Housing Ontario, that would lead to 250,000 affordable homes run by non-profit or co-op housing providers. First-time buyers, with combined incomes of less than $200,000, would be able to get loans to help with down payments that don’t have to be repaid until they move and the property is sold.

An NDP government would also establish full rent control, so that when tenants move out, new renters won’t see massive increases, and that renters who leave during renovations don’t have to pay more when they return.