Immigration and Real Estate: How Royal York Property Management is Helping Immigrants Settle In

In recent years, immigration has significantly shaped the Canadian real estate market, especially in urban areas. Historically seen as a key driver of economic growth, immigration’s impact is now sparking debate among Canadians. While some recognize its benefits, concerns about its effects on housing affordability and public services are growing. In fact, 56% of Canadians worry about housing market pressures, while 59% express concern over public service capacity.

Government Plans on Immigration

In late 2023, the Canadian government introduced the Immigration Levels Plan for 2023-2025, aiming to welcome 485,000 newcomers in 2024 and 500,000 in 2025. This plan addresses labor shortages, stimulates economic growth, and promotes family reunification. Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship, highlighted the critical role newcomers play in supporting the labor market. However, he acknowledged the direct impact of immigration on the housing market and the need to balance immigration levels with pressures on housing and infrastructure.

The Impact of Immigration on the Housing Market

As more immigrants settle in urban centers like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, competition for housing intensifies. Newcomers often seek rental properties upon arrival, driving up rental prices and reducing vacancy rates. In December 2022, Bank of Canada Deputy Governor Toni Gravelle noted that strong population growth is contributing to rising rents and home prices. Ontario’s housing supply shortage is expected to worsen due to increasing immigration, further straining affordability.

Royal York Property Management’s Role

Royal York Property Management , managing over 25,000 units and more than $10 billion in assets, plays a vital role in helping newcomers secure affordable housing. Offering a range of services—tenant placement, property management, legal guidance, and market insights—RYPM supports immigrants in overcoming initial housing challenges. Nathan Levinson, President and Founder of RYPM, emphasizes the importance of these services in navigating Ontario’s competitive market while facilitating newcomers who might as well be at cross-roads upon arrival.

RYPM’s Services for Immigrant Renters

Specializing in tenant placement, RYPM uses advanced marketing techniques, professional photography, virtual tours, and an online portal to showcase properties effectively. This is especially beneficial for immigrants unfamiliar with the local rental market. “Our AI-driven tenant placement system quickly matches newcomers with suitable rental properties, reducing the time they spend searching for a home,” says Levinson.

RYPM’s Business Development department offers valuable market insights, guiding immigrants through rental trends and helping them find affordable housing options. With 17 locations across Ontario, RYPM provides newcomers with diverse living options, allowing them to choose neighborhoods based on affordability and community ties.

Recognized for its customer-centric approach, RYPM also benefits immigrant property owners through its Tenant Placement program, which pairs landlords with pre-screened tenants and maintenance technicians. This system reduces vacancy periods, ensuring owners can start earning income within 7-10 business days. By offering these integrated services, Levinson believes RYPM helps immigrants transition smoothly into the housing market, securing affordable homes while navigating Ontario’s complex rental environment.

Understanding legal responsibilities is another challenge for immigrants. Unlike many property management firms, RYPM offers legal support, helping newcomers comprehend their rights and obligations under local laws, such as Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act.

Are Immigrants to Blame for Rising Housing Costs?

As Canada’s housing affordability crisis continues, many immigrants feel unfairly blamed for rising housing costs, with home ownership becoming an increasingly distant dream. A recent OMNI poll revealed that nearly 70% of new Canadians believe politicians are using immigration as a scapegoat for housing issues while overlooking government policies and economic factors.

Based on more than a decade of experience in property management, Nathan Levinson does not believe immigrants are responsible for Ontario’s rising housing costs. He sees the surge in demand—driven partly by high immigration levels—as one factor exacerbating an already strained market. Levinson points to other contributing factors, such as high mortgage rates, limited housing supply, and slow construction.

While immigrants contribute to increased demand for rentals, they are not the root cause of housing challenges. As Canada continues to welcome newcomers, the role of companies like Royal York Property Management in managing the housing market’s impact will become even more critical.

Ultimately, addressing housing affordability will require a balanced approach—combining smart immigration policies with efforts to boost housing supply.

This ensures that all Canadians, whether newcomers or long-time residents, can achieve their housing dreams.

Article published in LA ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY