As real estate prices soar in Waterloo Region, some turning to alternative methods

By Martin Bauman

With real estate prices rising and showing no signs of slowing, some in Waterloo Region are turning to other methods.

According to the Kitchener-Waterloo Association of Realtors, detached homes sold for an average price of $549,691 in February, up over 30 percent from the same time in 2016.

“It’s a similar story throughout Ontario’s Greater Golden Horseshoe,” says KWAR President James Craig in a release.

“In their January release, the Canadian Real Estate Association called the region’s imbalance between limited housing supply and robust demand without precedent.”

With the cost rising, some are opting to buy in with friends — something Mark Brubacher and his wife Allison did four years ago, splitting a home with two other friends.

Part of the drive, says Brubacher, came from a desire to have a smaller footprint.

“The idea of just having to have less. We have one washer and drier versus two, one lawnmower, we have communal meals each week,” says Brubacher.

He adds that although there may have been a fear at first that it could hurt their friendship, overall it has been positive.

“It’s been nice to share our experience,” says Brubacher.

“Sure, there’s times when you really want your space, but I do see it as an extension of your relationship. It’s a few other adults in the house to go to when you have issues; it’s a few other adults and kids in the house to share your highs and your lows with.”