Ontario Construction News staff writer
The Ontario government is partnering with the City of Toronto and Habitat for Humanity GTA to build 33 modular homes in a six-storey condominium building at 355 Coxwell Avenue. This site was identified by the City of Toronto as part of its commitment under the Ontario-Toronto New Deal to make use of surplus properties appropriate for the construction of below-market, attainable modular homes.
Lessons learned through the construction of this building will inform the ongoing work the province and its partners are doing to support modular homebuilding in Ontario and keep the dream of homeownership alive.
“This project serves as a blueprint for how multi-level government collaboration with non-profits and the private sector can create homes that bring lasting affordability for working families in this city,” said Ene Underwood, CEO, Habitat for Humanity Greater Toronto Area. “The parents, children, and future generations who will call this place home will thrive, living in quality housing close to schools, transit, parks and more. The surrounding community will be stronger, more diverse, and more equitable as a result—and that benefits us all.”
Home prices at 355 Coxwell Avenue will be set to reflect amounts that are attainable for households with income between the 60th and 70th percentile in the City of Toronto. Homes will be sold at fair market value with a maximum purchaser contribution of $500,000 in 2025, indexed to future annual inflation levels.
“Homes need to be more affordable,” said Olivia Chow, Mayor of Toronto. “That is why the City is investing more than $4.8 million to build 33 modular homes and keep expanding affordable housing across Toronto. This partnership with Habitat for Humanity and the province shows what we can achieve when we work together.”
Preparations for construction are currently underway at the Coxwell site. Sales are expected to begin early next year, with the homes ready for occupancy by mid 2027.
Ontario is investing $10 million in this project. Of the 33 modular homes, 22 will be large enough to accommodate families.
Habitat for Humanity GTA will be responsible for reviewing applications from potential homebuyers, determining eligibility and administering sales.
As part of the Toronto New Deal, Ontario is providing Toronto with up to $1.2 billion in operating supports over three years. Additionally, to date, Toronto has been awarded $181.2 million through the Building Faster Fund.
“Ontario is continuing to take action to build more homes faster and help people find a home that meets their needs and their budgets,” said Rob Flack, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. “This innovative project will help drive forward our plans to support Ontario’s modular homebuilding industry and make use of surplus government lands to get more shovels in the ground.”