Real estate broker and industry leader Michelle Kam is calling for improved consumer education and support as Canada continues its significant transition toward dense urban living. With condos, lofts, and townhomes dominating new construction in major cities, Kam stresses that buyers, sellers, and policymakers must better understand how these changes impact long-term housing stability and affordability.
Kam, who has extensive experience across high-end resale, urban housing, pre-construction, and brokerage leadership, observes that the way Canadians live has transformed faster than public understanding of the market. "People want to live where they work and socialise," she stated in a recent interview. "But with that demand comes pressure. Buyers need clearer guidance, and cities need smarter planning to keep up."
More than 70% of new homes built in Toronto are condos according to municipal data, while high-density housing across Canada has increased by over 30% in the past decade. This shift is driven by population growth, immigration, and limited land supply in major urban centers. Kam views this not merely as a market trend but as a social and economic reality requiring greater transparency and education.
"Housing is no longer just about space—it's about lifestyle, community, and access," Kam explained, noting how consumer priorities have evolved. She highlights that many buyers feel unprepared when entering the condo or pre-construction market, often hesitating to ask basic questions about condo fees or floor plans. "No one should feel embarrassed for not understanding condo fees or floor plans. We need to normalise education for every level of buyer."
Kam advocates for practical, accessible housing knowledge, emphasizing that education—not hype—protects consumers in a fast-moving market. Her experience selling pre-construction units reinforced this perspective. "Helping someone picture their life in a home that isn't built yet is a big responsibility," she said. "I once told a buyer exactly how the morning sun would hit their balcony. It made everything feel real to them. That's what people need—clear, grounded information that helps them make confident choices."
The urgency of this issue is underscored by several factors. Urban areas like Toronto are projected to grow by more than 500,000 residents by 2030, increasing demand for dense housing. Meanwhile, condo fees in major Canadian cities have risen by over 10% in the last two years, raising affordability and transparency concerns. Pre-construction delays affect thousands of buyers annually, highlighting the need for clearer communication and realistic expectations. "People don't just need listings—they need clarity," Kam emphasized. "The market is changing too fast for buyers to rely on guesswork."
Kam encourages Canadians to take proactive steps, such as learning basics about condo fees and building rules, visiting neighborhoods at different times to understand noise and traffic patterns, asking questions early about pre-construction timelines, focusing on lifestyle fit rather than just square footage, and staying informed about urban development plans. For more information, visit https://www.24-7pressrelease.com.
"You don't need to be an expert," Kam concluded. "You just need to be curious and proactive. Housing shapes our lives. The more we understand it, the better choices we can make."
