Jeff Messina and his wife struggled to afford a home in Metro Vancouver’s high housing market, but their dream was realized through an Indigenous-led housing development on Tsawwassen First Nation land. Homes in this development were priced significantly lower than the regional average, offering affordable leasehold properties where the land remains under First Nation ownership. They purchased a home in 2013, moving in two years later. This type of housing, with 40- to 99-year leasehold agreements, is becoming increasingly popular as it allows buyers access to desirable neighborhoods at a fraction of the cost of traditional freehold homes.
Other First Nations are leading similar housing projects across Canada, including Sen̓áḵw on Squamish Nation land in Vancouver and the Taza project on Tsuut’ina Nation land near Calgary. These developments are seen as a way to address housing shortages while also fostering Indigenous economic growth.
Although leasehold homes don’t include ownership of the land, they provide an affordable entry into homeownership, especially for first-time buyers and retirees. For Tsawwassen First Nation, the revenue from property taxes helps fund infrastructure and community services, promoting both reconciliation and sustainable growth for the Indigenous community. Residents like Bernadette Kudzin appreciate the sense of community and cultural connection, alongside the affordable homes.
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