In a real estate climate where more and more people are beginning to despair of ever being able to afford to own their own home, a new proposed 230 unit housing development for Crofton comes as a breath of fresh air.
Crofton has long been a slightly more affordable haven for young families and retirees looking for a beautiful seaside village in which to live. The proximity to the Catalyst mill has kept housing prices a little lower than in, say, comparably picturesque areas like Maple Bay or Cobble Hill.
But even this hidden gem is beginning to be discovered, with house prices rising and more and more infilling of vacant lots happening all the time.
Many smaller-scale subdivisions have already gone in over the last decade on larger lots subdivided for the purpose.
But the latest proposal is a subdivision on a much grander scale. We’re happy to see that the developer isn’t just looking to chock-a-block mega-houses, but instead will devote at least part of the planned 14.6 hectare, 12-phase neighbourhood to affordable housing. After one gets over the fact that affordable housing these days means anything under $300,000, it’s very welcome news. It’s in keeping with what the community is now, and what our larger Cowichan Valley area is so desperately in need of.
A home of a little less than 600 square feet won’t be to everyone’s tastes, but we can see it appealing to a variety of buyers, for more than just price.
Many seniors do not want to have to take care of thousands of square feet. Ditto for singles and even couples who like to spend their time on things other than housework (outdoors, travel, etc.).
Not a lot of these types of homes are currently being built as developers often look to square footage to maximize profits.
But diversity in housing stock will help to keep the community vibrant and thriving. Perhaps a success here can inspire copycats in other areas of the Cowichan Valley.