Our appreciation of homeownership paths

Exploring the barriers Ontarians face when entering the housing market and their understanding of alternative paths to homeownership

Anthony Piscitelli, Conestoga Social Innovation Lab

About the project

Researcher Anthony Piscitelli from Conestoga’s Social Innovation Lab partnered with Ourboro, a social purpose organization focused on alternative pathways to homeownership, to examine the challenges Ontarians experience when trying to purchase a home. The study also explored awareness of models such as shared equity, co-ownership, and rent-to-own.

The challenge

Rising barriers to homeownership have made purchasing a home increasingly difficult for many Ontarians. Alternative ownership models may provide additional pathways into the housing market, but understanding of these options and the barriers prospective buyers experience can influence their effectiveness.

Approach

• Surveyed Ontario residents about their experiences and perceptions of homeownership
• Examined awareness of shared equity, co-ownership, and rent-to-own models
• Compared barriers experienced by homeowners when purchasing their first home with those currently experienced by renters
• Collected open-ended responses to better understand participants’ experiences
• Analyzed findings to identify opportunities for alternative homeownership models

Results

• Generated insights into barriers Ontarians face when pursuing homeownership
• Assessed public understanding of alternative homeownership models
• Provided findings to help Ourboro better understand the needs of prospective homeowners
• Presented results to real estate professionals at an event organized by Ourboro
• Shared findings at the Association of Non Profit and Social Economy Research 2023 conference

Why it matters

• Improves understanding of barriers to homeownership in Ontario
• Provides insight into awareness of alternative pathways to owning a home
• Helps organizations develop services that better reflect the needs of prospective homeowners
• Supports evidence-informed discussions about housing affordability and accessibility
• Contributes to research on innovative approaches to homeownership

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