Toronto in Transition: Smart Building Strategies for a Cooling Market and Evolving Legislation

Toronto is entering a pivotal phase in its built environment, where the confluence of legislative changes, a cooling housing market, and long-awaited transit expansions is reshaping how we approach development. As developers and homeowners rethink project strategies, RIISE Building Inc. has a unique opportunity to lead with insight, responsiveness, and innovation.

The Cooling Market: A Strategic Opening?

Recent data paints a nuanced picture of Toronto’s real estate landscape. In June 2025, home sales reached a five-month high, up 8.1% month-over-month. Yet, this surge in activity comes as home prices continue a downward trend, with the index down 0.9% to approximately C$978,200. (Reuters)

Adding to this complexity, construction employment remains fragile, and housing starts in Ontario plunged nearly 25% year-over-year in the first half of 2025. (Fraser Institute)

Why this matters: This dynamic market presents a strategic opening for well-managed infill and small-scale projects. For RIISE clients, it's an opportunity to achieve significant value without sacrificing quality, particularly as buyers prioritize affordability.

Legislation That’s Reshaping The Build Landscape

The Protect Ontario by Building Faster and Smarter Act (2025) is set to significantly influence the development process. This legislation limits municipal ability to exceed provincial codes, including certain green building standards, and delays development charges until occupancy. (constructconnect.com, City of Toronto, Wikipedia)

Why this matters: These changes could influence how RIISE balances sustainability priorities with crucial cost and timeline efficiencies. By proactively navigating this evolving regulatory framework, RIISE is empowered to deliver compliant, smart solutions even under changing legislative climates, ensuring projects remain on track and within budget.

Transit Infrastructure: A Construction Compass

Major transit infrastructure projects continue to move forward, acting as a compass for future development:

• Line 5 Eglinton (Crosstown LRT) may open as early as late 2025, with Metrolinx currently conducting stress tests and resolving vehicle availability issues. (Wikipedia) This long-awaited line promises to transform connectivity across the city.

Why this matters: New transit infrastructure often drives localized demand for both residential and commercial properties. RIISE can advise clients on prime opportunity zones or plan builds that strategically integrate with future transit-oriented developments, maximizing long-term value.

The RIISE Advantage: Smarter Builds for a Shifting Market

In today's Toronto, understanding these interconnected shifts is key to successful development.

Insight	Strategic Opportunity
Softening Market Conditions	Offer value-driven project packages and smaller residential models that capitalize on buyer affordability.
Legislative Impact	Incorporate compliance early and advise on green strategies that withstand diminished municipal flexibility.
Transit Timelines	Guide clients towards transit-adjacent developments that anticipate rising neighbourhood demand and future-proof their investments.

At RIISE Building Inc., we combine deep local knowledge, regulatory foresight, and responsible design to deliver client-first results in this shifting environment. We are committed to helping our clients navigate Toronto’s exciting transition with confidence, building smarter and stronger for the city’s next chapter.

Ready to navigate Toronto’s evolving landscape with a partner you can trust? Let’s build your next project with foresight and precision. Contact RIISE Building Inc. today to discuss your vision.

Phone: 647 695 2025

Email: info@riisebuilding.ca