Our Project
Lynx Developments works with community partners to prepare land for the development of affordable housing in Waterloo Region.
We do this by acquiring the land, developing a masterplan, obtaining approvals, preparing the land for construction, and making the sites available to our community partners at affordable prices.
Here is a high-level look at the roles and the process involved.
Pre- Development
Acquire Land
Suitable land brought to market several times each year
Cost per acre decreases as lot size increases
Lower competition for larger lots
Co-design of Master Plan
Includes site plan, shared amenities, and design guidelines
Collaboration enables design cohesion & efficiencies
Prepare Land
Studies (wind, traffic), designs (preliminary architectural, landscaping), and municipal approvals
Establish vacant land condominium
Servicing, landscaping, and shared systems (e.g., parking, district heating)
Housing Partner Preparation
Affordable Parcel Sales
Housing providers raise funds (e.g., joint campaign / brand) over 2 yrs
Apply to CMHC in advance of ownership to reduce time & risk
Sale / title restrictions ensure construction and affordability targets met
Market Sales to Subsidize Affordability
A portion of parcels (e.g., higher density) sold to market developers to subsidize affordable housing providers
Prepare for Construction and Operations
Coordinate building designs
Consider for efficiencies in construction (e.g., joint tender, same architect) and operations (e.g., same landscaping or maintenance)
Invite market developer to join planning for increased efficiencies
Construction
Building Plans and Permits
Housing providers finalize building plans and permits
Lynx provides support (e.g., identify construction managers) to ensure success
Shovels in the Ground
14 - 18 months for construction (dependent upon height of building)
Each housing provider manages own construction (Lynx encourages collaboration and shared providers)
Operations and Reporting
Operate Buildings & Condominium
Housing providers serve target populations
Housing providers operate & maintain respective buildings, condominium operates & maintains common amenities and infrastructure
Report to Lynx
Housing partners report on outcomes on an annual basis for 10 years
