Housing isn’t just shaped by the real estate market — it’s also deeply influenced by local government decisions. The 2026 Proposed Operating Budget from County of Brant offers valuable insight into how housing, development, and property ownership will be supported in the coming year. Read The Full Brant County Proposed Budget Here
Here’s what homeowners, buyers, and investors should know.
The County continues to invest in affordable housing, including the operation of municipally owned housing such as Russell Heights. The budget includes funding for ongoing costs like utilities, property taxes, and day-to-day operations.
What this means:
Affordable housing remains a long-term focus, helping to support residents who may be priced out of the current market while contributing to overall housing stability.
Property taxes are increasing in 2026. For a typical residential home assessed at the median value, homeowners can expect an increase of about 5%.
Why this matters:
Homeowners should factor this into annual ownership costs
Investors may see increased operating expenses
Landlords often feel pressure to offset rising costs through rent increases
Understanding these changes helps buyers plan realistically and avoid surprises after closing.
The budget shows increased funding for planning, development engineering, and building services — the departments responsible for zoning, permits, and inspections.
This signals:
Continued residential growth
New subdivisions and infill projects
Ongoing demand for housing across Brant County
For buyers, this can mean more inventory over time. For sellers and investors, it reflects confidence in long-term growth.
Housing doesn’t exist in isolation. The County is also investing heavily in:
Roads and transportation
Water and wastewater systems
Stormwater management
These services are essential for new housing approvals and neighbourhood expansion.
Bottom line:
Strong infrastructure investment supports sustainable housing growth and protects long-term property values.
Beyond housing, the County manages a large portfolio of buildings and land — including community facilities, recreational spaces, and municipal properties. The budget includes funding for maintenance, utilities, and capital upgrades.
This behind-the-scenes investment helps keep public spaces functional, safe, and financially sustainable — which directly impacts the communities we live in.
The 2026 budget paints a clear picture:
Housing affordability remains a challenge, but a priority
Ownership costs are rising and should be planned for
Development and growth are continuing across the County
Infrastructure investment supports long-term market stability
If you’re thinking about buying, selling, or investing in Brant County, understanding these broader forces can help you make smarter, more confident decisions. Contact us below!
Read The Full Brant County Proposed Budget Here
