How Edmonton residents are using restrictive covenants to block infill housing
A real estate agent has purchased half a dozen properties slated for multi-unit development, placing covenants to prevent them from being built.
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A growing debate over Edmonton's infill development is playing out through restrictive covenants—legally binding agreements that limit how property can be used after sale—with homeowners and some developers using them to block multi-unit housing.
Terry Paranych, a real estate agent and developer, has purchased approximately half a dozen Edmonton properties slated for multi-unit infill in less than a year, replacing planned developments with single-family homes. In the McQueen neighbourhood near 146 Street and 110 Avenue, a lot that was slated for an eightplex is now undergoing different redevelopment. "This is a very quiet residential street. It's a one-entry crescent with a beautiful green space and the community was very, very concerned about it," Paranych said.
Paranych's former client contacted him with concerns about the multi-unit development. After negotiating with the developer, Paranych purchased the property and plans to build a 2,500-square-foot, two-storey urban craftsman-style home with four bedrooms, a veranda, attached double garage, and large backyard. "We care about the community, so I reached out to this particular developer and we had discussion. After some debate, he agreed to sell it to me. We're very happy and proud to be putting a beautiful single-family home here—and that's what belongs," Paranych said.
Paranych has also purchased properties from neighbours moving away. When one neighbour was relocating overseas and listed the house, a developer made an offer. Paranych stepped in instead. "Purchased it and we put a covenant on it, and sold it to a nice young family," Paranych said.
Restrictive covenants have been used in Edmonton for over 100 years on residential and commercial properties. Glenora, established in the 1910s, has restrictive covenants in some sections called the Carruthers Caveat, named after the businessman who sold the land and restricted it to single-family homes on wide, expansive lots.
The provincial government has begun drawing attention to Edmonton's infill development approach, and the debate centres on whether these covenants and property purchases undermine the city's zoning rules allowing multi-unit housing.
The facts
Who is Terry Paranych?
Terry Paranych is a real estate agent and developer who has purchased approximately half a dozen Edmonton properties that were slated for multi-unit infill development.
How many properties has Terry Paranych purchased for infill sites?
Paranych has purchased approximately half a dozen Edmonton properties slated for multi-unit infill in less than a year.
What is planned for the McQueen neighbourhood property?
The McQueen property, which was slated for an eightplex, is now being redeveloped as a 2,500-square-foot, two-storey urban craftsman-style single-family home with four bedrooms, a veranda, attached double garage, and large backyard.
How long have restrictive covenants been used in Edmonton?
Restrictive covenants have been used in Edmonton for over 100 years on residential and commercial properties.
