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I live in Vancouver. I rent half an old house built in 1941 on a big lot.

It sold twice recently, within a couple months, by the same realtor. They always collect the rent in cash, never issue a receipt. I know a racket when I see one, so I had to figure it out.

First, somebody buys a house in cash but puts it in somebody else's name, like a child or spouse. They get lots of mail sent there. This is to establish primary residence exemption on capital gains when the house is sold. They make it look like that person is living there, when it's actually being rented. Two untaxed sources of income: undeclared cash rental income and the inevitable capital gains on the sale.

As far as investments go, its a sure win. And I have reason to believe I'm renting one of these properties. It happens to work out well for me though cause rents pretty reasonable.



Sounds to me the rent could be a lot more reasonable with a 5 min conversation.


> They always collect the rent in cash, never issue a receipt. I know a racket when I see one

Do you see that by not requiring a receipt you're helping that racket?




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