Some HMLs have lending restrictions by state.

Odds are your newer builds are on the outskirts of a city into the suburbs where people fight to get a property if it’s affordable.

Another thing, the threads move down the forums rather quickly because it's so busy, so the odds of your post being seen for long by very many people is minimal. 

Paint, carpet, light fixtures, maybe some doors, plus odds and ends - you'll learn a lot!

Hey @Jonathan Vinas, @JD Martin hit the nail on the head.You are better off looking in areas with no restrictions if you can.I will say that some of the restrictions might be able to manage.

Of course, the area is generally the same, but sometimes you have these odd ones.

Solar panels may qualify for the 30% federal energy credit, and advertising expenses, like adding your company’s logo, are deductible.However, Section 280A restricts deductions for any dwelling unit used as a residence for more than 14 days annually, even if partially used for business.

You're right in saying it's making me feel uncomfortable asking them to pay (which sounds odd).

An HOA can easily restrict someone trying that strategy. 

Both permits often have restrictions on the industry the holder cannot engage in.- The holder of a work permit does effectively become a tax resident as far as the CRA (Canadian Revenue Agency) is concerned at which point they will qualify for certain things such as purchase a house without being considered as the foreign buyer; hence, foreign ban hammer not weighing on them.