This is real, I have heard recent immigrants reconsidering their move to Canada, mostly because of the housing market.
I came to Canada a relatively long time ago, and in general things can seem expensive here. With housing, I was fortunate to get in at the right time before it exploded so badly, but my experience is more with trades like plumbers, electricians, driveway repair people, equipment installers etc., or even other workers like cleaners.
Where I come from, these services were extremely cheap, because of the extreme inequality between the rich and poor. You could have a basic degree, and have services like the above at a whim, without giving it a second thought.
Here in Canada, I constantly find it expensive that getting some tradesperson to do work at my house, can easily leave me with a few thousand dollars less.
I think the key to remember is that we have less inequality here, and it is better for society in general for those folks to make the same wage as me. This has also helped me cultivate a fondness for DIY stuff, which allows me to spend less on trades, learn new things, get a sense of accomplishment, and I don't need as many other hobbies which involve spending money.