More than 400 people entered a lottery to buy land in Whitehorse, indicating the severity of the city’s housing shortage.

There were only a few winners Tuesday out of more than 400 people who paid a $500 deposit in order to enter to win the chance to buy one of 19 building lots.

Councillor Florence Roberts said the city is aware of the deficient lot situation but said there are no immediate solutions to the lack of available land.

Roberts, who drew the names in front of an audience of about 40 people, acknowledged that not everyone would be pleased with the results of the draw.

“When you've got that many people for 19 lots there's got to be a way we can satisfy the market, but it isn't going to happen this year,” Roberts said.

Ian Pumphrey was one of the people who entered the lottery and didn’t win. He had hoped to buy a new property in order to build another home for his growing family.

However, he is worried about potential developers making a profit by this lottery system.

“If someone obtained a lot they could turn around and sell it which in turn increases the value of the lot.”

Harry Kulych was a lottery player who didn't win what he had hoped.

"There just aren't enough lots available for the people," Kulych said.

The winners of the land lottery will have until the end of next week to make payment arrangements for building lots that range from around $100,000 to $180,000.