Posted on
May 15, 2025
by
Marie Taverna
302-932 Robinson Street Coquitlam BC $599,999.00 “The Shaughnessy” in West Coquitlam. Top floor condo unit has 2 bedrooms & 2 baths. Be impressed with the 15+ feet vaulted ceiling in the living room & wood burning fireplace. The living room & dining room are perfect spot for entertaining friends. Cute kitchen / Stainless Steel fridge & stove. Good size primary bedroom with walkthrough closet to in suite laundry. The 4-piece bath & a 2-piece bath flow together. Easy care tile floors thought most of unit. In suite storage or reno to a cute little office. Second bedroom or den. Enjoy many hours in the summer on your balcony among the tall trees. Centrally located to transit & shopping. SkyTrain is a short stroll away. Flat walking neighbourhood. 1 underground parking spot. Move in before Summer
Posted on
May 15, 2025
by
Marie Taverna
anadian housing starts rose by 30 per cent to 278,606 units in April at a seasonally adjusted annual rate (SAAR). Starts were up 15 per cent from the same month last year. Single-detached housing starts increased by 15 per cent from last month at 57,026 units, while multi-family and other starts rose by 35 per cent to 221,582 units (SAAR).
In British Columbia, starts rose by 71 per cent from last month to 53,195 units (SAAR) in all areas of the province. In areas of the province with 10,000 or more residents, single-detached starts decreased by 5 per cent to 3,582 units, while multi-family starts rose by 87 per cent to 47,499 units month-over-month. Starts in the province were 3 per cent below the levels from April 2024. Year-to-date starts are up by 141 per cent in Abbotsford, but down 78 per cent in Nanaimo, 30 per cent in Kelowna, 29 per cent in Victoria, and 25 per cent in Vancouver.
https://mailchi.mp/bcrea/canadian-housing-starts-april-2025
Posted on
May 13, 2025
by
Marie Taverna
“The Shaughnessy” in West Coquitlam. Top floor condo unit has 2 bedrooms & 2 baths. Be impressed with the 15+ feet vaulted ceiling in the living room & wood burning fireplace. The living room & dining room are perfect spot for entertaining friends. Cute kitchen / Stainless Steel fridge & stove. Good size primary bedroom with walkthrough closet to in suite laundry. The 4-piece bath & a 2-piece bath flow together. Easy care tile floors thought most of unit. In suite storage or reno to a cute little office. Second bedroom or den. Enjoy many hours in the summer on your balcony among the tall trees. Centrally located to transit & shopping. SkyTrain is a short stroll away. Flat walking neighbourhood. 1 underground parking spot. Move in Spring 2025! OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY MAY 17th 12:00 to 2:00pm
Posted on
May 8, 2025
by
Marie Taverna
SURREY, BC – Home buyers in the Fraser Valley are enjoying a selection of homes for sale not seen in more than a decade. The growing inventory of more than 10,000 active listings means, in many cases, that buyers have time, selection and price negotiation on their side. “There’s definitely a surge of activity in the market — buyers are out viewing homes and attending open houses,” said Tore Jacobsen, Chair of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board. “What’s noticeable in the current market is the level of choice. A buyer might see a home they like and then have an opportunity to tour five or ten more just like it, without feeling rushed to make an immediate offer.” However, despite the abundance of listings and potential buying opportunities, spring sales remain sluggish. The Fraser Valley Real Estate Board recorded 1,043 sales on its Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in April, up one per cent from March and down 29 per cent year over year. New listings declined slightly in April, down one per cent from March. The overall sales-to-active listings ratio indicates a buyer’s market in the Fraser Valley, with a ratio of 10 per cent. The market is considered to be balanced when the ratio is between 12 per cent and 20 per cent. Across the Fraser Valley in April, the average number of days to sell a single-family detached home was 32, while for both townhomes and condos it was slightly lower at 29 days. “Tariffs and economic uncertainty continue to weigh heavily on the minds of home buyers in the Fraser Valley,” said Baldev Gill, CEO of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board. “However, with the federal election now behind us and a new administration in place, there’s cautious optimism that a fresh approach to strengthening the economy could be on the way, which is welcome news for the real estate sector.” The composite Benchmark price in the Fraser Valley decreased 0.2 per cent in April, to $972,700. To read the full statistics package, click here.
Posted on
May 8, 2025
by
Marie Taverna
The air is warmer, the days are getting longer, and after an exceptionally snowy winter, the grass is finally starting to reveal itself. Spring officially is upon us, which means that all of that snow is starting to melt. As the spring makes its arrival, be sure to take these important steps to protect your home and prevent major water damage during the seasonal thaw. Inspect your home’s foundationAs temperatures rise, melting snow can lead to water pooling around the base of your home, increasing the risk of leaks, cracks and basement flooding. To redirect water runoff, clear away any snow and ice from your home’s foundation, including window wells, basement entrances and exterior vents. Patch up cracksTake a closer look at your home’s exterior. Seal and repair any cracks in your walls, foundation and around windows, to ensure moisture does not penetrate the building. If you discover a leak, even a small one, consider contacting a professional. What seems like a small issue can escalate quickly into major water damage, which is often costly and complicated to repair. Staying proactive now can save you time, money and stress down the road. Clean out your drains and eavesthroughsClear out built-up ice and debris from your eavestroughs and downspouts. This is an integral part of your home’s water draining system, and if the flow is clogged, it can result in major damage. If there is a drain on the street near your property, be sure to clear any leaves and garbage away from the grate so melting snow from the road can flow freely. Regularly checking and clearing your gutters ensures water is directed safely away from your home. Also, don’t forget the street-side drains. If there’s a storm drain near your property, make sure the grate is free of leaves, ice and garbage. These clogs can prevent melting snow and rainwater from draining properly, potentially causing water to back up onto your property or into your basement. Beware of overhead leaksIf your roof is in need of repair, this is likely the time of year when those issues reveal themselves. As snow and ice begin to melt, you may start to notice water spots forming on your ceilings – one of the clearest signs that water is seeping in through damaged or aging roofing materials. Don’t forget to check for leaks in the attic as well. Look for damp insulation, water staining on beams or a musty smell. Early detection is key, and addressing roof issues now can help you avoid more extensive and costly repairs down the line. Check up on your home systemsBefore you turn on the air conditioning for the first time this season, take a few minutes to inspect the unit and ensure it’s functioning properly. Look for any visible signs of wear, debris buildup or damage to the outdoor unit, and test the system to confirm its cooling efficiently. This seasonal check-in is also a great time to tackle a few other important maintenance tasks, such as replacing the furnace filter and changing the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. These small steps go a long way in keeping your home comfortable, efficient and safe year-round. Review your insurance coverageSpring thaw can bring increased risk of flooding, water damage and sewer backups – especially in areas with heavy snow accumulation or older drainage systems. It’s a good idea to review your home insurance policy to make sure you’re covered for the types of damage that commonly occur during a thaw. Standard homeowner policies don’t always include flood protection or sewer backup coverage by default. If your basement floods due to melting snow or if stormwater overwhelms the municipal system and backs up into your home, you could be on the hook for repairs unless you’ve added this coverage. Reach out to your insurance provider or broker to go over your current policy and make sure you’re protected. Look for these key add-ons in your policy, such as overland water coverage, sewer backup coverage and sump pump failure. A small monthly premium can save you thousands in potential damage and restoration costs. For more on how to prepare your home for the season, check out our Spring Cleaning 101 blog post.
Posted on
May 8, 2025
by
Marie Taverna
The arrival of warmer weather and longer days is a welcome sign for many Canadians – especially those eager to return to their cottages. With the Victoria Day long weekend fast approaching (often seen as the unofficial start of summer), thousands are preparing to unlock the cabin doors and breathe new life into their seasonal properties. But before you can fully relax at the lakeside, there’s a bit of work to be done. If your cottage was unoccupied during the winter months, it’s important to give it the care and attention it needs to ensure a safe and comfortable season ahead. Here are a few helpful tips to make reopening your cottage as smooth as possible. Start the reopening process before you arriveA successful cottage reopening starts before you even set foot on the property. In the weeks leading up to your trip, take time to reconnect with service providers and double-check key maintenance items. Contact your utility companies to reinstate services like electricity, internet, propane and gas. If you paused trash collection or water delivery, now’s the time to get those back in motion. Schedule a chimney sweep and, if your property has a septic tank or outhouse, book a cleaning or inspection to make sure everything’s functioning safely. Also take a moment to review your cottage insurance policy, as well as coverage for boats, trailers or recreational vehicles. Make sure everything is up to date before opening weekend. Don’t forget to pack your reopening essentials: keys, tools, cleaning supplies, flashlights, batteries, light bulbs, and even pest control products can save you an unexpected trip into town. Take a walk around the propertyUpon arrival, do a thorough walk about your lot to look for signs of weather damage. Inspect the roof for missing shingles, blocked gutters, leaks or any branches that may have fallen during the winter. On the ground, keep an eye out for signs of rot on your deck or siding, broken windows or wildlife that may have made their way indoors during the winter. Once inside, inspect your cottage for dampness, pests or unpleasant odours. Get some fresh air running through your cottage and flush out any stale smells by opening all of the windows and doors. This is also a good opportunity to look for any mould or mildew that may be lurking around window sills and entryways. If there is any serious damage to the property, be sure to alert your insurance provider immediately. Safely restore water and powerWhen your initial inspection is complete, it’s time to restore your essential utilities. For water, start by checking that pipes are intact and free of cracks caused by freezing. Reconnect any pipes that were disconnected in the fall, then proceed to fill your water heater and replace filters if needed. Once the main water valve is turned on, allow water to run through a tap to flush the lines. Keep in mind: some cottages rely on lake-drawn water or well systems, which may require extra care or professional servicing. Before flipping on the power, inspect your electrical meter and exterior power lines for signs of damage. Once you’re in the clear, turn on the main breaker and test appliances, outlets and lights room by room to make sure everything is running smoothly. Get your outdoor spaces summer-readyDon’t forget to give your exterior living spaces some love. After months of snow, your yard, dock, and deck will likely need some cleanup before they’re ready for prime time. Rake up fallen branches, leaves and debris from your lawn and garden beds. Trim overgrown shrubs and inspect trees for hanging limbs that could pose a safety risk. Check your dock for loose boards, exposed nails or signs of water damage, and make necessary repairs before jumping in. Wipe down your outdoor furniture and inspect it for rust or wear. Bring out your BBQ or firepit, giving them a proper cleaning before use. If you store kayaks, paddleboards or canoes on-site, this is a good time to inspect them for cracks or mildew and refresh safety gear like lifejackets and paddles. Adding fresh outdoor lighting or planting flowers can also help make your cottage feel inviting from day one. Restock the essentialsBefore you officially break out the Muskoka chairs and settle in, remember to check those smaller to-do items off your list. Ensure that your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors have fresh batteries and replace the filter in your central air system if you have one. Don’t forget to refill fire extinguishers and top up the first aid kit with new supplies before you kick back and relax. Looking for insights into Canada’s most popular cottage country markets? Check out the latest findings in the Royal LePage 2025 Spring Recreational Property Report.
Posted on
May 8, 2025
by
Marie Taverna
The slowdown in home sales registered on the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in Metro Vancouver* that began early this year continued in April, with sales down nearly 24 per cent year-over-year. SalesThe Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR) reports that residential sales in the region totalled 2,163 in April 2025, a 23.6 per cent decrease from the 2,831 sales recorded in April 2024. This was 28.2 per cent below the 10-year seasonal average (3,014). "From a historical perspective, the slower sales we’re now seeing stand out as unusual, particularly against a backdrop of significantly improved borrowing conditions, which typically helps to boost sales. What’s also unusual is starting the year with Canada’s largest trading partner threatening to tilt our economy into recession via trade policy, while at the same time having Canadians head to the polls to elect a new federal government. These issues have been hard to ignore, and the April home sales figures suggest some buyers have continued to patiently wait out the storm." Andrew Lis, GVR director of economics and data analytics ListingsThere were 6,850 detached, attached and apartment properties newly listed for sale on the MLS® in Metro Vancouver in April 2025. This represents a 3.4 per cent decrease compared to the 7,092 properties listed in April 2024 and was 19.5 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average (5,731) for the month. The total number of properties currently listed for sale on the MLS® system in Metro Vancouver is 16,207, a 29.7 per cent increase compared to April 2024 (12,491). This is 47.6 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average (10,979). Sales-to-active listings ratioAcross all detached, attached and apartment property types, the sales-to-active listings ratio for April 2025 is 13.8 per cent. By property type, the ratio is 9.9 per cent for detached homes, 17.5 per cent for attached, and 15.7 per cent for apartments. Analysis of the historical data suggests downward pressure on home prices occurs when the ratio dips below 12 per cent for a sustained period, while home prices often experience upward pressure when it surpasses 20 per cent over several months. “While the headlines have been filled with worrying news lately, there are positives in the current market worth highlighting, especially for buyers,” Lis said. “Inventory levels have just crested 16,000 for the first time since 2014, prices have stayed fairly stable for the past few months, and borrowing costs are the lowest they’ve been in years. These factors benefit buyers, and with balanced conditions across the market overall, there’s plenty of opportunity for anyone looking to make a purchase.” MLS® HPIThe MLS® Home Price Index composite benchmark price for all residential properties in Metro Vancouver is currently $1,184,500. This represents a 1.8 per cent decrease over April 2024 and a 0.5 per cent decrease compared to March 2025. Sales of detached homes in April 2025 reached 578, a 29 per cent decrease from the 814 detached sales recorded in April 2024. The benchmark price for a detached home is $2,021,800. This represents a 0.7 per cent decrease from April 2024 and a 0.6 per cent decrease compared to March 2025. Sales of apartment homes reached 1,130 in April 2025, a 20.2 per cent decrease compared to the 1,416 sales in April 2024. The benchmark price of an apartment home is $762,800. This represents a two per cent decrease from April 2024 and a 0.6 per cent decrease compared to March 2025. Attached home sales in April 2025 totalled 442, a 23.8 per cent decrease compared to the 580 sales in April 2024. The benchmark price of a townhouse is $1,102,300. This represents a 2.9 per cent decrease from April 2024 and a one per cent decrease compared to March 2025. Download the April 2025 Housing Report * Areas covered by Greater Vancouver REALTORS® include: Bowen Island, Burnaby, Coquitlam, Maple Ridge, New Westminster, North Vancouver, Pitt Meadows, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Richmond, South Delta, Squamish, Sunshine Coast, Vancouver, West Vancouver, and Whistler.
Posted on
May 8, 2025
by
Marie Taverna
Exquisite, flawlessly renovated residence in the prestigious Montreux, Westwood Plateau. Immaculate 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom with a spacious, bright, open layout, offering serene south-facing views. A tranquil, private sanctuary. Elegant gas fireplace included in the maint. fees. Sliding doors lead to your exclusive patio, perfect for entertaining. The gourmet kitchen boasts ample cabinetry and premium stainless steel appliances. 2 pets allowed w/ no size or weight restrictions. The community offers resort-style amenities: outdoor pool, Jacuzzi, fitness center, and a dedicated pet area. Lushly landscaped relaxation zones. Ideally located, with top-tier schools, shopping, IGA, fine dining, banking, Starbucks, and more just steps away.
Posted on
May 8, 2025
by
Marie Taverna
Welcome to Bradley House at Windsor Gate. The lovely & very well-care for 2 bed & 2 bath condo is move in ready. From the moment you walk in you feel like your home. Gourmet kitchen with gas range, SS appliances, gleaming white cabinets & stone countertops. The living room & dining area are perfect for entertaining friends. Great balcony for warm weather chilling. Relax in the primary bedroom after a long day. 5-piece ensuite with double sinks. 3-piece main bath. In suite laundry. Enjoy the Nakoma Club, with fitness gym, basketball court, pool, hot tub, billiards table, party room & so much more. Minutes away from transit, park, coffee shop, schools, shopping. Make a date to view this home and make it yours.
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