
The Only Canadian Real Estate Company with its own charity!

The Only Canadian Real Estate Company with its own charity!
Posted on
December 31, 2022
by
Marie Taverna
The Only Canadian Real Estate Company with its own charity!
Truthfully, after a year with the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation, that headline always delivers positive vibes! It makes me so proud to be associated with this brand. Many Royal LePagers admit that Shelter Foundation is one of the primary reasons they're with Royal LePage. With 2023 representing the 25th year of the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation, that headline, what it represents, and its impact on the lives of women and children leaving violent homes, inspires more and more Royal LePagers each and every year.
Ahead of 2023, Royal LePage professionals can look for a curated suite of assets associated with the Commission Donor Program. If you've been on the fence you'll definitely want to sign up to ensure you’re a part of this important group of fundraisers. We're also pumped to support 120 Royal LePagers heading to Ecuador for the 2023 Shelter Challenge. Spoiler Alert: we're really excited to share new and exciting plans on how you can engage with your Shelter Foundation in 2023 and beyond.
2023 is sure to be a remarkable year for the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation, where we'll amplify our commitment to strengthen the communities where we live and work. Why? Because, we're the Only Canadian Real Estate Company with its own charity, and the Royal LePage brand is stronger because of it.
On behalf of your Shelter Foundation Team, thank you for your kind and generous support in 2022 and three cheers, obviously, for 202-three!
With gratitude,
![]() Lisa Gibbs
Executive Director
Federal Government Releases Regulations on Prohibition on the Purchase of Residential Property by Non-Canadians Act
Posted on
December 31, 2022
by
Marie Taverna
On Wednesday, December 21, the federal government released the supporting regulations on the Prohibition on the Purchase of Residential Property by Non-Canadians Act (Foreign Buyers Ban) which includes definitions, exceptions, and enforcement elements to help individuals understand and comply with the law. The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) is extremely disappointed by the government’s decision to move forward with this legislation and the rollout of its regulations. Parliamentarians that supported the introduction of this measure need to recognize it will have a detrimental impact on Canada’s reputation, labour market, economy and severely hinder our ability to attract global talent. Our CEO Michael Bourque recently spoke at the Senate Committee on National Finance where he stated why CREA believes this piece of legislation does not address the core of Canada’s housing crisis. How can REALTORS® reduce risk?The regulations clarify that an order requiring the Residential Property be sold may be sought provided certain conditions are met, namely the Non-Canadian is the owner at the time the order is made and notice requirements have been met. The Act provides any person knowingly assisting or attempting to assist a Non-Canadian in the purchase of a prohibited property may be subject to a summary conviction offence under the Criminal Code and a fine of up to $10,000. CREA recognizes the regulatory analysis states “the regulations do not impose information collection, processing or reporting requirements on Canadian professionals, nor do they impose requirements with respect to the completion of forms or other types of documentation.” Despite record keeping not being a mandatory obligation, CREA recommends REALTORS® perform due diligence. To better assist REALTORS® with risk mitigation, CREA has developed a certificate entitled Certification and Consent of Purchaser. With limited information available on how this law and its regulations will be interpreted and enforced, please be aware the certificate is a risk mitigation tool to try and help REALTORS® comply with the law. The certificate should be completed before assisting or advising a potential purchaser, and it should be used in combination with other due diligence practices. Other due diligence practices may include reviewing and keeping a record of the purchaser’s valid and current identification (such as a passport) to determine the purchaser’s citizenship, residency, or exempt status. As you are aware, REALTORS® already have an obligation to Know Your Client pursuant to the FINTRAC Regime. This includes ID’ing clients and recording certain information. The key difference is that under the FINTRAC Regime you may ID your client at the time of the transaction, whereas pursuant to this law, REALTORS® should ID clients before assisting or advising them on the purchase of a property. As real estate is provincially regulated, REALTORS® should ensure they comply with any guidance provided by their provincial regulator, board, and association. What is the Prohibition on the Purchase of Residential Property by Non-Canadians Act?On June 23, 2022, Parliament passed the Prohibition on the Purchase of Residential Property by Non-Canadians Act. Coming into force Sunday, January 1, 2023, this Act:
What are some of the key elements covered in the regulations?Purchase The regulations broadly define the term purchase to include the direct or indirect acquisition of a right or interest in Residential Property. The regulations then specifically exclude, among other things, acquisitions of interests resulting from transitional or life events such as death, divorce, separation, or a gift. Application of Prohibition to Non-Canadian corporations and other entities The term Non-Canadian, as it relates to corporations and other entities, has been defined as:
Excluded residential properties Properties located outside of a Census Agglomeration (CA) or Census Metropolitan Area (CMA) are excluded from this prohibition. Exceptions Exceptions to the prohibition are permitted for international students, temporary residents, foreign nationals, and refugee claimants, subject to varying conditions, such as tax filing and residency obligations. For further details, please consult the regulations and/or ensure the buyer who may fall into one of these exception groups seeks legal advice on their eligibility. Additional guidance Further to the information that has been provided in the regulations, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) has released additional information and FAQs with respect to the interpretation of the Act and regulations. Metro Vancouver’s housing market sees fewer home buyers and sellers in August
Posted on
September 18, 2022
by
Marie Taverna
Metro Vancouver’s housing market sees fewer home buyers and sellers in August Metro Vancouver’s housing market is experiencing a quieter summer season marked by reduced sale and listing activity. The Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver (REBGV) reports that residential home sales in the region totalled 1,870 in August 2022, a 40.7 per cent decrease from the 3,152 sales recorded in August 2021, and a 0.9 per cent decrease from the 1,887 homes sold in July 2022. Last month’s sales were 29.2 per cent below the 10-year August sales average. “With inflationary pressure and interest rates on the rise, home buyer and seller activity shifted below our long-term seasonal averages this summer,” Andrew Lis, REBGV’s director, economics and data analytics said. “This shift in market conditions caused prices to edge down over the past four months.” There were 3,328 detached, attached and apartment properties newly listed for sale on the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in Metro Vancouver in August 2022. This represents a 17.5 per cent decrease compared to the 4,032 homes listed in August 2021 and a 16 per cent decrease compared to July 2022 when 3,960 homes were listed. The total number of homes currently listed for sale on the MLS® system in Metro Vancouver is 9,662, a 7.3 per cent increase compared to August 2021 (9,005) and a 6.1 per cent decrease compared to July 2022 (10,288). “Home buyers and sellers are taking more time to assess what this changing landscape means for their housing needs,” Lis said. “Preparation is critical in today’s market. Work with your Realtor to assess what today’s home prices, financing options, and other considerations mean for you.” For all property types, the sales-to-active listings ratio for August 2022 is 19.4 per cent. By property type, the ratio is 12.2 per cent for detached homes, 25.3 per cent for townhomes, and 24.8 per cent for apartments. Generally, analysts say 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. The MLS® Home Price Index composite benchmark price for all residential properties in Metro Vancouver is currently $1,180,500. This represents a 7.4 per cent increase over August 2021 and a 2.2 per cent decrease compared to July 2022. Sales of detached homes in August 2022 reached 517, a 45.3 per cent decrease from the 945 detached sales recorded in August 2021. The benchmark price for a detached home is $1,954,100. This represents a 7.9 per cent increase from August 2021 and a 2.3 per cent decrease compared to July 2022. Sales of apartment homes reached 998 in August 2022, a 38.8 per cent decrease compared to the 1,631 sales in August 2021. The benchmark price of an apartment home is $740,100. This represents an 8.7 per cent increase from August 2021 and a two per cent decrease compared to July 2022. Attached home sales in August 2022 totalled 355, a 38.4 per cent decrease compared to the 576 sales in August 2021. The benchmark price of an attached home is $1,069,100. This represents a 12.7 per cent increase from August 2021 and a 2.5 per cent decrease compared to July 2022. NEW LISTING 1-2381 Argue Street Port Coquitlam
Posted on
April 16, 2022
by
Marie Taverna
Welcome to “Boardwalk” This beautiful former Liberty Homes display home has a stunning view of the Fraser River from 3 angles. Imagine sitting on your decks & watching the boats go by. Main floor has 9ft ceilings & large windows. Elegant living room with gas fireplace & dining room has sliders leading to a large sundeck. The family room has a tv alcove & bonus shelves. Updated bright white kitchen with stone counters+gas range+SS appliances+breakfast bar+eating area. Easy care wood flooring + custom blinds. Sundeck off of family room is perfect for BBQing & people watching. You will spend hours here. Elegant primary bedroom with walk-in closet & soaker tub in ensuite. 2 other good size bedrooms, all with water view. Walkout daylight basement with rec room with custom cabinets for storage & 3-piece bath, perfect for the teen + patio. Great yard space. Air conditioning. Calmer than last spring’s record pace, Metro Vancouver home buyer demand remains elevated
Posted on
April 8, 2022
by
Marie Taverna
Calmer than last spring’s record pace, Metro Vancouver home buyer demand remains elevated While down from last year’s record numbers, home sale activity in Metro Vancouver’s housing market remained elevated in March.
20750 115th Ave Maple Ridge
Posted on
April 8, 2022
by
Marie Taverna
20750 115th Ave Maple Ridge FORE!! This fabulous home is a very short stroll away from the Maple Ridge Golf Course. Located in Golf Wynd Estates, this home is located on a quiet cul-de-sac and is ready to move in. Lovely living room and dining room with valued ceiling. Gas fireplace in living room to keep you warm at night. Cute kitchen with eating nook. Enjoy your private patio and covered deck for summer entertaining. Large primary bedroom upstairs with large 5-piece ensuite. Upstairs landing is a perfect spot for a comfy chair to curl up with a book. Main floor second bedroom is large and could also be a primary bedroom. Third bedroom would make a great home office space. Four-piece bath on main. Double car garage, flat driveway. Call your Realtor today… Listed for $1,260,000.00 12515 Colemore Place Maple Ridge
Posted on
April 8, 2022
by
Marie Taverna
12515 Colemore Place Maple Ridge Absolutely stunning 3 bedroom & 2 bath Rancher on a quiet cul-de-sac. From the moment you drive up you will be impressed. Beautiful living room with lovely gas fireplace & bayed windows. Dining room with cabinet alcove. Bright & white kitchen cabinets, corian countertops & S/S appliances. Skylights for extra light.Breakfast bar & eating area nook. Family room with 2 white glass cabinets. Sliders to covered patio for year-round enjoyment. Fenced cute yard for Fido & family. Lovely primary bedroom with updated 3-piece ensuite. Other 2 good size bedrooms. Updated main bath. Beautiful easy-care floors. Bonus flex room for a games room, media space, or a great home office business area. Lots of storage. Eco paving on driveway and patio for easy care. This home is beautifully decorated with all the extra touches. Truly a beauty. Call your Realtor today… Listed for $1,350,000.00 New Exclusive Listing at 6 Brackenridge Place in Heritage Mountain, Port Moody
Posted on
November 2, 2021
by
Marie Taverna
Welcome to 6 Brackenridge in Heritage Mountain. Listed for $2,100,000.00 This fabulous executive home is just what you have been waiting for. Located on a quiet street, this home has had many updates through the years. Elegant living room & dining area. The gourmet kitchen is the show piece of the main floor. Stunning wood cabinets, gleaming S/S appliances & shiny stone counters tops, large walk-in pantry would make a chef proud. Large eating area & family room also finish this area. Large sundeck for bbqing or relaxing & taking in the beautiful greenbelt. Upstairs boosts 3 bedrooms & 2 updated bathrooms. The lower floor would make a great teen area or perhaps an in-law suite, with an updated bathroom. Sliders leads to an extra-large patio. Beautifully landscaped backyard has easy care green turf, perfect for the kids or Fido. Truly a pleasure to show… REALTORS Care® Blanket Drive
Posted on
November 2, 2021
by
Marie Taverna
REALTORS Care® Blanket Drivewww.facebook.com/blanketdrive #RealtorsCare
This year we're back to collecting donations!After a year hiatus, the REALTORS Care® Blanket Drive is back! The less fortunate in our communities have been hit hard by COVID-19, and even with the light at the end of the tunnel, they need our help more than ever. With vaccination rates rising, and new safety guidelines, we’re able to collect blankets, warm clothing, and new socks and undergarments starting November 15. These are the items we're looking for:
Donations will be delivered to these charities. And more fundraising!Last year REALTORS raised $50,000 for our partner charities. The donations helped when they were at their lowest. Funds are still tight, so we're doing this again. All proceeds will go directly to local charities that help keep those in need safe and warm. How to get the most out of your garage
Posted on
November 2, 2021
by
Marie Taverna
If you’re fortunate enough to own a home with a covered garage, you know how handy it can be to store things like sporting equipment, tools, off-season tires and boxes of holiday decorations. But if your vehicle is permanently parked outdoors because your garage has become a disorganized catch-all for countless boxes of unused items, it may be time for an intervention. Heading into the fall, this is the perfect time to clean and organize your garage. Ideally, your garage can be a place where only necessary items live and everything has a home. Most importantly, it’s where your vehicle can be parked, away from extreme cold (and extreme heat), inches of heavy snow and thick layers of ice, which is an inevitability during Canadian winters. Follow these helpful tips to get your garage in order before the cold weather hits!
Stay in the habit of parking inside the garage. If you know the space in the centre is always occupied by a car, you will not be tempted to fill it up with miscellaneous items. Plus, parking inside can actually extend the life of your vehicle by protecting it from the elements. The homeowner’s checklist for fall Is your property ready for the cold weather ahead?
Posted on
November 2, 2021
by
Marie Taverna
Before the cold weather sets in, make sure your home is winter-ready. Be sure to check these important tasks off your list.
Prices in Canada’s secondary cities continue to rise as buyers prioritize space and affordability in age of remote work
Posted on
November 2, 2021
by
Marie Taverna
Since the late spring of 2020, Canadian home prices have been rising at historic rates, following the onset of the global pandemic. Widespread lockdowns suddenly forced millions of workers and students to conduct their daily business from home. While the trend of working remotely was gaining in popularity in the years prior, the seemingly unending health crisis accelerated the movement, driving many Canadians living in major urban centres to trade in their cramped quarters for more space in smaller cities and rural communities. The latest Royal LePage House Price Survey and Market Forecast shows price growth in Kingston’s single-family detached segment was the highest in the country, posting an increase of 46.5% year-over-year in the third quarter. Following Kingston, Ajax had the next highest year-over-year home price appreciation for the detached properties, rising 36.2% year-over-year; then, Langley (34.5%) and Greater Victoria (34.0%). Kingston also had one of the highest aggregate price increases nationwide (36%), second only to Saint John, New Brunswick (36.4%). “Competition in Kingston’s housing market is incredibly high. Inventory has reached an all-time low, while demand gets stronger everyday,” said Bob Armer, area manager, Royal LePage ProAlliance Realty. “Today, there are even more buyers from out of town – namely from Toronto and the GTA – than there were a year ago. This migration continues to put a lot of upward pressure on prices, which is especially challenging for local buyers.” Armer noted that Kingston’s proximity to Toronto has made it very popular among young people who can work remotely but may need to be in the office once or twice per week. This is just one example of secondary cities that have grown in popularity and population over the last 15 months. Nationally, home price appreciation is being driven by the detached segment in secondary cities, like Kingston. Royal LePage is forecasting that the aggregate price of a home in Canada will increase 16% per cent to $771,500 in the fourth quarter of 2021, compared to the same quarter last year, putting real estate values on track to grow 33% by the end of the year from June, 2020. Read Royal LePage’s third quarter release for more regional and national insights. Just Sold 303-2368 Marpole Avenue Port Coquitlam
Posted on
November 2, 2021
by
Marie Taverna
Just Sold 303-2368 Marpole Avenue in Port Coquitlam for a record sale price for the building Welcome to River Rock Landing. Fabulous 2 bdrm & den condo is move in ready. The living room has a gas fireplace & sliders that lead to the a private deck. Dining room for entertaining. The kitchen cabinets have been freshly painted white & bright. New stainless-steel appliances. Stone counter tops & tiled back splash. New laminate flooring in most areas & new carpet in bedrooms. The 2 bathrooms have been updated in recent years as well as the washer & dryer. Principal bedroom has a large walk-in closet plus sliders that also lead to the private deck. The second bedroom would make a great home office. Great prime location with parks, shopping, transit, new Poco Rec Centre & a wide array of restaurants & pubs. Buy or rent a home: Which is better financially?
Posted on
November 2, 2021
by
Marie Taverna
For generations, Canadians have been asking themselves this important question: ‘Is it better to buy a home or rent?’ On the one hand, owning comes with more responsibility and higher monthly expenses, but offers more stability and a long-term investment. On the other hand, the money spent on renting will never be recuperated, however, it can offer some flexibility if you’re not sure how long you will live in one place. According to a recent Royal LePage-sponsored study by economist Will Dunning, it is more financially beneficial to purchase a home than to rent in Canada, more than nine times out of ten. The study uses price data for 278 scenarios (broken out by city and housing type) across the country and assumes the owner is able to provide a 20% down payment. In 91% of scenarios, the monthly cost of owning a home is less than renting an equivalent dwelling, when considering the net ownership costs (total cost of ownership minus the portion of mortgage payment that goes toward principal). This is called the ‘ownership advantage’. “While Canadians do want their homes to appreciate, potential homebuyers will find it reassuring that significant price appreciation is not necessary for ownership to be financially worthwhile,” said Karen Yolevski, chief operating officer, Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd. “Historically, home ownership has been very profitable for Canadians, many of whom have factored their real estate investments into their retirement planning. Owning a home is widely viewed as a means to save money and build equity.” While home prices are expected to continue rising, the study found that even with a 10% decline in home prices, approximately half of the homeowners studied would still see a positive rate of return on investment, while the other half would break even or see a modest loss as an investment. “For many people, buying a home – especially the first – is a landmark event and one of the most challenging decisions we’ll make in our lives,” said Will Dunning, president, Will Dunning Inc. “It is a decision that is usually based on a lot of hard work. This research tests a belief that is held by a lot of Canadians, that owning is better financially than renting. And, it finds that this belief is very often correct.” Tor more insights, read the full release and report summary linked below: New Listing 303-2368 Marpole Avenue Port Coquitlam $699,900
Posted on
September 24, 2021
by
Marie Taverna
Welcome to River Rock Landing. Fabulous 2 bdrm & den condo is move in ready. The living room has a gas fireplace & sliders that lead to the a private deck. Dining room for entertaining. The kitchen cabinets have been freshly painted white & bright. New stainless-steel appliances. Stone counter tops & tiled back splash. New laminate flooring in most areas & new carpet in bedrooms. The 2 bathrooms have been updated in recent years as well as the washer & dryer. Principal bedroom has a large walk-in closet plus sliders that also lead to the private deck. The second bedroom would make a great home office. Great prime location with parks, shopping, transit, the new Poco Rec Centre & a wide array of restaurants & pubs, minutes away by foot, bike or car. http://www.listings.360hometours.ca/15765 Downtown Vancouver for Fleurs de Villes ROSÉ
Posted on
June 14, 2021
by
Marie Taverna
Downtown Vancouver for Fleurs de Villes ROSÉ – a fresh floral trail supporting breast cancer research. From June 11-20, this stunning showcase of floral talent will be freely open to the public and will feature over 50 stunning floral installations, created by some of Vancouver’s favourite florists. Supported by the Downtown Vancouver and Robson Street business associations, Fleurs de Villes ROSÉ will be freely open to the public, and visitors will be able to safely walk through this self-guided trail through the downtown core while adhering to social distancing Cozying up to Hygge
Posted on
February 2, 2021
by
Marie Taverna
Your Guide to Outdoor Fireplaces
Posted on
July 25, 2020
by
Marie Taverna
Your Guide to Outdoor FireplacesOutdoor fireplaces are a backyard staple for many homeowners. Not only are they functional, providing a source of heat and light while allowing you to make the most out of your outdoor living space, but they can also increase the appeal of your home while creating an atmosphere that reflects your individuality. Plus, who doesn’t want a spot in their own backyard to make s’mores whenever you want? ![]() That said, installing an outdoor fireplace isn’t as straightforward as lighting a match. What type to choose, what fuel source to use, and where you place it are all questions requiring careful consideration. Not to mention, local bylaws and codes must be strictly adhered to, which present challenges of their own. But a quick Google search of your area or even provincial regulations will let you know if there’s a burn ban in place or structural requirement you’ll need to meet before breaking out the kindling. When it comes to lighting a fire, some municipalities require a simple burn permit which can be registered with a phone call. ![]() If everything’s a go, there’s no better time than now to ignite the outdoor space of your dreams. Read on to find which solution works best for you. The four types of outdoor fireplaces![]() All fireplaces fall into three categories: wood-burning, gas-burning (natural gas, propane, or kerosene), or electric—and within those categories are four main types:
Just like selecting an indoor fireplace, it all comes down to function, features, and performance—each with its own application, advantages, and disadvantages. To choose the right type for your space, ask yourself what’s most important to you and the space you’re working with? Do you value fashion over function? Do you want a fireplace that will give off plenty of heat, or will serve as the multi-purpose lawn decoration? Is finding an environmentally responsible alternative more important than the general ambiance? Maybe you want the best of both worlds! Explore the pros and cons of each type below: Fire pits: rings, bowls, and patio pitsIf you close your eyes and picture a fire pit, what pops into your head? It’s likely a traditional fire ring of rocks circling a shallow pit. Some modern pits can be quite lavish with mortared limestone surrounds, proper drainage systems, and even include fire glass. Fire rings and their pits are quite permanent and would require some landscaping to relocate. Bowls, on the other hand, come in different shapes, sizes, and materials and are placed on the ground or a stand for easy transportation. Patio fire pits can be integrated into your patio, such as fire tables that give the outdoor dining experience a bit of ambiance, with the fire pit as the table’s centrepiece. Pros
Cons
FireplacesOutdoor fireplaces can include various designs and features such as cottage-style chimneys, bronze inlaying, and detailed stonework. If you want to give wood-burning a rest, gas-burning and electric-powered models are also available. Pros
Cons
Patio heatersPatio heaters are traditionally fueled by gas or electricity, and their lightweight construction offers more portability than a classic outdoor fireplace. Propane standing floor lamps are common styles, and patio heaters come in a variety of sizes to suit your desired space.. Pros
Cons
ChimineasChimeneas are centuries old and combine function with fashion. Decorative wood-burning chimineas are shaped like a wide-bottom vase with integrated chimneys, and they’re historically made from fired clay. Pros
Cons
Patio torchesPatio torches, aka Tiki torches, are an economical way to light up your outdoor space while creating an inviting, tropical atmosphere. Originating from ancient Polynesia, torches are popular with homeowners wanting a relaxed island vibe in their own backyard. Pros
Cons
When to dig a pit and where to place a heaterThe outdoor space you’re working with will help you decide which fireplace you can install. If you want to bring the heat to your deck or porch, a patio heater or gas-burning fireplace is a great go-to option. If it’s a semi-enclosed space, the limited heat-radius won’t be as noticeable. ![]() If you want to crank up the heat in wide, open spaces, look to wood-burning fireplaces, pits, and chimeneas. Give them plenty of room to breathe, however. These options should be kept 10 to 20-feet away from walls and combustibles, plants and trees. They’re not recommended for enclosed decks or gazebos. ![]() To play up the ambiance of your space or to decorate for special occasions patio torches are a great option, weather permitting. They’re perfect for lining walkways or outlining the perimeter of your deck, but they can also be used beneath an awning or slatted patio roof. For safety, be aware of the flame and make sure there’s plenty of airflow. ![]() How you fuel your outdoor fireplace also determines which type you choose. Those that need an electrical outlet or natural gas line are not easily moved, while propane-fueled and wood-burning options provide more flexibility. Now that you’ve narrowed done your fireplace, why not add a little flavour to your outdoor space? Here’s what you need to know about choosing the perfect grill! Fireplace safety, bylaws, and codesSmokey Bear charged us with the responsibility of preventing forest fires and holds true for your outdoor fireplace, too. Here are a few safety considerations to bear in mind:
![]() Ultimately, your local bylaws and zoning codes have the final say in what type of outdoor fireplace you choose. Each province or territory has a different process, so be sure to check your local government’s website or your local fire department for regulations and recommendations. For instance, firepits and wood-burning fireplaces are more acceptable in rural neighbourhoods, but if you live in the city, you’re likely limited to gas-burning models in covered bowls. If you live in a condo or townhouse, there’s a good chance outdoor fireplaces are prohibited altogether—check with your building management. If the warm smell of wood smoke is something you crave or an elegant patio with a built-in fireplace is what you’re looking for in a new home, make sure you talk with your REALTOR® about the dos and don’ts in your new neighbourhood. How to Make Happy Hour Even Happier This Summer
Posted on
July 25, 2020
by
Marie Taverna
How to Make Happy Hour Even Happier This SummerNow that summer has arrived, it’s time to get serious about happy hour. Cocktails are synonymous with freedom, holidays, love and celebration (and sometimes headaches). Introduce your bubble to a few sophisticated upgrades and elevate your patio status from Jell-o shooters! It takes little investment beyond a few choice bottles, reusable straws, a shaker and blender. Premium snacks and a solid playlist help too! There will always be cocktail classics to lean on, but why not expand your in-house drinks list? Here’s your happy hour homework assignment for the summer: ![]() The Basil Bee StingThere’s a buzz around this drink for good reason! It’s like drinking a glass of air conditioning! You can also pat yourself on the back for supporting the local bee population. Casablanca basil seed drinks are a fun juice alternative and come in the following flavours: lychee, mango, pineapple, pomegranate and rose. Try them all! (*But maybe not all at once.)
Add basil seed drink, tequila, lemon juice and honey to a shaker. Add ice and shake for 15 seconds. Strain. Recline. As we continue to navigate the different phases of the pandemic and shifting social and business restrictions, why not set up a home bar? For makeshift cocktail stations and permanent closed-concept solutions, begin your bar blueprint research here. ![]() Love at First SightWhether you are shaken or stirred, this is one drink you won’t soon forget. Created by cookbook author and Harrowsmith food editor, Signe Langford, Love at First Sight is a sweet treat and likely, the start of a long love affair!
Blend both rums, milk, ice and whiz until smooth and frothy. Pour into two tall glasses and add a tiny pinch of sea salt to the top, if desired. ![]() Suit & TieSummer does have a few rules that should be obeyed. No shirt, no shoes, no service doesn’t apply here though–a Suit & Tie is required! Spiced rum is a versatile mix often ignored until the winter season. However, it can kick up blender drinks and legends like the Dark and Stormy (spiced rum and ginger beer) and Cuba Libre (rum and cola). But, let’s dress things up a little with this riff from Corby Spirit and Wine.
Add a few ice cubes to an old-fashioned glass. Combine spiced rum with vermouth and Italian bitter liqueur. Stir and garnish with orange zest or blood orange slice and a sour cherry. ![]() Grapefruit MargaritaSarah DeRuiter and Neil Haapamaki, owners and founders of The Diplomat Boutique Hotel in Mérida, Mexico, know how to blend a dose of OMG and SPF without blinking. The Toronto ex-pats are well-versed in all things tequila and have curated a slick custom cocktail list infused with local fruits, spices and herbs from their garden. Take an instant DIY vacation to Mexico and ease into the tropical chill of The Diplomat’s signature Grapefruit Margarita.
Rim a highball glass with a blend of chili, salt, and lime (or Tajin). Shake all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Garnish glass with a grapefruit and lime slice, add ice to the glass, pour and serve. Salud! ![]() Grown-up milkshakeTake to the shade with a book, bamboo straw and a frosty shake! Spike your milkshake with your favourite spirit by following this simple (but not strict) base recipe that serves two.
Blend ingredients on high for a couple of minutes. Add more ice cream for a thicker shake or thin with milk (or booze). Here are a few tried and true combinations to experiment with: The James Joyce: Replace milk in this recipe with Guinness and blend vanilla ice cream with Baileys Salted Caramel. Any coffee-flavoured ice cream will marry well. Drizzle with chocolate syrup or garnish with crushed chocolate-covered espresso beans for a chocolate lover’s total meltdown. Summer Crush: Replace milk with Orange Crush soda and add vodka. Try Chapman’s Orange Pineapple or Tiger Tail ice cream for an all-Canadian flavour twist. Back to Your Roots: Replace milk with root beer and add vodka for a root beer float with personality! Key Lime Pie in a Glass: Add lime vodka and rim glass with crushed graham crackers. What’s better than a pie that you can drink? For an online cocktail “class” that you won’t want to skip, check out the pandemic-inspired series Amy Schumer Learns to Cook on the Food Network. Summer school has never been so fun! Best of luck to all of you on your bar exam! New Listing 307-285 Newport Drive Port Moody BC
Posted on
June 3, 2020
by
Marie Taverna
Welcome to the Belcarra, the premier low-rise building @Newport Village.This rare style condo unit with 2 bedrooms/2 bath+den, is move in ready.This home seems larger with it’s open floor plan & windows.Kitchen has light wood grain cabinets/stone counters & S/S appliances.Gas fireplace in living room.Recent updates such as designer paint colours, flooring & much more.Principal bedroom with walk-in closet.Large 2nd bedroom & the den makes a great home office.Laundry closet with high efficiency W/D.BONUS 2 separate covered decks,2 side by side parking & 1 storage locker.The building includes an exercise room, amenity room, & bike storage.Set in beautiful Newport Village with everything a short stroll away, Evergreen Skytrain/WestcoastExpress/shopping/Brewery Row/Rocky Point Park & much more.http://www.listings.360hometours.ca/15084 |
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