Canadian employment rose by 0.1 percent from the previous month, growing by 15,000 jobs to 20.597 million in October. The employment rate fell by 0.1 points to 60.6 per cent, while the unemployment rate remained unchanged at 6.5 per cent. Average hourly wages increased by 4.9 per cent year-over-year, reaching $35.76 last month. Total hours worked rose 1.6 per cent from October of the previous year.

Employment in British Columbia (B.C.)

Employment in B.C. declined by 0.3 per cent to 2.829 million, despite a gain of 8,000 jobs in October. This marks the first month of provincial job growth since April 2024. Employment in Metro Vancouver saw a 1.2 per cent increase, reaching 1.606 million in October. The unemployment rate in B.C. dropped by 0.2…

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Weaker-Than-Expected October Jobs Report Keeps Jumbo Rate Cut In-Play in December

Statistics Canada released October employment data today. The data showed a marked slowdown in job growth, underscoring ongoing labour-market softness that triggered a jumbo rate cut last month. Statistics Canada reported that the country added 14,500 positions in October, missing the median expectation of a 27,200 rise in a Bloomberg survey of economists. This is the smallest employment gain this year and far below the average monthly pace of about 40,000 positions. The jobless rate held steady at 6.5%, beating forecasts of 6.6%.

Friday’s report indicates an economy still creating jobs but with room for more growth. Bank of Canada policymakers cited the weakening in…

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West Vancouver has earned its reputation as one of British Columbia's premier real estate markets, attracting investors, families, and international buyers alike. Known for its stunning waterfront views, luxury homes, excellent schools, and unparalleled quality of life, West Vancouver offers a blend of attributes that make it highly desirable. As the market continues to thrive, it’s worth exploring the specific qualities that make West Vancouver a top choice for real estate investment in British Columbia.

1. Unmatched Luxury and Scenic Beauty

West Vancouver is synonymous with luxury, and its breathtaking scenic beauty only enhances its appeal. The area is home to some of BC’s most exclusive neighborhoods, featuring properties with views of the…

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Are you ready for a weekend filled with festive lights, unique shopping experiences, and a taste of local culture? Vancouver has something exciting to offer this November 9-10, from magical light festivals to handcrafted treasures at one of the city's best-known holiday markets. Whether you're planning to explore Surrey's Bear Creek Park Light Festival, pick out a unique gift at the Circle Craft Holiday Market, or simply soak in the holiday spirit, this guide has you covered!

Surrey’s Bear Creek Park Light Festival

Overview of Surrey’s Light Festival

The Surrey Light Festival at Bear Creek Park is a must-see winter attraction for those looking to kickstart their holiday season. This enchanting light display is set in one of the most iconic…

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Investing in real estate is a time-tested way to build wealth, and in Canada, North Vancouver has emerged as a hot spot for both local and international investors. Known for its scenic beauty, vibrant community, and solid property values, North Vancouver has become a preferred destination for those looking to secure valuable property in an appealing locale. In 2024, this area offers unique opportunities and compelling reasons to invest, thanks to its growth potential, diverse housing options, and strong rental market. Let’s explore why North Vancouver real estate is a smart investment this year.

1. Robust Market Growth and Stability

One of the most compelling reasons to consider investing in North Vancouver real estate is the area's strong,…

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Rising Home Sales: A Sign of Market Shift in the Fraser Valley?

SURREY, BC – Home sales in the Fraser Valley increased for the first time in five months following a sizable interest rate cut by the Bank of Canada in October.

The Fraser Valley Real Estate Board recorded 1,330 sales in October, up 35 per cent from September, and 37 per cent year-over-year.

“After waiting it out on the sidelines for a number of months, buyers seem to be finally responding to the series of successive rate cuts by the Bank of Canada,” said Jeff Chadha, Chair of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board. “Whether this is an indication of further sales trends, remains to be seen, especially as the feds eye a possible additional cut before year-end.”

New listings…

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Buyer Demand Surges in October

VANCOUVER, BC – November 4, 2024 – After months of tracking approximately twenty percent below the ten-year seasonal average, Metro Vancouver home sales surged more than 30 percent year-over-year in October.

The Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR) reports that residential sales registered on the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in the region totaled 2,632 in October 2024, a 31.9 percent increase from the 1,996 sales recorded in October 2023. This was 5.5 percent below the 10-year seasonal average (2,784).

“Typically, reductions to mortgage rates boost demand, and the strong October sales numbers suggest buyers may finally be responding to lower borrowing costs after waiting on the sidelines for months,” said Andrew…

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Vancouver, known for its vibrant culture, beautiful landscapes, and  evolving real estate market, continues to attract investors from all corners of the globe. With its diverse range of neighborhoods and a strong historical appreciation in property values, investing in apartments in Vancouver presents a compelling case. However, like any investment, it comes with its own set of risks and rewards. This blog post explores whether investing in Vancouver's apartment market is worth your hard-earned money.

Understanding the Vancouver Apartment Market

Market Trends

The real estate market in Vancouver has experienced significant fluctuations over the past decade. Prices have seen a steep upward trajectory due to limited supply and increasing demand,…

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Vancouver recently took a landmark step in re-envisioning how the city's rich and varied heritage is recognized and preserved. The Vancouver Heritage Register (VHR), a vital record of the city's cultural and historical assets, has been upgraded to better reflect the depth and diversity of Vancouver's cultural landscape. This modernization aims to honor Indigenous histories, recognize intangible cultural elements, and provide clearer guidance for property owners, developers, and the public. The upgrade is part of a broader vision of reconciliation and inclusivity, essential for a city as multicultural as Vancouver.

Why Update the Vancouver Heritage Register?

The VHR has traditionally focused on physical, often Eurocentric, elements of Vancouver’s…

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When searching for apartments for sale in North Vancouver, it's crucial to approach each viewing with a strategic mindset. Knowing what to look for, what questions to ask, and how to assess each property effectively can make a significant difference in your decision-making process. This checklist will guide you through the essential steps to take when viewing apartments in this vibrant area.

1. Understand Your Must-Haves and Deal Breakers

 


Essential Features and Amenities

It's important to clearly define what features and amenities you cannot compromise on. This list can include the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, the necessity of public transit access, specific pet policies, and desired amenities such as in-suite laundry or a dishwasher.…

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