March 12, 2025

The Bank of Canada lowered its overnight policy rate by 25 basis points this morning from 3 per cent to 2.75 per cent. In the statement accompanying the decision, the Bank noted that trade tensions will slow momentum from robust GDP growth observed in the second half of 2024, though how much the economy might slow is complicated by the uncertainty from a rapidly evolving policy landscape. On inflation, the Bank expects prices to rise slightly above their 2 per cent target as the GST tax break ends and forecasts that core inflation will remain above 2 per cent due to persistently elevated shelter costs.

Thanks to tariffs, the Bank of Canada is faced with heightened uncertainty and an economy that may be set to slow down rather than…

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A mortgage pre-approval is when a lender evaluates your financial obligation, credit rating, income, and assets to determine how much they can lend you. The lender will examine various factors, including your income stability, employment history, and existing debt, to assess your ability to repay the loan. It also provides an estimate of your interest rate and loan terms, helping you plan for your future mortgage payments. While pre-approval does not guarantee final loan approval, it is a crucial step in the real estate buying process. A pre-approval letter signals to sellers that you are a serious buyer and increases your negotiating power, especially in a hot market like West Vancouver.

Why You Need a Mortgage Pre-Approval in West Vancouver

With …

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Building wealth through investing is a solid financial move, but the big question is: should you go for real estate or stocks? Both options come with their own perks and downsides, so understanding them is key before making a decision. Real estate gives you a tangible asset and rental income, while stocks offer easy liquidity and high potential growth. Your choice depends on your financial goals, risk tolerance, and how much involvement you want in your investment. In this article, we’ll break down the differences, risks, rewards, tax advantages, and management involved in both investment strategies.

Understanding the Basics

What is Real Estate Investing?

Real estate investing involves buying and managing physical properties—whether houses,…

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Selling a home in Vancouver can be a competitive and rewarding experience. With the city's booming real estate market, homeowners must take strategic steps to ensure their properties attract buyers and sell at a desirable price. Whether you’re relocating for work, upgrading to a larger home, or cashing in on your investment, selling quickly and efficiently is always the goal. However, with so many properties on the market, how do you make your home stand out? The key lies in a well-planned approach that includes boosting curb appeal, setting the right price, working with an experienced real estate agent, and staging your home to perfection. Each of these factors plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth and profitable home sale.

Enhancing Your Home’s…

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The outlook for the Canadian economy in the coming months presents a picture of cautious optimism with high uncertainty. Economic indicators were expected to strengthen this year, driven by resilient consumer spending and a robust export sector. Housing activity was poised to accelerate this year as well.

However, when the newly inaugurated US president began to threaten Canada with 25% tariffs at the end of January, home sales slowed markedly. However, challenges such as global market volatility and inflationary pressures could temper this growth.

The Bank of Canada will maintain its current monetary policy stance, carefully balancing interest rates to manage inflation while supporting economic activity. The housing market remains a key area of…

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Buyers Gaining Upper Hand in Fraser Valley Real Estate Market

SURREY, BC - For the first time in four months, home sales in the Fraser Valley have increased as buyers capitalize on more selection and weakening prices.

The Fraser Valley Real Estate Board recorded 920 sales in February, up 13% from January, but 26% below sales recorded in February 2024.

Despite a 9% drop in newly listed homes on the Board’s Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®), new listings remained 14% above the 10-year seasonal average, at 3,121. Overall inventory remains high, at 8,070 active listings, 45% above February 2024 and 55% above the 10-year seasonal average.

Market Conditions

The overall sales-to-active listings ratio continues to signal a buyer’s market in the…

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February Brings Balance to Metro Vancouver’s Housing Market

VANCOUVER, BC – March 4, 2025 – After a 46 per cent year-over-year increase of new listings in January, the number of newly listed properties on the MLS® in Metro Vancouver rose more moderately in February, helping keep market conditions in balanced territory.

The Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR) reports that residential sales in the region totalled 1,827 on Metro Vancouver’s Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in February 2025, an 11.7 per cent decrease from the 2,070 sales recorded in February 2024. This total was 28.9 per cent below the 10-year seasonal average (2,571).

“After the rush of new listings in January, home sales and new listings in February were closer to historical…

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Buying or selling a home in British Columbia is a big decision. Whether you’re purchasing your first home, moving to a new place, or selling to invest elsewhere, the process can feel overwhelming. There are many things to think about, from home prices and taxes to legal rules and financial programs that might help.

This guide breaks it all down in simple terms. You’ll find useful information on taxes, financing, market trends, and tips for getting the best deal. By the end, you’ll have a clear idea of how to move forward with confidence.

Understanding the B.C. Real Estate Market

Market Trends and Pricing

Home prices in B.C. go up and down based on location, demand, and the economy. Vancouver is one of Canada’s most expensive markets, while…

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Canada Finished 2024 on a Stronger Note, But Tariffs Remain a Concern

This morning, Statistics Canada released the GDP data for the final quarter of last year, showing a stronger-than-expected increase in household final consumption spending, exports, and business investment. However, drawdowns of business inventories and higher imports tempered the overall growth.

Economic Growth in Q4

In Q4, the Canadian economy accelerated, with real GDP growth reaching a solid 2.6% annualized, which was well above consensus and the Bank of Canada's latest forecast. The growth was broad-based, led by a 5.6% increase in consumer spending. Consumer spending climbed 3.6% annually for three of the four quarters in 2024, supported by rate cuts in the second half of…

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Vancouver is one of the most desirable cities in the world, known for its stunning natural beauty, high quality of life, and strong economy. Every year, thousands of people dream of owning property in this vibrant city. However, if you are a foreign national, you may be wondering whether it is possible to buy real estate in Vancouver. The short answer is yes, but the process comes with several key requirements, additional taxes, and legal considerations that you must be aware of before making your investment. In this guide, we will explore all aspects of foreign real estate ownership in Vancouver, including eligibility, taxation, financing options, and other essential factors to ensure a smooth purchasing experience.

Eligibility for Foreign Buyers

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