Home Sellers Off to an Active Start in 2025

VANCOUVER, BC – February 4, 2025 – Homes newly listed on the MLS® in Metro Vancouver rose 46 per cent year-over-year in January, as sellers appear eager to enter the market to start the year.

The Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR) reports that residential sales in the region totalled 1,552 in January 2025, an 8.8 per cent increase from the 1,427 sales recorded in January 2024. This was 11.3 per cent below the 10-year seasonal average (1,749).

“In the three months preceding January, we’ve watched buyer demand gain momentum, but it appears that momentum is now shifting toward sellers to start the new year,” Andrew Lis, GVR’s director of economics and data analytics said. “Even with this increase in new…

186 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

Buying a home is a huge financial step, and the price tag on a listing doesn’t tell the whole story. There are many extra costs that come with homeownership that can add up fast. If you don’t plan for them, you might find yourself stretched thin. Have you thought about closing costs, property taxes, or homeowners association (HOA) fees? These are just a few expenses that many buyers don't consider. Knowing about these costs in advance will help you avoid surprises and keep your finances in check. Let's break it all down.

Main Expenses to Expect

1. Down Payment

The down payment is the biggest upfront cost when buying a home. The amount you need depends on your mortgage type, but it’s usually between 3% and 20% of the home’s price. A higher down…

72 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

Property maintenance can be a money pit if not handled strategically. From unexpected repairs to rising utility bills, costs can add up quickly. But what if you could cut down your expenses without compromising the quality of your property? Proper maintenance not only helps retain the value of your property but also ensures a comfortable and safe living environment. Whether you're a homeowner, landlord, or real estate investor, keeping your maintenance costs under control can significantly impact your bottom line. In this guide, we’ll share expert strategies to help you reduce your property maintenance costs while keeping everything in top shape.

1. Regular Inspections and Preventive Maintenance

Think of your property like a car—regular tune-ups…

94 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

Picking an accessible home isn’t just about making life easier—it’s about creating a space that promotes safety, independence, and peace of mind. Whether you're looking for yourself or a family member, certain features are essential to ensure the home fits specific needs. From smart layouts to modern technology, an accessible home should support mobility, daily tasks, and overall comfort.

Understanding Your Accessibility Needs

Evaluating Mobility Requirements

Before looking at properties, take time to assess what’s needed for easy movement. Do you use a wheelchair, walker, or other mobility aids? Will you need extra-wide doors or ramps? Not all accessibility features fit every individual, so it's important to focus on what works best for you now…

68 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

The Bank of Canada (BoC) reduced the overnight rate by 25 basis points this morning, bringing the policy rate down to 3.0%. The market had anticipated a nearly 98% chance of this 25 basis point reduction, and consensus aligned with this expectation.

The Federal Reserve is also set to announce its rate decision this afternoon, where it is widely expected to maintain the current policy rate. As a result, the gap between the US Federal Funds rate and the BoC’s overnight rate has widened to 150 basis points. This discrepancy is largely attributed to stronger growth and inflation in the US compared to Canada.

Consequently, Canada’s relatively low interest rates have negatively impacted the Canadian dollar, which has fallen to 69.2 cents against the US…

76 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

Want to keep your home’s plumbing in top shape for years to come? Proper maintenance is the key. Your plumbing system is one of the most essential parts of your home, supplying clean water and removing waste efficiently. A well-maintained system ensures comfort, prevents major disasters, and saves you from unexpected expenses. A little care and attention can prevent costly repairs and unexpected disasters. Let’s dive into five expert tips to ensure your plumbing system stays in prime condition.

Tip 1: Regularly Inspect for Leaks

Leaks are silent culprits that can wreak havoc on your home. Even small drips can waste hundreds of gallons of water each year, leading to higher water bills and potential structural damage. Regular inspections can help…

63 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

A pool is a great addition to any backyard, offering fun, relaxation, and a way to cool down. But it’s important to keep it clean and safe. Without regular upkeep, a pool can become dirty, unsafe, and costly to fix. Spending a little time each week can go a long way toward keeping it in great condition for everyone to enjoy.

What Makes Pool Care Worth the Effort

No one wants to swim in water that looks cloudy or smells bad. Taking care of your pool helps you avoid these issues. Regular maintenance keeps the water clear and safe and prevents small problems from turning into big ones. It also helps your pool last longer and look better, which adds to the value of your home.

Keeping Water Chemistry Balanced

The Basics of pH, Alkalinity, and…

53 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

Property management often feels like balancing multiple spinning plates. Between managing tenants, keeping up with maintenance, and following legal requirements, it’s easy for managers to feel stretched thin. Addressing common challenges directly can make a big difference in how smoothly things run.

Why It’s Important to Solve Recurring Issues

Recurring issues in property management can lead to larger problems if left unaddressed. For example, a small maintenance issue ignored today could turn into an expensive repair tomorrow. When tenants feel unheard or dissatisfied, they may choose not to renew their lease, leading to higher turnover rates and additional costs for finding new renters. Tackling these problems head-on helps streamline operations,…

62 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

Finding a home to rent isn’t just about picking a place that looks nice. It’s about ensuring the property matches your lifestyle, budget, and future plans. Imagine moving into a place only to realize you’re dealing with hidden fees, rigid rules, or a loud neighborhood. Asking the right questions beforehand helps you avoid these headaches. Think of it as laying a strong foundation for your decision-making. It saves you time, stress, and money in the long run.

Question 1: What Is the Full Monthly Cost?

Understanding the Rent Breakdown

The rent advertised might seem affordable, but it’s critical to ask about extra charges that could raise your monthly costs. For example, some rentals require separate fees for parking spots, access to a gym, or a…

66 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

Starting the process of building your own home is exciting and full of possibilities. It’s your chance to create a living space that perfectly matches your needs, personality, and dreams for the future. But let’s be honest, it’s not a simple task. From finding the right spot to choosing every little detail, it can quickly feel overwhelming. Thankfully, this guide is here to help you simplify the process. By following these steps, you’ll have a clear and straightforward plan to turn your dream home into a reality, avoiding common challenges along the way.

Starting Off Right: Preparing for Your Dream Home

Thinking About Your Needs and Lifestyle

Before you start looking at floor plans or scrolling through design ideas, take a step back and think…

61 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post