As the new year approaches, it's a natural time to reflect on our personal goals and set resolutions for the months ahead. Your home and finances are key areas where small, intentional changes can lead to big improvements in security, stability, and quality of life.

Create a Realistic Home Budget

A well-planned budget is essential for financial peace of mind. Whether you're new to budgeting or want to refine your approach, creating a realistic budget helps prioritize spending, track bills, and put money toward meaningful goals.

  • Identify Fixed and Variable Expenses: List out fixed costs, like mortgage payments, utilities, and insurance, as well as variable ones, such as groceries and entertainment.
  • Set Savings Goals: Include savings as a…

179 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

Fraser Valley Home Sales Returning to Seasonal Norms in November After October Surge

SURREY, BC – Following a healthy boost in sales in October, Fraser Valley home sales dropped in November as slower seasonal buying trends set in amid balanced market conditions.

The Fraser Valley Real Estate Board recorded 1,136 sales in November, down 15 per cent from October, but 28 per cent above November 2023 sales.

“Buying and selling activity is typically quiet at this time of year,” said Jeff Chadha, Chair of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board. “But it’s worth noting that November 2024 sales are higher than they’ve been compared to the past two November — a sign that overall activity is picking up in the Fraser Valley and with it, growing buyer…

516 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

Home Buyer Demand Continues to Strengthen in November

VANCOUVER, BC – December 3, 2024

Home sales registered in the MLS® in the Metro Vancouver market rose 28 percent year-over-year in November, building on the momentum of the 30 percent year-over-year increase seen in October.

The Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR) reports that residential sales in the region totaled 2,181 in November 2024, a 28.1 per cent increase from the 1,702 sales recorded in November 2023. This was 12.8 per cent below the 10-year seasonal average (2,500).

“When we saw demand pick up in October, there was still a question over whether it was a blip in the data or the start of an emerging trend,” said Andrew Lis, GVR’s director of economics and data analytics. “While…

532 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

Vancouver is often celebrated for its stunning landscapes, vibrant communities, and outdoor lifestyle. But is it equally friendly to our furry friends? If you’re a pet owner or thinking about getting a pet, this guide explores why Vancouver is a haven for pets and their humans.

Why Vancouver Is a Haven for Pet Owners

Vancouver’s pet-friendly vibe is reflected in its abundance of green spaces, welcoming policies, and community-minded culture. Let’s dive into the various ways this city makes life enjoyable for pets and their owners.

Parks and Green Spaces

Off-Leash Dog Parks

Vancouver is packed with off-leash dog parks where your pets can roam free. Top spots include Charleson Park and Fraser River Park, offering ample space and even…

337 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

Housing Markets Post Strong Rebound in October

Vancouver, BC – November 25, 2024. The British Columbia Real Estate Association (BCREA) reports that 7,119 residential unit sales were recorded in Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) Systems in October 2024, up 33.5 per cent from October 2023. The average MLS® residential price in BC in October 2024 was up 0.3 per cent at $970,845 compared to an average price of $968,256 in October 2023.

The total sales dollar volume was $6.9 billion, a 33.8 per cent increase from the same time the previous year. BC MLS® unit sales were eight per cent lower than the ten-year average for October.

“While it took longer than expected, a recovery in home sales to more normal levels has seemingly arrived,” said BCREA…

279 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

Canadian Retail Sales (September 2024)

Date: November 22, 2024

Canadian retail sales rose 0.4 per cent to $66.9 billion in September from the previous month. Compared to the same time last year, retail sales are up by 0.8 per cent. Furthermore, core retail sales, which exclude gasoline and automobile items, rose by 1.4 per cent month-over-month. In volume terms, adjusted for rising prices, retail sales rose 0.8 per cent in September.

For the third quarter of 2024, retail sales rose by 0.9 per cent overall and by 1.3 per cent in volume terms.

Regional Performance

Retail sales in British Columbia were up 0.6 per cent in September month-over-month, while down 0.5 per cent compared to the same time last year. In the CMA of Vancouver,…

353 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

Looking for the perfect place to call home in the thriving community of Richmond? Townhouses in Richmond offer a blend of affordability, style, and convenience, making them an ideal choice for first-time buyers, families, and savvy investors. In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of owning a townhouse in Richmond, highlight what makes this area so desirable, and guide you on how to find the best deals in the market.

Why Richmond is a Prime Location for Homebuyers

Richmond, a vibrant city nestled in the heart of Metro Vancouver, boasts a unique charm that attracts people from all walks of life. From its stunning natural beauty to its bustling urban centers, Richmond offers a balanced lifestyle that appeals to both young professionals and growing…

5157 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

Looking for exciting ways to spend your weekend in Vancouver? Whether you’re into dazzling holiday lights, unique shopping experiences, or family-friendly fun, the city has something for everyone. Let’s dive into the best events happening on November 23-24!

Surrey Tree Lighting Festival and Holiday Market

Event Overview

The Surrey Tree Lighting Festival is a magical way to kick off the holiday season. Known for its festive atmosphere, this event is packed with fun activities for all ages.

Dates, Time, and Location

When: November 23 and 24, 2024
Time: Noon to 8 pm
Where: Surrey Civic Plaza – 13450 104th Avenue, Surrey
Cost: Free

Key Attractions

Enjoy live music, food trucks, and amusement rides. Don’t miss the main event: the…

313 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

October Inflation Rose to 2.0% As Gasoline Price Declines Were More Muted

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 2.0% year-over-year in October, up from a 1.6% increase in September. Gasoline prices fell to a lesser extent in October (-4.0%) compared with September (-10.7%). The all-items CPI, excluding gasoline, rose 2.2% in October, the same growth rate as in August and September.

The smaller decline is partly attributed to a base-year effect, as prices fell 6.4% month over month in October 2023, stemming from lower refining margins and weaker global oil consumption.

On a monthly basis, prices for gasoline were up 0.7% in October, following a 7.1% decline in September.

Slower Rise in Shelter Prices

Shelter price growth continued to…

193 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

The Canadian Housing Market Shows Signs of Life

Canadian home sales surged to their highest level in more than two years as the Bank of Canada cut interest rates, bringing buyers back into the market. Home sales rose 7.7% month-over-month (m/m) in October, reaching their highest level since April 2022.

Rising home sales were broadly based, with the Greater Toronto Area and British Columbia's Lower Mainland recording double-digit increases in October. The buoyant housing demand was likely the result of the surge in new listings in recent months and the fall in mortgage rates arising from the BoC's easing. The jumbo rate cut, however, was in the last week of October, likely having little bearing on the monthly data released by the Canadian Real…

442 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post