Selling your property in British Columbia can be an exciting milestone, but it’s crucial to remember that taxes and fees when selling a home can significantly affect your bottom line. Many homeowners and investors focus on the sale price and overlook the various costs, especially taxes, that kick in when you sell. In B.C., understanding the taxes on selling a house ahead of time can save you from surprises before small problems become big ones. This comprehensive guide will walk you through what to expect, from capital gains on selling a house to the typical closing costs when selling a house, so you can plan a smooth, profitable sale with a professional but friendly approach.

1. Taxes on Selling a Principal Residence vs. Other Properties

If the…

1148 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

The Vancouver condo market has long been a hotspot for investors and retirees alike. Real estate in Vancouver is often seen as a ticket to future financial security, whether through rising property values or rental income. Lately, however, condos haven’t been the steady goldmine many hoped for. Sales have slowed, listings have swelled, and prices have even dipped in some cases. With the condo market downturn making headlines, many people are asking: is a condo a good investment for retirement anymore?

In this blog post, we’ll dive into what’s happening with condo prices in Vancouver, why condos became a popular real estate retirement plan, and what the current struggles mean for different folks – from retirees thinking of downsizing to a condo in…

1047 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

Canadian real GDP fell by 0.1 per cent in June, after declining by 0.1 per cent in May. Goods-producing sectors fell 0.5 per cent, while service-producing industries increased by 0.1 per cent. Sectoral growth was led by retail trade (1.4 per cent), wholesale trade (0.5 per cent), and construction (0.3 per cent). The biggest detractors from growth were from manufacturing (-1.5 per cent) and utilities (-1.2 per cent). Output for the offices of real-estate agents and brokers rose by 3.1 per cent month-over-month. Preliminary estimates suggest that real GDP by industry increased by 0.1 per cent in July.

Real GDP declined by 0.4 per cent in the second quarter of 2025, registering an annualized growth rate of -1.6 per cent. Contraction was driven by a…

678 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

For homeowners and investors in Vancouver, knowing when to renovate your house is crucial to protect both your property value and your comfort. Small issues in a home tend to snowball: what starts as a minor leak or crack can lead to extensive damage if left unchecked. In a rainy climate like Vancouver’s, for example, a tiny roof leak can quickly grow into a mold infestation or structural rot. By learning to spot these early home renovation signs, you can address problems proactively and avoid costly repairs down the road. Whether your reasons to remodel a home are fixing safety issues or updating an old design, timing is everything in home improvement.

Remodeling vs. Renovating: These terms are often used interchangeably, but they have different…

440 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

You're moving out of your home – maybe relocating for a job or upgrading to a bigger place – and now you're facing a big question: Should I sell or rent my home? The sell vs rent house dilemma has no one-size-fits-all answer because what's best depends on your unique situation. In this blog, we'll break down the pros and cons of each option and walk through key factors to help you make an informed decision for your home and finances.

Many homeowners find themselves torn between selling their house for a lump sum and renting it out for monthly income. If you're a first-time homeowner or even a real estate investor, you know this choice can feel overwhelming. On one hand, selling could mean cashing in on your home equity and walking away with profit. On…

631 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

Housing affordability is a pressing concern in Canada, especially for low-income renters. Rents have been climbing to record highs – for example, the average rent surpassed $2,200 per month in 2024, a 27.6% jump since 2021. With the cost of living rising across food, utilities, and other basics, many Canadians are finding it harder to make ends meet. Government housing benefits in Canada are an essential lifeline in this situation, offering rent support for low-income renters to help them keep a roof over their heads. In this post, we’ll break down the key rent assistance programs (federal and provincial), explain who is eligible, how to apply, and answer common questions. Our tone is friendly and conversational – consider this your guide to understanding…

1966 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

Selling a single-family home is a big decision, especially in a vibrant market like Vancouver. Whether you're a first-time seller or an experienced homeowner, being well-prepared can make the home selling process much smoother. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know before you put that "For Sale" sign up – from understanding the market and preparing your house for sale to pricing your home correctly and handling closing costs when selling a home. We’ll keep it casual yet professional, so grab a coffee and let’s get you ready to sell your home with confidence.

Understand the Vancouver Real Estate Market

One of the best real estate market tips for any seller is to start by understanding your local market. Vancouver’s housing…

666 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

Thinking about moving to a smaller home? Downsizing your home can feel like a big step, but it’s a move that many young families and homeowners in Vancouver (and across Canada) are considering. In simple terms, “downsizing” means selling your current house and buying a smaller one – often to save money, reduce upkeep, or better fit a changing lifestyle. If you’re asking, “Should I sell my house and buy smaller?”, you’re not alone. 2025 might be an especially smart time to make this move. This friendly guide will walk you through why 2025 could be a good year to downsize, the financial benefits and possible drawbacks, plus tips for a smooth transition. We’ll focus on Vancouver, Canada, but many points apply broadly. Let’s dive in!

What Does Downsizing…

1157 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

Second-Half Recovery in 2025 Sets Up a Brighter 2026

Vancouver, BC – August 21, 2025. The British Columbia Real Estate Association (BCREA) released its 2025 Third Quarter Housing Forecast Update today.

Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) residential sales in BC are forecast to fall 2.2 per cent to 72,840 units this year. In 2026, MLS® residential sales are forecast to move higher, rising 10.7 per cent to 80,600 units.

“Trade-related uncertainty upended hopes for a more normal market through the first half of 2025,” said BCREA Chief Economist Brendon Ogmundson. “While provincial home sales remain weak overall, particularly in the Lower Mainland, many markets are now returning to long-run average sales activity and should head into 2026 with some…

1094 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

Vancouver is often ranked as one of the most desirable places to retire, thanks to its natural beauty, mild climate, and excellent quality of life. As seniors become the fastest-growing demographic in the city, many are asking: where are the best neighborhoods for seniors in Vancouver? This comprehensive guide explores senior living in Vancouver, highlighting the top areas, housing options, and lifestyle amenities that make this city senior-friendly. Whether you’re planning to retire in Vancouver or helping a loved one find the ideal spot, read on to discover Vancouver’s most welcoming communities for older adults.

What Makes a Neighborhood Senior-Friendly?

Not all neighborhoods are created equal when it comes to senior comfort and convenience.…

1214 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post