Buyers

I have lived in Vancouver for over 30 years and I have experienced many of these events myself. Its a pleasure to showcase them here for you.Vancouver is a vibrant and exciting city, with plenty of activities to keep locals and visitors alike busy throughout the year. With so many annual events taking place in Vancouver, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. From art shows to music festivals, this coastal Canadian metropolis has it all.Must-Know HighlightsVancouver plays host to ...

When it comes to deciding whether Airbnb is allowed in Vancouver BC, the answer depends on who you ask. As an experienced Realtor and long-time resident of this bustling city, I can tell you that there are pros and cons associated with renting out a property through Airbnb. From my perspective as an experienced Realtor in Vancouver for 20 years, understanding the local regulations surrounding short-term rentals is key for both landlords and tenants looking to take advantage of what A ...

Are you considering buying a condo in BC Canada? It's an attractive option for many people due to the affordability and convenience of condo living. Compared to buying a house in Vancouver , which can be extremely expensive, condos often provide a more budget-friendly entry into the real estate market. Additionally, condos come with amenities like shared gyms, pools, and maintenance services, making them a hassle-free choice for many buyers. But, before you make your final decision, it’s i ...

Do you want to buy an old house? Old homes have character and advantages. As a real estate expert , I'll explain the advantages of buying an older home. Buying an old home has many benefits, from cost savings to historic preservation. Let's examine their benefits! From my personal experience, cost savings are the first benefit of buying an old home. Fixer-uppers and distressed properties often cost less than newer homes. Many cities offer tax incentives for heritage building restoratio ...

Buying a house is a major and exciting life decision. It's also a huge financial commitment, making the down payment difficult for many. You can buy a house in Canada without a down payment! I'll explain the process in this article so you can start planning your dream home today. In order to successfully navigate the real estate market, it’s essential to understand the various steps involved. From conducting thorough research to exploring financing options, each part of the process play ...

Buying a home is one of the  biggest investments  you’ll make, but navigating the process can be downright daunting. Did you know that getting  pre-approved for a mortgage  before making your offer not only  expedites the buying process  but also  reassures sellers  you’re serious? To make an offer on a house in BC , follow these steps: 1. Determine your budget with mortgage pre-approval. 2. Work with a real estate agent to draft an offer. 3. ...

Selling a house to a friend is difficult. Selling your home to a friend involves many factors beyond money. Selling your house to a friend in Canada can be easy with some planning and knowledge of Canadian laws and regulations! I'll explain how to sell your house to a Canadian friend in this article. I'll help you navigate taxes, mortgages, and trust-building with your buyer. I'll also share tips for keeping everyone comfortable throughout the transaction, based on my own experience as a ...

  Buying a house  is a major life choice. It involves complex legal processes, financial commitments, and other factors. So if you’re both Canadian, buying a house with your parents is even more complicated! We have all the information you need to navigate this tricky process. This article discusses the pros and cons of  buying a home  with your parents. I’ll give step-by-step advice based on my experience and research into Canadian laws and regulations. Whether you need general infor ...

Canada's divorced homebuyers face challenges. Though difficult, it's possible. This guide will help you through a separation, whether you're in the middle or just finished. Let me show you how to buy property after a divorce—I know from personal experience that it's hard enough! Key TakeawaySeek Legal Advice. My investigation demonstrated that, it's best to wait 12 months after separation before buying a home in Canada because each province has different laws. If you are in the process ...

  Hi there! Are you buying or selling property? What is a "non-length arm's transaction"? Don't worry—I'll help. I'll explain how non-length arm's transactions could affect your real estate deal in this article. Quick Takeaway: A non-arm’s length transaction in real estate occurs when buyers and sellers have a pre-existing relationship, such as family members or business partners. These transactions can raise concerns about fair market value and may face stricter lende ...

Good day, dear readers! We are sure you are here because you are looking for a step-by-step guide on how to buy a house for your beloved parents.   Buying a house  for your parents is such a touching and meaningful gesture – why not give them the stability of owning their own home? You may be one of the lucky ones with the financial means to purchase a house for your parents – and what a noble thing to do! As individuals age, they tend to require more assistance and support from their ...

Buying a house is one of the most important financial decisions you will make in your life. It involves a lot of questions, research, and paperwork, and can be overwhelming, especially if you're looking to buy a house with multiple owners. Multiple owners may mean multiple mortgages , multiple deed transfer documents, multiple responsibilities and different points of view, while negotiating a single set of terms . It's important to have confidence in the process and have a clear underst ...

Purchasing a home from a relative can be an excellent way to climb onto the property ladder. But navigating the legal and financial complexity requires preparation. Key TakeawaysLet's start with an overview of the key steps and considerations:Consult professionals to handle legal matters and taxes appropriatelyResearch financing options thoroughly and budget for all costsAppraise the property and agree on fair market value priceMaintain open communication and se ...

You’ve found the perfect house and you can already imagine yourself living there. But, when you check out the listing, it says “pending sale.” Is all hope lost? Not necessarily! Making an offer on a pending sale can be tricky but if done correctly, you could find yourself in your dream home sooner than expected. In this article, I'm going to share from my own experience some tips and tricks that will help you make an offer on a pending sale like a pro - so keep reading! We’ll c ...

 Buying a house is never easy, especially when you're juggling multiple property interests. In British Columbia (BC), it's  legally possible  for homebuyers to  place an offer on more than one house  simultaneously. This blog will carefully guide you through the  complexities and potential pitfalls  of this strategy, equipping you with vital knowledge to navigate these murky waters confidently. Keep reading; our tips can be your compass in the tumultuous seas of BC’s real estate market! ...

  Hi there, I'm here to talk about dates in a real estate offer in BC, Canada, from my own experience. Whether you're an experienced property investor or someone who's just starting out, understanding the timeline of events that come into play when making an offer is essential for success. After all, it can make a huge difference if your offer gets accepted! In this article, I'm going to discuss what dates you need to know and why they matter so much. So let's get started! As you probably ...

Buying a house in Vancouver can be an exciting yet daunting process. Understanding the Vancouver real estate market is crucial when considering purchasing a property in the city. To buy a house in Vancouver, start by securing mortgage pre-approval to know your budget. Next, hire a real estate agent familiar with the Vancouver market. Research neighborhoods, attend viewings, and make an offer once you find a suitable property. Complete the inspection, finalize financing, and close th ...

Pros And Cons Of Buying A Single Family Home In Canada Are you considering buying a single family home in Canada? It's an exciting but daunting prospect! On the one hand, it can be a great investment and provide stability for your family. But on the other hand, there are many important factors to consider such as cost of living, taxes, insurance rates and more. Plus with mortgage interest rates being higher right now, it could be just the right time to invest in a property purchase. ...

Renting a home with the option to buy can seem like a great idea. You get to move into the house right away without having to qualify for a mortgage loan or save up a down payment. But rent-to-own agreements come with risks that you need to fully understand before signing on the dotted line. Let’s weigh the pros and cons so you can decide if rent-to-own is your pathway to homeownership.Keep Reading:Is It Better to Sell Your Home or Rent it Out?What Are the Advantages and Disadv ...

Can I buy a house in Canada on work permit?Canada's red-hot housing market has left many potential homebuyers priced out. In response, the federal government enacted a two-year ban prohibiting most foreigners from purchasing residential property, effective January 1, 2023. But the devil is in the details, and many on temporary work permits are wondering if they can still buy a home. Let's break it down.Key TakeawaysA federal law bans most foreigners from buying homes in Can ...

The idea of buying a house during an economic recession may seem scary. After all, recessions mean job losses, falling home prices, and tighter lending standards. But surprisingly, a recession can actually be one of the best times to buy real estate. Here's a comprehensive look at the pros and cons of buying a home during a downturn.What is a Recession?First, let's define what a recession actually is.Key Characteristics of a RecessionA significant decline in economic activi ...

In Canada, you've got several types of home ownership to contemplate, each with its own perks and drawbacks. Freehold ownership gives you full control and is often a favorite for detached homes, while leasehold means you own the building, not the land—lower costs, but some limitations. Strata title suits community lovers with shared amenities and fees. Plus, co-ownership lets you share the financial load with others. Curious about what might be best for you? Stick around for more insights!Key ...

Using a buyer's agent can be a total game changer when you're house hunting! They have your back, helping you snag the best deal while spotting potential problem areas. Plus, they know all about local market trends, which is super handy! But watch out—there might be some extra costs involved. It's a mixed bag: you'll get expert help, but finding the right agent takes time. Stick around to discover tips that make choosing the right one a breeze!Key TakeawaysA buyer's ag ...

How to Negotiate a House Price As A BuyerWhen negotiating house prices, understanding the market is crucial—if it's a seller's market , you might want to start by offering 5-10% below the asking price. Show confidence with a solid pre-approval letter and consider boosting your earnest money . A skilled real estate agent can steer you through counteroffers and know the neighborhood's dynamics. Plus, if you can tap into the seller's motivations, you'll be in a stronger position. Keep going, ...

As 2024 starts, it's time to reflect on 2043 as another year of twists and turns in Canadian real estate. From soaring mortgage rates to tax changes aimed at cooling markets, it has been a volatile ride.While uncertainty still looms in 2025, my decades of experience provide perspective. I've gleaned key insights to help homebuyers, sellers and investors navigate whatever comes next.Key TakeawaysSales and listings trended down in 2024 from lofty highs, but prices showed resilience ...

If you’re thinking about buying a condo in Vancouver, you should know how much the monthly maintenance fee s will be. Quick Takeaway: The fee can vary widely from one hundred to thousands dollars a month depending on the size of the unit, or 0.40ish cents per square foot. The age of the building is also a factor, as older buildings will require more work and repairs, which are passed on to the condo owner. Read More: How To Buy a Condo in Vancouver For older buildings, the fees may be ...

Buying your first home can be an exciting but daunting process. As a first-time home buyer, it's important to be aware of the common mistakes that people in your position often make. By knowing what to avoid, you can navigate the home buying process with confidence and make informed decisions. Key Takeaways:Many first-time home buyers make mistakes during the purchasing process .Common mistakes first-time home buyers make include not getting pre-approved, underestimating costs, ...

Buying a house or travelling the world has been debated for centuries. Like standing at a crossroads and not knowing which way to go. Roots and stability versus adventure, freedom, and exploration. Both paths are uncertain but can lead to amazing experiences if chosen correctly. Buy a house or travel the world? It depends on personal preference and circumstances. I'll explore all sides of this debate, from financial implications to lifestyle choices, to help you decide! My insights help ...

Homebuying can be thrilling and terrifying. You may have many questions if you're considering using multiple real estate agents . Is it legal? Is that wise? How would it work? I'll answer all your questions from my experience and expertise! This article describes using multiple real estate agents when buying a home. There is a different between a real estate agent however. In BC, Canada, you can use multiple real estate agents as a buyer, but it may lead to complications. Agents ...

Are you in the process of buying a house and not sure if the title is in your name? Or perhaps you are curious about how to know whether or not the title of a property has been transferred into your name? Well, understanding real estate titles can be confusing, but it doesn't have to be. In this article I'll walk you through all that you need to know when it comes to knowing if the title of a house is in your name in BC. We'll explore the necessary steps to verify ownership, the documents ...

Buying a house is one of the most exciting moments in life! You can’t wait to move in and make it your own, but do you really know what you’re getting? When you buy a house, do you actually own everything that comes with it? It's worth taking some time to get clued up on exactly what rights are included when you purchclase a property. Let me tell ya, I remember when I bought my first place - it was an amazing feeling but also daunting as there were so many things to think about. Recen ...

Title fraud is a growing threat to Canadian homeowners. This type of fraud involves stealing the legal ownership of a property through identity theft and fraudulent documentation. The criminals then sell or remortgage the home without the real owner's knowledge or consent. Victims often don't realize what's happened until they try to access their home equity or sell their house. Fortunately, there are precautions you can take to reduce your risk.Key TakeawaysMonitor your credit and ...

Are you building a new home or investment property? If so, it’s important to understand the importance of owner’s title insurance.In this article, I'll explain why an owner's title insurance policy is essential for new construction and what benefits it provides.It can be daunting having to navigate all the unfamiliar paperwork that comes along with buying a house—trust me, I know! But taking the time to research and educate yourself on everything related to your purchase will save y ...

Are you considering buying a townhouse? The pros of buying a townhouse in BC, Canada include affordability compared to detached homes, lower maintenance since exterior upkeep is typically covered, and access to shared amenities. The cons include limited privacy due to shared walls, potential strata fees, and restrictions on property modifications.In this article, I’m going to discuss everything you need to know about buying a townhouse – from the advantages and disadvantages thr ...

Buying a pre-rental property can be an exciting and profitable endeavor for many people. After all, it’s the perfect opportunity to move into your own home or get some extra income from rent payments. But what are the pros and cons of buying a pre-rental property? Before making a decision, it's crucial to weigh factors such as property condition, market demand, and potential renovation costs. Understanding renttoown homes pros and cons can also help determine whether a lease-to-own option m ...

Moving is exciting but stressful. Many of my clients can attest to extreme levels of stress when buying or selling. It can be as exciting as going on stage or as terrifying as learning to play guitar in public! Buying your first home or moving to a bigger one has pros and cons. Quick TakeawayWhen purchasing a newly constructed home, one of the benefits is the ability to customize and arrange the layout. On the other hand, existing homes tend to be cheaper than new builds. P ...

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you were so sure of buying a house only to discover after an inspection that it's not the right fit for you? We've all been there! It can be really hard to back out of such commitments, but the truth is that it's sometimes necessary. In this article, I'll cover all the things you need to consider before backing out of buying a house after an inspection. You'll learn when and why it makes sense to do so, as well as how to go about mak ...

Hey there! Are you planning to buy a new house? Congratulations, that's an exciting endeavor. Buying a home is no small investment and it’s important to make sure you’re getting the best deal for your hard-earned money.Have you heard about bringing a contractor along to the home inspection process? You might be wondering if this is normal or not—well I'm here to tell ya, it absolutely can be based on my practical experience of 20 years and more!In this article we'll cover all the de ...

Finding a good home inspector can seem like an overwhelming task. After all, the person you choose to inspect your future home could make or break your entire real estate experience!So how do you find someone that’s reliable and trustworthy? Well, I’m here to tell ya – it’s not as hard as it seems.In this article, I’ll walk you through some of the key points for finding a great home inspector. From tips on what questions to ask prospective inspectors, to suggestions on where to look for qua ...

Are you wondering if it’s time to renovate or demolish your house? It can be a  difficult decision  with so much at stake. This article will explore the pros and cons of both options, helping you decide which is best for you. I know first-hand how daunting this situation can feel; I had to make the same tough choice myself recently. But after researching my options and weighing up all the factors involved, I was able to come to an informed conclusion in the Real Estate Glossary that ...

Tax sales occur annually in cities across British Columbia when property owners fall delinquent on their property taxes. After three years of unpaid taxes, municipalities can auction these properties to recoup the unpaid taxes. Tax sales represent an opportunity for new homebuyers or real estate investors to purchase property, often at below market value. However, buying property at a tax sale also carries risks. This guide will provide an overview of tax sales in four major Met ...

High interest rates are shaking up the Canadian housing market, making it tough for you to afford a home. With mortgage payments skyrocketing, first-time buyers like you might feel overwhelmed. It's also causing fewer new homes to be built, which means there's limited supply and fierce competition—think bidding wars ! But hang on, there might be hope for more affordable rates down the road. Stick around to uncover what these changes really mean for you! High interest rates reduce home affo ...

Are log homes in BC Canada more expensive to insure? Log cabins are becoming an increasingly popular choice for Canadians looking for a beautiful, rustic home. But is the cost of insurance worth it? In this article, we'll explore the pros and cons of insuring a log cabin in Canada. I'll look at how much coverage you need based on where your cabin is located, what kind of risks come with owning a log home, and whether or not it's economically viable to pay for all that extra protection. I'l ...

Have you ever dreamed of living on the waterfront? If so, you’re not alone! Owning property with a view of the lake or ocean is an attractive idea for many people. But before jumping into such a big commitment it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of buying waterfront property in Canada – that way, you can make sure your dream doesn’t turn out to be a nightmare! In this article, we’ll explore some of the key considerations when purchasing waterfront real estate. First, let’s look at wh ...

The Pros And Cons Of Owning A Mansion In Canada? Have you ever dreamed of owning a grand mansion? A place that is your own and comes with all the luxuries imaginable. Well, if you live in Canada , this dream could become reality! Owning a mansion in Canada has its pros and cons but can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Let me take you through what it's like to own a Canadian mansion – from the financial considerations to the lifestyle benefits. The idea of owning a large estate migh ...

Determining the true value of your home can be confusing. You likely receive a property assessment notice from BC Assessment each year with an assessed value. But is this the same as the market value - what buyers are actually willing to pay? The differences between assessed value and market value are important to understand, especially if you plan to sell your home . This guide will explain how each value is determined in British Columbia and why there is often a discrepancy between the t ...

We have always said that Home buyers should always have their own agent. But now, as of 2018, BCFSA ( BC Financial Services Authority ) has mandated that dual agency is not allowed . This means that you NEED an agent representing your side because the listing agent is only allowed to look out for the Seller's interest and cannot even advise you on pricing. The good news? They are free! Quick Answer:When buying a home , it is important to take the time to find a buyer’s agen ...

How Do Real Estate Agents Find Sellers? Hey there, looking to sell your property ? You may be wondering how real estate agents find sellers. Well, let me tell you! In this article, I’ll break down the various methods and strategies that savvy real estate agents use to locate potential home buyers. As someone who has been working as a luxury realtor for more than 20 years now, I have seen firsthand what it takes to be successful in this field. From traditional marketing techniques like ...

Thinking about buying a house before selling yours in Canada? It's a bit of a balancing act ! On one hand, you can secure your dream home without rushing, especially in a hot market where properties fly off the shelves. But watch out! Juggling two mortgages can be a real headache. So, look into bridge loans, keep an eye on closing dates, and don't underestimate the value of a savvy real estate agent . Stick around, and I'll share more tips to make this process smoother! Key Takeaways ...

Yes, a corporation can buy a house in Canada. Businesses often purchase real estate for rental income, employee housing, or investment purposes. Corporate-owned properties may have tax advantages but also face higher tax rates, stricter financing rules, and legal complexities. Consulting a tax professional is recommended.In this article, we'll explore the ins-and-outs of corporate property purchases in Canada . I'll cover all aspects of the purchase including legalities, tax i ...

  How Much Will A Home Appraisal Cost In In BC Canada Ah, home appraisals - the bane of any homeowner's existence… and wallet. We can all relate to that sinking feeling in our stomachs when we find out just how much these dreaded appraisals are gonna cost us! A home appraisal in BC typically costs between $300 and $600 , depending on property size, location, and complexity. Lenders require appraisals for mortgage approvals to determine a home's market value. Fees may be higher for rura ...