Nanaimo and Vancouver Island News and updates

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EXPLORING OLD CITY QUARTER

Walking into the Old City Quarter is like taking a delightful little step back in time. You can’t help but notice the beautiful old buildings, each with its own story, and those charming brick-lined streets. It’s got this wonderful, welcoming vibe that’s just so different from your typical shopping areas. For me, it’s easily one of our most treasured Nanaimo landmarks because it really shows off the true character of our harbour city.

Fridges With Flair

Think retro-inspired mint green fridges, canary yellow ranges, or a cherry-red kettle that practically winks at you from the counter. Designers call it “kitschen” — a playful, personality-packed look that’s part nostalgia, part design rebellion. And it works beautifully with the cottagey, coastal character of so many Island homes.

Architecture Can Embrace the Wild

On the lush, rain-kissed shores of Vancouver Island, we often speak about living in harmony with nature. But few homes embody that philosophy as purely as the Newberg Residence in Oregon—a masterful design by Jim Cutler of Cutler Anderson Architects. Perched like a bridge over a former logging pond, the home dissolves the line between structure and setting, becoming part of the ecosystem rather than interrupting it.

Gracewood at Fairwinds

Set on over 20 acres of natural landscape, Gracewood will feature 53 spacious lots ranging from 0.3 to 0.5 acres. This new phase is designed to blend beautifully with the surrounding forest and coastal setting, including a central park space for residents to enjoy.

Vancouver Island Real Estate Emerges as a Hotspot Amid Lower Mainland Pressures 

Despite the current fall of housing prices in British Columbia’s Lower Mainland from their excessive heights, a growing number of homebuyers and investors are turning their attention to Vancouver Island real estate. With its comparatively lower property prices, relaxed lifestyle, and strong community ties, the island is quickly becoming a compelling alternative for those seeking both affordability and quality of life.

Pet-Friendly Nanaimo: Paws-itively Perfect

Are you dreaming of a getaway where your furry best friend can join in on all the fun? Look no further than Nanaimo, British Columbia! Nestled on the stunning east coast of Vancouver Island, Nanaimo is a vibrant pet-friendly city surrounded by natural beauty – and it’s increasingly becoming a paradise for animals and people.

HUGE First-Time Home Buyers GST Exemption

Hey Nanaimo! If you’ve been scrolling through listings, dreaming of that perfect first home by the ocean or tucked away in a quiet neighbourhood, you’re in for some fantastic news. The federal government just dropped a major game-changer that could make Nanaimo homeownership a much more attainable reality for many of you: a brand-new GST […]

June 2025 Events

Hey Nanaimo! Spring is in full swing, and so is the calendar of exciting local events happening this May! Get ready to mark your calendars and head out for some fun around town. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s coming up!