Sales around the province have surged back to pre-COVID-19 levels in June. These may be temporary as pent up demand could be a factor helping push this demand forward. I am continually watching and monitoring to see if prevailing trends will remain.
Nanaimo and Vancouver Island News and updates
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Safe Camping Tips 2020
Families look forward to camping season and although we are still dealing with COVID-19, the exciting news is we are allowed to camp. As most campgrounds in our beautiful province have now reopened, we have compiled a list of safety tips that are great for camping as well as for any outdoor activity. We also have attached a handy PDF from BC Parks on their expectations of campers this summer.
May 2020 Market Update
The question I am asked the most these days is what is the Real Estate outlook for the central Island area? As difficult as it is to predict how long it will take for Canada’s housing market to recover, one thing for certain is that the impact in our area will be less affected.
Happy Canada Day!
Canada Day celebrations across the country will look quite different this year. Show your national pride and create your own Canada Day celebrations closer to home in your own backyard!
New CMHC Rules For Homebuyers 2020
Starting July 1st, it will be harder for homebuyers to qualify for mortgage default insurance as Canada’s federal housing agency is tightening around insured mortgage applications.
COVID-19 Regulations
As we enter another month of physical distancing with the possibility of reduced restrictions by the end of May, life has evolved as “new normals” are adopted. Although everyone has been affected differently, we have all been forced to acclimate to a new way of living. These times have compelled us to navigate our new realities together.
Homeowners of B.C. – Speculation Tax Reminder
A friendly reminder to our clients! You would have received your “declaration” package in the mail mid-January to mid-February and a prompt to claim an exemption from the speculation and vacancy tax. We understand during these current exceptional events our country and the world is experiencing, it may have been put off or forgotten. We would like to this time to remind you that you have until March 31st to claim your exemption.
Real Estate Terminology Explained
One of the most complex transactions most consumers will ever complete is buying a home. Therefore it is very important to understand what you are getting into. The following is a list of some common real-estate terminology and their definitions to help you on your way…
Quick Facts: Mortgage Stress Test Changes
Buying a home is one of the most important investments of a lifetime. The Department of Finance has confirmed that as of April 6th, 2020, home buyers getting insured mortgages will have a much easier time qualifying.
Housing Market in BC Getting Stronger
I see the housing market in BC continuing to be stronger in 2020 and I expect we may go back to a more typical year of home sales as markets recover from the policy-induced slowdown of the past two years.
B.C. Strata Insurance Rates Increasing
Insurance companies are hiking building insurance premiums to unprecedented levels causing a severe impact on consumers in the condo sector in B.C.
10 Worthwhile Home Renovations
We are often asked what are the most important areas of the home to renovate when it comes time to sell. Strategic upgrades will increase the value of your home and they don’t have to be major renovations. We have compiled a list that will go a long way in improving the value of your home and appeal to buyers. The following 10 home upgrades range from DIY to more major renovations. Happy Renovating!
