With the cooler temperatures and falling leaves we are reminded that the fall season is quickly upon us. As the seasons change so do our activities and the needs around the home. It’s a great time to do some seasonal maintenance to keep your home running smoothly and efficiently. Some attention now will ensure you are not caught unprepared. We’ve prepared an easy checklist to help give your home some TLC for the months ahead.
Nanaimo and Vancouver Island News and updates
Blog
August 2020 Market Update
Much like the stock market we are seeing a rebound in sales in the Canadian and local Real Estate sector. In our local market I can almost measure the loss of sales from February to May against the increase in June and July reflecting the short-term demand shock from the housing market shutting down.
Hiking Trails of Vancouver Island
As summer winds to a close there is still plenty of time to enjoy adventurous pursuits at some of Vancouver Island’s scenic hiking trails. With weather being a perfect mix of sun and fresh breezes this is the time to explore some favourite trails or discover some new ones whether setting out on foot, two wheels or with your best canine friend. Get your camera ready for our top picks of the month!
Vancouver Island Backyard Adventures
Enjoy a staycation in gorgeous Vancouver Island’s back yard. Whether it’s for an extended road trip or day trip we have compiled a list of must-see places that are sure to amaze and delight this summer!
Sales Surge in June
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.
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…
