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Staying ahead for my Vancouver real estate clients at PacificWest 2026

Today I’m at PacificWest 2026 at the Vancouver Convention Centre, connecting with real estate professionals, industry leaders, and technology providers from across Canada.

For me, attending a conference like PacificWest is not simply about seeing what is new in the industry. It is about continuing to improve the way I serve my clients here in Vancouver.

Better knowledge means better guidance

Real estate continues to change. Buyers and sellers have access to more information than ever, technology is moving quickly, and the tools available to market homes, analyze opportunities, and communicate with clients continue to evolve.

Staying current allows me to bring better information and more efficient processes into every client relationship. Whether I am helping someone purchase a home in Vancouver or preparing a property for sale, my goal is to make sure my clients benefit from the strongest tools, strategies, and resources available.

Learning how technology can improve the client experience

One of the areas I am especially focused on at PacificWest is real estate technology. The right technology should not make the process more complicated. It should help make buying or selling a home clearer, faster, and easier to navigate.

That can mean better ways to:

  • identify and monitor relevant Vancouver real estate opportunities,
  • present and market a property to potential buyers,
  • communicate important information throughout a transaction,
  • understand market activity and changing conditions, and
  • keep clients informed without adding unnecessary complexity.

Investing in my skills is an investment in my clients

Real estate is a profession where learning never really stops. Markets change, technology changes, and client expectations change with them.

Being at PacificWest gives me an opportunity to learn from other professionals, explore new ideas, and evaluate which tools can genuinely improve the service I provide. I do not believe in adopting technology simply because it is new. What matters is whether it can help me give buyers and sellers better advice, stronger marketing, clearer communication, or a smoother overall experience.

Bringing the best ideas back to my Vancouver clients

Ultimately, that is why I am here.

I want my clients to know that when they work with me, they are working with a REALTOR® who is committed to continually improving, staying informed, and using modern tools thoughtfully.

If you are thinking about buying or selling real estate in Vancouver, I would be happy to talk about your plans, answer your questions, and help you understand what is happening in the market.

Get in touch to start a conversation about your next move in Vancouver real estate.

This website may only be used by consumers that have a bona fide interest in the purchase, sale, or lease of real estate of the type being offered via the website. The data relating to real estate on this website comes in part from the MLS® Reciprocity program of the PropTx MLS®. The data is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed to be accurate.

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We’re at PacificWest 2026 in Vancouver. Come say hello to myRealPage

We’re at PacificWest 2026, and we would love to see you at the Vancouver Convention Centre. The conference brings real estate professionals together on September 28 and 29 for two days of practical ideas, new connections, and conversations about where the industry is headed.

What is PacificWest?

Co-hosted by Greater Vancouver REALTORS® and the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board, PacificWest features speakers, seminars, workshops, networking, and a trade show. This year’s program looks at the market, technology, leadership, and strategies agents can bring back to their businesses.

Who should attend?

PacificWest is built for REALTORS® and other real estate professionals who want to learn from peers, explore tools and services, and make connections across the industry. Whether you are refining your marketing, growing your business, or looking for fresh ideas, there is plenty to discover.

Come say hello to myRealPage

We’re here representing myRealPage and looking forward to meeting agents and brokers in person. Stop by to talk with us about your real estate website, IDX search, lead generation, newsletters, and ways to make your marketing easier to manage. We would love to hear what you are working on and show you what is possible.

PacificWest takes place September 28–29, 2026, at the Vancouver Convention Centre East, 999 Canada Place. See the official conference details. If you are attending, come find myRealPage. We would love to see you here.

This website may only be used by consumers that have a bona fide interest in the purchase, sale, or lease of real estate of the type being offered via the website. The data relating to real estate on this website comes in part from the MLS® Reciprocity program of the PropTx MLS®. The data is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed to be accurate.

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Richmond, BC real estate market update: what buyers and sellers need to know

If you're thinking about buying or selling in Richmond this fall, here's where things stand. Inventory has grown, price growth has cooled, and buyers are finding more room to negotiate than they have in some time. Here's a closer look at the numbers and what they mean for you.

Overall market: a buyer's market

Richmond is currently trending toward a buyer's market across all property types. With roughly 2,000 active listings and around 108 sales in the past 30 days, the absorption rate sits near 5%, meaning only a small share of available homes are selling each month. The average sold price is close to $936,000, down roughly 9% from the 90-day average, and homes are taking about 44 days to sell.

For buyers, this shift means more selection and more negotiating power than the market has offered recently. For sellers, it's a reminder that pricing strategy and presentation matter more when competition is higher.

Two-storey detached home in a Richmond, BC neighbourhood

Detached homes: more listings, steady pricing

The detached home segment tells a slightly different story. Around 700 houses are currently listed, with roughly 22 sales in the last 30 days and an absorption rate near 3%. Average sold prices are holding closer to $1.85 million, essentially flat to slightly up compared to the recent 90-day average, even as days on market stretch to around 45.

In other words, well-priced, well-presented single-family homes are still finding buyers, even though overall competition has eased.

What this means if you're buying

  • You have more time to research neighbourhoods and compare options before committing.
  • There's more room to negotiate on price, closing dates, and conditions.
  • Pre-approval and a clear sense of your budget still matter in a market that can shift quickly.

What this means if you're selling

  • Accurate pricing from day one is more important than ever; overpricing in a buyer's market often leads to longer days on market.
  • Presentation, professional photography, and staging can help your home stand out among more listings.
  • Flexibility on conditions and timelines can make your property more attractive to cautious buyers.

Thinking about your next move?

Every property and every situation is different, and market-wide numbers only tell part of the story. If you'd like a personalized read on your street, your home's value, or your buying options in today's Richmond market, reach out and let's talk it through.

Market data referenced above reflects recent MLS® board statistics for Richmond, BC and is subject to change. This information is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed to be accurate; please consult directly for the most current figures.

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Ottawa real estate market update: What the latest numbers mean for buyers and sellers

Ottawa’s fall real estate market is opening with more choice for buyers, steadier prices, and a slower pace of sales. The latest completed monthly figures, released by the Ottawa Real Estate Board on September 3, cover August 2026 and point to a market that remains broadly balanced, but with softer demand than we saw earlier in the summer.

Ottawa market at a glance

  • 1,002 homes sold, down 18.6% from August 2025 and 24.4% from July 2026.
  • $688,253 average sale price, up 0.3% year over year.
  • $637,700 composite benchmark price, up 1.0% from a year earlier.
  • 4,496 active listings, up 11.3% year over year.
  • 4.5 months of inventory, compared with 3.5 months in July.
  • 47.3% sales-to-new-listings ratio, a reading consistent with balanced conditions.
  • Homes sold for an average of 97.9% of their listing price, with a median of 29 days on market.

The key story is that sales slowed much faster than prices. This is not a broad price correction. Instead, buyers are taking more time, inventory is lasting longer, and sellers are competing more directly for serious offers.

What this means for Ottawa buyers

Buyers are entering the fall with improved negotiating conditions. More active inventory and fewer completed sales can create room to compare properties, review documents carefully, and include reasonable conditions where the specific property allows.

  • There may be less pressure to rush. With 4.5 months of inventory citywide, buyers generally have more time than they did in tighter markets.
  • Negotiation is property-specific. The average home sold at 97.9% of list price, but a well-priced home in a desirable area can still attract strong interest.
  • Property type matters. Apartments recorded 6.3 months of inventory and a median of 42 days on market, giving many condo buyers more selection. Single-family homes remained comparatively stable, with 4.0 months of inventory.
  • Preparation still creates an advantage. A current mortgage pre-approval, a clear budget, and a neighbourhood-by-neighbourhood comparison can help buyers act confidently when the right home appears.

The citywide numbers are useful context, but they should not replace a local review. Conditions in Ottawa Center and Rural East were softer than those in Ottawa Suburb West, and individual neighbourhoods can behave differently from the broader market.

What this means for Ottawa sellers

Sellers should expect a more selective buyer pool. Stable prices are encouraging, but higher inventory means presentation, positioning, and pricing need to work together from the first day on the market.

  • Price for today’s competition. Buyers can compare more options, so pricing from older peak-market expectations may lead to longer market time.
  • The launch matters. Professional photography, accurate listing details, and a clear showing strategy can help a property stand out.
  • Review feedback early. If showings are limited or interested buyers are not writing offers, the market may be signalling that the price or presentation needs adjustment.
  • Plan for property-type differences. Townhouse benchmark prices were 4.0% lower year over year, while the single-family benchmark increased 2.2%. A broad Ottawa average does not tell the whole story.

Some listings left the market during the summer through terminations, cancellations, or expirations rather than completed sales. If those properties return for the fall market, sellers may face additional competition. A neighbourhood-level pricing strategy will be more useful than relying on the citywide average alone.

The bottom line for September

Ottawa remains a balanced market, but the balance has shifted toward more choice and more negotiating time for buyers. Sellers can still achieve strong outcomes, especially when a home is well-prepared and accurately priced, but patience and a realistic strategy are increasingly important.

One month does not establish a lasting trend. The next question is whether August’s sales slowdown was temporary or continues through the fall. TRU Realty will be watching new listings, buyer activity, and neighbourhood-level absorption closely as September unfolds.

Thinking about buying or selling in Ottawa? Contact TRU Realty for a professional review of the conditions affecting your preferred neighbourhood and property type.

Source: Ottawa Real Estate Board, August 2026 market update, released September 3, 2026.

This website may only be used by consumers that have a bona fide interest in the purchase, sale, or lease of real estate of the type being offered via the website. The data relating to real estate on this website comes in part from the MLS® Reciprocity program of the PropTx MLS®. The data is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed to be accurate.

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June 2026 Vancouver Real Estate Market Report: Broad-Based Recovery Takes Hold

Demand Returns Across All Property Types

After months of mixed signals and sideways momentum, Vancouver's housing market delivered something noteworthy in June 2026: across-the-board gains in sales activity. Metro Vancouver recorded 2,390 residential transactions during the month, marking a 9.6% increase year-over-year and the first time in recent memory that detached homes, townhouses, and apartments all posted simultaneous growth. Detached home sales surged 13.7% to 747 units, townhouse sales climbed 11.4% to 527, and apartment sales rose 6.1% to 1,103—a pattern that signals demand may finally be returning to the market more broadly.

This synchronized uptick across all property segments represents a notable departure from the fragmented recovery patterns observed throughout the previous quarters. Earlier in 2026, market activity was characterized by inconsistent performance, with one segment gaining momentum while others stalled. The fact that detached homes, townhouses, and apartments are now all experiencing growth simultaneously suggests that underlying market fundamentals are strengthening across the board, rather than isolated pockets of demand driving selective increases.

The detached home segment's performance is particularly noteworthy, as this property type has historically been the most sensitive to economic conditions and interest rate changes. The 13.7% year-over-year increase indicates that higher-priced properties are beginning to attract serious buyers again, many of whom have been waiting on the sidelines for the right combination of pricing stability and favorable financing conditions. This renewed interest in single-family homes suggests that consumer confidence is gradually rebuilding among buyers in higher price brackets.

Despite the uptick in sales activity, prices remained essentially flat. The MLS® Home Price Index composite benchmark sits at $1,099,100, down 6% year-over-year and virtually unchanged from May's $1,100,700. This divergence between rising demand and stable pricing reflects the continued presence of elevated inventory levels—17,017 active listings remain on the market, still 30.2% above the 10-year seasonal average, even as new listings declined 6% compared to June 2025. The market's sales-to-active-listings ratio of 14.6% places Vancouver squarely in balanced territory, where neither buyers nor sellers hold a decisive advantage.

The persistence of elevated inventory levels continues to provide a cushion that prevents rapid price appreciation, even as sales volumes improve. This dynamic creates an interesting equilibrium where buyers have sufficient choice and negotiating power, while sellers who price realistically can still attract qualified purchasers. The 6% decline in new listings year-over-year suggests that some potential sellers are choosing to wait for stronger pricing conditions before entering the market, which could eventually lead to tighter inventory levels if current sales trends continue.

What This Means for Buyers and Sellers

For buyers, June's data suggests that leverage remains, but the window may be narrowing. Inventory is abundant and homes are sitting longer on average—39 days for detached properties, 35 for townhouses—but the fact that all segments are absorbing listings faster than earlier in the year points to a subtle shift in momentum. Well-priced properties in desirable neighborhoods are starting to move more quickly, and the share of detached homes selling above asking has begun to tick upward in certain pockets of the market. Meanwhile, sellers entering the market should recognize that pricing discipline remains essential; overpriced listings continue to languish, while properties that reflect current benchmark values are finding buyers.

The current market conditions create particularly favorable circumstances for first-time buyers and those looking to upsize or downsize. With interest rates stabilized and prices holding steady, monthly carrying costs have become more predictable and manageable compared to the volatile conditions of recent years. Buyers who have been diligently saving and improving their financial positions during the slower market period are now finding themselves in a strong negotiating position, particularly for properties that have been listed for extended periods.

For sellers, understanding the nuances of current pricing dynamics is crucial to achieving a successful transaction. Properties that are priced within 5% of their benchmark values are experiencing notably shorter days on market compared to those with more aggressive asking prices. Additionally, presentation and condition have become increasingly important differentiators—homes that show well, have been properly maintained, and are marketed professionally are commanding premium attention from the active buyer pool. Sellers who work with experienced agents to develop strategic pricing and marketing plans are seeing substantially better results than those attempting to test the market at aspirational price points.

Looking ahead, the Bank of Canada's decision to hold rates at 2.25% in mid-June removes borrowing costs as a constraint, meaning that any further acceleration in activity will likely be driven by consumer confidence and pent-up demand rather than financing conditions. Whether June marks the true inflection point or simply a seasonal anomaly will become clearer in the coming months, but for now, the data indicates that Vancouver's housing market has entered a new phase—one where broad-based demand is starting to test the limits of a buyer-friendly environment.

The stabilization of interest rates represents a psychological turning point as much as a financial one. After years of uncertainty and rapid rate adjustments, the current hold pattern provides both buyers and sellers with the confidence to make long-term housing decisions without fear of immediate market disruptions. This stability is particularly important for move-up buyers who need to coordinate the sale of one property with the purchase of another—a transaction type that requires predictable market conditions to execute successfully.

Regional variations within Metro Vancouver are also worth monitoring closely. While the aggregate data shows broad-based improvement, certain submarkets are experiencing more pronounced shifts than others. Areas with strong transportation infrastructure, proximity to employment centers, and quality schools continue to outperform, while more remote locations or those dependent on specific industries are seeing more measured gains. Understanding these micro-market dynamics will be essential for both buyers and sellers as the market continues to evolve through the remainder of 2026.

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I have sold a property at 1253 Johnston St in Vancouver

I have sold a property at 1253 Johnston St in Vancouver on Nov 24, 2025. See details here

Welcome to 1253 Johnston Street - Your Urban Retreat! Nestled in the heart of the city, this stunning 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom condo offers modern living at its finest. With a spacious layout, panoramic views, and modern kitchen, this home is perfect for those seeking both style and convenience. Located just steps away from downtown Vancouver, you'll enjoy easy access to everything Johnston Street has to offer. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to downsize, this condo provides the perfect blend of comfort and city living. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity! Schedule your private viewing today and make 1253 Johnston Street your new home.

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6 Reasons Why Pet-Friendly Condos Move Quicker in Yaletown

If you’re selling a condo in Yaletown, one of the most effective ways to attract buyers quickly is to highlight that the building is pet-friendly. In neighbourhoods like Yaletown—which blend urban energy with access to outdoor space—the “pet-friendly” attribute isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s a distinct competitive advantage. Here’s why.


1. Strong Demand From Pet-Owners

Many buyers today treat their pet(s) like family members. Especially in high-density urban settings, the ability to bring a dog or cat into a condo becomes a major filter in their search.
In Yaletown, where there are parks, waterfront paths, and lots of walkable amenities, pet-owners are even more drawn to homes that don’t restrict them.

  • Listings and brokers point out that “pet-friendly condos” are a specific search category. homesbylewis.com+1

  • Even short-term rental listings in Yaletown promote “Pet-Friendly” as a key feature. Rent It Furnished

Because of this built-in demand, a condo that allows pets naturally appeals to a larger portion of the market.


2. Yaletown’s Unique Lifestyle Fits Pet-Lovers

Yaletown isn’t just downtown condos and skyline views—it also offers lifestyle amenities that matter to people with pets.

  • For example, neighbourhoods with waterfront walks, easy access to parks, and cafes & shops make it easier for pet-owners to incorporate their pet into everyday life. myvancouverlistings.com+1

  • The walk score, transit access, and outdoor-space access typical in Yaletown add extra value to pet-friendly homes.

In short: pet-owners don’t just need a building that allows pets—they want a neighbourhood where having a pet is easy and enjoyable. Yaletown checks that box.


3. Fewer Listing Barriers & Faster Sales

When a condo allows pets, it eliminates a major objection or exclusion at the buyer-screening stage. Here’s how that accelerates the process:

  • Buyers don’t have to worry about board approval or restrictions around pets, which reduces “will it work?” anxiety.

  • The listing appeals to a broader buyer pool (pet-owners + those without pets who don’t mind).

  • Fewer contingencies: If a buyer with a pet finds your listing attractive, there’s less friction around the move-in decision.

A listing that is explicitly pet-friendly often sells faster because you're removing a hidden barrier that might slow down or eliminate many potential buyers.


4. Marketing Message Plus Emotional Appeal

From a marketing and copywriting perspective, you can turn “pet-friendly” into a storytelling asset that strengthens your position:

  • “Bring your four-legged family member” speaks to emotion and lifestyle.

  • Emphasizing features like nearby parks, dog-friendly cafés, and safe walks adds “why here” to “why this property”.

  • Pet-friendly status adds a sense of inclusivity, warmth and livability—qualities that attract first-time buyers, younger professionals, and even downsizers who still value companionship and an active urban lifestyle.

When you integrate this into your listing description, marketing materials, and showings, it helps build a feel around the condo that resonates beyond just rooms and square footage.


5. Sellers Can Leverage Pet-Friendly Status as a Selling Feature

If you’re advising a seller (or you’re the seller), you can use pet-friendly status strategically:

  • In the listing title: “Pet-Friendly Condo in Yaletown” catches the pet-owner’s eye.

  • In showings: Highlight any pet-friendly building amenities (e.g., dog wash station, pet-relief area, nearby dog park).

  • In staging: Make subtle nods to pet-life (e.g., a clean small pet-bed in a corner, a leash hook near the door) so buyers can imagine their pet in the home.

  • In negotiations: Know that pet-friendly buildings often command slight premium value or faster offers. That allows you to position the property more competitively.


6. Why This Matters More Now

In today’s condo market—especially in places like Yaletown—buyers have more choices and higher expectations. Listings that stand out tend to sell more quickly. Pet-friendly attributes add stand-out value because:

  • Urban buyers value lifestyle as much as location.

  • The rise of remote work and flexible living means people want homes that support whole-life, including pets.

  • Buildings with strong amenity sets + pet policies are differentiated from older low-amenity buildings.


✅ Final Thoughts for Sellers & Buyers

If you’re listing in Yaletown and your condo is pet-friendly, you’re sitting on a compelling selling angle. Use it. Make sure it’s clearly visible in your marketing. Frame your narrative around both the building’s pet-policy and the neighbourhood’s pet-friendly lifestyle.

If you’re looking to buy a pet-friendly condo in Yaletown, click here for listings that are available right now.

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5 Signs It's Time to Trade Your Condo for a Townhouse—And How to Make It Happen

You know that feeling when you step over the stroller for the third time today, stub your toe on a toy bin, and realize your "home office" is literally a corner of the dining table? Yeah. We've all been there.

If you're reading this, chances are your once-perfect condo is starting to feel less like a cozy nest and more like a very expensive storage unit where you occasionally sleep. The good news? You're not alone, and there's a beautiful solution waiting for you in East Vancouver: a townhouse with actual bedrooms, maybe even a yard, and—dare we dream—a door you can close for a Zoom call.

Let's talk about the telltale signs it's time to upsize, and more importantly, how to actually make it happen without losing your mind in the process!

Sign #1: You've Turned Every Nook Into a "Room" (And It's Still Not Enough)

Remember when that den was for storage? Then it became the nursery. Now your partner is working from the dining table while you take calls from the bedroom, and somehow there's still baby gear everywhere.

One Vancouver couple said their 1-bedroom was "getting a little tight with a 6-month-old" after they converted their storage space into a nursery and lost their home office completely. Sound familiar? When you're playing real-life Tetris with furniture and every square foot has three different purposes, that's your first big sign.

The shift from 750 square feet to a townhouse? Families call it "life-changing." And honestly, can you imagine having a dedicated space for work, play, AND sleep? Revolutionary, right?

Sign #2: You're Fantasizing About a Yard (Even a Small One!)

Here's the thing: when you start getting genuinely excited about the idea of your kid playing outside without you having to pack a bag, grab snacks, and trek to the park like it's an expedition... that's a sign.

Townhouses in East Van often come with yards—sometimes small, sometimes surprisingly spacious—but either way, it's yours. No elevator ride required. No forgetting the sunscreen upstairs and having to decide if it's worth the trip back up.

Plus, let's be real: indoor play is great until your energetic toddler starts using your condo walls as a climbing gym. A little outdoor space changes everything for everyone's sanity.

Sign #3: Your Storage Unit Costs Almost as Much as Another Bedroom

If you're paying $100-200 a month for off-site storage because your condo can't handle the seasonal stuff, the hand-me-down furniture, and all those "we might need this someday" items... quick math: that's basically another bedroom's worth of space you're already paying for!

Townhouses typically offer way more storage—actual closets (plural!), possibly a garage, maybe even a basement or crawl space. Imagine actually accessing your winter gear without a 30-minute drive to a storage locker. The dream!

Sign #4: You're Planning Baby #2 (Or Already There)

One kid in a one-bedroom? Doable, if not exactly spacious. Two kids? Now you're entering advanced-level space management. Where does everyone sleep? Where do all the toys go? And when exactly did your living room become entirely Lego-themed?

Many East Vancouver families start looking at townhouses around this exact moment—when the family is growing and the walls are (figuratively) closing in. A 3-bedroom townhouse means kids can eventually have their own rooms, you can maintain some adult space, and you're not constantly negotiating bedtime logistics like a hostage negotiator.

Sign #5: You're Constantly Daydreaming About "Just a Little More Space"

This is the big one. When you catch yourself browsing real estate listings during your lunch break, mentally rearranging townhouse floor plans, or sighing wistfully when you visit friends' places... your heart's already made the decision. Your brain just needs to catch up!

If you're feeling that pull—that "we've outgrown this" feeling mixed with excitement about what's next—trust it. That's not just wanderlust; that's your intuition telling you it's time for the next chapter.


Okay, I'm Convinced! So How Do I Actually Make This Happen?

Alright, here's where we go from dreaming to doing. Let's break this down into totally manageable steps, shall we?

Step 1: Get Your Money Situation Crystal Clear

I know, I know—not the fun part! But stick with me. Get pre-approved for a mortgage NOW, not when you fall in love with a place. You need to know exactly what you can afford at today's interest rates (currently hovering around 5-6%, which is... not what we'd love, but it is what it is).

Here's the reality check: compare your current condo payment to what a townhouse mortgage would look like. A $1.1M townhouse will cost significantly more monthly than your $600K condo—we're talking potentially thousands more when you factor in the mortgage, strata fees ($600-800/month is typical for older East Van complexes), property taxes, and utilities.

Set a walk-away number. This is the maximum you'll pay, no matter how perfect the place seems. Write it down. Tell your partner. Tattoo it on your arm if you have to. This number will save you from 2am regrets.

Step 2: Get Real About Townhouse Life

Quick reality check: townhouses aren't detached homes. You'll still have neighbors. You'll still share walls. You'll still have strata fees and bylaws to follow.

One Vancouver family was genuinely surprised when a neighbor complained their toddler was "outside too much and sings too much" in their yard. Like... that's what yards are for, right? But welcome to strata living! You'll most likely see and hear your neighbors regularly, and they'll definitely know when it's your kid's birthday party.

The good news? Built-in community! Need to borrow an egg? Your neighbor's 10 feet away. Want to organize a block party? Easy. Kids need playmates? Just knock next door.

Go into this with realistic expectations, and you'll be so much happier. Research strata fees, read those bylaws, and make sure the complex vibe fits your family's lifestyle.

Step 3: Time It Right (Or at Least Time It Smart)

Here's the tricky part: selling your condo and buying a townhouse ideally happens in some magical, perfectly coordinated dance. Reality? It's more like organized chaos, but we can work with that!

Your options:

  • Sell with a long closing period so you have time to find and buy your townhouse

  • Make your townhouse offer subject to selling your condo (though in competitive markets, this might not fly)

  • Have bridge financing as your backup plan if the timing doesn't align perfectly

One thing Vancouver families consistently regret? Waiting for the "perfect moment." Interest rates rose, budgets shrunk, and the townhouse they could afford "slipped out of reach." On the flip side, some regret jumping too fast and taking the first offer, only to watch similar units sell for way more.

My advice? If you're ready—truly ready—don't try to time the market perfectly. Work with what's happening now, get good advice, and trust your gut.

Step 4: Hunt Smart in East Van's Tight Market

Let's be honest: East Vancouver doesn't have tons of townhouses sitting around waiting for you. The entire Greater Vancouver region has only about 2,200 active townhome listings at any given time, and East Van gets a small slice of that pie.

This means you need to be ready to move FAST. Quality listings can attract multiple offers within days. Like, you-see-it-Saturday-and-offers-are-Monday fast.

Pro tips:

  • Get pre-approved so you can act decisively when you find "the one"

  • Widen your search to include Hastings-Sunrise, Cedar Cottage, or Renfrew-Collingwood if pickings are slim

  • Look at slightly older units (1980s builds) you could renovate—they often have more space

  • NEVER skip reviewing strata documents or getting an inspection, even if you're desperate

Think of this as a treasure hunt! Every viewing gets you closer to your place. Stay optimistic but flexible—sometimes the neighborhood you weren't initially considering ends up being where you make your best memories.

Step 5: Find Your Real Estate Soulmate (a.k.a. The Right Agent)

Listen, you could technically do this alone. But why would you want to? An experienced East Vancouver realtor who specializes in family upsizing is like having a friend who's already been through this whole process, knows all the shortcuts, and will talk you down when you're about to make an emotional decision at 11pm.

They'll help you navigate bidding wars, review those intimidating strata documents, time everything just right, and avoid the classic fear-based mistakes that lead to regrets.

Ask friends who've recently upsized for referrals. Find someone whose energy matches yours—someone who'll celebrate the wins but also be real with you about red flags. This person is your cheerleader and reality-checker rolled into one!


You've Got This!

Here's what I want you to remember: thousands of Vancouver families have successfully made this exact transition. They went from feeling cramped and overwhelmed to having space to breathe, play, and actually live.

Yes, it's a big deal. Yes, there will be stressful moments (probably involving paperwork at 9pm while your kid refuses to sleep). But in a year, you'll be sipping coffee in your yard, watching your little one play, working from an actual office, and wondering why you didn't do this sooner.

Start today. Have that conversation with your partner. Get pre-approved. Drive through some East Van neighborhoods and see what speaks to you. Take the first step, and the rest will follow.

Here's to more space, more joy, and your next big adventure! You've got this! 🏡✨

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The Hidden Advantage of Buying a Condo Near a Future SkyTrain Station in Vancouver

If you’re house-hunting in Vancouver, there’s one insider tip that savvy buyers already know: follow the SkyTrain map — or better yet, the future one.

Why This Matters

Vancouver’s real estate market is heavily shaped by transit access. Homes within walking distance of a SkyTrain station consistently outperform others in price growth and rental demand.

But what’s even more powerful is buying near a planned SkyTrain station — before the line is built and prices spike.


🚆 Example: The Broadway Subway Extension

ProjectTimelineKey New StationsImpact Zone
Broadway Subway (Millennium Line Extension)Completion expected 2027Great Northern Way, Mount Pleasant, Broadway–City Hall, Oak–VGH, South Granville, ArbutusKitsilano, Fairview, Mount Pleasant

Why it matters:
Condos within a 10-minute walk from these future stations are already seeing subtle increases in interest from investors and first-time buyers anticipating value jumps.


💡 Smart Buyer Tip

If your budget caps around $850,000, consider redirecting your search from over-heated areas like Olympic Village to Mount Pleasant East or Fairview Slopes, where you can still find:

  • 1-bed condos under 700 sq ft

  • Walk scores above 90

  • Upcoming direct SkyTrain access

Pro move: Use City of Vancouver’s development permit search tool to see which pre-sale buildings are closest to these new stops — this can signal early-stage opportunities.


📈 What History Shows

Line OpenedNearby NeighbourhoodAvg. Price Increase (3 Years Post-Launch)*
Evergreen Line (2016)Burquitlam+23%
Canada Line (2009)Marine Gateway+28%

*Based on MLS® HPI data trends from REBGV.


🏁 Key Takeaway

Don’t just buy where the SkyTrain is — buy where it’s going.
By the time the first train rolls in, you’ll already be sitting on built-in equity and unbeatable convenience.

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I have sold a property at 4255 Oak Street in Vancouver

I have sold a property at 4255 Oak Street in Vancouver on May 7, 2025. See details here

Experience timeless elegance in this exquisite home located in Vancouver’s prestigious Shaughnessy neighborhood. Situated on a beautifully manicured lot, this residence features 3 spacious bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and refined architectural details throughout. From the grand foyer to the gourmet kitchen and sun-drenched living spaces, every corner exudes luxury and comfort. Just minutes from top private schools, lush parks, and boutique shopping, this home offers an unparalleled West Side lifestyle in one of the city’s most coveted communities.

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New property listed in Killarney VE, Vancouver East

I have listed a new property at 6835 Lancaster Street in Vancouver. See details here

Located in the vibrant Killarney neighborhood, this charming family home offers comfort, space, and incredible value in one of Vancouver’s most desirable East Side communities. Featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a functional layout, the home boasts a bright kitchen, spacious living areas, and a private backyard—perfect for growing families or investors. Conveniently close to schools, parks, shopping, and transit, this is a fantastic opportunity to own in a quiet, well-established neighborhood.

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