RSS

Just Sold in Burnaby: A Family Home with 40 Years of Memories

Selling a home isn’t just a transaction—it’s a major life transition. For the owners of 8464 15th Avenue, Burnaby, this house represented four decades of cherished moments. From raising a family to forming strong neighborhood bonds, this home was filled with love. But when the time came to downsize and move forward, the right strategy made all the difference.


A Look at the Property: Classic Charm with Future Potential

  • MLS #: R2958088

  • Property Type: Single-Family Home

  • Bedrooms: 3

  • Bathrooms: 1

  • Lot Size: 6,534 sqft

  • Zoning: R1 – Development Potential

  • School Catchment:

    • Armstrong Elementary

    • Cariboo Hill Secondary

This well-maintained home sat on a spacious lot with lane access, making it an excellent opportunity for families or developers looking to invest in Burnaby East.


Overcoming Challenges: A Strategic Approach to Success

Selling a longtime family home comes with emotional and logistical complexities. My role as a real estate expert was to guide the sellers through this process with clarity and care.

Key Strategies That Led to a Successful Sale

Understanding Their Needs: Making sure the transition felt right, not rushed.
Targeted Market Positioning: Highlighting the property’s development potential due to Burnaby’s evolving zoning.
Effective Marketing & Exposure:

  • Drone photography to showcase the lot size and surrounding neighborhood.

  • Custom messaging to appeal to both families and builders/investors.

  • Leveraging my builder network to attract buyers actively searching for redevelopment opportunities.

Skilled Negotiation: Securing an offer that met the seller’s financial and timing needs, ensuring peace of mind.


Why Now Was the Perfect Time to Sell

With Burnaby’s sales-to-active ratio at 14%, the market remains balanced, allowing well-priced properties to sell effectively.
🏡 High buyer interest in homes with redevelopment potential created the perfect conditions for a fast and competitive sale.


Why Buyers Love This Burnaby East Location

Burnaby East offers the best of suburban comfort and urban convenience, making it an attractive choice for families, professionals, and investors alike.

🏞️ Parks & Recreation

  • Robert Burnaby Park – A lush green space with walking trails, a playground, an outdoor pool, and tennis courts.

  • Cariboo Park – A family-friendly park with sports fields and picnic areas.

🏫 Top-Rated Schools

  • Armstrong Elementary – A highly sought-after school with a strong community focus.

  • Cariboo Hill Secondary – Offers French immersion and Advanced Placement (AP) programs.

🛍️ Shopping & Essentials

  • The Crest Shopping Centre – Groceries, pharmacy, and cafés just minutes away.

  • Lougheed Town Centre – A major retail hub with shopping, dining, and transit access.

With easy access to Highway 1, this neighborhood provides quick commutes across Metro Vancouver.


A Meaningful Milestone for the Sellers

After 40 years in their beloved home, my clients were ready for a fresh start. While the decision wasn’t easy, they felt supported every step of the way—from preparing their home for market to securing the right offer. Their excitement for the next chapter was truly rewarding to witness.


Thinking of Selling? Let’s Make Your Next Move a Success

🏡 Whether you’re downsizing, upgrading, or selling an investment property, a proven marketing strategy is key to getting top results.

📩 Contact us today to learn how we can help you achieve your real estate goals!


Read

Just Sold: Charming Condo in Uptown New Westminster – A Perfect Fit for a Special Buyer

Finding the right home is about more than just square footage—it’s about lifestyle, location, and long-term value. When a former school teacher reached out for help securing their ideal space, we set out to find a home that aligned with their needs and future plans. After careful searching and strategic negotiation, we landed the perfect 2-bedroom condo in Uptown New Westminster, securing favorable terms in a competitive market.


Property Details: A Cozy & Convenient Home in Uptown New Westminster

  • MLS #: R2958409

  • Property Type: Condo

  • Bedrooms: 2

  • Bathrooms: 1

  • School Catchment:

    • Elementary: Lord Kelvin

    • Middle: Fraser River

    • Secondary: New Westminster

  • Sales-to-Active Ratio: 19.10% (A strong market for sellers!)

This well-maintained condo offered the perfect mix of walkability, transit access, and community amenities, making it an excellent choice for a buyer looking to stay connected to their favorite local spots.


Overcoming Challenges: Finding the Right Home in an Older Building

This sale wasn’t just about finding a great home—it was about making sure the investment made sense. Since the condo was in an older building, we took extra steps to ensure financial security for the buyer.

Thorough Financial & Maintenance Assessment

  • Reviewed the building’s strata documents for any upcoming maintenance projects.

  • Evaluated the contingency reserve fund to confirm long-term financial stability.

  • Consulted with specialists to understand potential future costs.

Negotiation Strategy That Delivered Results

  • Ensured the offer reflected both current value and future considerations.

  • Secured favorable terms, giving the buyer peace of mind for their investment.


Why Uptown New Westminster? A Community with Everything You Need

Uptown New Westminster is a vibrant, walkable neighborhood offering a mix of historic charm and modern conveniences. Residents love the area for its small-town feel with big-city access.

🏞️ Parks & Outdoor Spaces

  • Moody Park – A beautiful green space with walking trails, playgrounds, a pool, and sports courts.

  • Queen’s Park – Home to gardens, an off-leash dog area, and seasonal festivals.

🏫 Top Schools in the Area

  • Lord Kelvin Elementary – A community-focused elementary school known for strong academics.

  • Fraser River Middle School – Offers a diverse range of programs and extracurricular activities.

  • New Westminster Secondary – One of the largest high schools in British Columbia, with specialized programs.

🛍️ Shopping & Local Conveniences

  • Royal City Centre – Featuring grocery stores, pharmacies, and essential services.

  • Columbia Street Shops & Cafés – A mix of boutique stores, coffee shops, and restaurants.

  • Transit Access – SkyTrain and major bus routes offer quick connections to Burnaby and Downtown Vancouver.


A Meaningful Home Purchase for a Special Client

For my former teacher, this wasn’t just about buying a condo—it was about finding a space that felt like home. The process required careful research, smart negotiation, and a deep understanding of market trends, and I’m thrilled that we found the perfect fit.


Thinking of Buying or Selling? Let’s Make It Happen!

🏡 Whether you’re looking for a new home or ready to sell, the right strategy makes all the difference.

📩 Contact us today to learn how we can help you achieve your real estate goals!

Read

How New U.S. Tariffs Could Impact Metro Vancouver Real Estate: What You Need to Know

Introduction

The recent announcement of new U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods has sparked concern across various industries, including real estate. As homeowners, buyers, and sellers in Metro Vancouver, it's natural to wonder: How will these tariffs impact housing prices, mortgage rates, and the overall market? While tariffs may not directly affect real estate transactions, their economic ripple effects can influence everything from construction costs to consumer confidence.

In this article, we break down what tariffs are, why they are being imposed, how they could affect the Canadian economy, and—most importantly—what this means for the Metro Vancouver real estate market. Whether you're planning to buy, sell, or simply stay informed, this guide will help you understand the potential impacts and what to watch for in the months ahead.

What Are Tariffs, and Why Are They Imposed?

Q: What exactly is a tariff?
A tariff is a tax or duty imposed on goods imported from another country. It is typically charged as a percentage of the product's value and paid by importers when the goods arrive at customs. Governments use tariffs for various reasons, including raising revenue, protecting domestic industries, and influencing foreign trade policies.

Q: Why has the U.S. imposed new tariffs on Canada?
The U.S. government, under President Trump, recently announced a new round of tariffs on imports from Canada and other nations. These tariffs are being positioned as a means to protect American industries, reduce trade deficits, and address what the U.S. administration sees as unfair trade practices. However, tariffs often lead to retaliatory actions, and the Canadian government has responded with its own countermeasures.

What Tariffs Are Being Imposed and How Might They Affect Canada?

Q: Which Canadian goods are affected?
The latest round of U.S. tariffs includes a 25% tax on most imports from Canada and 10% on energy exports. Key affected sectors include steel, aluminum, automobiles, machinery, wood products, and consumer goods.

Q: How is Canada responding?
In retaliation, Canada has imposed 25% tariffs on $155 billion worth of U.S. goods, targeting items like vehicles, steel, aluminum, beef, pork, and dairy, as well as consumer goods like cosmetics, paper products, and appliances.

Could These Tariffs Impact the Housing and Mortgage Markets?

Q: Will these tariffs directly impact real estate prices?
Not directly, but the effects of tariffs can ripple through the economy in ways that influence housing. One of the most immediate concerns is consumer sentiment—when people feel uncertain about the economy, they may delay large financial decisions like purchasing a home. If buyers expect home prices to decline or are concerned about job stability, demand could slow, even if actual costs remain unchanged in the short term.

Q: Could this lead to higher home prices?
Eventually, yes. While the impact on construction costs may take time to materialize, developers could pass higher costs for materials onto buyers. For example, if materials for condo developments in Burnaby or Vancouver’s downtown core become more expensive, developers may either raise prices or delay projects, worsening housing supply issues. However, the more immediate effect may be a slowdown in buyer activity due to uncertainty.

Q: How might this affect the resale housing market?
Economic uncertainty can lead to reduced buyer confidence, causing some prospective buyers to hold off on making a purchase. If demand slows, resale prices may stagnate or decline, at least in the short term. However, if new housing supply is constrained due to increased costs and delayed construction, resale properties could see a relative increase in demand over time.

Could Tariffs Affect Mortgage Rates and Financing?

Q: Will tariffs impact interest rates in Canada?
Possibly. If tariffs drive up the cost of goods, inflation may rise. The Bank of Canada could be forced to rethink its rate-cut strategy, delaying or even reversing expected reductions in borrowing costs. If rates remain high or increase, mortgage affordability could be squeezed, making homebuying less accessible.

Q: Could this impact the availability of mortgage financing?
Potentially. If economic uncertainty grows, lenders may become more cautious, tightening borrowing conditions. This could mean stricter approval requirements or higher rates for variable-rate mortgages.

Are There Any Historical Comparisons?

Q: Has Canada’s real estate market been affected by tariffs before?
Yes. One notable example is the softwood lumber dispute, which saw U.S. tariffs on Canadian wood drive up construction costs and home prices. Historically, trade wars have created short-term economic shocks and long-term shifts in investment strategies.

Q: Are there global examples of tariffs causing economic downturns?
Yes. The Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act of 1930 worsened the Great Depression by triggering retaliatory tariffs and collapsing global trade. Another example is the Chicken Tax, a tariff imposed by the U.S. in the 1960s on European light trucks, which reshaped the automotive industry and trade dynamics for decades.

What Should Homeowners and Buyers Expect Going Forward?

Q: Should homeowners or buyers be worried?
It depends on how long these tariffs last and whether they escalate. Short-term effects may include higher renovation costs and delays in new housing supply. If tariffs trigger inflation and rate hikes, borrowing costs may rise, impacting home affordability. However, if economic conditions weaken significantly, the Bank of Canada might cut rates to stimulate demand, creating opportunities for buyers.

Q: Could this lead to a buyer’s or seller’s market?
If confidence declines and borrowing remains expensive, demand for homes could soften, leading to a more balanced or even buyer-friendly market in some areas. However, if inflationary pressures keep costs high and new housing supply shrinks, sellers may maintain leverage, particularly in high-demand urban areas.

Final Thoughts: What Should Homeowners Do?

While it’s still early to predict the full effects of these tariffs, it’s essential to stay informed. If you’re considering buying or selling, understanding how economic changes influence home prices, interest rates, and mortgage availability is key.

Have questions about how this could affect your property or future real estate plans? Let’s chat. Reach out anytime for expert insights and personalized advice.


Read
Categories:   Burnaby South Townhouse | New Westminster Condo | New Westminster Condo Sold | New Westminster House | Vancouver East Realtor | Vancouver West Condo | Aldergrove Langley Real Estate | Aldergrove Langley, Langley Real Estate | BCFSA | Burnaby | Burnaby East | Burnaby East Condo | Burnaby East Condo Sold | Burnaby East House | Burnaby East House Sold | Burnaby East Open House | Burnaby East Realtor | Burnaby Lake, Burnaby South Real Estate | Burnaby North | Burnaby North Condo | Burnaby North Condo Sold | Burnaby North House | Burnaby North House Sold | Burnaby North Realtor | Burnaby North Townhouse | Burnaby North Townhouse Sold | Burnaby Real Estate | Burnaby Real Estate Forecast | Burnaby Real Estate Market | Burnaby Real Estate News | Burnaby Real Estate Prices | Burnaby South | Burnaby South Condo | Burnaby South Condo Sold | Burnaby South House | Burnaby South House Sold | Burnaby South Realtor | Burnaby South Townhouse | Burnaby South Townhouse Sold | Cambie, Vancouver West Real Estate | Central Coquitlam Real Estate | Central Coquitlam, Coquitlam Real Estate | Central Pt Coquitlam Real Estate | Central Pt Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam Real Estate | Champlain Heights, Vancouver East Real Estate | Cloverdale House | Cloverdale House Sold | Cloverdale Realtor | Collingwood VE Real Estate | Connaught Heights, New Westminster Real Estate | Coquitlam 12 Duplex | Coquitlam 12 Duplex Sold | Coquitlam Condo | Coquitlam Condo Sold | Coquitlam House | Coquitlam House Sold | Coquitlam Real Estate | Coquitlam Realtor | Coquitlam Townhouse | Coquitlam Townhouse Sold | Downtown NW, New Westminster Real Estate | Downtown SQ Condo | Downtown SQ Condo Sold | Downtown SQ Real Estate | Downtown SQ Realtor | Downtown VW, Vancouver West Real Estate | Eagle Ridge CQ, Coquitlam Real Estate | East Burnaby, Burnaby East Real Estate | East Vancouver | Fairview VW Real Estate | False Creek, Vancouver West Real Estate | Federal Election | Fraserview NW, New Westminster Real Estate | Gibsons Real Estate | GlenBrooke North Real Estate | GlenBrooke North, New Westminster Real Estate | Government | Government Road, Burnaby North Real Estate | Hastings, Vancouver East Real Estate | Home Buyer | Home Maintenance | Home Seller | Interest Rates | Kitsilano, Vancouver West Real Estate | Langley Condo | Langley Condo Sold | Langley Realtor | Langley Townhouse | Langley Townhouse Sold | Legal | Lower Mary Hill, Port Coquitlam Real Estate | Maillardville, Coquitlam Real Estate | Market Update | Metrotown Real Estate | Moody Park, New Westminster Real Estate | Mortgage | Mount Pleasant VE, Vancouver East Real Estate | New Horizons, Coquitlam Real Estate | New West | New West Realtor | New West Townhouse | New West Townhouse Sold | New Westminster | New Westminster Condo | New Westminster Condo Sold | New Westminster House | New Westminster House Sold | New Westminster Real Estate | New Westminster Realtor | New Westminster Townhouse | New Westminster Townhouse Sold | North Shore Pt Moody Real Estate | North Surrey House | North Surrey House Sold | North Surrey Realtor | North Vancouver | North Vancouver House | North Vancouver House Sold | North Vancouver Real Estate | North Vancouver Realtor | Parkcrest, Burnaby North Real Estate | Port Coquitlam Condo | Port Coquitlam Condo Sold | Port Coquitlam House | Port Coquitlam House Sold | Port Coquitlam Real Estate | Port Coquitlam Realtor | Port Moody Centre, Port Moody Real Estate | Port Moody Condo | Port Moody Condo Sold | Port Moody Home Sold | Port Moody House | Port Moody House Sold | Port Moody Real Estate | Port Moody Realtor | Port Moody Townhouse | Port Moody Townhouse Sold | Quay, New Westminster Real Estate | Queens Park, New Westminster Real Estate | Queensborough, New Westminster Real Estate | Real Estate Agents in Burnaby | Real Estate Market in Burnaby BC | Regulation | Richmond | Richmond Condo | Richmond Condo Sold | Richmond Real Estate | Richmond Realtor | Sapperton, New Westminster Real Estate | Shaughnessy, Vancouver West Real Estate | South Cambie, Vancouver West Real Estate | South Surrey White Rock Realtor | South Surrey White Rock Townhouse | South Surrey White Rock Townhouse Sold | Squamish Condo | Squamish Condo Sold | Squamish Realtor | Sullivan Station, Surrey Real Estate | Sunnyside Park Surrey, South Surrey White Rock Real Estate | Sunshine Coast | Sunshine Coast House | Sunshine Coast House Sold | Sunshine Coast Realtor | Surrey | Surrey House | Surrey House Sold | Surrey Real Estate | Surrey Realtor | Surrey Townhouse | Surrey Townhouse Sold | Tax | The Heights NW, New Westminster Real Estate | Tri-Cities | Uptown NW, New Westminster Real Estate | Vancouver | Vancouver East Condo | Vancouver East Condo Sold | Vancouver East House | Vancouver East House Sold | Vancouver East Realtor | Vancouver East Townhouse | Vancouver East Townhouse Sold | Vancouver Heights, Burnaby North Real Estate | Vancouver Real Estate | Vancouver West Condo | Vancouver West Condo Sold | Vancouver West House | Vancouver West House Sold | Vancouver West Realtor | Vancouver West Townhouse | Vancouver West Townhouse Sold | Walnut Grove, Langley Real Estate | West End NW, New Westminster Real Estate | West End VW, Vancouver West Real Estate | West Vancouver | Willingdon Heights, Burnaby North Real Estate | Yaletown, Vancouver West Real Estate