If you're in the market for a strata property in British Columbia, you'll want to be aware of some important changes coming to strata regulations, particularly around depreciation reports. These changes are designed to improve the long-term maintenance and financial planning of strata buildings, making it crucial for homebuyers like you to stay informed. Let’s…

In a significant move towards urban development, Vancouver City Council has voted to update and, in some cases, remove certain "view cones"—policies that have long limited building heights to protect the city's renowned mountain and ocean views. This decision marks a shift in how Vancouver balances its scenic beauty with the growing demand for housing,…

In a bid to strike a balance between the needs of first-time homebuyers and tenant rights, the Province of British Columbia has announced a significant amendment to the Residential Tenancy Regulation. As of August 21, 2024, the personal use-notice period for home purchasers in B.C. will be reduced to three months, down from the previously…

On July 3, 2024, the Provincial Government announced significant amendments to the Residential Tenancy Act, set to take effect on July 18, 2024. These changes are designed to protect residential tenants from unjust tenancy terminations and have considerable implications for both buyers and sellers of tenant-occupied properties. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate…

This week, Vancouver City Council will consider a proposal aimed at increasing the availability of affordable housing by expanding the use of housing co-operatives. As Vancouver renters continue to face the highest rental prices in the country, Councillor Sarah Kirby-Yung sees co-ops as a promising solution to address the city's housing crisis. The Appeal of…

In a move praised by advocates, the federal government announced significant changes to mortgage rules aimed at making homeownership more affordable for Canadians. Speaking in Toronto, Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland revealed that starting August 1, the government will allow 30-year amortization periods on insured mortgages for first-time homebuyers purchasing newly built homes. This is a…

The Greater Vancouver real estate market showed signs of modest recovery in April, with the number of homes sold rising by 3.3% compared to the same period last year. Despite this uptick, total sales remained significantly below the 10-year average for April, indicating a market that is still finding its footing. In April, the Greater…

Enhancing Housing Affordability in British Columbia: A Closer Look at the 2024 Budget Initiatives In an ambitious move to address the growing concerns over housing affordability, the British Columbia (BC) government has unveiled key initiatives in its 2024 budget that promise to reshape the housing market landscape. Amidst these initiatives, two critical changes stand out:…

In British Columbia, the introduction of the BC Home Flipping Tax marks a significant step in addressing concerns surrounding the rapid turnover of residential properties. This new tax imposes a 20% levy on profits from the sale of a home within one year of purchase, with a graduated rate applying to sales made within two…