Thinking about purchasing a new place to call home but not sure what you're looking for? Buying a condo may be the right decision for you. 



Read below to find out why!

Maintenance

Buying a house is an expensive feat in itself, not to mention the maintenance and upkeep that you are solely responsible for, and not only are we talking about the financial maintenance, mowing lawns, trimming the garden and maintaining the leaves can all take up lots of time. When you buy into a condo, these tedious tasks are often outsourced and handled by a strata board. The monthly strata fees build a reserve which is great for when unexpected fees arise such as needing a new roof.

Cost

When looking at the price of a condo vs a townhouse or detached house, the price per square foot is often much less, making buying a condo a great idea for those who are still seeking space but don’t want the inflated price tag. Buying a condo is also a great idea for those who are wishing to downsize from their detached homes, leaving you with lots of extra cash for your retirement fund. 

Community

Moving into a new neighbourhood can be an overwhelming experience, and many new homeowners have a hard time getting to know their neighbours and community. This is not an issue in apartment complexes. Being close to neighbours offers an instant sense of community and safety. 

Investment

If you are thinking of ways to invest, the North Vancouver real estate market is a great space to get into. The population of Vancouver continues to soar, and as such rental suites are a safe investment. 

If buying a condo feels like it may be the right decision for you, get in contact with me! Currently, there is a large variety of condos on the market in the Greater Vancouver area. Whatever you are looking for, right now is your best chance to find it. 

Information for this blog was sourced from For Sale Guides.

I just sold this Condo at 310 1633 Tatlow Avenue, Pemberton, North Vancouver, BC Pemberton.

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BRAND NEW + NO GST! This brand new, never lived in stunning condo is located in the best the beautiful North Shore as to offer. So close to the planned Lower Capilano Marine Village Centre. This boutique building of 33 brand new homes, offers you the convenience of this ideal Marine Drive location plus brand new quality construction. 2 beds + 2 full baths, high ceilings, wood laminate floor, fireplace, high end s/s appliances and luxury finishes throughout. Bright natural light plus generous views of Downtown Vancouver. Just minutes to Park Royal Shopping Centre, Ambleside Beach, Lion's Gate Bridge & Downtown Vancouver. Once the new village centre is complete your value here will skyrocket! Call today, so easy to show. You don't want to miss this one. GST PAID ON THIS BRAND NEW SUITE.

Check out all of the details of this Apartment/Condo for sale, 311 1633 TATLOW AVENUE, Pemberton NV, North Vancouver, BC

 

I just sold this Apartment/Condo at 903 160 W KEITH ROAD North Vancouver, Central Lonsdale, North Vancouver, BC Central Lonsdale.

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When you think of historical buildings and architecture you may not necessarily think of Vancouver. Our beautiful city usually gets all its praise from the breathtaking views, beautiful seasons, and outdoor activities. However, what many aren’t aware of are the timeless historical buildings that are scattered throughout our wonderful city - both used for residental and commercial purposes.

Check out these gorgeous buildings and their historical stories. 

Aberdeen Block

Photo Courtesy: Real Estate North Shore


Photo Courtesy: Clive Steve Paul

The Aberdeen Block is a three-storey Edwardian era brick and sandstone building, located in the commercial district of Lower Lonsdale. The historic place is confined to the footprint of the building. As Canada's Historic Places explains, the heritage value of the Aberdeen Block is associated with its location in Lower Lonsdale, the commercial core of North Vancouver, and the earliest, most historic area of commercial buildings on the North Shore of Burrard Inlet. Lower Lonsdale grew explosively from the turn of the twentieth century until the general financial depression in 1913 halted the ambitious construction of the previous years. The streetcar, ferry to Vancouver and the Pacific Great Eastern railway converged at the south foot of Lonsdale Avenue, the major transportation hub on the North Shore. The area represents a formative period in B.C.'s economy, driven at the time by major industries including logging and shipbuilding.

The Orpheum theatre

Image courtesy of  Vancouver Is Awesome 

The Orpheum Theatre was built in 1927, and underwent a renovation in 1970 and was later recognized as a national historic site. The building as it stands today is home to the Vancouver Orchestra and is one of the most sought after venues for musicians, musicals, and theatrical events.  

Broch House

Image courtesy of Wedding Wire

Located on a stunning waterfront property, Brock House was built as a private residence in 1912. It was later sold to the Federal Government who used it as RCMP quarters. It is now home to a prestigious restaurant, which has become one of Vancouver’s most sought after wedding destinations, with its guests coming from around the globe. Information gathered from Brock House Restaurant . 

Christ Church Cathedral 

Image courtesy of earlymusic

Christ Church Cathedral is the oldest surviving building in Downtown Vancouver, with the building commencing in 1889. It is listed as a Class A heritage building in the city of Vancouver. Today the church is visited by both locals and tourists and is a place for all people to gather for sermons. Information gathered from the Cathedral.

Heritage Hall

Image courtesy of Heritage Hall

Although there are many theories as to what purpose Heritage Hall was build for, from city hall, to church, and even a castle, one thing is for sure - this ornate building is stunning. The structure was build in 1915 and was later used as a Postal office. It was deemed a heritage structure by the city of Vancouver in 1974 and has since been used as a venue for weddings, galas, and non-profit organization events. 

Information provided by Heritage Hall.

Take some time to stroll by the historical sites of our beautiful city this weekend!

Are you looking for a way to keep active over the colder months?



Hiking is a great way to keep active, safely socialize with friends, and explore some of the beautiful areas in which we live. If you’re interested in exploring some of the North Shore mountains, read below for my favourite hikes, tips, and equipment.

If you are looking for a hike that is dog friendly and ends with a breathtaking waterfall then I recommend checking out Norvan Falls. This hike is rated for intermediate hikers and has a rough duration of 5 hours there and back so be sure to pack lunch and lots of water! 

Dog Mountain is another great North Shore hike. During the colder months this snowy wonderland is filled with snowshoers, and people of all ages and hiking abilities. This easy hike can be done in two hours and offers some of the best views of the surrounding mountains, Howe sound and Vancouver City skyline. As the name suggests, this trail is a favourite for those wanting to give their furry friends an adventure.  

Cypress mountain is home to some of the most picturesque hiking in Vancouver, my favourite hike on Cypress is Bowen Lookout. I love this one because it can be done year-round, with the addition of some winter gear. It can also be completed in an hour and a half making it the perfect way to start your morning, or end your day. If you're interested in doing this hike through the Winter months, be sure to visit the Black Mountain Lodge on Cypress mountain to register your hike and receive a free BAC tag that is required to hike on cypress.

If you are looking for an easy stroll through a mostly built path, my suggestion is visiting Twin Falls in Lynn Canyon. This walk is great to decompress after a long day or to catch up with friends during relaxing stroll. Please be aware that the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge is currently closed, however, that doesn’t mean you can’t still access this beautiful walk. You can access Twin Falls from a trailhead that is located just below the Ecological Centre. Check out the map on trails here! 

Hiking is a great way to get in touch with nature and relax, however it is extremely important to ensure that you have the proper equipment and information before taking off on your adventure. If you are hiking during colder months, always check to see what the conditions are in the area, including Avalanch conditions. This will also help you identify what type of equipment you will need on your hike.

Here are some things you should always carry on any Winter hike:

Ice cleats or spikes are a great investment if you plan on hiking during the icy weather, they pack small so they're a great idea to have in your backpack at all times. 

Snowshoes are necessary for most Winter hikes on the North Shore.  

A Headlamp is one of the most important things to pack on any hike, especially during the darker months where the sun goes down early. 

Trail Maps are a great backup if you happen to lose sight of the trail you are following. This North Shore Trail Map is great as it includes every hike and trail on the North Shore.  

Extra Layers are essential when hiking. The North Shore is notorious for the weather changing on a dime, so it's important to be prepared for all the elements! 

Water and food are a no-brainer but ensuring you pack enough is crucial in the case of an emergency. Pack foods such as granola bars, nuts, dried fruits, and canned tuna, especially on more challenging hikes. It’s also very important to ensure you have enough water to last if necessary.

Lastly, it is so important to tell friends or family members where you're planning on hiking to and what time they should expect you to be done or to hear from you. Always make sure someone is aware of your plans in the case of an emergency. I hope you enjoy the beautiful North Shore mountains as much as I do! 

I just sold this Apartment/Condo at 29 5988 HASTINGS STREET, Capitol Hill BN, Burnaby North, BC Capitol Hill BN.

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