When you and one or more other people buy a property in British Columbia (or co-own one), you have to choose how you hold title. Two common forms are Joint Tenancy and Tenancy in Common. While they might outwardly look similar (you co-own the property), the legal and financial consequences can differ substantially — both […]
When you renovate your home, whether as a homeowner or with a contractor, one of the foundational questions is: “Do I need a building permit (or other permits)?” The short answer: typically yes — especially for work that affects structure, plumbing, electrical, or zoning. The permit process isn’t just bureaucratic red-tape; it plays a key […]
If you’re house hunting or listing in Greater Vancouver or the Fraser Valley, you’ve probably heard murmurs about “peat bog land,” “soft soils,” or properties that “settle over time.” These aren’t just quirks — they can materially change both cost and valuation, from both buyer and seller perspectives. In my experience, it’s one of those […]
When people invoke memories of the 2008 housing meltdown, it’s understandable—markets today show signs of stress: high interest rates, affordability pinch, and weaker sales. But when you compare Canada (and specifically BC) then versus now, the differences are stark. Here’s how the current real estate environment diverges from the collapse era of the late 2000s.What […]
When it comes to investing in your home, you’re often faced with the classic dilemma: Should you allocate your funds toward visually appealing upgrades that spruce up your living space—like fresh paint, stylish fixtures, or landscaping—or prioritize the less visible but vital investments such as updating an electrical panel, replacing aging pipes, or installing a […]
Radon is an invisible, odorless, naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms when uranium in soil and rock breaks down. In parts of British Columbia (BC), radon can seep through cracks in building foundations, crawlspaces, or gaps around pipes—entering homes and accumulating to dangerous concentrations. Long-term exposure to elevated radon levels is the second leading cause […]
Cannabis is legal in Canada, but a home’s history as a “grow op” can still raise concerns. Even if cultivation happened years ago, and even if the property has been renovated since, that history can affect safety, financing, insurance, and resale value.Cannabis Grow Ops Era in BC HomesBefore legalization in 2018, BC had a significant […]
For many homebuyers, oil tanks aren’t the first thing that comes to mind when touring a property. Yet for certain homes — especially older ones in British Columbia — understanding the history, risks, and legal implications can save you from costly surprises.A Common Source – Oil Heating in Local HomesIn the early 20th century, coal […]
In August 2016, the British Columbia government made headlines by implementing a 15% tax on foreign nationals purchasing residential real estate in Metro Vancouver. This move, known as the Foreign Buyer Tax, was introduced swiftly in response to skyrocketing home prices, widespread public frustration, and growing political pressure to “do something” about housing affordability.At first […]
