If you own a home in Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, or Port Moody, you’ve likely received your property tax notice and may be wondering what the different totals mean, whether you're eligible for a grant, or how to avoid late penalties.

This comprehensive guide covers:

• What your tax bill includes

• Who qualifies for the Home Owner Grant

• How to apply (and when!)

• Pre-authorized monthly payment options

• Differences across the Tri-Cities and Metro Vancouver

🧾 What Do Your Property Taxes Pay For?

Your property taxes fund key local services such as:

• Public schools

• Police and fire protection

• Waste collection and water services

• Parks, recreation, and libraries

• Road and infrastructure maintenance

Each municipality calculates their portion, and your bill may also include levies for TransLink, Metro Vancouver, and BC Assessment.

💡 Breaking Down Your Tax Notice

Your bill typically shows three total amounts:

1. No Grant (Full Amount): What you pay if you don’t apply for a grant

2. Basic Grant Applied: Amount after the standard Home Owner Grant

3. Additional Grant Applied: Amount after the senior or disability grant

Important: Grants are not applied automatically. You must apply each year, even if you've received them before.

✅ Home Owner Grants: Who Can Apply?

Basic Home Owner Grant

Reduces your taxes by up to $570
To qualify, you must:

• Live in the home as your principal residence

• Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident

• Have a property with an assessed value under $2.15 million (2024 threshold)

Additional Grant (Seniors, Disability, Veterans)

Reduces your taxes by up to $845
You may qualify if you:

• Are 65 or older

• Have a disability or receive disability assistance

• Are a veteran or surviving spouse receiving federal benefits

📝 How to Apply for the Home Owner Grant

You now apply directly through the BC government, not your local city.

🔗 Apply online: gov.bc.ca/homeownergrant

You’ll need:

• Your jurisdiction number and roll number (from your tax notice)

• Your SIN (if applying for the additional grant)

📞 Prefer to call? Reach out to BC Grant Services: 1-888-355-2700

🗓️ Property Tax Due Date: July 2, 2025

Across the Tri-Cities, property taxes are due by July 2, 2025.
This includes:

• Coquitlam

• Port Coquitlam

• Port Moody

⚠️ A penalty (usually 5%) will be applied to any unpaid amount after the due date — including if you forget to apply for the Home Owner Grant.

💳 Monthly Payment Options to Simplify Budgeting

Looking to avoid a large lump-sum payment in July? Consider enrolling in your local municipality’s Pre-Authorized Payment Plan. This allows you to spread your property tax bill into monthly installments, making it easier to manage your household budget throughout the year.

Explore the programs available in your community:

• Port Coquitlam: Port Coquitlam Pre-Authorized Plan

• Coquitlam: Coquitlam Monthly Payment Program

• Port Moody: Port Moody Property Tax Pre-Authorized Payment

These plans are an excellent option for homeowners who prefer consistent monthly payments over an annual lump sum.

🧓 What About Tax Deferment?

If you are:

• 55+

• A surviving spouse

• A person with a disability

…you may qualify to defer your property taxes through the BC Property Tax Deferment Program.

🔗 Learn more: gov.bc.ca/propertytaxdeferment

🌍 Is It the Same in Metro Vancouver?

Yes — although rates and penalties vary slightly, the Home Owner Grant, tax deferment, and pre-authorized monthly payment options apply across the entire Metro Vancouver region, including:

• Burnaby

• Surrey

• Vancouver

• New Westminster

• Richmond
  …and others.

Always check your city’s website for exact local rates, due dates, and payment options.

👋 Have Questions?

Whether you're a first-time homeowner or a long-time resident, navigating property taxes can be confusing. If you’d like help reviewing your tax notice or applying for grants, I’m just a call or message away.

📌 Quick Recap

✔️ Check your bill for grant eligibility
✔️ Apply for the grant before July 2
✔️ Consider monthly payment plans or deferment if eligible
✔️ Don’t risk late penalties

✨ Tara Kennedy

🏡 REALTOR®, ABR, RENE, SRS
📞 236-992-8989
🌐 TaraKennedy.ca
📧 TaraKennedySells@gmail.com

#TriCitiesRealEstate #MetroVancouverHomes #PropertyTaxTips #HomeOwnerGrantBC
#PortCoquitlamRealEstate #CoquitlamLiving #PortMoodyHomes #BCRealtor #HomeOwnerHelp
#BCPropertyTax #TaxDeadlinesBC #RealEstateTipsCanada #RealEstateTaxes #TaraKennedy #TaraKennedyRealtor #RoyalLePageEliteWest #PropertyTaxHelp #TaxDefermentBC #BCGrants #UnderstandingTaxes #PayPropertyTaxOnline

A recent BC Court of Appeal decision — Sewell v Abadian, 2025 BCCA 158 — is sending ripples through the real estate community and could significantly impact how Property Disclosure Statements (PDS) are used and interpreted in property transactions across the province.

🔍 The Case in Brief:

In this case, the seller crossed out every question in the standard PDS form and included only one note:
“Tenanted Property, Owner has never occupied.”

The buyer submitted a subject-free offer, which was accepted. Later, she discovered that the family room had been enclosed without a permit and attempted to walk away from the deal, claiming the PDS was misleading.

At issue: Can a crossed-out PDS still be considered a misrepresentation if the seller has knowledge of a problem and doesn't disclose it?

✅ The Court of Appeal’s Ruling:

Yes.
The Court concluded that even a fully crossed-out PDS can constitute a misrepresentation if the seller knew about issues — such as unpermitted work — and failed to disclose them.

This marks a significant shift from previous understandings where crossing out the PDS was considered a neutral or protective action, especially for:

• Tenanted properties

• Estate sales

• Situations where sellers had limited knowledge of the home

⚖️ Why This Matters for Sellers and Buyers:

This decision challenges common industry practices and could change the way risk is handled in transactions going forward.

📌 Takeaway for Sellers:

If you wish to avoid making any statements or representations about the condition of a property, the best approach may now be to avoid providing a PDS at all. Simply crossing out the standard items and adding a general comment may no longer protect you legally — especially if you are aware of any defects, unpermitted work, or material facts.

📌 Takeaway for Buyers:

Making a subject-free offer is a high-risk move, especially when minimal information is provided. This ruling highlights the need for:

• Thorough due diligence

• Professional inspections

• Asking the right questions — even when disclosure appears limited

Buyers should be cautious and strategic when considering offers without contingencies.

🧭 Navigating Forward:

The Sewell v Abadian decision is likely to influence how contracts are drafted, how disclosure is approached, and how real estate professionals advise their clients.

If you’re navigating a real estate transaction — as a buyer or a seller — it’s more important than ever to have the right advice and representation.

📞 Questions about how this affects you?
Let’s talk. I’m here to guide you confidently through the changing legal landscape of BC real estate.

✨ Tara Kennedy
🏡 REALTOR®, ABR, RENE, SRS
📞 236-992-8989
🌐 TaraKennedy.ca
📧 TaraKennedySells@gmail.com

#BCRealEstate #BCLawUpdate #SewellvAbadian #DisclosureMatters #PropertyDisclosure #SubjectFreeOffer #TenantedProperties #RealEstateTips #TaraKennedyRealtor

Every year, Canadians across the country enjoy a long weekend in May known as Victoria Day. But beyond the extra day off and the unofficial kickoff to summer, Victoria Day holds historical significance that’s deeply woven into Canada’s identity.

🌸 What Is Victoria Day?

Victoria Day is a Canadian statutory holiday celebrated in honour of Queen Victoria’s birthday, who was born on May 24, 1819. It’s one of the oldest holidays in Canada that’s not tied to religion. The first official recognition of the day came in 1845, during Queen Victoria’s reign. After her death in 1901, it was declared a legal holiday in Canada.

Since 1952, the holiday has been observed on the Monday before May 25, which means the actual date varies from year to year. In 2025, Victoria Day falls on Monday, May 19.

👑 Why Queen Victoria?

Queen Victoria played a key role in shaping Canada's identity. Under her reign, Canada officially became a self-governing dominion of the British Empire with the passage of the British North America Act in 1867. She was widely respected and beloved by the Canadian people during her lifetime, and her legacy continues to be honored to this day.

Victoria Day not only celebrates her birth but also serves as the official birthday of the reigning Canadian monarch, regardless of their actual date of birth. It's a unique Canadian tradition, as other Commonwealth nations do not observe this particular holiday.

🌞 The Unofficial Start of Summer

Beyond the historical context, Victoria Day marks the unofficial beginning of summer in Canada. Gardens come alive, patios open up, and Canadians everywhere take full advantage of the extra day to enjoy the outdoors. It’s a seasonal shift that brings longer days, warmer weather, and a renewed sense of energy.

While some provinces and territories mark the day differently—or not at all—Victoria Day is widely celebrated in most parts of Canada, including British Columbia.

🇨🇦 Victoria Day in Vancouver

Although Vancouver doesn’t host official public fireworks for Victoria Day like some other cities, the weekend remains a vibrant and meaningful part of the city’s seasonal rhythm. From enjoying extra time with family to taking in the natural beauty of the Lower Mainland, the long weekend offers a moment of pause and appreciation.

📝 Final Thoughts

Victoria Day is more than just a long weekend—it’s a reminder of Canada’s connection to its past and the monarch who helped shape it. Whether you’re relaxing at home, reflecting on history, or simply enjoying the extra day, it’s a meaningful marker in Canada’s cultural calendar.

Happy Victoria Day, Vancouver! 🇨🇦
Let’s celebrate where we’ve come from—and the summer ahead.

#VictoriaDay #QueenVictoria #CanadianHistory #StatHoliday #MayLongWeekend #VancouverBC #StartOfSummer #CanadaTradition #VictoriaDayFacts

During this week’s Clean City Blitz, several instances of illegally dumped large items were discovered in our community. This ongoing issue not only affects the cleanliness and appearance of our neighbourhoods, but it also creates unnecessary environmental and safety hazards.

Fortunately, the City of Port Coquitlam offers a convenient and free solution for properly disposing of unwanted large household items. The Large Item Pick-Up Program is designed to reduce illegal dumping and ensure that bulky items are disposed of responsibly and efficiently.

What is the Large Item Pick-Up Program?

This program allows qualifying households to schedule two free curbside pick-ups per calendar year, with a maximum of three items per pick-up (for a total of six items annually). Items commonly accepted include:

• Mattresses (must be plastic-wrapped)

• Furniture

• Appliances

• Tires

• Exercise equipment

• And more

Please note: only households that receive City waste services and pay a solid waste levy on their property tax bill are eligible. If you're a renter, you can still use the program with your landlord's permission. The property owner must contact the City to authorize participation.

How to Book a Pick-Up

Booking your large item pick-up is easy. Simply follow these steps:

1. Ensure Eligibility
   Confirm that your household qualifies under the program guidelines. Renters must have the property owner's approval in advance.

2. Submit a Request Online
   Fill out the online booking form at portcoquitlam.ca/largeitem. You can schedule up to two pick-ups per year, with a limit of three items per pick-up.

3. Wait for Confirmation
   The City will send you an email within 2-5 business days to confirm your pick-up date. Be sure to check your spam or junk folder if you don’t see the email.

4. Prepare Your Items
   Do not place items curbside until your confirmed pick-up date. Any items left out in advance may be considered illegal dumping and can result in fines. On the day of your appointment, place your items at the curb by 7:00 am.

Please keep in mind that requests submitted in the final two weeks of the calendar year may count toward the following year’s allotment. Also, pick-ups can only be scheduled up to two weeks in advance.

Know Before You Book

Not all items are accepted. Submitting unapproved items or failing to follow the preparation criteria may result in your pick-up being denied. Before scheduling your appointment, review the full list of accepted and unaccepted items on the City’s website to avoid any issues.

Let's Keep Port Coquitlam Clean

By using the Large Item Pick-Up Program, residents can help maintain a clean, safe, and beautiful city for all. Avoid the fines and frustration that come with illegal dumping—take advantage of this free and accessible service instead.

For more information or to book your pick-up, visit: www.portcoquitlam.ca/largeitem

#PortCoquitlam #LargeItemPickup #PoCoProud #CurbsideCleanup #IllegalDumping #WasteSmart #CleanCityBlitz #CommunityCleanup #ResponsibleDisposal #WasteManagement #CityServices #EcoFriendlyLiving #DeclutterResponsibly #BulkyItemDisposal #SustainableLiving #KeepPoCoClean #PublicWorks #UrbanCleanUp #PoCoCleanup #GreenCommunity

Today marks 20 years since you passed away, and I miss you more than words can say. There’s an ache that doesn’t fade, and on days like today, that ache feels louder. Mother’s Day brings a mix of gratitude for the time we had and sorrow for the moments we’ll never share.

I’m thinking of you today and cherishing every memory we shared. The little moments, the laughs, the advice - the way you always knew how to make things better. Even though you’re no longer physically here, your love, strength, and influence are still with me every single day. It’s not always easy, and I often find myself wishing I could hear your voice or feel your hug. But your presence in my heart, your lessons, and your wisdom continue to shape who I am.

But I’m learning to carry you with me, to honour you in how I love my own children, and to keep your spirit alive in the choices I make. I miss you sooo much, and I Will Always Love You.

#MothersDay #InLovingMemory #MissYouMom #ForeverInMyHeart #MomInHeaven #CherishedMemories #GratefulForYou #RememberingMom #LoveAndLoss #20YearsWithoutYou #MomentsInTime #AlwaysWithMe #Heartfelt #FamilyLove #Motherhood #MothersDayLove

The spring real estate market is in full swing, but things are looking a little different this year—and that’s great news for buyers!

According to the latest stats from the Greater Vancouver REALTORS®, home sales in April 2025 dropped nearly 24% compared to April 2024. While that might sound concerning, it’s actually opening up incredible opportunities for buyers in Metro Vancouver, including the Tricities.

Why is this your moment to make a move?

✔️ Inventory is up 30% from this time last year, with over 16,000 homes currently for sale—the highest since 2019
✔️ Borrowing conditions are improving, with rates at their lowest in years
✔️ Home prices have remained steady for several months, giving buyers more time and flexibility

Benchmark Prices – April 2025:

• Detached Homes: $2,021,800 (down 0.7% year-over-year)

• Townhomes: $1,102,300 (down 2.9% year-over-year)

• Apartments: $762,800 (down 2% year-over-year)

Sales-to-active listings ratio is sitting at 13.8% overall—signaling a balanced market and more negotiating power for buyers.

Whether you're a first-time buyer, upsizing, downsizing, or exploring investment options, I'm here to help you navigate it all with clarity and confidence.

Let’s connect and turn this market shift into your opportunity.

Tara Kennedy
REALTOR®, ABR, RENE, SRS
236-992-8989
TaraKennedy.ca
TaraKennedySells@gmail.com

#TricitiesRealEstate #MetroVancouverHomes #CoquitlamRealtor #PortCoquitlamRealEstate #PortMoodyHomes #VancouverRealEstateMarket #HomePrices2025 #SpringHousingUpdate #BuyerOpportunities #RealEstateInsights #MarketShift #RealEstateTrends #RoyalLePageEliteWest #TaraKennedyRealtor #GreaterVancouverRealEstate #InventoryUpdate #DetachedHomesBC #TownhouseMarket #ApartmentPricesBC #BuyingInVancouver

Proud Mom Moment
On June 9th, 2025, my son Jaden will cross the stage and graduate from Simon Fraser University (SFU) with a degree in Biological Sciences — and what a journey it’s been to get here.

Jaden was part of the high school graduating class of June 2020, with his final semester abruptly ending on March 15, 2020, when Alberta schools closed due to the COVID-19 lockdowns. Despite the upheaval and uncertainty, he stayed focused and steady. He began university that fall, which was entirely online, and was advised to take general electives while saving the more rigorous core science courses for when in-person learning resumed.

Then, in August 2021, just before starting another term of online classes, Jaden broke his tibia and fibula in a soccer match while going in for a clean slide tackle. The opposing player’s kick fractured his leg in two places — and yet, he powered through recovery and his second year of university with quiet strength.

In September 2022, he made another courageous leap — moving from our small Alberta community of Ardrossan to British Columbia, leaving behind the only home he’d ever known… and both his Mom and Dad. He moved into SFU dorms with his brother and had to adjust to a new province, a new school system, and a new life. Because of differences in academic recognition, he even had to retake several elective courses. And through it all — he never once complained.

Coming from a high school of 600 students to university classes with 300 students per course, Jaden not only adjusted — he thrived. He took every challenge in stride and built a life here with grace, grit, and quiet determination. He was named to the Dean’s List for his academic excellence.

And now, as he closes this chapter, he’s preparing for the next big one: Jaden is scheduled to write his MCAT in September 2025, with the dream of becoming a Sports Medicine Doctor — a perfect combination of his love for science and sport.

Jaden is intelligent, humble, kind, and one of the most resilient and compassionate humans I’ve ever known. He faces difficulty without drama, leads with heart, and brings integrity into every space he walks into. I am so deeply proud of him — words hardly do it justice. Watching him grow into the man he is today has been one of the greatest joys of my life.

Here’s to new beginnings, big dreams, and a future that’s just getting started.

From My Family to Yours

Life is full of transitions — and watching our children step into the next chapter is one of the most emotional and fulfilling ones of all. Whether it's a cross-country move for school, downsizing after graduation, or planting new roots closer to family, real estate is always about more than properties. It’s about people, purpose, and finding a place to belong.

If you're navigating a new chapter in your own story — I'd be honoured to help you find the right place to call home.

Tara Kennedy
REALTOR®, ABR, RENE, SRS
Phone: 236-992-8989
Website: TaraKennedy.ca
Email: TaraKennedySells@gmail.com

I believe every home has a story — and so does every family. This is ours.
Thanks for letting me share a personal piece of my journey. If you’re navigating your own transition, whether it’s a move for school, family, or fresh beginnings, I’d be honoured to help you find your next place to call home.