Did you know that everything poured into storm drains in Port Coquitlam flows directly into our streams, rivers, and oceans — without any treatment? 😲 That means if you dump soap 🧼, oil 🛢️, pet waste 🐾, or chemicals ☣️ down a storm drain, you’re polluting precious habitats for fish 🐟, birds 🦆, and other wildlife.

But what about toilets and sinks? Wastewater from toilets, sinks, and other household drains 🚽 flows through a completely separate system called the sanitary sewer. This wastewater is carried to a wastewater treatment plant where it is cleaned and purified before being safely released back into local rivers, lakes, or the ocean. This process removes harmful substances and pollutants to protect the environment. In some cases, treated water may even be reused for irrigation or industrial purposes, depending on local regulations.

Unlike wastewater, storm drains only collect rainwater 🌧️ runoff. Pollutants in storm drains can suffocate aquatic life, destroy habitats, and poison the environment.

Special Note for Vehicle Washing 🚗💦:
If you wash your vehicle on your driveway, the soapy water and grime can flow into storm drains and directly pollute our waterways. Whenever possible, wash your car at a commercial car wash where water is treated, or use biodegradable soaps and minimize water runoff. This small change helps protect our rivers and lakes!

🌿 Every little action counts! Help keep Port Coquitlam’s waterways clean and healthy by putting only rainwater down storm drains.

For more information and tips on protecting our water:
🔗 Port Coquitlam Watercourse
Need help disposing of household waste properly? Use the Sort It Right! tool:
🔗 Sort It Right!

Tara Kennedy
Realtor® serving Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Coquitlam & the Tri-Cities
📞 Phone: 236-992-8989
✉️ Email: TaraKennedySells@gmail.com
🌐 Website: TaraKennedy.ca

Let’s work together to protect our community’s natural beauty and keep our waterways clean for generations to come! 💚🌎🐠

#PortCoquitlam #CleanWater #ProtectOurWaterways #StormDrainSafety #EcoFriendlyLiving #WaterConservation #SaveOurStreams #WildlifeProtection #GreenCommunity #SustainableLiving #SortItRight #WaterwayProtection #EnvironmentalAwareness #DrivewayCarWashTips #HealthyHabitats #WaterTreatment #StormwaterManagement #ProtectNature #TaraKennedyRealtor #TaraKennedy #RoyalLepageEliteWest #PortCoquitlamRealtor

Ready to step into the rainforest nobody knows about? Beginning August 1st, Squamish Canyon officially opens its gates — and it’s more than just a walk in the woods.

📍 Just outside Squamish, this new eco-experience weaves elevated boardwalks through a lush, temperate rainforest, offering jaw-dropping canyon views usually reserved for hardcore backcountry hikes — no hiking boots required.

🌿 What to Expect:
✔️ Scenic boardwalks + a cantilevered bridge
✔️ A massive nature-themed playground
✔️ The Forest Lounge (local bites, cocktails, BC wine & beer)
✔️ Moss and Mug Café (pre-admission, dog walkers welcome!)
✔️ A shop featuring Indigenous-made & local Squamish goods
✔️ Family-friendly programming & games for kids
✔️ And views that will seriously take your breath away

Squamish Canyon was created with conservation in mind — built to protect, not disturb, the natural environment. The team worked closely with the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) to open the door to deeper storytelling and cultural connection.

💬 “We want people to walk away with a sense of awe… and a reminder of the beauty of where we live,” says general manager Ken Bailey.

🎟️ Opening Day: August 1, 2025
🕘 Open daily, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. (last entry at 5 p.m.)
📍 39180 Powerhouse Springs Rd., Squamish, B.C.
🚗 Drive-in only, timed entry (100 guests per half hour)

👉 Book your tickets now at squamishcanyon.ca – spots are limited!

Get ready to explore a rainforest you’ve never seen… and won’t soon forget. 🌧️🌲💚

#SquamishCanyon #BCRainforest #EcoTourism #ExploreSquamish #OpeningSoon #FamilyFriendlyAdventure #SquamishNature #SupportLocalBC

Across British Columbia—especially in the Tri-Cities—there’s a quiet but significant factor shaping our housing crisis: seniors choosing not to downsize. Many are remaining in their long time family homes well into their 70s, 80s, and beyond 👵👴. While their reasons are completely valid, this trend is having ripple effects on housing availability particularly for younger buyers 🏘️🧑‍💼.

Let’s explore what’s driving this trend, why it matters, and what needs to change.

🏘️ Seniors Aren’t Downsizing — The Data Tells the Story

According to the 2016 Canadian census and a 2023 CMHC report, Canadians aged 75+ are the least likely to move. In BC, where roughly 80% of seniors own their homes, this trend is especially impactful. In fact, the “sell rate” among those over 75 has been declining steadily since 1991 📉.

Most are still living in 3 or 4 bedroom homes ~ even after the kids have moved out. Between 2006 and 2021, the number of homes with underutilized bedrooms rose from 26% to 29% nationally. Cities like Coquitlam, Port Moody, and Port Coquitlam continue to show a large percentage of “empty nest” homes with unoccupied space 🛏️➡️📦.

💬 Why Aren’t Seniors Moving?

The stereotype of retirees excited to downsize and travel doesn’t reflect the full picture.

Many seniors are choosing to stay for important reasons:

• 💔 Emotional attachment to long-time homes

• 🦽 Mobility or cognitive challenges

• 💸 High costs of moving: staging, legal fees, movers, and renovations

• 🏷️ No real financial benefit from selling and buying again

• 🌿 A lack of senior-friendly homes where they can garden, host family, or age comfortably

Most who do move, do so under stress - following a health crisis or financial hardship and not by choice.

🏢 The Condo Conundrum

Let’s look at the "downsizing" alternatives seniors are offered.

In Metro Vancouver, the average detached home is about 2,000 sq ft. New condos? Just 650–769 sq ft, and often even smaller in newer developments 📏. These micro-units are rarely suitable for older adults.

With little storage, no outdoor space, and layouts built for young professionals—not aging residents—most seniors see these homes as a lifestyle downgrade, not a step forward.

Even financially, downsizing doesn’t always add up. The cost of new condos in walkable Tri-Cities neighbourhoods is often close to the sale price of their family homes, meaning there’s little financial incentive to move.

💰 The Property Transfer Tax (PTT): A Hidden Barrier

BC’s Property Transfer Tax (PTT) is a major obstacle for seniors considering a move:

• 1% on the first $200,000

• 2% on the portion between $200,000 and $2 million

• 3% on the amount over $2 million

That means a senior selling a $1.5M home and purchasing a $1.2M condo could pay $20,000+ in PTT alone, before accounting for legal fees, moving costs, or renovations 💵.

It’s no wonder many ask: Why would I move just to pay more taxes and get less space?

⚠️ BC’s Housing Policy Is Missing the Mark

A recent CTV News report highlights how BC’s government is encouraging seniors to move in order to “make room” for younger families. But this puts undue pressure on older adults to solve the housing crisis—and ignores the root issue: we aren’t building the right kinds of homes.

Here’s where the strategy falls short:

• 🔹 A lack of truly senior-friendly builds — single-level, accessible, and adaptable

• 🔹 Minimal options in desirable, connected neighbourhoods (like the Tri-Cities)

• 🔹 Few multigenerational or mid-sized homes, despite demand for them

🌻 Seniors Still Want a Life — Not Just a Roof

For many older homeowners, life in their current home includes gardening 🌿, having family over 🍽️, and space for grandchildren to visit 🧸. Downsizing to a 600 sq ft condo with no patio or guest room strips away those joys.

Instead of pushing seniors to move, BC should:

✅ Offer PTT relief for those who rightsize
✅ Incentivize developers to build homes that actually meet aging needs
✅ Respect lifestyle and community connections instead of defaulting to "smaller is better"

🧠 Final Thoughts: A Better Approach for Everyone

It may seem counterintuitive, but helping seniors transition on their own terms could be the key to unlocking inventory for families and first-time buyers 🔄🏘️.

We need empathy, policy reform, and housing options that reflect real lives—not just market math.

👋 Thinking of Downsizing or Helping a Loved One Navigate a Move?

I specialize in working with both senior homeowners and first time buyers …. and I’m here to guide you with honesty, care, and practical solutions.

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

Let’s have a conversation about what truly works for you—today and tomorrow. ☀️

#TriCitiesRealEstate #PortCoquitlam #Coquitlam #PortMoody #TaraKennedy #RoyalLePageEliteWest #HomeSweetHome #RightSizeNotDownsize #SeniorLivingSolutions #BCRealEstate #BCPropertyTransferTax #SeniorsHousingCrisis #RealEstate #TaraKennedyRealtor #EmptyNestHomes #HelpingSeniorsMove #AgeInPlaceBC #SmartMovesBC #UnlockHousingInventory #Downsizing 

As of July 24, 2025, the BC Financial Services Authority (BCFSA) has released important updates affecting how property information and defects must be disclosed in real estate transactions. Whether you're buying, selling, or advising clients, these changes could impact the way deals are structured, negotiated, and protected from future legal complications.

🧠 Why These Changes Matter

The updates were triggered by a BC Court of Appeal decision in Sewell vs. Abadian, prompting the British Columbia Real Estate Association (BCREA) to revise key disclosure forms. In turn, BCFSA updated its guidelines to promote greater transparency and reduce post-transaction disputes.

📋 What's New in Disclosure?

1. Revised Property Disclosure Statement (PDS)

   • Licensees are strongly encouraged to have sellers complete this form accurately and in full.

   • It now includes a disclaimer stating that information is accurate as of the date completed and may not reflect current conditions.

   • Blank or incomplete forms can carry risks for sellers and create suspicion among buyers.

2. NEW: “Property No Disclosure Statement”

   • Gives sellers the option to disclose nothing—but this comes with risks.

   • Buyers should view this as a red flag and conduct additional inspections or due diligence.

3. NEW: “Realtor’s Disclosure of Material Latent Defects”

   • Replaces the old “Seller’s Disclosure” version.

   • Includes a seller acknowledgement confirming they understand the licensee's disclosure obligations.

   • Authorizes the licensee to disclose material latent defects, even if the seller is unwilling to share information themselves.

👀 What Buyers & Sellers Should Know

🏠 For Sellers:

• Complete the PDS honestly and fully—it improves your property's credibility and marketability.

• Avoiding disclosure or choosing the “No Disclosure” form may scare off buyers or expose you to legal claims after closing.

• Remember: even without a form, you have a common law duty to disclose latent defects.

🔍 For Buyers:

• A “No Disclosure” form should raise questions. It doesn’t always mean there’s a problem—but it does mean you need to dig deeper.

• Consider making a completed PDS a condition in your offer.

• Check with your lender—some may not approve financing if full disclosure isn’t provided.

🤝 What Real Estate Professionals Need to Do

• Encourage sellers to fully complete the PDS wherever possible.

• Review the new forms and educate your clients on the implications of using or not using them.

• Ensure your buyers understand their rights, risks, and what additional steps to take when disclosures are limited.

📌 Final Thoughts

Disclosure is not just a legal box to tick—it’s a key piece of building trust, avoiding disputes, and ensuring a smooth transaction. These changes from BCREA and BCFSA underscore the importance of clear communication and professional guidance in every step of the real estate journey.

🔔 Have questions about how these changes could impact your home sale or purchase? I’m here to help you navigate with confidence. Let’s talk.

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

#BCRealEstate #BCFSA #BCREA #PropertyDisclosure #MaterialLatentDefects #RealEstateUpdate #HomeBuyers #HomeSellers #RealEstateAdvice #RealtorTips #RealEstateRegulations #BCPropertyMarket #RealEstateBC #TransparencyMatters #LegalRiskInRealEstate #TaraKennedyRealtor #TaraKennedy #RoyalLePageEliteWest #PortCoquitlamRealtor #CoquitlamRealtor #PortMoodyRealtor 

Vancouver’s housing market has cooled, but if you’ve been hearing that it’s all because of global “uncertainty,” it might be time to take a second look.

In a recent analysis from Andrew Lis at REBGV, we’re given a deeper — and more data-driven — breakdown of what’s really happening.

📈 What's the Market Saying?

While Toronto is seeing a sharp rise in condo inventory, Vancouver’s increase has been more modest and better balanced across all property types. MOI (Months of Inventory) in Vancouver is up ~35% compared to double in Toronto.

Even more interesting:

• Vancouver home prices are still up ~1% year-over-year

• Toronto prices have dropped nearly 2%

🧠 What the Media Thinks Is Causing This

The popular theory? Global uncertainty, interest rate jitters, and trade war fears (yes, Trump again).
But according to Lis — the data doesn’t support that theory.

➡️ BC & Ontario have always been expensive
➡️ Borrowing costs have come down, not up
➡️ Other expensive markets like Alberta are thriving despite the same global environment
➡️ Historically, no strong correlation exists between uncertainty and Vancouver sales dips

🔍 So What’s Really Going On?

Lis turns the question around:
Instead of asking “Why are BC and Ontario slow?”
👉 We should be asking: “Why are so many other markets doing well?”

His analysis challenges assumptions, invites more curiosity, and opens the door for fresh thinking in a complex market.

💬 Final Thought

This slowdown is not business as usual — and it’s not explained by the usual suspects.

As a local REALTOR® staying on top of this evolving story, I’m here to help you navigate what this means for your next move.

📞 Let’s connect if you’re thinking about buying or selling in the Tri-Cities area.

📍Tara Kennedy – REALTOR®
Serving Coquitlam | Port Coquitlam | Port Moody
🔑 Real Advice. Real Results.

🔑 #TaraKennedyRealEstate #YourRealtorInTheTricities #CoquitlamRealEstate #PortMoodyRealtor #PortCoquitlamHomes #VancouverRealEstate #AndrewLis #HousingTrends #RealEstateInsights #TriCitiesRealEstate #HomeBuyingBC #BCRealtor

In an important move to address British Columbia’s ongoing housing supply challenges, the provincial government has announced a major policy change that could help developers access capital more easily and get new projects underway sooner.

On July 2, 2025, Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon shared that starting in January 2026, developers throughout B.C. will be permitted to use on-demand surety bonds instead of traditional irrevocable letters of credit to secure municipal development fees. While this may sound technical, the impact could be substantial especially for smaller and mid-sized builders.

💡 What’s Changing?

Currently, developers must:

• Pay at least one-third of their municipal development charges when a subdivision or building permit is approved.

• Pay the remaining balance within two years.

Under the new system:

• Developers will only need to pay 25% at permit approval.

• The remaining 75% can be deferred until occupancy or within four years, whichever comes first.

Additionally, the province is expanding the use of surety bonds, which are already being used in municipalities like Vancouver, Burnaby, and Surrey. These bonds act as a financial guarantee but don’t tie up capital the way traditional letters of credit do—allowing developers to reinvest in construction rather than locking funds away.

🏗️ Why This Matters

B.C. is in the midst of a housing affordability crisis, and developers have been facing increasing barriers:

• Rising material costs due to tariffs

• Softening presale activity

• Lower immigration numbers

• High interest rates

• Tightening credit markets

• Fewer rental property investors

These financial pressures have made it difficult for many developers, especially smaller ones, to get projects off the ground. Some have even had to lay off employees or cancel developments entirely due to the inability to secure enough capital.

By easing upfront financial requirements and expanding bond options, the province hopes to:

• Encourage more housing starts

• Lower early-stage carrying costs

• Make projects more viable

• Support a faster delivery of homes across the province

🗣️ What Industry Leaders Are Saying

Terry Hui, CEO of Concord Pacific, called the announcement a “good initiative” and acknowledged the immense pressure developers are under from all angles. “This policy will help, especially as financing becomes harder to secure,” he said, noting that smaller builders stand to benefit the most.

Anne McMullin, President of the Urban Development Institute, emphasized that requiring full payment of development charges upfront has been increasingly “onerous” and was slowing down new supply. “By shifting payment to occupancy, the provincial government is enabling more projects to move forward,” she said.

🚪 What’s Next?

This policy will officially take effect in January 2026 and applies to all communities in British Columbia. The goal is to unlock stalled or delayed housing projects and improve affordability through increased supply.

As someone deeply engaged in the real estate market, I see this as a positive step forward. The combination of more flexibility and better capital access could play a critical role in getting new homes built—and in helping more people find a place to call home in B.C.

If you’re thinking about buying or selling, or just want to stay informed about local housing policy, I’d love to chat.

✨ Tara Kennedy
🏡 REALTOR®, ABR, RENE, SRS
📞 236-992-8989
🌐 tarakennedy.ca
📍 Serving the Tri-Cities and surrounding areas

#BCHousingPolicy #HousingStarts #BCRealEstateNews #UrbanDevelopment #SuretyBondsExplained #TaraKennedyRealtor #BCRealEstateUpdate #AffordableHousingSolutions #TriCitiesRealEstate #TaraKennedy #RoyalLepageEliteWest #TaraKennedyRealEstate #HomeSweetHome #BCHousing #BCRealEstate #HousingNews #RealEstateUpdate #DevelopmentNews #HomeBuilderSupport #AffordableHousing #VancouverRealEstate #TriCitiesRealEstate #NewHomeDevelopment #MarketUpdate #RealEstateCanada #InvestInRealEstate #PolicyMatters #BCGovernmentUpdate #SmartHousingPolicy #BuildMoreHomes #RealEstateNews #RaviKahlon #SuretyBonds #HousingCrisisSolutions #RealEstateInvestment #PropertyDevelopment

After a rocky start to 2025, Metro Vancouver’s real estate market is showing encouraging signs of stabilization. While overall sales activity is still below long-term averages, the gap is narrowing — and that signals a potential shift in momentum.

According to the Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR), a total of 2,181 residential properties were sold across Metro Vancouver in June 2025. This represents a 9.8% decrease year-over-year, but it's a marked improvement over May’s sharper decline. In fact, the year-over-year sales drop in June was half the size of May’s, suggesting the market may be rounding a corner.

📊 Key Market Highlights for June 2025

Sales Activity

• Total home sales: 2,181

• Down 9.8% from June 2024 (2,418 sales)

• 25.8% below the 10-year seasonal average (2,940)

Detached home sales:

• 657 units sold, down 5.3% YoY

• Benchmark price: $1,994,500 (↓ 3.2% YoY)

Apartment sales:

• 1,040 units sold, down 16.5% YoY

• Benchmark price: $748,400 (↓ 3.2% YoY)

Townhouse sales:

• 473 units sold, up 3.7% YoY

• Benchmark price: $1,103,900 (↓ 3.0% YoY)

Inventory Levels

• 6,315 new listings hit the market in June — a 10.3% increase from June 2024

• Total active listings: 17,561, up 23.8% YoY

• Inventory is now 43.7% above the 10-year seasonal average

This increase in inventory offers buyers more selection and negotiating power, while also providing some breathing room for the market overall.

🔍 Sales-to-Active Listings Ratio

The overall sales-to-active listings ratio for June 2025 sits at 12.8%, placing most property types in balanced market territory:

• Detached: 9.9%

• Attached: 16.9%

• Apartments: 13.9%

Historical trends suggest that when this ratio falls below 12% for a sustained period, prices typically come under downward pressure. On the other hand, ratios consistently above 20% often lead to upward price movement. Currently, the data supports a holding pattern, where prices are neither rising nor falling dramatically.

💬 Expert Insight

Andrew Lis, Director of Economics and Data Analytics at GVR, summarized the month’s results this way:

“With over 17,000 homes on the market and mortgage rates down about two per cent since last summer, buyers are enjoying some of the most favourable conditions seen in years.”

Lis also noted that while sales are still underperforming historic norms, the downward trend is easing — potentially setting the stage for a rebound in the second half of the year.

🔑 What This Means for You

For buyers, this is a rare opportunity. Inventory is strong, competition is manageable, and mortgage rates are more attractive than they’ve been in recent memory.

For sellers, pricing strategy is key. While prices have dipped slightly year-over-year, they're holding relatively steady month-over-month. Homes that are well-presented and correctly priced are still selling — especially in the attached segment, where sales have actually increased.

Whether you're buying your first home, upgrading, downsizing, or considering selling, staying informed is essential. Real estate is local, and no two neighbourhoods move at the same pace.

🏡 Let’s Talk About Your Next Move

If you’re curious about what these numbers mean for your specific situation — or you're ready to take the next step — I’d love to help you navigate today’s market with confidence.

✨ Tara Kennedy
🏡 REALTOR®, ABR, RENE, SRS
📞 236-992-8989
🌐 www.tarakennedy.ca

#MetroVancouverRealEstate #June2025MarketUpdate #BCRealEstate #HomePrices #HousingMarketTrends #RealEstateNews #CoquitlamRealtor #VancouverHomes #MLSStats #GVRStats #BalancedMarket #RealEstateExpert #TaraKennedyRealtor #BuyWithConfidence #SellSmart #HomeOwnershipBC

Every July 1st, Canadians from coast to coast to coast gather to celebrate Canada Day, marking the birth of our nation. It’s a day full of fireworks, parades, and backyard BBQs - but behind the festivities lies a rich and meaningful story that defines who we are as Canadians.

On July 1st, 1867, the British North America Act (now called the Constitution Act) came into effect, uniting the colonies of Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia into a single Dominion within the British Empire—Canada. It was the beginning of Canada’s path to full independence, which would gradually evolve over the following century.

Originally known as Dominion Day, the holiday was renamed Canada Day in 1982, the same year the country formally patriated its constitution and adopted the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. That move marked the full sovereignty of Canada, symbolizing the maturity of the nation.

A Mosaic of Cultures

Canada is often referred to as a cultural mosaic, and for good reason. Home to over 38 million people, with two official languages (English and French) and countless others spoken by immigrant and Indigenous communities, Canada is a land of diversity, inclusion, and shared values.

Canada Day is a time to celebrate that diversity while also reflecting on our collective journey, including the more difficult chapters of our past. Honouring the resilience and contributions of Indigenous Peoples is an important part of shaping a more truthful and inclusive national identity.

What Makes Canada Unique?

• 🇨🇦 Natural Beauty: From the Rockies to the Atlantic, and the Prairies to the Arctic, Canada's landscapes are as diverse as its people.

• 🧡 Universal Healthcare: A point of national pride and a symbol of compassion.

• 🍁 Global Reputation: Canadians are known for being polite, resilient, and community-minded.

• 🕊️ Peacekeeping and Diplomacy: Canada has long been a global leader in promoting peace and human rights.

• 🎓 Education and Innovation: Canada consistently ranks among the top countries for quality of life, education, and innovation.

A Day to Reflect and Reconnect

Whether you’re watching fireworks with loved ones, attending a citizenship ceremony, or simply enjoying the outdoors, Canada Day is about more than celebration … it’s about reflection. It’s a moment to recognize how far we've come, where we are today, and what we want our future to look like.

As we wave the red and white flag on July 1st, let’s carry forward the values of kindness, inclusion, and unity that define our great country.

✨ If you’re new to the Tri-Cities area or looking to make a move, I’d love to help you feel right at home. Whether you're buying or selling, let's connect and make your next move a confident one.

Tara Kennedy
🏡 REALTOR®, ABR, RENE, SRS
📞 236-992-8989
🌐 www.tarakennedy.ca
📍 Serving Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody & surrounding areas

#CanadaDay #July1st #CanadianPride #TrueNorthStrongAndFree #CelebrateCanada #MapleLeafForever #CanadianHistory #OhCanada #ProudToBeCanadian #ILoveMyCountry