October 24, 2026 | British Columbia

Today is Election Day in British Columbia. Voters across the province have an opportunity to help shape the future of our communities by choosing who will represent them in the BC Legislature.

From housing affordability and the cost of living to health care, education, public safety, transportation and the economy, provincial decisions affect our everyday lives. For those of us living in the Tri-Cities, these issues are particularly relevant as our communities continue to grow and residents navigate the challenges of affordability, housing supply and local infrastructure.

But before casting a ballot, I believe there is something important to remember: your vote should reflect your own research, priorities and beliefs — not someone else's political agenda.

Why this election matters

Provincial elections are an opportunity to evaluate the direction of our province and decide which candidates best represent our interests.

Regardless of which issues matter most to you, take the time to look beyond headlines, campaign slogans and social media posts. Consider what each candidate is proposing, what their party has committed to, and how those plans could affect you, your family and your community.

Some of the key issues worth examining include:

• Housing and affordability: Housing supply, rental costs, homeownership, development and the policies affecting buyers and homeowners.

• Health care: Access to family doctors, hospital capacity, health care staffing and timely medical services.

• Cost of living and the economy: Taxes, employment, business conditions and the cost of everyday essentials.

• Education: Classroom resources, school capacity and planning for growing communities.

• Public safety: Community safety, policing and access to mental health and social services.

• Transportation and infrastructure: Transit services, road congestion and the infrastructure needed to support population growth.

Every voter will weigh these issues differently. The important thing is to understand the choices available and decide which candidate's priorities most closely align with your own.

Who is running in the Tri-Cities?

For local residents, knowing who is on the ballot in your electoral district is an important starting point. Here is a look at the candidates identified for the four Tri-Cities ridings.

Port Coquitlam

• Mike Farnworth — BC NDP

• Keenan Adams — BC Conservatives

• Stephanie Hendy — BC Greens

• Lee-Ann Bates — Unaffiliated

• Lewis C. Dahlby — Libertarian

Port Moody–Burquitlam

• Rick Glumac — BC NDP

• John McEwen — BC Conservatives

• Wei Chou — BC Greens

• Freddy Rawji — CentreBC

Coquitlam–Burke Mountain

• Jodie Wickens — BC NDP

• Ryan Peterson — BC Conservatives

• Valerie Morrison — BC Greens

• Kaden Mann — CentreBC

Coquitlam–Maillardville

• Jennifer Blatherwick — BC NDP

• Matt Liang — BC Conservatives

• Nicola Spurling — BC Greens

These names and affiliations should be checked against the official Elections BC candidate list before publication, particularly if you are using this article as a voting reference.

Find the official list here: Elections BC — 2026 Provincial Election Candidates.

Look beyond the headlines and social media

I believe people should be able to make their own informed political decisions without being influenced by someone else's personal agenda.

It is easy to take statements out of context, selectively present information or frame facts in a way that supports a particular position. A social media post may highlight one part of a candidate's record while leaving out information that could change how a reader interprets it.

That is why I encourage everyone to do their own independent research.

Read the full policy announcements. Visit candidates' official websites. Compare their platforms and examine their records where applicable. Look at credible reporting from different sources, and consider whether the information being shared gives you the full picture.

You do not have to agree with every position a candidate takes. What matters is understanding their priorities, considering the available evidence and deciding for yourself who you believe will best represent your interests.

Don't let a post on social media make your voting decision for you.

How to vote in the 2026 BC provincial election

Final Voting Day is Saturday, October 24, 2026. Elections BC provides official information about voting locations, eligibility and election procedures.

Visit Elections BC to confirm your voting location and review the information you need before heading to the polls.

Your community. Your province. Your voice.

Elections are about more than political parties. They are about the people who live in our communities and the future we want to build.

Whether your priorities are housing, health care, affordability, education, public safety or something else entirely, take the time to understand your options and make a decision you feel confident in.

Vote for the candidate you believe will best represent your values, your priorities and your vision for the future.

Your vote should reflect what you believe in — not what someone else wants you to believe.

🗳️ Make your voice heard. Vote informed.

Tara Kennedy | REALTOR®
Royal LePage West Real Estate Services
Serving Port Coquitlam and the Tri-Cities

This article is intended as a non-partisan community information resource. It does not endorse or oppose any political party or candidate.

#BCElection2026 #ElectionDay #BCPolitics #YourVoteMatters #TriCitiesBC #TriCitiesBC #PortCoquitlam #Coquitlam #PortMoody #VoteBC

Canada’s housing affordability crisis didn’t happen overnight. New international research reveals how population growth, housing supply and decades of sustained price increases have combined to make homeownership increasingly challenging for Canadians.

Canada’s Housing Market: How Did We Get Here?

Housing affordability has become one of Canada’s most significant economic challenges. For many buyers, particularly first-time buyers and younger households, entering the market has become increasingly difficult. But how did Canada reach this point, and why have our home prices risen faster than those in so many other developed countries?

International housing research comparing Canada with other developed economies offers some important answers. Since 2005, Canadian home prices, adjusted for inflation, have more than doubled. That growth has outpaced most comparable countries, suggesting that Canada’s affordability challenges are not simply the result of a global housing trend.

Instead, the research points to a combination of strong population growth, rising incomes, historically low borrowing costs and housing construction that has struggled to keep pace with increasing demand.

1. Population Growth Has Put Significant Pressure on Housing

Population growth is one of the most important factors influencing housing demand. As more people move to Canada, the need for homes increases, whether through renting, purchasing a first property or moving into a larger home.

Between 2023 and 2024, Canada added nearly five new residents for every completed home, according to the research. This illustrates the scale of the challenge: even when construction increases, the number of new homes may not be sufficient to accommodate a rapidly growing population.

The relationship between population growth and housing prices is not unique to Canada. Countries such as Australia, New Zealand, Norway and Sweden have also experienced population growth alongside rising home prices.

However, Canada recorded the steepest increase in inflation-adjusted home prices among these comparable economies over the two decades examined.

The key issue is not population growth alone. It is whether housing construction can keep pace with the number of people who need a place to live.

2. Canada Has Not Built Enough Housing Relative to Demand

Canada has continued to build homes, and its annual construction rate has remained slightly above the OECD average in the years examined. However, that does not necessarily mean construction has been sufficient to meet the country's needs.

Between 2011 and 2022, Canada’s annual housing completions increased only modestly as a share of the existing housing stock, from approximately 1.2% to 1.3%.

Several other countries made greater progress in expanding construction over the same period. Australia, for example, maintained a stronger housing construction rate of approximately 1.7%.

The research also found that housing demand in Canada increasingly outpaced supply beginning in the second half of the 2010s, with the gap widening sharply after 2021.

This distinction matters. A country can build more homes every year and still experience worsening affordability if demand grows faster than the number of available properties.

For Canada, addressing the housing shortage requires more than announcing construction targets. It requires sustained delivery of completed homes that meet the needs of a growing population.

3. Canada Has Fewer Homes Per Person Than Many Comparable Countries

Another important finding is that Canada has fewer dwellings per thousand residents than most international peers and the OECD average.

This existing shortage can make the housing market more vulnerable when demand increases rapidly.

Countries such as Sweden and Norway have also experienced substantial population growth, but their larger housing stocks relative to their populations may have helped moderate price increases.

This highlights an important lesson: housing affordability depends not only on how many homes are being built today, but also on the housing stock a country has accumulated over many years.

When a market begins with fewer homes relative to its population, a sudden increase in demand can place additional pressure on both rents and purchase prices.

4. Low Interest Rates and Rising Incomes Also Contributed

Population growth and construction are not the only factors behind Canada's housing trajectory.

The research identifies rising incomes and low borrowing costs as additional sources of housing demand, particularly since the second half of the 2010s.

When mortgage financing becomes less expensive, buyers may be able to qualify for larger loans, increasing their purchasing power. When more buyers compete for a limited number of properties, prices can rise.

The reverse can also occur. Higher borrowing costs reduce purchasing power and can make it more difficult for households to qualify for mortgages, even when asking prices begin to soften.

This helps explain why housing affordability cannot be measured by home prices alone. Mortgage rates, household incomes, available inventory and the cost of carrying a property all influence whether homeownership is financially achievable.

5. Why Canada's Experience Has Been Different From Other Countries

International comparisons reveal several different housing market patterns.

The United States and United Kingdom experienced significant housing market corrections during the global financial crisis of 2008–2009, followed by recoveries. Canada experienced only a brief interruption in its longer-term price growth.

Other countries, including France and Germany, experienced more moderate growth, while Italy and Japan went through extended periods of limited or no price growth.

Demographic factors, including aging and shrinking populations, may help explain some of the differences.

Canada, Australia and Sweden, meanwhile, experienced relatively sustained price growth following the global financial crisis.

The research suggests that even if Canada had experienced a correction similar to that of the United States, Canadian home prices would still rank among the fastest-growing in the international comparison.

In other words, Canada's affordability challenges developed over decades. They cannot be explained by a single economic event, one government policy or one period of unusually strong demand.

6. What Can Canada Learn From Countries That Build More Housing?

Canada has introduced a range of measures intended to increase housing supply, but international experience suggests there is still more to learn.

Countries that have successfully expanded housing construction at a greater scale offer potential lessons in five key areas:

• Financial incentives: Encouraging the development and delivery of additional housing.

• Planning reform: Reviewing planning systems and approval processes that can affect how quickly housing is built.

• Construction innovation: Exploring more efficient ways to deliver new homes.

• Public land: Considering how publicly owned land can contribute to housing development.

• Country-specific strategies: Adapting successful approaches to local economic conditions, demographics and housing needs.

No single policy will resolve Canada's affordability challenges. Different communities face different constraints, and strategies that work in one country may not translate directly to another.

However, the broader lesson is clear: a lasting improvement in affordability will require sustained attention to housing supply, not simply short-term measures designed to influence demand.

What Does This Mean for Metro Vancouver Homebuyers and Sellers?

For those following the Metro Vancouver real estate market, these findings provide valuable context.

Housing affordability in our region has been a concern for years, and the research reinforces the importance of examining the structural factors behind price growth.

For buyers, affordability involves more than finding a property at a lower asking price. Mortgage qualification, interest rates, monthly ownership costs, available inventory and the range of homes that meet their needs all influence purchasing decisions.

For sellers, the broader economic environment matters as well. Buyer purchasing power, competition from other listings and the balance between supply and demand can influence both pricing and the time required to sell.

Importantly, national housing trends do not tell the whole story of an individual neighbourhood. Conditions can vary significantly by property type, price range and municipality. Understanding local sales, active listings and comparable properties remains essential when making real estate decisions.

For communities across the Tri-Cities, including Port Coquitlam, Coquitlam and Port Moody, the relationship between new housing development, population growth and affordability will remain an important issue to watch.

The Bottom Line: Building More Homes Is Part of the Solution

Canada's housing affordability challenge is the result of years of sustained price growth combined with population growth and housing supply that has not kept pace with demand as effectively as in several comparable countries.

The international evidence suggests that improving affordability will require a long-term approach: expanding the housing stock, improving the delivery of new homes and ensuring construction responds to changing population needs.

For prospective buyers and homeowners, these findings provide a useful reminder that housing markets are shaped by more than interest rates or short-term price movements. Demographics, construction, public policy and the existing supply of homes all play a role.

The central question for Canada is no longer simply how many homes we build each year, but whether we can consistently build enough of the right homes to meet the needs of a growing population.

As governments, developers and communities consider the next phase of housing policy, the experiences of other countries may offer useful lessons. The challenge will be turning those lessons into lasting improvements in housing availability and affordability.

Get all the details: http://cmhcschl.ca/r14l50ZZ7Th

Source: International housing research examining real house prices, population growth and housing construction across Canada and comparable developed economies. International comparisons provide broad insights; differences in data definitions, demographics, institutions and policy mean that individual country results should be interpreted with caution.

Tara Kennedy, REALTOR® | Royal LePage West Real Estate Services

Serving Port Coquitlam, Coquitlam, Port Moody and the Tri-Cities.

📞 236-992-8989
🌐 www.tarakennedy.ca

Real estate decisions are best made with an understanding of both the broader market and the conditions affecting your specific property and neighbourhood.

#CanadianRealEstate #HousingAffordability #HousingCrisis #MetroVancouverRealEstate #TriCitiesBC #PortCoquitlam #RealEstateMarket #HousingSupply #HomeOwnership #TaraKennedyRealEstate

October 20, 2026 | Canadian Politics, Provincial Policy & the Economy

Alberta Votes to Stay in Canada: The Bigger Story Behind Last Night’s Referendum

Alberta’s referendum on October 19, 2026, delivered a clear message on one of the most consequential questions facing the province: Should Alberta remain part of Canada, or should the provincial government begin the legal process required to hold a binding referendum on separation?

With approximately 76% of counted votes favouring remaining in Canada, Albertans decisively rejected moving toward a formal separation referendum. Roughly 24% supported beginning that process, according to unofficial results reported on October 20.

However, the referendum was about considerably more than Alberta’s future within Confederation. Nine additional questions asked voters to weigh in on immigration, access to publicly funded services, voting requirements and the balance of constitutional power between provincial and federal governments.

The results provide an important snapshot of public opinion in Alberta. They also raise questions about how the province will pursue its demands for greater autonomy, what concessions Ottawa may be prepared to consider, and whether the referendum will change the political conversation across Canada.

Important: Results discussed in this article are preliminary and unofficial as of October 20, 2026. Elections Alberta has scheduled the publication of official results for October 29.

1. The Separation Question: A Clear Result, but Not the End of the Debate

The central question asked whether Alberta should remain a Canadian province or whether its government should commence the legal process required to hold a future binding referendum on separation.

This was not a direct vote on independence. Even a majority in favour of proceeding would not, by itself, have separated Alberta from Canada. It would have supported moving toward another referendum, followed by a much more complicated legal and constitutional process.

The early result is decisive: approximately three out of every four counted votes supported remaining in Canada.

For Premier Danielle Smith’s government, the outcome provides a clear public response to the immediate question of whether to pursue a formal separation referendum. Smith has previously described her position as supporting a sovereign Alberta within a united Canada, while acknowledging the grievances driving the independence movement.

For separatist advocates, the result represents a significant setback to their immediate objective. However, the underlying concerns about federal policy, energy development, taxation and provincial autonomy are unlikely to disappear simply because the separation proposal was rejected.

That distinction is important. Rejecting the path toward separation does not necessarily mean rejecting the grievances that helped bring the issue to a referendum.

Source: Global News — Alberta referendum results

2. Why Did Alberta Hold This Referendum?

The referendum emerged from longstanding tensions between Alberta and the federal government.

Alberta’s economy is heavily influenced by energy production, natural resources, investment and exports. Successive provincial governments and many Albertans have raised concerns about federal environmental policies, regulatory approvals, taxation and the extent of Ottawa’s influence over provincial economic development.

Supporters of greater provincial autonomy argue that Alberta should have more control over decisions affecting its economy, resources and public services. Some believe the province contributes more to federal revenues than it receives in spending and that federal policies have constrained its economic potential.

Those advocating separation argue that independence could give Alberta greater control over its revenues, regulations and economic priorities.

Opponents counter that separation would introduce substantial economic, legal and practical uncertainties. Questions surrounding federal debt and assets, trade, currency, borders, Indigenous rights, public services and market access would require careful negotiation. Alberta is also a landlocked province whose businesses rely on transportation and trade relationships extending beyond its borders.

These competing perspectives help explain why the referendum became such a prominent issue. It was not simply a question of provincial identity. It also reflected disagreements over economic opportunity, political representation and the structure of Canadian federalism.

The result suggests that, when presented with the choice between remaining in Canada and beginning a process that could lead to separation, a substantial majority of counted voters preferred the existing national framework.

3. The Other Nine Questions May Have Lasting Policy Implications

Although the separation question received most of the public attention, the remaining nine questions could have a more immediate influence on provincial policy discussions.

Five concerned immigration, publicly funded services and voter identification. Four addressed potential constitutional changes.

The early counts showed support for several proposals, although margins varied considerably. These figures remain unofficial and should not be interpreted as final outcomes.

Immigration and access to public services

The first five questions addressed the following proposals:

• Greater provincial control over immigration: Giving Alberta more influence over immigration levels, prioritizing economic migration and giving Albertans first priority for new employment opportunities.

• Eligibility for provincially funded programs: Limiting access to programs such as health care, education and social services to Canadian citizens, permanent residents and people with an Alberta-approved immigration status.

• A 12-month residency requirement: Requiring people with non-permanent legal immigration status to reside in Alberta for at least 12 months before qualifying for certain provincially funded social support programs.

• Fees for health care and education: Introducing a reasonable fee or premium for non-permanent residents and their families to use health care and education services.

• Proof of citizenship to vote: Requiring documentation such as a passport, birth certificate or citizenship card to vote in provincial elections.

The early results showed support for all five proposals, with support ranging from approximately 56% to 63% in the count reported on the morning of October 20.

These results indicate that many voters were receptive to the government's proposals on immigration management, service eligibility and voting requirements. However, they do not establish that voters agreed with every possible implementation detail or that the proposals will necessarily become law.

The practical consequences will depend on the legislation ultimately introduced, its precise eligibility rules, its administration and any applicable constitutional or legal constraints.

For example, the government has not yet fully defined what constitutes an Alberta-approved immigration status for the purposes of the second question. A vote supporting the principle does not resolve how that definition would work in practice.

Similarly, introducing fees for health care or education raises questions about the affected groups, the amount charged, the services covered and the relationship with existing federal and provincial requirements.

These are policy decisions that will need to be examined individually rather than assumed from the referendum result.

Source: The Canadian Press — A look at Alberta’s referendum questions

4. Constitutional Reform: Alberta Wants More Control, but the Process Is Complicated

Four referendum questions asked whether Alberta should work with other willing provinces to pursue constitutional changes.

The proposals concerned:

• Allowing provincial governments, rather than the federal government, to select judges appointed to provincial King's Bench and Appeal courts.

• Abolishing the unelected federal Senate.

• Allowing provinces to opt out of certain federal programs in provincial areas of jurisdiction without losing the associated federal funding.

• Giving provincial laws priority over conflicting federal laws in provincial or shared areas of constitutional jurisdiction.

The early results showed a more divided response to these questions than to the five immigration and voting proposals. Support for some changes was narrow, and the proposal concerning opting out of federal programs while retaining funding was opposed by a small majority in the reported count.

The distinction matters because constitutional reform is not simply a matter of one province expressing a preference.

Depending on the amendment, changes may require approval from the House of Commons, the Senate and provincial legislatures. The general amending formula requires approval from at least seven provinces representing at least 50% of Canada's population. Certain changes, including Senate abolition, are subject to a more demanding unanimity requirement.

Consequently, even where Albertans support a proposal, implementation would require negotiations with other governments and compliance with the applicable constitutional process.

This is one of the referendum's most significant implications: Alberta may have a public mandate to pursue certain changes, but it does not have the unilateral power to impose them on the rest of Canada.

Source: The Canadian Press — Alberta referendum questions and constitutional implications

5. What Does This Mean for Alberta’s Economy and Canadian Businesses?

The referendum outcome removes some immediate uncertainty surrounding the possibility of a future separation vote, but it does not resolve the policy disagreements that have contributed to Alberta's frustration with Ottawa.

For businesses, investors and employers, a continued place within Canada means the existing constitutional framework remains in place. That provides continuity in the national market, while the rejection of the separation process reduces the immediate prospect of a major constitutional disruption arising from this referendum.

There are several broader economic considerations worth watching.

Energy and natural resources: Alberta's energy sector remains closely connected to federal regulatory decisions, export infrastructure and international markets. Discussions about pipelines, resource development and environmental regulation are likely to remain central to relations between the province and Ottawa.

Investment and business confidence: Businesses generally need clarity about regulations, market access and the rules under which they operate. The referendum result offers some immediate clarity on the separation question, but future policy decisions will determine whether longer-term uncertainty declines.

Labour supply and immigration: Alberta's proposed changes could affect how employers recruit workers and how newcomers qualify for services. The eventual details will matter to businesses facing labour shortages, as well as to workers and families considering a move to the province.

Federal-provincial negotiations: The government may now concentrate on pursuing changes to immigration policy, funding arrangements and constitutional authority rather than advancing a separation referendum. Whether those efforts produce meaningful agreements remains to be seen.

For British Columbia, these developments are relevant as well. Alberta and British Columbia are connected through interprovincial trade, energy infrastructure, employment, investment and the movement of people. Changes to Alberta's immigration and economic policies could affect businesses and workers beyond its borders, depending on how the proposals are implemented.

It is too early to conclude that the referendum will produce a measurable economic benefit or cost for either province. The more useful approach is to watch the policy decisions and negotiations that follow.

6. What Happens Next?

The next stage involves both the completion of the count and the government's response.

First, Elections Alberta must finalize the results. The figures available on October 20 are unofficial. Official results are expected on October 29, and the final numbers will provide a firmer basis for assessing the outcome of each question.

Second, the provincial government must decide how to proceed on the nine policy questions. Because the questions were non-binding, the results do not automatically enact new legislation. The government will need to determine which proposals it intends to pursue, what changes it will introduce and how those changes will be implemented.

Third, Alberta will need to negotiate with Ottawa and other provinces on constitutional matters. The degree of support for a proposal does not remove the legal requirements for constitutional amendments. Some changes could face significant political and procedural obstacles.

Finally, the separation debate will continue to be part of Alberta's political landscape. The referendum rejected moving toward a formal separation vote, but the result does not erase the support for independence among a substantial minority of voters or resolve the concerns that motivate the movement.

Premier Smith's response and the government's subsequent policy agenda will help clarify how it intends to interpret the result.

7. The Bigger Picture: A Vote on Canada, but Also on How Canada Works

The most important lesson from Alberta's referendum is that national unity and provincial dissatisfaction can coexist.

The separation question produced a decisive result in favour of remaining in Canada. At the same time, the other questions demonstrated substantial support for several proposals aimed at increasing provincial control over immigration, public services and voting requirements.

Those findings should not be treated as contradictory. A voter can favour remaining Canadian while also wanting changes to how powers, responsibilities and funding are divided between governments.

The challenge now is whether Alberta and Ottawa can translate the referendum's results into practical discussions and workable policy.

For the federal government, the outcome offers an opportunity to address provincial concerns without treating separation as the only measure of Alberta's satisfaction with Confederation. For Alberta's government, it presents a test of whether its objectives can be advanced through negotiation, legislation and cooperation with other provinces.

For the rest of Canada, the referendum is a reminder that the relationship between provinces and the federal government is not static. Questions about resource development, immigration, public spending, constitutional authority and regional representation will continue to shape Canadian politics.

The referendum answered one immediate question clearly: Alberta's voters rejected moving toward a formal separation referendum. The more consequential question may be what governments do with the concerns that remain.

Final Thoughts

Alberta's referendum should not be viewed solely as a victory for national unity or a defeat for provincial autonomy. The results point to a more complex picture: a strong preference to remain in Canada alongside support for several proposals intended to change how the federation operates.

The coming weeks and months will reveal whether that combination leads to meaningful policy changes, renewed federal-provincial negotiations or further political disagreement.

For now, the clearest conclusion is that Alberta has chosen to remain within Confederation while leaving significant questions about its relationship with Ottawa unresolved.

Sources and Further Reading

• Elections Alberta — 2026 Referendum and Official Results Information

• Elections Alberta — Unofficial Referendum Results

• Global News — Alberta Voters Reject Separatism and Choose to Stay in Canada

• Global News — Albertans Mixed on Other Referendum Questions

• The Canadian Press — A Look at Alberta’s Referendum Questions

This article is intended to provide general information and analysis. Referendum results and policy implications should be reassessed as official results are released and the provincial government announces its next steps.

#AlbertaReferendum #Alberta #AlbertaPolitics #ABPoli #Canada #CanadianPolitics #RemainInCanada #AlbertaSeparation #AlbertaIndependence #DanielleSmith #MarkCarney #CanadianNews #Politics #Federalism #CanadaPolitics

Fall has arrived in Metro Vancouver, bringing with it a notable shift in real estate dynamics. According to the latest monthly figures from Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR), residential sales across the region totaled 1,717 in September 2026. This represents an 8.4 per cent decrease compared to September 2025 and sits roughly 25 per cent below the 10-year seasonal average.

However, headline numbers rarely tell the whole story. If you look closely beneath the surface, the current market is characterized by a distinct divergence between asset classes—and savvy buyers and sellers are taking note.

📉 The Big Picture: Apartments Lead the Slowdown

While sales are down about 8 per cent overall, that downward pressure is heavily concentrated in the apartment segment.

In recent years, apartments typically accounted for half of all sales in any given month. Last month, however, apartment sales dropped 18.6% year-over-year (falling to 777 sales).

• Why is this happening? Investor-driven demand is largely sitting on the sidelines, waiting for more favourable market conditions (such as further shifts in lending rates).

• The Silver Lining: For first-time home buyers and end-users, this pause in investor competition means significantly more breathing room, a wider selection of inventory, and real negotiating power that hasn't been seen in years.

By contrast, demand for detached and attached homes held up remarkably well, finishing slightly up compared to last September. Detached sales rose 4.2% (575 sales) and attached/townhome sales ticked up 0.6% (358 sales), confirming that end-user demand is actively steering the market.

📊 Regional Benchmark Prices at a Glance

With slow sales and active inventory trending lower over time, home prices have avoided a steep cliff-dive, instead drifting downward gradually. The composite benchmark price for all residential properties in Metro Vancouver now sits at $1,075,900, representing a 0.6% decrease from August 2026 and a 5.5% decrease year-over-year.

• Detached Homes: $1,784,700 (Down 7.3% YoY)

• Townhouses: $1,016,700 (Down 4.7% YoY)

• Apartments: $682,500 (Down 6.2% YoY)

⚖️ Where Does the Market Stand for Buyers and Sellers?

Across all property types, the sales-to-active listings ratio for Metro Vancouver sits at 10.9% (broken down as 9.7% for detached, 12.2% for attached, and 11.4% for apartments).

Historically, market analysis suggests that downward price pressure occurs when this ratio dips below 12 per cent for a sustained period. While we are technically dipping into buyer’s market territory, the combination of lower inventory has kept prices relatively stable rather than sparking a dramatic crash. Cumulative adjustments since the start of the year mean prices across all segments have drifted down by about three per cent.

📍 What Does This Mean Locally?

Shifting trends at the macro level always play out uniquely in our local neighbourhoods. When evaluating specific segments—like our local snapshot numbers for September—buyers are seeing distinct opportunities:

Townhomes continue to move at a brisk pace with an average of just 23 days on the market, proving that family-oriented attached housing remains in high demand. Meanwhile, detached homes and condos are offering buyers healthy inventory levels and time to make informed decisions without frantic bidding wars.

Navigating Your Next Move

Whether you're looking to capitalize on soft condo pricing as a first-time buyer, searching for a spacious townhome, or trying to strategize the sale of your detached property this fall, having accurate, localized data is your best advantage.

Curious what these numbers mean for your specific property value or home search? Get in touch today to start a conversation!

Thinking about navigating the fall market in Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, or Port Moody? Whether you're looking to buy your first condo or map out a strategic selling plan, let’s chat!

#TriCitiesRealEstate #Coquitlam #PortCoquitlam #PortMoody #MetroVancouverRealEstate #VancouverRealtor #HousingMarket #GVRStats #RealEstateUpdate #BCRealEstate #HomeBuying #HomeSelling #VancouverCondos #LowerMainland #TaraKennedy #RoyalLepageWestRealEstateServices

Published October 2026 | By Tara Kennedy, REALTOR®

Every October, as the leaves turn brilliant shades of gold, orange and red, Canadians gather with family and friends to celebrate Thanksgiving. For many, it means a special meal, familiar traditions and a welcome opportunity to slow down and appreciate the people and blessings in our lives.

But have you ever wondered how Thanksgiving began in Canada, why we celebrate it in October, or how this tradition evolved into the holiday we know today?

The story of Canadian Thanksgiving reaches back centuries, bringing together traditions of gratitude, harvest celebrations and the changing seasons.

The Origins of Thanksgiving in Canada

Long before Thanksgiving became a national holiday, Indigenous peoples across the lands now known as Canada had their own longstanding traditions of expressing gratitude for the harvest, the changing seasons and the natural world that sustained their communities. These traditions are diverse and continue today, rooted in the distinct cultures, histories and teachings of Indigenous Nations.

One of the earliest recorded European thanksgiving ceremonies in what is now Canada took place in 1578. English explorer Martin Frobisher and his crew held a ceremony in present-day Nunavut to give thanks for their safe arrival during an expedition in search of a Northwest Passage.

This gathering took place more than four decades before the 1621 harvest celebration commonly associated with the origins of Thanksgiving in the United States.

Over the following centuries, European settlers brought their own harvest festivals and religious thanksgiving traditions to Canada. These customs gradually became part of the country's evolving Thanksgiving observance.

How Thanksgiving Became a Canadian Holiday

Thanksgiving did not become an annual national observance overnight. Its history reflects Canada's development as a country.

1859 — A day of thanksgiving: Religious leaders in the Province of Canada called for a special day of thanksgiving, including observances expressing gratitude for blessings and a successful harvest.

1879 — An annual national observance: Thanksgiving was officially established as an annual holiday, although its date and purpose varied over the years. Celebrations were sometimes connected to harvests, religious observances or significant national events.

1957 — The October tradition is established: The Canadian Parliament officially proclaimed Thanksgiving as a day of general thanksgiving to Almighty God for the bountiful harvest with which Canada had been blessed, to be observed on the second Monday in October.

That decision established the October timing Canadians recognize today, although Thanksgiving's meaning continues to be personal and varied across the country.

Why Do Canadians Celebrate Thanksgiving in October?

Canada's Thanksgiving takes place earlier than the American holiday in November, largely reflecting the differences in climate and growing seasons.

Across much of Canada, the harvest season arrives earlier than it does in many parts of the United States. October provides an opportunity to recognize the year's agricultural bounty while autumn colours transform the landscape.

Here in British Columbia, Thanksgiving arrives as the days grow shorter, the air turns cooler and the fall colours emerge throughout our neighbourhoods, parks and communities. It is a beautiful time to appreciate the changing seasons and the natural surroundings that make our part of Canada so special.

Although harvest celebrations are part of Thanksgiving's history, today's traditions extend well beyond agriculture.

What Thanksgiving Means Today

For many Canadians, Thanksgiving is an opportunity to reconnect with family and friends, share a meal and reflect on the year that has passed.

It is also a reminder that gratitude is not reserved for special occasions. It can be found in the everyday moments that make life meaningful: a conversation with a friend, a helping hand from a neighbour, time spent with loved ones or the comfort of having a place to call home.

Of course, Thanksgiving does not look the same for everyone. Some celebrate with large family gatherings, while others enjoy a quiet day, connect with friends or create new traditions. For those experiencing a difficult season, the holiday can also be a reminder of the importance of compassion, community and support.

Taking time to recognize what we appreciate does not mean overlooking life's challenges. It simply allows us to make room for the good alongside them.

A Time to Appreciate Home and Community

Home often sits at the heart of Thanksgiving. It is where meals are shared, stories are told, traditions are passed down and memories are made.

But a sense of home extends beyond four walls. It can be found in the neighbourhood where people look out for one another, the local businesses that bring a community to life and the people who make a place feel welcoming.

Living and working in the Tri-Cities has given me another reason to appreciate the importance of community. The connections we build, the people we meet and the small acts of kindness we experience can make a lasting difference.

Thanksgiving is a wonderful opportunity to acknowledge those connections and consider how we can contribute to the communities we call home.

Celebrating Thanksgiving With Gratitude

As we celebrate Thanksgiving this year, I hope we can all take a moment to reflect on what we are grateful for.

Perhaps it is the people who have supported us, the lessons we have learned, the opportunities we have been given or simply the chance to spend time with those who matter most.

And if we are fortunate enough to have plenty, perhaps we can also extend a little kindness to someone who could use it.

After all, gratitude becomes even more meaningful when it is shared.

From my home to yours, I wish you and your loved ones a very Happy Thanksgiving. May your weekend be filled with warmth, laughter, meaningful connections and many reasons to be thankful.

With gratitude,

Tara Kennedy, REALTOR®
Royal LePage West Real Estate Services
236-992-8989
www.tarakennedy.ca

#CanadianThanksgiving #Gratitude #Thanksgiving2026 #TaraKennedyRealtor #HappyThanksgiving #Grateful #AlwaysBeThankful #TaraKennedy #RoyalLePageWestRealEstateServices #HomeSweetHome 

October 1, 2026

Canada took a significant step today toward developing a new West Coast oil pipeline connecting Alberta with British Columbia.

Prime Minister Mark Carney and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith announced that the proposed Pacific Link Pipeline has been designated a Project of National Interest under the federal Building Canada Act.

The announcement is significant—but it is important to understand exactly what has happened.

The pipeline has not been approved for construction.

Instead, the designation moves the project into a consolidated federal regulatory process intended to establish the conditions required for the project to proceed. The federal government is targeting September 1, 2027 for those conditions to be finalized.

What is the Pacific Link Pipeline?

The Pacific Link is a proposed approximately 1,250-kilometre crude oil pipeline connecting Alberta's energy infrastructure with a new export terminal on British Columbia's coast near Delta.

The proposed system would have the capacity to transport approximately one million barrels of crude oil per day to international markets.

The project is being advanced by Trans Mountain Corporation, the Alberta Petroleum Marketing Commission and Pembina Pipeline Corporation. The proposed route would generally follow existing pipeline infrastructure through much of southern British Columbia.

The estimated cost is currently between $35.2 billion and $43.7 billion, according to the federal government's assessment.

Proposed route

The pipeline would begin near Bruderheim, Alberta, before travelling west through Alberta and southern British Columbia.

The proposed system would ultimately connect with a deep-water marine terminal capable of loading Very Large Crude Carriers for international export.

For British Columbia, the proposed route is particularly relevant because the project would use a southern corridor rather than the northern B.C. coast.

Why is the federal government calling it a project of national interest?

One of the central arguments behind the project is export diversification.

Canada currently sends the overwhelming majority of its crude oil exports to the United States. A West Coast export route would create additional access to international markets, particularly in Asia.

The federal government says the project could provide an additional one million barrels per day of export capacity, while helping Canada diversify its trading relationships and reduce its dependence on the U.S. market.

The federal government also estimates that the project could generate:

• Approximately 140,000 jobs

• More than $20 billion in annual GDP

• Up to $100 billion in government revenue by 2060

These figures are government projections, not guaranteed economic outcomes. They depend on the project being constructed and operated as proposed, as well as future production, oil prices, investment and market conditions.

What does the national-interest designation actually do?

This is perhaps the most important part of today's announcement.

Being designated a Project of National Interest does not mean construction can begin immediately.

Instead, the designation is intended to streamline the federal review process and coordinate regulatory requirements.

The Major Projects Office and federal regulators will work toward establishing the conditions that would have to be satisfied before the project can move into construction.

Alberta's government says construction could begin as early as September 1, 2027, but only after the required consultations, approvals, permits and conditions have been completed.

So, in simple terms:

National-interest designation: YES

Construction approval: NO

Regulatory and environmental work: ONGOING

Indigenous consultation: ONGOING

Final project conditions: NOT YET ESTABLISHED

Indigenous participation

Indigenous participation is another major component of the proposal.

The federal and Alberta governments have committed to offering Indigenous communities a minimum 10% ownership interest in the project, supported through federal and provincial loan-guarantee programs.

However, today's announcement does not end consultation.

The federal Order in Council records that Indigenous communities consulted during the designation process expressed a range of concerns, including the need for more detailed information about routing, engineering, environmental impacts, marine infrastructure and mitigation measures.

That means Indigenous consultation and rights remain an important part of the process ahead.

What could this mean for British Columbia?

Although much of the discussion surrounding Pacific Link has focused on Alberta's energy sector, the proposed project would have a direct connection to British Columbia.

The proposed terminal would be located near Delta, meaning the Lower Mainland would be part of the infrastructure story.

Potential areas of interest include:

Infrastructure:
A project of this scale would involve pipelines, pumping facilities, terminals, marine infrastructure and supporting transportation and electrical infrastructure.

Employment and investment:
Construction and related economic activity could extend well beyond Alberta.

Trade:
A West Coast export terminal could provide Canadian producers with greater access to international markets.

Environment and marine safety:
The project will require detailed assessment of environmental effects, construction impacts, marine transportation and spill prevention and response.

Indigenous rights and participation:
Consultation and potential ownership arrangements will continue to be central to the project.

These are among the issues that will need to be addressed before the project can move toward construction.

A project with a long road ahead

Today's announcement represents a major change in the status of the proposed Pacific Link Pipeline—but it is still only one stage in a much larger process.

The project must still address regulatory requirements, environmental safeguards, Indigenous consultation, financing, engineering and other conditions before construction can proceed.

The federal government is targeting September 1, 2027 for the conditions document that would establish the requirements for moving forward.

If those requirements are satisfied, construction could potentially begin after that point.

Why this matters beyond the energy sector

For Canada, Pacific Link represents more than another pipeline proposal.

It touches on several larger questions facing the country:

How can Canada diversify its export markets?

How should major infrastructure projects balance economic development with environmental protection?

What role should Indigenous ownership and participation play in nation-building projects?

How can Canada attract the capital required for major infrastructure?

And for British Columbia, there is an additional question:

What does a major new energy export connection through southern B.C. mean for the Lower Mainland and the communities along the proposed corridor?

Those questions will become increasingly important as the project moves through the next stage.

The bottom line

The Pacific Link Pipeline has now received Canada's Project of National Interest designation and entered a more coordinated federal review process.

It is a proposed 1,250-kilometre pipeline, designed to transport approximately one million barrels of oil per day from Alberta to an export terminal near Delta, B.C.

But today's announcement is not construction approval.

The next year will be critical as governments, regulators, Indigenous communities, industry and other stakeholders work through the project's environmental, economic, regulatory and infrastructure requirements.

For Alberta, British Columbia and Canada as a whole, Pacific Link is a development worth watching.

The next major milestone is September 1, 2027

#Canada #PacificLink #Alberta #BritishColumbia #Energy #Infrastructure #CanadianEconomy #EnergySecurity #Pipeline #DeltaBC