The wait is almost over — after decades of conversation and several years of construction, the long-awaited Pattullo Bridge Replacement Project is nearing completion. On December 25, 2025, Metro Vancouver residents will officially welcome a safer, modern bridge across the Fraser River.

🚧 Why Replace the Pattullo Bridge?

Opened in 1937, the current Pattullo Bridge has long been considered functionally obsolete:

• Narrow lanes without separation

• Seismic vulnerability

• High crash rates

• Lack of safe pedestrian or cycling access

At 88 years old, it’s past its lifespan, and a new bridge has been badly needed.

🌉 Key Features of the New Bridge

• Four wide lanes (10% wider than before)

• Centre median to separate traffic

• Pedestrian & cyclist pathways with protective barriers

• Improved roadway connections on both sides of the Fraser

• Future expansion ready — the design allows for up to six lanes if demand, funding, and community approvals align.

🚦 Why Only Four Lanes for Now?

While many commuters, particularly in Surrey, argue for a six-lane crossing immediately, there are important reasons for starting with four:

1. Road Network Constraints – On the New Westminster side, streets like McBride Boulevard, East Columbia Street, and Royal Avenue cannot accommodate six continuous lanes without major expansion that would cut through neighborhoods.

2. Bottleneck Concerns – Six lanes on the bridge would still funnel into four-lane roads on either end, shifting congestion into city streets.

3. Future-Proofing – The bridge is designed with the structural capacity to expand, should the need arise.

This phased, cautious approach balances current demand with community impacts.

🌀 The Four Opening Phases

The opening will not be a simple ribbon-cutting. Instead, the new Pattullo will launch in four stages to carefully integrate with the road network:

Phase 1 – The new bridge partially opens; the Royal Avenue southbound on-ramp remains closed.
Phase 2 – A full closure for about a week, with no bridge crossing while final tie-ins at McBride and King George are completed.
Phase 3 – Traffic split: northbound shifts entirely to the new bridge, while some southbound traffic continues on the old bridge.
Phase 4 – All traffic moves onto the new bridge. The old bridge will close and eventually be removed.

🌿 A New Identity

Beyond its structural upgrades, the new bridge will also receive a new Indigenous name in hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓, chosen in collaboration with the Musqueam and Kwantlen First Nations. The name is expected to be announced in the coming months, symbolizing respect for the land and history of the area.

🖼️ Community Enhancements

The project includes a new public art installation beneath the Highway 17–Old Yale Road overpass, as well as better pedestrian and cycling connections in both Surrey and New Westminster.

📅 What’s Next?

December 25, 2025, won’t just mark a holiday — it will mark the beginning of a new chapter for Metro Vancouver commuters. While the debate over four vs. six lanes will continue, one thing is certain: the new Pattullo Bridge will provide a safer, more reliable connection across the Fraser River for generations to come.

👩‍💼
Big changes like new infrastructure often influence local real estate trends.  Whether you’re considering upsizing, downsizing, or making your first move, let’s chat about how today’s market is shifting.

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

#PattulloBridge #PattulloReplacement #BridgeOpening #FraserRiver #McBrideBoulevard #KingGeorgeBoulevard #SurreyBC #NewWestminster #Infrastructure #BridgePhases #TransitFuture #BCTransportation #MetroVancouver #IndigenousNaming

The countdown to the FIFA World Cup 2026 is on, and excitement is building in Vancouver as the city prepares to host seven matches at BC Place. For many fans, the first big question is: what will tickets cost?

Ticket Pricing: Putting It in Perspective

FIFA has officially opened the first phases of ticket sales, with pricing divided into four categories. For Vancouver matches, here’s a look at the approximate ranges (in Canadian dollars):

• Category 1: ~$662

• Category 2: ~$495

• Category 3: ~$230

• Category 4: ~$230

For Canada’s opening match in Toronto — the country’s debut on home soil — tickets are understandably higher:

• Category 1: ~$2,434

• Category 2: ~$1,730

• Category 3: ~$997

• Category 4: ~$495

At first glance, these numbers may feel steep, but when compared to other major sporting or entertainment events, they’re not unusual. Courtside seats at an NBA game, front-row tickets to the Stanley Cup Finals, or VIP access at a sold-out concert often carry a similar premium. As with most major events, the top-tier tickets are aimed at the elite, while lower categories give everyday fans a chance to be part of the magic.

How to Secure Tickets

There are two primary paths for fans in Canada to purchase tickets:

1. FIFA Ticketing Portal

   • Fans must register for a FIFA Ticketing Account. Tickets are released through lotteries, presales, and eventually, first-come-first-served phases.

   • FIFA Ticketing:  https://www.fifa.com/en/tournaments/mens/worldcup/canadamexicousa2026/tickets

2. CanadaRED Membership

   • Canada Soccer offers its CanadaRED membership program, which provides weighted access to World Cup tickets. Higher membership tiers give better odds in ticket draws.

   • CanadaRED:  https://canadared.canadasoccer.com/

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity

For soccer fans in Vancouver — and across Canada — the World Cup is about more than just a ticket price. It’s a historic, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the world’s biggest sporting event unfold in our own backyard. Whether you’re in the upper bowl or sitting pitch-side, the atmosphere will be unforgettable.

Yes, the top tiers come with a hefty price tag, but so do the most exclusive seats at any major sporting event. The important takeaway? There are still accessible options for fans who want to experience the excitement live.

Final Thoughts

The FIFA World Cup is unlike any other sporting spectacle, and Vancouver will be at the heart of it in 2026. Whether you’re a die hard supporter or just looking to soak in the atmosphere, now is the time to register, plan, and be ready when ticket windows open.

🎟️ FIFA World Cup 2026 Tickets - https://www.fifa.com/en/tournaments/mens/worldcup/canadamexicousa2026/tickets

🎟️ CanadaRED Membership - https://canadared.canadasoccer.com/

#WorldCup2026 #Vancouver #FIFA #BCPlace #SoccerFans #CanadaSoccer #SoccerCulture #VancouverEvents #SoccerLife #FootyFans #VancouverBC #FIFAWorldCup #VancouverSoccer #SoccerCommunity #TicketInfo #CanadaRED #SoccerLove #TheBeautifulGame #FIFA2026Tickets

🧡 September 30 is recognized as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day. While my work is in real estate, I believe it’s important that we as a community take time to understand and reflect on the true history of the land we live, work, and raise our families on.

The Land Before Settlement

For thousands of years, what we now call British Columbia was home to thriving Nations including Coast Salish, Nuu-chah-nulth, Kwakwakaʼwakw, Haida, Tsimshian, Gitxsan, Nisga’a, Secwépemc, Tsilhqot’in, Dakelh, Wet’suwet’en, and many more. 🌿 These Nations cared for and governed the land long before settlers arrived.

Early Contact and Colonization

European contact began in the late 1700s, with Captain James Cook and George Vancouver. By the mid-1800s, colonies were established, and the gold rush brought settlers who displaced Indigenous peoples from their homelands. ⚓

Land Dispossession and Reserves

In the 1860s, colonial officials such as Joseph Trutch reduced reserve sizes and denied Indigenous land title. Nations were forced onto small reserves, often on poor land, with limited access to resources. Conditions were restrictive and harsh. 🏞

Federal Control and the Indian Act

In 1876, the Indian Act gave the federal government sweeping control over Indigenous peoples. It determined who was legally recognized as “Indian,” controlled governance, and enforced assimilationist policies. 📜

Churches and Residential Schools

Churches, funded by the federal government, ran Residential Schools with the purpose of assimilating Indigenous children. Children were removed from their families, forbidden to speak their languages, and subjected to abuse. Schools in BC such as Kamloops, Alberni, and Kuper Island became infamous for these practices. ✝️

Deaths and Unmarked Graves

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) confirmed over 3,200 deaths of children in residential schools. In 2021, ground-penetrating radar at the Kamloops Indian Residential School revealed 215 probable burial sites, confirming what Survivors had always shared. 🕯

Closing of the Schools

Residential Schools in BC operated for nearly 100 years. The last federally run school in the province closed in 1984, but the impact continues through intergenerational trauma.

Apologies and Steps Toward Change

In 2008, the Government of Canada issued a formal apology. In 2019, BC passed the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act, committing to align provincial laws with the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. In 2023, September 30 became a statutory holiday in BC. 🇨🇦

Why This Matters in Our Communities

As someone who helps people find homes, I believe it is important to understand the truth about the land we live on. Reconciliation is about more than a single day. It is about remembering, acknowledging history, and supporting healing and change.

🧡 Let us honour Survivors, remember the children who never came home, and commit to keeping the truth alive. 🧡

#TruthAndReconciliation #OrangeShirtDay #EveryChildMatters #BC #IndigenousHistory #CommunityMatters

Despite all the talk of a Canadian housing market “crash,” the data tells a very different story depending on where you look. According to the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA), the national benchmark home price fell to $686,800 in August 2025, down 19.4% (-$164,800) from the peak. But this steep drop is almost entirely due to what’s happening in Ontario and British Columbia. The rest of the country? Still hovering near record highs.

Record Highs Across Most Provinces

Looking beyond Canada’s two most expensive provinces reveals surprising resilience.

• Newfoundland, a small market with fewer sales than Saskatoon, just set a fresh record high in August.

• In total, 8 out of 10 provinces hit all-time highs within the past year, and 6 of those reached records in just the past quarter.

• Provinces like Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Alberta, and the Atlantic region have only seen tiny declines, ranging from -0.13% to -1.97% from their peaks.

This hardly looks like a widespread crash—if anything, it shows that most provinces have only slowed in sales activity, not prices.

Ontario’s Steep Correction

Ontario has experienced the sharpest reversal in the country.

• From March 2020, when interest rates were slashed, to February 2022, Ontario home prices soared 59.9% (+$396,500).

• Since then, prices have dropped 25.6% (-$271,200).

• Even after that correction, prices remain 18.9% (+$125,300) above pre-rate cut levels—meaning affordability is still stretched.

Ontario’s market shows just how sensitive expensive real estate can be to changes in interest rates.

BC’s Market: Stickier, But Still Correcting

Here in British Columbia, the correction has been more modest.

• Prices jumped 51.6% (+$364,600) between March 2020 and April 2022.

• Since the peak, they’ve slipped 12.0% (-$128,800), bringing the benchmark to $942,800 in August 2025.

That’s about half the correction Ontario has seen, which highlights how “sticky” BC’s market continues to be—even with higher rates weighing on buyers.

The Real Driver: Cheap Credit, Not Population Growth

So, what’s really behind the changes? It’s not just immigration or slowing population growth.

The true driver has been cheap credit. Lower interest rates during the pandemic fuelled massive borrowing, especially in expensive markets like Ontario and BC. Immigration and interprovincial migration helped add pressure, but ultimately, interest rates determined just how far buyers could stretch themselves.

This is why Ontario and BC corrected so sharply when borrowing costs climbed—while the rest of the country, with lower price points, continues to hold steady.

Bubble Contagion and Interprovincial Migration

Another trend worth noting is “bubble contagion.” Buyers leaving frothy markets like Toronto and Vancouver often look to other provinces, rationalizing higher prices elsewhere.

For example, the condo discount in Halifax versus Toronto shrank from 50% in 2020 to less than 20% in August 2025. That gap illustrates how demand and pricing pressures spill over across provinces, even when local fundamentals might not fully support it.

What It Means For Buyers and Sellers

Ontario and BC are correcting, while other provinces continue to hit new highs. The big question: are those markets immune, or just late to the downturn?

For buyers and sellers in BC, the takeaway is clear—our market remains resilient, but it’s not immune to rate pressures. Understanding these dynamics is key to making smart real estate decisions in today’s climate.

Let’s Chat About Your Next Move

Whether you’re considering upsizing, downsizing, or making your first move, let’s chat about your options and how today’s economic trends may affect your buying or selling strategy.

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

#CanadianRealEstate #BCRealEstate #HousingMarketUpdate #CREA #OntarioRealEstate #BCMarket #HomePricesCanada #RealEstateTrends #BuyingInBC #SellingInBC #TaraKennedyRealtor #TaraKennedy #HomeSweetHome #CREA #HousingBubble #AlbertaRealEstate #RoyalLepageEliteWest #InterprovincialMigration

The holiday season just got brighter for Surrey residents! After more than 25 years dazzling visitors in Vancouver’s Stanley Park, the beloved Bright Nights holiday light show is officially coming back home to Surrey. Even better, it will be bigger and more magical than ever.

A Surrey Tradition Comes Full Circle

Bright Nights has deep roots in Surrey. Back in the mid-1980s, residents Bob Wingfield and Marg Barrett created an elaborate Christmas light display at their Newton home. With the help of local firefighters, the tradition grew and eventually became part of the BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund, raising funds for burn survivors across the province.

In 1997, their lights were donated to the Burn Fund and became the heart of the Bright Nights in Stanley Park display. Now, decades later, the tradition is returning to where it all began.

As Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke put it: “This started in Surrey, and it is coming back home.”

The Festival Details

This year, Bright Nights will be featured as part of the Noel Holiday Light Festival at the Cloverdale Fairgrounds (Bill Reid Millennium Amphitheatre) from November 28 to December 28, 2025.

Here’s what visitors can look forward to:

• 🎇 Over 3 million dazzling holiday lights along an accessible walking path around the pond

• 🎡 A 50-foot Ferris wheel lighting up the skyline

• 🎁 An expanded Christmas market filled with festive treats and treasures

• 💖 Proceeds supporting the BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund, helping burn survivors across B.C.

With more space to accommodate guests, Cloverdale offers the perfect setting for families, couples, and friends to celebrate the magic of the season.

Vancouver’s Loss, Surrey’s Gain

In past years, Bright Nights in Stanley Park featured a popular miniature train ride through the forest. Unfortunately, the train was recently deemed inoperable, prompting organizers to look for a new home. Surrey’s Cloverdale Fairgrounds was the perfect fit.

While Stanley Park will now host a new “Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience,” Surrey residents (and visitors from across the Lower Mainland) can celebrate the return of an event that truly belongs here.

Plan Your Visit

Bright Nights will run November 28 – December 28 at the Cloverdale Fairgrounds. Tickets are now available, and timed entry is required.

🎟 Get your tickets here 👉 www.noelfestival.com

✨ This holiday season, come be part of Surrey’s brightest tradition. Stroll under millions of sparkling lights, ride the Ferris wheel, shop the Christmas market, and help support a wonderful cause. ✨. Experience Bright Nights in Surrey Nov 28–Dec 28 at Cloverdale Fairgrounds! Millions of lights, Ferris wheel, market & family fun for a great cause. ✨

#BrightNightsSurrey #NoelFestival #SurreyEvents #HolidayLights #CloverdaleFairgrounds #ChristmasInSurrey #WinterFestival #FamilyFunBC #ChristmasMarket #SurreyBC #FraserValleyEvents #HolidayMagic #LightFestival #ThingsToDoInSurrey #SupportLocal

On September 17, 2025, the Bank of Canada announced a 0.25% cut to its key policy rate, bringing the overnight rate down to 2.50%. This marks the first rate cut in six months and the lowest rate in three years. For homeowners and prospective buyers, this could have important implications, depending on the type of mortgage you hold.

What This Means for Your Mortgage

With the prime lending rate now at 4.70%, here’s how different mortgage types are affected:

💸 Adjustable-Rate Mortgages (ARMs)

If you have an adjustable-rate mortgage, your interest rate is directly tied to the prime rate. With the recent decrease, your monthly payment could drop by approximately $13 per $100,000 owed. This can provide immediate relief on your monthly budget.

🏦 Fixed-Payment Variable Mortgages

For fixed-payment variable mortgages, your monthly payment remains unchanged, but more of it will now go toward reducing the principal. Over time, this means you pay down your mortgage faster and build equity sooner.

📊 Fixed-Rate Mortgages

Fixed-rate mortgages are not directly affected by the Bank of Canada’s policy rate. Instead, they are influenced by bond yields, which represent the return investors require for lending money over time. If bond yields decrease, future fixed rates may also decline, but existing fixed-rate mortgages remain the same.

✨ Economic Context

The Bank of Canada’s decision was influenced by several factors:

• Economic slowdown: Canada’s GDP contracted by 1.6% in Q2 2025.

• Labour market: Unemployment rose to 7.1% in August, the highest level in nine years outside of the pandemic.

• Inflation trends: Core inflation remains near the upper end of the Bank’s target range but is projected to ease, helped by the removal of Canadian retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods.

📌 Key Takeaways

1. Adjustable-rate mortgage holders may see immediate savings.

2. Fixed-payment variable holders won’t see a change in payments, but your principal will grow faster.

3. Fixed-rate mortgage holders are unaffected for now, but future fixed rates may benefit from falling bond yields.

4. Economic trends and inflation remain important to watch as they influence future rate decisions.

Contact Me for Real Estate Guidance

If you’re wondering how this rate cut could impact your home buying or selling plans, I can help you navigate the current market and make informed decisions. Whether you’re looking to buy your next home, sell your current property, or explore your options, I can provide the insights you need to take advantage of today’s market conditions.

📱 Tara Kennedy ~ REALTOR
📞 236-992-8989
🌐 TaraKennedy.ca

#BankOfCanada #PrimeRate #MortgageTips #HomeOwnership #VariableMortgage #FixedMortgage #BCRealEstate #FinancialPlanning #MortgageSavings #InvestInYourHome #TaraKennedyREALTOR #CanadaRealEstate #HomeFinance #MortgageUpdate #InterestRateCut

The Metro Vancouver real estate market is showing signs of a gradual recovery. With easing home prices and more buyers stepping off the sidelines, now is a great time to understand the latest trends. Whether you’re planning to buy, sell, or stay informed, here’s a detailed look at the August 2025 market.

📈 Overall Market Activity in August 2025

Key metrics for August 2025 highlight renewed activity across the region:

• 🏠 Total home sales: 1,959 — up 2.9% compared to August 2024

• 📋 New listings: 4,225 — slightly ahead of last year and on par with the 10-year seasonal average

• 📍 Active listings: 16,242 — a significant increase from last year and well above the long-term average

Insight: Increased sales activity suggests more buyers are entering the market while listings remain healthy. This could be the perfect window to make a move.

🏘️ Sales by Property Type

🏡 Detached Homes

• 📈 Sales increased ~13% year-over-year

• 💲 Benchmark price: ~$1,950,300

• ⬇️ Down ~4.8% from last year and slightly lower than July

🏠 Attached Homes / Townhouses

• 📈 Sales rose ~10.5%

• 💲 Benchmark price: just over $1,079,600

• ⬇️ Down ~3.5% year-over-year

🏢 Apartments / Condos

• 📉 Sales slipped ~5.5% compared to August 2024

• 💲 Benchmark price: ~$734,400

• ⬇️ Down ~4.4% year-over-year

Insight: Buyers are returning to higher-priced detached and attached homes, while apartment sales remain slightly slower.

⚖️ Market Balance & What It Means

The sales-to-active listings ratio is a key indicator of market balance:

• 📊 All property types: 12.4%

• 🏡 Detached homes: ~9.3%

• 🏠 Attached homes: ~15.8%

• 🏢 Apartments: ~14%

Market implications:

• 📉 Ratio <12% → downward pressure on prices

• 📈 Ratio >20% → upward pressure on prices

• 🗝️ Currently, buyers hold meaningful leverage

💲 Price trends:

• Prices have eased ~2% since the start of the year

• Month-over-month, prices dropped ~1% from July to August

• Sellers are adjusting expectations, creating more opportunities for buyers

🔍 Spotlight & Key Trends

• 💼 Higher-end buyers are returning to detached and attached homes

• 📊 Rising sales may gradually reduce available inventory

• ⏳ Buyer-friendly market conditions may not last long

• 📈 If ratios climb toward 20%, sellers could regain leverage, pushing prices upward

Takeaway: Timing is critical. Acting before inventory tightens or prices shift can provide a competitive advantage.

✨ What This Means for Buyers & Sellers

• 🏘️ If you’re thinking of buying or selling, now may be a sweet spot

• 📊 Understanding neighbourhood specific trends can provide a competitive edge

• 🤝 Partnering with an experienced REALTOR® ensures you navigate the market confidently

📞 Contact Tara Kennedy – REALTOR®

• 📱 236-992-8989

• 📧 TaraKennedySells@gmail.com

• 🌐 www.TaraKennedy.ca

Stay informed, make smart real estate decisions, and take advantage of current market opportunities!

#MetroVancouverRealEstate #HousingMarket #VancouverHomes #BCRealEstate #BuyersMarket #HomePrices #DetachedHomes #Townhouses #Condos #RealEstateTrends #PropertyUpdate #PortCoquitlamRealEstate #PortMoodyRealEstate #CoquitlamRealEstate #PittMeadowsRealEstate #MapleRidgeRealEstate #GVR #NewWestminsterRealEstate #TaraKennedy #TaraKennedyRealEstate #TaraKennedyRealtor #HomeSweetHome #RoyalLepageEliteWest #RLP #GVRAugustStats #CoquitlamRealtor #PortCoquitlamRealtor #PortMoodyRealtor #PittMeadowsRealtor #MapleRidgeRealtor #NewWestminsterRealtor #BurnabyRealtor 

Travelling internationally is one of life’s greatest adventures. Whether you’re exploring sun-soaked beaches, navigating the busy streets of a foreign city, or heading overseas for work, safety should always be part of your plan. One of the simplest and smartest steps Canadians can take before leaving the country is to sign up for ROCA – the Registration of Canadians Abroad.

✈️ What is ROCA?

ROCA is a free and confidential service provided by the Government of Canada. It’s designed to keep Canadians informed and connected while outside the country.

By registering, you ensure that Canadian officials can reach you in case of:

• Emergencies at your destination such as natural disasters, civil unrest, or health crises

• Personal emergencies back home when family needs to get in touch urgently

• Travel advisories and updates that could impact your safety abroad

📆 How to Register

The process is quick and convenient:

• Register before you leave Canada, or even once you’re already abroad

• Sign up online (you can also register family members or travel groups)

• Travelling to multiple destinations? You can register all of them at once

🔐 Privacy & Security You Can Trust

Many travellers hesitate to share personal information online—but with ROCA, your data is secure:

• All information is protected under Canada’s Privacy Act

• Registration details are automatically deleted 12 months after your return (or earlier if you register again for a new trip)

💡 Why ROCA is Worth It

When you’re far from home, peace of mind is priceless. Emergencies can strike without warning, and ROCA ensures you’re never left without support. From major events like earthquakes or political unrest, to unexpected family emergencies, this service ensures you’re reachable and informed when it matters most.

👉 Ready to Register?

Don’t wait until you’re at the airport. Take two minutes today to set yourself up for safer, smarter travel.

🔗 Register for ROCA here

✨ As a local realtor who also loves exploring the world, I believe in travelling safe and smart. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or an extended stay abroad, registering with ROCA is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself and your loved ones.

📞 If you’d like more tips for safe travel or if you’re looking to buy or sell a home here in the Tri-Cities I would be happy to help.

Tara Kennedy – REALTOR®
📧 TaraKennedySells@gmail.com
📱 236-992-8989

#TravelSmart #CanadaAbroad #SafeTravels #CanadianTravelers #PeaceOfMind #ROCA #RegistrationOfCanadiansAbroad #TravelSafety #StaySafeAbroad #CanadiansTravel #TravelCanada #TravelPreparedness #EmergencyPreparedness #TravelTips #GlobalTravel #CanadianTravelers #InternationalTravel #TravelAlert #TravelSupport #PeaceOfMindTravel #StayConnectedAbroad

In 2017, Vancouver became the first city in Canada to implement an empty homes tax, aiming to address the housing crisis by encouraging owners of vacant properties to rent or sell. The tax rate was initially set at 1% and increased to 3% in 2021. Proceeds from the tax have been allocated to various affordable housing initiatives, with a 2024 city report stating that $170 million raised by the tax has already been allocated to these initiatives.

📉 Impact on Vacant Homes

Since the implementation of the empty homes tax, the number of vacant homes in Vancouver has decreased significantly. The 2023 vacancy reference year declared vacant rate was 0.54%, the lowest since the inception of the tax. This indicates a continued downward trend in vacant homes, aligning with the goals of the empty homes tax program. City of Vancouver

💰 Revenue Allocation

Since the inception of the empty homes tax, $169.8 million has been allocated to support a variety of affordable housing initiatives. These funds are used to support the delivery of new social, supportive, and non-profit co-op housing through the City's Community Housing Incentive Program (CHIP) and acquisition of new land for housing.

🏛️ Proposed Changes by Councillor Sean Orr

COPE Councillor Sean Orr plans to introduce a motion at the next city council meeting aiming to increase the rate of the empty homes tax and end the exemption for unsold new units. Orr argues that these changes reduce the incentive for owners to sell or rent out empty homes and decrease the funds available for affordable housing.

If you're interested in learning more about the empty homes tax and its impact on Vancouver's housing market, feel free to contact me.

✨ Tara Kennedy

💼 REALTOR, ABR, SRS, RENE

📞 Phone: 236-992-8989

📧 Email: TaraKennedySells@gmail.com

🌐 Website: TaraKennedy.ca

Let's work together to ensure that Vancouver remains a city where everyone has a place to call home.

#VancouverHousing #EmptyHomesTax #AffordableHousing #VancouverRealEstate #HousingCrisis #CommunityHousing #VancouverCityCouncil #SeanOrr #VancouverBC #RealEstateVancouver #HousingPolicy #VancouverLiving #SupportAffordableHousing #VancouverNews #HousingInitiatives #VancouverCommunity

Navigating real estate in BC just got clearer! The new REALTORS® Disclosure of Material Latent Defects (MLD) Form is here — and while the disclosure duty hasn’t changed, how we document it has. This blog will break down the latest guidance and how to best protect yourself and your clients. ⬇️✨

💡 Why the Change Matters

While the disclosure obligation remains unchanged — licensees must disclose all known material latent defects — the revised form is a refreshed tool to help REALTORS® meet their legal and ethical duties under Section 59 of the Real Estate Services Rules, the REALTOR® Code, and BCFSA/BCREA guidelines.

📏 Legal & Ethical Duties at a Glance

• Section 59(2): If you know of an MLD, you must disclose it in writing to all parties before any sale agreement is signed — separate from the purchase contract.

• Section 59(3): If the seller instructs you not to disclose, you must withdraw from providing trading services.

• REALTOR® Code (Article 4): REALTORS® must discover and disclose all facts that materially impact a transaction — visible or not — including condition, risks, hazards, and past use.

You don’t need to act like an inspector — but ignoring red flags isn’t an option. Asking the right questions and doing reasonable research is key to fulfilling your duty.

🛠 What Counts as a Material Latent Defect?

A material latent defect is something not apparent through reasonable inspection, such as:

• Safety hazards or unfit-for-purpose conditions 🚫

• Issues requiring major repair costs 💰

• Local authority notices or unapproved renovations 🏗

• Missing building permits 📂

Examples: water ingress 💧, structural damage 🏚, unpermitted additions, underground tanks ⛽, high radon levels ☢, or no permit history.

📄 Form Essentials: When & How to Use It

New Form Highlights:

• Formerly known as the “Seller’s Disclosure of Material Latent Defects,” now the REALTORS®’ Disclosure of Material Latent Defects Form — highlighting that disclosure is the REALTOR®’s responsibility.

• Includes a seller acknowledgment, confirming their understanding and authorizing disclosure where required.

When to use it:

🛡 Best Practices & Risk Management

• Always document your due diligence: seller communications, permit checks, FOI requests, inspection notes.

• Retain all disclosures — PDS, MLD form, seller conversations — in your brokerage file.

• Remember: Signatures don’t shift responsibility. Overlooking obvious risks, even after signing, can lead to discipline or liability.

📌 Quick Takeaways for REALTORS®

1. 📜 Disclosure duty hasn’t changed — but documentation tools have.

2. 🛠 Use the new form as both protection and professionalism.

3. 🔍 Investigate diligently and keep records.

4. ✅ The form is proof of integrity and accountability.

📲 Ready to Talk MLDs? Let’s Connect!

Your clients deserve clarity and protection, and you deserve confidence. Whether you're a seller navigating your responsibilities or a buyer curious about what’s hidden, I'm here to help.

Tara Kennedy – REALTOR®
📞 236-992-8989
📧 TaraKennedySells@gmail.com
🌐 www.TaraKennedy.ca

Let’s make your next transaction transparent, compliant, and stress-free. 💬✨

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Homebuyers and sellers in Metro Vancouver are watching closely: July 2025 brings encouraging signs of a market recovery.

✨ Key Highlights:

• Residential sales on the MLS® reached 2,286 units in July 2025, just a 2% decline from 2,333 in July 2024—a notably tight gap compared to earlier in the year.

• Still 13.9% below the 10-year seasonal average of 2,656.

• 5,642 properties were newly listed in July 2025—slightly up 0.8% year-over-year and 12.4% above the 10-year average of 5,018.

• Total active listings stood at 17,168, up 19.8% year-over-year and a hefty 40.2% above the 10-year seasonal norm of 12,249.

📊 Sales-to-Active Listings Ratio & Market Balance

Despite the slowdown earlier this year, the sales-to-active listings ratio for July sits at 13.8%, with breakdowns by property type:

• 🏠 Detached homes: 10.2%

• 🏘 Attached homes (townhouses): 16.7%

• 🏢 Apartments: 15.9%

Historically, ratios below 12% suggest downward pressure on prices, while sustained ratios above 20% indicate upward pressure. At 13.8%, the market is in a balanced zone—favorable for buyers, although continued sales recovery could tighten conditions.

💰 Benchmark Price Trends

The MLS® Home Price Index composite benchmark for all residential properties in Metro Vancouver is $1,165,300, marking a 2.7% decrease year-over-year and 0.7% month-over-month decline from June.

By property type:

• 🏡 Detached homes: $1,974,400 — down 3.6% YoY and 1% MoM.

• 🏢 Apartments: $743,700 — down 3.2% YoY and 0.6% MoM.

• 🏘 Townhouses: $1,099,200 — down 2.3% YoY and 0.4% MoM.

🔍 What the Data Means for You

For Buyers:

• ✅ Conditions remain favorable—plenty of choice and balanced pricing.

• 🕒 Still time to negotiate, inspect, and benefit from the current supply.

For Sellers:

• 📈 A possible uptick in buyer activity may gradually shift leverage.

• 🎯 Pricing and presentation will be crucial to stand out as competition persists.

Economic Outlook:
With the Bank of Canada holding interest rates steady in July, borrowing cost stability may boost confidence—particularly during ongoing economic uncertainties.

📋 Summary Table

📞 Stay Informed — Let’s Talk About Your Real Estate Goals!

Whether you're navigating the market as a buyer or seller, it’s all about timing, local insight, and strategy.

Contact me today for personalized guidance:
Tara Kennedy – REALTOR®
📱 236-992-8989
📧 TaraKennedySells@gmail.com
🌐 www.TaraKennedy.ca

#MetroVancouverRealEstate #VancouverHousingMarket #MLSStatsJuly2025 #HomeSalesRecovery #HousingInventory #RealEstateUpdate #BuyerMarket #SellerStrategy #VancouverHomes #CoquitlamRealEstate #PortCoquitlam #PortMoodyHomes

The Farmers’ Almanac has released its extended forecast for Winter 2025–2026, and the verdict is in — this will be “a winter to remember”. From British Columbia’s rainy coastlines to Atlantic Canada’s blizzard-prone shores, Canadians can expect a return to the traditional winter patterns we know all too well: deep freezes, heavy snow, and powerful storms.

Let’s break it down region by region, starting in the west.

British Columbia 🌲❄️

Winter in BC will bring average temperatures and precipitation overall — but don’t be fooled by the word “average.”

• Coastal BC: Expect a wintry mix with torrential rain, high winds, occasional thaws, and local flooding during strong storms.

• Interior BC: Pacific storms will drop heavy snow, making ski resorts very happy.

• Southern BC: Brief warm spells in February and early March will bring mild weather, but rain and wind will dominate.

It’s a winter that will keep snow lovers happy in the mountains while rain gear is a must along the coast.

The Prairies – Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba 🌾🥶

The Prairies are in for a very cold winter with above-average snowfall. Arctic air is expected to dominate in January and February, bringing:

• Prolonged deep freezes with dangerous wind chills

• Whiteouts and blizzards from fast-moving weather systems

• Plenty of Alberta Clippers — quick, powerful winter storms that form in Alberta and race southeast, bringing bursts of snow, strong winds, and a blast of Arctic cold behind them. Even when snowfall totals are low, blowing snow can make it feel like a full-on blizzard.

Ontario 🍁🌨

Winter in Ontario will be cold with above-average snowfall.

• Southern Ontario: Expect more variability with occasional thaws, but also sharp cold snaps.

• Frequent snowstorms and lake-effect snow will keep shovels working overtime.

• Icy roads and sidewalks will be a common challenge.

Quebec 🦌❄️

A cold and snowy season lies ahead.

• Northern Quebec: Deep freezes and dangerous wind chills thanks to Arctic air masses.

• Southern Quebec: Occasional thaws will break up cold snaps, but late January and February could bring multiple blizzards and nor’easters.

Atlantic Canada 🌊☃️

Bundle up and keep the snowblower ready — Atlantic provinces will see a cold, wet, and snowy season.

• Nova Scotia & PEI: Frequent rain-snow mixes with coastal flooding during strong storms.

• Newfoundland & Labrador: Multiple blizzards in January and February will make for challenging travel and storm-watching opportunities.

Month-by-Month Highlights 📅

• Late December 2025: Unsettled weather — snow and sleet in the East, mixed conditions in the West.

• January 2026: Stormy and frigid from coast to coast. Arctic blasts for the East, blizzards in the Prairies, rain/snow mix in BC.

• February 2026: Widespread snowstorms, deep freezes, and more blizzards in Ontario and the Prairies.

• March 2026: A transitional month — cold lingers in the North and East, while milder air and rain push in from the West, along with late-season snowstorms.

Final Word 🌟

From coast to coast, Winter 2025–2026 will deliver classic Canadian conditions — the kind that make you both love and dread the season. Whether you’re a skier, a snow-shoveler, or just a cocoa drinker, be prepared for a season full of variety and extremes.

And if your winter plans include moving into a new home, selling your current property, or finding that perfect cozy space before the snow flies again, I’d be happy to help you navigate the market — no snow tires required.

If your plans for this winter include buying a new home, upgrading to something cozier, or selling your property before spring, I’m here to help you navigate the real estate market with confidence — snow or shine.

📍 Tara Kennedy
REALTOR®
📞 236-992-8989
📧 TaraKennedySells@gmail.com
🌐 www.TaraKennedy.ca

#FarmersAlmanac #WinterForecast2025 #CanadianWinter #SnowDay #BCRealEstate #PrairieWeather #Snowstorms #DeepFreeze #Blizzards #AlbertaClippers #BCHomes #PrairieLife #WinterWeatherCanada #CanadianRealEstate #TricitiesRealtor #PortCoquitlam #PortMoody #Coquitlam #WinterIsComing #HomeSweetHome #BCLiving #RoyalLePageEliteWest #TaraKennedy #TaraKennedyRealtor #BCWinter