2022 EDITION
Is There No End to Growth in the Okanagan?
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Publisher Alan Monk We’re proud of our (always local!) contributing writers: David Wylie, Jude Campbell, Judie Steeves, Alan Wynne
Contents 2022 EDITION
In this Issue
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Okanagan Growing Pains: According to Statistics Canada, this valley is the fastest growing area in Canada and Kelowna alone can expect an extra 45,000 people by 2040. With that growth comes jobs and new amenities but also transportation and environmental challenges. David Wylie talks to the people that are looking at finding solutions.
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The Smooth Move Okanagan Checklist We want to help movers. Talking with people who are in the moving business, we have compiled a local moving checklist so your move is as smooth as can be hoped for.
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A Housing Boom for Boomers Only. Ever- increasing home values are great... right? UBC prof Paul Kershaw says it used to take 4 years for somebody to save up for a downpayment on a house. Now it takes 17. Something has to give.
16
Moving With Kids Moving is stressful and so we want to find ways to insulate your kids from that stress and make it fun. Judie Steeves talks to a mom that, after dozens of moves with kids, has some great advice.
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2022 EDITION the Moving Guide
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EDITORIAL
Reno Ruminations... W
hen it comes to renovations, Krista Paine, head of Ian Paine Construction in Kelowna, has done it all. She’s been involved in the family run operation for decades, and knows her way around a new-build construction site or full-on renovation. In the world of hammers and nails, Paine holds a trifecta of achievements. She’s a registered Interior Designer, project manager and Certified Red Seal carpenter; and took over management from her dad, who established the company in 1973. She also holds the distinction of being Canadian Renovator of the Year for 2020; and Okanagan Housing Excellence Renovator of the Year.
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“Trends are good, but also look for durability. You can still be creative and adventuresome.” Renovations run in her blood, and there’s been no shortage of work, especially since the pandemic, with people at home staring at four walls. If changes are on the horizon for your own home, take time to consider what kind reno will give you the “best and biggest bang for your buck.” Without hesitation, the answer is “kitchen and bath,” she said. Tom Bohna of Canada Cabinets, who has been in the business for 20 years, fully agrees. “Take a look at what kind of condition it’s in, and the functionality,” Paine said. “If you can’t open the oven and dishwasher at the same time, if it’s
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dated and dark, and it just doesn’t work for your family anymore.” “People are looking for something bright, light and beautiful,” she added. “As well as functional. White is timeless, and can be tolerated for a long time. Trends are good, but also look for durability. You can still be creative and adventuresome.” Getting to that happy place will cost. Kitchens are typically “$60-$100,000” and full-on bathrooms are not far behind. The big price tag reflects “a whole re-do,” from new flooring, new cabinets, backsplash, new appliances.” The same goes for bathroom fixtures, tubs, showers, vanity, tile and flooring. One the flip side, both Bohna and Paine noted that just a few changes can freshen up the space and make an impact. “If you’re looking at a kitchen refresh, upgrade the hardware and appliances,” Bohna said. “If the cabinets are in good shape, have a look at refinishing them instead of replacing.” “We’ve got tons of options for you to look at in the showroom, and can help you through the process,” he added.
Krista Paine, head of Ian Paine Construction in Kelowna,
BY JUDE CAMPBELL
s r a W e l yt S If you’re a dyed-in-the-wool home design style follower, you probably tune in to one (or many) TV shows that create dramatic make-overs. There’s a plethora available, with a few notable design Gurus. But who takes the cake from an award-winning renovator/ designer’s view? We put the ‘who-done-it-best’ question to Krista Paine: Question: 1.
Jonathan Scott or Scott McGillivray
2.
Chip & Joanna Gaines or Tarek el Moussa & Christina Haack
3.
Bryan Baeumler or Mike Holmes
4.
Jillian Harris or Hilary Farr
Krista’s Picks: 1. Scott M. 2. Chip & Jo. 3. Mike. 4. Hilary. Ah well, each to their own.
ReTrnoi t a v on s dne Canada Cabinets offers free design work, 3-D imaging, and will come to your home to measure the new kitchen or bath; and then supply and install. “Or, you can choose to pick up the ready-made cabinets and install it yourself,” he said. Many homeowners are toying with changes, especially when they realize how much the house has appreciated. “This has been the busiest year for renos,” Bohna added. “Without a doubt, the best return is making improvements in the kitchen and bath.” Paine agreed, adding that “just adding new handles can go a long way to making the space more attractive. ” Bohna concurs but added that design ideas and trends come and go, noting that “granite is a thing of the past, it’s all quartz, and some time ago it was espressocolor cabinets, now it’s white.” “Many people like the idea of two different colours, say,
Trends come and go, almost like the seasons. Some become classics, some are in favour for a short time. Here’s a short list of what’s currently ‘hot’ on the reno list.
white for the upper cabinets, and make lower cabinets or the island, grey or blue,” he added. Of late, Paine also noted there’s a shift towards turning bathrooms into shower-only areas, although a family with young children should still ensure there’s one tub somewhere in the home. Or going “very European” with a wet-room where a free-standing tub and rain shower ‘share’ one common space without any divider, all enclosed by one large glass door. “In the past few years, there are so few building lots left in
Kelowna, that investing in a reno has become very popular,” she said. “For many, their house has increased so much in value, they have the money, so they’re willing to make changes for their own happiness and comfort---because they can.” She cautioned that homeowners should “create a relationship” from the start with whoever they choose to do the work. “Meet with them in person (or zoom), see photos of before/after work; be sure they’re capable of designing and know how the costs of the project will be handled.” TMG
•
In kitchens, one color for upper cabinets, with a contrasting, complimentary or dramatic colour for lower cabinets. Or just a colourchange for the island.
•
Slats. On islands or as accents in and around the kitchen/ dining area; usually of wood, or wood-like in appearance; or other materials.
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Walnut tones (light not dark) on cabinets, bathroom vanities, or as accents both in kitchens and baths.
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Wet-room in the bathroom. Funky idea where tub and shower share one ‘enclosure’, one shared tiled space.
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Black fixtures. Lights, hardware, faucets.
•
Banquettes; so-so. Depends on the style.
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Kelowna is grappling with how to accommodate
45,000 more people by 2040 — Statistics Canada found the Central Okanagan is the fastest growing region in Canada.
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the Moving Guide 2022 EDITION
FEATURE
Okanagan Growing Pains Blueprint for growth
BY DAVID WYLIE
“Can growth continue? We can’t stop it I don’t think. We don’t even have the policy tools at the local government to stop it. Our job at local government is to figure out where to put it.”
I
t’s not a question of ‘if ’ the Central Okanagan grows. It’s a question of ‘how.’ Kelowna will see an influx of 45,000 people as the population booms over the next two decades. Where all those people will live, work, and play has been envisioned through the most expansive and elaborate Official Community Plan exercise in the city’s history. Timing for the blueprint couldn’t be better, as 2021 census data released in February by Statistics Canada found the Central Okanagan is the fastest growing region in Canada. The area, which stretches from Peachland to Lake Country, has a population of more than 222,000. That’s up by 14 per cent since 2016. Kelowna, where more than 142,000 people live, is projected to be home to another 45,000 people by 2040, leaving the city to grapple with its priorities. While the expansion offers more opportunities for work and the chance to build new amenities, it also comes with increasing traffic congestion and aggressive development. “We have this dilemma going where if we don’t keep the momentum going it really hurts
“We need to ensure that Kelowna is an attractive destination for all ages and abilities that has a diversity of housing and transportation options that can accommodate our diverse demographic profile.” Danielle Noble-Brandt, Policy and planning manager, Kelowna
our local economy. But it is that very momentum that is having negative impacts on things we want to sustain,” says John Janmaat, an associate professor of economics at the University of British Columbia. “Rapid growth is such an important part of our economy. If we stop growing, if we stop building, if we stop developing, we put a lot of people out of work.” Janmaat says there are powerful forces at work, including people who own land on the outskirts of the city and are pushing for their plans to go forward, with hundreds of millions of dollars on the line. Wildlife corridors are regularly
under threat by development, including those used by animals such as badgers, rattlesnakes, and other unseen creatures. “Can growth continue? We can’t stop it I don’t think. We don’t even have the policy tools at the local government to stop it. Our job at local government is to figure out where to put it,” said Janmaat. “We can put it in better places.” The city can choose less impactful development, such as higher density, without harming the economy, he said. There’s a dynamic of different players and different forces that have to be managed to develop in a more sustainable way.
John Janmaat UBC Associate Professor of Economics
“I don’t think we have a really good idea of what we’re trying to sustain when we talk about sustainability,” said Janmaat. “We haven’t really established a clear commitment that we will protect these things. We’re gradually watching things that are special about this valley being damaged and degraded. That’s the sad part about it. We’ve got a beautiful place and I really hope we come together to protect it.” Janmaat said the challenge is to change people’s minds through education. One key solution is to get serious about purchasing land or finding ways to protect it. However, nobody wants to pay. “People typically don’t vote for tax increases,” he added. “It requires a change in thinking. Urban planners have been trying to figure these things out for a long time and they’ve got really good ideas,” he said. Those ideas take into account research on parks, pathways, and common spaces, and their positive impact on mental health.” Staff at the City of Kelowna have been busy creating a blueprint that takes into account feedback from residents through 2022 EDITION the Moving Guide
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FEATURE
the Imagine Kelowna initiative, which engaged thousands of people to help shape the city’s future and lay out the Official Community Plan. It’s a strategic framework for future growth, including where housing, industrial land, commercial spaces, parks, and schools will be focused. Policy and planning manager at the city Danielle Noble-Brandt led the team, which consisted of city staff across departments, that developed the OCP. “It underscores how much our community is evolving and transitioning, and is really asking us as a city to be bold and unafraid to do things differently,” she said. “For a variety of reasons, the pandemic has catalyzed Kelowna on the international stage of attraction, lifestyle, and investment.” The planning process took over three years, and it was completed in-house by city staff. Considered the highest order
masterplan, the OCP is the roadmap for many initiatives, including 66 implementation items. Kelowna does face a number of natural challenges that limit how and where the community can grow, such as geographic constraints. Nearly half of the city falls within the Agricultural Land Reserve, which places strict limitations on what can be done on the land. There is also lots of steep terrain that can’t be built on and environmentally sensitive areas that can’t be developed. “When you take out all of those areas it really does leave a much more limited land base in which to accommodate a rapidly growing population,” she said. Kelowna’s future population will largely depend on the type of housing and density. The OCP has put an emphasis on “missing middle housing,” such as fourplexes — a style that’s in between single-
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Kelowna is an attractive destination for all ages and abilities that has a diversity of housing and transportation options that can accommodate our diverse demographic profile.” Noble-Brandt said the middle class is shrinking and increases in cost of living for housing, transportation, energy and childcare are all adding up. “For this reason, cities really need to rethink our approach to infrastructure investment, planning, and even our service delivery, recognizing that these actions could have a disproportionate impact on the quality of life for the most vulnerable,” she said. Communities across Canada have also been recognizing the threat of climate change — and how it could impact infrastructure, the environment, and biodiversity, said Noble-Brandt. The city is exploring growth
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family homes and high-rises. Aside from where to put everyone, Noble-Brandt said there are other challenges with which city staff need to wrestle, including a significant infrastructure deficit in Kelowna that will require expensive maintenance or replacement of old amenities, such as the redevelopment of Parkinson Recreation Centre. Big city problems require big city solutions. Earlier this year, Kelowna city councillors toured a number of facilities in the Lower Mainland to get a sense of their scale. Still, municipalities have to balance the cost of such expenses with the realities of changing demographics and an increasing financial equity gap. Retirement-age population will increase while young professionals are struggling with housing affordability. “We need to ensure that
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“There’s a lot of ambitious things we need to try and tackle in the very near future. We hope the community is going to continue leaning in and holding tight on to the vision as we all put it into practice.”
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that can adapt and respond to a low-carbon future. “There’s a lot of ambitious things we need to try and tackle in the very near future. We hope the community is going to continue leaning in and holding tight on to the vision as we all put it into practice,” she said. With the OCP process taking place in the middle of a pandemic, Noble-Brandt said it has to take into account some of the changes that have arisen, like whether working from home going to remain a significant factor and if that means there will be fewer cars on the road during peak periods. This is the first time an OCP has been developed in tandem with the transportation plan, recognizing that with more people comes the need for more capacity to move around. Independent transportation engineer Peter Truch said the Okanagan requires forward
thinking to head off major road congestion in the future. “While we’ve done some good things, there is a lot of room for improvement in terms of mobility both in Kelowna and across the region,” he said. “If you look at the whole Central Okanagan, there’s really one central spine that connects all of us and that’s Highway 97. It’s pretty much auto-oriented.” Strengthening communityto-community connections will be key. Truch said it’s easy to see the impact of increasing traffic in the summer when tourists are venturing through the region. “The grand differential isn’t usually that much but it’s enough to tip things over the edge. It goes from functioning to failing,” he said. “Bus transit could be dramatically expanded… thinking really long term, more of a mass transit-type system like light rail transit or trams.” Truch said a more balanced
approach is required, including focused growth in areas where the it’s convenient to get around by public transit, walking, biking, and e-scooters. “Probably the million dollar question in all of this comes down to how we change our approach to mobility,” said Truch. “If we continue the status quo of continuing to build caroriented suburban developments, we will end up with massive vehicle congestion.” TMG
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FEATURE
The Smooth Move Okanagan Checklist T
his list is a compilation of advice given by Realtors, movers, home inspectors and storage companies. It is given in an effort to make your move as painless as can be reasonably hoped for. If we’re missing something, let us know by emailing adwurx@gmail.com.
The Subjects Are Off
...and you’re officially plunged into moving madness! Hopefully, you have at least 6 weeks before your possession date. Here are the first things you need to get on.. 1.
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Make a moving file... put it on Google Docs or Dropbox or just create a folder on your desktop or, call me crazy but why not use a plain-jane manilla folder so you don’t have to scan everything? Or both. Whaaatever. You’re going to have a pile of receipts, quotes and important documents and you’ll save time by putting them all in one place. (Don’t forget: if you move to get at least 40 km closer to your new work or school, you can usually write off some moving expenses on your taxes.)
the Moving Guide 2022 EDITION
2. Quick: establish a date with the moving company or van rental and any people who might help and have the misfortune of being your friend during a move... along with their able bodied and
unfortunate kids. A note on moving companies: get three quotes from companies that have some kind of credentials. Think Better Business Bureau or the Canadian Association of Movers. You are handing over the contents of your home to a stranger. Not to alarm you but some people pose as legitimate moving companies only because it’s a much more efficient way to steal things from you than bashing in your windows. Note: we recommend the movers in this magazine. We know them!
And read the documents well enough to know what the final bill will be. For example, if you’re renting a van that has 4 foot letters plastered on it proclaiming that you will get a daily rate of less than 20 bucks, know that it will cost a lot more. Just sayin’: check the contracts to be sure you understand the final costs. 3. If you’re doing it yourself, you might want to consider getting a metal sea-can dropped on your driveway so you can load it up day by day. So easy. You need to book the drop off, pick up and take away dates that align with the moving dates. Availability and weekends are potential snags.
FEATURE BY ALAN WYNNE 4.
Start thinking about any difficult items to move: piano, pool tables, safes, valuable art, etc... Some of these items may have to go into short-term storage.
5. If you’re planning a garage sale, now is the time to plan it. Get it over with early. If you’re selling stuff online, get it advertised early as well.
6. Book your time off work. 7.
Partaay! While you’ve got time, get together with your current neighbours who you won’t be seeing as often after you’ve moved.
8. Call your insurance company. You need insurance on the new home of course but you also need to make sure that you’re insured during the move. Sometimes you’re not and we have some horror stories on that. Don’t forget that your stuff is going to be in a truck that usually announces to the entire world that it’s a moving van and that it therefore contains a load of precious stuff. Things happen—especially when you have to park one of those vans overnight. 9. Now is the time to start hoarding boxes: liquor stores, and grocery stores are your the new
places to hang out. You might want to call Frogbox (250-769-3764) who will drop off all the plastic boxes you want and will pick them up to be reused. It’s easy and you earn yourself a green star! There are also places online that will sell you used cardboard boxes in good condition. Google it or try out greenii.ca/products/ used-cardboard-boxes. They’ll even send you shredded recycled cardboard for protective packing. Way better than styrofoam. You are The Green Machine! Of course you can also use your own towels, socks and T-shirts to protect the breakable stuff. Hold on to your newspapers as well. When you start packing with underwear, it’s definitely time to call for the shredded cardboard. Definitely. 10. There are boxes and various nifty gadgets and supplies to be found that can make the move easier. Go to Uline.ca or drop in to Spicers Kelowna on Spall or into the many U-haul outlets. 11. The packing will start early and it’s best to pack a bit every day starting now but you want to devise a system. The standard advice is to have different coloured labels for each room but you might have a better idea. Just start a system early and stick to it and get everybody on board. While you’re getting labels, pick up some “fragile” stickers too and if you don’t have it, get packing tape along with the tape gun thing. If you’re taking furniture apart, put the bolts/screws in zip top bags and affix the bags to the furniture or clearly label the bags. You’ll also need a sturdy box or two for important documents and valuables that are not going in with the general moving boxes.
3 to 4 weeks out:
It’s easy to start feeling overwhelmed but don’t worry, trust the plan!
shopping and arrange to have it delivered to your new home.
12. Moving into a condo? Give them a call and see if there are any restrictions on moving day and reserve the elevator if need be. 13. Start thinking of discarding. No really — you do not want to be lugging things into the new home that you’ll just be giving away. Time to give up on what’s not selling on Marketplace or Castanet and surrender your items to ReStore, Gospel Mission and Value Village. 14. Are you buying larger items such as a mattress, appliances or furniture for your new home? Get
15. Utilities: Time to work through the Fortis, BC Hydro and local utilities labyrinth. You need to transfer or shut down the current providers and figure out which one gets to service your new home. When it comes to phone, cable and internet, there are serious deals to be made when you’re moving. They know that you’re at a consumer crossroad and
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2022 EDITION the Moving Guide
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FEATURE they want your longterm business. (Don’t forget the local guys!) 16. Pets: If you’re moving out of the country, you have to talk to your vet about vaccinations. (Hopefully your pet doesn’t watch Fox News.) And if you’re flying somewhere, you need to get your shots up to date. If you’re moving in from another region, talk to your vet about getting inoculated for our lovely local parasites such as heartworm and ticks. If you’re moving within the region, you’ll want to transfer your records to a vet in your new area. Your license is still valid in the region but if you’re from out of town, licenses are bought from the Regional District (250-469-6344 or rdco.com/en/livinghere/dog-licences)
forwarded. We recommend buying the longer terms. Some businesses just don’t seem to get the message. Which leads to...
have the carpets cleaned in the new home before you fill it with furniture. 20. Fix up the scratches and minor repairs that need some attention.
Only 2 weeks!
17. Speaking of rdco. com, go check it out so you can find out when your garbage will be picked up, what goes into your garbage/blue bin as well as the fun things like the amenities, parks and trails that are near your new home.
Okay deep breath. You can do this!
18. Call the cleaners and carpet cleaners to get them in your current home after you’ve moved out.
21. Call your mortgage broker to make sure everything is moving along. A small bureaucratic mistake by the bank or lawyer is a very big problem for you. If you can believe it, they may not even be set up to simply receive the money on the seller’s behalf. Buying or selling, call the broker. We’ll say it again: we have stories!
19. If necessary and if it’s possible, arrange to
22. Go See Canada Post and get your mail
23. Start discovering how completely exasperating many of the websites are for changing your mailing address. First ones to change are your driver’s license and CRA — especially if you’re getting CRA cheques. Other people to contact are subscriptions, credit cards and charities that you want to continue supporting —and to keep your tax receipts coming. You can also call the free delivery newspapers (Cap News: 250-763-3212) to confirm that you wish to receive (or not) the paper at your new address.
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RENO ESTIMATES
FEATURE 24. Got kids? Line up the babysitter or a play day with friends during the move.
34. Unplug, clean and defrost the (now empty) fridge the day before the move.
25. Got pets? Ditto.
35. Change your codes to the security systems and garage door.
26. Send out the new address to friends and family. 27. Transfer your prescriptions to a new pharmacy if necessary. 28. Plan your meals in order to empty the fridge which you’ll want to clean and dry out before you leave.
The Last Week:
Ok: maybe a bit of panic is understandable at this point... 29. Start cleaning the home if you don’t have a cleaner coming in. 30. Drain flammables from any machines that are being moved. 31. If you’re taking any fixtures to the new home, take them down now. 32. Pack your essential box with everything you need for the 24 hours of the moving day. 33. Take photo’s of the home to prove that it’s move-in ready for the next occupants. Take pictures of your furniture and items that can be damaged or scratched by the move.
36. Make arrangements to protect your floors during the move.
Moving day is upon you
...and now that you’ve checked off the boxes, the actual day can be somewhat enjoyed. Savour the excitement of the new home! But first, a few last things to remember...
37. Pack what you need last, first in the van and what you need first, last. Eg: vacuum cleaner, cleaning supplies, blankets, pillows, sheets, etc... go in last so they’re available when you arrive at the new house. 38. Leave manuals, neighbourhood notes, keys, the location of the main water valve, door codes, any special instructions and the (polite) neighbours’ names for the new occupants. 39. Do a walk through: make sure nothing is left behind... cupboards, shelves, crawl spaces and inside the appliances. Turn off the water, adjust the thermostat according to the season, turn off all the lights, securely close all the windows.
After the move...
40. In the first few days, go for a walk around the neighbourhood and meet your new neighbours. The sooner you shake their hands the fewer times you’ll have those awkward moments when you see them and you don’t have time to have an introductory chat. 41. Get the security system set up.
42. Put your boxes up for give away on Kijiji, Castanet or Marketplace. Bring the wrecked ones to the recycling depot. 43. Send thank-you notes to the people who helped, if they’re still talking to you! Well done! Enjoy your new home! TMG
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2022 EDITION the Moving Guide
13
OPINION
A Housing Boom for Boomers Only W Broken economy, with housing at the epicenter. Hard work doesn’t pay off like it used to. UBC Prof and founder of Generation Squeeze says in the 1970s it took 4 years to save for a down payment; today it takes 17. LOIS LANE WAREHOUSE
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the Moving Guide 2022 EDITION
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e have to break the cultural addiction to high home prices, says Paul Kershaw. The University of BC professor is the founder of Generation Squeeze, which advocates for younger Canadians. He’s one of the leading thinkers on generational equity and has been recognized for his advocacy on affordable housing. “There’s a lottery of timing right now,” he said. “Hard work was better rewarded back in the day.” Kershaw grew up in the Okanagan, and said he’s seen first-hand the increasing cost of a home and how much more hard work it takes now to save a down payment, versus a generation ago. “When my mom started out in the housing market it would have taken four years of full- time work to save up a 20% down payment on an average- priced home in the Kelowna area,” he said in an interview. “That was in 1970 as Baby Boomers were coming of age as young adults. If you flash forward to today, it now takes 17 years in the
Kelowna region to do that.” That puts home ownership out of reach for young people while their parents build passive wealth, he said. It also has the effect of creating more competition in the rental market, driving up the price of rent. “That is the cascade of what’s happened as the contagion of high and rising home prices in our province has grown; initially in Greater Vancouver, and then spread throughout the province, and now across the country,” he said. Not being able to break into the real estate market creates socioeconomic and psychological challenges — for example, denying many the comingof-age- feeling that you’ve made it as an adult, he said. “Rather than acknowledging that the system is broken and hard work isn’t paying off for young people, we invoke these cultural myths to disempower them further,” he said. They’re told that if they spent less on frivolous things, such as lattes and avocado toast, they too could have a picket-fence life. Kershaw said younger people go to school longer to
BY DAVID WYLIE land jobs that pay thousands of dollars less when you adjust for inflation, and they can’t afford a home. This in turn leads to a delay in starting a family. When they finally do start their families, out-ofcontrol child care costs are an added financial burden. When financial challenges inevitably arise, many are forced to seek help from their parents. Adding insult to injury is the phrase ‘Bank of Mom and Dad,’ which infantilizes adults, he said.
There are solutions
Kershaw, 47, admitted he’s benefiting from the current housing environment, making hundreds of thousands of dollars as he sleeps, simply by being fortunate enough to own a home in Vancouver. Still, he’s been working to narrow the gap. Housing problems are complex and deeply rooted, he said; however, policy solutions exist — it’s a matter of political willpower to implement some of the harder ones. Easier solutions currently being leveraged include a crackdown on money laundering through real estate as well as shady real estate practices; trying to tax speculation buyers out of the market; and stopping or complicating the practice of using homes as short-term vacation rentals. On top of that, Kershaw said municipalities have a responsibility to address ‘NIMBYism’ by facing down backlash from neighbourhoods that are against density. And of course it’s important the province increase protections for renters to make sure they aren’t secondclass citizens, he added. “We’re not recognizing the last piece,” said Kershaw. “We have an addiction to high and rising home values. When you can see how much home prices have left earnings behind in the middle of a pandemic when our economy hasn’t been that
great — and that’s happened on top of years and years and years of skyrocketing home prices before that — we need to recognize that our housing system, maybe unintentionally, is designed to grow home prices out of reach for local earnings. The system is fundamentally badly designed.” Those fortunate enough to have purchased a home before its value boomed can now use the ballooning equity to borrow at extremely low interest rates. “Our homes have become these lovely and increasingly limitless bank accounts,” he said, adding there is very little tax when it’s sold. Meanwhile, the way Statistics Canada measures inflation doesn’t properly factor in the cost to buy a home, Kershaw said. With low inflation, the Bank of Canada is comfortable keeping interest rates low. Cheap credit has become the only way to “hack” the broken housing system, he said. The problem then becomes worse for future home buyers. “It’s one thing if cauliflower goes up by 20%, but when homes go up by 20% that’s hundreds of thousands of dollars for people,” he said. While we have policy tools at hand to ease the crunch, politicians are not willing to pull the trigger, argued Kershaw. Currently, there aren’t enough people willing to stand up to stall home prices going up, as the majority of British Columbians are homeowners, he said. “It’s hard politics to ask a majority to change,” he said. “A bit of anger from a younger demographic is necessary and useful at this point because politics responds to those who organize and show up.” “There is hope for change. We’re not screwed. We can squeeze back and turn this lemon into lemonade. But it requires younger Canadians, younger residents of the Okanagan to be offended when people say that they are lazy and they are entitled.” TMG
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15
EDITORIAL
Moving withKids M
oving can be a stressful time for the whole family—but especially for children, who aren’t involved in making the actual decision to move so can’t understand why this is happening to them. In years past, families frequently continued to live in ancestral homes, taking up where their parents and grandparents left off, but today frequent moves are a fact of life, whether those moves are to a different neighbourhood or across the country. Christine Johnston says her 18-year-old son has been moved a dozen times since his birth, but all within the same region. Many of those moves were made when she was a single mom, with other youngsters besides, and the occasional pet involved as well, so she has had considerable experience helping kids make that transition with the least possible angst. Her first advice is to make sure the youngsters in the family know they will be moving; give them a chance to see some of the houses the
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the Moving Guide 2022 EDITION
BY JUDIE STEEVES
family is looking at seriously. Then, once a new home is selected, that they get a chance to visit it; take them to see their own room and then begin to pack up in preparation for the move. That said, she says she does her best to get all the little ones out from underfoot during the move itself. It helps to have grandparents, aunties, other relatives or friends available to have a pyjama party with the kids the night before and to keep them amused the day of the actual move. That way, they aren’t exposed to their parents’ stress during the move, they’re not in the way of the movers, and everyone knows they’re safe and looked after so the adults can turn their attention to the whole business of getting things moved. “It’s an emotional time for everyone involved,” she admits. “But it’s a nightmare if you have confused, upset, and demanding youngsters underfoot at the same time.” For their sake, she says she likes to introduce them to their new home so they can picture where their familiar ‘things’ will be. She would
rather they experience the excitement of a move and change than a fear of the unknown. She also suggests parents reassure youngsters that they can continue to keep in touch with friends from the old neighbourhood. Talking with your children about the move is a real benefit and gives them a chance to express any fears they have about the changes in their lives. It helps alleviate their uncertainties, and it helps mom and dad to understand the move from a little one’s point of view. Do, however, be firm about the fact the family is moving and don’t give them choices about things they can’t change, she adds, whether that’s the move itself, or which room they will be have in the new home. She also suggests each youngster be expected to help pack up not only their own things but also some parts of the rest of the house, even if it’s just the cupboard of plastic storage containers in the kitchen. “I try to involve them in every aspect of the move, up until moving day. It’s less scary for
EDITORIAL them if they’re a part of the move and helping to make some of the choices. It’s empowerment. “It’s just like realizing that letting kids help with meal preparation changes how they enjoy foods. They’re more willing to try things and they enjoy them more if they’ve helped prepare them,” she explains. Having children means there are more technical details which have to be looked after when you move too, from notifying old schools about the move, to registering them in a new school; changing addresses for groups they’re involved in if they will continue to be; and informing leaders in sports or organizations they’re involved in that there’s a move pending. And finally, she’s started a tradition that might be a good idea for others involved in a family move. The first night the family sleeps in the new home, they have a living-room party. Pizza is ordered, sleeping bags laid out and everyone in the family has a sleepover together that first night. “It’s a great start to have a party together in the new place; it’s a good opportunity for family bonding,” she laughs. TMG
“I try to involve them in every aspect of the move, up until moving day. It’s less scary for them if they’re a part of the move and helping to make some of the choices. It’s empowerment.” Christine Johnston, Expert mover. Expert Mom.
Mom with lots of experience moving with youngsters suggests finding a relative or friend to have the young ones over for a sleepover the night before moving day, so they’re not underfoot during the move itself.
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17
EDITORIAL
M
oving can be one of the most stressful times in our lives, with so much life-stuff to pack up and cart away. Organization can be the key to making the situation manageable. Try these tips to get the job done with less stress, and even make it a “green move.” Start by de-cluttering and disposing of things you really don’t use or need or have duplicates. Garage sales can be money-makers while cutting down on the amount of stuff you have to move or discard. Your mantra should be donate/gift/sell/recycle. No throw-aways in the landfill. Don’t be too quick to dash out and buy new moving supplies. Ask friends and family for leftover boxes or wrapping paper. Hardcase boxes rather than cardboard can be turned into storage at the new home.
Moving With A
GREEN Conscience
Lean away from using plastic bubble wrap or styrofoam-like peanuts. Make use of things you have to pack anyway—like dish towels, soft blankets, even clothing. Drink glasses slip neatly into socks, and stack too. Towels can wrap and layer dishes. Planning ahead saves on waste, disorganization and re-buying what you can’t find because you haven’t labelled the boxes. If you can’t find the coffee grinder the day after moving—you’ll be stuck buying another and now there’s two. Go through that garden shed. Dispose of lawn, garden, cleaning chemicals properly; take them to the right recycling depot. Pre-plan your trips to cut down on the back and forth from old digs to new digs. If you forget an item or three, try calling a friend or neighbour to pick up what you left behind and bring it over when they’re coming anyway. Give them an iced
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the Moving Guide 2022 EDITION
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tea or beer for their kind effort. Hire an eco-friendly moving company. Look for those committed to ‘green’ moves. Once the move is done and the moving supplies are in good shape, recycle to a next-in-line friend or give them away on Marketplace; if trashed, recycle appropriately. Find creative ideas to practice being green at the new place. Replace old bulbs with LED. Turn off lights when you leave the room. Unplug unused appliances. When you first move in, check the new home for heat loss through air cracks, loose seals around doors and windows. Use curtains to help keep winter cold out, and summer heat out too. Now is the time to start making plans about making investments in energy efficiencies like insulation, heat pumps and even solar. The earlier you upgrade, the sooner you can start accumulating the savings on your energy bill. There are significant government grants that can help with the up-front costs. It can start with an email to the BC government at: energy.efficiency@gov.bc. ca For “The Canada Greener Homes Grant”, call 1-833-674-8282 or Google it for the website. If you’re doing any renovations, call up ReStore and they’ll come into your home and remove the old cabinets, counters, doors, and fixtures for free and leave it contractor-ready: refuse removed and floors swept. They do the work for free and they’ll reuse your materials. Less landfill and you get your site prepped for the start of the new renovation for free. And they might even give you a tax receipt! Kermit from Sesame Street has got it wrong. It isn’t all that hard being green! TMG
BY JUDE CAMPBELL
Frog Boxes For Your Move While it sounds like something your 10-year-old would like to have and fill with same— this Frogbox is not intended for croaking amphibians. Sturdy, solid, fully recyclable, Frogbox is the green way to move. “It’s stackable, sturdy, roomy, weatherproof and re-useable,” explains James Kirkpatrick, owner of the Kelowna company. “It’s a great green option, great for the planet, and very simple. The boxes can be reused 400 times before being sent to be fully recycled into other products,” he said. He added that the most common comment he gets from customers is “that was the easiest move they have ever had.” Part of what makes the Frogbox appealing, besides being kind to the planet, is that the boxes come in different sizes and “almost interlock”, and also come with labels to keep track of what’s inside. “It’s the ease of use,” Kirkpatrick said. “There’s no folding, no taping, no assembly. At the end of the day, you don’t have 60 boxes to break down, take away, store or try to sell.” Adding to the appeal, is having the nesting boxes dropped at your door, and picked up when your move is done. The size of your move dictates how many Frogboxes might be necessary, including mattress covers and wardrobes, and the price is “in the ballpark” compared to traditional cardboard moves. Since green is in the forefront of the company, clients can also purchase ‘green’ bubble wrap and fully recyclable wrapping paper. Organizing a planet-friendly green move can be checked out online at Frogbox.com or by calling Kirkpatrick at 250-769-3764.
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