Real Estate Magazine May 2024

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Connect your business and services with an audience made for you. Advertise your home services, real estate offers, financial options and more in the monthly Real Estate Magazine for our area.

Do you have more to share with our readers? Editorial submissions are also welcomed, please email publisher@prpeak.com with your subject and/or article for consideration.

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• Professional ad design

• Distribution on BC Ferries

Route 3 (Horseshoe Bay-Langdale) Route 7 (Earls Cove-Saltery Bay) Route 17 (Comox-Powell River)

• Distribution in the first Midweek Peak each month to households, office and drop-boxes throughout City of Powell River and qathet Regional District, including Texada Island

• Digital Edition available on prpeak.com

PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com

Real estate sales in the Powell RiverSunshine Coast region were down in March 2024 from the previous year, but sales potential is looking good moving toward the warmer weather, according to a local spokesperson.

“I can tell you the market is really heating up, with more sales and competing offers starting to happen on certain listings,” said Powell River Sunshine Coast Real Estate Board president Curtis Yungen. “The spring market is in full swing and I see it just getting busier as the weather gets nice.”

In the single-family homes category, in March 2024, there

Real estate sales heating up

were 23 sales, valued at $14,629,900, compared to 30 sales, valued at $19,904,800, in March 2023.

There was one sale in the mobile and manufactured homes category in March 2023, valued at $215,000, compared to one sale, valued at $79,000, in March 2023.

In the condo, apartment and duplex category, there were

three sales, valued at $1,524,000, in March 2024, compared to four sales, valued at $1,830,000, in March 2023.

Totals in the residential category indicate 27 sales in March 2024, valued at $16,368,900, compared to 35 sales, valued at $21,813,800, in March 2023.

On the nonresidential side, there were two parcels of vacant land sold in March 2024, valued at $478,000, compared to two sales in March 2023, valued at $379,000.

Grand totals indicate 30 sales in March 2024, valued at $16,846,015, compared to 38 sales in March 2023, valued at $22,185,000.

Average selling price for single-family residential was $636,083 in March 2024, with

an average of 83 days on the market, compared to $663,493 in March 2023, with an average of 68 days on the market. The median price in March 2024 was $590,000, down from $599,900 in March 2023.

In terms of new listings, there were 67 new residential listings and 14 new nonresidential listings in March 2024, for a total of 81 new listings. There were 146 active listings in the residential category and 60 non-residential, for a total of 206 active listings at the end of March 2024.

According to the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA), the number of new listings saw a substantial gain of 30 per cent from March 2023. The 67 new residential listings

in March 2024 were the largest number of new listings added in the month of March in two decades, according to CREA.

New listings were 23.1 per cent above the five-year average and 27.7 per cent above the 10-year average for the month of March.

needed, plus helpful suggestions for someone new to the area.

He could have not been better at helping us find our new home. A big thank you to Max for all his help and taking such good care of us for so long.

“March capped off a slow start to the first quarter of 2024,” stated BCREA chief economist, Brendon mundson. “Despite a steep decline in fixed mortgage rates, buyers appear to be waiting on the Bank of Canada to lower its policy rate before jumping back into the market.”

Year-to-date, BC residential sales dollar volume was up 13 per cent to $15.8 billion, compared with the same period in 2023, according to BCREA. Residential unit sales were up 6.4 per cent to 15,938 units, while the average MLS® residential price was up 6.5 per cent to $995,149.

In BC, a total of 6,460 residential unit sales were recorded in Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) systems in March 2024, a decline of 9.5 per cent from March 2023, according to a British Columbia Real Estate Association (BCREA) report. The average MLS® residential price in BC in March 2024 was up 6.5 per cent at $1.02 million, compared to an average price of $958,051 in March 2023. Total sales dollar volume was $6.6 billion, a decrease of 3.6 per cent from the same time the previous year.

Max went the extra mile for me. He sold our house on Traffe road. I’m not saying he’s perfect, who’s perfect? I’m saying “job well done!” Very cute and personable.

Max had the most knowledge and expert opinion of the market. Max showed us patience as it took us a few years to be in the proper position and find the right fit.

Curtis Yungen President, Powell River Sunshine Coast Real Estate Board

Home organizer shares selling tips

With the busy real estate season upon us, it’s time for prospective sellers to smarten up their properties’ curb appeal, and get the house presentable for the market.

Professional organizer and qathet region resident Ranka Burzan, who launched her home staging and organizing business more than 20 years ago, said the key to sellers maximizing the value of their asset is to ensure homes are free of clutter, and well organized.

“Cluttered homes don’t sell,” she stressed.

often need professional input to make tough choices about which household items remain on display, and which get boxed up.

“Organizing is a project; it’s letting go of the

tive buyers inside.

1. The outside of the house is equally as important as the inside. Make sure the driveway is clean, and the lawn is looking fresh. “The realtor can’t make buyers go inside,” said Burzan. “If there’s oil on the driveway, it’s cracked, or they see you didn’t cut the grass, they’re not going to drop by.”

2. Make sure paint on the house isn’t peeling. “A couple of coats will do, and it’s very cheap,” she said.

4. Make sure everything is in working order, whether it involves taking a do-ityourself approach or hiring a professional. “Fix the faucet, fix your dishwasher,” she said. “Everything has to be in working condition.”

5. Keep pets out of the way and take dogs for a walk during viewings. “A lot of people are scared of pets,” noted Burzan. “Some dogs have a smell; so do cats.”

6. Take the time to define each room. “Buyers shouldn’t be guessing getting for their money,” said Burzan.

8. Eliminate unpleasant smells. “If you just fried fish, boil vinegar,” advised Burzan. “It in it.”

10. Decorate your home to make it more inviting. “Use candles, plants and flowers,” suggested Burzan, “and

Ranka Burzan has written several books on reducing clutter. For more information, thranka@gmail.com or

RANKA BURZAN Professional organizer and qathet resident Feverpitched, iStock, Getty Images Plus

Are people ready for homebuying helpers?

Report shows Canadians are considering rent-to-own, joint ownership and secondary suites

CLAIRE WILSON Glacier Media

More homebuyers in BC and Western Canada are becoming increasingly creative about their options as affordability woes create further roadblocks to entering market.

That’s according to a report from RE/ MAX Canada and market research firm Leger, which examines “alternative” ways Canadians are entering the housing market.

In Western Canada, secondary suites are identified as the most popular means to help buy a home, thanks to the extra income from renters. This is in addition to joint tenancy and tenants in com-

mon, which both represent different ways of splitting up ownership of a property.

While the report brands these as “alternative,” real estate agent Tim Hill said this type of housing is common.

“It’s a staple in BC It’s not that alternative and homes with [secondary] suites, they do better, they sell quicker and there’s a much bigger demand for it without a doubt,” said Hill, whose office is based in New Westminster.

“Even joint tenants and tenancy in common, I don’t find that very alternative either.”

Thirty-two per cent of Canadians are exploring nontraditional ways

of entering the housing market, while 48 per cent would consider nontraditional forms of home ownership in the future, according to the Leger survey contained in report.

“Many buyers who purchase a home with a secondary suite are doing so for additional income to help with mortgage costs,” the report stated.

Multiple suites on a single property may soon become more ubiquitous in BC due to legislation passed last November that allows up to six units on a single-family lot.

“Canadians from coast to coast are grappling with affordability challenges, but at the

same time, their desire to achieve home ownership remains strong,” stated Christopher Alexander, president of RE/MAX Canada. “This is prompting many to seriously consider alternative ways to get their foot in the door where it might not be feasible under the traditional ownership model of a single person or couple purchasing with between five and 20 per cent down.”

Rent-to-own is identified as the most popular model Canadians would consider as a means to enter the housing market.

BC United, the province’s official opposition party, recently proposed a rent-to-own

program in its housing platform. It cited a Port Moody project in which 10 per cent of a 358-unit development was designated as rent-to-own, describing it as a “successful example.”

In addition to secondary suites, joint tenancy is identified as another popular avenue for homeseekers in Western Canada.

This involves each party owing an equal part of the property, commonly when spouses or partners purchase a property together, and has a right of survivorship in which 100 per cent of the ownership is transferred to surviving members in the case of death.

Tenants in common

is among the top three homebuying helpers in the report. This refers to individuals who own different percentages of the property. Across Canada, 21 per cent of respondents said they would consider co-ownership with a family member that isn’t a spouse or partner.

However, Hill said he doesn’t predict any significant increases in the number of people tapping these methods based on what he has encountered on a dayto-day basis.

“It’s a great potential idea, but I don’t see as many people doing it,” he added. “Truly, I think people want to do it themselves.”

INVESTOR ALERT! Prime commercial property is a must see. The level quarter-acre lot (68’ x 150’) offers room for development. An 800+ sqf bungalow recently updated, with 3 bedrooms, and currently provides traveller accommodation at over $3,000/mth.

4460 JOYCE AVENUE

$349,900 MLS®17796

Listed by Josh Statham - 460 Realty

IMMACULATE WESTVIEW HOME. Located on a quiet no-thru road in Westview this lovingly well kept house is ready for you to call it home. Main level entry home with three bedrooms together on the main, upgraded windows and a high efficiency furnace.

7185 JORDAN STREET

$589,900 MLS®17942

Listed by Josh Statham - 460 Realty

CENTRAL ACREAGE. This turn key main-level-entry home is situated on a level one-acre lot in Central Westview. This property has development potential, and is currently zone R2 (single and two family), or makes an excellent home for anyone in search of a shop, parking or storage. 4532 MANSON AVENUE $769,900 MLS®17776

Listed by Josh Statham - 460 Realty

NO GST! Th remarkable semi-detached rancher offers quality for easy-care living. From the natural stone detail at the entrance to the underground power lines and efficient heat pump with AC, this home is designed to impress.

4048 SATURNA AVENUE $769,900 MLS®17876

Listed by Josh Statham - 460 Realty

$369,900 MLS®17896

MYRTLE CREEK BUILDING LOT. One of the last remaining lots in Myrtle Creek Estates, this wide fronting 1.2 acre lot has mature timber, excellent access and many desirable building sites, located in one of the most popular developments in Powell River! LOT 23 - 3803 BRADFORD ROAD

Listed by Josh Statham - 460 Realty

5011 MANSON AVENUE $599,900 MLS®17801

Listed by Josh Statham - 460 Realty

Beautifully updated, 5-bdrm, 3-bath, central Westview home is just steps to the beach walk on desirable Hammond Street. The open concept plan is bright and inviting, main-level primary bedroom features trendy ensuite and built in closet.

6883 HAMMOND STREET

$799,900 MLS®17875

Listed by Josh Statham - 460 Realty

4058 Saturna Ave exceeds the building standards of today’s new homes. Lifetime roof warranty, Step code 3 certified-superior energy efficiency, upgraded insulation, and heat recovery ventilator system are just a few of the many enhancements you will find with this semidetached 3 bedroom plus bonus room home.

4060 SATURNA AVENUE $849,900 MLS®17679

Listed by Josh Statham - 460 Realty

This three-parcel land assembly on a quiet side road in Cranberry is comprised of three separately titled R2 (Single and Two-Family) lots. Lot B has 95’ of frontage on Drake Street with 132’ flanking a side lane with further road dedication. Lots C and D are both 66’ x 145’. LOT B, C, D DRAKE STREET $399,900 MLS®17799

Listed by Josh Statham - 460 Realty

MOVE-IN-READY! Stylishly remodeled with high-end upgrades, this two-story half-duplex has so much to offer. Main-level-entry home on a private pan-handle lot has full yard access with recently upgraded driveway, attached carport, storage shed, privacy hedge. 4555A MICHIGAN AVENUE $649,900 MLS®17672

Listed by Josh Statham- 460 Realty

SUITE. SPACE. LOCATION! Located on a wide-fronting lot with an accessible half-acre+ of land, this turn-key main-level-entry home with ground floor contained suite, walk out basement and attached garage is also conveniently located a short stroll from Mowat Bay. 5930 MOWAT AVENUE

$849,900 MLS®17913

Listed by Josh Statham - 460 Realty

ACREAGE & TWO HOMES! Located in the desirable Myrtle Creek area, just a few minutes south of the municipality and near trails, market gardens and beaches, this beautifully developed 1.2 acre corner lot features two homes. The main home is level entry with a massive over-height rec room and country kitchen.

3047 BRADFORD ROAD $1,199,900 MLS®17643

Listed by Josh Statham - 460 Realty

RARE LAND CABIN on POWELL LAKE! Just ten minutes from the boat launch, this freehold land cabin is a rare offering. Private bay with ramp and float and nice fire-shore create a lake side oasis. Cabin has great amenities like full bathroom, solar and large deck.

9302 POWELL LAKE

$399,900 MLS®17937

Listed by Josh Statham - 460 Realty

Stylish rancher provides the ease of single-level living, fenced level yard, attached double garage and desirable open concept plan. Spacious kitchen offers ceiling height cabinets, stainless appliance and large island, and the dining room is surrounded by windows and natural light.

7365 GLACIER STREET

$699,900 MLS®17832

Listed by Josh Statham - 460 Realty

CENTRAL DEVELOPMENT PROPERTY! 1.35 acres at the dead end of Boswell Street in Central Westview, currently zoned R2 (single and two family). The property has been cleared with great access and services on the street, ready for a new in-fill subdivision. Power will be run to the lot soon.

LOT 12 BOSWELL STREET $599,900 MLS®17867

Listed by Josh Statham - 460 Realty

2.2 acres in the heart of Westview offering breathtaking ocean views, fronting three streets, with a gentle slope ideal for tiered development, and a solid character home with outbuildings. The possibilities are endless for this one-of-a-kind property.

7108 KEMANO STREET

$1,499,900 MLS®17894

Listed by Josh Statham - 460 Realty

OCEANVIEW ACREAGE! This gently sloping 3.46-acre building lot in Paradise Valley is just minutes from town and offers incredible ocean views and southern exposure in a picturesque rural setting. The lot is accessed via a quiet cul-de-sac b overlooks Myrtle Rocks.

LOT 3 CENTENNIAL DRIVE

$469,900 MLS®17823

Listed by Josh Statham - 460 Realty

7355 LAZO STREET $749,900 MLS®17653

Listed by Josh Statham - 460 Realty

1.35 acres at the dead end of Boswell Street in Central Westview, currently zoned R2 (single and two family). The property has been cleared with great access and services on the street, ready for a new in-fill subdivision. The adjoining lot is also listed for sale.

7151 BOSWELL STREET $1,199,900 MLS®17724

Listed by Josh Statham - 460 Realty

With over 5000 square feet of fully finished custom living space, this West Coast contemporary home truly has it all. This 6-bedroom 4-bathroom home includes; main level entry, beautiful views, 19’ ceilings, open concept kitchen, private sundeck, and so much more.

3551 SELKIRK AVENUE $1,579,900 MLS®17910

Listed by Josh Statham - 460 Realty

BASECAMP DESOLATION SOUND STRATA LOT 20 OCEAN VIEW

7 acre ocean view lot located at the gateway to Desolation Sound, just minutes to Lund on the Sunshine Coast. Road accessible with power available. No building permit process required. $499,000

Road accessible, forested building lot overlooking Sansum Narrows and Salt Spring Island. Close proximity to amenities, marina with daily float plane service to Vancouver. Ideal full-time residence or recreational getaway. Power to the lot line, multiple building sites to choose from. $399,000

3.55 acre rural property. 12,314 sq. ft. light industrial building accommodating a wide range of uses. 20 ft ceilings, 3 roll up doors, leveling deck, 400 amp single phase and 100 amp three phase power, 15 gpm drilled well, approved septic and 1,105 sq. ft. of office space. 364 ft of road frontage with a gated paved driveway and parking lot. $1,680,000

PRIVATE FLOATING LODGE HOLE IN THE WALL - TLUPANA INLET

Turnkey private floating fishing lodge in Hole in the Wall, Nootka Sound, near Critter Cove, West Coast of Vancouver Island, one of BC’s best fishing areas. Well maintained, fully equipped, furnished and ready to go. Jump in your boat and go fishing. $850,000

7 acre wilderness lot located at the gateway to Desolation Sound, just minutes to Lund on the Sunshine Coast. Road accessible with power available. No building permit process required. $429,000

5 acre ocean view lot located at the gateway to Desolation Sound, just minutes to Lund on the Sunshine Coast. Road accessible with power available. No building permit process required. $589,000

90 ACRE OCEAN AND LAKE FRONT PROPERTY - QUATSINO

90 acres, 2 titles 1,150 ft oceanfront in Hecate Cove and 1,850 ft lakefront on Colony Lake in Quatsino on the west coast of Vancouver Island. Road goes through property. May have subdivision potential. Substantial mature timber, some cedar, no estimate of volume. $1,500,000

OCEANFRONT CABIN AND DOCK ON BOULDER POINT - CORTES ISLAND

6.92 acres with 756 sq. ft. cabin and 40 ft dock providing deep water moorage. 3 minutes by boat from Squirrel Cove government wharf and general store on Cortes Island. Easily accessible and located right in world renowned yachting destination Desolation Sound. NOW $649,000

- HARDY ISLAND

This offering comprises two spectacular oceanfront lots, each with a private dock and drilled well, allowing for two homes per lot. Includes a private beach and RV for living during construction. It’s an ideal opportunity for a private estate or group purchase. $1,499,999

MUSGRAVE LANDING HOME AND MOORAGE - SALT SPRING ISLAND

Oceanfront property with custom 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home, separate studio / guest cabin. Private marina, moorage at your doorstep. Road accessible with services. Ideally situated in the Southern Gulf Islands with easy access to Vancouver Island. $1,250,000

1.73 ACRE OCEANFRONT CLOSE TO MAPLE BAY - VANCOUVER ISLAND

BASECAMP DESOLATION SOUND STRATA LOT 25 WILDERNESS

10.55 ACRE OCEANFRONT ESTATE TELESCOPE PASS

140 ACRE OCEANFRONT BRAMHAM ISLAND

TEXADA ISLAND

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OCEAN VIEW acreage on Southview Road. Looking for a private acreage to build the perfect home or vacation cabin? This charming 1.76 acre property, with gorgeous ocean views of Ahgykson (Harwood) Island, is located just 15 minutes to the Lund Harbour – gateway to Desolation Sound Marine Park, and only 15 minutes to the amenities of Powell River. At the front of the property there is a rustic sleeping cabin for storage or overnighting, easy to build onto or relocate. A new drilled well in 2023 provides an excellent source of water and a driveway provides access the centre of the property off Southview Road. This gently sloped property with mixed forest could be the perfect coastal hideaway. Walk to the beach access trail opposite Southview Road and spend your days on the beach or hike the nearby Toquenatch Trail loop, part of the Sunshine Coast Trail network, to immerse yourself in the coastal rainforest. Call today for more details!

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7312 HIGHWAY 101 $1,399,000

Investment property located minutes outside of the city limits. Live on property and manage your investments at the same time. This property offers a newer house, boat shop, quonset building (over 5,000 sq ft), six storage bays and two sea cans. All currently rented with exception of one sea can. All this in 1.5 acres of land.

4620 REDONDA AVENUE $719,900

Beautiful Heritage Style Home Located in the Heart of Westview!! Unbelievable thought and creativity has been put into restoring this gem back to its former glory. This historic house has 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms and is spaciously laid out over 2900 sq.ft. Notable majestic features include fir floors, high ceilings, restored doors, original baseboards, stunning exposed brick, new kitchen & more.

12423 SCOTCH FIR POINT ROAD

$849,900

Unique Oceanfront Property. This gem is almost an acre of land and you can live right at the ocean’s edge. Live in your winterized A-frame while building your dream home above and storing your belongings in your 29x23 shop, which is tall enough for a boat or RV. Enjoy watching all the sea life from the comforts of your kitchen & bedroom window.