Planning a home improvement project? A kitchen renovation can increase your home’s value by 20%, according to Royal LePage experts

Survey highlights:

• Royal LePage professionals say, on average, bathroom renovations can increase the value of a home by 16%
• Finished basements and basement apartments have the potential to increase a home’s value by 15%, according to survey results
• Outdoor entertaining space and landscaping have the potential to increase a property’s value by an average of 10%, according to respondents
• For Canadians looking for general guidance on where to invest in their home renovation projects, 87% of surveyed experts recommend interior renovations

TORONTO, May 5, 2022 – According to a recent Royal LePage survey of 340 real estate professionals across the country, a kitchen renovation is the most worthwhile home improvement project. Respondents say that, on average, a kitchen renovation has the potential to increase a property’s value by 20 per cent. A bathroom renovation ranked second, with the potential to increase a home’s value by an average of 16 per cent.

“Kitchen renovations typically yield the greatest return on investment, as this space is most frequently used, and is perceived as the gathering place and the heart of the home,” said Mike Heddle, broker and team leader, Royal LePage State Realty. “When a potential buyer views a home for the first time, the one thing that will stand out – for better or worse – is what the kitchen looked and felt like. They may not remember the size of the bedrooms or the colour of the walls, but they will remember the kitchen.”

Heddle noted that investing in upgrades to your home can be beneficial whether or not you are planning to sell in the short term.

“During the pandemic, many Canadian homeowners used built-up savings to make improvements to their homes. Whether it’s a new kitchen or upgrading your outdoor space, home renovations are a worthwhile investment, as you and your family will enjoy the new space, in addition to the potential increase to the overall property value.”

Exterior projects such as an outdoor entertaining space or landscaping have the potential to increase a property’s value by an average of 10 per cent.

The survey showed that basement renovations ranked third (finished basement) and fourth (basement apartment). Royal LePage experts say that finished basements and basement apartments have the potential to increase a home’s value by an average of 15 per cent.

“In today’s market, investing in a basement apartment can greatly increase the value of a home, largely because it can help offset mortgage costs with a rental unit, or appeal to newcomers looking for multigenerational homes,” said Heddle. “Since the onset of the pandemic, we are also noticing senior homeowners looking at multigenerational opportunities to live under the same roof. Having an additional fully livable unit allows for more privacy for those families.”

According to survey respondents, window replacements can increase the value of a home by 13 per cent, and interior painting can increase the value of a home by 12 per cent, on average.

“While updating the kitchen or a bathroom can increase your sales price more significantly, minor upgrades such as interior painting can be a simple and cost-effective option to increase the value of the home.”

For Canadians looking for general guidance on where to invest in their home renovation projects, the vast majority of surveyed experts (87%) recommend interior renovations.

The majority of surveyed experts (59%) say that prospective sellers have been less inclined to renovate their homes prior to listing since the onset of the pandemic, due to sustained seller’s market conditions. Additionally, 57 per cent say that sellers may choose not to renovate, due to recent increases in the cost of construction materials and labour.

“Properties that are turnkey with modern finishes spend less time on the market,” said Heddle. “However, the timeframe and logistics for delivery of goods and materials may be a deterrent for many sellers, especially with the rising costs associated with renovation projects.”

Investing in a pool is considered the least worthwhile renovation to increase a property’s value. According to the survey, a pool can increase a home’s value by an average of only six per cent.

Royal LePage Survey: Home Renovation ROI – Data chart: rlp.ca/chart-home-renovation-ROI

In honor of St. Patrick's Day tomorrow, I thought we could talk about all things green.

When it comes to home decorating, the color green can evoke powerful emotions. It symbolizes growth, renewal, abundance, peace, and security.

And, who wouldn't want all those good feels in their home?

Here's some tips for using green in your home:

Tip #1 - The best rooms for going green

Green is a great color choice for any room where you want to create the feeling of luxury, or a feeling of being safe and secure.

It can make a great statement wall in a dining room, or be a peaceful color for a bedroom. Lately, it's also become a popular color for kitchen cabinets.

Dark Greens - great for dining room and bedroom accent walls, a home office, and kitchen/bath cabinetry

Light Greens - perfect for bedrooms

Gorgeous green accent wall from Angela Rose Home​

Tip #2 - Green paint colors can be tricky

Green paint colors often have undertones that can make it challenging to find the perfect one, so sampling and testing them is KEY!

If you read my post about the 2022 paint colors of the year, then you already know that gray-greens were a clear trend. Expect to see a lot of gray-green this year on everything from walls to cabinets.

Here are some of my favorite green paint colors (from dark to light):

• ​Benjamin Moore Hunter Green​
• ​Farrow & Ball Green Smoke​
• ​Sherwin-Williams Evergreen Fog​
• ​Benjamin Moore Saybrook Sage​
• ​Benjamin Moore Soft Fern​

Tip #3 - The best colors to pair with green

Greens are versatile and play well with others. They work very well with colors that are next to them on the color wheel (blues and yellows), or opposite on the wheel (reds). And, of course, they also look great with neutrals

Here are come of the best colors to pair with green:

• Neutrals (blacks, whites, grays, browns, beiges)
• Navy blue
• Icy blues and turquoise
• Rust and terracotta
• Pinks, corals, and mauves
• Burgundy

Tip #4 - Add a little green-ery to every room in your home

Plants are a crucial element of a well-designed home. Not only do they add color and texture to a space, but they have a way of making a room feel more cozy and finished.

Here's an easy and clear rule you should be following:

Use at least one plant or floral in every room of your home.

Yes, that includes the bathroom.

6 Brackenridge Place Port Moody

Welcome to 6 Brackenridge in Heritage Mountain. This fabulous executive 4/5 bedroom & 4 bath home is just what you have been waiting for. Located on a quiet cul-de-sac street, this home has had many updates through the years. Elegant living room & dining area with new wood flooring. The gourmet kitchen is the show piece of the main floor. Stunning wood cabinets, gleaming S/S appliances & quartz counters tops, large walk-in pantry would make a chef proud. Large eating area & family room also finish this area. Large concrete sundeck for bbqing or relaxing & taking in the beautiful greenbelt.  Upstairs boosts 3 bedrooms & 2 updated bathrooms. The lower floor would make a great teen area or perhaps an in-law suite, with an updated spa-like bathroom. Sliders leads to an extra-large patio. Beautifully landscaped fully fenced backyard has easy care green turf, perfect for the kids or Fido. Truly a pleasure to show…

Listings inch up, demand remains steady and price gains continue in Metro Vancouver’s housing market in February

The Metro Vancouver housing market saw steady home sales activity, modest increases in home listings and continued upward trends in pricing in February.  

The Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver (REBGV) reports that residential home sales in the region totalled 3,424 in February 2022, an 8.1 per cent decrease from the 3,727 sales recorded in February 2021, and a 49.8 per cent increase from the 2,285 homes sold in January 2022. 

Last month’s sales were 26.9 per cent above the 10-year February sales average. 

“As we prepare to enter what’s traditionally the busiest season of the year, the Metro Vancouver housing market is seeing more historically typical home sale activity and a modest uptick in home listing activity compared to last year,” Taylor Biggar, REBGV Chair said.   

There were 5,471 detached, attached and apartment properties newly listed for sale on the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in Metro Vancouver in February 2022. This represents an 8.4 per cent increase compared to the 5,048 homes listed in February 2021 and a 31.2 per cent increase compared to January 2022 when 4,170 homes were listed.

 
The total number of homes currently listed for sale on the MLS® system in Metro Vancouver is 6,742, a 19.3 per cent decrease compared to February 2021 (8,358) and a 19.1 per cent increase compared to January 2022 (5,663). 

“Despite having a higher volume of people listing their homes for sale in February, the region’s housing market remains significantly undersupplied, which has been pushing home prices to new highs month after month,” Biggar said. 

 
For all property types, the sales-to-active listings ratio for February 2022 is 50.8 per cent. By property type, the ratio is 34.9 per cent for detached homes, 64.3 per cent for townhomes, and 62.2 per cent for apartments. 

Generally, analysts say downward pressure on home prices occurs when the ratio dips below 12 per cent for a sustained period, while home prices often experience upward pressure when it surpasses 20 per cent over several months. 

The MLS® Home Price Index composite benchmark price for all residential properties in Metro Vancouver is currently $1,313,400. This represents a 20.7 per cent increase over February 2021 and a 4.6 per cent increase compared to January 2022. 

“A lack of housing supply is at the heart of the affordability challenges in Metro Vancouver today. We need more coordinated action from stakeholders at all levels to help create an ample, diverse supply of housing options for residents in the region today and into the future,” Biggar said.

Sales of detached homes in February 2022 reached 1,010, an 18 per cent decrease from the 1,231 detached sales recorded in February 2021. The benchmark price for detached properties is $2,044,800. This represents a 25 per cent increase from February 2021 and a 4.7 per cent increase compared to January 2022. 

Sales of apartment homes reached 1,854 in February 2022, a 5.4 per cent increase compared to the 1,759 sales in February 2021. The benchmark price of an apartment property is $807,900. This represents a 15.9 per cent increase from February 2021 and a 4.1 per cent increase compared to January 2022. 

Attached home sales in February 2022 totalled 560, a 24 per cent decrease compared to the 737 sales in February 2021. The benchmark price of an attached unit is $1,090,000. This represents a 27.2 per cent increase from February 2021 and a 5.9 per cent increase compared to January 2022. 

Download the February 2022 stats package.

Low supply keeps upward pressure on home prices across Metro Vancouver’s housing market

The first month of 2022 saw home sales come down from last year’s record-setting pace, while low supply continued to cause home prices to edge higher across Metro Vancouver. 

The Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver (REBGV) reports that residential home sales in the region totalled 2,285 in January 2022, a 4.4 per cent decrease from the 2,389 sales recorded in January 2021, and a 15 per cent decrease from the 2,688 homes sold in December 2021. 

Last month’s sales were 25.3 per cent above the 10-year January sales average. 

There were 4,170 detached, attached and apartment properties newly listed for sale on the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in Metro Vancouver in January 2022. This represents a 6.9 per cent decrease compared to the 4,480 homes listed in January 2021 and a 114.4 per cent increase compared to December 2021 when 1,945 homes were listed.  

“Our listing inventory on MLS® is less than half of what would be optimal to begin the year. As a result, hopeful home buyers have limited choice in the market today. This trend is causing fierce competition for a scarce number of homes for sale, which, in turn, increases prices,” Keith Stewart, REBGV economist said. 

The total number of homes currently listed for sale on the MLS® system in Metro Vancouver is 5,663, a 31.8 per cent decrease compared to January 2021 (8,306) and an 8.2 per cent increase compared to December 2021 (5,236). 

“As we approach spring, we’ll keep a close eye on the impact of rising interest rates on buyers’ willingness to buy and on whether more home owners will opt to become sellers in what’s traditionally the busiest season of the year,” Stewart said. “With home prices reaching new highs in recent months, the need has never been greater for government to collaborate with the building community to expedite the creation of housing supply and provide more choice for those struggling to buy a home today.” 

For all property types, the sales-to-active listings ratio for January 2022 is 40.3 per cent. By property type, the ratio is 28 per cent for detached homes, 51.6 per cent for townhomes, and 49.7 per cent for apartments. 

Generally, analysts say downward pressure on home prices occurs when the ratio dips below 12 per cent for a sustained period, while home prices often experience upward pressure when it surpasses 20 per cent over several months. 

The MLS® Home Price Index composite benchmark price for all residential properties in Metro Vancouver is currently $1,255,200. This represents a 18.5 per cent increase over January 2021 and a two per cent increase compared to December 2021. 

Sales of detached homes in January 2022 reached 622, a 15.9 per cent decrease from the 740 detached sales recorded in January 2021. The benchmark price for a detached home is $1,953,000. This represents a 22.7 per cent increase from January 2021 and a 2.2 per cent increase compared to December 2021. 

Sales of apartment homes reached 1,315 in January 2022, a 10 per cent increase compared to the 1,195 sales in January 2021. The benchmark price of an apartment property is $775,700. This represents a 14 per cent increase from January 2021 and a 1.8 per cent increase compared to December 2021. 

Attached home sales in January 2022 totalled 348, a 23.3 per cent decrease compared to the 454 sales in January 2021. The benchmark price of an attached home is $1,029,500. This represents a 24.3 per cent increase from January 2021 and a 2.5 per cent increase compared to December 2021.

Download the January 2022 stats package.

Listed for $675,000.00

Welcome to Inglenook…

This fabulous bright top floor 2 bedroom & 2 bath condo is a pleasure to show. Functional floorplan with 9-foot ceilings.

Easy care flooring through most of the home with carpet in bedrooms.

Electric fireplace in living room & sliders to a large, covered balcony, with storage alcove.

Stainless steel fridge, gas range & fan in kitchen.

Primary bedroom with walk in closet.

Ensuite with deep soaker tub. Main bath with walk-in shower.

Good size 2nd bedroom.

In suite laundry. 2 pets allowed.

Enjoy the 15,000+ sq ft Canoe Club with outdoor pool/hot tub/gym/guest suites/indoor court/party room + more.

A short stroll to the Skytrain, Brewery Row, Rocky Point Park, Café Divano, Newport Village & Suter Brook for fabulous restaurants & shopping.

Call your Realtor to book a showing.

The common notion that spring is a better time to sell than winter is being challenged by today’s hot seller’s market conditions. A recent Royal LePage survey found that 79% of real estate professionals say they would advise their clients to sell this winter, rather than wait until spring; significantly higher than the 64% who say they would have given that advice prior to the pandemic citing that current demand is outstripping supply in another year of unusual winter market activity.  

If you are considering listing your home this winter season, be sure to review our top ten tips for preparing your home for a winter sale!

1. Include both winter and summer photographs of your home in the listing so prospective buyers can better imagine themselves in the property all year round;
2. Clear a path to the front door and pathways around the home. Make sure the walkway is free of snow and ice; 
3. Turn up the heat in your home to a comfortable temperature;
4. Seal up any drafts in windows and doors;
5. Provide shoe covers or slippers, or lay down a large mat, so visitors don’t leave your floors looking messy for the next appointment. Don’t forget to remove winter boots and coats from your hall to make the area look bigger and so that visitors have a clear space to enter;
6. Up your winter curb appeal: Upgrade your mailbox and house number; add winter floral arrangements with hearty outdoor perennial planters
7. As the days are shorter and it gets dark earlier, keep outdoor lights on during showings; 
8. Whenever possible, show your home during the daytime and let lots of natural light inside;
9. Make the front door and entrance look warm and welcoming with seasonal decor;
10. And, showcase how outdoor spaces can be enjoyed even in the colder months. Be sure to clear off outdoor furniture that can be used in winter.

For more insights from the Royal LePage Winter Market Survey, read the press release here:

 Metro Vancouver home buyers compete for fewer home listings in October

Home sale activity in Metro Vancouver remained above historical averages in October while the overall supply of homes for sale dipped to levels not seen in three years.

The Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver (REBGV) reports that residential home sales in the region totalled 3,494 in October 2021, a 5.2 per cent decrease from the 3,687 sales recorded in October 2020, and an 11 per cent increase from the 3,149 homes sold in September 2021.

Last month’s sales were 22.4 per cent above the 10-year October sales average.

“Home sale activity continues to outpace what’s typical for this time of year and the pool of homes available for sale is in decline. This dynamic between supply and demand is causing home prices to continue to edge up across the region,” Keith Stewart, REBGV economist said.

There were 4,049 detached, attached and apartment properties newly listed for sale on the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in Metro Vancouver in October 2021. This represents a 27.3 per cent decrease compared to the 5,571 homes listed in October 2020 and a 21.7 per cent decrease compared to September 2021 when 5,171 homes were listed.

The total number of homes currently listed for sale on the MLS® system in Metro Vancouver is 8,034, a 35.3 per cent decrease compared to October 2020 (12,416) and a 13 per cent decrease compared to September 2021 (9,236).

“Rising fixed mortgage rates should eventually help ease demand, but for now sales remain strong and buyers with rate holds will remain motivated to find a property for the rest of the year,” Stewart said.

For all property types, the sales-to-active listings ratio for October 2021 is 43.5 per cent. By property type, the ratio is 33.6 per cent for detached homes, 64.4 per cent for townhomes, and 46.7 per cent for apartments.

Generally, analysts say downward pressure on home prices occurs when the ratio dips below 12 per cent for a sustained period, while home prices often experience upward pressure when it surpasses 20 per cent over several months.

The MLS® Home Price Index composite benchmark price for all residential homes in Metro Vancouver is $1,199,400. This represents a 14.7 per cent increase over October 2020 and a 1.1 per cent increase compared to September 2021.

Sales of detached homes in October 2021 reached 1,090, an 18.4 per cent decrease from the 1,335 detached sales recorded in October 2020. The benchmark price for a detached home is $1,850,500. This represents a 20.5 per cent increase from October 2020 and a 1.2 per cent increase compared to September 2021.

Sales of apartment homes reached 1,801 in October 2021, a 14.7 per cent increase compared to the 1,570 sales in October 2020. The benchmark price of an apartment home is $746,400. This represents a 9.5 per cent increase from October 2020 and a 1.1 per cent increase compared to September 2021.

Attached home sales in October 2021 totalled 603, a 22.9 per cent decrease compared to the 782 sales in October 2020. The benchmark price of an attached home is $975,000. This represents an 18.5 per cent increase from October 2020 and a 1.2 per cent increase compared to September 2021.

Download the October 2021 stats package.

Elevated home sale activity continues to outstrip the supply of homes for sale in Metro Vancouver 

Home sale activity remains elevated across Metro Vancouver’s housing market while the pace of homes being listed for sale continues to follow long-term averages.

The Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver (REBGV) reports that residential home sales in the region totalled 3,149 in September 2021, a 13.6 per cent decrease from the 3,643 sales recorded in September 2020, and a 0.1 per cent decrease from the 3,152 homes sold in August 2021. 

Last month’s sales were 20.8 per cent above the 10-year September sales average. 

There were 5,171 detached, attached and apartment properties newly listed for sale on the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in Metro Vancouver in September 2021. This represents a 19.2 per cent decrease compared to the 6,402 homes listed in September 2020 and a 28.2 per cent increase compared to August 2021 when 4,032 homes were listed. 

September’s new listings were 1.2 per cent below the 10-year average for the month. 

“The summer trend of above-average home sales and historically typical new listings activity continued in Metro Vancouver last month. Although this is keeping the overall supply of homes for sale low, we’re not seeing the same upward intensity on home prices today as we did in the spring,” Keith Stewart, REBGV economist said. “Home price trends will, however, vary depending on property type and neighborhood, so it’s important to take a hyperlocal look at your location and property category of choice before making a home buying or selling decision.” 

The total number of homes currently listed for sale on the MLS® system in Metro Vancouver is 9,236. This is a 29.5 per cent decrease compared to September 2020 (13,096), a 2.6 per cent increase compared to August 2021 (9,005) and is 27.7 per cent below the 10-year average for the month. 

For all property types, the sales-to-active listings ratio for September 2021 is 34.1 per cent. By property type, the ratio is 25.5 per cent for detached homes, 53.1 per cent for townhomes, and 36.7 per cent for apartments. 

Generally, analysts say downward pressure on home prices occurs when the ratio dips below 12 per cent for a sustained period, while home prices often experience upward pressure when it surpasses 20 per cent over several months. 

“The total inventory of homes for sale remains insufficient to meet the demand in today’s market. This scarcity limits peoples’ purchasing options and ultimately adds upward pressure on home prices,” Stewart said. “With the federal election now behind us, we hope to see governments at all levels work with the construction industry to streamline the creation of a more abundant and diverse supply of housing options.” 

The MLS® Home Price Index composite benchmark price for all residential properties in Metro Vancouver is currently $ 1,186,100. This represents a 13.8 per cent increase over September 2020 and a 0.8 per cent increase compared to August 2021. 

Sales of detached homes in September 2021 reached 950, a 27.9 per cent decrease from the 1,317 detached sales recorded in September 2020. The benchmark price for a detached home is $1,828,200. This represents a 20.4 per cent increase from September 2020 and a 1.2 per cent increase compared to August 2021. 

Sales of apartment homes reached 1,621 in September 2021, a 1.6 per cent increase compared to the 1,596 sales in September 2020. The benchmark price of an apartment home is $738,600. This represents an 8.4 per cent increase from September 2020 and a 0.5 per cent increase compared to August 2021. 

Attached home sales in September 2021 totalled 578, a 20.8 per cent decrease compared to the 730 sales in September 2020. The benchmark price of an attached home is $963,800. This represents a 17.5 per cent increase from September 2020 and a 1.2 per cent increase compared to August 2021.

Download the September 2021 stats package.

Classic European inspired executive home on 1 acre stand alone lot offering privacy & peaceful environment not far from the bustle of city life. Situated on a gently sloping lot on the prestigious Uplands Drive that offers many benefits including sweeping mountainside views, private forest pathways, low outdoor maintenance & with French doors leading to huge outdoor decks for entertaining you will not know there are neighbors nearby. Encompassing features like indoor & inground sprinklers, aircon & heat pump, large master suite with walk in closet & cozy fire, custom fitted window blinds, elegant moldings, beautiful wooden floors & walk out basement with 9ft ceiling, private balcony 2 bdrms & oversized rec room pre plumbed/wired for kitchen installation/suite potential.

https://www.dropbox.com/s/rgbw4ba46fzhh8c/1065%20Uplands%20Dr%2C%20Anmore.mp4?dl=0

This fantastic property will allow, when completed, 3 RS-8 lots on cul-de-sac street. Spectacular location and opportunity. All costs for subdividing to be paid by the buyer. Please do not walk on property.

http://www.listings.360hometours.ca/15764

Welcome to Windsor Gardens, a unique boutique condo building with only 12 units. This cute 1 bedroom & 1 bath garden condo on the 1st floor with a large, fenced yard. The garden area with its patio is one of the best features of this condo. Private side entrance or front entrance. Living room & dining room have wood floors & large windows. Gas fireplace. White kitchen & appliances. Cute bedroom. 4 piece bathroom. In suite storage & in suite laundry. Enjoy sitting on the patio or if you like to garden this is the place for you. Minutes away from the VCC-Clark Skytrain Station & across the street is China Creek Park North. Rentals allowed, so this condo makes a great investment property. Quick completion possible. Don’t miss your chance to own a great condo in a fabulous location.

http://share.jumptools.com/studioSlideshow.do?collateralId=226068&t=2918&b=1

Summer sees home listing supply decline across Metro Vancouver

While home buyers have remained active in Metro Vancouver throughout the summer, the supply of homes for sale has declined steadily since June.

The Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver (REBGV) reports that residential home sales in the region totalled 3,152 in August 2021, a 3.4 per cent increase from the 3,047 sales recorded in August 2020, and a 5.2 per cent decrease from the 3,326 homes sold in July 2021.

Last month’s sales were 20.4 per cent above the 10-year August sales average.

“August was busier than expected, and listings activity isn’t keeping up with the pace of demand. This is leaving the market under supplied.” said Keith Stewart, REBGV economist. 

There were 4,032 detached, attached and apartment properties newly listed for sale on the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in Metro Vancouver in August 2021. This represents a 30.6 per cent decrease compared to the 5,813 homes listed in August 2020 and a 7.9 per cent decrease compared to July 2021 when 4,377 homes were listed.

The total number of homes currently listed for sale on the MLS® system in Metro Vancouver is 9,005, a 29.7 per cent decrease compared to August 2020 (12,803) and an 8.6 per cent decrease compared to July 2021 (9,850).

“Housing supply is the biggest factor impacting the market right now. To help relieve pressure on prices and improve peoples’ home buying options, the market needs a more abundant supply of homes for sale.” Stewart said. “Housing affordability has been a key issue in the federal election. We encourage the political parties to focus on policy solutions that will help streamline the creation of more diverse housing options for hopeful home buyers today and into the future.” 

For all property types, the sales-to-active listings ratio for August 2021 is 35 per cent. By property type, the ratio is 25.3 per cent for detached homes, 51.8 per cent for townhomes, and 39.2 per cent for apartments. 

Generally, analysts say downward pressure on home prices occurs when the ratio dips below 12 per cent for a sustained period, while home prices often experience upward pressure when it surpasses 20 per cent over several months.

“When assessing the market, it’s important to understand that while year-over-year price increases have reached double digits, most of the increases happened three or more months ago,” Stewart said. “To better understand the latest home price trends in your preferred location and home type, talk with your local REALTOR®.”

The MLS® Home Price Index composite benchmark price for all residential properties in Metro Vancouver is currently $1,176,600. This represents a 13.2 per cent increase over August 2020 and a 0.1 per cent increase compared to July 2021.

Sales of detached homes in August 2021 reached 945, a 13.7 per cent decrease from the 1,095 detached sales recorded in August 2020. The benchmark price for a detached home is $1,807,100. This represents a 20.4 per cent increase from August 2020 and a 0.3 per cent increase compared to July 2021.

Sales of apartment homes reached 1,631 in August 2021, a 22.4 per cent increase compared to the 1,332 sales in August 2020. The benchmark price of an apartment property is $735,100. This represents a 7.6 per cent increase from August 2020 and a 0.2 per cent decrease compared to July 2021.

Attached home sales in August 2021 totalled 576, a 7.1 per cent decrease compared to the 620 sales in August 2020. The benchmark price of an attached home is $952,600. This represents a 16.5 per cent increase from August 2020 and a 0.3 per cent increase compared to July 2021.

Download the August 2021 stats package.

Fabulous Rancher style home.

This lovely home has a large living room with French Doors, bay window and gas fireplace.

Dining room is perfect for entertaining. Solid wood cabinets, stone counters and garden window.

Eating area with bayed window.

The family room has a gas fireplace and sliders that lead out to a cover patio with stamped concrete.

This area is perfect for multi season dining.

Large principle bedroom with a walk in closet. The ensuite has a large walk-in shower.

The two other bedrooms are a good size. Four-piece main bath, the bathrooms have been updated through the years.

The laundry room leads to the double garage, with high ceiling.

Extra large crawl space for all your storage.

Beautiful, landscaped backyard.

The gazebo is pre-wired and is perfect for seasonal storage or hot tub or green house or a SHE shed.

This home is very clean and has been lovely care for through the years.

http://www.listings.360hometours.ca/15757

More than one in ten homeowners in Canada’s three largest urban centres owns multiple properties

Highlights:

• 14% of homeowners in Greater Vancouver, 13% in the Greater Toronto Area and 12% in the Greater Montreal Area own more than one property
• More than 40% of secondary property owners in the greater regions of Vancouver and Toronto, and 21% in the Greater Montreal Area, used equity from their primary residence to make the purchase
• 65% of secondary property owners in Greater Vancouver, 64% in the Greater Toronto Area and 35% in the Greater Montreal Area, are collecting rental income, at least some of the time

TORONTO, July 28, 2021 –

According to a recent Royal LePage survey[1] of 1,500 homeowners in Canada’s three largest urban centres – Greater Toronto Area (GTA), Greater Montreal Area (GMA) and Greater Vancouver (GV) – more than ten per cent of Canadians polled currently own more than one property (13% in GTA, 12% in GMA, 14% in GV).

“While some secondary properties are used for recreational purposes, many of these homes are foundational to Canada’s critical supply of rental housing,” said Phil Soper, president and CEO, Royal LePage. “Entrepreneurial landlords supply housing to the thirty per cent of Canadians who rent, be they new immigrants, students, young people entering the labour force, or those who cannot or choose not to own their home.”

Twenty-one per cent of secondary property owners in the Greater Montreal Area say they used equity from their primary residence to complete the purchase. That number doubles (42%) in the greater regions of Toronto and Vancouver, where home prices are significantly higher.

When asked about the purpose of their secondary properties, more than two thirds of respondents in Greater Vancouver (65%) and the Greater Toronto Area (64%) said they were collecting rental income, if only some of the time. In the Greater Montreal Area, that number decreased to 35 per cent.

Witnessing home values across the country rising to new heights, younger Canadians who are financially able to purchase one home are confident in purchasing a secondary property as an investment. Eighteen per cent of homeowners aged 18 to 35 in the Greater Toronto Area own more than one property. In the Greater Montreal Area and Greater Vancouver, 16 per cent and 14 per cent of that age group own more than one property, respectively.   

Greater Toronto Area

In the Greater Toronto Area, 27 per cent of secondary property owners said they were not collecting any rental income at all, while 49 per cent said they are using the unit solely as a rental property. Fifteen per cent said they were using the property some of the time and renting it out some of the time. Seven per cent of respondents said their secondary properties are currently vacant.

“Canadian homeowners believe in the value of real estate because they have seen their investments grow over time,” said Karen Millar, sales representative, Royal LePage Signature Realty. “People feel confident investing in real estate because it is a physical entity that they can experience. Although the market may see peaks and valleys, homes have historically generated wealth in the long run.”

In the Greater Toronto Area, 18 per cent of homeowners aged 18 to 35 currently own more than one property, while 11 per cent of homeowners over the age of 35 own more than one property.

“Young buyers are looking to capitalize on the real estate market by investing in a property that will appreciate over time. I have many younger clients who have purchased condos or smaller homes for as little as $300,000 outside of Toronto, in areas like Guelph and London, where the rental market is very active among students,” added Millar.

“Parents of students in Ontario’s university towns are also taking advantage of the local rental market, purchasing a property – often times with multiple units – for their children to stay in while studying and also as a source of rental income from other students.”

A recent Royal LePage survey of Canadian boomers (chart), those born between 1946 and 1965, found that 54 per cent of the cohort in the Greater Toronto Area have at least half (50%) of their net wealth in real estate. Twenty-nine per cent say they have or would consider gifting or loaning money to a child to help with the purchase of a home. Another Royal LePage survey of Canadians aged 25 to 35 (chart) found that 93 per cent of the Torontonians in this age group consider home ownership a good financial investment.

Greater Montreal Area

In the Greater Montreal Area, where properties are more affordable than in the other two major urban centres surveyed, 37 per cent of secondary property owners said they were not collecting any rental income at all, while 25 per cent said they are using the unit solely as a rental property. Nine per cent said they were using the property some of the time and renting it out some of the time. Four per cent of respondents said their secondary properties are currently vacant.

“Among secondary property owners in Montreal, the majority are using the properties for leisure, like recreational purposes, rather than as an investment,” said Roseline Guèvremont, real estate broker, Royal LePage Tendance. “In Toronto and Vancouver, where prices have been soaring for several years, homeowners have been taking advantage of the significant equity in their primary residences in order to purchase a secondary property, and renting it out at least part of the time as an investment. In Montreal, although the real estate market has begun to catch up in recent years, prices remain considerably more affordable, so buyers can purchase without necessarily leveraging equity from a primary residence.”

In the Greater Montreal Area, 16 per cent of homeowners aged 18 to 35 currently own more than one property, while 11 per cent of homeowners over the age of 35 own more than one property.

Guèvremont noted that younger buyers are becoming more and more interested in owning property, whether to improve their quality of life, to generate new sources of revenue, or to have new experiences.

“Confidence in the Montreal real estate market has continued to rise in recent years, and many clients have expressed to me their preference to invest in brick and mortar properties. For younger buyers, it’s much more straightforward than investing in the stock market.

“With the return of in-person classes this fall and the opening of the border to U.S. visitors, demand is already being renewed in the rental market,” said Guèvremont. “Montreal’s real estate investors had a tough time generating profits from their units over the last year due to COVID-19.”

A recent Royal LePage survey of Canadian boomers (chart), those born between 1946 and 1965, found that 41 per cent of the cohort in the Greater Montreal Area have at least half (50%) of their net wealth in real estate. Twenty-four per cent say they have or would consider gifting or loaning money to a child to help with the purchase of a home. Another Royal LePage survey of Canadians aged 25 to 35 (chart) found that 92 per cent of Montrealers in this age group consider home ownership a good financial investment.

Greater Vancouver

In Greater Vancouver, 27 per cent of secondary property owners said they were not collecting any rental income at all, while 51 per cent said they are using the unit solely as a rental property. Thirteen per cent said they were using the property some of the time and renting it out some of the time. Seven per cent of respondents said their secondary properties are currently vacant.

“Real estate is an integral part of retirement planning for many Vancouver homeowners,” said Caroline Baile, real estate broker, Royal LePage Sussex. “While some are using their secondary properties, possibly a cottage or a ski chalet, many of those with multiple homes are looking to build future equity as a means of sustaining a desired lifestyle down the road. Investment properties are not likely being used to subsidize monthly income, but are seen as a long-term investment.”

In Greater Vancouver, the country’s most expensive city to buy real estate, 14 per cent of homeowners aged 18 to 35 currently own more than one property. Similarly, 14 per cent of homeowners over the age of 35 own more than one property.

“Younger Canadians are sitting in the driver’s seat of their own futures. They are very business savvy, and have a clear idea of what they want their retirement years to look like. Young people today put a lot of emphasis on work-life balance. They want their money to work for them, and they recognize that investing in real estate has the potential for great returns,” continued Baile. “While so many young Canadians struggle to enter the real estate market, those fortunate enough to do so, whether on their own or with financial support from their parents, will reap the benefits in the future.”

A recent Royal LePage survey of Canadian boomers (chart), those born between 1946 and 1965, found that 40 per cent of the cohort in Greater Vancouver have at least half (50%) of their net wealth in real estate. Thirty-four per cent say they have or would consider gifting or loaning money to a child to help with the purchase of a home. Another Royal LePage survey of Canadians aged 25 to 35 (chart) found that 90 per cent of Greater Vancouver residents in this age group consider home ownership a good financial investment.

Royal LePage 2021 Secondary Properties Report Chart: rlp.ca/table_secondarypropertiesreport2021 

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About Royal LePage

Serving Canadians since 1913, Royal LePage is the country’s leading provider of services to real estate brokerages, with a network of over 18,000 real estate professionals in over 600 locations nationwide. Royal LePage is the only Canadian real estate company to have its own charitable foundation, the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation, dedicated to supporting women’s and children’s shelters and educational programs aimed at ending domestic violence. Royal LePage is a Bridgemarq Real Estate Services Inc. company, a TSX-listed corporation trading under the symbol TSX:BRE. For more information, please visit www.royallepage.ca.

Mirroring the weather, Fraser Valley’s hot housing market cooled slightly in June going from a boil to a simmer

Metro Vancouver’s housing market sets a steady, calmer pace to begin the summer season

While still elevated, home sale and listing activity in Metro Vancouver* has eased back from the record-setting pace seen in March and April of this year.

The Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver (REBGV) reports that residential home sales in the region totalled 3,762 in June 2021, a 54 per cent increase from the 2,443 sales recorded in June 2020, and an 11.9 per cent decrease from the 4,268 homes sold in May 2021.

Last month’s sales were 18.4 per cent above the 10-year June sales average.

“Metro Vancouver’s housing market continues to experience strong seller’s market conditions, although the intensity of demand has eased from what we saw throughout most of the spring,” Keith Stewart, REBGV economist said. “The past two months have shown a market that’s shifting toward more historically typical conditions.”

There were 5,849 detached, attached and apartment properties newly listed for sale on the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in Metro Vancouver in June 2021. This represents a 1.1 per cent increase compared to the 5,787 homes listed in June 2020 and a 17.9 per cent decrease compared to May 2021 when 7,125 homes were listed.

The total number of homes currently listed for sale on the MLS® system in Metro Vancouver is 10,839, a 5.1 per cent decrease compared to June 2020 (11,424) and a 1.2 per cent decrease compared to May 2021 (10,970).

“With low interest rates, a growing economy and an improving job market, the Metro Vancouver housing market continues to enjoy solid economic fundamentals,” Stewart said. “We’re now seeing a market that’s beginning to normalize from the torrid pace in the spring. This is making multiple offers less common, allowing subjects to be seen on offers more frequently again, and is making new price records less likely.”

For all property types, the sales-to-active listings ratio for June 2021 is 34.7 per cent. By property type, the ratio is 27.5 per cent for detached homes, 49.2 per cent for townhomes, and 37.1 per cent for apartments.

Generally, analysts say downward pressure on home prices occurs when the ratio dips below 12 per cent for a sustained period, while home prices often experience upward pressure when it surpasses 20 per cent over several months.

The MLS® Home Price Index composite benchmark price for all residential properties in Metro Vancouver is currently $1,175,100. This represents a 14.5 per cent increase over June 2020 and a 0.2 per cent increase compared to May 2021.

Sales of detached homes in June 2021 reached 1,262, a 45.7 per cent increase from the 866 detached sales recorded in June 2020. The benchmark price for detached properties is $1,801,100. This represents a 22 per cent increase from June 2020 and is virtually unchanged from May 2021.

Sales of apartment homes reached 1,774 in June 2021, a 60.5 per cent increase compared to the 1,105 sales in June 2020. The benchmark price of an apartment is $737,600. This represents a 8.9 per cent increase from June 2020 and a 0.1 per cent increase compared to May 2021.

Attached home sales in June 2021 totalled 726, a 53.8 per cent increase compared to the 472 sales in June 2020. The benchmark price of an attached home is $946,900. This represents a 17.4 per cent increase from June 2020 and a 1.1 per cent increase compared to May 2021.

Download the June 2021 stats package.