February 2025

Is selling your house in British Columbia without a real estate agent the key to a profitable sale or a potential disaster? On one hand, you can save on commission fees and maintain full control over the process. On the other, you may face limited marketing reach and the challenge of pricing your home competitively—two of the keys to marketing your home to sell. Steering through these waters requires thorough preparation and strategic planning. 

Have you considered the pros and cons between cost savings and potential pitfalls? Understanding the intricacies of BC's real estate market is the key to a successful sale. Dive in and discover whether selling your house without a real estate agent is right for you. 

For informational purposes only.

Construction loans are specialized financing tools for custom, new build homes. Unlike traditional mortgages, these loans disburse funds incrementally as construction milestones are met, which allows builders to access the necessary capital at each stage of development while minimizing upfront financial risk. 

This structured funding approach is crucial for custom home construction because it ensures that money is available to cover the evolving costs of building a home, helps manage cash flow effectively, and provides a clear framework for monitoring progress and ensuring that the project stays on budget. However, they have stricter qualification criteria, including a strong credit score, detailed plans, and a 20%–30% down payment. Are construction

Deciding to sell or rent your property involves a complex set of decisions. On the one hand, renting out your old home could offer a steady income stream and potential appreciation, but it also means landlord responsibilities and susceptibility to market fluctuations. Plus, in order to secure a mortgage for your new house, you’ll need to keep your debt-to-income ratio in mind. Selling, meanwhile, can provide immediate funds but might not maximize your property's value. How do tax implications, financial goals, and lifestyle ambitions weigh into this decision? It's essential to assess these factors thoroughly to determine the best path for your situation.

For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed real estate professional before

Building a home in Canada comes with a wide range of costs influenced by factors like location, materials, square footage, and design choices. Prices can vary significantly between provinces and even between urban and rural areas. Understanding these regional differences and knowing how to estimate construction expenses can help you budget more effectively and avoid unexpected costs. Break down exactly what goes into the price of building a home so you can make more informed decisions about new construction homes.

For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed local home builder for accurate project estimates.

5 Tips For Estimating Construction Costs

• Construction costs in Canada range from $100 to $300 per sq. ft., varying

Building a house in Canada is an exciting but complex journey that requires careful planning, the right team, and an understanding of local building regulations. Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy cottage with lake views or a modern home in the city, the process involves several key steps—from choosing the perfect location to securing permits and working with the best builders. This guide covers everything you need to know to bring your vision to life, making the process of building your own home as smooth and stress-free as possible. 

For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed real estate professional before proceeding with any real estate transaction.

How to Build a House in Canada: Key Takeaways

• You’ll need to ensure

Some homeowners opt to renovate their existing home instead of buying a pre-construction home. If you're thinking about extending your home, it’s essential to understand the many costs involved. It's not just the size of the extension that matters; complexity and location also play significant roles. Plus, making sense of permits and unexpected expenses can seem overwhelming. To make informed decisions, it’s worth digging into what factors shape these costs and uncovering some budget-friendly strategies while you’re at it.

Home Extension Costs to Know

• Single-storey extensions typically range from $200 to $500 per square foot.
• Second-storey extensions can cost $210 to $480 per square foot, with higher expenses often coming from the first

A pre-construction home is a property that is sold by a developer before it is built, allowing buyers to purchase based on floor plans, renderings, and project details rather than a finished structure. Whether you're a first-time buyer, an investor, or someone looking to customize your dream home from the ground up, pre-construction properties offer a chance to secure a brand-new home before it’s even built. Learn about the benefits and risks, payment structures, and builder warranties so you can confidently purchase a brand-new home.

For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed real estate professional before proceeding with any real estate transaction.

5 Things to Know About Pre-Construction Homes

• Pre-construction homes

Taking the plunge into buying a new construction home might feel like a significant life change, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming. With the right guidance, you can smoothly navigate through the maze of choices and decisions that await. When buying a new home, you’ll want to start by exploring the various home types available, each offering a list of unique benefits. Next, there's the important task of selecting a builder with a solid reputation and evaluating their benefits. However, before you start shopping for new construction homes, it's important to consider the financial journey tied to the process.

For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed real estate professional before proceeding with any real estate

When considering where you might want to call home, you'll find a variety of types and ownership models to explore. From charming bungalows to sleek contemporary designs, each option offers its own set of perks and challenges. But it's not just about the style; ownership models like freehold, leasehold, or co-operative can impact your lifestyle and financial goals. Let’s weigh the benefits of traditional single-family homes versus innovative multi-family residences.

What Kinds of Homes & Homeownership Are There?

• Bungalows and ranch homes offer single-story living with open floor plans, ideal for families and retirees.
• Colonial and Victorian homes provide ample space and historical charm, appealing to traditional homebuyers.
• Contemporary

Kelowna’s world-class wineries may have earned this stunning city notoriety, but its lesser-known but equally innovative distilleries also have a lot to offer. From Urban Distilleries & Winery's award-winning spirits to Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery's dedication to local ingredients, each distillery offers a unique experience. Forbidden Spirits Distilling Co. takes a creative twist with apple-based concoctions. Discover Kelowna’s top best distilleries and the stories behind their craft that make each spot unique.

Highlights of Kelowna Distilleries

• Urban Distilleries & Winery offers award-winning spirits and engaging tasting experiences with a focus on sustainability.
• Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery is a pioneer with more than 30