livingmain.com

New Blog location

2011-12-14T13:01:00.000-08:00

I have a new website and blog that I'm pretty excited about! Follow me here:

http://www.livingmain.com/blog/category

Difficult to find 2bedrooms that shows this well...

2011-09-27T11:40:00.000-07:00

Top floor, east and west exposure, pets allowed. 2 bedrooms on the West side of Vancouver for under $500k!

Another opportunity...photos coming later today

2011-09-22T09:32:00.000-07:00

Conveniently located to Canada Line, shopping and YVR

New listing!

2011-09-22T09:29:00.000-07:00

This is a beauty! Great for investors or your first home!

Fun at the Autumn Festival!

2011-09-17T14:46:00.001-07:00

Autumn Shift festival on now!

2011-09-17T12:58:00.000-07:00

The rain has stopped! Come on down and check it out!

Vancouver's second oldest house to come down

2011-09-09T11:49:00.000-07:00

http://ca.news.yahoo.com/vancouvers-second-oldest-house-demolished-171612438.html

August sales statistics

2011-09-02T15:51:00.001-07:00

http://www.rebgv.org/sites/default/files/REBGV%20Stats%20Pkg%20August%202011.pdf

New listing and open house - almost at Main:)

2011-09-02T11:05:00.000-07:00

http://livingmain.com/mylistings.html#302-777-7TH-Avenue-West-Vancouver-mylistings-20544243.property

The view from OnQue...

2011-08-16T10:10:00.000-07:00

Thanks to James M, sales staff extraordinaire for the tour with my clients yesterday!

Challenges of the first time home buyer

2011-08-10T15:42:00.000-07:00

Brain food while discussing the challenges for first time home buyers in Vancouver with Lysa the mortgage broker. The spinach and cheese omelette at the Well on Main Street was fabulous!

REBGV July 2011 Housing Market Update

2011-08-08T11:30:00.000-07:00

Looking for an apartment downtown Vancouver?

2011-08-04T13:51:00.000-07:00

Perfect if you are just getting into the market for yourself or to rent out. Conveniently located across from the library and blocks to skytrain!

See photos and details here:

http://livingmain.com/mylistings.html

Thanks for looking!

Vancouver market update

2011-08-04T13:46:00.000-07:00

Active home sellers bring greater selection to the Greater Vancouver housing market

While the balance between home buyer and seller activity remains in an equilibrium range in the Greater Vancouver housing market, last month’s home sale total was below the 10-year average for July.

The Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver (REBGV) reports that residential property sales of detached, attached and apartment properties on the region’s Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) reached 2,571 in July, a 14 per cent increase compared to the 2,255 sales in July 2010 and a 21.2 per cent decline compared to the 3,262 sales in June 2011.

“We’re seeing less multiple offer situations in the market today compared to the last few months, but our members tell us that homes priced competitively continue to sell at a relatively swift pace,” Rosario Setticasi, REBGV president said. “It’s taking, on average, 41 days to sell a property in the region, which is unchanged from June of this year.”

New listings for detached, attached and apartment properties in Greater Vancouver totalled 5,097 in July. This represents a 23.2 per cent increase compared to July 2010 when 4,138 properties were listed for sale on the MLS® and a 12 per cent decline compared to the 5,793 new listings reported in June 2011.

Last month’s new listing total was 8.6 per cent higher than the 10-year average for July, while residential sales were 17.3 per cent below the ten-year average for sales in July.

At 15,226, the total number of residential property listings on the MLS® increased 0.8 per cent in July compared to last month and declined 7.3 per cent from this time last year.

“The number of homes listed for sale in the region has increased each month since the start of the year, which is giving buyers more selection to choose from and more time to make decisions,” Rosario Setticasi, REBGV president said.

The MLSLink® Housing Price Index (HPI) benchmark price for all residential properties in Greater Vancouver over the last 12 months has increased 9.2 per cent to $630,251 in July 2011 from $577,074 in July 2010.

Sales of detached properties on the MLS® in July 2011 reached 1,099, an increase of 21 per cent from the 908 detached sales recorded in July 2010, and an 31.9 per cent decrease from the 1,614 units sold in July 2009. The benchmark price for detached properties increased 13.3 per cent from July 2010 to $898,886.

Sales of apartment properties reached 1,040 in July 2011, a 6.2 per cent increase compared to the 979 sales in July 2010, and a decrease of 39.1 per cent compared to the 1,708 sales in July 2009. The benchmark price of an apartment property increased 4.5 per cent from July 2010 to $405,306.

Attached property sales in July 2011 totalled 432, a 17.4 per cent increase compared to the 368 sales in July 2010, and a 45.5 per cent decrease from the 792 attached properties sold in July 2009. The benchmark price of an attached unit increased 6.9 per cent between July 2010 and 2011 to $524,909.

Vancouver events, things to do, dining and hotels

2011-07-27T09:41:00.000-07:00

Vancouver events, things to do, dining and hotels

Looking for something different to do this weekend?

2011-07-21T14:41:00.000-07:00

Livable Laneways on Main Street

Main Street homes

2011-07-17T22:12:00.000-07:00

Mount Pleasant Park tree removal

2011-07-16T16:25:00.000-07:00

Here's your chance to speak up. A large oak tree is about to be removed in the park as it apparently is necessary to finish repairs to the Cambie Trunk Sewer.

There is an information meeting happening this Tuesday, July 19th at Mount Pleasant Park from 5-6pm.

Hope to see you there! (I still miss the old swimming pool...)

New office

2011-07-14T14:23:00.003-07:00

Settling in to the new digs at RE/MAX Select at 4806 Main Street.

Just saw them live at the Montmartre on Main Street...fabulous!

2011-06-28T11:17:00.000-07:00

The Cheaper Show - June 25, 6pm-midnight

2011-06-22T10:04:00.000-07:00

This is a great opportunity to support our local artists. Thanks to Marilyn and Donna at Arabella Fashions for the heads up!

http://thecheapershow.com/show/main-street/

Car Free Day - Fun with Bubbles!

2011-06-22T10:02:00.000-07:00

Main Street Car Free Day - June 19

2011-06-14T21:29:00.000-07:00

Preparation for Car Free day has begun! I'm looking forward to playing with the new bubble machine on Sunday --- make sure to drop by our table at 28th and Main this Sunday.

The new majority government and real estate

2011-06-02T14:53:00.000-07:00

http://www.macrealty.com/macnews/newsletter.aspx?agent=Sandra_Ens

Property Tax time :)

2011-05-27T10:41:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again... time to celebrate home ownership in the beautiful city of Vancouver!

Pay up the easy way at www.vancouver.ca/propertytax

And don't forget to claim any homeowner grants that you may qualify for:

http://vancouver.ca/fs/treasury/ehog.htm

Mount Pleasant/Main Street rezoning changes

2011-04-07T14:51:00.001-07:00

Stay in the know of changes in the Main Street neighbourhood. Attend the public open house is on Tuesday, April 12 from 4:00pm-9:00pm at Heritage Hall.

Part of the proposed change is a 26 story highrise, as well as midrise market and rental homes, community space and retail space.

http://vancouver.ca/commsvcs/planning/rezoning/applications/228-246ebway/index.htm

New listing at 388 East 43rd Ave

2011-04-06T16:40:00.000-07:00

Fabulous 3 level, 3 bedroom, character home in a much sought after main area. School district of the very popular "Van Horne" School. Recent renovations in the last few years include a new kitchen, double glazed windows and roof. Upper level, master bedroom plus ensuite and den, main floor, bedroom, bathroom, bright and sunny kitchen with island and eating area, living room with fireplace and dining room. Bonus one bedroom basement suite. Lovely gardens - Very special home - A pleasure to show. Open house Saturday April 9th, 2-4pm.

Proposed development in Mount Pleasant

2011-03-20T17:21:00.000-07:00

I just came back from an afternoon workshop regarding the proposed new development at the intersection of Broadway/Kingsway/Watson/10th Ave. Approximately 180 area residents and business owners attended to give their input and ask questions. Biggest concern? The 26 story tower to be built.

You can see the plans here:

http://vancouver.ca/commsvcs/planning/rezoning/applications/228-246ebway/index.htm

New shop on Main Street

2010-02-09T14:54:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Arabella! A new boutique in Vancouver's trendy SoMa that sells women's clothing both new and on consignment. Owners Marilyn and Donna are thrilled to be in SoMa and look forward to meeting you! They are located in the old Hot Box Accessories location at 2560 Main Street. Click the link for details on their grand opening Sunday, February 14th.

http://smilebox.com/playEmail/4d5451334e7a67304f5456384d7a49334f5451354f44453d0d0a&sb=1

January 2010 stats from the REBGV

2010-02-03T11:36:00.000-08:00

February 2, 2010

REBGV Stats

Housing supply and demand reach closer alignment in January

Diverse selection and favourable interest rates continue to drive demand in the Greater Vancouver housing market.

The Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver (REBGV) reports that residential property sales in Greater Vancouver totalled 1,923 in January 2010, an increase of 152.4 per cent compared to January 2009 when 762 sales were recorded and a 23.5 per cent decline compared to the 2,515 sales recorded in December 2009.

In terms of historical perspective, January ranked as an average month for number of residential housing sales over the past decade, with higher sales in January 2002, 2003, 2004, and 2006.

Over the last 12 months, the MLSLink® Housing Price Index (HPI) benchmark price for all residential properties in Greater Vancouver increased 17.2 per cent to $573,241 from $489,007 in January 2009. This price is 0.8 per cent above the previous high point in the market in May 2008 when the residential benchmark price sat at $568,411.

“Although home prices in the region have largely returned to their previous peaks, we still see a significant number of first-time and move-up buyers in the market, thanks to low interest rates and the diverse range of properties available today,” Jake Moldowan, REBGV president-elect said.

“There is also closer alignment between supply and demand in today’s housing market. At 18 per cent, the sales-to-active listings ratio in January is approximately 10 per cent lower than we’ve seen in our market over the last six months,” Moldowan said.

New listings for detached, attached and apartment properties in Greater Vancouver totalled 5,147 in January 2010. This represents a 39.1 per cent increase compared to January 2009 when 3,700 new units were listed, and a 139.1 per cent increase compared to December 2009 when 2,153 properties were listed on the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in Greater Vancouver.

At 10,218, the total number of property listings on the MLS® increased 14 per cent in January compared to last month and declined 26 per cent from this time last year.

“Looking ahead, it’s difficult to know exactly what the Olympic effect will be on our market in February, although I think it’s fair to say it should be a quieter period for home buyers and sellers and so, in fact, may be a good time for motivated buyers to search for properties,” Moldowan said.

In January, sales of detached properties increased 141.4 per cent to 705 from the 292 detached sales recorded during the same period in 2009. The benchmark price, as calculated by the MLSLink® Housing Price Index, for detached properties increased 19.5 per cent from January 2009 to $788,499.

Sales of apartment properties in January 2010 increased 146.8 per cent to 891 compared to 361 sales in January 2009. The benchmark price of an apartment property increased 15.2 per cent from January 2009 to $385,487.

Attached property sales in January 2010 are up 200 per cent to 327, compared with the 109 sales in January 2009. The benchmark price of an attached unit increased 13.4 per cent between January 2009 and 2010 to $482,478.  

Free things to do during the Olympics

2010-01-28T11:12:00.000-08:00

If you don't have tickets to any events (like myself), but would like to join in the Olympic spirit, go to http://www.citycaucus.com/2010freevenues.

Are you planning to join in the fun, leave town, or just stay at home?

Christmas on Main

2010-01-01T21:44:00.000-08:00

Main Street listings

2009-12-13T16:29:00.000-08:00

Well, I'm up to date with new listings in Main Street/Mount Pleasant. I just got back from a tour of open houses. Call for an update.

Sandra

Variable mortgage update

2009-12-08T13:42:00.000-08:00

Hi all,

Here is some thoughts on whether to lock in.

As expected by most economists, the Bank of Canada announced this morning that it will leave its key interest rate unchanged at its all-time low. The Bank also reiterated its commitment to hold its key rate at the current level until the end of the second quarter of 2010, conditional on the outlook for inflation. In its statement the Bank noted that “While significant fragilities remain, global economic developments have been slightly more positive and the global outlook has improved modestly.”

If you missed my newsletter and the Vancouver Sun West Coast Homes section of Saturday, November 28^th, we provided some very useful tips for those of you that are taking advantage of your ultra-low variable rates:

When Should We Lock In Our Variable Rate Mortgage?

One of the questions we get asked THE most often is, "When should we lock in our Variable Rate Mortgage?"

Unfortunately, there is no clear-cut answer for this. What I can tell you is that it's really up to you and your ability to tolerate the possibility of a fixed rate payment between 2 and 3% greater than what you are currently paying.

Some of you have a rate as low as 1.25% (Gasp!).
So you'll be asking, "How can I even think of locking in now, when I'm saving so MUCH money?"

You might consider locking in now, because fixed rates are at a historical low. Locking in would be the "safe, wise and responsible" choice because interest rates WILL increase!

Let's face it though, you knew when you decided to go variable, you knew you were taking a risk. A river boat gambler of sorts. So why stop now?

Well, as the old song by Kenny Rogers goes:

You got to know when to hold 'em, know when to fold 'em,
Know when to walk away, know when to run.
You never count your money when you're sitting at the table.
There'll be time enough for counting when the dealings done.

Think about this for a moment; the average mortgage size in Vancouver is about $265,000.00. If you are floating on a variable rate mortgage at prime minus .75 for example, or 1.5%, you are paying about $1059.00 per month based on a 25 year amortization. Choosing to lock in at today's best rates of about 4% would cause this payment to balloon to 1393.00 a month. This is an increase of about 32%! If you are living on the west side, a 32% increase on a $500,000.00 mortgage is over $630.00 a month. To put it into perspective; that's your groceries, gas and hydro allowance all rolled into one.

This is how much more most consumers are paying with a fixed rate mortgage.

How can you be "responsible" AND take advantage of borrowing near-free money?

First of all you have to understand that interest rates will eventually rise! Then you need to take the steps that allow you to BENEFIT from the lower borrowing costs:

Ask your lender to increase your minimum payment by the maximum annual allowable. This is based on your original mortgage balance and you can increase by up to 25 % per calendar year under some lender guidelines.

Check your flexibility features of your mortgage or give us a call to confirm. This will not only reduce you amortization significantly but better prepare you for the increase in payment that you will expect once prime goes up, or when you choose to lock in.

The extra 15 to 25% increase will be applied directly toward principal.
If you can afford to and would like to get more aggressive toward paying down your mortgage while your interest is extremely low, you can ask you lender to take the current fixed rate and apply it to your payment schedule.

For example, If the current fixed rate for 5 years offered by your lender is 4.19%, you could ask that your payment be set to that rate. Because you are only being charged your VRM interest rate, a much greater ratio of your payment will be applied towards the principal portion. By doing this you will substantially reduce your amortization.
At the very least, you should make weekly or bi-weekly accelerated payments. Every lender allows this, and it will knock substantial years off your amortization. All it takes is one quick phone call.

By taking any one of the three steps outlined above, you will leverage the low interest rates and pay down your mortgage faster. Since you will be making the same level of payment you would be making at a fixed rate, there will be NO shock when you want to or have to lock in.

If you want to discuss your current mortgage situation, please give us a call.

For current fixed and variable rates, please click below:

http://www.averbachmortgages.com/rates.php

See industry article below from the Globe and Mail:

Canucks games at 8 1/2 Restuarant

2009-10-19T09:57:00.001-07:00

Hi Everyone,

Just wanted to share my weekend! It involved good food, cheap drinks and Canucks hockey!
I was at 8 1/2 Restaurant located 1/2 block west of Main and 8th Avenue. Wow the atmosphere was great and what a great place to hang em up with your buddies and watch the game. Food was quick and tasted great and the Thai buckets came in handy!

Also if you ever watch a 'Nucks games at 8 1/2 make sure you get a Canucks player card. If the Canuck you pick scores a goal, you get a free beer!

I'd recommend the Steak bites.....soooo yummy!

Cheers!

Jason

Person's Day at Hycroft

2009-10-16T21:38:00.000-07:00

Livingmain.com is sponsoring the Person's Day event tomorrow. Come and celebrate how far we women have come! I have an extra ticket, so let me know if you can make it. It is sure to be an inspiring day, with speaker such as Maureen Fitzgerald and Penny Priddy. I am very excited to be involved, and hope to see you there! (hey, lunch is included and there are cool door prizes from many Main Street businesses, such as Two of Hearts Clothing.)

http://womenvoters.ca/personsday/

Just released! 2010 transportation plan

2009-10-14T12:08:00.000-07:00

Vanoc has just launched their website which lays out road closures, restrictions, that will let residents know how we will be affected by the 2010 games here in Vancouver. http://www.travelsmart2010.ca/residents.php

How will you be affected???

2009-09-22T21:42:00.000-07:00

You may have heard about the upcoming development called the "District" at Main and 7th. I just came from the sales centre where they had 2 display homes. They are beautifully finished with a choice of two colour schemes. Prices start at $223,900 and are expected to sell quickly.

They are not selling a single home until Saturday so, give us a call to get in priority!

Sandra

8 1/2 Restaurant (8th and Main)

2009-09-04T09:06:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone,

Just wanted to share my dining experience at 8 1/2 Restaurant and Lounge last week. It was their grand opening where free appetizers were served from 5-9PM and cheap drinks were flowing all the time.

I was most impressed with the staff and food. Featuring west coast favorites there are items on the menu that are unique to their own. The staff is friendly and service was great!

I must say this is a fantastic spot for a well priced dinner and cheap drinks. The atmosphere is relaxed, airy and always friendly. You won't be disappointed with your experience!

You can check out their website: http://www.eightandahalf.ca/

Cheers!

Jason

All day breakfast on Main Street

2009-08-27T11:27:00.000-07:00

I am a firm believer in all day breakfast. When my friend Kim and I meet for brunch, we really mean we want breakfast (meaning, after 11 am). So, I was very happy to discover Cafe Barney. A very nice change from the other place (that starts with a "D") ! I had an omelette, which came with toast and hash browns and Kim had eggs benny. The food was good, the service was friendly --- what more could I ask for?

mortgage info

2009-08-17T17:22:00.001-07:00

Check out this site for helpful mortgage information: http://www.averbachmortgages.com/

New (er) restaurant on Main

2009-08-17T16:33:00.000-07:00

I was out with clients at the new restaurant, Lattitude, on Main and 16th. Wow! Fabulous food! I had the lamb, and my clients had halibut and duck. The recommended wine was a perfect pairing as well. The decor was very modern, and even without a patio, the large open windows still gave you a feeling you were outside. A great addition to the growing number of top notch restaurants on Main Street. I will be back...

Main Street Block Party

2009-08-12T09:48:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

Just to give you a heads up there will be a block party on Main Street this Sunday August 16th from 12 Noon ~ 7PM.

It will be located near 11th & Main so come down and enjoy the party!

Have a great day!

Jason

Novo Furniture

2009-08-10T15:42:00.000-07:00

My new, custom made ottoman from Novo Furniture arrived on Friday. Finally, a place to rest my feet! David was very patient with me as I took 4 months to make a decision, but I am very pleased with it. And, you get a bottle of wine on delivery :) Check out his store at 3868 Main Street, or online at www.novofurniture.com

MLS listings with IPHONE!

2009-07-21T10:35:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

You can now check MLS listing right on your Iphone!! What's cool about this feature, your Iphone will use the Google map to know where you are and show you listings in your proximity!

Amazing! So for example if you're hanging out near Main Street and want to know which houses/condos are nearby for sale....voila use your Iphone to see what's for sale!

Directions how to use this feature:

(1) On your Iphone visit - www.livingmain.com/m
(2) That's it! Look for listings wherever you are on you Iphone!

Let me know if you have any questions about this feature or anything else about Real Estate in the Main Street area!

Cheers!

Jason

New Blog! www.LivingMain.com

2009-05-28T11:42:00.001-07:00

Hi guys,

Just a new blog for our website www.livingmain.com

We'll be updating our blog frequently with information/experiences/life on Main Street!

We'd like to hear from you as well......or if you have any questions let us know!