Posted by Frederick Trudeau on Wednesday, September 3rd, 2025 2:00pm.
Real estate meets community, culture, and change.
Walk down Commercial Drive on a Saturday, and you’ll see it—families scouting open houses, builders eyeing older homes, and downsizers sipping espresso while checking listings on their phones.
Yes, the market is shifting. Interest rates have nudged some buyers to the sidelines, but East Van’s energy hasn’t cooled. In fact, it's become more intentional.
Buyers today are sharper are looking for value, community, and long-term liveability.
Sellers need to tell a story, not just list a home. Heritage details? Garden oasis? Mortgage-helper suite? These aren’t features. They’re lifestyle anchors.
Sold in 9 days. The charm was intact (original hardwoods, arched doorways), but the updates were smart: heat pump, energy-efficient windows, legal suite. This home screamed “move-in ready, mortgage helper included.”
Lingering on the market for 42 days. Why? Layout felt disjointed and the outdoor space was underwhelming. In East Van, where land matters, the yard is the dealbreaker.
Not even listed yet and sold privately. More buyers are leaning on agent networks and exclusive previews to get ahead. Off-market is very much “on” in 2025.
Forget granite counters—buyers are hunting for:
Heat pumps and energy upgrades (hello, rebates!)
Garage conversions (home office, gym, guest suite)
Urban gardens (permaculture is in)
Sellers who invest in meaningful updates not just cosmetic flips are seeing real returns.
Sellers who invest in meaningful updates—not just cosmetic flips—are seeing real returns.
If you're sitting on a detached home or character duplex, you may be sitting on a goldmine. But the strategy matters. Fall is a sweet spot. Buyers return with purpose, inventory rises, but competition hasn’t peaked.
Consider:
Are you priced for the market, or your memories?
Does your listing make people feel something?
JJ Bean on Powell – Best place to overhear real estate gossip and chat with contractors
Il Mercato’s rooftop views – Hidden gem for sunset photos (and dreaming about your next home)
The Eastside Culture Crawl (coming soon) – Start planning your November weekends now!
Real estate isn’t just numbers, it’s life-changing moves. Whether you’re dreaming, downsizing, or deep in decision mode, we’re here for you.
Don’t wait until competition heats up. Call or text 778-877-8807 to start your home search today and make the most of the current market momentum.
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