Right Sizing Fall 2019

fall 2019

2 HOTSPOTS

HOW-TO:

IN CALIFORNIA AND MEXICO

CUSTOM-BUILT HOMES HOME SWAP BEFORE YOU HOME SHOP

B.C. harvest

towns

Spotlight on Predator Ridge l Chilliwack is Back l Why Locals Love Pemberton

NOW S EL L ING · 3 9 MAR INA S IDE S U IT E S · M OV E IN S P RIN G 20 2 0

U N C O M P RO M I S I N G O C E A N F RO N T L I V I N G

I N T H E H E A RT O F T H E FA I RW I N D S C O M M U N I T Y

PARKSVILLE

FAIRWINDS NANAIMO

VANCOUVER

VICTORIA

The Westerly is beautifully situated overlooking the Strait of Georgia, nestled within Vancouver Island’s natural landscape of forested hills and rocky terrain yet only 20 minutes north of Nanaimo and easily accessible from both Victoria and Vancouver. Designed and built to exacting standards, residences at the Westerly offer an active lifestyle just steps away from the water, marina and Fairwinds Landing, the community’s new oceanfront residential/retail/dining hub.

WESTERLY LIFESTYLE CENTRE · 3455 FAIRWINDS DRIVE, NANOOSE BAY, BC

INQUIRE · T 250.387.4162 TF 1.800.340.9539 FAIRWINDS.CA THE DEVELOPER RESERVES THE RIGHT IN ITS DISCRETION TO MAKE MODIFICATIONS AND CHANGES TO FLOOR PLANS, PROJECT DESIGNS, MATERIALS, SPECIFICATIONS AND DIMENSIONS TO MAINTAIN THE HIGH STANDARD OF THIS DEVELOPMENT. INFORMATION CONTAINED WITHIN IS PROPOSED ONLY AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTIFICATION. THIS IS NOT AN OFFERING FOR SALE AS ANY SUCH OFFERING CAN ONLY BE MADE BY WAY OF DISCLOSURE STATEMENT. E.&O.E.

Penticton BC | SkahaHills.com

Visiting here is breathtaking.

Owning here is life changing.

This rendering is for illustration only.

PHASE III THE VISTAS

FEATURING TERRACED RANCHERS – AN EXCITING NEW CONCEPT FOR TOWNHOME STYLE LIVING. DON’T MISS OUT ON THE OKANAGAN’S HOTTEST PROPERTY.

REGISTER AT SKAHAHILLS.COM

3 Winery & Restaurant

3 Beach Access

3 Pools | Sports Courts | Fitness Club

3 Extensive Trail Network

This rendering is for illustration only.

Skaha Hills Has It All And So Can You

3 Golf

3 Amazing Views

3 Energy Efficient Homes

D i s c o v e r y

D r e a m

H o m e s . c o m

D i s c o v e r t h e e n d l e s s p o s s i b i l i t i e s . . .

1.866.395.5647

1.877.823.5639

802.445.3007

Central/East

West Coast

North/East USA

CO SO MIN ON G

Aspen Grove is a state of the art, eco-concious development located in the quaint mountain town of

Rossland, British Columbia

Two and three bedroom condos available High energy efficienc y and net-zero ready World- class sk iing and bik ing on your doorstep Designed for the ac tive Kootenay lifestyle

2812 Cedar Crescent PO Box 761 Rossland BC

www.aspengrove.ca

info@aspengrove.ca 778 517 0935

WHAT’S INSIDE Fall 2019

Up Front

Departments

8

24 Home Exchange: Not so far away from home

Publisher’s Letter

12 Dispatches

27 Business: Franchises

16 The Building Lots: Where to buy now

31 Investing: Investment property

21 Join the Club: Wine club perks

56 International: Sun-destination property 62 Real estate: Chilliwack is booming 66 Hidden Jewel: Pemberton

Features 34 Function Over Formula: Custom home builders think outside the box 38 Harvest Towns: Get a taste of B.C.’s growing communities 58 Rural Roots: Predator Ridge is at the top of its game

6

Right Sizing

Fall 2019

Vineyard overlooking Okanagan Lake, Kelowna. Photo by Stan Jones

Fall 2019

Right Sizing

7

T

he fall is one of my favourite times of year to travel around B.C. In addition to getting away from the Lower Mainland’s rain, I’m learning about innovative new developments in various regions—and sampling fresh harvest markets, cool restaurants, world-class wineries and beautiful orchards, all local “secrets” in the many pockets of this diverse province.

When meeting friendly locals, it’s obvious that they, too, enjoy the fruits of whatever a nearby patch of land produces. Wouldn’t it be nice to walk down your street and buy some fresh-farmed eggs, pick ripened fruit right off the trees or select home-grown vegetables in local markets? Wouldn’t we all love to belong to a nearby wine club where we could book private tastings and sip some of the best New World wines—all while making new acquaintances? If that tweaks your interest, I think you’ll be very intrigued with our feature on B.C. harvest towns on page 38 and our round-up of wine club perks on page 21.

If you’re still not convinced about your own big move to a smaller community, perhaps try a home exchange (swap your house for a small-town abode for a month) to try out a town for size—and taste—this autumn? See page 24 for our how-to guide.

If you’re struggling to find and select the perfect neighbourhood or house, we have a great story on lots for building, on page 16, and another piece on building your dream home, on page 34, covering everything from preferred local builders to customizing prefab homes.

Whether you’re looking to semi-retire at a lively resort-style community, start a new business (perhaps a franchise is in the cards? see page 27), or buy some investment property, communities from Chilliwack to Pemberton across B.C. and places as far-flung as Mexico and California are all still great places to invest. As we try to do every issue, we illustrate the amenities, the homes, the communities and help you “do the math” on changing your residence and lifestyle to something right sized.

In this issue, I also want to give a plug to the amazing creative team we’re so fortunate to have! Our editor, Charlene Rooke, is a previous editor of Avenue Calgary, Western Living and Air Canada’s enRoute inflight magazine, as well as at The Globe and Mail. Most recently, she was the publisher of BCBusiness, and we are so pleased to have her insights on Right Sizing.

Publisher, Founder

Steve Dietrich

Editor

Charlene Rooke

Designer

Amélie Légaré

Online Design

John Magill

Proofreader

Lisa Manfield

Digital Media Manager

Charity Robertson

Writers Nikki Bayley, Michelle Hopkins, Gail Johnson, Lisa Manfield, Matt O’Grady, Claire Piech, Kate Robertson, Steve Threndyle Advertising Sales 604-787-4603 info@rightsizingmedia.com Head Office

187 Rondoval Crescent, North Vancouver,

BC, V7N 2W6. 604-787-4603 Accounting Inquiries

Iva Dietrich, iva@rightsizingmedia.com

Letters to the editor

info@rightsizingmedia.com

Letters may be edited for length and clarity.

Subscriptions rightsizingmedia.com/magazine/subscribe Distribution To The Globe and Mail subscribers within Vancouver, the Lower Mainland, Victoria, Kelowna and Calgary, Air Canada Lounges, select realtor and brokerage offices, select newsstands and events.

To distribute Right Sizing magazine in larger quantities within your location please call 604-787-4603.

Printer tc – Transcontinental, Canada.

Right Sizing magazine, established 2018. The magazine will be published four times per year by Publimedia Communications Inc., established 1996. All rights reserved. The opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher, or the staff. All editorial is deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. The publisher is not responsible for any liability associated with any editorial or products and services of-

Our designer, Amélie Légaré, has been the creative genius behind the look of Mountain Life magazine for the past 12 years (along with numerous real-estate publications for Maggi Thornhill in Whistler) and Flavours magazine. And like so many others (who are able to work remotely), Amelie has just right-sized her own life, as she moves from Whistler to Pemberton, to design and build her dream home, from scratch!

If you’re looking for further information on down-sizing, up-sizing, better value on real estate or so many other topics I’ve mentioned here, please check out our resources at rightsizingmedia.com. And stay tuned for upcoming issues, in which we’ll meet some of B.C.’s most inspirational developers, and the B.C. mayors who are really making a difference in their communities.

Steve Dietrich Publisher 8

Right Sizing

fered by any advertiser. Editorial submissions will be considered, please send them to the publisher. Copyright© 2019 Publimedia Communications Inc. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. The publisher and printer will not be responsible for any typographical errors, mistakes, misprints, spot colouring or any misinformation provided by advertisers.

Website

www.RightSizingMedia.com

Cover Image Summerhill Pyramid Winery, Kelowna. Photo Michael Wheatley

PRINTED IN CANADA Fall 2019

Only 19 Luxury Hillside Lakeview Homes Remain The is Cottagesrom f exempt ation c BC’s Va Tax Home

Act now for best selection on remaining homes The word is out that The Cottages on Osoyoos Lake is the best year-round new home community in the Okanagan Valley.

The Cottages includes a community centre with a gym, two pools and hot tubs as well as our private sandy beach and boat slips, there’s something for everyone. With over 220 homes sold, the remaining opportunities won’t last long.

With eight different home plans to choose from ranging in size from our modest 1,300 sf meadow homes to the exclusive 3,000 sf Meritage plan, there really is the perfect home for you.

We have several unique homes under construction and all homes can be customized to suite your needs. Please contact our sales team at 1.855.742.5555 or visit our website for a full tour.

Don’t miss this final opportunity to own a piece of paradise on Osoyoos Lake!

Visit our Display Homes » 2450 Radio Tower Road, Oliver, BC See website for open hours.

1.855.742.5555 osoyooscottages.com

NEW CUSTOM-BUILT HOMES ON A GOLF COURSE BASED ON THE DESIGN BELOW: $629,000

250 368 8818

kootenayhomes.com

Rossland is a special community, protected by being just off the beaten path. It has all of this: World-class skiing World-class golf

Word-class mountain biking Trophy fly fishing

And: great value in real estate

C21 MELANNIE VOCKEROTH REALTOR® Melannie.Vockeroth@century21.ca Call 250 368 7681

CONSIDER RIGHT SIZING TO ROSSLAND, BC EXPERIENCE HERE...

OCEANFRONT LIVING THAT CHANGES EVERYTHING

Join the 200+ homeowners at Vivo Resorts, Puerto Escondido, Mexico and live a healthier, happier and more connected lifestyle.

DESIGN YOUR LIFESTYLE VIVORESORTS.COM/RIGHTSIZE | 1.844.777.8486

OUR

CONTRIBUTORS lisa manfield

Michelle Hopkins Michelle Hopkins is a freelance writer for publications including BCBusiness, Women in Business, Business Traveler, Vancouver Living and OnTrak. Her favourite small-town B.C. spot is Gibsons Landing. “This picturesque community has it all, like charming shops, great restaurants and stunning oceanfront vistas,” she says.

Steven Threndyle has written about everything from powder-skiing in Revelstoke to alpine hiking in Whistler and mountain biking in Squamish. He’s a regular contributor to Coast Mountain Culture and Ski Canada. His personal motto is, “Never waste a sunny day,” and Silver Star Mountain Resort and Tofino are his two favourite places in the province.

matt o’grady

steven threndyle

Lisa Manfield is a writer, editor and writing instructor. She was the founding editor of BCLiving and currently writes for Real Weddings, Boulevard, Bijou and Enterprise magazines. While she loves living in Coquitlam, she dreams of someday migrating to Penticton.

Matt O’Grady has held senior regional and national media positions, including as former editor-in-chief of BCBusiness, which he led to several National Magazine Awards and a Jack Webster Award. O’Grady says, “My favourite small B.C. town is Powell River... a pretty coastal community with affordable real estate.”

Gail Johnson is a print, digital and broadcast journalist who writes regularly for the Georgia Straight and The Globe and Mail, among other publications, and has a regular food spot on CBC Radio in Vancouver. Her favourite B.C. town is Tofino, which she visits “every winter with my family to surf and eat.”

gail johnson claire piech

Kate Robertson

Claire Piech is a writer and editor whose byline has appeared in more than 900 magazine and newspaper articles, including in Pique Newsmagazine, Mountain Life Magazine and the Vancouver Sun. She has also led public relations for the Whistler Writers Festival since 2012.

Outside her current home of Pemberton, her favourite small B.C. community is Nelson.

Kate Robertson is a journalist who contributes to many media outlets, like Canadian Traveller, Inspired and Family Fun Canada. She’s happy to call British Columbia’s beautiful Kootenays region home, and when she’s not writing, she likes to hang out in her favourite B.C. mountain town, Nelson, “where the cool vibes and endless selection of restaurants, coffee shops and micro-breweries never gets old.”

Fall 2019

Right Sizing

11

Dispatches

By Right Sizing Staff

Rendering courtesy of Keefer Ecological Holdings

>>

Elevator Envy

The interior of B.C. has long been a hotbed for off-the-grid and greener living, and today’s developers are leading the way in green building there. Keefer Ecological Holdings (run by environmental consultant Mike Keefer) is behind Aspen Grove, a cluster of low-rise, highly energy-efficient and responsibly developed residential buildings envisioned for Rossland’s Pinewood area. Vidorra Developments is building Oso, billed as Golden’s most energy-efficient development, with around 50 apartments that promise a high-quality building envelope with lower heating costs, among other sustainable features. aspengrove.ca vidorralife.com

A private elevator, formerly a niche perk for big-city penthouse dwellers, is now within reach. For those with multi-generational families, mobility needs or a desire to age in place, an elevator is a smart investment. Gyro Beach Townhomes in Kelowna incorporates Hybrid Elevators (eco-friendly aluminum, and equipped to work even in a power outage), from the garage right up to the rooftop deck—an asset for lifting everything from laundry and groceries to holiday luggage. Similarly, Shoreline on Beach in Peachland offers an elevator option in its town homes (twostorey living stacked on top a garage): build one in right now, or have the shaft roughed in for completion later. gyrobeach.ca, newtownservices.net/project/shoreline-on-beach/

Buy here

Average assessed value of a single-family home in Rossland was $338,000 in 2018 (up 18%)

>>

Building Green in the Interior

Buy one

Cost of a residential elevator, $40,000-$100,000.

Marathon Search When you’re looking for a new home, the search process can seem daunting. But avid runners can use their hobby as a both a fitness opportunity and a chance to check out a different community. For instance, the race proudly billed as Canada’s Hardest 10k is run every November at Bear Mountain Resort in Victoria (which even offers runners discounted rooms at the Westin Resort Hotel), with more than 1,000 feet of elevation change.

Kelowna’s Wilden community hosts an annual Wild One Trail Run each October through the rugged backcountry terrain of the development; last year it raised $8,000 for youth mental health initiatives.

And Predator Ridge in Vernon hosts a Dirty Feet Snowshoe Race each January and a Dirty Feet Trail Run in April. wildonerun.ca, bearmountain10k.com, dirtyfeet.ca

Buy here

Average assessed value of single-family homes in Vernon and Victoria increased by 8% in 2018

Get your feet dirty at a Predator Ridge race. Photo courtesy of Kodiak BC

12

Right Sizing

Fall 2019

Elevate your lifestyle at Gyro Beach. Photo courtesy of Gyro Beach Townhomes

>>

Full-time Resort Living Resort-town living, with the lake, mountains or ocean at your back door, is the dream of many retirees and downsizers—and now millennials, too. The RE/MAX 2019 Recreational Property Trends survey showed that a stunning 56 per cent of millennials are looking in the recreational property market (up 14 per cent from last year). While some of them are looking for investment properties, others—driven out of cities by high-priced real estate—are looking to so-called recreational properties as primary homes. Re/MAX regional executive vice-president Western Canada Elton Ash is not surprised to see millennials pushing into the market: “Recreational living is very much aligned with this generation’s quest for work-life balance.”

Tourism Whistler / Justa Jeskova

28% of Western Canadians look for seclusion in a recreational property

Buy near town

Get Schooled: Colwood The fast-growing community of Colwood got it right with Royal Bay Secondary School, which has quickly become a high-tech community and cultural hub since opening in 2015. With 800 students and the potential to grow to 1,200, it has a 350-seat theatre, a roof deck and a massive wall mural by artists Michael Rozen and Scott Sueme. Best of all, the school has views across the Salish Sea toward Victoria and the Juan de Fuca Strait from its many massive windows—a welcome change from dark, cramped classrooms and old-fashioned institutional architecture.

New-school

imaginekootenay.com

>>

3 new-build B.C. schools have been announced in 2019

Instant Office: Kootenays When a home office, with all its potential distractions, isn’t the solution for your remote-work needs, co-work spaces are now available in nearly every corner of B.C. Even workers who choose to operate outside a traditional big-city office setting appreciate some of the office perks: social connections, colleagues and conveniences like shared printers, or even a yoga studio at the Jam Factory in Nelson and a recording booth (podcasts!) at Ground Floor in Cranbrook. Mountain CoLab in Revelstoke and the Mountain Hub in Invermere will soon be joined by LIFT in Silverton on Slocan Lake—one of the spots that expects to have access to fast new broadband internet in the Kootenay region.

Photo courtesy HCMA

Co-work cost

from $15/day to $65–$275/month

Still a Seller’s Market: Vancouver This past summer was a bright spot for sellers, according to the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver (REBGV): in July—traditionally a quieter month for sales in the annual real estate cycle—it reported 2019 growth of 23.5 per cent in home sales over 2018, and a 23.1 per cent increase over home sales in the previous month, June 2019. “Those looking to buy today continue to benefit from low interest rates, increased selection, and reduced prices compared to the heated market a few years ago,” says Ashley Smith, REBGV president—which is good news for owners thinking of selling and right sizing. rebgv.org

48 days

Average time a listed Vancouver home spends on the market

Fall 2019

Right Sizing

13

Having it All: Vancouver Island Vancouver Island is, of course, known for its oceanfront living, but savvy islanders know that a lake lifestyle is also possible. Here are just a few of the island’s local lakefronts to explore as you consider relocating to nearby island communities.

horne lake sproat lake brannen lake

long lake lake cowichan

•

Langford Lake: with a trail network, boat launch and boardwalk.

•

Shawnigan Lake: beaches and day-use picnic areas, great trout fishing.

•

Lake Cowichan: sandy beaches at Gordon Bay Provincial Park, hiking and fishing.

•

Brannen Lake: a swimming float, boat launch and picnic areas.

•

Long Lake: a no-powerboats rule makes this a quiet sunning, swimming and rowing lake.

•

Sproat Lake: windsurfing takes flight here, with Provincial Park trails to prehistoric rock carvings.

•

Horne Lake: a boat ramp and canoe/kayak rentals, and cave tours at Horn Lake Caves Provincial Park.

shawnigan Lake

Lakeside homes can command 2.5 times the selling price of Lake effect: non-waterfront.

Langford Lake

Shoring Up: Shuswap With 1,100 kilometres of shoreline, the four arms of the Shuswap Lake district tie together a network of towns, each with its own charms.

Ranging in size from a few hundred residents (Swansea Point) to towns of about 1,300 (Sorrento, Blind Bay) or 3,200 residents (Sicamous) to the small city of Salmon Arm (almost 18,000 residents in the area), these communities not only have an idyllic lake lifestyle in summer but five championship golf courses, winter recreation and vibrant cultural life: visit shuswapculture.ca for upcoming events and happenings.

Salmon Arm.

Buy here

Average assessed value of a single-family home in Sicamous is $293,800 (up 17%)

FIND ALL COPIES ONLINE

delivering a new build

Revitalization

From prefabricated and modular to tiny homes

is underway in 18 communities

Building and

living green

Ski Town Living

10

Best Purpose-built Communities for Semi-retirement

Real estate:

21

know the rules

The new commute

Cool b.c. communities

$300,000

The price of a view

What $800k buys you?

Own, rent, invest: which strategy is best?

Float-home living COOL EATERIES

Downsize, Upsize, Rightsize.

Is minimalism the key to happiness?

l

Small town, fast friends

l

12

10 towns under

Ride on

How cycling is eclipsing golf as the new community sport

Developments and communities to love

waterfront

Island life Trading in the city for a Gulf Island lifestyle

Investment options

Last impression The rewards of Port Renfrew

What $700K buys

The Rules of Foreign Ownership l Tech Centres and Co-Working Spaces l Last Impression: Kitimat

Fall 2019

53

B.C.’s best

$500K

Build a custom dream home

7

Great sports cities

must-see condo and town home projects

10 towns under $200k

Right Sizing

Where the jobs are in B.C.

towns under

Rightsizingmedia.com 14

Summer 2019

spring 2019

september/october 2018

july/august 2018

May /June 2018

november/december 2018

+ Property Search tool

Own a private island

l

E-bike power

l

What $600k buys

l

Social Network

year-round resort living l relocate a business

l

Speculation tax

l

living on a ranch

YOUR LOCAL SOUTH OKANAGAN & KOOTENAYS REAL ESTATE EXPERTS WITH OFFICES IN OSOYOOS AND GREENWOOD

Osoyoos: 8317A Main St. Ph: 250.495.2100

Greenwood: 101 Government Ave. S. Ph: 250.445.9994

lifeinchilliwack.com businessinchilliwack.com

FINE VACATION RENTALS WHISTLER WIDE Over 90 Professionally Managed Properties Across Whistler SAVE 10% ON YOUR NEXT STAY! USE PROMO CODE ‘RIGHT SIZE’ AT CHECKOUT

BLACKCOMBPEAKS.COM Consumer Protection BC License #31067

Ranging from 1-4 Bedrooms Secluded or Slopeside

866.590.1613 info@blackcombpeaks.com

Blind Bay

Kamloops Kamloops is situated in the heart of B.C.’s interior and has a population of 90,000. Kamloops is known as the Tournament Capital of Canada and will host close to 100 sports events this year. Recent listing: Enjoy one of 58 executive lots in the newest development in Juniper. The Trail Side neighbourhood is surrounded by beautiful scenery, spectacular views of the city and is close to dog parks, a general store and a bike ranch. $220,000.

On the southern shore of Shuswap Lake (29 kilometres from Salmon Arm and 6 kilometres east of Sorrento), this community emblematizes the Shuswap lifestyle.

It’s all about water recreation, golf and sunshine. Recent listing: The Highlands in Shuswap Lake Estates offers luxury building lots with lakeview living. Create the home of your dreams and enjoy amenities including an 18-hole championship golf course, community centre, marina and sandy beaches. $119,000–$190,000.

Sicamous Located at the northern end of the Okanagan Valley, Sicamous offers access to calm freshwater lakes in the summer along with numerous snow sports in the winter. Sicamous is situated between Vancouver and Calgary (with only a 4.5-hour drive each way). Recent listing: Building lots in this community vary from bareland strata with close proximity to the beach and amenities to hillside-view lots. $100,000–$267,000.

Vernon Predator Ridge is a vibrant community located on the southern edge of Vernon, the largest city in B.C.’s North Okanagan Regional District. People of all ages enjoy Vernon’s golf courses, hiking and biking trails, water sports, agritourism and many other outdoor adventures. Recent listing: Imagine building your dream home on this premium estate lot in The Commonage, Predator Ridge’s fastest-selling neighbourhood. This year-round community has panoramic views of the lake, valley and golf course.

Starting at $275,000.

Naramata Naramata is situated in the Okanagan Valley, just north of Penticton; its rich orchard and vineyard land sits mainly in an area referred to as the Naramata Bench. Recent listing: Here’s the perfect opportunity to build your dream home in the brand new development of Kettle Ridge. This building lot offers stunning 180-degree views of the lake, direct access to the Kettle Valley Rail Trail for hiking and biking and some lots can even accommodate pools. $305,000.

Map courtesy of Google Maps

16

Right Sizing

Fall 2019

Osoyoos Osoyoos has a population of just 5,085, yet is one of B.C.’s fastest-growing communities. Home to one of Canada’s warmest lakes and its only semi-arid desert region, it’s attracting younger families seeking the Okanagan lifestyle at an affordable price. Recent listing: Build the perfect home in the premiere gated community of Sonora Ridge. This building lot is situated on the east bench, within walking distance to downtown and has mountain and lake views. $269,900.

Fort St. John With one of the fastest-growing populations and real estate markets in B.C., thanks to its growing economy, Fort St. John is expected to triple by 2046, according to recent forecasts. Recent listing: Build a beautiful home in well-planned Garrison Landing, an attractively designed family-friendly neighbourhood that comes with snow removal and parking for large vehicles and is close to popular walking trails and the community forest. $139,900.

THE

BUILDING LOTS

Right Sizing combed the province for the pick of this fall’s crop of building lots—including many under the $300,000 mark. Here’s where to consider situating your dream home.

By Right Sizing Staff For direct links to all listings go to rightsizingmedia.com/buildinglots

Rossland Rossland is situated in the Kootenay Rockies region of B.C. and is the ideal spot for summer and winter recreation: it’s home to Red Mountain Resort, one of the largest ski resorts in western Canada. Recent listing: This building lot is located above the first Fairway at Redstone Golf Course, close to hiking and biking trails, and only a 20-minute walk to downtown Rossland. The builder has site-specific plans to help you create your dream home. $139,000.

Cranbrook Cranbrook is an affordable, growing city situated in the southeast corner of B.C. According to Environment Canada, it has the most sunshine hours of any city in the province (2,190.5 hours annually). Recent listing: The Wildstone golf community enjoys great golf and amazing mountain views, only minutes to downtown Cranbrook and 30 kilometres to Kimberley Ski Resort. $94,900

Fall 2019

Right Sizing

17

Courtenay The city of Courtenay is located on the east coast of Central Vancouver Island and is considered the urban and cultural hub of the Comox Valley. Recent listing: Crown Isle’s exclusive Hampton Gate subdivision has the perfect lot to build your dream home. This level lot is located within minutes to amenities, at the end of a quiet gated community; it comes with views of Crown Isle’s Championship Golf Course. $299,900.

Port Alberni Port Alberni is centrally located on the west side of Vancouver Island and known for its forestry, fishing and marine industries. It has also been designated the Salmon Capital of the World.

Recent listing: Build your dream home on this 10,871-square-foot lot in the exclusive subdivision of Parkview Crescent, presented by Anderson Hill.

This ideal corner lot is situated close to amenities, with a neighbour on one side only and underground services to the lot line. $139,900.

Map courtesy of Google Maps

18

Right Sizing

Fall 2019

Chilliwack Chilliwack is located 100 kilometres east of Vancouver, with a population of approximately 91,000–and steadily growing. Residents enjoy low tax rates, affordable housing and excellent quality of life. Recent listing: Building lots in a brand new community have easy freeway access, are close to parks and within walking distance to an elementary school, with plenty of street parking. Some of them even back onto a park! $309,900.

Victoria Victoria’s Bear Mountain is one of the larger resort community developments on the Island, with two 18-hole golf courses, plus world-class recreational opportunities and a year-round moderate climate. Recent Listings: Pinehurst, a gated 39-lot development, has stunning views of the Olympic Mountains, Pacific Ocean, Langford Lake and Goldstream Park.

Riviera is connected to parkland, and in walking distance to Bear Mountain village. Starting at $439,000

Contemporary and Classically Inspired Live/Work Property

$2,850,000

455GorgeRoad.com

Modern and Cozy Highlands Estates Acreage

D

L SO

$2,280,000

1785YorkRidgePlace.com

Custom Dream Home on Triangle Mountain

$1,278,000

687LeeviewLane.com

Call or text The Neal Estate Team at 250.386.8181 for FREE consultation when Buying or Selling Real Estate in Victoria and on Vancouver Island.

RonNeal.com

HomesonVancouverIsland.ca

JOIN THE

CLUB

Drink in the Okanagan at Road 13 Vineyards. Photo courtesy of Road 13

With B.C.’s wine industry booming, more wineries are offering clubs with member perks, ranging from discounts and special bottles to home delivery.

Some are upping the ante with benefits that particularly suit seasonal or yearround wine country residents: drink in these options.

By Gail Johnson

Elephant Island Winery, Naramata The way Elephant Island founders Del and Miranda Halladay see things, life’s a circus—and their wine club is themed accordingly.

Strongman members and their guests get exclusive, personalized tours of the farm’s crabapple and apricot orchards and viognier and cabernet franc vineyards with a winery principal (or “ringmaster”)—complete with rubber boots and spectacular views. A guided tasting in a special outdoor area or (at Mother Nature’s discretion) in the cellar follows, for an intimate taste of fruit wines from one of the five original wineries of the Naramata Bench. COOL PERK: Club members get two tickets to the winery’s popular summer party.

Road 13 Vineyards, Oliver The origins of this Golden Mile Bench winery go back to the early 1920s, when then-B.C. premier Honest John Oliver stimulated farming in the area by building an irrigation canal.

True to that agricultural history, the motto of owners Mick and Pam Luckhurst is “it’s all about the dirt.” Club members can get the dirt on the latest releases with complementary tastings for four in the Castle Tasting Room. The ivy-co vered castle is a holdover from the winery’s original owners, Peter and Helga Serwo, who built the structure, complete with a drawbridge and carved wooden entry, in honour of their Bavarian roots. COOL PERK: Members have an in on popular offerings like sparkling chenin blanc and the holiday Wine Advent Calendar.

Fall 2019

Right Sizing

21

CedarCreek Estate Winery, Kelowna

Fitzpatrick Family Vineyards, Peachland

A B.C. industry leader, CedarCreek has more than three decades of winemaking experience in residence at its 50-acre property overlooking Okanagan Lake. Now in the final phase of its transition to organic farming, the winery has also opened Home Block, a new year-round restaurant. Three times a year, club members are invited to a tutored, seated tasting event with winemaker Taylor Whelan, giving them the chance to hear first-hand accounts about the making of each vintage. Chef Neil Taylor creates food pairings for each wine to showcase the associations between his seasonal menus and Taylor’s expressive wines. For non-Okanagan residents, CedarCreek holds similar wine-club member tasting events annually with partner restaurants in Vancouver, Victoria, Calgary and Edmonton. COOL PERK: CedarCreek’s club-member bottle offerings are fully customizable—a relative rarity.

In 1994, Ross Fitzpatrick, former owner of CedarCreek Estate Winery, bought Greata Ranch, a heritage property dating back to 1895. Today, Fitzpatrick Family Vineyards specializes in traditional method sparkling wine—and at making wine-club members feel like part of the family.

Members can actually take part in the winemaking process itself at the annual disgorgement party, and get exclusive access to the vineyard’s own on-site Bunk House accommodations. COOL PERK: Members get first crack at in-demand concert tickets, like this past summer’s performance by Jim Cuddy (of Blue Rodeo fame).

Blue Grouse Estate Winery, Duncan Situated in the Cowichan Valley, Blue Grouse is one of the oldest estate vineyards on Vancouver Island. Its cool climate is ideal for grape varietals like bacchus, ortega and siegerrebe. For its wine club members, cheekily named “pickup parties” are highlights. Held three times a year, they provide opportunities for members and their guests to savour meeting and learning about the artisans behind local products. Past parties have featured an ice-cream maker and a chocolatier who crafted treats using some of the family-run estate’s vintages.

COOL PERK: This past summer, members attended a garden party at Grouse House (the winery’s converted original tasting room), with lunch, wine and live music.

22

Right Sizing

Fall 2019

kitimat – canada’s next best investment play Home to the largest private sector investment in Canadian history with $40 billion LNG Project creating over 6,000 jobs!

Riverbrook Estates is the largest new residential development in Kitimat. While up to 300 homes are planned, the first phase of 47 townhomes breaks ground in May/June 2019 and completion starting in Q1 2020, this will coincide with the arrival of the first wave of 1,100 construction workers due in Kitimat by the end of 2019 and into Q1 2020.

The first phase of townhomes is now available for presale.

Guaranteed rental income, starting at $3,000 per month.

To register or for more information about this exciting opportunity, go to riverbrookestatesliving.ca, email info@riverbrookestatesliving.ca or contact Jason Pender at jason.pender@shaw.ca

HOME EXCHANGE : NOT SO FAR AWAY FROM HOME

House swapping has been around since at least the early 1950s, when David Ostroff, a New York City teacher, is credited with opening his home to colleagues and relatives during holidays.

The first Canadian home exchange service, now called Home Link Canada, has been operating since 1986, says its current director, Jack Graber. Today, the largest user demographic is retirees, many of them former professionals—and avid repeat users of home-exchange services.

Home exchange platforms are typically used by people on vacation—but they’re also the ideal way for prospective home buyers to check out a new community. If you’ve been contemplating a move to Vancouver Island, the Sunshine Coast, or an interior enclave like Nelson or Rossland, through a home exchange you can potentially explore what it’s like to live somewhere—in a low-risk, longer-term way—before you commit to the investment.

MEMBERSHIP WITH BENEFITS You could do your community research by staying at a vacation rental or a hotel, but home exchange has unique benefits. First: affordability. You’ll likely only pay a membership fee (around $150 to $300 per year) to a chosen service. Otherwise, no money is exchanged between home-swapping partners, which provides an inexpensive long-stay option, and the security of having your primary residence maintained and occupied while you’re away.

24

Right Sizing

Fall 2019

More importantly, with a home exchange, you get to really immerse yourself in a community or neighbourhood. “You get a good feel for what it’s like to live there,” says Graber. “You shop at the local grocery stores, see the local amenities and attend local events. Often the exchange partner will leave insider info about the area and ask neighbours and friends to drop in to say hello.”

For frequent home-swapper Sarah Bancroft and her Vancouverbased family, the perks went even beyond that when they booked a home exchange in Whistler through BeHomm, a service that focuses on architectural and design-savvy properties. “It was a beautiful house and we got a few good design ideas from staying there,” says Bancroft. “Because a home exchange is more personal than a rental, and the people you are exchanging with are more likely to be similar to your family in terms of ages, kids, lifestyle and values, there were a lot of special touches. The family left things like locally made chocolates, good coffee… and directions for hiking trails that only locals knew about.”

Home exchange services also generally have excellent safety records, thanks to procedures like ID verification and records and reviews of previous home swaps for repeat clients. They’re even more secure than rental services, Home Link Canada’s Graber believes: “With vacation rental services, renters can feel entitled to treat property in any way they want. This never happens in home exchanges—I mean never. As one of my clients said, you’re really holding each other hostage: you treat their home as you would want them to treat yours.”

Try a local home exchange as a low-risk way to test the waters, before moving to a new city or town.

By Kate Robertson

FINDING YOUR NEW HOMETOWN Wondering how to take the first steps toward a home exchange? First, explore some of the platforms (such as Love Home Swap, Home Link Canada or Home Exchange): usually, you can search databases or view sample listings before joining. Once you’ve found a service with the types of locations and homes that suit you, consider the two kinds of exchanges that are possible. A direct exchange happens when you stay in another member’s home while they stay in yours; a non-simultaneous exchange, generally offered by people who have second homes, offers agreed-upon dates for each party to stay at a different property.

You’ll need to create a profile with a description of your home, including photos that showcase its features and reflect its current condition. “It’s best to be very transparent about your own home,” Graber advises. “Post lots of pictures of the interior and exterior and give a detailed description of your city and neighbourhood.”

When constructing your own listing and negotiating exchanges, be very precise about needs and offerings. Does the exchange include a car? (According to Graber, 75 per cent do.) Are pets okay? Is it child-friendly, with access and recommendations to babysitters?

Will plants or gardens need to be tended? Can you use the home’s computers? Be prepared to ask and answer a lot of questions before settling on the terms of an exchange.

As the date for your home swap comes closer, ensure your home is clean, tidy and stocked with basics. Ensure adequate coverage for your home and your car. Lock up any valuables or personal possessions that you don’t want shared. “Getting your home ready for a swap is a big endeavour,” says Bancroft. “But de-cluttering and cleaning out your kitchen cupboards and bedroom closets can be very liberating!” It’s just one more benefit to exploring a new location through the familiar surroundings of an established home.

HOMETOWN ADVANTAGE Home-swapping tips from Jack Graber of Home Link Canada.

•

Start planning well in advance.

•

Be flexible with your dates and location, expanding your search to suburbs or areas just outside of the town or city of your choice.

•

Communicating openly and transparently with prospective exchangers yields the best results.

•

You’re not just home swapping, you’re people-swapping, by inviting someone into your home.

If possible, try to overlap at one destination to meet each other.

Fall 2019

Right Sizing

25

Cobs Bread is just one of today’s hot franchise options. Photo courtesy of Cobs

A HOT FRANCHISE Opening a small-town business puts you at the heart of a new community, and investing in a franchise business might be the perfect turnkey solution.

Here’s what’s hot in the B.C. market now.

By Matt O’Grady

When we hear the word franchises, most of us think of fast-food chains, like McDonald’s or Tim Hortons. But according to lawyer Peter Snell, fast food represents fewer than half of the franchises being opened in Canada today. A partner with Gowling WLG with more than 20 years of franchise law experience, Snell says maid and cleaning services, fitness and wellness concepts and seniors- and healthcare-related businesses are popular now. “Any business you can successfully replicate can be franchised,” he notes.

In Good Company

When you open an independent restaurant serving food just like you mom made, for instance, you take huge risks on the concept and its reception. By contrast, opening a Panago PIzza comes with a well-established brand, and the franchisor’s proven systems and expertise—everything from standard procedures and operating manuals to inventory-control systems.

Buying a franchise, says Snell, is ideal for those who want to be “in business for themselves, but not by themselves.”

You also get assistance with the kinds of logistics that solo entrepreneurs can struggle with: concerns like location selection, lease

The impact on our economy is profound: according to the Canadian Franchise Association, 11 per cent of jobs in British Columbia are, either directly or indirectly, created through franchising. In 2018 alone, 520 new franchises and more than 75,000 franchise units were opened across Canada.

Fall 2019

Right Sizing

27

negotiation and site development; hiring designers, builders and shop fitters; equipment purchasing; training and management assistance; and advertising and merchandising support.

Setting Up Shop While a franchisor can often provide market research on locations, Snell recommends that prospective franchisees do some homework, using tools like Statistics Canada online demographic data. “Is [a community] growing, is it shrinking? Is it an older, aging town or is it a young, vibrant up-and-coming one?”—important factors in selecting a business location.

He uses the Cobs Bread model (“a great system”) as an example of a franchise network that’s quickly reaching its stride, with more than 100 Canadian locations and a goal of reaching 300 in the next five years. “They’re in rapid expansion growth at the moment, and finding that some of their best opportunities are in smaller markets.” While Snell says that every size of market can have its own advantages, he says you must have a clear understanding of whether your chosen community can support another Pilates studio or poké restaurant before you invest.

Your franchise concept should be not only

28

Right Sizing

Fall 2019

viable, but aligned with your goals and interests. For those close to retirement age, a franchise like Expedia CruiseShipCenters can be an entry point into a global industry and a new lifestyle. “You can get involved with setting up an Expedia location and indulge your passion for travel as well as your desire to still have a business,” Snell says.

Staying in Your Lane With all of franchising’s advantages, there are some drawbacks. There are regimented systems, and you’ll need to follow them.

Snell, who was a special advisor to the provincial government when B.C.’s most recent franchise legislation was introduced, mentions limits on the territory in which you can operate or promote your business, restrictions on when and how you can exit the business and the ongoing fees that need to be paid to a franchisor as only a few considerations to be weighed against the conveniences of a turnkey business concept.

Most importantly, make sure you understand all aspects of the franchise model, and what it will require from you. “It’s not a passive investment. You need to make it clear what your expectations are going into it and what the franchisor’s expectations are—because you don’t want to be in for a rude shock.”

CHAIN OF COMMAND: FRANCHISE FACTS. Talk to a lawyer: As of February 2017, B.C. introduced specific legislation dealing with franchise law—so you’ll need a lawyer who’s familiar with the current rules of franchise disclosures.

Do your research: The Canadian Franchise Association’s website (cfa.ca) and the International Franchise Association’s website (franchise.org) have lots of information for those interested in pursuing a franchise concept.

Other resources: Community Futures, with 34 offices throughout rural B.C., offers help like support services, business planning advice, loans and self-employment assistance. Local business and economic development groups, like Imagine Kootenay, are places to seek advice, community and even listings of local businesses for sale.

moveuphere.ca

Fort St. John (Move up! you’ll love living here)

OPPORTUNITY

Low tax rates for business and attractive economic incentives for development mean Fort St. John is ‘Open for Business.’

#1

304

Highest household income in BC, and fifth in Canada

Sunny days per year (same as Kelowna)

31.4

$367,000

Median age

Average price of a single-family home in 2018

(11 years younger than BC’s median age)

Our natural resource industries create 2.27 million Canadian jobs.

Real people. Real jobs. Real life.

Hey Canada!

If you are in favour of a strong economy, jobs, and clean energy – SPEAK UP!

fortstjohn.ca We have 200 years of natural resource experience.

Opponents to industry are 3x more likely to speak out than supporters.

Property Search 4

2

Listings in over 90 b.c. communities 4 2

3 2 3

2

2

RightSizingMedia.com/BCPropertySearch

SMART PROPERTY INVESTING We asked two seasoned B.C. property investors to run down a potential scenario—here’s what two successful investments, with different motivations and outcomes, might look like.

By Michelle Hopkins

In 1990, Michael Miller purchased his first investment property, a three-bedroom town home in Chilliwack. At the time, the then-19-year-old had a down payment of $5,000.

Nearly three decades later, the 48-year-old owns 15 investment properties in booming B.C. communities like Chilliwack and Prince George.

Though “location” is considered real estate’s keyword, for investors like Miller “jobs, jobs, jobs,” is the key phrase—when the employment sector is robust, rental demand is strong. “Go where the jobs are: this will ensure a steady flow of renters,” advises Miller.

CASH FLOW AND MORE Michael Miller considers how you could profit from investing in a potentially undervalued Chilliwack town home turned rental property.

•

Purchase price: $300,000

•

Down payment: $60,000

•

Mortgage: $240,000

•

Monthly mortgage payment: $1,135.79*

•

Expenses: $1,473.80/month (includes property tax $130.50, strata payments of z$207.51)**

•

Income: $1,700/month rent

•

ROI, cash flow model: 4.5% annually ($226.20/month or $2,714.40/year)

•

ROI principal reduction model: 10.9% annually ($6,563.27 in first year, increasing slightly in each subsequent year depending on financing)

•

Total ROI: 15.4%

THE POWER OF UNDERVALUED PROPERTY Now a realtor with Katronis Real Estate Team, Miller helps other investors find potential in B.C.’s smaller cities. “Years after I began investing, I would find out that a little research and a good realtor would have greatly assisted my investment efforts,” Miller says. “With each property I purchased, and the more I spoke to others who had made similar investments, I realized the true Return on Investments (ROIs) were actually way better than I thought.”

* based on a mortgage of 3.0% 5-year fixed term, 25-year amortization. ** there are other possible costs included but not limited to: closing costs, conveyancing, lawyer fees and property management (if you choose)

Fall 2019

Right Sizing

31

Kamloops: one of B.C.’s great towns for investment property.

As with all investments, there is risk. But Miller’s favoured strategy is to find an undervalued, underperforming cash-flow property that can be rented, even in poor market conditions.

Knowing the market, finding out the sale history of potential unvalued listings and networking with local experts like property managers are a few of Miller’s strategies for finding buildings that can yield cash flow and generate wealth.

FOUR TYPES OF INVESTMENTS FUNDING A RETIREMENT OR A LEGACY Jason Pender looks at the same investment through the lens of creating future retirement income and a legacy, rather than cash flow and profits.

•

The buyer: 40 or 45 years old today

•

Mortgage term: 25-year amortization, to be paid off by target retirement date

•

Income: rental income of $1,700 per month will have increased to as much as $3,000/month* in 25 years

•

Expenses: $750-$1,100/month by end of mortgage term*

•

Retirement income: $1,900$2,250/month

•

Legacy: estimated $600,000 property value after 25 years

*at estimated 2.25% growth per year (with inflation)

32

Right Sizing

Fall 2019

Investor Michael Miller classifies investment properties into four categories of income. The first two are cash flow, in which you net the money from your rental income minus expenses; and principal reduction, where you benefit from the amount of principal paid off on your mortgage by your tenants’ rent payments. T he last two are principal appreciation (you build wealth through the amount that properties go up in value year over year) and active appreciation (you increase the value of your asset through improvements or renovations that increase the property value).

“I am pretty conservative in my investments, so I have mostly invested in properties concentrating on the first two buckets,” adds Miller. “This makes it less stressful, as I do not have to time the market and I am never in the position that I have to sell in a down market: the investment is secured by the rent.”

FINDING THE IDEAL INVESTMENT PROPERTY Jason Pender, from real estate development and investment company JVDEV Real Estate Group, agrees that real estate investing is a big commitment, and “it’s important to really understand it before you dive in.” He advises assessing your financial situation and your goals—whether that’s to generate retirement income, build wealth or leave a legacy for your family. “If you look at the simple fundamentals of real estate, you typically own and hold over a period of time,” notes Pender. “If you can hold in good and bad markets, you will make money.”

Pender also believes that smaller-market investing is strategic: “There is less upfront capital cost required, which should be far easier for an investor to acquire when compared to higher density larger markets,” he says. However, the same due diligence is required, no matter the size of investment: rental vacancy and demand numbers, economic growth and new-job stats, ROI and asset appreciation potential are just a few of the indicators he recommends.

PARKVIEW ESTATES, SICAMOUS, BC PRICES FROM $329,000 TO $469,000 (LOT AND HOUSE) Offering custom homes by Green Emerald Construction, providing energy efficient building since 2003, or Modulux Design, a custom modular home and park model manufacturer since 1991.

Parkview Estates is ideally situated in the town of Sicamous, with quiet streets, within walking distance of shopping, schools, parks and the lake. Enjoy four seasons of recreation and lifestyle in the beautiful Shuswap region.

GREEN EMERALD has building lots and new homes available in Salmon Arm and Sicamous.

MODULUX has homes delivered anywhere in the province and built to meet CSA standard codes.

Phone 250-833-5855 Email office@greenemeraldinc.com Website greenemeraldinc.com

Phone 250-766-3053 Email moduluxdesign@hotmail.com Website parkmodelsandcabins.com

GREEN EMERALD AWARDS: Winners of Canadian Homebuilder awards for Energy Efficiency and Environmental Initiative.

MODULUX AWARDS: Winners of Tommie Award: Silver for “Best Outside of the Box”, “Excellence in Singe Family Dwelling Under $350K”, “Excellence in Kitchen Design”

Efficient post-and-panel building has the rustic look of post and beam. Photo courtesy of Trinity Post and Panel

FUNCTION OVER FORMULA Building a custom home is more attainable and practical than it has ever been—and it can be more affordable, too. Here are four trends making custom home building accessible, efficient and fun.

By Lisa Manfield

Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing or right sizing, there’s much to explore with a custom home design—strategies that can save you time and money, and give you a more functional space. Putting more emphasis on quality rather than just square footage is the biggest trend that Kathy Yuen, president of Phase One Design, sees today. She works with everyone from young couples to empty nesters to design their modern-day dream homes. “People were under the impression that a custom home has to be a monster home—but now they’re realizing that there’s a better way: prioritizing the quality of the square footage with smart design, multi-functional spaces and high-quality finishings,” even on a budget, she says.

From cottage-style homes and post-and-panel building to lifestyle-friendly home additions, the sky can be the limit when it comes to designing the kind of house you can truly call home.

34

Right Sizing

Fall 2019

GO COTTAGING Danny Mauro, a design and consulting associate with Discovery Dream Homes West, has been working on a project that represents one of the big trends he’s seen this year: cottage-style homes.

“We’re seeing a lot more owner builds by people who have a defined sense of how they want to finish their place—and who have tight budgets,” he says. “People are looking for modest cottage-style homes in the 1,000- to 1,500-square-foot range.”

Mauro says that in this case, the couple he’s working with owns property in Shawnigan Lake and built a log home there 15 years ago.

“They were allowed to build a second residence on the property, so they went with a budget log cabin, which they morphed into a cool modern take on a classic chalet.”

The couple chose a West Coast grey colour palette for the 1,400-square-foot chalet, as well as an eco-wood finish and prestained Douglas Fir flooring in a grey wash. Concrete countertops and cabinets rounded out their modern design. “They did the whole cabin for $300,000 and put a lot of elbow grease into the place.”

POST-AND-PANEL PLANS Log homes often come with a labour-intensive construction budget, but Ken Harper of Trinity Post and Panel has found a way around that problem: post-and-panel building. “The majority of people I speak to like post-and-beam style construction, but it’s expensive and labour intensive,” he says.

Harper spent 10 years looking for a way to take the labour out of post-and-beam construction, and ended up creating a prefab system that delivers on efficiency, enabling homes to be put together in days rather than weeks. “I discovered that polyurethane insulated panels deliver the most value you can get for the space they take up,” he says. “I created a channel that you could fit the panel in, and left room for a channel outside for siding, and a panel inside for drywall.”

Harper’s product exceeds the latest building code standards and is more efficient to build. “It’s faster to put together on the job site, and takes less skilled labour,” he says. “And because we use standard timber sizes, we use fewer parts. They’re all interlocking like Lego, so we can mass-produce homes efficiently.”

NAVIGATING PRE-CONSTRUCTION If you’re new to custom home building, all the decisions you’ll need to make—from buying the land, to designing the home and choosing all the finishings— may be overwhelming. Kathy Yuen of Phase One Design leads her clients through the process with these practical tips.

•

Gather photos. “Go on Pinterest and gather photos of what you love,” she says, so you’ll be able to communicate that to your designer. She adds, “Don’t think about budget at this stage.”

•

Tour open houses. “Drive around the neighbourhood where you’ve purchased land and get some real-life examples,” she says. “Tour open houses to get a sense of the space.”

•

Budget. “Have a range that you’re comfortable spending and share it with your designer,” she says. “We can tailor the design and scope toward your budget, and if it’s not realistic we can work through different options.”

Cottage-chic style, like this Comox cabin, is hot. Photo courtesy of Discovery Dream Homes

Fall 2019

Right Sizing

35

Consider starting small and then scaling up, similar to this enlarged cabin in Whistler. Photo courtesy of Pan-Abode/Reactive Design

START SMALL, PHASE UP If the prospect of building a custom home is intimidating, consider starting with a smaller project. Yuen says she’s worked with clients who take a phased building approach to developing their property.

“If you’re developing an acreage or a property in a smaller community, it’s easier to get a smaller structure on [the lot], like a guest house or a suite, and then come back and focus on the larger structure when you can put the time, effort and resources into doing something bigger.”

But Yuen says there are certain considerations you should be aware of if phased building is your plan. “My biggest piece of advice if you’re phasing a project is to consider it as a whole,” she says. Specifically, look into the zoning bylaws for your location, as some properties are only zoned for one dwelling. But even if you are allowed multiple builds, you’ll need to consider how you’ll service multiple structures with water, sewers and access roads. “Make a site plan and do your due diligence with the long-term picture in mind,” Yuen says.

LIVE INSIDE AND OUT Indoor/outdoor living areas are very popular in B.C., says Yuen, as they enable owners to enjoy the outdoors no matter the weather.

“We’ve done full-width folding doors where the whole wall opens up,” she says. “Some even have TVs in them, like outdoor living rooms.”

And why stop there? It is your dream home, after all, so dream 36

Right Sizing

Fall 2019

big. “We’re seeing a lot of homes where owners want to customize for their lifestyle with basketball courts, squash courts and bike rooms,” Yuen says. “A recent client walked into a zoo conservatory and decided they wanted that in their house. So we’re in the midst of creating this super cool space to house butterflies and birds!”

ADD AN OUTBUILDING Outbuildings have become a popular way to expand the functionality of your property, and can serve as a quiet hideaway right outside your home, says Rauvin Manhas, president of Pan-Abode International, which specializes in high-end cedar homes. He describes one current project, in which the Pan-Abode structure is a complementary building: “The main home has cedar accents, and the outbuilding is functioning as a prayer room.”

“People were under the impression that a custom home has to be a monster home—but now they’re realizing that there’s a better way.”

Outbuildings can also serve as bunkhouses, workspaces or extra storage. “We’re also getting a lot of people looking at higher-end solid cedar saunas,” Manhas says. But aside from the potential for a quiet retreat, the best thing about adding an outbuilding is that they’re permit-free if under 10 square meters, “so you get extra space without running through all the regulations,” says Manhas.

Where the energy of nature, sparks the energy of the people – no matter where you sit on the energy dial. Where birdwatching recharges some, wakeboarding refuels others. All ultimately are inspered, rejuvenated and enthused. Because in Sicamous we believe in a life lived with spark!

sicamous is a way of life.

•

Fall, winter, spring or summer – Sicamous has it all

•

Houseboat Capital of Canada

•

Wineries, distilleries & boutique shops

•

All-season trail networks, Western Canada’s best sledding

•

6 Public boat launches

•

Great all-season fishing

•

Situated on the channel connecting Shuswap and Mara Lakes

•

Revitalization Tax Incentives

•

40 minute drive to two major mountain resorts

•

World class golf course

•

Future head of Rail Trail, Sicamous to Armstrong, coming soon

•

Work remote, stay connected

•

Kelowna International Airport, 90 minutes away

work, play, invest www.sicamous.ca 250-836-2477 info@sicamous.ca

@DOSicamous

On the Market The definitive guide to nearly 150 farmers markets across B.C. is at bcfarmersmarkettrail.com. It splits the province into 10 market-rich regions, including some of Right Sizing’s favourites, featured here.

38

Right Sizing

Fall 2019

Harvest Towns

All over B.C., locals are harvesting, preparing and savouring the best that their region has to drink, eat and do over the fall season. Here are several starting points for filling your autumn harvest basket.

By Charlene Rooke

The Nakusp Farmers Market.Photo by Destination BC / Kari Medig

Fall 2019

Right Sizing

39

Kelowna and area With more than 40 wineries, a dozen craft beer, cider and spirit makers and produce options that include 30 cherry varieties alone, Kelowna is at its best during harvest season.

EVENTS

FARM TO GLASS

At the Fall Okanagan Wine Festival, go

Some of the newest spots include Upside Cider (on an organic farm, with a year-round

to a grape-stomping party, sample mead at

market selling local provisions), Wiseacre Farm Distillery and the tasting-room patio

Meadow Vista Honey Winery or dine with

at Forbidden Spirits in southeast Kelowna (distilling top-shelf vodka from local apples).

winemakers al fresco in local vineyards.

You can even stay the night at Soma Cider, a working alpaca farm and Farm Inn with

On September 21, Appleooza offers live

nine contemporary, boutique-style rooms (book through AirBnb).

music and food trucks along with local-cider tastings in the orchard setting of Scenic Road Cider.

FARMS At the Okanagan Lavendar & Herb Farm, sample tea and scones, shop for candles and soaps, do a family-friendly Busy Bees tour of the farm or sign up for workshops that walk you through the garden to create treats for the home, body and pantry. Arlo’s Honey Farm in the hills of southeast Kelowna has a sweet tasting bar and gift shop (but no tours after August 15, for the “health and happiness of our bees”)—find fresh-

Cycling the Myra Canyon section of the Kettle Valley Railway near Kelowna. Photo courtesy Destination BC/Grant Harder

cut honeycomb, honey mustard, jellies and fall produce (like squash, pumpkins and corn) from the farm.

FUN Giro Cycle Tours day-tour options include a Cycle and Savour circuit of East Kelowna that stops at farms, orchards and wineries and includes a gourmet picnic lunch by star local chef Mark Filatow; a tour exploring the Italian food and wine heritage of Kelowna; and a roll through Lake Country market farms, from Oyama to Winfield. Multi-day packages in Naramata, West Kelowna and the South Okanagan cycle together local culinary and wine experiences with luxe accommodations.

Build your own harvest adventure along 50 easy-peddling kilometres of the Okanagan Rail Trail, connecting farming communities along the discontinued CN Rail corridor, from Kelowna to Coldstream. An interactive map (okanaganrailtrail.ca) helps you pick orchards and vineyards where you want to take a breather.

Evolve Cellars vineyard overlooking Okanagan Lake in Summerland.

Photo by Destination BC / Kari Medig

40

Right Sizing

Fall 2019

Gyro Beach TOWNHOMES

URBAN LAKESIDE LIVING Live only steps from Kelowna’s finest beach and just a short walk from Pandosy Village, an urban centre buzzing with life and local culture.

Lakeside living meets urban retreat.

Surround yourself with the vibrancy that makes Kelowna one of the most desired cities in Canada.

Fill your life with more of what matters.

Enjoy privacy and lakeviews on your luxury rooftop terrace as large as 655 SF, contemporary elegance and a modern floor-plan with a private elevator accessible on all levels, from 1,475 SF to 2,075 SF in size.

Homes starting from $950,000

LAST PHASE SELLING NOW !

MORE INFORMATION

GYROBEACH.CA

VISIT OUR NEW SHOWHOME 3510 Landie Road, Kelowna

BOOK YOUR PRIVATE SHOWING call 250 860 2400

south Okanagan Whether you’re chowing down on a breakfast sandwich on the sunny patio at Penticton’s The Bench, grazing through the lakeside Saturday market or just drinking in the fall colours at a winery, the valley southbound to Osoyoos is never riper for exploration than in the fall months.

FARMS Things get cheesy near Naramata, where two stops command foodie attention. Meet new best friends like King Cole and Grey Baby cheeses at the Upper Bench Winery & Creamery; sample them with a glass of vino and wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizza at the Oven Wine Bar. Poplar Grove Cheese is famous for its Okanagan Double Cream Camembert, and cheese maker Louise Pearson

EVENTS

offers occasional cheese-making classes.

During fall Wine Festival season, the Sensation event at Penticton

Toward Oliver, 650-acre Covert Farms Family Estate is a must-

Lakeside Resort matches local wines with art and music that

stop for families, where kids will love Hands on Harvest farm tours

matches their moods. And on October 5 and 6, Cropped at the

(weekends only in October) that include a ride in a 1952 Mercury

Penticton Trade and Convention Centre brings together 250 wines

pick-up and meeting the resident farm animals (and grown-ups will

with food from local providers (there’s a Top Cat Tours shuttle from

gravitate to the shady wine-tasting patio).

Kelowna for area residents).

Festival of the Grape on October 6 in Oliver is a chance to see actual foot-stomping of grapes—plus taste fine wines and food-truck fare and browse a local market and art show. For the first time this year, a VIP zone ticket also provides educational classes, nibbles and exclusive access to grape growers and wine makers. Check out oliverosooyos.com for particpating local wineries.

FUN Chef’s Table dinners at Backyard Farms

Farming connections at Covert Farms. Photo courtesy oliverosoyoos.com

are the hottest reservation in the valley.

Chef Chris Van Hooydonk locally sources

FARM TO GLASS

what he can’t grow on the property (in-

42

Right Sizing

cluding delicious Ocean Wise red snapper,

Six breweries form the self-guided Penticton Ale Trail (find a

sustainably aquacultured at Delicasea in

three-day itinerary crafted for you at bcaletrail.ca). The Spirited

Oliver). Groups of 10 to 12 can book a pri-

Brews Cruise bike tour by Hoodoo Adventures in Penticton guides

vate workshop with the chef, to help harvest

two-wheeled particpants along the Kettle Valley Rail Trail above

and prepare, or just watch and learn, how

Okanagan Lake, before retiring your wheels to partake in a picnic

the freshest local food is best savoured.

lunch and chauffered local brewery and distillery tour.

Fall 2019

Welcome to the Fastest Growing Community in the Central Okanagan!

Farm fresh food and wine.

A thriving economy with diverse employment.

25 minutes to UBC Okanagan and Kelowna International Airport.

Planned neighbourhoods for Lakeside living and active lifestyles.

We’re growing more than grapes.

Recognized in 2019 by Maclean’s Magazine as the 12th best city in Canada to live in.

westkelownacity.ca John Perrott, Economic Development Officer john.perrott@westkelownacity.ca | 778.797.2215

North Okanagan

(including Lake Country and Shuswap)

Local food (much of it organic and sustainably farmed) is readily available and surprisingly affordable at markets and restaurants, where the region’s mix of traditional family agriculture and high-tech farming (like Farmcrest Foods, Canada’s first verified non-GMO chicken farm, or the fully automated “robotic” Brandsma Dairy Farm) is the pride of the community.

FARMS

FARM TO GLASS The so-called “triang-ale

View some spectacularly shaggy beasts or buy meat at Turtle Valley Bison Ranch

trail” of Kamloops, the

in Chase, taste more than 50 varieties of apples and fresh apple juice at Hanna

Shuswap and Vernon area has

and Hanna Farm Market in Salmon Arm or take a Sweet Retreat at Sweetacre

its own B.C. Ale Trail, with

Apiaries in Tappen (September 12 to 14) to learn beekeeping.

six microbreweries on tap.

And there are now over half a dozen wineries, including award-winning Ovino and new Marionette Winery in Salmon Arm (download a route map to tour them at shuswapwineries.ca),

In the Vernon area, farm markets like Burke’s, Swan Lake Nurseryland and Davison Orchards Country Village (next to Planet Bee apiary, which has farm animals, orchard tours and a kids’ play area) are places to find and taste fall’s bounty. Catch the last of the cherries in early September at Peter’s UPick, order certified organic meat from Vale Farms and stock up on gouda made near Cherryville at Triple Island Cheese Farm.

developing B.C.’s next hot wine region.

EVENTS

FUN

The Salmon Arm Fall Fair happens September

It’s a unique form of entertainment: the Caravan Farm Theatre makes the

6 to 8 and includes everything from horse

most of its outdoor setting on an 80-acre farm northwest of Armstrong

shows to livestock. The annual Fungi Festival

to stage thrilling classics, musicals and original productions. This fall,

in Sicamous on September 27 to 29 has

a mask-wearing cast of 100 guide you in the interactive Walk of Terror

walks and talks led by a mushroom biolo-

(“part Burning Man, part Nuit Blanche”) October 25 and 26 with a

gist, mushroom-themed food classes, crafts

dance party to follow!

and art. Do yoga with goats or experience Family Daze in the Corn Maze in October at Vernon’s historic O’Keefe Ranch. Fintry Fall Fair on September 8, the Enderby Pumpkin Festival at Green Croft Gardens and Harvest Pumpkin Festival Family Fun Day in October are other harvest celebration dates in the area.

44

Right Sizing

Fall 2019

Cooking classes and wine tastings flow year-round for residents of the Predator Ridge community near Vernon, and fresh local produce, wine and charcuterie, chocolate, condiments, dairy and prepared meals make its Commonage Market a worthy harvestseason stop for everyone—the market even sells its own Commonage Lanata wines, in partnership with next-door Ex Nihilo Vineyards.

Salmon Arm has big opportunities for anyone seeking a more grounded lifestyle

Salmon Arm is located in British Columbia’s interior, directly on the Trans Canada Highway, midway between Calgary and Vancouver. Situated along 1,000 kilometers of breathtaking Shuswap Lake shoreline, you will find our growing city of close to 20,000 residents.

You can live better here. With scenery, fresh air and good-for-the-soul weather that makes you happy to be alive every time you look out your window. There’s a 10-minute commute to work that’s pretty much over before it starts, followed by a job that asks a lot of you and gives a lot in return. Productive days are followed by relaxed evenings on the lake, on the trails, at cafes, at the movies, or at the rink. With a long growing season, warm Shuswap climate, and weekly farmers’ markets where you’ll meet up with all your neighbours, you can always have access to locally grown food. You can live the Hundred-Mile Diet here if you were so inclined. You’ll define balance on your own terms and it’ll become the best kind of habit.

Salmon Arm is a city that looks beyond its lake and mountains towards the future. With one of the most diverse economy’s in the Province and record-breaking growth rates, there are exciting jobs in every sector. Our exceptional lifestyle has attracted the very best talent who are leading our high-tech companies, advanced manufacturing firms, and agri-tech businesses. Salmon Arm is a small city with big, attractive ideas. To be clear we’re not just looking for the next big thing, we’re planning to be a part of it!

Our cost of living is notably lower than larger urban centres, particularly when it comes to housing. Whether you chose a

single family home, an acreage, an apartment or condo, Salmon Arm can offer you what you need at a price point that won’t break the bank. Designed as a walkable community, residents have easy access to biking and hiking trails and neighbourhood parks.

In Salmon Arm, there’s always a seat at the table for new families, new talent, and new entrepreneurs.

Working together and we know this from experience – we serve up our best. There’s a place here for you too.

Want to know more? Visit: www.saeds.ca Photo Credits: Kristal Burgess Photography

Victoria area / Saanich Peninsula Even after the Labour Day weekend Saanich Fair, celebrate fall via roadside stands offering everything from eggs to bouquets on the honour-system (stuff your money in the box or jar)—among the charms of exploring the farming areas just beyond Victoria.

EVENTS

FARMS

Mark the harvest moon at the Asian-inspired Moon

De Vine Vineyards is 25 acres of beehives, grapes, botanicals that

Festival Lantern Celebration on September 14, a

go into gin distilled on site and more, all growing strong thanks to

free, family-friendly event with lantern making and

organic methods. Both wine and spirits are available in the tasting

an illuminated procession through Lambrick Park.

room, and grain-to-glass aficionados can even take whisky school with master distiller Ken Winchester.

The Fickle Fig isn’t just a charming bistro: it’s a year-round market, bakery and cafe. Walk around the gardens (say hi to the rabbits, pigs, miniature goats and sheep!), then shop for everything from ethically raised meat to fresh produce, preserves and crusty bread. Monthly cooking classes cover bread, pasta, cheese and pastry making using top local products.

FARM TO GLASS

FUN

Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse grows more than 50 varieties of

The Roost Farm Bakery and

certified organic heritage apples that go into its ciders and cider

Vineyard makes the most

vinegar, available alongside local farm products here. Compli-

of its 10 acres: wheat grown

mentary tours of the orchard and cider making process should

and milled on-site is used in

naturally end with a tall, cold cider enjoyed on the patio.

the bakery and the property’s

Judged the Best Contemporary Gin in the world in 2019, Sheringham Seaside Gin has a not-so-secret ingredient: hand-harvested local winged kelp. Visit Sooke to find out how they make their stellar grain-to-glass spirits, including award-winning whisky from Red Fife wheat and Scandinavian akvavit, during complimentary daily tours and tastings from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

46

Right Sizing

Fall 2019

blueberries, sheep and grapes all appear in Vineyard Bistro and Farm Bakery offerings. Eat a snack on the so-called chicken-bus, picnic out back or book a farm tour for your group that includes a medieval-themed dungeon.

Cowichan Valley With more than 700 farms (and one of B.C.’s largest farmers markets, in Duncan), the place that James Barber called Canada’s Provence is the only region in the country where you’ll find emu, ostrich, and alpaca products, plus everything from nuts and wild mushrooms to tea and heritage-grain bread, all in one valley.

EVENTS

FARMS

At Merridale Cidery & Distillery, B.C.’s oldest estate cidery, you

Cheese please? Groups of 10 or more

can book a farm tour, go “glamping” in luxe orchard yurts, enjoy

can book a tour and tasting at nearby

Sunday pizza nights with live entertainment or drink in the Cider

Haltwhistle Cheese Co., where 100

Harvest Festival on September 29.

resident goats, plus milk from nearby Balme Ayr Farm, make 15 cheeses,

FUN

including feta, gooey-soft washed-rind rounds and a nutty, earthy

Alderlea Farm Café, just five kilometres from Duncan and open Friday to Sunday, welcomes cycling groups for refuelling stops of field-fresh food, and even has a two-bedroom loft guesthouse for longer stays. There’s wood-fired pizza topped with local goodies every Sunday afternoon, too. The farm-curious will want to sign up for the farm’s multi-week biodynamic growing workshop, for an insider look at traditional, sustainable cultivation.

Don’t pick in the wild without expert tutelage from chef, cookbook author and mycologist Bill Jones, who

alpine tomme de valée, considered their signature nibble.

Canada’s only commercial tea grower, Westholme Tea Farm outside of Duncan, has farm tours every Thursday and Sunday, and stirs both a hot cuppa and the soul in its tearoom and farm art gallery. Yellow Point Cranberries in Ladysmith offers free harvest-season tastings on certain dates and ticketed, guided farm tours followed by a tasting of cranberry juice and baked goodies.

FARM TO GLASS

leads morel and other wild-food foraging tours out

There are also 14 wineries and three craft distilleries in the val-

of Deerholme Farm (a 10-minute drive southwest of

ley, and eight brewery stops between Duncan and Sayward on the

Duncan). Weekend cooking classes, farm-to-table

Vancouver Island Part 1 leg of the B.C. Ale Trail (bcaletrail.ca).

dinners (including an Italian mushroom feast in

Outside the late-August Cowichan Valley Wine Festival, you can

September and a duck and mushroom dinner in

visit many winery tasting rooms on a self-guided tour (download

October) are other reasons to visit during

the map at tourismcowichan.com/activities/sip-savour)—or with

harvest season.

a variety of local tour companies.

Life on lake time.

COWICH AN L A KE , B C

Lots from 159K | Boatslip Included Register Now @ NorthShoreEstates.ca

Comox Valley This fertile chunk of the Island is home to everything from poultry and meat, veggie and fruit, honey and dairy and even seafood producers.

EVENTS

FARMS

The ninth annual Comox Valley Farm Cycle

The Comox Valley Growers Guide (download or read at discovercomoxvalley.com/discover/

rolls around in September: more than 400

explore/dine-drink/growers-guide/) is your bible to fall foodie touring—more than 150 busi-

cyclists visited 29 farms last year. The Rotary

nesses are listed, with detailed self-touring routes to visit them.

Club of Courtenay hosts a Beer & Cider Fest on a sudsy night in September, with two dozen sets of Island taps pouring samples.

If you prefer to buy your local, ethically raised meat from the source, join the CSE The Lost Box (organic, pasture-raised local meats delivered to your home from Lost Savanna Farm) or attend the annual North Island 4-H Auction at the Coombs Fairgrounds (check I4HAuction on Facebook).

FARM TO GLASS

FUN

Some of B.C.’s finest single malt whisky (and craft gin with locally foraged

If you grow more

botanicals) comes from a farm on the Oyster River, where Shelter Point

than you can

Distillery is located. Take a free tour (Wednesday to Sunday, 12 to 5 p.m.)

eat, the Comox

or sip at the tasting bar. Distilling delicious gin, vodka, rum and a scrump-

Valley Food Bank

tious Krupnik liqueur from B.C. honey, Wayward Distillation House in

Grow-a-Row

Courtenay has complimentary tastes and tours from noon to 6 p.m. daily.

program is for you:

Local wine-tasting options include Beaufort Vineyard and Estate Winery (which was the first), Blue Moon (also home to Ciderworx) and Coastal Black Estate (a fruit winery and blackberry farm). You can even take a helicopter tour over this scenic region with 49 North, touching down at one of its local winery or distillery partners for a taste.

donate part of your personal harvest, and they’ll even send a refrigerated van to pick up your excess garden goodies.

BELOW: A plate of clams at the BC Shellfish & Seafood Festival in

Comox. Photo by Destination BC / Boomer Jerritt

50

Right Sizing

Fall 2019

Play. Stay. Dine.... Live.

Experience the ultimate home base at Crown Isle.

Host facility of the Mackenzie Tour - PGA TOUR Canada Qualifying School

Crown Isle Resort is your destination for any event, business or social. With 7000 feet of conference space, on-site accommodation, family friendly pub and fine dining options, we offer convenience, full service and fun for corporate or social gatherings. Our Graham Cooke-designed 18-hole championship golf course is playable for golfers at all skill levels.

From condominiums and patio homes to single family ranchers and fairway estates, our community offers easy access to recreation, shopping & amenities including the airport, hospital and schools. The Comox Valley region offers activities from ocean to alpine and everywhere in between.

Jason Andrew

Director of Real Estate

Jayson Welsh

Bert Jaeger

Vice President of Construction

REALTORÂŽ

TF

888-338-8439 | CrownIsle.com | 250-703-5000

Sandy Bain

REALTORÂŽ

fraser valley With five routes on the Circle Farm Tour program, the Fraser Valley could keep farm visitors busy all harvest season. Langley, Abbotsford, Chilliwack, Maple Ridge/Pitt Meadows and Agassiz/Harrison Mills all have their own self-guided routes (download at circlefarmtour.com) of about a dozen stops each, including farm-gate vendors, markets, wineries, breweries and eateries.

FARM TO GLASS The Mt. Lehman Sojourn in the Country is an Abbotsford-area wine route past Mt. Lehman, Seaside Pearl and Singletree Wineries, plus Old Abbey Ales, Tangles Bistro at Tanglebank plant nursery, Tuscan Farm Gardens and other like-minded rural stops. The Abbottsford area also has worthy fruit-winery stops including

FARMS

Maan Farms and Ripples Wineries, plus Campbells Gold Honey

The Chilliwack Circle Farm Tour includes Fantasy Farms (home of the Chilliwack Garlic Festival and a fun haunted-farm attraction starting in late September), Old Yale Brewing, plus honey, grain, blueberry, poultry, cheese and soap producers, along with farm market The Local Harvest and gourmet paradise Hofstede’s Country Barn.

Farm and Meadery.

“Hop to bottle” ultra-local beer is a Fraser Valley specialty, since locations like McMath Farms grow hops. The Fraser Valley Ale Trail (bcaletrail.ca) has cycling, driving and transit/walking options for six stops, including Old Yale, Flashback, Ravens, Field House, Dead Frog and Trading Post breweries.

FUN The Instagram-ready B.C. Sunflower Trail lists a handful of stops,

EVENTS

including the Chilliwack Sunflower Festival that runs through

The Agassiz Fall Fair (September 13-14), Harvest Festival

September 16. The Chilliwack Corn Maze and indoor Hay Bale Maze

(September 22) or Thanksgiving dinners (October 12-14) at

(don’t forget to pick a pumpkin while you’re there) are equally pho-

Kilby Historic Site in Harrison Mills are prime days to visit the

tographable: you can even do a flashlight maze after dark!

valley in harvest season.

Vista D’oro Vineyard, Langley, B.C. Photo by Destination BC / Albert Normandin

52

Right Sizing

Fall 2019

10.33” x 12.25”

Base 10 is Chilliwack’s newest master-planned townhome community conveniently located on Thomas Road just south of Promontory Road.

With distinctive modern architecture on the outside and bright spacious layouts on the inside expertly finished in your choice of our designer colour scheme you’ll want to make Base 10 your home.

These three level, three bedroom plus den, and three bedroom plus income suite option homes are ideal for first-time buyers and families of all ages. Our floor plans range from 1,500 to 2,100 square feet.

If being located close to shopping, schools and recreation is important, you’ve found it!

Phase 1 is now selling. Register on-line to get on our list to receive updates and special offers.

YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD. YOUR LIFE. YOUR HOME BASE. ©2019 Base10 – In our continuing effort to improve and maintain the high standards of Base10, the developer reserves the right to modify or change plans, specifications, features and prices without notice. Illustrations and renderings reflect the artist’s interpretation of the project. When built, actual suites, amenities, building interiors, exteriors and views may be noticeably different than what is depicted. This is not an offering for sale. Any such offering can only be made with the applicable disclosure statement and agreement of purchase and sale. E&OE.

NOW SELLING PRE-CONSTRUCTION PRICING STARTING AT $470,000

SALES CENTRE NOW OPEN ON THOMAS RD. JUST SOUTH OF PROMONTORY RD. OPEN MONDAY & SATURDAY 1PM – 5PM (OR BY APPOINTMENT)

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BOOK APPOINTMENT

604.991.9951

VEDDER RD.

Chilliwack’s newest townhome community

PROMONTORY RD.

THOMAS RD. NORTH

www.Base10Living.com

Sunshine Coast Ferry-reliant Coasters aspire to build their own sustainable food systems, for less reliance on the Lower Mainland and beyond. Find all kinds of locally produced goodies at the Gibsons Public Market (buy a passport for discounts around town) or gourmet shops like the divine Plethora in Sechelt.

EVENTS

FARMS

The Halfmoon Bay Apple Festival includes a taste of local

In Powell River, the Coast Berry

Bricker Cider (try the Suncoaster, made using local donated

Company offers strawberries,

fruit). The Sunshine Coast Mushroom Festival and Mushroom

blueberries and preserves for

Show includes guided walks, cooking demonstrations and speak-

sale at the farm.

ers. Watch for dates in October.

Persephone Brewing, on the outskirts of Gibsons, is more

FUN

than a craft brewery. It’s a

Northern Divine Caviar in Sechelt produces the only sustainable,

egg and honey operations run by

organic sturgeon caviar in the world (the Duke and Duchess

local partners, and a farm that

of Cambridge even tried it when they visited B.C.). They also

sells fresh veggies in the tasting

produce smoked canned sturgeon and “sturgeon tail” treats for

room and at on-site Sunday

dogs: you’ll see it for sale and on menus all along the coast, or

farmers markets. Locals can

buy online at northerndivine.com.

order a CSA box bursting with

community agriculture hub, with

farm-grown tomatoes, squash, peppers, sweet beets, rainbow chard—plus beer!

Persephone Brewery food truck in Gibsons. Photo

by Destination BC / Local Wanderer

FARM TO BOTTLE Bruinwood Estate Distillery in Roberts Creek is a family-farm operation producing terroir products that taste of the region—from refreshingly crisp blackberry vodka to rhubarb gin.

54

Right Sizing

Fall 2019

Kootenay Rockies & Columbia Valley In this fiercely local swath of the interior, a new non-profit has published the Columbia Valley Food and Farm guide (foodandfarm.ca) touting Valley providers and culinary culture, with 30 sipping and sampling stops.

EVENTS In an autumn weekend blitz, the Creston Valley Fall Fair is September 6 and 7, Rossland celebrates with a parade and a Fall Fair at the arena on the 7th, and on the 8th the Kootenay Country

A patron to Empire Coffee in Nelson, sits in the solarium. Photo by Destination BC / Kari Medig

Fair at Fort Steele Heritage Town (northeast of Cranbrook) has a petting zoo, games for kids—and bragging rights for winning growers and producers. Watch for fall fairs in the communities of Argenta and Harrop, too.

FARM TO GLASS This region takes craft beer so seriously, there are not one but two BC Ale Trails (bcaletrail.ca), for the West (eight breweries, including Revelstoke’s venerable Mt. Begbie Brewing) and East (the five breweries of Trail, Nelson and Kaslo). Burton City Cider (south of Nakusp on Highway 6) and William Tell Family Estate in Creston are stops for cider fans. The Ethos gin (made from the triticale hybrid grain) from Monashee Spirits in Revelstoke was the Canadian Artisan Spirit of the Year in 2019: sip samples or get a tour from Wednesday to Sunday.

Tourists at the Kaslo Saturday Market. Photo by Destination BC / Kari Medig

FARMS

FUN

Winderberry in Windermere is a greenhouse, café, catering

Love garlic? More than 160 vendors of

company and CSA box supplier through its Edible Acres farm; it’s

garlic-inspired products (as well as other

open until Thanksgiving, with a Harvest Market on October 12.

organic produce plus crafts) will join food

Beeland Market in Spillimacheen has fresh honey, preserves and

vendors, musicians and entertainers to bring

personal-care products, plus an eatery with gourmet sandwiches

a zero-waste chow-down to New Denver for the

and soups for takeout. And centralkootenayfood.ca shows dozens

Hills Garlic Festival on September 8. Contests for

of great local-food resources in the region.

the heaviest clove, largest bulb, prettiest garlic braid and wreath and even best garlic-related poem are highlights of the day.

Weekend market in downtown Revelstoke. Photo by Destination BC / Kari Medig

Fall 2019

Right Sizing

55

TWO SIDES If you’re considering going south for a primary or vacation home, both the desert and the coast make worthy investments. Here’s a look at two popular sun destinations— one long established, and the other still flying under the radar.

By Matt O’Grady

For Western Canadian snowbirds, the attraction to Southern California and Mexico’s Pacific Coast stretches back decades. For California, Palm Springs developed an aura of glam in the 1950s and ’60s, when Hollywood stars such as Frank Sinatra, Marlene Dietrich and Bob Hope established second homes in the desert. For Mexico, it was the release of Tennessee Williams’ The Night of the Iguana in 1964, starring Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, that spurred international interest and development in Puerto Vallarta and the Pacific coast.

PALM SPRINGS: QUEEN OF THE DESERT WHY Palm Springs and its (almost) guaranteed 350 annual days of sunshine are just a hop, skip or a jump from most Western Canadian cities—and for many snowbirds, proximity remains the number-one draw.

There are direct flights to Palm Springs International Airport from Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg and Toronto; on a good traffic day, the drive from Los Angeles (and more extensive flight connections at LAX) is only two hours.

But climate is just one of the reasons why snowbirds like Palm Springs so much. For avid golfers, there are more than 120 courses in the region. For those whose tastes run more hedonistic, the city has a growing list of award-winning restaurants and trendy retailers.

High modernism in Palm Springs.

56

Right Sizing

Fall 2019

WHERE According to realtor Brady Sandahl, who serves Palm Springs and its surrounding communities, the areas most in demand are within walking distance of restaurants, retailers and entertainment venues. He cites the Historic Tennis Club, Movie Colony or Old Las Palmas neighbourhoods in central Palm Springs as good examples, as well as South Palm Desert near El Paseo’s Shopping District. Those in-demand areas, says Sandahl, are experiencing “year-overyear, double-digit price appreciation.” A decade-long downtown revitalization project in Palm Springs recently added eight restaurants, 153 hotel rooms, 80,000 square feet of retail space and 30,000 square feet of office space.

WHAT Housing that’s hot in the desert market covers a wide range of styles and vintages. “We still see a high demand for classic mid-century real estate, as well as new construction that includes elements and features of mid-century architecture,” Sandahl says. He notes that buyers typically want open floor plans and seamless indoor/ outdoor living.

HOW MUCH According to May 2019 data released by the Palm Springs Regional Association of Realtors, La Quinta (40 kilometres southeast of Palm Springs) has seen the biggest year-over-year increase across the desert communities in detached home prices (up 13 per cent since 2018) while Palm Desert and Rancho Mirage have seen small decreases (of about 3 per cent and 4 per cent, respectively). The most expensive community remains Indian Wells (about 25 kilometres southeast of Palm Springs), with average home prices topping $1.1 million (USD), while in Palm Springs itself, average prices remained steady around $672,000 (USD).

BOTTOM LINE Palm Springs is a prime market for Canadian snowbird investors.

Sandahl notes that the trend of buyers renting out their properties continues to rise, despite a new short-term rental ordinance in the City of Palm Springs: “We recently sold an iconic mid-century home for $774,900 (USD) that was grossing $60,000 (USD) a year in short-term rental income.”

OF THE SUN PUERTO ESCONDIDO: HIDDEN GEM OF THE PACIFIC WHY Desert living isn’t for everyone, of course: some want less extreme heat in the summer, and a bit more warmth on winter nights. For these snowbirds, the former surfer hideaway of Puerto Escondido is primed to give Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas a run for their money.

Puerto Escondido’s Playa Zicatela is widely considered one of the top 10 surfing beaches in the world. A nearby freshwater lagoon is ideal for paddleboarding, while deep-sea fishing, snorkeling, horseback riding and trips to the nearby mountains (for tours of one of Oaxaca’s famed coffee plantations) are also popular. And the world-renowned Oaxacan cuisine is in abundance in small towns and villages.

WHERE Ten years ago, Calgary developer Vivo Resorts started marketing high-end condominium units and villas along the shores of Puerto Escondido, 1,300 kilometres down the coast from Puerto Vallarta in the state of Oaxaca. While Puerto Escondido is quickly growing in popularity (prices are

up 40 to 90 per cent over the past decade in one development), there are no direct flights yet, although Huatulco (100 kilometres down the Oaxacan coast) has direct seasonal charter flights from various Canadian cities.

WHAT Since 2009, Vivo has built 135 condo units and 14 villas in Puerto Escondido, with over 50 more sold and ready for construction. According to marketing manager Nic Grey, the resort and surrounding community of 50,000 people appeals to those “who are adventurous and have an active mindset.”

Many Vivo residents (most who range in age from their late 40s to mid 60s) end up staying for four to six months each year.

HOW MUCH The plan at Vivo is to complete 400 condos and some 100 villas; 10 years after it started building there, Vivo is still one of the few international developers or hoteliers in the area. “It’s kind of where Puerto Vallarta or Cabo would have been 20 years ago,” says Grey of Puerto Escondido. “It’s offering many of the same things, but at a lower price.” A two-bedroom,

two-bathroom, 1,400-square-foot oceanfront condo in Puerto Vallarta could be $599,000 (USD); in Cabo, a similar-sized condo with only peek-a-boo water views sells for $575,000 (USD). At Vivo, a comparable oceanfront condo is selling for $466,000 (USD).

BOTTOM LINE Infrastructure is starting to catch up with burgeoning tourist demand, Grey says—and he expects property values to really take off once that’s happened. “The government is working on a road between Oaxaca City and Puerto Escondido, a stretch of highway that winds through the mountains and takes maybe six to eight hours driving,” Grey says. “When they twin it, it will cut that down to two or three hours—and open up a whole new market.”

Ultimately, in picking the perfect sun investment, it comes down to personal preferences.

In the depths of Western Canadian January, the answer is that you really can’t go wrong with either.

Fall 2019

Right Sizing

57

DEVELOPER PROFILE

RURAL ROOTS Not just nature’s predators, but some 800 fortunate homeowners, call the community of Predator Ridge home today. Here’s how Wesbild Okanagan made this sensitively managed slice of Okanagan so special.

By Nikki Bayley

58

Right Sizing

Fall 2019

If you live at Predator Ridge, every way home is the scenic route.

Sandwiched neatly between Kalamalka and Okanagan Lakes, the resort turnoff from the highway lifts you high into unspoiled grasslands, where mule deer nibble grass and eagles wheel overhead.

It’s so sensitively landscaped that, on approach, it’s hard to believe anything man-made is up here—let alone some 800 homes, 36 holes of championship golf and an impressive raft of leisure amenities. Predator Ridge may be one of B.C.’s more upscale neighbourhoods, but it respects its rural roots and wild surroundings.

“I don’t think there’s another project like this in Canada that has such a comprehensive offering across such a large space,” grins

Brad Pelletier, senior vice-president of Wesbild Okanagan, which owns and operates Predator Ridge Resort. The onetime ranch land was first envisioned as a golf course as early as 1979, and the first elements of the current lifestyle community debuted in 1991. “But so much of our land will never be used—maybe even as much as two-thirds will never see development; we are so careful to maintain the rural charm and protect sensitive areas.”

Indeed, on a tour around the development, I spy everything from turtle ramps for the resident population of Western Painted Turtles (who love to bask in sunny ponds and crawl groomed fairways) to bird-and-bee-friendly lavender meadows. Landscapes are a

Photos courtesy Predator Ridge

Fall 2019

Right Sizing

59

Predator Ridge’s number-one attraction is 15 kilometres of trails. Photos courtesy of Predator Ridge

pleasing mix of immaculately manicured greenery and wildflowersprigged grassy verges. The housing—a blend of Craftsman, evolved Prairie Moderns and contemporary rancher/farmhouse hybrid styles—blends beautifully into the landscape.

Although widely known for its golf courses, there’s so much more to Predator Ridge. The community comprises 1,200 acres of land, shared between owned residences (many of them occupied full time) and a resort, with a rental pool of cottages and condos for guests wishing to dip a toe into the Okanagan lifestyle. “When people come and stay here, that’s when the magic happens,” says Pelletier.

“Everyone who stays in the resort interacts with some of the homeowners here, and they are always so passionate about living here; they know how much we do for the community.”

Golf isn’t even the main thing that attracts people to move here: only around 30 per cent of residents belong to the golf club, and the number-one attraction is in fact Predator Ridge’s 15 kilometres of mixed-use trails (with a connector linking to the 40-plus kilometres of trails in nearby Ellison Provincial Park). Pelletier says that what Predator Ridge does best to inspire passion amongst its residents is deliver community, “The biggest fear that most people have is when they move is how to re-establish social relationships.

What we do so well is bring people together … And it works!”

With more than 1,000 programmed events each year, the Predator Ridge community is certainly an engaged one. While touring the main amenities hub, I see a well-equipped fitness centre with a lap pool, shop and a patio that just begs for post-workout drinks. On the noticeboard, there are schedules for hikes, yoga and wine socials. Up at the newly built tennis and pickleball courts (covered under all-weather bubbles for year-round use), there’s also a bike shop with pros in attendance, to help residents crank their mountain biking skills to the next level. Bringing zen balance to high-energy 60

Right Sizing

Fall 2019

PREDATOR RIDGE 101 •

1,200 acres.

•

73% of homeowners declare Predator Ridge as their principal residence.

•

350 employees.

•

45 minutes from Silver Star Ski Resort.

•

25 minutes from Kelowna International Airport.

•

Entry-level homes begin at $679,000 for a threebedroom duplex; single-family homes from $850,000.

•

On-site amenities include fitness centre, lap pool, yoga platform, all-weather pickleball and tennis courts, mixed-use trails, two golf courses and homeowner use of the nearby award-winning Sparkling Hill KurSpa.

pursuits, new yoga platforms under shade sails offer stunning views over the lakes and mountains, as scents of spruce and wafts of lavender mingle from the nearby hillside.

With zoning for 1,200 more housing units, Predator Ridge may grow into its acreage over the next years. According to Pelletier, that number may actually be less: “The future at Predator Ridge is about continuing to invest in the lifestyle choices of our homeowners, who are seeking an enriched year-round lifestyle—which is exactly what they enjoy here.”

“Our family’s Pan-Abode has stood the test of time, is still able to impress and is our most prized possession. We use it many weekends in the coldest of winters and we still get compliments on how cozy and comfortable our home is.” - J. PENDLETON

The Original www.panabode.com 1.800.665.0660

Building Original Memories Since 1948

chilliwack: Boom Town At the heart of this agricultural community is a nature-friendly lifestyle—and a drive to create a new-generation mixed-use, walkable downtown in the coming years.

By Steve Threndyle

The fast-growing community of Chilliwack.

To most Vancouverites, Chilliwack is a Canadian classic-rock band, or perhaps a type of corn sold in farmer’s markets. And then there’s that particular odour that you might have noticed when stopping for gas and a burger before hitting the Coquihalla (from liquid fertilizer sprayed onto thousands of acres of nearby farmland). After all, 40 per cent of Chilliwack’s boundaries are lined with farms in the Agricultural Land Reserve, and 30 per cent of the local economy is based on agriculture.

Get past that first whiff, and you’ll discover what Chilliwack’s 105,000 residents already know: it’s hard to beat when it comes to affordability, access to amenities and economic potential. “We don’t see ourselves as a bedroom community,” says Brian Coombes, president of Chilliwack Economic Partners Corporation (CEPCO).

“But it’s nice to know that you can take in… a Canucks game or a concert—and be back the same night.”

62

Right Sizing

Fall 2019

NEW TRAIN, OLD TRACK Former Langley mayor Rick Green, well-known UBC professor Patrick Condon and former B.C. premier Bill Van Der Zalm are joining forces to revive a commuter train service between Vancouver and Chilliwack that last operated in 1958. The B.C. government still owns the track right-of-way, and construction costs would be a fraction of Skytrain costs. The Interurban went out of business due to the rising popularity of car-serviced suburbs, but today’s traffic demands innovative solutions. A European-style high-speed rail line could help densify housing in serviced areas and reduce carbon emissions from individual vehicles.

Top-notch sturgeon and salmon fishing on the Fraser River, whitewater kayaking the spring snowmelt from surrounding Cascade Mountains and Coast Range peaks and hiking through wildflowers on Mount Cheam and the Lucky Four group are natural attractions.

Wakeboarders and waterskiers know that Cultus Lake might be the best boating lake west of the Okanagan, and there are no less than four championship golf courses near.

The past decade has seen construction of a 600-seat theatre and a 5,000-seat arena/recreation complex. Molson Breweries is putting the finishing touches on the largest brewery in B.C. Ritchie Bros. Auctions moved here to take advantage of lower land costs and Chilliwack’s business-friendly environment (including the lowest property taxes in B.C. for both business-use buildings and residential homes).

Chilliwack house prices are still reasonable ($613,000 is the 2019 average assessed value)—executive homes sell for under $1-million, with roomy town homes and condos in the $400,000 range. Inexpensive land prices are also creating a haven for developments like Englewood, one of the largest seniors’ housing projects in Western Canada.

The Van Maren Group of Companies, which also develops property in the south Okanagan, says lower prices are definitely a big draw.

Eric Van Maren says, “If you live in a town house in Surrey, you can step up to a single-family home or if you have a condo in Langley, you can live in a town home out here.” Chilliwack’s low vacancy rate (well under five per cent) makes properties attractive to investors needing a reliable source of rental cash flow.

As you’d expect in an agricultural community, Chilliwack is spread out, and its historic business district somewhat lost importance as power-centre style malls were built close to freeway exits. But that’s changing: in 2017, the City of Chilliwack and Chilliwack Economic Partners Corporation chose Algra Brothers to develop four acres of downtown bordered by Princess Street, Young Road and Yale Road.

The plan includes the restoration of heritage properties which date from as early as 1913, when the town was called Five Corners (a reference to its proximity to major trade routes along the Dewdney Trail and Fraser River).

Chilliwack is hard to beat when it comes to affordability, access to amenities and economic potential.

Algra’s marketing director, John Kinneman, says, “People who live in Chilliwack want its downtown to thrive. The first priority is updating the heritage buildings in accordance with local building codes, a process that will take time and money to do properly”—a process to which Algra is committed. “People want something built on a human level,” says Kinneman, referring to the anticipated buildings of perhaps five or six storeys, “that combines retail, offices and residential in the same building.” The resulting walkable, mixed-use downtown will include independently owned stores offering a personal, smalltown shopping experience. Now that’s the sweet smell of success.

For current Chilliwack developments, see page 64.

A vision for Chilliwack’s future downtown. Rendering courtesy of Algra Brothers.

Fall 2019

Right Sizing

63

Picture chic town home living at Base 10 in Chilliwack. Rendering courtesy of Base 10

BASE 10

DOWNTOWN CHILLIWACK

WHAT Van Maren Homes has beautifully master-planned this

WHAT Algra Bros. are leveraging the expertise they developed in

family-friendly town home community. It’s close to malls with an-

revitalizing downtown Abbotsford to turn around the fortunes of

chor tenants like Save-On Foods, Tim Hortons, and Earls. Parents:

historic Chilliwack. This multi-year, multi-phase project will mix

it’s a short stroll to Vedder Elementary and G.W. Graham Second-

residential, street-level retail and professional services, while re-

ary schools. WHERE The Promontory. WHEN Now selling phase

storing buildings that date back to the early 20th century. WHERE

one. base10living.com

Downtown Chilliwack. WHEN Coming soon. chilliwackisback.com

CASCADES

ELLIOT

WHAT Unlimited access to nature combines with family-friendly

WHAT Affordable two-bedroom condominiums feature oversize

amenities and spacious freehold duplex homes. Gourmet kitchens

patios, granite counters, stainless steel appliances and laminate

have stainless-steel appliances; community trails and Gloria Peak

flooring. WHERE Airport Road area, adjacent to a greenbelt; man-

are literally right out the door. WHERE Eastern Hillsides. WHEN

icured landscaping and contemporary exteriors complement the

Now selling phase one. westbow.ca/cascade

natural setting. WHEN Selling now. liveelliot.ca

CREEKSIDE MILLS

FOREST HOMES

WHAT Brought to you by Chilliwack’s Van Geel family, these

WHAT Perfect for entertainers, these spacious homes feature

single-family detached homes are suitable for year-round or

floor to ceiling windows that bathe the open-plan interiors in nat-

summer lakeside living. Meet your neighbours at The Barn, an

ural light. Sliding glass doors lead to a party-ready outdoor deck,

impressive 4,600-square-foot clubhouse that includes a large lap

and the rooftop deck can accommodate a hot tub. An optional

pool, separate children’s pool, a hot tub, dry sauna and changing

top-floor bonus room is available. WHERE The Promontory,

rooms. WHERE Cultus Lake, at Lindell Beach. WHEN Now selling.

in Sardis. WHEN Pre-sales coming soon.

creeksidemills.com

westbow.ca/forest-homes-chilliwack

64

Right Sizing

Fall 2019

HARRISON HIGHLANDS

REFLECTIONS AT CEDAR SKY

WHAT This five-phase, 90-acre development by the Odessa Group

WHAT Developed and constructed by Vedder Ridge Homes and

offers freehold lots for single-family homes in several sizes and

Woodbridge Homes, this family-oriented community has contem-

options, many with great views of the mountains and Harrison and

porary three storey, three-bedroom homes from 1,850 to 2,145

Fraser Rivers. A community park and pond are also in the plans.

square feet. WHERE Chilliwack Mountain, minutes from downtown,

WHERE Kent, just northeast of Chilliwack. WHEN Phase two sell-

yet still close to Chilliwack’s bounty of outdoor recreation. WHEN

ing now. harrisonhighlands.com

Selling now. reflectionsatcedarsky.ca

HILLCREST LANE

SKYNEST

WHAT Within an architecturally controlled development, these

WHAT Chilliwack’s most luxury-oriented 45-plus community. Canadian

spacious two- and three-bedroom town homes range in size from

Retirement Developments is targeting affluent retirees looking for

1,619 to 2,139 square feet, with plenty of interior and exterior op-

more contemporary, upscale living in modern, open-plan spaces.

tions to choose from. WHERE The Promontory. WHEN Selling now.

WHERE Sardis, close to shopping and services. WHEN Currently

westbow.ca

in pre-sale; occupancy projected for 2021. skynest.ca

MALLOWAY VILLAGE

WEBSTER CROSSING

WHAT This 45-plus gated community has West Coast inspired

WHAT Perfect for families of any size and budget, this premium

ranch-style homes that each feature a great room that connects

development has single-family homes and strata-free town homes;

to open designer kitchens, spa-like master bedrooms and covered

Unsworth Elementary School is close by. WHERE Sardis, in a

outdoor living areas. WHERE Close to Sardis’s many retail outlets,

neighbourhood bordered by the peaceful Vedder River, trails and

professional services, restaurants, walking trails and entertain-

verdant farmland. WHEN Now selling phase two. westbow.ca/

ment. WHEN Selling now. mallowayvillage.ca

webster-crossing

For links to developments, visit rightsizingmedia.com/Developers All offerings are subject to change without notice; please contact developers directly for the latest details.

A spacious freehold duplex home at Cascades. Photo courtesy of Cascade

Fall 2019

Right Sizing

65

HIDDEN JEWEL

RIGHT ON TRACK At the northern end of the Sea to Sky Corridor, today the former rail town of Pemberton boasts an unparalleled mountain lifestyle.

By Claire Piech

Once a sleepy farm town accessed only by train, Pemberton has transformed into a vibrant valley region known for its tightknit community, organic vegetables and world-class adventures. Nestled within the Coast Mountains (including the spectacular 8,000-foot Mt. Currie), the town is home to just under 3,000—people passionate about the area where they live.

ing towns to the south, while still allowing access to the Sea to Sky lifestyle. Those looking to buy in Pemberton still have a wide-selection of properties, from apartments to huge acreages, with the average detached single-family home trending at

$828,500 for 2019 (up 14 per cent).

You may no longer need a train to get there, but Pemberton might still be the Sea to Sky Corridor’s best kept secret, and there’s still time to jump on board.

The longest residents of the area, of course, are members of the Lil’wat Nation, who have lived in the valley since time immemorial. The first European settlers arrived during the mid-1800s gold rush, but until the 1960s the only way to get to Pemberton was by train. When Highway 99 finally punched through, connecting the valley to Vancouver, the town blossomed and farming, forestry and tourism became mainstays of the economy.

“Pemberton has a unique mix of raw nature and good community,” explains Delaney Zayac, who moved to the area in 2008 and owns the certified organic farm Ice Cap Organics. “It is close enough to Whistler and Vancouver to not feel isolated.”

The population includes a sizeable number of young families, and the vibe in Pemby (as it’s affectionately called by locals) is lowkey and friendly. “We have two school-aged kids, and we’ve found Pemberton to be a wonderful place to raise them,” says Zayac.

“There are so many healthy outdoor activities for them, as well as things like music and arts and crafts”—not to mention the safe, secure feeling of living in a small, tight community. World-renowned hiking, mountain biking and backcountry skiing—along with gardening, paragliding and horseback riding—are just some of the activities that keep residents outdoors year-round.

Just as importantly, the cost of real estate is still affordable, compared to neighbourNorth Arm Farm, located at the base of iconic Mt. Currie, is an organic farm enjoyable for the whole family. Photo by Amélie Légaré

66

Right Sizing

Fall 2019

Live. Invest. Work. Grow.

...in all four seasons. www.EcDevOsoyoos.com

Live Better