The BC Northern Real Estate Board (BCNREB) reported 753 sales with a value of $217,389,724 through the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in the first quarter of 2020. This compares with 876 sales worth $257,043,507 to the end of March 2019. As of March 31st, there were 3,096 properties of all types available for purchase through the MLS® compared to 3130 at this time last year.
The first quarter of 2020 saw a persistent pullback in housing demand, as the BC forestry, mining and oil sectors continued to struggle. This led to MLS® unit sales in the region covered by the BC Northern Real Estate Board to fall by 13 per cent compared to the same time last year. Despite the pullback in demand, prices increased by one per cent due to a notable decline in active listings. At the end of the first quarter, the MLS® average price was $298,811 in the region. MLS® sales are expected to continue to decline in the second quarter of 2020 due to the economic standstill brought on by COVID-19, which will likely also lead to significant investment projects such as LNG and BC Hydro to scale back.
“The COVID-19 pandemic continues to cause significant challenges to everyone in our society,” says BC Northern Real Estate Board’s new President, Shawna Kinsley. “Our members are committed to doing their part to ensure communities stay safe. Real estate is an essential service. REALTORS® are following all orders and guidance from the Public Health Authority. The Real Estate Board has recommended that no Open Houses be held during this time. REALTORS® are also modifying their practices around face-to-face meetings and showings. Sellers may now remain on the MLS® system without the need for showings and all consumers can expect more phone or virtual meetings as well as limits on showings and new showing guidelines. We ask consumers to be patient with real estate practice changes at this time. REALTORS® remain committed to serving their clients and safeguarding their communities.”
By Region:
(2019 values appear in brackets)
Cariboo Region
100 Mile House and area: A total of 66 (68) properties of all types worth $14.8 million ($16.6 million) have been sold by REALTORS® in the area since the beginning of the year. In the first three months of 2020, 17 single-family homes, 24 parcels of vacant land and nine homes on acreage changed hands. At the end of the quarter there were 373 (375) properties available for purchase through the MLS®.
Williams Lake: 58 (91) properties have sold so far this year through MLS® in the Williams Lake area. The value of these properties was $ 15.4 million ($21.4). In addition to the 29 single-family homes sold, nine homes on acreage, six manufactured homes in parks, and one manufactured home on land have changed hands in the first quarter. As of March 31st, there were 190 (207) properties listed on the MLS® in the Williams Lake area.
Quesnel: In the Quesnel area REALTORS® reported 47 (55) sales worth $8.5 million ($11.7 million) in the first three months of 2020. In addition to the 16 single-family homes that sold, nine parcels of vacant land and seven homes on acreage have sold this year. There were 161 (147) properties of all types available for purchase through MLS® in the Quesnel area as of March 31st.
Northwest Region
Prince Rupert: 47 (34) properties worth $15.4 million ($8.8 million) have sold through the MLS® so far this year. Of those 47 properties sold, 29 were single-family residential properties and six were parcels of vacant land. As of March 31st, there were 104 (169) properties of all types available for purchase through the MLS® in the Prince Rupert area.
Terrace: REALTORS® in the Terrace area sold 58 (53) properties in the first quarter of 2020. The value of these properties was $18.9 million ($16.9 million). 29 single-family homes, five manufactured homes in parks, and two manufactured homes on land have changed hands since January 1st. As of March 31st, there were 222 (192) properties of all types available for sale in the Terrace area.
Kitimat: In the first quarter of 2020, 18 (19) properties worth $6.2 million ($6.7 million) have been reported sold. Of those 18 properties, 11 were single-family homes, three were half-duplexes and two were townhouses. At the end of March there were 113 (124) properties of all types available for sale through MLS® in the Kitimat area.
Bulkley Nechako Region
Smithers: REALTORS® in the Smithers area reported 43 (44) sales with a value of $12 million ($12.6 million) to March 31st, 2020. In addition to the 23 single-family homes that sold, four parcels of vacant land, six homes on acreage, and five manufactured homes in parks changed hands this year. At the end of the first quarter there were 122 (120) properties of all types available for purchase through the MLS® in the Smithers area.
Burns Lake: Four (16) properties worth $456 thousand ($2.3 million) have changed hands since January 1st. At the end of March there were 80 (87) properties of all types available for sale through the MLS® in the Burns Lake area.
Vanderhoof: REALTORS® in the Vanderhoof area reported 19 (30) sales worth $4.4 million ($12.2 million) in the first quarter of 2020. At the end of March there were 89 (80) properties available for purchase through the MLS® in the Vanderhoof area.
Fort St. James: In the first quarter of 2020 there were 11 (9) sales worth $2.1 million ($1.9 million) in the Fort St. James area. As of March 31st, there were 54 (61) properties available on the MLS® in the area.
Northern Region
Fort St. John: In the Fort St. John area, 90 (111) properties worth $28.3 million ($35.5 million) changed hands in the first quarter of 2020. In addition to the 41 single-family homes sold, 11 half-duplexes, 9 homes on acreage, 7 manufactured homes in parks and 3 manufactured homes on land have sold since January 1st. At the end of March there were 644 (597) properties of all types available for purchase through the MLS® in the Fort St. John region.
Fort Nelson: 11 (11) properties worth $1.6 million ($919 thousand) were reported sold through the MLS® since the beginning of the year. At the end of March there were 124 (95) properties available for purchase through the MLS® in the Fort Nelson area.
Fraser Fort George Region
Mackenzie: Since January 1st 10 (12) properties worth $1.5 million ($1.4 million) have changed hands. As of March 31st, there were 56 (63) properties available for purchase through the MLS® in the Mackenzie area.
City of Prince George: 221 (257) properties of all types, worth $73.3 million ($90 million), have changed hands in the first three months of 2020 in the City of Prince George. In the western part of the City, the median price of the 34 single-family homes that have sold on MLS® was $346,000 ($327,500). In the area east of the by-pass, the 29 single-family homes that sold had a median value of $272,500 ($309,000). In the northern part of the city, commonly referred to as “the Hart”, 29 single-family homes sold with a median price of $401,250 ($370,000). In the southwestern section of the city, 37 homes have sold since January with a median price of $453,500 ($429,500). At the end of March there were 509(534) properties of all types available on the MLS® within the city limits.
The REALTOR® members of the BC Northern Real Estate Board serve the real estate needs of the communities from Fort Nelson in the north to 100 Mile House in the south, and from the Alberta border to Haida Gwaii.
MONTREAL – Two Quebec real estate brokers are facing fines and years-long suspensions for submitting bogus offers on homes to drive up prices during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Christine Girouard has been suspended for 14 years and her business partner, Jonathan Dauphinais-Fortin, has been suspended for nine years after Quebec’s authority of real estate brokerage found they used fake bids to get buyers to raise their offers.
Girouard is a well-known broker who previously starred on a Quebec reality show that follows top real estate agents in the province.
She is facing a fine of $50,000, while Dauphinais-Fortin has been fined $10,000.
The two brokers were suspended in May 2023 after La Presse published an article about their practices.
One buyer ended up paying $40,000 more than his initial offer in 2022 after Girouard and Dauphinais-Fortin concocted a second bid on the house he wanted to buy.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 11, 2024.
MONTREAL – The Quebec Professional Association of Real Estate Brokers says Montreal-area home sales rose 9.3 per cent in August compared with the same month last year, with levels slightly higher than the historical average for this time of year.
The association says home sales in the region totalled 2,991 for the month, up from 2,737 in August 2023.
The median price for all housing types was up year-over-year, led by a six per cent increase for the price of a plex at $763,000 last month.
The median price for a single-family home rose 5.2 per cent to $590,000 and the median price for a condominium rose 4.4 per cent to $407,100.
QPAREB market analysis director Charles Brant says the strength of the Montreal resale market contrasts with declines in many other Canadian cities struggling with higher levels of household debt, lower savings and diminishing purchasing power.
Active listings for August jumped 18 per cent compared with a year earlier to 17,200, while new listings rose 1.7 per cent to 4,840.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 6, 2024.
In the quest to find cities where renters can enjoy the best of all worlds, a recent study analyzed 24 metrics across three key categories—Housing & Economy, Quality of Life, and Community. The study ranked the 100 largest cities in Canada to determine which ones offer the most to their renters.
Here are the top 10 cities that emerged as the best for renters in 2024:
St. John’s, NL
St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, stand out as the top city for renters in Canada for 2024. Known for its vibrant cultural scene, stunning natural beauty, and welcoming community, St. John’s offers an exceptional quality of life. The city boasts affordable housing, a robust economy, and low unemployment rates, making it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced and enriching living experience. Its rich history, picturesque harbour, and dynamic arts scene further enhance its appeal, ensuring that renters can enjoy both comfort and excitement in this charming coastal city.
Sherbrooke, QC
Sherbrooke, Quebec, emerges as a leading city for renters in Canada for 2024, offering a blend of affordability and quality of life. Nestled in the heart of the Eastern Townships, Sherbrooke is known for its picturesque landscapes, vibrant cultural scene, and strong community spirit. The city provides affordable rental options, low living costs, and a thriving local economy, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both comfort and economic stability. With its rich history, numerous parks, and dynamic arts and education sectors, Sherbrooke presents an inviting environment for renters looking for a well-rounded lifestyle.
Québec City, QC
Québec City, the capital of Quebec, stands out as a premier destination for renters in Canada for 2024. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural heritage, this city offers an exceptional quality of life. Renters benefit from affordable housing, excellent public services, and a robust economy. The city’s charming streets, historic sites, and diverse culinary scene provide a unique living experience. With top-notch education institutions, numerous parks, and a strong sense of community, Québec City is an ideal choice for those seeking a dynamic and fulfilling lifestyle.
Trois-Rivières, QC
Trois-Rivières, nestled between Montreal and Quebec City, emerges as a top choice for renters in Canada. This historic city, known for its picturesque riverside views and rich cultural scene, offers an appealing blend of affordability and quality of life. Renters in Trois-Rivières enjoy reasonable housing costs, a low unemployment rate, and a vibrant community atmosphere. The city’s well-preserved historic sites, bustling arts community, and excellent educational institutions make it an attractive destination for those seeking a balanced and enriching lifestyle.
Saguenay, QC
Saguenay, located in the stunning Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region of Quebec, is a prime destination for renters seeking affordable living amidst breathtaking natural beauty. Known for its picturesque fjords and vibrant cultural scene, Saguenay offers residents a high quality of life with lower housing costs compared to major urban centers. The city boasts a strong sense of community, excellent recreational opportunities, and a growing economy. For those looking to combine affordability with a rich cultural and natural environment, Saguenay stands out as an ideal choice.
Granby, QC
Granby, nestled in the heart of Quebec’s Eastern Townships, offers renters a delightful blend of small-town charm and ample opportunities. Known for its beautiful parks, vibrant cultural scene, and family-friendly environment, Granby provides an exceptional quality of life. The city’s affordable housing market and strong sense of community make it an attractive option for those seeking a peaceful yet dynamic place to live. With its renowned zoo, bustling downtown, and numerous outdoor activities, Granby is a hidden gem that caters to a diverse range of lifestyles.
Fredericton, NB
Fredericton, the capital city of New Brunswick, offers renters a harmonious blend of historical charm and modern amenities. Known for its vibrant arts scene, beautiful riverfront, and welcoming community, Fredericton provides an excellent quality of life. The city boasts affordable housing options, scenic parks, and a strong educational presence with institutions like the University of New Brunswick. Its rich cultural heritage, coupled with a thriving local economy, makes Fredericton an attractive destination for those seeking a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.
Saint John, NB
Saint John, New Brunswick’s largest city, is a coastal gem known for its stunning waterfront and rich heritage. Nestled on the Bay of Fundy, it offers renters an affordable cost of living with a unique blend of historic architecture and modern conveniences. The city’s vibrant uptown area is bustling with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, while its scenic parks and outdoor spaces provide ample opportunities for recreation. Saint John’s strong sense of community and economic growth make it an inviting place for those looking to enjoy both urban and natural beauty.
Saint-Hyacinthe, QC
Saint-Hyacinthe, located in the Montérégie region of Quebec, is a vibrant city known for its strong agricultural roots and innovative spirit. Often referred to as the “Agricultural Technopolis,” it is home to numerous research centers and educational institutions. Renters in Saint-Hyacinthe benefit from a high quality of life with access to excellent local amenities, including parks, cultural events, and a thriving local food scene. The city’s affordable housing and close-knit community atmosphere make it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced and enriching lifestyle.
Lévis, QC
Lévis, located on the southern shore of the St. Lawrence River across from Quebec City, offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern conveniences. Known for its picturesque views and well-preserved heritage sites, Lévis is a city where history meets contemporary living. Residents enjoy a high quality of life with excellent public services, green spaces, and cultural activities. The city’s affordable housing options and strong sense of community make it a desirable place for renters looking for both tranquility and easy access to urban amenities.
This category looked at factors such as average rent, housing costs, rental availability, and unemployment rates. Québec stood out with 10 cities ranking at the top, demonstrating strong economic stability and affordable housing options, which are critical for renters looking for cost-effective living conditions.
Québec again led the pack in this category, with five cities in the top 10. Ontario followed closely with three cities. British Columbia excelled in walkability, with four cities achieving the highest walk scores, while Caledon topped the list for its extensive green spaces. These factors contribute significantly to the overall quality of life, making these cities attractive for renters.
Victoria, BC, emerged as the leader in this category due to its rich array of restaurants, museums, and educational institutions, offering a vibrant community life. St. John’s, NL, and Vancouver, BC, also ranked highly. Québec City, QC, and Lévis, QC, scored the highest in life satisfaction, reflecting a strong sense of community and well-being. Additionally, Saskatoon, SK, and Oshawa, ON, were noted for having residents with lower stress levels.
For a comprehensive view of the rankings and detailed interactive visuals, you can visit the full study by Point2Homes.
While no city can provide a perfect living experience for every renter, the cities highlighted in this study come remarkably close by excelling in key areas such as housing affordability, quality of life, and community engagement. These findings offer valuable insights for renters seeking the best places to live in Canada in 2024.
