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For the people who call Nelson B.C. home or want to make the area their home, life is safe, unspoiled and serene.
The heritage capital of British Columbia is becoming of this gem nestled on the shores of magnificent Kootenay Lake, framed by steep mountain slopes where the four seasons unfold in an ever-changing panorama of beauty; which makes this diverse community and the abundance of mountain culture the place to be if you have a passion for the outdoors and a love to ski, snowboard, mountain bike, hike, camp, fish or to just simply be — close to nature.
It’s worth noting that if outdoor recreation isn’t your jam, Nelson has also made a name for itself as one of the preeminent arts and culture hubs of British Columbia, offering up big-city quality with small town flavour. The Queen City is a gateway to iconoclastic and inventive creatives, designers and internationally recognized festivals.
And while Nelson may punch well above its weight when it comes to the arts, it is the unique pioneering spirit, which constantly pushes boundaries in inventive and compelling ways that shape this very eclectic community and visitor experience.
Having all the urban amenities and style that you will find in a big city centre, such as great restaurants and architecture, world-class entertainment, amazing seasonal recreational lifestyle offerings, and its unique culture makes the community especially attractive for young and old alike.
Turn-of-the-century ambiance lingers in every corner from the 350 preserved heritage buildings to the fully restored streetcar, and Coldwell Banker Rosling Real Estate is the brokerage house for anyone thinking of buying or selling real estate in Nelson, Trail, Nakusp, Kaslo, Slocan Valley, or Kootenay, Slocan and Arrow Lakes.
Business and lifestyle go hand in hand for the realtors here and working with every client together is Coldwell’s Banker’s main stay and purpose. Coldwell Banker Rosling Real Estate is 100% locally owned and operated and the result is an experienced team that provides expert guidance, friendly professionalism and a dramatically improved service that is not only smooth and efficient but maximizes value.
As a leading real estate brokerage in the area, their real estate specialists provide thoughtful consultations and takes pride in providing quality customer service.
The prestige of the Coldwell Banker® name, combined with state-of-the-art technology, bespoke marketing strategies and one of real estate’s most robust global networks encompassing 92,000 independent sales associates in approximately 3,000 offices in 47 countries and territories, culminates in extraordinary representation that crosses oceans, continents and language barriers.
Their property specialists, many of whom rank among the top luxury real estate agents in the region, have a track record of representing some of the most significant properties of all time in the area.
In a competitive Real Estate market and landscape like Nelson B.C., innovation is key to standing out, and that’s why Coldwell Banker Rosling Real Estate recently adopted to use Matterport camera systems giving them the ability to showcase their offerings on a more virtual platform.
Not only has their Matterport been an incredible tool for them, they have had a number of deals put together based on buyers only viewing the house via a 3D tour
“We have yet to have someone finally see their home and be surprised or disappointed. It is so nice for a buyer who is not physically here to be able to walk through a house before deciding to make the trip or not.” Shares owner/realtor Kevin Arcuri.
“With COVID this year it was an even more valuable tool. We were able to have tours of tenanted properties that could not even be viewed until they were under offer so potential buyers could see rental properties. Even with owner occupied houses we asked that any interested people please be sure to go through the 3D tour before moving forward. This helped weed out unnecessary showings.”
The Matterport cameras can capture and scan any space, from a small room in a home or an entire office building, with the Matterport Capture app. The accurate 3D results help to make the most of the space’s potential, you automatically get stunning image quality and a suite of assets to work with.
The technology process utilizes a Cortex AI platform with a deep learning neural network that creates a 3D digital twin and automates many of the things you would normally have to do manually. It can identify objects within rooms, stitch all of the scans together, and reconstructs the space into an experience anyone can view. The Cortex platform can even convert 2D imagery and panoramas into full 3D visualizations.
Though there is more to Matterport than just 3D tours.
Matterport not only enhances your home or property listing, it makes doing so much easier with a solution that creates assets for you automatically. You are able to generate 3D virtual tours, 4K print-quality photos, schematic floor plans, and guided video tours that are easily shared on social media sites, such as Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. You can also publish to Google Street View, VRBO, and Realtor.ca, embed the 3D space on to any website, and create accurate measurements within the space to help manage virtual staging.
“When it comes to Real Estate here in the Kootenay’s, we want to make sure we are elevating our offerings. It’s a reflection of the lifestyle of living here and calling the region home. Being able to live, work, play and own property in the Nelson Kootenay Lake area is something not to be taken for granted, and the specialness of the Kootenay’s is real, and it is to be shared with anyone interested in pursuing it.
In the current pandemic that has dramatically affected the way the way we do business, this is a very useful tool to have when selling or buying property, and we look forward to sharing it with you.”
Matterport not only enhances your home or property listing, it makes doing so much easier with a solution that creates assets for you automatically.
You are able to generate 3D virtual tours, 4K print-quality photos, schematic floor plans, and guided video tours that are easily shared on social media sites, such as Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
You can also publish to Google Street View, VRBO, and Realtor.ca, embed the 3D space on to any website, and create accurate measurements within the space to help manage virtual staging.
Experience these signature 3D tours using the Matterport camera system, brought to you by Coldwell Banker Rosling Real Estate in beautiful Nelson, B.C.
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.
