Latest Sims Real Estate Group Listing Videos & Blog Posts on Vancouver Island, BC.

Feb. 15, 2017

6007 Butcher Road | $479,000 | Beautiful 5 Bedroom 3 Bathroom Family Home In Hammond Bay

Spacious 2,203sqft family home in the beautiful Hammond Bay area. This bright 5 bedroom 3 bathroom home has both mountain and ocean views. Recent updates include a newer heat pump, gas fireplace, and a 10 year old roof. The kitchen boasts in tons of natural lighting and is also where you will find access to the large deck leading to the backyard that has been extended to add even more space. Downstairs has great suite potential, as you will find a family room, laundry room, full 4 piece bathroom as well as 2 bedrooms and an den/office. The backyard has a covered patio area and is also fully fenced, perfect for hosting family barbecues and entertaining friends and family. Located only minutes away from all local amenities, restaurants, schools, and beaches. All measurements are approximate and should be verified if important. MLS# 419654 

Feb. 14, 2017

2850 Orca Road | $799,000 | Elegant 3 Bedroom 3 Bathroom Home on 2.75 Acres In Nanoose Bay

Resting on 2.75 acres in Nanoose Bay, this 2,287 sqft 3 bedroom 3 bathroom rancher has unique touches from the moment you open the door. From the Timber Frame entry to the multiple skylights and heated hardwood flooring, this spacious open concept home has everything you will ever need. The kitchen has brand new stainless steel appliances, 3 sinks, granite countertops, and endless cupboards, perfect for the chef of the family. The master bedroom is equipped with not only a large walk in closet, but a must see 5 piece ensuite, with double sinks as well as an individual shower and tub. To go along with your 2.5 acres, there is also a covered patio, and plenty of room for RV and boat parking. This home shows beautifully and is a must see for all. All measurements are approximate and should be verified if important. MLS# 419599.  

Feb. 3, 2017

3 Bedroom 3 Bathroom Home with Outstanding Views of Long Lake & Mt. Benson

This immaculate main level entry 3 bed 3 bath town home sits in a private, treed area with spectacular views of Long Lake and Mount Benson. The main floor of this home has a great open concept, and a large balcony, perfect for not only enjoying your incredible view, but for entertaining friends and family as well. Recent updates have been made to the kitchen, including new stainless steel appliances, backsplash, and all new painting throughout the home. Downstairs is where you will find the master bedroom, which includes a 3 piece ensuite and another private balcony, accessible by a large sliding glass door. This home also has a workshop, shed, and storage area, perfect for storing tools, decorations, and supplies. There is a large covered area at the entrance of the home, with plenty of room for parking. Located only minutes away from plenty of local amenities including shopping malls, restaurants, and both Elementary and Secondary Schools. All measurements are approximate and should be verified if important. MLS #419275. Call Jason Simard to view 778-269-1288 or email Jason@simsrealestate.ca 

Feb. 3, 2017

Buying Your Next Home in Ladysmith on Vancouver Island

What is there not to love about Ladysmith, a community on Vancouver Island that is getting a lot of attention from home buyers today? The community sits right on the edge of the water, providing for some outstanding access to the region’s best recreational amenities. This community was once a coal mining town, but today it has a strong tourism and agricultural heritage that’s hard to overlook. For those who are looking for a home in an area that has much to offer, Ladysmith real estate is the route to take.

Single Family Home in Ladysmith, BC

Single Family Home in Ladysmith, BC | Image Provided by VIREB

Exploring the Community

Ladysmith has a strong downtown community that offers a variety of shops and dining locations. This is one of the biggest tourism draws. There are light shows, plenty of live entertainment, and numerous locally owned retailers worthy of a visit. In some cases, the downtown area can be home to well over 40,000 people spending time enjoying the culture and community.

Of course, Ladysmith’s waterfront access really is a reason to buy a home here in and of itself. It’s right on Transfer Beach, which offers plenty of options for everyone in the family. There’s a playground and a splash pad here, too. Paddle boats, a true beach to visit, and plenty of community events add to the region's appeal.

Ladysmith is only about a 23 km drive from Nanaimo, which means it is quite close to many of the amenities and features people are looking for when buying a home in this region including good commercial offerings, plenty of natural beauty, and exceptional home values. There is no doubt you’ll find a home to treasure here.

Whether buying your first home or perhaps even a weekend getaway, Ladysmith, Vancouver Island should never be ignored. An area with much to offer today’s home buyer, this neighourhood is one you will want to take a look at very carefully before making your next investment in a home on Vancouver Island. Contact Jason Simard today to learn which properties in Ladysmith match your real estate goals.

Jan. 27, 2017

Buying Real Estate in Nanaimo, British Columbia

Are you currently looking for, or preparing to purchase a home in British Columbia? Have you considered real estate in Nanaimo, BC? Vancouver Island's second largest city, Nanaimo has a great deal of potential in terms of property that can serve as a family home, a vacation home, a rental property, or an investment property. Learn more about the opportunities that await home shoppers in Nanaimo.

Nanaimo Home's Backyard Ocean View

Nanaimo Home's Strait of Georgia View | Image Provided by VIREB

What Nanaimo Has For Buyers

While Nanaimo is categorized as a "small city", it has everything in terms of recreation, work opportunities, and natural beauty that anyone could want. Heralded in a Condé Nast publication as "the perfect blend of work and play", the city offers outdoor activities ranging from golf to skiing. Shopping opportunities are abundant, as Nanaimo features one of the island's largest malls. The employment outlook is positive as well, with hundreds of job openings ranging from sales and technology to the construction and health care industry. All of this plus a thriving nightlife, a vibrant culture and arts scene, and ample opportunities for outdoor activity make Nanaimo a city you certainly need to consider. This city has forty-seven highly regarded schools ranging from elementary to college, as well as several trade schools. If you need more convincing, have we mentioned that Vancouver Island's climate is the most mild in all of Canada? But, before you pack your bags, the question again arises. What's Nanaimo's real estate market like?

As one of Vancouver Island's most densely settled areas, Nanaimo has a nice mix of apartments, condominiums, and single family homes. Those looking for homes for sale will learn that such residences have among the highest property values and resale rates in the country, making Nanaimo homes not just desirable places to live, but great investments as well. Take a closer look at some of Nanaimo's most popular neighbourhoods. 

Extension

Extension is a reclaimed mining site that today serves as a housing community. Only a few miles from downtown Nanaimo, the community features close access to a variety of outdoor recreation activities as well as the Vancouver Island University. Homes in Extension range in price from the high $100,000s to about $500,000, with the recent average at just under $350,000.

Central Nanaimo

Central Nanaimo real estate features affordable condominiums at under $100,000, and single family homes ranging from $200,000-$400,000. The median single family home price here is in the upper $200,000s. There are opportunities for duplex purchasing in this area, allowing for resident/landlord opportunities. Although diminishing, there are opportunities for property development as well. Central Nanaimo is only minutes from golfing, shopping, and the university.

North Nanaimo

Available real estate here includes quite a variety. North Nanaimo offers trailers, condos, single family homes, and several planned townhouse communities, the first wave of which is now available for residency. This community has the greatest price range, from less than $100,000 to over $700,000, with the median in the $350,000 range. Attractions here include Neck Point Park and Piper's Lagoon, right on North Nanaimo's popular waterfront. Current and future townhouse developments will be in close proximity and with easy access to Nanaimo's Island Highway.

Whether you are ready to move, or have simply been considering a home in Nanaimo, contact Sims Real Estate today to discuss your real estate goals and needs.

Jan. 25, 2017

Updated Move In Ready 3 Bedroom 2 Bathroom Home Near Country Club Mall

Beautifully kept and updated 3 bedroom 2 bathroom home with a spacious open concept. This home boasts in tons of natural lighting from large thermal windows, a skylight in the kitchen, as well as sliding glass doors located in the dining room, leading to a large balcony, also perfect for summer barbecues and family get togethers. Recent updates have been made to the home, including new stainless steel appliances, flooring, kitchen backsplash, and paint throughout. Outside, you will not only find plenty of room for RV/Boat parking, but a large, fully fenced backyard with a covered patio area, perfect for storing your yard tools and ornaments. There is also plenty of space in the backyard for gardening, and tree planting, perfect for anyone with a green thumb. Located on a quiet street, and only a short 2 minute walk to Country Club Mall, this home is close to all local amenities including grocery stores, restaurants, the library, and multiple bus stops leading to both the North and South end of town. All measurements are approximate and should be verified if important. 

Jan. 19, 2017

Buying a Home in Upper Lantzville, Nanaimo BC

Nanaimo is a rich community with many smaller regions and sectors that offer a unique character. Throughout the region, it is easy to find the ideal place for you to buy a home whether you are looking for a remote, more rural area or a vibrant coastal town. One location that is easy to overlook but that has much to offer is Upper Lantzville.

This community isn’t large but it has much more to offer in than many people realize. If you are considering buying a home in Nanaimo, don’t fail to check out Upper Lantzville.

What to Expect in Upper Lantzville Real Estate

This community is one that most definitely has a rural feel to it. It has a wide range of beautiful and natural areas pretty well preserved and protected. But, when it comes to real estate, there are numerous options to selection from and something for just about everyone.

Home values in this community range widely. The average home listing price is over $346,000. Much of the area offers unique, custom built homes with a wide range of styles. The most impressive and highest valued homes on the market here are often large, waterfront homes. Some are five bedrooms and span over 4,000 sq. ft. Others here offer mountain or ocean views from the home and modern upgrades such as large garages and open floor plans.  You will find many of the homes here sit on a significant amount of land, as well.

With options available for custom home building and the purchase or newer homes, Upper Lantzville is an ideal location to consider for many home buyers. This community is in the heart of Nanaimo, in a more rural section of it, but it offers good access to modern needs and stunning home sites. Work with a local Nanaimo real estate agent to find the ideal home for you in this incredible community and region.

Jan. 18, 2017

Investing in a Home in Chase River, a Nanaimo Real Estate Market

Located just outside of South Nanaimo is a community called Chase River. It is very easy for individuals to miss it as it is somewhat rural and more natural than other areas. Nevertheless, it is stunning and the ideal place to buy a home in Nanaimo. For those planning to invest in a home, don’t overlook the value and beauty that Chase River has to offer to you and to your family.

What You’ll Find in Chase River

The community of Chase River sits right next to the Nanaimo River Estuary. It is this area that helps to give the neighborhood a somewhat rural feel and a natural setting. However, it is not far from area shopping and restaurants. In fact, there are many options available to meet most homeowners’ needs right in the immediate area. The area is also close to the parkway. For those who commute into the downtown area or who want immediate access to the ferry terminals, Chase River is only a short drive away. It’s a conveniently located town in the heart of Nanaimo’s stunning region.

What about real estate in Chase River? You’ll find a wide range of options but one of the key features of homes here is their diversity. It is possible to find a home for a young family just starting out that’s reasonably priced. On the other hand, there are large, expansive mansions in some areas. It’s also possible to buy a home on one or two acres of land. The community has various neighborhoods with tree-lined streets and good walkability as well.

Finding the ideal home in Nanaimo means taking a closer look at some of these stunning communities. Work with an experienced Chase River real estate agent that can help you pinpoint the specific area that’s right for your needs. Nanaimo real estate is versatile to ensure everyone finds what they are looking for.

Jan. 4, 2017

$279,000 | 1240 Strathmore Street | 4 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom Close To All Amenities, Schools & Transportation

4 Bedroom 1 bathroom home located on a main bus route and is only a 5 minute drive from all amenities including the hospital, schools, and many local restaurants. This spacious and bright home has unlimited growing potential. New updates include all new kitchen appliances, as well as all new flooring and painting throughout the main floor. Just off the kitchen you will find a large patio, perfect for summer barbecues and entertaining friends & family. Heading outside there is a covered carport, room for RV/Boat parking, and a fully fenced treed backyard with a large shed/workshop, perfect for storing gardening supplies and tools. All measurements are approximate and should be verified if important. MLS# 418239 

Dec. 23, 2016

A Look at Nanaimo Real Estate Trends

The real estate market in Vancouver Island’s biggest town, Nanaimo, continues to impress. For those who are considering the need to buy a home now, the good news is that inventory is available, although limited. While you may pay a bit more for homes for sale here now than you did a few years ago, you’ll find that the area has much to offer that makes owning a home here ideal. It helps to take a closer look at the facts and figures, though, to know if this is the right time for you to buy or sell.

Home in Linley Point, Nanaimo

Home in Linley Point, Nanaimo | Image Provided by VIREB

Key Factors for November of 2016

One of the biggest factors impacting this market today is the limited number of homes for sale here. In fact, it is at an unprecedented low. There are only about 229 homes listed on the market for sale. Now, compare that to the numbers in November of 2011. During that time, there were over 520 homes listed for sale. And, when the market was growing rapidly in November of 2007, there were still many more homes for sale. At that time, about 460 homes were on the market.

So, what does that mean for those who are looking to buy a home here? In short, it means that home prices are going to grow as demand continues to grow and inventory remains low. For example, in that time period in 2011, when 520 homes were listed for sale, the average price for a home was about $357,000. Going back to 2007 when there were 460 homes on the market, the average sale price stood at $364,163. But, now, with the low numbers we have, the average sale price stood at $472,137.

As you can see, the area has a significant amount of competition. If you plan to sell now, you’ll likely see your home sell quickly, and you may get more for it. Whether you are looking to buy or sell in Nanaimo, contact Jason Simard and the Sims Real Estate team to discuss your goals.