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

Sept. 20, 2016

Recently Updated 4 Bedroom Home with Ocean View 2765 Elk Street

Recently updated 4 bedroom home, located only a few short blocks from Departure Bay Beach with wonderful ocean and mountain views that can be seen from the large deck located off the dining room. This unique home with vaulted wood and fir beam ceilings has not only a great layout, but it has had multiple updates and improvements including brand new windows, hardwood and laminate flooring, an updated kitchen, brand new bathroom downstairs, and new perimeter drainage. Located near all amenities, restaurants, and plenty of Nanaimo's parks and trails. All measurements are approximate, please verify if important. Call or email me today to view this beautiful home, it won't be available for long! Phone: 1-778-269-1288 email: jason@simsrealestate.ca 

Sept. 15, 2016

Is The Nanaimo Real Estate Market Cooling Down?

Jason here,

I wanted to take a quick moment to address a question I overheard the other day,

"Is the Nanaimo real estate market cooling down?"

In todays video I want to give you a quick update on the current real estate market situation in Nanaimo.

Watch the video here:

If you’d like to get access to more of our helpful videos make sure to checkout our YouTube channel here:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZq0XiDJey4wlALddjHb6sA

If you have any questions regarding any marketing trends in Nanaimo or buying or selling a home feel free to give me or my team a call. 

We’re always happy to help!

Thanks for watching and see you in a few weeks for another helpful video.

~Jason

Posted in Videos
Sept. 15, 2016

3 Bedroom Ocean View Condo Minutes Away From Downtown - 3C 374 Haliburton Street

Spacious 3 bedroom, 1 bathroom condo with open concept located minutes from the heart of Downtown Nanaimo. Wake up and enjoy your morning coffee by sitting on one of your two private balconies and enjoying your great ocean view. Shopping, restaurants, public parks, and a water park are all conveniently located nearby. The master bedroom is equipped with a walk-in closet, and door leading to the main bathroom. You can also rest assured knowing that there will be 2 reserved, secure parking stalls in a parking lot that is completely gated. All measurements are approximate and should be verified if important. Call Jason Simard today! 1-778-269-1288 

Sept. 13, 2016

Private Fully Fenced Back Yard With RV/Boat Parking - 1015 Bruce Avenue, Nanaimo

Very Private, 3 bedroom plus den home on nearly half an acre of land. This 2 level home has been recently updated with new electrical, plumbing, windows, high energy furnace and a roof that is only 6 years old. Looking for lots of space to store your boat or RV? Look no further as there is plenty of room out front. In the fully fenced backyard, there is a shop that has been completely wired and a large yard with fire pit and lovely deck area. This home is close to many amenities and is in walking distance from elementary and high schools in the University District. For more information or to book a viewing, contact me directly at 250-591-1160 or by email jason@simsrealestate.ca 

 

Sept. 2, 2016

Buying a Home in Nanaimo Means Opportunity

Vancouver Island, as well as most of British Columbia for that matter, is seeing a significant amount of growth and home value increases. There is no doubt that today’s home buyer is looking for affordability, yet sellers want the highest price possible. Nanaimo has a lot to offer in both regards. According to one of British Columbia’s largest lenders, Central 1 Credit Union, things look very promising not only right now, but also over the next two years.

Nanaimo, BC Home with a View

Seascape Manor Home, Nanaimo, BC - Image Provided by VIREB

A robust housing market in Nanaimo is a good thing for all involved. The good news lies in the fact that home prices are on their way up, helping to strengthen a home seller’s ability to see profits. On the other hand, this is also helping home buyers to secure the home they desire and build equity quickly. Central 1 Credit Union also points out that the region is likely to see home prices increase by as much as 12% over the previous year. That’s good news for all involved.

How to Buy a Home Now

Finding and buying ideal real estate in Nanaimo isn’t always easy though. This is a challenging market because home prices are higher (and increasing rapidly) and home inventory is low. While Nanaimo has new developments and a good number of homes on the market, it’s still a challenge to find the home you want and secure it. It means reacting quickly to listings and being ready to make your move as soon as you find the home that’s right for your needs.

To achieve this in the Greater Vancouver Island area, it’s going to be very important to work with experts who know the Nanaimo area well. It is expected that the region will see an increase of about 40,000 homes by 2018, and loan interest rates will remain low. But, buying a home right now means being ready to negotiate and ready to move right away. Contact the Jason Simard team today to learn what opportunities await you in Nanaimo.

Aug. 31, 2016

How the Purchase Plus Improvement Program Can Fund Renovations

Want to purchase a home that needs repairs or updates but don’t have the money? Don’t get discouraged. We’ve got a solution for you!

In todays video we’re going to talk about the Purchase Plus Improvements Program which many people have no idea exists.

Watch now:  

In this video Mark lets us know how you can have the renovations you’ve been dreaming of included with your mortgage so it’s not an out-of-pocket expense for up to $40,000.

If you’d like to learn more about the Purchase Plus Improvements Program or have any other mortgage related questions, you can reach Mark directly at the contact information below:

Mark Wellburn

MORTGAGE BROKER

Phone: (604) 603-8632

Email: mwellburn@peetcowan.com

Web: http://www.peetcowan.com

Posted in Videos
Aug. 31, 2016

Is Now the Time to Buy a Home in Nanoose Bay?

Are you looking to buy a home in the Vancouver Island area, but you are not quite sure which community is the right one for you and your family? Chances are good that you’re looking for a location that is naturally beautiful, offers a wide range of amenities for you, but is not necessarily in the higher price range often associated with the Metro Vancouver area. Communities like Nanoose Bay really make it possible for you to have everything you want in one central location, at a more affordable price. Is this the area for your family?

Nanoose Bay, BC Home for Sale

Home for Sale With a View in Nanoose Bay

What You’ll Find in Nanoose Bay?

The community is small, with about 5,000 people calling it home. It is situated between Nanaimo and the community of Parksville, meaning it is reasonably close to many of the amenities these larger cities have to offer. It is also on the Straight of Georgia, which means you’ll easily find some of the most impressive of views that the east coast of Vancouver Island can offer.

When you consider Nanoose Bay, remember that you are in the heart of one of the most beautiful natural areas. There are some picture perfect views here, impressive beaches, and beautiful expanses of wilderness. You’ll also find it is a small town, with most of the things you need including shops, restaurants, and entertainment located within a centralized area. The hiking and biking here are some of the best on the island. Even better, you can easily take full advantage of the waterfront area if you are planning to do some sailing.

Finding your dream home on Nanoose Bay takes some time. While there are homes for sale here, there is competition for them. Nanoose Bay definitely has plenty to offer for those looking for new development as well. Contact the Jason Simard team today to learn which Nanoose Bay real estate options are ideal for you, and get to know the community a bit more personally.

Aug. 29, 2016

Why Invest in Real Estate in Ladysmith, British Columbia?

Vancouver and the surrounding area of British Columbia have a lot to offer today’s families, young professional, seniors looking for a place to retire, or those who are simply looking for a beautiful place to call home. Ladysmith is one of the most desirable areas to live in throughout this region. As you take a closer look at all of the real estate opportunities available to you in this area, it is important to consider all that Ladysmith has to offer, including more affordable living.

Ladysmith Home for Sale with a View

Ladysmith Estate With Kiwi Vineyard - Image Provided by VIREB

What You’ll Love About Ladysmith

Ladysmith is a community located along the eastern coast of Vancouver Island. It has a strong local economy that is based on tourism, supplemented by agriculture and forestry. You’ll also find that it is the perfect place to buy a home with a view, as many of the homes here sit on a hillside that overlooks the beautiful harbour here. Those looking for natural beauty need look no further than Ladysmith.

Ladysmith is home to nearly 8,000 people, and it spans nearly 12 square kilometres. Many of the homes here are spacious, and sit on larger lots. However, the community centre is less spread out, and is much more urban. There are about 2,833 homes here, ranging from single family homes to condominiums and townhomes. You’ll also love the area's accessibility, with schools and parks within walking distance from your home. Shops and restaurants often lie within a short walk of many communities as well.

The real estate market in Ladysmith is strong with home prices on the rise, but it is not as drastic as that of living in the larger Vancouver metro area. If you want a home that’s ideally suited to your family’s needs, and close to everything you want and need to do, then Ladysmith is a great choice to consider. To learn more about the real estate opportunities that await you in Ladysmith, contact the Jason Simard team today, and let us help you find your next home!

Aug. 23, 2016

Parksville, a Vancouver Island Town to Buy Into

On Vancouver Island, you’ll find a wide range of beautiful homes to purchase. There are some communities here that offer something special. Parksville is one of them. It is located just off Highway 19A and about 37 kilometres from Port Alberni. The community also offers a number of fantastic home options for those looking for waterfront properties, spacious landscapes, and incredible views. Yet, this is a modern city and a busy one, too.

Parksville, BC Home for Sale

New Home for Sale in Parksville - Image Provided by VIREB 

What You’ll Find in Parksville

Parksville is a strong city with a large and growing business sector. Those who live here tend to be active, many with a passion for the beautiful outdoors surrounding them. You’ll also find that the area has a number of fantastic amenities including fun car shows in the summer. The Craig Street Market is also a local favourite for all it offers.

This community is home to about 20,000 people. It is perhaps best known for its sandy beaches that are well cared for. These sit along Craig Bay and Parksville Bay and are available to the public. You’ll also find the community has a number of outdoor parks and greenspaces. The mountains in the background make for the picture-perfect layout. Tourism is prevalent here and many of the economic factors present in this community have to do with the tourism industry. From golf to sailing, there are many reasons to visit.

For those who wish to live here, though, there’s much more to enjoy. The community has a modern and good school system. It is home to numerous recreational programs and a wide range of amenities for residents. Plus, this is a very welcoming place to live. To get to know the homes for sale in Vancouver Island including in Parksville, work with a local real estate agent. You’ll quickly see why this community has so much to offer today’s home buyer whether you are a senior or a family buying a first home.

Aug. 22, 2016

Buying a Home in Rural Vancouver Island

For many years, Vancouver Island’s main draw was that it had some of the densest forested areas and natural landscapes. It was, and still is, one of the most vibrant regions in the country. Over the last few years, though, we’ve seen a lot of change to the space. Many areas have grown at a very rapid pace and look a great deal like the big city of Vancouver. For some people, the goal of moving to and living on Vancouver Island is the ability to enjoy the outdoors. That’s why some people are actively seeking more rural areas of the island to buy a home in. The good news is there are plenty of options still available.

Rural Home for Sale on Vancouver Island

Rural Home in Errington - Image Provided by VIREB

Where to Find Your Rural Home

Whether you want to live in a large community like Parksville or a smaller one, one thing is for sure. You’re here to enjoy the outdoors. Vancouver Island has some areas and communities that offer just the landscape you are looking for.

A good place to start is with Coombs. It is a vibrant area, but full of wildlife rather than people. It’s an outlying community, so it is easy enough to get into and out of no matter where you need to visit on the island. In addition, Horne Lake and Whiskey Creek are two additional areas like this. You’ll love that there is a slower pace of life possible here. Take a look at Bowser and the community of Errington as well. Agricultural lifestyles are present in some of these areas. In others, you’ll find expansive land that looks untouched. These properties can be valuable not to mention beautiful.

Not everyone that moves to Vancouver Island is looking for the same thing. The good news is there are dozens of options to select from and plenty to meet most people’s needs. If you are looking for the perfect slice of rural life, work with a local real estate agent to help you find it here.