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Express Auto Wash in South Surrey is hosting its Grand Splash Fundraiser again. This time, the event supports Family Services of Greater Vancouver (FSGV). The car wash business previously raised over $6,500 for the Surrey Christmas Bureau during a holiday event.

Fundraiser Details

From May 17 to 20, Express Auto Wash will collect donations in exchange for its Platinum-level car washes. All proceeds will benefit FSGV. This non-profit helps youth, families, children, and other vulnerable individuals affected by homelessness, domestic violence, or other trauma. The goal is to help them create positive changes in their lives.

Participating Locations

All three Lower Mainland Express Auto Wash locations are participating:

• South Surrey: 2337 King George Blvd.
• Coquitlam: 1035 Lougheed Hwy.
• Boundary: 3680 East Fourth Ave.

Community Impact

“In partnering with FSGV, Express Auto Wash seeks to provide an opportunity for the Wash staff to do good in the community by taking care of customers while raising funds to lend a hand to families in need,” a poster for the event explains. The event builds on a previous 10-day fundraiser held in February 2023 at the Boundary location, which raised more than $18,000 for FSGV.

Support the Cause

Express Auto Wash invites everyone to participate in this meaningful event. The South Surrey location, along with the other two locations, will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. throughout the fundraiser. By getting a car wash, customers not only get their cars cleaned but also contribute to a worthy cause.

Should you need a South Surrey Realtor, please give Jared Gibbons a call! – Top 1% Realtor in the Fraser Valley.

This massive Langley home looks fit for a lord. Currently listed for $35 million, it stands as one of the most expensive homes in Metro Vancouver and even the entire Canadian market. From certain angles, it resembles a 600-year-old English manor or tavern, far surpassing the cost of actual English manors.

Dubbed Tannin Manor, this house is situated on a sprawling 28.75-acre plot. Despite its vast outdoor space, it’s the interior that truly captivates. The 15,300-square-foot home features stone walls, arched doorways, raw lumber, torch-like lights, huge wooden doors, and intricate ironwork, all contributing to its medieval charm. The ambiance feels ready for a Monty Python and the Holy Grail re-enactment.

While not entirely designed and decorated in a medieval style, much of the home appears as if it has been plucked from Robin Hood’s era or a film set. Particularly, the bar and wine cellar evoke scenes from Game of Thrones, needing minimal effort to fit the show’s aesthetic.

Not Just Medieval Charm

Beyond its medieval allure, Tannin Manor boasts several luxurious amenities. The listing highlights features such as a wine cellar, yoga room, bar with pool table, media room, library, and playroom. The media room doubles as a home theatre with its own bar. Additionally, there’s a separate gym area and a garage the size of many Vancouver homes.

Valuation and Usage

Interestingly, while the property is listed at $35 million, B.C. Assessment values it at $6 million, largely due to its classification as farmland. The luxurious home extends beyond what the listing shows and includes agricultural structures.

This extraordinary home blends medieval fantasy with modern luxury, making it a unique and captivating property in Metro Vancouver.

Should you need a South Surrey Realtor, please give Jared Gibbons a call! – Top 1% Realtor in the Fraser Valley.

Assignment of Contract – Luxury Living in Grandview Surrey: Holden Residences Unit #105

Step into urban luxury with this 2 bed + den / 2 bath condo in Grandview Surrey’s Holden Residences. Spanning 954 sqft, this assignment of contract listing offers contemporary elegance.

Discover a seamless blend of style and functionality within the open-concept layout, boasting 9’ ceilings throughout. The kitchen, a chef’s haven, features stainless steel appliances, including an industrial-style gas range and counter-depth French door refrigerator.

Indulge in the ensuite’s frameless glass door shower and the convenience of a tub/shower combination in the main bath. Thoughtful amenities include 2” blinds for privacy and rough-ins for A/C, Gas BBQ Connection, and an EV Charger.

Beyond the confines of your home, you’ll discover a vibrant community waiting to be explored. Situated near the Grandview Aquatic Centre and the upscale shops and dining options at Morgan Crossing, you’ll never be far from entertainment, recreation, and everyday conveniences. Whether you’re enjoying a stroll through the neighborhood or running errands, everything you need is right at your doorstep.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to secure your slice of paradise in Grandview Surrey. Contact us today to learn more and start your journey towards urban luxury living at Holden Residences! Please contact Jared Gibbons if you have any questions!

Welcome to our detailed exploration of the Fraser Valley’s real estate scene, spotlighting April 2024 statistics to illuminate present market trends. Whether you’re considering buying or selling, staying informed about the evolving dynamics in both detached and attached property markets across the Fraser Valley is crucial for making well-informed decisions.

Surrey

Detached Properties

In Surrey’s detached property market, current indicators suggest a balanced landscape with a 14% sales ratio on average, translating to approximately 1.4 in 10 homes sold. Homes are selling, on average, 1% above their list prices. The most active price band, ranging from $1 million to $1.25 million, showcases a seller’s advantage with an average 44% sales ratio. For buyers seeking optimal opportunities, homes priced between $2.25 million to $2.75 million in areas like Bear Creek and West Newton, particularly those with a minimum of 7 bedrooms, present favorable prospects. Conversely, sellers may find success focusing on areas such as Royal Heights and Sullivan Station, especially with properties boasting up to 4 bedrooms.

Attached Properties

In a recent letter to Federal Housing Minister Sean Fraser, a Langley resident proposed a novel solution to Canada’s housing challenges: the construction of float homes along the country’s coastlines and waterways.

The writer highlights the abundance of public lands along Canada’s coastlines, suggesting that these areas could be utilized to house more people. By building float homes and houseboats on federal and provincial lands, the writer argues that Canada could create a new opportunity for affordable housing.

The proposal emphasizes the importance of infrastructure development in these potential float home communities. By providing lease land with docks and necessary infrastructure, such as utilities and transportation access, the government could facilitate the rapid construction of float homes, offering housing solutions to Canadians in need.

Furthermore, the writer envisions a diverse range of housing options in these communities, including co-ops, non-profit agencies, and low-income housing initiatives. This approach aims to ensure that housing is accessible to Canadians of all income levels, providing both rental units and opportunities for first-time homebuyers.

Ultimately, the letter urges Canada to recognize the untapped potential of its coastlines and waterways for housing development. By embracing a forward-thinking approach and responsibly managing these public lands, Canada could address its housing needs while enriching local economies and enhancing opportunities for all Canadians.

The letter concludes by emphasizing the importance of considering all available options for housing Canadians, highlighting the potential of float homes as a platform for the country’s future housing strategies.

Written by Jared Gibbons – Top 1% Realtor in the Fraser Valley

Kerr Properties Ltd. submitted a development permit application to the City on April 4 for the lot at the northwest corner of 203rd Street and Fraser Highway, proposing a six-story condo development for the former site of Gabby’s Country Cabaret in downtown Langley City.

If approved, the new Langley Development will feature a six-story building comprising 78 apartments on the upper floors and 678 square meters of commercial space on the ground floor.

The apartments will include a mix of one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom units, with bike parking provided for residents.

While awaiting approval, the proposed building’s location strategically situates it near the future SkyTrain station planned for the east side of 203rd Street.

The former site of Gabby’s Country Cabaret, which hosted live country music acts and served as a filming location for TV productions like Riverdale, closed its doors during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The building underwent demolition in the spring of 2021, marking the end of its legacy.

Written by Jared Gibbons – Top 1% Realtor in the Fraser Valley.

Chilliwack and Mission, along with 18 other communities in British Columbia’s high-growth areas, will receive housing targets this summer as part of the Homes for B.C. action plan.

Building upon Progress: The Second Round of Housing Targets

This marks the second round of cities identified for housing targets, aiming to increase housing density across the province. Notable inclusions are Chilliwack, Mission, Langley, and Maple Ridge.

Collaborative Efforts: Municipalities and Provincial Support

Housing Minister Ravi Kahon emphasizes the importance of communities building on their existing efforts to address housing challenges. The province will closely support municipalities in meeting their housing targets, facilitating the construction of much-needed homes.

Legislative Support and Funding Initiatives

New legislation under the B.C. Homes for People action plan includes provisions for designated Transit-Oriented Areas, updated Official Community Plans, and streamlined approval processes. Financial support includes the historic $1-billion Growing Communities Fund and grants for housing-related activities.

Promoting Affordability and Rental Options

The Housing Supply Act is a key component of the Province’s Homes for People action plan, aimed at increasing housing availability and curbing speculation. These efforts are crucial for addressing the housing crisis and promoting rental options for British Columbians.

Written by Jared Gibbons – Top 1% Realtor in the Fraser Valley.

Residents in South Surrey are rallying against the construction of a proposed biofuel facility, citing potential health risks. A group called the Clean Air Alliance is urging people with respiratory and other health issues within 10 kilometers of the site to join their cause.

Health Risks and Research Findings

Studies cited by the Alliance suggest that people living within this radius of similar facilities have a higher risk of visiting emergency rooms for respiratory diseases. Jean Vanderbyl, a spokesperson for the group who lives nearby and suffers from allergies, expressed concern about the strain this facility could put on an already burdened healthcare system.

Uncertainties and Funding Withdrawal

The proposed anaerobic digestion facility, slated for Semiahmoo First Nation land near the border crossing, has stirred controversy since its announcement. Originally a partnership between SFN and Andion Global Inc., it has since transitioned to Taurus RNG. However, uncertainties arise following Natural Resources Canada’s withdrawal of funding support.

Grassroots Efforts and Community Engagement

While opponents welcomed the news of funding withdrawal, their focus remains on preventing the facility’s construction. They seek detailed information on the number of residents at risk from its emissions.

Mapping Health Risks and Advocacy

In response, the Clean Air Alliance plans to create a map representing residents at higher risk. This map will support their efforts in presenting concerns to relevant government bodies and appealing any permit approvals.

Taking Action: Community Participation

Residents concerned about their proximity to the South Surrey Biofuel facility are encouraged to contact the Clean Air Alliance with their details. This grassroots movement underscores the importance of community involvement in environmental decision-making.

Written by Jared Gibbons – Top 1% Realtor in the Fraser Valley.

Officials at Urban Safari Rescue Society in South Surrey are optimistic about reopening their facility to the public this summer. This follows a devastating fire over a year ago.

Building Progress and Permits

Recent updates indicate positive strides. The necessary building permits have been acquired, and a successful electric inspection at the 1395 176 St. center has been completed. This milestone paves the way for crucial restoration work, including insulation, drywall installation, and fixture installations.

Restoration Efforts

Efforts are underway to restore the smoke-damaged areas. The aim is to fully refurbish the facility and resume public visits.

Fire Aftermath

The fire, occurring in late January 2023, caused extensive damage and resulted in the loss of around 60 exotic animals. Despite the setback, the society continued its outreach education programs and animal care initiatives.

Timeline Uncertainty

While there is no exact reopening date, updates will be shared on the society’s website and social media platforms once confirmed.

Community Engagement

In the meantime, the society remains active in community engagement. It offers presentations in various settings and organizes fundraising events, such as a forthcoming 50/50 fundraiser.

Participation in City Events

Urban Safari representatives and some animals will participate in the City of Surrey’s Party for the Planet on April 27. They will showcase their work and raise awareness about conservation efforts.

Continued Support

As restoration efforts progress, the society appreciates the ongoing support from the community and looks forward to welcoming visitors back to the center soon. For more information, contact info@urbansafari.ca.

Written by Jared Gibbons – Top 1% Realtor in the Fraser Valley.

For the 2024-25 financial year, the government plans to spend a whopping $535 billion to support various initiatives and programs. Breakdown of the federal budget below:

Deficit: $39.8 Billion

The projected deficit falls just short of the $40-billion mark outlined in the fall economic statement, standing at $39.8 billion.

New Spending: $11.5 Billion

An additional $11.5 billion will fuel various sectors to stimulate growth and address pressing needs.

Housing Investment: $8.5 Billion

The government allocates a substantial $8.5 billion to encourage new housing development, aiming to tackle housing challenges across the nation.

Housing Plan Impact: 3.87 Million New Homes

The government’s housing plan aims to facilitate the construction of approximately 3.87 million new homes by 2031, addressing housing shortages.

Investment in Generational Fairness: $2.6 Billion

To promote educational opportunities and job creation for younger Canadians, the government invests $2.6 billion towards initiatives fostering generational fairness.

Capital Gains Tax Revenue: $19.4 Billion

Over the next five years, Ottawa expects to generate $19.4 billion in revenue through targeted changes to capital gains taxes.

Universal Coverage Costs: $1.5 Billion

The government plans to cover the costs of contraceptives and diabetes medicine and supplies, estimating a total expenditure of $1.5 billion over the next five years.

Excise Tax Increase Revenue: $1.7 Billion

An increase in excise tax rates for tobacco products is projected to yield $1.7 billion in revenue for the government over the next five years.

Defense Budget Boost: $8.1 Billion

Canada’s defense budget will receive a significant boost of $8.1 billion over the next five years to strengthen national security and capabilities.

Defense Spending as a Percentage of GDP: 1.76%

By 2030, defense spending is expected to reach 1.76% of GDP, although still below the 2 percent NATO target.

Emphasis on Fairness: 50 Mentions

The federal budget document underscores the concept of “fairness,” appearing a noteworthy 50 times, reflecting the government’s commitment to equity and justice.

Written by Jared Gibbons – Top 1% Realtor in the Fraser Valley