NEW Restaurants Coming to Morgan Crossing!!

If you live near Morgan Crossing, you already know about the fabulous selection of shops, services, and amenities the area offers. Everything from the convenient big box stores like Winners and London Drugs, to exclusive local boutiques, and the state-of-the-art Steve Nash Sports Club are all located in the European style walkable village. I’m excited to announce the opening of 3 restaurants that are sure to become neighbourhood staples and the hot new hangouts for locals of South Surrey / White Rock!   I’m hopeful that these new hang outs will offer up sweet deals on my TXT ShoutOut featured below.  If you have not signed up to receive special deals from my ShoutOut, be sure to TEXT “DEAL” to 33733 to sign up now!! Sammy J’s Grill & Bar (Opening Spring 2013) – One of those rare places that works for every occasion, Sammy J’s is perfect for families, date night, girls/guys night out, or, with their amazing sports lounge complete with 100” TV and surround sound – any game night! If you’re a fan of Caesar’s, you must try the Ultimate Sammy Caesar – Finlandia Vodka, Mott’s Clamato spiced with their own pepper infusion, and garnished with peppered bacon, pepperoni, havarti cheese, tiger prawn, blazes bean, olive, and a sprig of celery. Delicious doesn’t begin to describe this tasty unique drink concoction! Famoso Neapolitan Pizzeria (Opening Summer 2013) – Famoso was born after co-owner Justin Lussier traveled to Napoli, Italy in the summer of 2005 and fell in love with the famous mouth-watering fire-roasted pizzas Napoli is known for. We can’t all travel to Napoli to experience the best pizza on earth, but lucky for us Famoso has brought the age-old recipe of Neapolitan pizza to Canada. How? 00 Caputo flour and tomatoes imported straight from Italy combine with fresh ingredients and …

26-15255 36AV: Ferngrove Townhouse in Rosemary Heights (Morgan Creek)

FERNGROVE – Duplex style town home!! Spacious and bright with 9 foot ceilings on the main floor. GREAT ROOM floorplan boasts large living & dining rooms, 2 fireplaces, Maple European Style Kitchen with upgraded appliances, eating bar. 3br, 3 bath with media / games room in fully finished basement.  Full 2 car garage. Balcony with gas plumbed for BBQ, and large front porch with south exposure. Excellent area near schools, shopping and Golf Course.

The Woods (by Gramercy): Townhouse Complex at 15588 32nd Ave, South Surrey / White Rock

Hip and affordable townhomes perfectly located close to Highway 99 in South Surrey / White Rock for easy commuting,and conveniently located near Morgan Creek to take advantage of the  shops, cafes and restaurants in  Morgan Crossing. These trendy & hip townhome layouts have been very well thought out.  The homes are extremely spacious, bright, and include an awesome rooftop patio!! These townhomes also offer something that is very difficult to find  in South Surrey / White Rock – The Woods units are zoned for LIVE / WORK, which means that you can LEGALLY run a home business from the “studio” area in your townhome. For further info on townhomes at The Woods, please contact Trevor: Ph:  604-764-1380 Email:  trevor@theTownhouseGuy.ca

February, 2013: South Surrey / White Rock Real Estate Update

POSITIVE SIGNS FRASER VALLEY HOUSING MARKET IS STARTING TO MOVE (Surrey, BC) – Sales on Fraser Valley’s Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in February experienced a typical ‘early spring’ surge, increasing by 48 per cent in one month going from 617 sales in January to 913 last month. However year-over-year, they reflect a decrease of 28 per cent compared to the 1,269 sales processed in February 2012. Since last September, home sales have idled at levels last seen in the early 2000s. Based on February’s increase in activity, Ron Todson, President of the Board, is guardedly optimistic, “We’re seeing signals that the stand-off between buyers and sellers over the last six months is coming to an end. “Business has picked up in the last month with increased traffic at open houses, sellers quicker to accept offers and homes selling on average two weeks faster than they did in January.” Todson adds that tightening inventory has also had an effect, “When buyers see that their selection is diminishing they’re more motivated to act.” The Board posted 2,582 new listings last month, a decrease of 9 per cent compared to the 2,846 posted during February last year pushing the total number of active listings down by 1.6 per cent compared to 2012. “As your REALTOR® will explain, each market is different. Right now, the market for detached homes is balanced in North Delta and Langley. The condo market is brisk in Abbotsford and Central Surrey and townhome sales are steady in North and Central Surrey as well as Cloverdale. “One commonality amongst these areas and property types is greater affordability. What’s not doing well generally anywhere in the Fraser Valley is sales of higher-end homes unless they are priced competitively.” In February, the benchmark price of single family detached homes in the Fraser …

$10,000 New Home Buyer Bonus – STILL TIME LEFT!!

If you are currently in the market for a new home and qualify as a first-time new home buyer, you may be eligible to receive a significant bonus of up to $10,000 from the BC government.  The First-Time Home Buyers’ Bonus is a non-taxable one-time payment to the purchaser and we’ve seen many happy homeowners benefit from this limited time government offer. With interest rates at historic lows, and a great selection of brand new homes on the market, this truly is a great opportunity to own your first home. ELIGIBLE  FIRST – TIME  NEW HOME BUYER You will qualify as a first-time new home buyer if: You purchase or build an eligible new home located in B.C.; You, or for couples, you and your spouse or common law partner, have never previously owned a primary residence; You file a 2011 B.C. resident personal income tax return, or if you move to B.C. after December 31, 2011, you file a 2012 B.C. resident personal income tax return (you will not be eligible for the bonus if you move to B.C. after December 31, 2012); You are eligible for the B.C. HST New Housing Rebate; and You intend to live in the home as your primary residence. There is still time left to take advantage of this great offer from the government.  To find out more info on this government incentive, CLICK HERE.  

Cathedral Grove Townhomes: 2738 158th Street, South Surrey / White Rock

Overview  Nestled in a serene setting amongst a grove of tall evergreens, you’ll discover Cathedral Grove, Polygon’s executive-style townhome community in the revered Morgan Heights neighbourhood of South Surrey. This beautiful collection of spacious townhomes are reflective of English Arts & Crafts-style architecture and feature open-plan interiors with four bedrooms, gourmet kitchens with cozy eating nooks and family rooms, main floor powder rooms, large decks, private fenced yards and attached double-car garages. At the heart of the community, a winding pathway through a lush garden leads to the impressive Evergreen Club, the country club-inspired residents-only clubhouse that invites homeowners to take time to relax and enjoy over 7,500 square feet of amenities, including an outdoor swimming pool and spa, fitness studio, fireside lounge, movie room and more. And for first-class activities, the award-winning Morgan Creek golf course, an abundance of schools – including Southridge private school – and an exciting new shopping village are all just minutes away. Features Traditional English Arts and Crafts architecture designed by award-winning Raymond Letkeman Architect Inc. Natural, central green space with towering evergreens, private country-club style amenity and architecturally appointed gatehouse to welcome you home. Solid maple overheight wood cabinetry in two select stain finishes paired with brushed stainless steel pulls. Entertain friends around the granite wrapped island. Quality and design are expressed through energy-efficient stainless steel appliances by Bosch. Ensuites offer a deep soaker tub and separate showers surrounded by natural stone inserts encased in handset ceramic tile. TO FIND OUT ABOUT NEW LISTINGS IN THIS TOWNHOUSE COMPLEX BEFORE THEY HIT THE PUBLIC MLS, CONTACT: LOCAL:  604-764-1380 EMAIL:  TREVOR@THETOWNHOUSEGUY.CA

Augusta Townhomes: 17171 2B Ave, South Surrey / White Rock

Augusta townhomes at 17171 2B is superbly designed & built by Award winning Isle of Mann construction. Unique plans to accommodate everyone’s wishes for a relaxed West Coast Lifestyle in keeping with nature at your doorstep, yet easily accessible to major routes for work/fun. Crowns, sprayed ceilings, granite counter tops, cabinets with gorgeous millwork, Hardy Plank exteriors, oversize islands, stainless steel Energy Star deluxe appliances, slide in gas range, gas line to BBQ’s, elegant light fixtures. TO FIND OUT ABOUT NEW LISTINGS IN THIS TOWNHOUSE COMPLEX BEFORE THEY HIT THE PUBLIC MLS, CONTACT: LOCAL:  604-764-1380 EMAIL:  TREVOR@THETOWNHOUSEGUY.CA

Elgin Oaks Townhomes: 3266 147th Ave, South Surrey / White Rock

Elgin Oaks in South Surrey is comprised of 18 detached homes and 16 boutique townhouses. Quartz counters, crown moulding, stainless steel appliances, high end Samsung washer and dryer are all standard. Plus have the benefit of an Energuide rating of 86. The Geo-Thermal heating and cooling will cut down on your bills every month and help mother nature. TO FIND OUT ABOUT NEW LISTINGS IN THIS TOWNHOUSE COMPLEX BEFORE THEY HIT THE PUBLIC MLS, CONTACT: LOCAL:  604-764-1380 EMAIL:  TREVOR@THETOWNHOUSEGUY.CA

Breeze Townhomes: 16223 & 16222 23A Ave, South Surrey / White Rock

Breeze, by Adera, is a vibrant community of townhomes in South Surrey. Breeze is a few short blocks away from Morgan Crossing which includes Thrifty Foods, Steve Nash Fitness World and much more. You’re also a few minutes away from Crescent Beach, White Rock Beach and the Semiahmoo Trail. Designed in stunning West Coast Modern architecture, this community will be anchored by the West Coast Club dedicated to health and entertainment, designed to allow you to LIVE WEST COAST to the fullest! Experience urban living in suburban Morgan Heights, with easy access to the US border, Richmond, and downtown Vancouver. TO FIND OUT ABOUT NEW LISTINGS IN THIS TOWNHOUSE COMPLEX BEFORE THEY HIT THE PUBLIC MLS, CONTACT: LOCAL:  604-764-1380 EMAIL:  TREVOR@THETOWNHOUSEGUY.CA

Abbey Road Townhomes: 2469 164th St, South Surrey / White Rock

Abbey Road at 2469 164TH Street is a collection of 2 to 4 bedroom townhomes ranging from 1,300 to almost 2,000 sq ft. Standard finishing includes stainless steel appliances, gas range and quartz counters. These units are just a few blocks away from the shops Morgan Crossing including Fitness World, Thrifty’s, London Drugs and Walmart. TO FIND OUT ABOUT NEW LISTINGS IN THIS TOWNHOUSE COMPLEX BEFORE THEY HIT THE PUBLIC MLS, CONTACT: LOCAL:  604-764-1380 EMAIL:  TREVOR@THETOWNHOUSEGUY.CA

Allure Townhomes: 2689 Parkway Dr, South Surrey / White Rock

Allure features 9 ft ceilings on the main, stunning kitchens with stainless stell Bosch appliances, engineered hardwood floors, built in vacuum systems and spa inspired bathrooms with a powder room on the main. Quality construction and finishng by award winning Weststone Properties.   TO FIND OUT ABOUT NEW LISTINGS IN THIS TOWNHOUSE COMPLEX BEFORE THEY HIT THE PUBLIC MLS, CONTACT: LOCAL:  604-764-1380 EMAIL:  TREVOR@THETOWNHOUSEGUY.CA

The Heights Townhomes: 2845 156th Street, South Surrey / White Rock

The lush exterior landscaping at The Heights townhomes is only the beginning. Step inside these contemporary townhouse residences and explore award winning design in the many creative floor plans. Carefully constructed for the discerning homeowner, The Heights townhomes features spacious interiors and gourmet kitchens with gleaming quartz countertops and state-of-the-art appliances. From decorative drawer pulls to under cabinet lighting in the kitchen, there are numerous stylish touches and added extras that make daily life extraordinary. The Heights is a combination of 39 townhouses and 66 condos. The townhouses range from two and three bedrooms units ranging from 1,400 to 2,000 sqft. The Heights townhouse complex is located just a few blocks away from all the shopping at Morgan Crossing & Grandview Corner, which includes Thrifty’s and Steve Nash Fitness World. TO FIND OUT ABOUT NEW LISTINGS IN THIS TOWNHOUSE COMPLEX BEFORE THEY HIT THE PUBLIC MLS, CONTACT: LOCAL:  604-764-1380 EMAIL:  TREVOR@THETOWNHOUSEGUY.CA

Laureates Walk: Harvard Gardens, 3399 151 ST Townhouse Complex

New Townhomes are now SOLD OUT!! CLICK HERE to receive information regarding units that come up for RE-SALE.   Inspired by the architecture of urban Boston row homes and the heritage and prestige of its notable collegiate institutions Polygon is pleased to introduce their latest master planned community in South Surrey, Harvard Gardens. Tucked away on 34th Avenue, Laureates Walk is the first and only townhomes at Harvard Gardens. An exclusive collection of just 40 homes, there is a mix of two, three, and four bedroom homes. Laureates Walk will be the only homes of their kind at Harvard Gardens and espouse a strong, secure, and prestigious architectural character while providing the latest contemporary finishings. DOWNLOAD FLOORPLANS HERE Close to top schools, golf courses, restaurants, shopping and more, residents at Laureates Walk will also enjoy membership to the private community clubhouse – The Rowing Club – featuring an outdoor pool and spa, gymnasium, fitness facilities, screening room and more. CONTACT: Trevor Brucki 604-764-1380 trevor@theTownhouseGuy.ca Features Laureates Walk impresses with distinctive Boston-inspired architecture featuring stately brick cladding, window boxes, wooden window shutters, and welcoming entry porticos. Contemporary metal paneled entry doors with windows and polished chrome hardware welcome you home. Warm laminate wood flooring is featured in all homes throughout the main level and sets the tone for tasteful design. Plush CRI Green Label nylon carpeting in bedrooms and hallways puts comfort at your feet. Nine-foot ceilings on the main floor add an elegant, airy ambiance; upper and lower floors feature eight-foot ceilings. Enjoy custom-designed wood grain flat-panel Antique Oak or Snow White high gloss laminate cabinetry with brushed nickel hardware. Experience the everyday luxury of quartz countertops and full-height imported ceramic tile backsplash. Retreat to the master ensuite bathroom featuring quartz countertops, a shower with glass door, dual porcelain sinks, dual-flush toilet, large vanity …

Sereno Townhomes: 15151 34th Ave South Surrey / White Rock

Sereno at 15151 34th Avenue is a Boffo built townhouse complex. Awarded the Georgie Award for best townhouse development. This gated community consists of 79 homes, a clubhouse and gym.  The units feature gas fireplaces and 9 foot ceilings. TO FIND OUT ABOUT NEW LISTINGS AT SERENO BEFORE THEY HIT THE PUBLIC MLS, CONTACT: LOCAL:  604-764-1380 EMAIL:  TREVOR@THETOWNHOUSEGUY.CA

Coach House!!! 19284 69A AVE, Clayton Heights, Cloverdale

The Residences at Westchester built by the best European builder in Clayton! Coach home with a LEGAL SUITE above detached garage. Unmatched quality of construction in this executive Coach home with an upscale brick exterior, oakhardwood flooring, silestone counters, alder cabinets, 9′ ceilings on main and upper floors & Carriage house Suite. Crown moldings throughout. Prepare to fall in love with the spacious great room, oversized yard with sunny southern exposure, large master bedroom, oversized walk-in closet and full size laundry room on the upper floor. Shop & Compare . . . Best Value . . .Best Built . . . Best Location . . . Biggest Yard!

Azure Townhomes: 2453 – 2456 163rd Street, Grandview Surrey, South Surrey White Rock

Magnificent 2 storey townhouse development with fully finished basements and side by side garages, at 2453 – 2456 163rd Street, Grandview Surrey, South Surrey White Rock.   Elegantly designed and meticulously finished great room concept with 10 ft. ceilings and fireplace. Gourmet Kitchens, all granite including oversized island, full height backsplash and hardwood throughout main level. 3 bedrooms up plus open loft area overlooking great room. Huge master bedrooms complete with 5 piece ensuite. Bright open floor plans with incredibly large windows and 3.5 baths. Fully fenced yards. Great location only steps to all the shops, amenities and restaurants that Morgan Heights has to offer. TO FIND OUT ABOUT NEW LISTINGS AT AZURE BEFORE THEY HIT THE PUBLIC MLS, CONTACT: LOCAL:  604-764-1380 EMAIL:  TREVOR@THETOWNHOUSEGUY.CA

January, 2013: White Rock / South Surrey Real Estate Market Update

HOME SALES SLOW TO NEAR HISTORIC LEVELS IN FRASER VALLEY AS BUYERS WATCH AND WAIT FROM SIDELINES (Surrey, BC) – A total of 617 sales were processed through the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board’s Multiple Listing Service (MLS®) in January, a decrease of 23 per cent compared to 799 sales during the same month last year. January 2013 ranks as the second slowest for that month in the last thirteen years, second only to January 2009 during the global recession. Scott Olson, president of the board, says there is a distinction between what REALTORS® saw four years ago compared to today. “People want to buy. We’re already seeing early signs of a typical spring market with more foot traffic at open houses and an increase in calls. “Buyers have been holding off in hopes that prices will drop more, however it’s become clear that sellers are only willing to go so far. Prices for typical homes in the Fraser Valley have decreased by only two to three per cent in the last six months and in January we’re starting to see a reversal of that – in half of our communities prices have crept back up.” Olson suspects the market stalemate may be coming to an end. “The number one reason people buy a home is a lifestyle decision – you need a bigger home, a smaller one, closer to work or school – so when the right home comes along you can only wait so long. “With interest rates as low as they are, our local economy as strong as it is and prices so tenacious I think we’ll see the effects of this pent-up demand and a return to more balance in the market.” In the last six months, prices for all three residential property types combined have …

Commuting between South Surrey & Vancouver

Commuting can be such a drag. That’s why so many homebuyers are drawn to the Grandview area in South Surrey (Morgan Heights). A short 10-minute stroll to Grandview Corners will bring you to the coffee shop (Mink Cafe), the kitchen store, the salon and more. But it’s the area’s proximity to Richmond, YVR, South Surrey Park & Ride and the US border that has people new to South Surrey very happy. South Surrey Park & Ride Only minutes away, South Surrey Park & Ride is located at King George and Hwy 99. The Park & Ride has hundreds of parking spaces available seven days a week. You will want to look for Bays 3 and 4, with busses heading to Bridgeport Station and the Expo Line SkyTrain. King George SkyTrain Station From the Park & Ride, make your way to the King George SkyTrain Station. Once you’re here, a trip downtown will take you less than an hour. Hop on the Expo Line for an exciting day trip to Science World, or venture into the heart of Gastown. King George to Waterfront takes 40 minutes, with trains running every six to eight minutes on weekends. Richmond and YVR A half-hour drive heading north on Highway 99 will bring you to Richmond’s city centre. Many of our homeowners’ business offices are in the heart of Richmond, so hearing about this 30-minute commute was thoroughly good news. Ten minutes further, and you’ll find yourself at Vancouver International Airport. Getting to the airport couldn’t be easier, finding the time to get away might be a bit more challenging. US Border Heading south over the border might just become a regular weekend occurrence. Escape for a day trip down Chuckanut Drive, shop till you drop at Tulalip’s Premium Outlets or check out the fish market at Pike Place in downtown Seattle. The Peace Arch border …

SOLD!! 2-2450 161A ST, Glenmore Townhouse Community

What a great find for an awesome family that I’ve been working with!!  This townhome in Morgan Heights is now SOLD – but if you’re looking for one like it, let me know so I can notify you when another one comes available!  

The Housing Bubble in Vancouver (Lower Mainland, BC)

Housing Bubbleoney, By Cameron Muir, BCREA Chief Economist I am now convinced that we will never hear the end of housing bubble speak. The premise is now as firmly entrenched in popular consciousness as carbon emissions and TMZ. It has taken the form of idolatry in the blogosphere, where any countervailing narrative is demonized. It has catapulted university dropouts into media darlings because of a hackneyed webpage and an opinion. It has been tarted up by so-called experts who predict impending doom year after year, despite being completely wrong every time. Now, I’m not wearing tinted glasses. Housing markets go up and they go down. However, my point is that sharp and signif- icant declines in home prices are usually created by massive economic shocks, like the 21 per cent mortgage rates and recession of 1982. Yes, there can be short- term speculative bubbles that float back to earth after the circus leaves town, but home prices in Vancouver, for example, have been incongruous with other Canadian markets for decades. The big test was 2008. That was the year of the doomsayers, when the largest financial crisis since the Great Depression besieged us and the collateral damage hurled us into a global recession, one from which we still haven’t fully recovered. The airwaves were all a buzz with end of the world prophets and those predicting home prices would be chopped in half, at least. It was going to be the big one! The housing market had gone through a significant inflationary period leading up to 2008. Unlike today, specula- tion was clearly evident. Accusations abounded that Vancouver was overvalued, unsustainable and frothy. One financial institution even had a publication called Housing Bubble Watch, now defunct, in which Vancouver was always the straw man. So what happened? Home prices fell …

Free Properties in White Rock, BC?

Only 100 years too late !!  When I finish building my time machine, I’m going back to 1911 to take part in this deal!! Check it out!

Kallisto: 3009 156th ST, South Surrey / White Rock Townhouse

Your Community Nestled in a dazzling natural setting, your home at Kallisto is within an easy 10 minutes’ drive to White Rock’s famous beachfront restaurants and galleries, neighbourhood shopping destinations like Grandview Corners and Peninsula Village and the U.S. border. Schools, transit, and Highway 99 to Vancouver all make the move to Kallisto a smart one. But this home is also a little bit country, with Sunnyside Acres Urban Forest, farms and wineries, seasonal farmers’ markets and major recreational areas also minutes away. First ImpressionsExpect love at first sight when arriving at Kallisto, with its well-designed landscaping, including individual yards and some garden-level concrete patios.Of course, your own community Amenity Building for those oversized parties and on-site play equipment certainly spell convenience. At Kallisto, the emphasis is on quality construction and finishes, from the smallest details like high-style sinks to the impressive stonework that defines this group of residences. Four floor plans each boast two, three, or four bedrooms, and an interesting selection of layout options to suit your lifestyle. Whether you’re a growing family or just need plenty of room for guests and entertaining, you’ll find your fit here. The Inside Story Beyond the impressive heritage-style, raised-panel front door, you’ll find an enticing living room. Nine-foot ceilings and a cozy mood-adjustable fireplace set into the wall surrounded, in many units, by lit niches make the look a real wow. Large windows and crown molding on this main level all contribute to a feeling of space and luxury.While the innovative layouts have been designed by an award-winning architect, you’ll be able to choose from two designer coordinated colour schemes: “Summer” for those who identify with a light, breezy pallet and “Winter,” if rich espresso tones are more a reflection of your taste.The feeling of spaciousness extends through to Kallisto’s smart, …

Vinterra: Townhouse at 2603 162 ST, South Surrey / White Rock (Morgan Heights)

In the tradition of the legendary Frank Lloyd Wright, the architecture for Vinterra (2603 162 ST, South Surrey / White Rrock, Morgan Heights) is purposely-and brilliantly-simple. A discerning contemporary design is complemented by an innovative landscape plan that, like Vinterra’s architecture, is refreshingly clutter-free. Through the grounds, walkways link a set of three exquisite community pavilions. Free of fussy adornment, exterior surfaces of wood and brick respond authentically to the environment, and are expressed in a natural palette of charcoals, soft greens and earth tones. Vinterra is a contemporary classic, in tune with discerning new-century lifestyles. Encouraging ease and inspiring creativity, interiors start with floorplans that translate to generous inventive multi-level spaces that are infinitely flexible in both purpose and presentation. Everywhere you look, imaginative design exceeds expectations – from the impressive glassed-in entry way and staircase, to the oversized doors connecting to strongly conceived exterior spaces. Three- or four-bedroom floorplans can accommodate the Master suite on either the main or upper level. And if you’ve ever dreamed of a home theatre, personal gym or wine cellar, these optional luxuries can be integrated into your Vinterra home. TO FIND OUT ABOUT NEW LISTINGS AT VINTERRA BEFORE THEY HIT THE PUBLIC MLS, CONTACT: LOCAL:  604-764-1380 EMAIL:  TREVOR@THETOWNHOUSEGUY.CA

Niche: Townhouse 3039 156th ST, South Surrey / White Rock, BC

Stylish and discerning, you want a home that reflects your good taste. The residences at Niche (3039 156th ST, South Surrey / White Rock) feature quality finishes and stylish touches that speak of refinement, sophistication and class. Come home to spacious, innovative floorplans, individualized by your choice of two designer colour schemes. Wake up to breakfast in a kitchen with elegant stone countertops, classic shaker-style cabinets and an extra large single bowl undermount sink with polished hardware. Your professional series stainless steel appliance package, including a gas range, offers the perfect equipment for crafting gourmet meals, while a ceramic and glass backsplash adds a finishing touch of gleaming style. Inside your home, enjoy nine-foot ceilings on the main living level, wood laminate flooring and oversize windows with white wood designer blinds. Large, private patios and decks offer an ideal venue for an intimate outdoor dining experience. All homes have enclosed yards that extend your living area into the great outdoors. After work, relax in your ensuite’s luxurious soaker tub or take an energizing shower with a stainless rain showerhead. With custom vanities, side-by-side undermount sinks and stone countertops, your bathroom is a spa-like retreat where you can indulge in guilt-free pampering. Niche has a wide variety of thoughtful gathering places where a sense of community is easily established. There’s a residents’ lounge, where a full kitchen, barbecue and picnic areas are the perfect location for an al fresco meal with friends. Home at Niche means natural living in a community surrounded by a secluded park like setting. Hone your bird watching skills at the observation deck overlooking the creek or take a quiet stroll along one of the many walking trails nearby. TO FIND OUT ABOUT NEW LISTINGS AT NICHE BEFORE THEY HIT THE PUBLIC MLS, CONTACT: LOCAL:  604-764-1380 EMAIL:  TREVOR@THETOWNHOUSEGUY.CA

Wills Creek: Townhouse complex at 3109 161ST & 3122 160th ST in South Surrey / White Rock

Located in the heart of Morgan Creek (3109 161ST & 3122 160th ST, South Surrey / White Rock) these well designed townhomes include every detail. These homes boast Geothermal heating & cooling, Fisher Paykel stainless appliances, gas fireplaces, granite countertops, heated ensuite tiles, and interior design palettes from Ledingham Design Consultants. The 2,000 ft Creek Club features a state of the art fitness centre plus a pool and hot tub. . TO FIND OUT ABOUT NEW LISTINGS AT WILLS CREEK BEFORE THEY HIT THE PUBLIC MLS, CONTACT: LOCAL:  604-764-1380 EMAIL:  TREVOR@THETOWNHOUSEGUY.CA  

December, 2012: White Rock / South Surrey Real Estate Market Update

FRASER VALLEY REAL ESTATE SALES AT LOWER LEVELS IN 2012 (Surrey, BC) – Fraser Valley’s real estate market in 2012 will be remembered as the year buyers and sellers took a breather reflecting quieter sales, an average number of new listings and prices overall remaining flat. The president of Fraser Valley’s Real Estate Board, Scott Olson, says, “The last half of 2012 was like a Mexican stand-off. Buyers kept hoping for greater price drops while sellers who didn’t have to sell just took their home off the market rather than lower their price. “With the economy so stable, we’re not in a situation where people have to sell their home, so they’re not. It’s a very different market than in 2008 when listings were at an all-time high and sales were at historical lows.” The Board’s Multiple Listing Service® processed 13,878 sales in 2012 compared to 15,529 the previous year, a decrease of 11 per cent, while the number of new listings remained about the same – 31,009 in 2012 compared to 31,592 in 2011. Over the year, the number of active listings for buyers to choose from dropped by 3 per cent going from 7,399 properties in December 2011 to 7,187 in December 2012. Although 2012 ranks the second slowest year for sales in Fraser Valley since 2003, the volume of new listings finished in the middle of the pack. Scott Olson, says, “Inventory levels are down, which is a sign of a healthy market where insufficient demand leads to reduced supply. This is also keeping prices in most areas either flat or down only slightly.” In December, the benchmark price of a detached home in the Fraser Valley was $539,000, an increase of 1.2 per cent compared to $532,700 in December 2011 and a decrease of 1.0 per …