My real estate column in the Vancouver Sun featured property sales in downtown Vancouver, Kitsilano and North Vancouver.

Vancouver Sun January 14th, 2012

1704 – 550 Taylor Street, Vancouver

Type: 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom apartment
Size: 785 sq. ft.
B.C. Assessment, 2012: $498,000
Listed for: $499,000
Sold for: $490,000
Sold on: Nov. 30
Days on market: 42
Listing agent: Natalia Antosh at HomeLife Benchmark Realty
Buyers agent: Seth Baker at Royal LePage Westside

The big sell: Chinatown, with its unique Vancouver heritage, has a growing interest among buyers who enjoy the eclectic neighbourhood and access to downtown. Buyer’s agent Seth Baker reports that his clients grew up in the area, and having witnessed its ongoing evolution, were looking to return. This corner unit in the Taylor building impressed them with its 17th-floor panoramic vistas over Chinatown, the docks and the North Shore. In fact, every window has a view. Since its construction in 2005, the home had been totally redone with an upscale kitchen, track lighting and concrete floors. The dining room was built to entertain, with 7-by-17-foot dimensions that will accommodate “house-sized” furniture. There is a den, separate storage both inside and outside the apartment, and parking. The SkyTrain, Costco, Andy Livingstone Park, and Tinseltown are all within walking distance.

305 — 1425 Cypress Street, Vancouver

Type: 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartment
Size: 700 sq. ft.
B.C. Assessment, 2012: $392,500
Listed for: $409,000
Sold for: $410,000
Sold on: Dec. 5
Days on market: 6
Listing agent: Pamela Smith at Macdonald Realty
Buyers agent: Amanda Crosby at RE/MAX Select Properties

The big sell: Properties that come on the market in the Kits point neighbourhood usually attract attention because of their proximity to the beach, downtown and the amenities on Fourth Avenue. Listing agent Pamela Smith reports that the first — and only — open house that she held for this loft-style condo was packed with potential purchasers. A multiple-offer situation resulted in an accepted, subject-free bid slightly over the asking price. In addition to the location of the home, the main attraction was in the renovated interior. It has wall-to-wall California closets in the 14-by-17-foot mezzanine bedroom, two skylights, a remodelled bathroom with an extra-large soaker tub, undermount sinks, granite countertops, an open-plan kitchen with a centre island that also houses an electric fireplace built into the end-facing living room, a walk-in pantry, and new hardwood flooring and carpet throughout. The building is pet- and rental-friendly.

1159 West Keith Road, North Vancouver

Type: 5-bedroom, 5-bathroom detached
Size: 4,587 sq. ft.
BC Assessment, 2012: $1.123 million
Listed for: $1.188 million
Sold for: $1.125 million
Sold on: Dec. 14
Days on market: 78
Listing agent: Karim Virani at Virani Real Estate Advisors
Buyers agent: Carole Yang at Sutton Group – West Coast Realty

The big sell: This impressive Pemberton Heights view property was built in 1983 and renovated in 2007, presenting the owners with accommodation that can suit any living situation. The four levels hold a plethora of bedrooms and bathrooms, as well as two kitchens, a family room, office, storage room and separate living and dining areas, all finished to exacting standards. The uppermost floor has a modern open-concept kitchen with stainless steel appliances and custom cabinetry. The southern exposure and multiple decks ensure that all occupants can enjoy the views and the garden on the 50-by-126-foot lot. With a potential rental income of $5,000-plus per month, this could be a good investment opportunity. Pemberton Heights is an area of North Vancouver east of Capilano Road and south of the Trans-Canada Highway, with easy access to Lions Gate Bridge and numerous schools, parks and trails.

For the full story, please click on Real estate sales in downtown Vancouver, Kitsilano and North Vancouver.

Compiled by Nicola Way of BestHomesBC.com and AssignmentsCanada.ca.

Realtors – send your recent sales to nicola@besthomesbc.com
© Copyright (c) The Vancouver Sun

My real estate column in last weekend’s Vancouver Sun featured property sales in West Vancouver property sales in Vancouver, and property sales in Kelowna.

Vancouver Sun January 22, 2011

West Vancouver
6364 Argyle

Type: 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom half duplex
Size: 2,462 sq. ft.
B.C. Assessment, 2011: $743,000
Listed for: $780,000
Sold for: $765,000
Sold on: Nov. 17
Days on market: 10
Listing agent: Raymond Soden at New World Realty Ltd.
Buyers agent: Ryan Gibbons at Prudential Sussex Realty

The big sell: This custom-built, three level Horseshoe Bay home has a unique open-plan design with a sky-lit, double-height staircase that makes the home exceptionally light and bright. The large top-floor master suite has a walk-in closet, a renovated spa bathroom with soaker tub and separate glass tiled shower and — to add to the wow factor — a great room with space for a grand piano or office. The main floor offers floor-to-ceiling panoramic views of Howe Sound from the dining room, an updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances, a large balcony and a living room that opens on to a private garden. The lower level has two bedrooms, a full bathroom, office and laundry, and could be used as a nanny or guest suite.

Vancouver
1802 – 2688 West Mall

Type: 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom apartment
Size: 1,367 sq. ft.
B.C. Assessment, 2011: $1.187 million
Listed for: $1.498 million
Sold for: $1.46 million
Sold on: Nov. 5
Days on market: 7
Listing agent: Colette Gerber at RE/MAX Select Properties
Buyers agent: Sherry Si at Amex Sunrich Realty

The big sell: The aptly named Promontory, built by Polygon in 2005, has the distinction of being the most westerly highrise in Vancouver, located next to UBC’s Botanical Gardens. As residents of the campus know, the homes at UBC enjoy some of the best views in town. This unit is no exception, with an open-plan layout that takes advantage of north, east and southerly views. A large balcony provides an outdoor platform from which to overlook the water. Not only does this home have the less-common three-bedroom design; it is also a preferred end unit. Adding further appeal is a designer kitchen, rich hardwood floors, recessed lighting, an oversized tub in the spa-like bathroom and a natural gas fireplace that adds intimacy to the 20-by-12-foot living room.

Vancouver
301 — 310 Water Street

Type: 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartment
Size: 772 sq. ft.
B.C. Assessment, 2011: $451,000
Listed for: $419,900
Sold for: $419,900
Sold on: Nov. 9
Days on market: 46
Listing agent: Karim Virani at Virani Real Estate Advisors
Buyers agent: Jeff Poh at Coldwell Banker Westburn Realty

The big sell: According to listing agent Karim Virani, the buyer of this loft conversion in Gastown’s Taylor Building was attracted by the character of the building, the heritage of the area and the sympathetic restoration of the building. Loft-style conversions began in the former warehouse district of New York City and grew in popularity in the 1980s. Since then, they have spawned a new style of home for many city-dwellers and evolved from one big space with no storage to clearly delineated social and private spaces. They are personified by high ceilings, large windows and interior brick walls, and this unit is no exception. It features a juxtaposition of steel beams and reclaimed hardwood floors, and has black granite countertops and white cabinetry in the contemporary kitchen.

Kelowna
1305 Glenview Ave

Type: 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom detached
Size: 2,272 sq. ft.
B.C. Assessment, 2011: $461,000
Listed for: $525,000
Sold for: $519,900
Sold on: Dec. 14
Days on market: 60
Listing agent: Paige Guernsey at Coldwell Banker Horizon Realty
Buyers agent: Ellen Churchill at Coldwell Banker Horizon Realty

The big sell: This 2008 home had been featured in the fall edition of the 2010 Okanagan Home magazine and is loaded with high-end extras. It has stamped concrete flooring in the interior and on the exterior decks, vaulted, 10-foot ceilings, three fireplaces, bespoke cabinetry, large principal rooms (including a 9-by-16-foot kitchen with central island), an office, family room and a fully finished basement with wet bar. The private yard has an underground sprinkler system and is fully fenced. This property is in the Bridges at Glenmore Pond complex, which features custom-designed homes in Craftsman and Victorian styles. Okanagan Lake and downtown Kelowna are within walking distance.

Compiled by Nicola Way of BestHomesBC.com and AssignmentsCanada.ca.

Realtors – send your recent sales to nicola@besthomesbc.com
© Copyright (c) The Vancouver Sun

Read more: Recent real estate sales in West Vancouver, Vancouver and Kelowna.

My real estate column in last weekend’s Vancouver Sun featured property sales in Vancouver, property sales in Richmond and property sales in Prince George.

Vancouver Sun November 6, 2010

Vancouver
3206 – 1438 Richards Street

Type: 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartment
Size: 756 sq. ft.
B.C. Assessment, July 2010: $485,000
Listed for: $558,000
Sold for: $528,000
Sold on: Aug 27
Days on market: 30
Listing agent: Sue Johnson and Sarah Thompson at Dexter Associates Realty
Buyers agent: Maria Senajova at RE/ MAX Crest Realty Westside

The big sell: Not for vertigo-sufferers, this corner suite on the 32nd floor has a 270-degree view of all of Vancouver’s highlights. Situated in Concord Pacific’s Azura 1 building in the Beach Crescent area north of False Creek, it is the largest one-bedroom unit in the building. The layout allows for separate dining and living rooms, a breakfast bar, den, walk-in closet and in-suite storage and laundry. It has a modern, open kitchen with stainless steel appliances and granite countertops. Residents can enjoy access to the development’s Club Viva amenities, which include a pool, gym, billiards, theatre and library rooms, as well as concierge services and guest suite.

9351 Romaniuk Drive, Richmond

Type: 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom, detached
Size: 2,188 sq. ft.
B.C. Assessment, July 2010: $594,000
Listed for: $779,000
Sold for: $773,000
Sold on: Aug 21
Days on market: 78
Listing agent: Chris Chan at Regent Park Realty Inc.
Buyers agent: Samuel Toa at Royal Pacific Realty Corp.

The big sell: Built in 1980 in the Woodwards subdivision in central Richmond, this property is an east-facing home that has been extensively renovated, with a new roof, furnace, hot water tank, hardwood floors, appliances and granite countertops. Notable features include a stone surround fireplace, a single-car garage — there is parking for two additional cars — and a beautifully maintained garden. The home has a well laid-out floor plan, with the bedrooms upstairs and the principal reception rooms on the main floor.

4569 West 1st Ave, Vancouver

Type: 4-bedroom, 4-bathroom, detached
Size: 2,696 sq. ft.
B.C. Assessment, July 2010: $2.302 million
Listed for: $3.695 million
Sold for: $3.44 million
Sold on: Aug 7
Days on market: 171
Listing agent: Faith Wilson at RE/MAX Real Estate Services
Buyers agent: Lyn Harlton and Lorne Goldman at Macdonald Realty Ltd.

The big sell: The adage that “good things come to those who wait” is appropriate in the case of this three-level property: according to buyer’s agent Lyn Harlton, negotiations took place over several months. This character home is perched high above Jericho Beach and has views from all floors, as well as the rooftop deck. The interior has been selectively modernized and features a spacious living room complete with a cosy wood-burning fireplace, a separate, entertainment-sized dining room, a 16-by-13-foot master bedroom, a top-level private studio, and a one-bedroom nanny or in-law suite in the basement. Close to UBC, this is a premier Point Grey location.

4615 Freimuller Avenue, Prince George

Type: 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom detached
Size: 2,230 sq. ft.
B.C. Assessment, July 2010: $234,300
Listed for: $279,800
Sold for: $272,000
Sold on: Sept. 12
Days on market: 73
Listing agent: Dean Birks at Royal LePage Prince George
Buyers agent: Dean Birks at Royal LePage Prince George

The big sell: This home has been substantially remodelled and finished to a high standard. It consists of more than 2,200 square feet, with the floor plan split into four levels, providing a natural symmetry. The flooring is a mix of hardwood and ceramic tiles. There is a vaulted ceiling in the living room, a gourmet custom kitchen, a new roof and high-efficiency furnace, as well as vinyl windows. The basement has a separate entrance and has a family room, laundry and recreation room. There is also a detached garage and fully fenced yard. The home is within walking distance to schools; located in a greenbelt area and backs on to a park.

Compiled by Nicola Way of BestHomesBC.com and AssignmentsCanada.ca.

Realtors – send your recent sales to nicola@besthomesbc.com
© Copyright (c) The Vancouver Sun

Read more: Recent real estate sales in Richmond, Vancouver and Prince George

Just listed on BestHomesBC.com is a condo for sale in the Atelier on Robson in downtown Vancouver. This home has 2 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms plus a den and the apartment comprises 1,180 square feet.

The “03″ plan is a rare opportunity in the Atelier on Robson. A new landmark building in the heart of Vancouver.

Situated across from the Vancouver Public Library and off Robson Street with top quality finishes, the interior is designed by Robert Ledingham along with a fabulous floor plan which brings living in a downtown apartment to a different dimension.

The architecture takes into consideration the surroundings and the interior provides every need for the city dweller.

Two large bedrooms and a den. Two and a half luxurious bathrooms. An entertainment size living room and dining room with eating area or an extra flex place.

Atelier on Robson comes with 24-hr concierge, a fully equipped gym, a steam room, high security and is steps to EVERYTHING that Vancouver offers.

Please follow this link, Atelier on Robson condo for sale in downtown Vancouver, to view the property’s details and to contact the Realtor, Fioretta Wilinofsky of Sutton Group West Coast Realty, directly.

Just listed for sale on BestHomesBC.com is a luxury 2-Bedroom, 3-Bathroom Condo at The Fairmont Pacific Rim Estates in Vancouver’s Coal Harbour.

This is the most desirable property listed at The Fairmont. A stunning NorthWest corner residence with forever water and mountain vistas from this gorgeous 2-bedroom, 3-bathroom waterfront suite at the most luxurious and sought-after address in Vancouver, The Fairmont Pacific Rim Estates.

Luxuries include a chef’s kitchen with Sub-Zero, Miele, Italian cabinets, and a gas cooktop. The open plan layout is perfect for entertaining.

The views from the balcony will leave your guests speechless. Spacious bedrooms with large ensuite spa bathrooms featuring the most spectacular stonework in the city. Technology package upgrade includes touch panel and remote control electric Lutron blinds, lighting, music and television.

Two parking, storage and the best amenities in the city: pool, hot tub, sauna/steam, gym and 24-hour room service.

Please follow this link, Fairmont Coal Harbour Condo for sale, to view the property’s details and to contact the Realtor, Shaun Kimmins of Century 21 In Town Realty, directly.

Just listed on AssignmentsCanada.ca is a condo assignment in The Beasley in the popular Yaletown district of downtown Vancouver. This prestigious building, The Beasley, is located at the very centre of Downtown Vancouver at 888 Homer Street. This condo has floor plan A – one of the largest two-bedroom plans at 930 sq.ft. – and includes two bedrooms, a walk-in closet, a den, two bathrooms (one ensuite) and a balcony from which to enjoy some of Downtown Vancouver’s finest views.

Yaletown’s Beasley development represents the finest in Vancouver architecture, combining sustainability with contemporary design and unique features: Heated Tile Floors. Gleaming Hardwood. Stone Slab Countertops. KitchenAid Appliances.

This 33-storey condominium tower contains 211 units and seven levels of underground parking. The project also has a heritage building on the site “The Homer” built in 1913 (current location of the Homer Cafe) This will be transformed into a high end lounge and restaurant. The building is named after former Vancouver City Planner Larry Beasley. The project will be mixed use including the lounge & restaurant, four other commercial units on the ground floor of the Beasley Tower, and two floors for office space. The ground floor of the tower will have 3 elevators, a fully equipped gym, party room with a pool table, kitchen and dining room and a garden terrace. Also on the 8th floor will be a 2000 sq.ft. terrace dedicated to dogs’ physical fitness.

Please follow this link, The Beasley Yaletown condo assignment, to view the property’s details and to contact the Realtor, Darin Chamberlain of Sutton Group WestCoast Realty, directly.

Just listed on AssignmentsCanada.ca is this 2-Bedroom, 2-Bathroom plus Den prime corner view suite with an ideal private floor plan.

Fabulous location at Homer and Robson in the heart of Vancouver’s downtown district, this condo assignment is scheduled for completion at the end of May 2010.

Opposite Library Square and conveniently close to all the shops, restaurants and entertainment that this district enjoys.

These are stylish yet truly functional homes with European craftsmanship and truly fine materials like solid granite countertops, wood cabinetry and stainless steel appliances. An extra bonus is the sumptuous kitchens complete with ultra-modern appliances from Sub-Zero, Liebherr and AEG.

Please contact the Realtor for more precise information regarding this development.

Please follow this link, Downtown Vancouver Assignment, to view the property’s details and to contact the Realtor, Fioretta Wilinofsky of Sutton Group West Coast Realty, directly.

Just listed on BestHomesBC.com is an Executive townhome in The Eden by Bosa.

This stunning 2 level, townhouse (no street entrance) in Vancouver’s Yaletown district comes with a huge private 250 sq.ft. rooftop deck! The main level features an open living and dining area plus a gourmet kitchen with granite countertops, chocolate cabinets, portable island, gas range and BBQ balcony. Chocolate engineered hardwood flooring on both levels. Lower level showcases an office, full size washer/dryer, generous master bedroom offering enormous walk-in closet, immaculate ensuite bath with double sinks, soaker tub and separate shower.

Great spa-inspired recreation facility and guest suite with direct access from the unit. All this located on the best block in Yaletown with Emery Barnes Park and Choices Market at your doorstep!

Bonus 2 parking stall and storage.

Please follow this link, The Eden townhouse Yaletown, to view the property’s details and to contact the Realtor, Jules Seaman of Century 21 In Town Realty, directly.

Just listed on BestHomesBC.com is a stunning, luxury corner Sub-Penthouse in Vancouver’s popular Yaletown area with forever panoramic, unobstructed water, mountain and city views.

This is not your ordinary Yaletown 2-bedroom and 2-bathroom sky condo. From the moment you walk in the front door the quality and detail of the high end finishing is evident. From the custom gourmet kitchen, glass backsplash, stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, custom recessed lighting, under-mount sinks, fireplace, dark hardwood floors, 2 private terraces and the list goes on and on. All this located steps from shopping, restaurants and the water’s edge.

Solid building with a great reputation complete with concierge, 24-hr security, gym and guest suite. If you are looking to live in one of the best neighbourhoods in a home oozing with luxury then this is it!

Please follow this link, Yaletown Park II condo for sale, to view the property’s details and to contact the Realtor, Jules Seaman of Century 21 In Town Realty, directly.

Just listed on BestHomesBC.com is a beautifully bright SE corner unit in The Ritz in the Coal Harbour area of downtown Vancouver. One bedroom and den with excellent floor plan, quality finishes and fireplace, 9-foot ceilings, air conditioning and open balcony. Gourmet kitchen with gas stove, stainless steel appliances and bar counter. Excellent condition – has only been lived in for 6 months. Huge locker (#26 in Room 3 on P1), and parking #406.

“The Ritz” completed in 2008 and has concierge, pool, gym, sauna, steam room, hot tub, social room and yard area. Early possession possible, furniture optional extra. Close to coffee shops, seawall, Urban Fare, 7 Eleven, Shoppers Drugmart and Robson Street. Great home and great investment property!!

Please follow this link, Ritz condo Coal Harbour, to view the property’s details and to contact the Realtor, Christine Louw of RE/MAX Select Properties, directly.