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Strawhomes Blog

Greater Vancouver real estate insights, market updates, and guides

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Win Multiple Offers And Bidding War, Vancouver Real Estate
Tips

Win Multiple Offers And Bidding War, Vancouver Real Estate

When I first started helping home buyers in Vancouver's real estate market in 2003, I thought the highest offer always won. But after watching countless multiple offer situations unfold, I realized that dealing with multiple offers is far more complex than simply offering the most money. If you're b

Richard Morrison
Is Vancouver a Friendly City?
Tips

Is Vancouver a Friendly City?

Are you considering making a move to the beautiful city of Vancouver? It's no secret that Vancouver is one of Canada's most popular destinations for new homebuyers. But what about the culture and atmosphere of this bustling metropolis? Is Vancouver truly a friendly city? If you've been considering m

Richard Morrison
famous people in vancouver
Trends

Famous People in Vancouver

Are you interested in learning more about the famous people who call Vancouver home? As an experienced realtor living here for 30 years in Vancouver, I can tell you that this beautiful city is filled with amazing talent. From actors and musicians to athletes and business moguls, there are countless

Richard Morrison
How do I protect my home sale from Shadow Flipping?
News

How do I protect my home sale from Shadow Flipping?

Vancouver's shadow-flipping has been a hot topic in the media in British Columbia, Canada. But are you at risk? This guide explains the facts. You may be wondering how to protect your home sale from Shadow Flipping, a practice that has made headlines across Metro Vancouver. Shadow flipping is the pr

Richard Morrison
AR and VR real estate
Trends

5 Ways AR & VR Can Reshape Real Estate

Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), Mixed Reality (MR) are a lot helpful to many industries but one, in particular, Real Estate. The latest innovations in Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) technology are changing how real estate properties are designed, bought, sold, and mana

Richard Morrison
5 Richest Parts of Vancouver Neighbourhoods
Tips

5 Richest Parts of Vancouver Neighbourhoods

Are you looking for the perfect neighbourhood to call home? Look no further! Vancouver is an amazing city with a wide selection of vibrant, bustling neighbourhoods. Whether you prefer the trendy shops and cafes of Mount Pleasant or the serene parks of Kitsilano, there's something for everyone. With

Richard Morrison
Buy a House or Rent in Vancouver
Tips

Buy a House or Rent One in Vancouver: Which is the Better Option?

Deciding whether to buy a home or rent is a major financial decision and the choice depends on your situation, lifestyle, and long-term goals. Both options have their pros and cons. Take a look at prices in your neighborhood and consider full ownership costs, such as taxes, insurance, and maintenanc

Richard Morrison
How to Sell Your House in Vancouver
Tips

How to Sell Your House in Vancouver: The Ultimate Guide

When I first helped a client list their East Vancouver bungalow back in 2003, they were convinced they'd get top dollar within weeks. The home had been in their family for decades, and they'd heard all the stories about Vancouver's red-hot market. But after 47 days on the market with only three show

Richard Morrison
how safe is vancouver
Tips

How safe is Vancouver? The Largest City in British Columbia, Canada

Vancouver is generally considered a safe city, but a few things should be considered, especially if you are a female traveler. Though crimes and scams do happen, Vancouver is not particularly dangerous, and you are unlikely to experience pickpocketing or a scam. Nonetheless, you should use common se

Richard Morrison
This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is 25393427_web1_20210104-BPD-business-open-dec21.20.bcg_-1024x683.jpg
News

Real Estate Trends to watch for as BC Reopens

It's clear that the British Columbia real estate market has been booming over the past year. We've seen significant increases in home sales and prices since the pandemic started in March 2020. As a growing percentage of the population is vaccinated and more people are being tested positive for COVID

Richard Morrison
top real estate investments vancouver
Tips

Vancouver Real Estate: Investment Properties and Market Overview

When I first stepped into Vancouver's real estate investment scene back in 2003, I thought the market was already at its peak. Fast forward to today, and I've watched countless clients build substantial wealth portfolios in this dynamic city—despite initial skepticism about affordability and market

Richard Morrison
Vancouver Home Staging
News

Home Staging Vancouver: How to Stage Your Property Without a Huge Expense

Home staging is the process of enhancing the appearance of a property to make it more appealing to prospective buyers. BCREA suggests that you focus on the appearance of the living room, kitchen, and master bedroom and outside curb appeal. I have personally helped hundreds of clients to stage their

Richard Morrison
Are Hong Kong Residents Moving to Vancouver & buying real estate?
Home

Are Hong Kong Residents Moving to Vancouver & buying real estate?

Are Hong Kong Residents Moving To Vancouver & Buying Real Estate? Are Hong Kong residents moving to Vancouver and buying real estate? It's a question that has been on the minds of many, as more people are leaving Hong Kong in search of a better life. As an experienced Realtor, I'm here to provide in

Richard Morrison
leasehold prepaid nonstrata property
Tips

99 Years or Bust: Should You Buy a Leasehold Property in Vancouver?

Life is full of tradeoffs. If you want a bigger home and ownership in a great neighbourhood, it will cost more. But if you buy leasehold prepaid nonstrata property or a leasehold strata lot, you can save big and get the house or condo of your dreams! Read More: Guide to buying a condo . […]

Richard Morrison
airbnb regulations vancouver
Buyers

Vancouver Airbnb Rules: Understanding New Short-Term Rental Rules 2026

When I first started advising clients about the short-term rental market in Vancouver back in 2003, the landscape looked completely different. Property owners could list spare rooms, secondary suites, or entire investment properties with relative ease. But after witnessing the dramatic shift in shor

Richard Morrison
Costs of Buying a Home in BC
Tips

Costs Of Buying A House in BC – Home Buyer Closing

When I first helped a young couple navigate their first property purchase in Vancouver, they thought they'd saved enough for the down payment. But after we tallied up everything—from notary expenses to insurance premiums to unexpected levies—they realized they'd underestimated their total budget by

Richard Morrison
Can I afford a home in Vancouver BC?
Tips

Can I actually afford a home in Vancouver?

The housing market in the Greater Vancouver area is notoriously difficult to navigate. Prices have skyrocketed since the housing pandemic hit BC and are not promising for those who want to purchase a home in the city. It is generally assumed that you should be a millionaire to buy a house in Vancouv

Richard Morrison
How Expensive Is It To Live In Vancouver, BC?
Tips

Just How Expensive Is It To Live In Vancouver, BC?

Vancouver is a visual marvel, and it’s nestled between waters clear as glass and snow-topped mountains. If you can never decide between the ocean and the mountains, then this might be somewhere you want to live. Nearly everyone worldwide knows about Vancouver homes for sale and that they sell for

Richard Morrison
condo fees strata fees
News

Strata Fees And Condo Maintenance Fees in BC – A Guide

When I first started looking at condos in Vancouver, I thought strata fees were just a simple monthly payment for building upkeep. But after diving deep into BC's strata property market and talking with dozens of condo owners, I realized the truth about these fees is far more nuanced than most peopl

Richard Morrison
BC Real Estate Commission Calculator in Vancouver – Our 1% fee.
Tips

BC Real Estate Commission Calculator in Vancouver – Our 1% fee.

When I first started helping clients navigate Vancouver's real estate market, I thought commission rates were set in stone. But after working with hundreds of buyers and sellers across British Columbia, I realized the truth about realtor fees is far more nuanced than most homeowners imagine. If you'

Richard Morrison
pros and cons of owning a condo in vancouver bc
Buyers

Pros and Cons of Owning a Condo in Metro Vancouver

Are you considering buying a condo in BC Canada? After helping hundreds of buyers navigate Metro Vancouver's real estate market over the past decade, I can tell you that condos represent one of the most attractive entry points into homeownership—especially for first-time buyers facing Vancouver's no

Richard Morrison
Advantages of Buying an Old Home in BC Canada
Buyers

Advantages of Buying an Old Home

Do you want to buy an old house? Old homes have character and advantages. As a real estate expert , I'll explain the advantages of buying an older home. Buying an old home has many benefits, from cost savings to historic preservation. Let's examine their benefits! From my personal experience, cost s

Richard Morrison
How to Sell a House to a Friend in Canada
Buyers

How to Sell a House to a Friend in Canada

Selling a house to a friend is difficult. Selling your home to a friend involves many factors beyond money. Selling your house to a friend in Canada can be easy with some planning and knowledge of Canadian laws and regulations! I'll explain how to sell your house to a Canadian friend in this article

Richard Morrison
Buying a House Jointly With Parents in Canada
Buyers

Buying a House Jointly With Parents in Canada

Buying a house  is a major life choice. It involves complex legal processes, financial commitments, and other factors. So if you’re both Canadian, buying a house with your parents is even more complicated! We have all the information you need to navigate this tricky process. This article discusses t

Richard Morrison
Buying a House While Separated in Canada
Buyers

Buying a House While Separated in Canada

When Sarah walked into my office last spring, her hands were trembling slightly as she clutched a folder of paperwork. "I found the perfect house for me and the kids," she said quietly. "But I'm still legally married. Can I even do this?" It's a question I've heard dozens of times throughout my 15+

Richard Morrison
Non Arm's Length Real Estate Transactions Explained
Buyers

Non Arm's Length Real Estate Transactions Explained

Hi there! Are you buying or selling property? What is a "non-length arm's transaction"? Don't worry—I'll help. I'll explain how non-length arm's transactions could affect your real estate deal in this article. Quick Takeaway: A non-arm’s length transaction in real estate occurs when buyers and selle

Richard Morrison
How Can I Buy a House For My Parents in Canada?
Buyers

How Can I Buy a House For My Parents in Canada?

Good day, dear readers! We are sure you are here because you are looking for a step-by-step guide on how to buy a house for your beloved parents. Buying a house for your parents is such a touching and meaningful gesture – why not give them the stability of owning their own home? You […]

Richard Morrison
How to Buy a House With Multiple Owners or Friends
Buyers

How to Buy a House With Multiple Owners or Friends

When my client Sarah told me she was buying a house with three of her college roommates in Vancouver, I thought she was crazy. "You're going to co-own property with three other people?" But six months later, after helping her navigate the process successfully, I realized something important: buying

Richard Morrison
How To Buy A House From A Family Member in Canada
Buyers

How To Buy A House From A Family Member in Canada

Purchasing a home from a relative can be an excellent way to climb onto the property ladder. But navigating the legal and financial complexity requires preparation.  Key Takeaways Let's start with an overview of the key steps and considerations: This may seem daunting, but being informed at every st

Richard Morrison
how to negotiate when selling a house
Sellers

How to Negotiate a Home's Price as a Home Seller

When I first started working with sellers in Metro Vancouver's competitive real estate market, I watched countless homeowners leave tens of thousands of dollars on the table. Not because their homes weren't valuable, but because they didn't understand the art of negotiation. After helping hundreds o

Richard Morrison
How to Make an Offer on a Pending Sale
Buyers

How to Make an Offer on a Pending Sale

You’ve found the perfect house and you can already imagine yourself living there. But, when you check out the listing, it says “pending sale.” Is all hope lost? Not necessarily! Making an offer on a pending sale can be tricky but if done correctly, you could find yourself in your dream home sooner t

Richard Morrison
Can You Put An Offer In On More Than One Property
Buyers

Can You Put An Offer In On More Than One Property In BC?

Buying a house is never easy, especially when you're juggling multiple property interests. In British Columbia (BC), it's  legally possible  for homebuyers to  place an offer on more than one house simultaneously. Yes, you can put offers on more than one property in BC, Canada, but it carries legal

Richard Morrison
Dates In A Real Estate Offer In Vancouver BC
Buyers

Dates In A Real Estate Offer In Vancouver BC, Canada

When I first started helping buyers navigate real estate transactions in BC, I thought dates were just administrative details: pick a day, sign the paperwork, move in. Simple, right? But after witnessing dozens of deals fall apart over misunderstood timelines and watching first-time home buyers scra

Richard Morrison
How To Buy A Home In Vancouver
Buyers

How To Buy A Home In Vancouver – What They Dont Tell You

When I first helped my client navigate the Vancouver real estate market, she thought the process would be straightforward. But after three months of house hunting, multiple offer situations, and unexpected closing costs totaling over $30,000, she realized buying a home in Vancouver is far more compl

Richard Morrison
Pros and Cons of Buying a Single-Family Home in BC
Buyers

What Are the Pros and Cons of Buying a Single-Family Home in BC?

Buying a single-family home in British Columbia offers privacy, land ownership, and long-term appreciation potential. However, high purchase prices, property taxes, and maintenance costs increase financial risk. Market volatility and stricter mortgage qualification rules in BC further affect afforda

Richard Morrison
pros and cons of rent to own homes in Canada
Buyers

Rent-to-Own Homes in BC: Pros & Cons of Rent to Own

When I first started working with clients struggling to break into BC's housing market, I thought rent-to-own arrangements were just a creative financing gimmick. But after helping dozens of families navigate these agreements over the past decade, I realized the truth about rent-to-own homes is far

Richard Morrison
Can Work Permit Holders Buy Houses in Canada
Buyers

Can Work Permit Holders Buy Houses in Canada?

Can I buy a house in Canada on work permit? Canada's red-hot housing market has left many potential homebuyers priced out. In response, the federal government enacted a two-year ban prohibiting most foreigners from purchasing residential property, effective January 1, 2023. But the devil is in the d

Richard Morrison
What is a good salary to live in Vancouver BC?
Tips

What is a good salary to live in Vancouver BC?

Are you looking to move to Vancouver BC? If so, it’s important that you understand what a good salary is for the area. Knowing this can help ensure that you will be able to afford the cost of living in one of Canada's most beautiful cities. As an experienced real estate agent, I have some […]

Richard Morrison
Demand for Smaller Condos is Growing in US & Metro Vancouver Canada
News

Demand for Smaller Condos is Growing in US & Metro Vancouver Canada

The Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation has found troubling data that shows that our housing markets in Canada are shrinking, as our population continues to grow. Because major city centres like Vancouver homes for sale and Toronto will not be back to affordable levels, many Canadians are floc

Richard Morrison
Is Now a Good Time to Buy a House During A Recession?
Buyers

Is Now a Good Time to Buy a House During A Recession?

When the news headlines start screaming about economic downturns and recession fears, most people's first instinct is to slam on the financial brakes. I've watched countless potential homebuyers sit on the sidelines during uncertain economic times, convinced they're making the smart move. But here's

Richard Morrison
Aboriginal Title & Fee Simple Land Cowichan Tribes in B.C.
Home

Aboriginal Title and Fee Simple Land Cowichan Tribes in BC

I've been a Vancouver Realtor for over 20 years. I've closed deals worth over $230 million. I've navigated every kind of market condition you can imagine. But nothing in my career prepared me for what happened on August 7, 2025. That day, a BC Supreme Court judge delivered an 834-page decision that

Richard Morrison