Li's Blog

Feathers, not paws...a pet, just the same!

Sea to Sky Premier Properties (Salt Spring) — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 12:00:03 -0600

New friends....no, not the two footed kind (although those are always welcome!).

For several years, now, I've been the caregiver for a handicapped relative. They have finally had to leave assisted living, where they were able to be in their own space, and go into a care facility. Big changes, and difficult to digest consistently, though good that 24 hour care is available.

My discovery? The relative had a bird, a yellow and gold parakeet.

I'm an animal lover, though it's always been cats and dogs, never birds, and have rescued a lot of animals.

The bird and I looked at each other.

I asked around, to see if any bird lovers out there might like to adopt another. No takers.

So...you guessed it!

The bird is now sitting in my office, in a new cage, and I have a book on my desk titled Home Bird Care Guide. At night, I cover its cage, so if it hops around it won't set off the motion detector alarm at the office!

Have to admit, it's a cheerful sound and I might be imagining it, but it seems to pay attention to what I'm doing, and seems to be chirping welcome, as I walk into the office every morning.

Hmmm...do parakeets mimic sound? Have to investigate...

Meantime, am thinking of a name...Penny? Polly? Patty?

Will let you know.

Mid-November events, on Salt Spring Island....

Sea to Sky Premier Properties (Salt Spring) — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 11:24:45 -0600

November 15, 2009.

On Salt Spring today? Check out Fulford Hall for the great gift ideas...artists are there, with their giftcreations. Candles, Skincare products, Kitchenware, Luxurious body lotions, Kids' toys, Chic baby boutique...and more! 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. -- Shop Locally is the tag line (and support islanders and their home-based businesses). See you there!

Don't forget it's Jazz night at Moby's (7 to 10 p.m.).

Today, at 2 p.m., is also the last show of the Having Hope at Home play offering (at Mahon Hall). Enjoy this Community Theatre production.

Bach on the Rock is also today, at 2 p.m., at All Saints by the Sea...tickets from ArtSpring (250-537-2102).

Mark your calendars: Scrooge Meets the Duke is at ArtSpring Theatre, on November 21 (at 8 p.m.) and November 22 (at 2 p.m.). The Newman Family Players and Swing Shift present the Billy Strayhorn/Duke Ellington "Nutcracker Suite" and selections from "Christmas with Scrooge". A fun event!

November 17 to 29th, catch the interpretation of five dynamic Salt Spring artists, of "interiors". At ArtSpring's Bateman Gallery, the five artists are: Louise Goodman, Megan Manning, Gillian McConnell, Hamza bin al-Wathan, and Stephanie Denz. Opening reception, with artists in attendance, on the 20th, from 5 to 8 p.m. Such talent on our Island!

The annual Christmas Light Up Decorating Contest is on Friday, November 27th. Categories are Best All Round, Best Use of Lights, Most Creative, Best Use of Materials. Salt Spring Businesses step forward every year, and it's always fun to see the creativity that goes into the windows we walk by, every day.

So many great businesses in the Village...have you been into Laura Roveda's Windflower Moon lately? Lots of super gift ideas, here, for your nearest and dearest, and also treasures for your own enjoyment. Windflower Moon's logo is: Gifts for the Spirit. Check out the Zen alarm clock, the crystals, the gift books, the specialty jewellery, the clothing, the cards...etc.

A softer time of year, a time to slow a little, and to notice the treasures we rush past in the busy summer months...our friends and neighbours are on display, in the Village...enjoy!

This Monday will be my last Monday Morning show on the community radio station (www.cfsi-fm.com) -- streaming audio off the website is the way most people listen, as the 107.9 fm only works if you're in the range of the single tower on Island. I've really had fun doing the two hour show, every Monday, and so appreciated the people who agreed to get up early and come in to be interviewed (most chose the 8 to 9 a.m. time slot!). I had help with the production side (I'm not a techie, and the station makes the presenters also do the "mechanics" of the broadcast) was Mark Voyce, co-owner of Bocados Bistro,in Grace Point Square. Mark has film experience, and is taking on a position with the production of a new film, so will be off island during this time. That means I will be losing my valued "side-kick", and techie guy. Seemed a good moment to bring the Morning Show to a close, and let someone else step to the plate of keeping the Island and the talented Islanders "front and centre".

New owner at Cafe Talia, takes over this next week...if you've been on the Island for some time, you will remember Louis Renaud, and Luigi's. Louis is returning to the food biz, and plans to retain the charm of Cafe Talia. Welcome him, next time you're by for cappucino.

Enjoy the Island's "winter pleasures".....

Getting ready for the holiday season...lights are important!

Sea to Sky Premier Properties (Salt Spring) — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 14:32:38 -0600

Holiday decorations and lighting are starting to show up in my area.

No shopping malls where I live, so it's up to the individual retail merchants to do the decorating.

At this darker time of year (on the shortest day of the year, which isn't that far off, it's dark here by 4:30 in the afternoon), it's a pleasure to see the lights showing up.

We would have to invent a celebration for this season, if it wasn't already in place...to spill light into the darkness is a message of hope to all who pass by.

Our local weekly newspaper usually has a "theme", and the best decorated window at a store, or a bank, or an office, gets the prize. One year, the local credit union, who had a lot of separate offices facing the sidewalk, decorated each one like a Victorian shop window...the butcher, the baker, the dressmaker...they deserved to win! Such creativity bounces out at the passersby, and, again, brings pleasure to all.

It can be lonely at this time of year, for those who are by themselves, with only memories of "fuller" celebrations. To enjoy the lights, to walk the Village and admire the windows...it's a simple thing, but can be very meaningful.

In these more uncertain times, with stress and duress visiiting many people afflicted by the economic downturn, it's essential to remember to practice the simple things, and to light up that darkness that lurks in December.

To remember, too, that the foodbank and the hamper program from the grocery stores, and the gift tree from the bank (pick a suggestion, from the tree, and buy a gift for that person...boy of 8, girl of 11...that kind of thing), all need our extra help at this time of year.

Charles Dickens understood the point of the season...instead of watching a film or cartoon of same, why not read the original, and pick up a book or find it at the library. A Christmas Carol was written by Dickens at a very troubling time in his life, when he desperately needed money...out of his adversity came a classic with an uplifting message.

Remember to light the lights!

Transition times...a little of this/a little of that...

Sea to Sky Premier Properties (Salt Spring) — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 18:58:14 -0600

In a transition time, there is "everything" occurring.

Difficult to sort out the trend, then, when there's a whirling cloud that spits rain, sometimes, and other times parts to let in some rays of sunshine.

I read in media reports on real estate, in my larger region, that it's the best it's been in several years, that sales are flying and multiple offers are the "norm". Then, it turns out that all the activity is in the first time buyer category, or investor buyers, looking for good rentals. There's a price ceiling, then.

I also learn, by digging a little deeper, that secondary home/discretionary markets haven't experienced the city/primary residence dynamics. One can put a second home on hold, in a worrying market moment.

As usual, the media isn't quite "right" in its reporting. This could be a result of the reporters not being realtors, and so they don't think to differentiate the layers of the business. Busy? Great! Let's go to press!

The difficulty with this broad sweep is that it makes sellers in the higher end wonder why they aren't finding themselves rushed off their feet with viewings! It also makes it difficult for the realtor to explain the changed circumstances since August 2008, and why price reductions need to be in their minds, as they assess the marketing of their unique luxury category properties.

In rural markets, the same dilemma...the realtor has to explain why the city busyness isn't transferring to the retirement/recreational markets, with the same briskness.

Transition times see everything, remember, and eventually it evens out to a broader and more consistent rhythm.

Good that there is an uptick, no matter where it's seen. Many buyers remain nervous about acting, and so that more euphoric media reporting might be the thing that propels action, from all those "should I wait? should I act now?" fence-sitters.

I see them there, rocking back and forth on that pointy picket fence of indecision!

If anyone mentions the inflation word, will they topple?

9 + oceanview acres await your pleasure, on Salt Spring Island!

Sea to Sky Premier Properties (Salt Spring) — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 10:41:32 -0600

Here's an exceptional holding property, for your investment protection.

Close to Ganges and to Fulford Villages, and to lake and ocean beach accesses, and to park hiking/walking trails, this 9+ acre gem enjoys a wonderful serenity, and excellent all day/year round sun exposure.

Sunsets from here, too!

Ocean, islands and mountain viewscapes at your doorstep.

Private!

Drilled well developed, driveway roughed in...this is definitely a "best buy" opportunity on beautiful Salt Spring Island!

Bring your architect, and let's walk this one soon. Zoned for main home, separate guest cottage, and separate studio.

In an area of fine homes...enjoy!

www.liread.com/1491.htm

Thoughts, as year draws to a close....

Sea to Sky Premier Properties (Salt Spring) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 17:12:32 -0600

There's something about the shortening days, with light disappearing by 4:30 p.m., in just a couple of weeks time, as we march to the shortest day of the year, that makes one ponder the recent past.

So many changes were thrust on everyone, it seems, in a span of about 15 months.

Bank failures, job losses, disappearance of venues that one would have expected to go on "forever", bailouts that make currencies appear valueless, wars that erupt throughout the world, collapse of housing markets with subsequent losses of homes...stability is a word that appears to have evaporated on the winds of shift and change.

So important to remember that we are larger than our surround sound. The roller coaster of life brings ups and downs. We are tested at every turn, especially in our digital on/off, act/react world. Barely time to assess, to ponder...immediate response is often required of us.

It sounds like a platitude, but it is the benchmark of all the great philosophies of the world...our attitude shapes our responses and therefore creates our reality.

As we go into our holiday season, with friends and family at our sides, if not in reality then in thought, let's also ponder how we may go forward into the coming New Year, with a sense of purpose and an expectation for "good".

It's not a "pollyanna" response. It is sending out into the universe a positive energy. That old adage that "what goes around, comes around" is a truth. We get back what we send out.

Change brings opportunity, if we are open to "see" it, and to welcome it. It's coming anyway...as Heraclitus noted, back in Ancient Greece, "change is the only constant".

Good to welcome it with positive response.

Visit Li Read at her Salt Spring Island office...Li has the info for the Southern Gulf Islands!

Sea to Sky Premier Properties (Salt Spring) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 11:50:59 -0600

If you find yourself in "downtown Ganges", on special Salt Spring Island, please drop by my "seaside village" office and say hello! Full real estate information package awaits you...real estate supplement, maps, detail sheets of all listings, from all companies, and weekly updates on what's for sale / what has sold.

My office is located at the corner of Lower Ganges Road (the main street) and Rainbow Road, and there is parking behind, off Rainbow. I have a great view of the Harbour, and the Boardwalk, and Ganges Marina.

With access to all listings, from all companies, I look forward to showing you all properties in your preferred category. It's important to me that buyers who work with me "see it all", so that they can make that all important "informed decision". I work for the best interests of my clients.

In this secondary home / discretionary marketplace area, which describes all Gulf Islands, including the largest and best serviced one in the Southern grouping (Salt Spring Island), it does take time to decide "for" both an Island and then a property on that chosen Island. I do take time, with my client base, as it's a serious and an important purchase. There's always time to '"get it right".

Potential impact of the Islands Trust bylaws on a property, water quantity and quality, if on a well, sun exposure, sense of quietness, proximity to amenities, zonings (agricultural land reserve?), etc. -- all questions that require answers. Also important to know market trends, past trends and projections for the future...again, questions deserving of thoughtful answers. A real estate purchase is an investment.

Now associated with Sea to Sky Premier Properties (head office is based in Whistler, and there are auxiliary offices in West Vancouver, in Squamish, in White Rock, in Victoria, and I am a branch office on Salt Spring Island), I am the Managing Broker of the Salt Spring office.

Sea to Sky Premier Properties is affiliated with Christies Great Estates, which opens up a global/international market to the Gulf Islands, through my office's presence here.

Sea to Sky Premier Properties is also a member of the Luxury Real Estate group, another international venue. As an individual, I was invited to be a Regent of the Luxury Real Estate group, and so act in an advisory capacity.

Real estate as an industry has seen significant changes over the past few years; an outcome of the "internet revolution", of course!

Up to the mid-1970s, companies were in charge of information, and realtors were considered employees. After the mid-70s, it became an agent centric model of business, and this was put in place by Dave Liniger of Re/Max. Many other such "agent centred" companies sprang up. With the advent of the internet, however, the old referral system offered by such business models changed.

Suddenly it's a consumer centric model of business. It has been reported that 89% of all real estate transactions start with an internet search. The consumer goes direct, now, seeking information about an area, about listings in that region, about realtors to work with. Lately, in Canada, the mls system, which is there for the benefit of agents with listings, is under pressure to allow any seller to put up their property offering on that system, for a flat fee. This kind of shift from agent to consumer control is profound, and will leave everything "changed".

A recognition of such important shifts, and a desire to be of service to my client base, is what created my wish to affiliate with the Sea to Sky Premier Properties group, as I continue my real estate career. It's important to be in a position to allow innovation, and partnerships with offices, not necessarily a part of a franchise model, is, I think, the future of this industry.

The internet, which erased time and geography, did create the "global village" forecast by Marshall McLuhan, back in the 60s and 70s. We haven't really yet seen the outcome of the internet revolution, but it's definitely already clear that the consumer of any service is in charge. That includes the service of real estate.

This control by the consumer of a real estate offering means that the role of the realtor has changed, too. No longer the expediter of knowledge, the realtor has become more of an interpreter. An editing function, for all that raw data!

How may I help you to discover and to purchase your special Salt Spring Island and Southern Gulf Islands property?

I look forward to your call! "Your Interpreter Connection for Salt Spring Island and the Southern Gulf Islands...Li Read."

Mayne Island oceanfront point, 64+ acres...totally unique!

Sea to Sky Premier Properties (Salt Spring) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 11:44:35 -0600

Here's an exceptional offering...perfect as an extended family retreat, or as a corporate retreat!

Subdivision may be possible, on this oceanfront point of land. Current owners do not wish to subdivide, however, and are offering a splendid 64+ acres, as they have enjoyed it since the early 1950s.

Cedar, fir, hemlock old growth forest on this parcel, plus arbutus and garry oak groves.

Predominantly lowbank oceanfront, 1000s of feet of same, with wide sandy bays, smaller coves, and exceptional land. Walk your own trails!

Very softly developed...current owners have camped here, and preserved the essential natural allure of the land.

Excellent sun exposure (east/south/west), with superb ocean, islands, and mountain viewscapes. Very private and quiet...like your own private island, and yet it is on Mayne Island, a ferry accessed opportunity, and so enjoys easy access/all amenities nearby.

Meadow area, heirloom orchard, historic cabin on approximately 7 acres that has been "opened up" (in the 30s??).

In the heart of the best protected boating waters in the world! Bring your architect, and walk this one soon...it is unique and irreplaceable!

www.liread.com/1479.htm

November 11th...Remembrance Day, in Canada...

Sea to Sky Premier Properties (Salt Spring) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 12:56:03 -0600

November 8, 2009.

This coming Wednesday is the November 11th recognition of those who have served their country, in the military, who went to war when it was required, and in many cases, did not return.

Those who survived gather to remember, and civilians do the same.

No soldier seeks war.

I've often felt that we are "prisoners of our time".

The First World War, referred to at the time as The Great War, was meant to be the war that would end all wars. It did sever a way of life, completely, and the ensuing despair did bring forth a hedonistic party animal lifestyle in the 20s, often described as a time of largesse.

The 30s, for those who study history, was marred by another time of societal severing...the Great Depression created dissolution of families, businesses, lifestyles.

The Second World War, in the forties, required enormous sacrifices, once again. For those of military age, or living in a country that was suddenly occupied by another country, it wasn't necessarily a "choice" to act in a particular way.

That is what I mean by being a "prisoner of one's time". Things afoot, on a large scale, can certainly get a response from us, but we didn't necessarily create the conditions or put something in place. We are, though, always, in charge of our attitude to events that occur in our finite time span.

No matter what we may think of military activities, no matter what we may feel about evocative words such as "war" and "peace", we can all remember and respect courage.

People in their time, and we don't always fully understand previous time periods from the platform of "today", reacted with patience, with courage, with selflessness, with caring...it is always important to remember valour, an old-fashioned word, yes, but a very real thing.

Locally, the Cenotaph service in Ganges Village, at Centennial Park, is a way to observe sacrifice and valour, and the individual actions that helped to create our way of life, today. If you are able to attend, be there, and show your support.

Another moment in our community's annual life.

Things happpening on Salt Spring Island, early November...

Sea to Sky Premier Properties (Salt Spring) — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 18:06:08 -0600

November 7, 2009.

Tonight, at Fulford Hall, a fun evening of hot Cuban rhythm and dance with the Jose Sanchez Cuban Party, part of the fund-raiser for Terralingua, awaits your pleasure! Traditional Mexican food plus a silent auction of 50 items supplied by local businesses. Call 250-538-0939 for more information!

Sunday, November 15th, shop locally and support islanders and their home-based businesses -- 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Fulford Hall. The perfect gifts, for family and friends, await your browsing pleasure.

All Saints by the Sea is showcasing the talented Chris Jarrett, in a concert that begins at 7:30 p.m., tonight. Tickets are available at Salt Spring Books. Classical to Jazz is showcased by this unique pianist.

November 13th is the date when Seonagh Odhiambo will be on island, offering a movement development workshop for dancers and non-dancers. For more information about this event and the overall project in bringing artful attention and healing intent to St. Mary Lake waters, check out www.islandinstitute.com (the project will evolve over the coming year, with a grand presentation in June, 2010).

Terrific that Richard Murakami was honoured, recently, as Citizen of the Year, on Salt Spring Island -- very well deserved award!

Don't forget to listen into my Monday Morning radio show, on the new community station. If you're in tower range, you can catch it at 107.9 fm, or, if not, it's streaming audio off the website (www.cfsi-fm.com). It's live, I interview lots of Islanders, and Mark Voyce, of Bocados Bistro, in Grace Point Square, is my co-host/producer. Any glitches get to stay, as it's not taped! 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. every Monday. Thank you!

Slow return to seller's market conditions? Depends on low inventory levels/fear of cash becoming the next bubble?

Sea to Sky Premier Properties (Salt Spring) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 11:09:08 -0600

November 5, 2009.

It remains oddly busy, for the time of year!

July and August were very "flat", and tourism involved mainly daytrippers out of Vancouver and the Lower Mainland, according to the Chamber's tourist count.

Although Vancouver reported bidding wars, and diminished inventory, this did not happen in Victoria or on the Gulf Islands or on Vancouver Island or on the Sunshine Coast. This vibrant action was mainly in the lower end residential options, and involved first time buyers, attracted by lower prices and low interest rates, and by investors looking for good rental properties, perhaps seeking "passive income" opportunities.

In a recent newsletter by a well known real estate "guru", in the Lower Mainland, it was noted that 90% of immigration to B.C. goes to Vancouver, with only 4% going to Victoria. Interesting! Surrey and Coquitlam municipalities are looking for expansive options, and are considering allowing developers to create triplexes/fourplexes, where only single family homes were being allowed.

In some recreational/secondary home areas, fractional ownership options are being looked at. It is a way of allowing increased useage, although not increased density (on the Gulf Islands, the Islands Trust prohibits growth).

Creative ways to allow for influx of population. Yes, it's been a downmarket, and for some areas this slowdown actually began in 2006. Yes, it may be slowly crawling out of this. Economic drivers both cause hesitation/fallback, and also propel (fear can be a driver, and in this case, it's the fear that cash may be the next bubble).

Important to be paying attention to "everything" right now, and to be thoughtful, not just reactive, to what we hear.

Also important to practice the attitude of gratitude. We are so lucky that we live in this coastal area, as it is truly beautiful, does offer a sense of the natural world that is missing in so many parts of the globe, and it still offers a "safe haven" lifestyle.

Meantime, in the short term, it's busying up and we need to pay attention to economics, and not to the weather/time of year...it's irrelevant! If sellers were despairing, that time may be over...action is occurring. Inventory remains "thin", and so buyers, (if they haven't acted already), may find that their window of opportunity, on price points, has evaporated.

Stay tuned!

Salt Spring Island "best buy" oceanfront!

Sea to Sky Premier Properties (Salt Spring) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 11:02:32 -0600

Here's a great opportunity to own a premier waterfront property on special Salt Spring Island!

A "west coast contemporary" design, which offers a main home, currently divided into two sections, with owner occupier in main space, and a tenant in the guest/inlaw "suite", adjacent. Asking: $998,000 (Can. $$).

Vaulted ceiling, spacious oceanside decking, feature fireplace, upgraded kitchen and bathrroom, open plan lifestyle with expansive views from all prinicipal rooms.

Attached double garage. Sunny (s/sw/w exposures), panoramic ocean and island vistas, easy access to beach, private property, and in a quiet area of fine homes, close to all amenities.

The plus? A separate garage/workshop, with guest studio above, with its own driveway entry. On community water system, close to park hiking/walking trails, and in the "warm swimming water" part of the island!

This is truly a best buy for a quality oceanfront property, on the "year round lifestyle" Gulf Island...Salt Spring Island.

www.liread.com/1474.htm

Deflation? Inflation? Who has the crystal ball?

Sea to Sky Premier Properties (Salt Spring) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 12:26:17 -0600

Throughout Canada's main cities, there has been an upsurge in sales action, year to date, in what I would term "low end residential" -- in other words, property that would be in the realm of a first time buyer, attracted by low interest rates, and also by an investor (looking for viable rental options, for passive income opportunity). Undeveloped land, commercial items, and higher end/luxury properties did not easily find action. In rural areas, predominantly secondary home/discretionary regions, this action also did not take place. Such places can be put "on hold" during insecure market moments.

Yes, there is a lot of money, resting in cash, with nervous potential buyers adopting a wait and see attitude. On the one hand, the deflatiion argument has people wanting to remain in cash, so as to benefit from further bargains, particularly in the "move up" properties. I heard from one seller, not in my area, who noted that his property had been shown 17 times in the past five months, all qualified potential buyers, and only one party had "acted" (purchased another home). That left the remaining 16 purposely "waiting"...all of them, according to the realtor, felt that prices would continue to go down, and so they were waiting to benefit from their "clout" as potential cash buyers, when they felt things had "really" bottomed.

Newsletters, read by serious people, who did not experience significant losses in Sept/Oct/Nov. of 2008, and who do have cash holdings, project that there will be further severe drops in real estate valuations. One such newsletter, by a respected "deflation sayer", promises there could be further declines of up to 40%, in some areas. This, after the 20 to 30% declines already experienced, in the past year. While this kind of prediction is targeted to a U.S. readership, we cannot assume we will escape anything, just because we live on the Canadian side of the border. In erasing geography and time, the internet evolved the "global village", and so we are all interconnected.

On the other hand, the inflation scenario notes the continuing collapses of banks and financial institutions, plus the need of large "global" banks for more government help (the Swiss USB, the U.K. Northern Rock and Scottish Bank, among such), which implies further printing of paper currencies, more bailouts, diminishing value of cash holdings...impending hyperinflation as an end result. This kind of fear would seem to propel such potential investor/buyers back into good real estate hard asset holdings. Such, though, could be condos in Vancouver or townhouse in Victoria, or...not, then, necessarily a second or third home property, in an area such as the Gulf Islands or Tofino/Uclulet or Whistler or Osoyoos, or...such discretionary areas can continue to be put "on hold".

However, that very "offset" characteristic of a discretionary area, just a little apart from the potential chaos of a city, if things unravelled, might drive people towards places like the Gulf Islands, with its cap on growth, or to Tofino/Uclulet (same issue of limited inventory), etc. Security, a "safe haven" search, would make such places of more interest than a city market would deliver.

Hmmmm...still an either / or proposition, with no middle ground / no grey area in sight...either deflation/collapse or inflation/erosion of value of cash/currency.

There we all are, then, still sloshing around in the pool of uncertainty, with no clear indication of where to splash forward....towards the deep end or the shallow? Where did we say we could find that crystal ball?

Important, more than ever, to be thoughtful, to practice our peripheral vision (tunnel vision gets us nowhere!) so we can see some movement on the edges that could aid us, to practice our editing function (have to turn all that raw data into real information), and to pay attention to our creative inspiration. There are no real experts...no one "knows". We have to look to ourselves, here, and make some decisions about paths for ourselves.

As Heraclitus reminded us, back in Ancient Greece, the only constant in life is change.

Private Island, close to Victoria, awaits your pleasure...a true estate!

Sea to Sky Premier Properties (Salt Spring) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 14:27:39 -0600

Here's a treasure of a private island, on the doorstep of Victoria, B.C.

Close to all amenities, and yet in its own serenely private world, this beauty offers a wonderful main home, with two ensuite bed sitting rooms, a library, games room, country kitchen with oceanside breakfast area, plus formal dining, entertainment size living, indoor pool, nanny suite, formal entry, marble floors....

There are four separate guest cottages, three of them arranged around a small lake, with the fourth enjoying ocean and island vistas.

A caretaker's residence, dock, tennis court, plus outbuildings (workshop, generator storage, etc.). A lovely blend of easy-care landscaping, forest, and meadow.

This five acre island enjoys beaches, incredible views of islands, ocean, mountains (including the majesty of Mt. Baker), and is connected to power (via cable, from nearby Vancouver Island). A boathouse structure, plus parking stall, is at Canoe Cove, a private marina.

Fly in to Victoria Airport, take a 7 minute taxi ride, and be at your dock. Another 8 minutes, via boat, and you're home! Or, arrive by B.C. Ferry, and it's another short 7 minute drive to get to the marina/your dock slip. Arrive by private boat, or create a helipad...lots of room!

24 hr. notice for all viewings. Don't miss this opportunity!

www.liread.com

November market thoughts...for Salt Spring Island & Southern Gulf Islands....

Sea to Sky Premier Properties (Salt Spring) — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 12:36:36 -0600

November, 2009.

Although the calendar says that Winter officially begins on December 20th, most of us would agree that it's "here", already!

In the last weeks of the year, one tends to look both back and also forward.

The meltdowns that characterized most of 2008, unleashing economic duress and fear, folded into 2009.

Perhaps, looking back, one could decide that the worst / most fearful months were September 2008 to February 2009.

Locally, on Salt Spring Island, we saw an upsurge in real estate sales around mid-February, but only in the "low end residential" category.

There was no interest in higher end residential options (on Salt Spring, that would be anything over 800,000), and no interest in undeveloped land opportunities. Commercial options were also ignored.

The buyer was either a "first time" person, or an investor looking for a rental investment.

With continuing low interest rates, coupled with sellers in a mood to consider offers, post credit crunch/meltdowns, it appeared a time to buy.

Along with that perception, underneath the slow/consistent sales, the listing inventory remained stable. Most owners preferred not to be sellers, unless they "had to".

Between February and April, there was a further substantial price reduction delivered to a seller at the point of an offer.

Then, between May and August, as the low inventory cleared out, and little new inventory came onstream, sellers were slowly able to get closer to their list price.

In city markets, in the same low end residential category, bidding wars developed due to this low inventory issue. On a Gulf Island, which is a discretionary area, bidding wars are very rare -- sellers getting list price might be a Gulf Island route!

Prices, though, according to appraisers, had reduced between 12 and 20 percent, between 2008 and 2009, depending upon type of property involved.

The Tourist office in Ganges reported that the majority of visitors to the Island, in the summer months, were "day trippers".

That meant they weren't staying at B and Bs, at resorts, renting kayaks, or scooters, or cars, weren't eating dinner in restaurants, or looking at real estate. Yes, they may have picked up information, for a later date, but they weren't viewing. Most of the daytrippers were from Vancouver/Lower Mainland.

Then, around third week in September, there began a flurry of action in the very categories that had been so "flat" -- higher end residential, commercial, and undeveloped land options. This was as sudden an emergence of activity as had been the early Spring flurry.

In spite of time of year/uncertainty of weather, it has become busy. Is this the beginning of the move out of cash positions and into safer hard asset investments? Weather is irrelevant; economics may be the driver.

During the past two years, the arguments for deflation and inflation were evenly balanced.

With the consistent printing of paper currency, as bailouts continued, with nothing backing the paper, is the fear of inflation scenario winning out? Are the whispers of interest rate increases a sign of this worry?

The lack of sales action in the higher end properties has resulted in many huge price reductions, in an effort to bring forth buyers.

If those resting heavily in cash decide to return to hard assets, then there are attractive "deals" out there.

Is this what's creating activity right now, so late in the year? The concern over inflation? Fear creates hesitation, but it also propels -- if this is what's underway, a flight to safe havens, to preserve capital, then this activity will continue into early Spring, and beyond.

It is interesting to note that all categories of properties/price points are now finding activity, even though so late in the year.

The other Southern Gulf Islands have noted slower sales activity than has been experienced on Salt Spring.

Vancouver Island, Sunshine Coast, Gulf Islands have not experienced the briskness seen in Vancouver or in Victoria. They are primary residence/city markets.

Secondary home/discretionary markets, such as the Gulf Islands, can be put "on hold", in uncertain times.

The Islands Trust, in place since the mid-1970s, capped growth on every Gulf Island. No matter the real estate trend in play, then, there will always be a low inventory of available properties, as a result of the government's Trust zoning restrictions, to cap growth.

Already, Salt Spring Island and the Southern Gulf Islands are pretty close to "max", re development.

The Islands offer a wonderful lifestyle, with privacy but not isolation. It is buyers that set markets, not sellers or realtors.

In creating an enclave area, with their government mandated growth controls, via the Islands Trust, a recipe for price escalation, over time, was set in place in 1974.

The economic meltdown created a small moment in time for a buyer to maintain a modicum of control over the sales process.

If the inflationary scenario is the one that comes forth, then that "buyer's market" moment may be evaporating. The Islands Trust cap on growth created a protected investment area, with their "no more" policy.

The next three to four months will be interesting, indeed, as we seem to be balancing on a rocking/rolling ball, again.

More info about opportunities on Salt Spring Island and the Southern Gulf Islands? I welcome your call!

How may I help you to discover your Island dream?

There is always opportunity!

Hallowe'en and on...events on Salt Spring!

Sea to Sky Premier Properties (Salt Spring) — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 11:44:14 -0500

October 31, 2009.

Hallowe'en! Free hotdogs and hot chocolate at the Ganges Firehall...thanks to Country Grocer. Fireworks take place at Coast Guard dock, thanks to generous Island supporters, and the Firefighters.

Earlier, though, it's the Olympic Torch, and the celebration at Centennial Park, 1 to 4 p.m.

Remember to turn your clocks back tonight, when you go to bed -- tomorrow, we're back to Standard Time!

Tomorrow, too, at the Harbour House Hotel, 6:30 p.m., there's a fundraiser to benefit the Institute for Sustainability Education & Action (I-SEA), and the Salt Spring Organization for Life Improvement & Development (SOLID). Over 80 items from Salt Spring and beyond, plus a veggie appetizer feast, provided by Harbour House, and music by Stephanie Rhodes and friends. Presentations, too, on the exciting projects underway by both I-SEA and SOLID. Salt Spring entrepreneurial spirit at work!

I know it hasn't turned from Fall into Winter, calendar wise (I see it there, marked as Dec. 20th), but most of us feel that Hallowe'en ushers in a different weather pattern/"feel" to the Island. Now that Standard Time is back, it will be dark by 4:30 -- make sure you pay attention, when driving home from work, as some pedestrians do not wear reflective armbands or other clothing "decals".

Eat your fruit and veggies, exercise, get fresh air, remember to wash your hands/don't touch your eyes, nose, mouth, do not shake hands (smile, nod, bow), and be well. Yes, the H1N1 "flu is around, but prudent health habits will keep you safe...that includes staying home, if you don't feel well. We need to practice positive living elements, and that means we don't go out and spread our germs around!

This Monday is the community radio morning show that I do with Mark Voyce, of Bocados Bistro...we have Jan Rabson as our guest, and you can tune into us from 7 to 9 a.m., every Monday, different guests each week, at: www.cfsi-fm.com or, locally, at 107.9 fm. Jan has a passion for radio, and I'm looking forward to his effervescent spirit!

Olympic Torch comes to Salt Spring, on Hallowe'en Day...

Sea to Sky Premier Properties (Salt Spring) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 11:22:42 -0500

October 30, 2009.

Tomorrow, along with being Hallowe'en -- be careful driving, as there are ghost and goblins out there, trick and treating! -- it's also the day that the Olympic Torch comes to Salt Spring.

Festivities take place in Centennial Park, from 1 p.m., with musical entertainment at 2 p.m. Free pizza, hot chocolate, juice, plus Free Draws for great prizes from Salt Spring merchants, plus face painting, tatoos, giveaways.

At 3:20 the Torch arrives by floatplane, from Lake Cowichan, and will make the rounds of downtown Ganges, before being driven to the Vesuvius Ferry, and back onto Vancouver Island.

This is a stellar event that is a part of all B.C., even though the venue is in Whistler and Vancouver, for the actual Olympic events.

We all live in such a beautiful part of the world, whether on a Gulf Island or on Vancouver Island, or on the Sunshine Coast. Same with Victoria and Vancouver -- it's the "coastal grid", and it's full of beauty!

This is a celebration, that the Winter Olympics will take place in B.C.

Let's turn out, and support those who are carrying the Torch for our area.

See you there!

Catch Raffi's CD release tonight, on Salt Spring....

Sea to Sky Premier Properties (Salt Spring) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 11:14:55 -0500

October 29, 2009.

Tonight, at ArtSpring Gallery, catch Raffi's new CD release celebration. Called "Communion", it has the terrific sing along/anthem "Sustainability". Doors open at 6:30, there are light refreshments, and the "opening" starts at 7 p.m. See you there!

The contemporary dance show, Light & Metal, plays ArtSpring on Nov. 5th. Call ArtSpring ticket office (250-537-2102), for more details! This is one not to be missed!

A framing experience needed? Pegasus Gallery Framing, at 111 Robinson Road, is at your service! Conservation, appraisals, storage, gallery, supplies, shipping...and picture framing are their Art Services.

Monday, November 9th, enjoy Connie Kaldor, with opening act of K.C. Kelly & Sandi Profitt. Presented by Salt Spring Folk Club, at Fulford Hall, doors open at 6:15 and show starts at 7 p.m. Soups, Suppers & Sweets by Fiddlehead Catering. Tickets at Acoustic Planet, Salt Spring Books, Stuff & Nonsense. Wave, if you see me!

Music & Munch, on Nov. 4th, will continue the tradition of dedicating November's program to observing Remembrance Day, through music and poetry. Music for the free event begins at 12:10 p.m. Tickets for the optional lunch following are available at the door, before the start of the program. It's at All Saints by the Sea, of course!

November 7th finds Paxton Bachman at Moby's from 8 to 11 p.m. Mark your calendars. Tonight, though, at Moby's, catch Blues from 8 to 11 p.m. November 1st, it's Jazz, from 7 to 10 p.m.

Salt Spring Centre of Yoga, on Monday, Nov 2nd, will showcase David Hickey's performance of a crystal bowl and planet gong concert. Show time is 7:30 p.m., and tickets are at the door.

Salt Spring Community Theatre presents a comedy, Having Hope At Home, with opening night on Friday, November 6th, at Mahon Hall, show at 8 p.m. It runs Nov. 7, 13, 14, at 8 p.m., and there's a matinee on Nov. 15, at 2 p.m. Enjoy!

Lots of Hallowe'en events (for kids of all ages!). Finish up in Ganges, for the fireworks display!

Clinton Fearon plays ArtSpring on Nov. 6th, with show starting at 8 p.m. Known as a living legend of roots reggae music, this should chase away any impending winter blues!

And yes, you can catch the community radio station via streaming audio at: www.cfsi-fm.com (if you can get the signal, where you live, it's at 107.9, on your fm dial).

Remember to welcome the Olympic Torch to Salt Spring, on the 31st -- celebrate in Centennial Park at 1 p.m., with entertainment at 2 p.m. and at 3:20, the Torch arrives on Island.

Did somebody say this was the "off season". Hmmmm.....

Retirement gem awaits on Salt Spring Island...

Sea to Sky Premier Properties (Salt Spring) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 11:50:21 -0500

Here's a sweetie of a renovated cedar cottage/home, in the popular "Vesuvius area", on Salt Spring Island -- close to tennis, to theatre, to lake and ocean accesses, and to park hiking/walking trails, and to all services/amenities.

Private and quiet lot, easy - care property, with an attached studio structure (artist? home occupation?). Room for RV parking, too!

Some ocean glimpses, plus sunsets from the spacious decking!

Bring your ideas, and continue the work begun by this owner. On community water.

A best buy opportunity on special Salt Spring Island...summer/weekender or retirement, or expand the home and create your dream.

The choice is yours!

www.liread.com/1558.htm

Hallowe'en is almost here...fireworks on Salt Spring!

Sea to Sky Premier Properties (Salt Spring) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 12:16:34 -0500

Hard to believe that it's almost Hallowe'en!

On Salt Spring, the great volunteer firefighters put on a fireworks display, down by the Coast Guard dock, and it's well attended!

In earlier years, there used to be a smaller version down at Fulford Harbour, too. I remember meeting some buyers, who were driving off the ferry with a van load of their furnishings, to move into their new home. Their new property was way up at the top of Dukes Road, and that particular Hallowe'en there was dense fog. One could hardly see five feet in front of the car.

They slowly followed me, along Fulford-Ganges Road, and it was "pea soup" plus night (they caught the last ferry to the Island). Just as we slowly went around the corner and over the bridge, across Fulford Creek, the fireworks went off. One couldn't see the people at ground level, but there was an opening in the fog higher up, so the bursting pinwheels could be seen emerging from the gloom.

By the time we crawled to the property (fog so thick that they couldn't move their things in, so had to spend night at motel), they were totally enthralled with Salt Spring...thought the fireworks were especially for them! They are still owners, here, and still at the same place. Nice!

This coming Monday, between 7 and 9 a.m., it's the Monday Morning Radio Show with Li and Mark. We've had some great guests, and learned a lot.

Finally, it's possible to phone in...mmmm...that's going to make it much more impromptu! Mark and I didn't realize that the phones were now live, this past Monday show, so when lights started to flash, we couldn't figure it out at first...someone was phoning in, though, to say they had figured out where I was standing, and so the first contest is over. The prize this time was dinner for two, at a romantic restaurant.

If you can't catch the show on 107.9 fm, then try the streaming audio at www.cfsi-fm.com -- this next week, the mystery guest understands the charm and the power of radio, so I expect to learn lots! Would like to be a guest? Give me a call!

Yesterday we had sun, rain, hail, wind, mild, cold...all in one day. Definitely marching to winter! Still lots of events happening around the Island, though. The Market in the Park officially ends this weekend. The Tuesday market ended last week. Craft fairs are gearing up for the Christmas Season. Theatre and music offerings at ArtSpring, evening courses at night school, live music at various restaurants on weekends, and it's also fun, at this time of year, to do day trips to Victoria or to mid-Vancouver Island, or to Vancouver, or to check out another Gulf Island..

Always very special, though, to come home to Salt Spring!

www.liread.com

Private island paradise, just off Sechelt, B.C.

Sea to Sky Premier Properties (Salt Spring) — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 11:25:34 -0500

Looking for a private island paradise in the heart of the best protected boating waters in the world?

Here is a gem for your consideration. Approximately 33 acres, forest/pasture, home, outbuildings, barn, caretaker's accomodation...close to Sechelt and the Sunshine Coast communities, an easy private boat trip from Vancouver, a world class city.

Arrive by helicopter or floatplane, too.

Sunny, private, with extravagant views of ocean, islands, mountains.

The perfect retreat property, close to all amenities, and yet in its own pristine world. Enjoy!

www.liread.com

Salt Spring is part of the International Day of Climate Change...plus other events...

Sea to Sky Premier Properties (Salt Spring) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 11:08:47 -0500

October 23, 2009.

Tomorrow is the International Day of Climate Action. Salt Spring is joining this event. Over 3000 actions will take place in over 158 countries. It will be the most widespread day of environmental action in the planet's history. A Climate Change Rally is planned for 3 p.m. at the Gulf Islands Secondary School gym. If able, people are being urged to join the Critical Mass Bike Ride, starting from Fulford and from Vesuvius, to and around Ganges, then out to the GISS gym. Join the ride at any point! En route to the school, watch for the markers that will show the new shoreline, with the rising sea levels. Raffi will be present, and will close the school program with his new work, Sustainability, from his new CD: Communion. Another event is an all day workshop, sponsored by the Gulf Islands Alliance, called "Rebuilding Resilient Island Communities in Time of Transition". Many more events taking place...check the Driftwood for more details. Be there! It is up to us.

The Salt Spring Rotary Club is presenting their annual Hallowe'en Casino & Spooktacular Bash, featuring Uncle Jim's Big Blues Band, 8 p.m. to 1 a.m., at Farmer's Institute, on October 30th. Costume prizes, and late evening snack table. Tickets in advance only. Mark your calenders!

Note, too, that Moby's will present Rock: Paxton Bachman, on Nov. 7 (8 to 11 p.m.). This Sunday, the 25th, Moby's offers Jazz, 7 to 10 p.m.

Catch Susan Aglukark, at ArtSpring, on October 31st, show starting at 8 p.m. Call ArtSpring's ticket office (250-537-2102).

Don't forget to be in the Village, too, for the spectacular fireworks display, on Hallowe'en night -- starting at 8 p.m., at the Coast Guard Dock. This annual Hallowe'en tradition has been made possible, this year, by the community's continued support of the fire fighters" corn booth, at the annual Fall Fair. Country Grocer is donating the hot dogs and hot chocolate!

Hallowe'en is a day when we admire the creativity of the grocery store employees around town, those in banks and the credit union, and also the wait staff at restaurants...they always get into the fun of the day, with alarmingly creative costuming! Who does their makeup, anyway?

Yes, it's the "off season", but lots to do/to enjoy.

Oceanview, architect designed home, close to Village...enjoy!

Sea to Sky Premier Properties (Salt Spring) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 14:52:29 -0500

Looking for an architect-designed home (by H. Schubart, who studied with Frank Lloyd Wright), lovingly upgraded by current owner (only second owner -- you can see this is a loved property!), and with a dramatic panoramic vista of ocean, islands, mountains?

Two bed/two bath "West Coast Style" home, with open plan living/dining, galley style kitchen, dramatic feature stone fireplace in living.

Private acreage, close to Village and to Sailing Club.

Separate guest "suite".

You will love this beauty! Ready to just move into, and to enjoy.

www.liread.com

Radio show...community voice for Islanders!

Sea to Sky Premier Properties (Salt Spring) — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:23:07 -0500

October 19, 2009.

Monday morning radio show again, today.

I do this every Monday, between 7 and 9 p.m., with Mark Voyce (co-owner of Bocados Bistro).

It's a mix of music, community updates, interviews with Salt Spring Islanders -- to date, have had Tim Cahill talk about emergency preparedness, and the importance of setting up neighbourhood groups. We also had David Young, a very well known designer/his company is international, come in and talk about his kinetic installation at a U.S. Mall. Bruno Gonzalez, who runs Rendezvous Cafe, with Brigitte, popped by to speak about the importance of "teroir" in French wine-making, and the differences between the North American and the French approach to same. Maureen Moore, who is the on-island representative for Raffi's Child Honouring Centre project also came by, and introduced the recent fundraiser/nine writers speaking about childhood experiences event. Lisa Sliwowska also came by, and spoke about her Open Door interior design company, and her thoughts on making a space a "home". Today, it was Garth Hendren, who is also the CRD representative on Salt Spring (an elected position), and he spoke about his interest in textiles and his collection of same. He's agreed to come back, as we wanted to explore the path leading off from this, about the mingling of art and economics. More later!

This is community radio, and it is live. If you can catch it locally, it's at 107.9 on the fm dial. If not, try the website (www.cfsi-fm.com) and streaming audio.

Every Monday, it's the "Potpourri with Li" two hour show, and Mark Voyce is my producer.

No, it's not about real estate...we all have day jobs, and most of us love them/are passionate about same (I know I am!), but I really want to introduce the exceptional Islanders I've been lucky to meet, over the years, so that all Salt Spring knows them, too!

If you'd like to be included, please just email or phone me. I know it's early, but it's fun, and you get to choose some music, too! (I know, I know...I'm stuck in that 70s time tunnel).

www.liread.com

liread33@gmail.com

Oceanfront beauty, dock potential, on Salt Spring Island...

Sea to Sky Premier Properties (Salt Spring) — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 14:44:59 -0500

Here's an exceptional oceanfront opportunity on special Salt Spring Island! Private, quiet, sunny (s/sw/w -- sunsets, here!), "point" of land, with easy access to crushed shell/sand beach (oceanside deck with firepit, for cosy evenings, under the stars!).

Heirloom orchard, mainly level property, appealing courtyard/garden entry (enjoy your morning coffee, here). Formal entry/foyer opens to tranquil living (feature fireplace) and oceanside dining. Country kitchen, with access to oceanside decking (dine alfresco).

Master sitting with dressing room and superb ensuite arrangement, in its own private "wing". Library/den, guest bedroom, full bathroom, spacious laundry and mudroom/entry, office complete the main level. Attached double garage.

Garden level offers media/games room area, plus bedroom and bathroom. The plus? Detached oceanside studio -- an artist's delight!

Mooring buoy in place; foreshore licence, too -- build your dock and keep your boat at home.

This is truly a very unique oceanfront property, in a premier area of Salt Spring Island. Enjoy!