about nanaimo: Why it makes sense to buy real estate in Nanaimo - 04/13/14 09:32 AM
Why it makes sense to buy real estate in Nanaimo
Now, is the right time to invest in real estate in Nanaimo. I'd like to share with you why I believe the time has never been better to buy real estate here in Nanaimo.
Nanaimo is poised for growth.  I believe this to be the case for the following reasons:
1.  Vancouver, our neighbour across the strait, has one of the most expensive housing markets in the world.  When I see what people are paying for older, small and somewhat dilapidated homes in Vancouver, I often think about what the same amount of money … (0 comments)

about nanaimo: Understanding Property Taxes In Nanaimo - 10/21/13 08:52 AM
Understanding Property Taxes In Nanaimo
Like the old saying goes, you can't escape death or taxes.  And since you're reading this, let's talk about property taxes in Nanaimo.
With a few exceptions, here's how our residential property taxes work.
In 2013 the Nanaimo City Council determined that the residential tax rate needed would be a factor of 9.1135 for every $1000 of value assessed by BC.  So if your home has an assessed value of $500,000 then your municipal tax rate would be $500,000/$1000 x 9.1135 or $4,556.75.
Note that this is the City tax only.  Nanaimo also collects taxes for … (0 comments)

about nanaimo: Six Common Questions About Secondary Suites In Nanaimo - 10/17/13 09:39 AM
Six Common Questions About Secondary Suites In Nanaimo
In previous posts I've covered legal and authorized suites, so let's wrap up this 'suite' discussion by answering some frequently asked questions about Secondary Suites.
What is a 'secondary suite'?
A secondary suite is a self-contained unit within your home or within an outbuilding that is clearly part of your home.  It can't have more than two bedrooms and one cooking area and it is intended as a residential accommodation for relatives or not more than two guests who aren't related to you.
Where are secondary suites allowed?
You can have a secondary … (0 comments)

about nanaimo: Legalized Suites In Nanaimo - 10/16/13 07:18 AM
Legalized Suites In Nanaimo
Last time we discussed just what an Authorized Suite is, and today I wanted to discuss "Legalized Suites".
In order for a secondary suite to be considered 'legalized' all suites constructed after February 7, 2005 must comply with the Zoning Bylaw and the BC Building Code in order to be legal.  
Secondary suites are defined as:
“One or more habitable rooms, but not more than two bedrooms and one cooking facility, constituting a self-contained unit with a separate entrance, but which is clearly subordinate to the principal dwelling, for the residential accommodation of: one or more … (0 comments)

about nanaimo: What Is An Authorized Suite in Nanaimo? - 10/16/13 07:00 AM
What Is An Authorized Suite in Nanaimo?
Nanaimo is such a popular location almost year-around that many savvy homeowners create secondary suites as short-term vacation rentals.
Doing this brings in some extra income, helps defray the monthly mortgage and also gives you a chance to meet new people from around the country and the world.
However, there's a right way and a wrong way to set up your secondary suite and today I wanted to discuss just what an 'Authorized Suite' is.
First, the bad news.  If you've got a secondary suite that was constructed before 2005 it's going to be … (0 comments)

about nanaimo: The Nanaimo Relocation Guide - 10/15/13 06:33 AM
The Nanaimo Relocation Guide
Are you thinking about moving to Nanaimo? I was in your shoes in 2007. I had so many questions about Nanaimo real estate and neighborhoods, the Nanaimo job market and how the Nanaimo schools ranked.
It turns out that Nanaimo is everything we had hoped it would be!  Our move went smoothly and our family adjusted quickly to our new city. You can do it too.
The Nanaimo Relocation Guide has been designed for anyone considering a move to the area.  It is a great source of information on Nanaimo including:

 Education choices
 Dining, shopping & entertainment
 Arts & … (0 comments)

about nanaimo: The Quick Guide to Local Churches and Places of Worship in Nanaimo - 08/07/13 02:59 AM
The Quick Guide to Local Churches, Temples and Places of Worship in Nanaimo
Finding your spiritual home when moving to a new place is yet another aspect of relocating and buying a house. In Nanaimo, you’ll find local churches, mosques, temples, and meeting places for all types of faith groups and communities.

Church Directory — a listing of over forty churches, all denominations
Nanaimobahais.org — serving the Bahá'í Faith community in Nanaimo
The Islamic Centre of Nanaimo — mosque serving Muslims of Nanaimo
Gurudwara Miri Biri Darbar — temple serving the Sikh community of Nanaimo
Nanaimo Hindu Cultural Society — serving … (0 comments)

about nanaimo: Relocating Pets: A Guide to Nanaimo Vets, Dog Parks and Pet Stores - 08/07/13 02:46 AM
Relocating Pets: A Guide to Nanaimo Vets, Dog Parks and Pet Stores
Are you moving to Nanaimo with a pet in tow?
Our pets are family members too and making sure they are happy in their new home helps with the transition. You need to know where to find the local vet, the animal hospital for emergencies, off-leash dog parks and pet supply stores.
Remember, all dogs must be on a leash in the City of Nanaimo with the exception of designated off-leash areas and private property.
Nanaimo Vets Nanaimo Veterinary Hospital
Island Veterinary Hospital
Petroglyph Animal Hospital
Chase River Veterinary … (0 comments)

about nanaimo: 10 Things to Do in Nanaimo--Your All Season Playground - 08/02/13 08:57 AM
10 Things to Do in Nanaimo--Your All Season Playground
No matter what the season, we`ve always found things to do in Nanaimo. In the spring, summer and fall, we stay outdoors as much as possible, taking advantage of hidden walking trails and secluded beaches, boating the Gulf Islands, and fishing. And because we love swimming, we always make time for a float down the Nanaimo River on a smokin-hot summer day.
In the winter, some of our Nanaimo activities head indoors, but we're still active. Even though our mild climate means we can play outside all year, things like the … (0 comments)

about nanaimo: What’s the Weather REALLY like in Nanaimo? - 07/14/13 08:22 AM
What’s the Weather REALLY like in Nanaimo?
So you’re moving to Nanaimo.
Everyone who lives there tells you how fantastic the climate is. Even Environment Canada says Nanaimo has one of the comfiest climates in Canada.
You say: “Yeah, yeah…but what’s the weather REALLY like in Nanaimo?”
I can honestly say the reports are true. The weather is mild year round. A few snowy days in winter, pleasantly warm in summer. We get the requisite west coast rain but that’s part of life here. Unlike other areas of the country, Vancouver Island stays lush and green in all seasons.
We get to play outside … (0 comments)

about nanaimo: Getting an Education in Nanaimo—a Shortlist of Nanaimo Schools - 06/24/13 06:36 AM
Getting an Education in Nanaimo—a Shortlist of Nanaimo Schools
For parents, educational opportunity is one of the most important factors to consider when buying a new home.
What are the schools like? Where are they? What are the opportunities for post-secondary education?
Believe me, I’ve asked all these questions. With two kids, I’ve graduated many times:  from elementary,  high school and now university, right here in the Nanaimo area. I can vouch for the excellence of the programs in Nanaimo schools and the variety they offer students.
Public Elementary Schools
School District 68 (Nanaimo-Ladysmith) serves about 14,000 students in Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Lantzville, … (0 comments)

about nanaimo: 11 Top Picks for Dining in Nanaimo - 06/19/13 03:28 AM
11 Top Picks for Dining in Nanaimo
When we first moved to Nanaimo, I can’t tell you how pleased (and relieved) I was to find so many great options for eating out.  Who doesn’t like to chuck the oven mitts and let someone else do the barbequing for a change? I know I do!
Lots of savoury choices mean I keep everyone’s taste buds happy. Brunch on Mother’s Day, coffee and muffin with a friend, treat night with the family, fine dining on the waterfront—Nanaimo has plenty to offer.
For the widest selection of restaurants, check out Downtown Nanaimo. Here, … (0 comments)

about nanaimo: Where to Find the Best Arts and Culture Highlights in Nanaimo - 06/19/13 03:18 AM
Arts and Culture Highlights in Nanaimo
When you don’t feel like kayaking hiking, swimming or biking, you can always check out Nanaimo’s thriving arts and culture scene.
Since we moved here, Nanaimo has really come into its own, attracting more and more big city events like live theatre and concerts. Artists and music venues thrive in downtown Nanaimo where the studios live side-by-side with businesses and restaurants.
Click here for a complete calendar of events
Nanaimo Arts Centre
At the heart of the performing arts in Nanaimo is the Nanaimo Arts Centre. Located on Commercial Street, the Arts Centre is home … (0 comments)

about nanaimo: Top Spots for Shopping in Nanaimo - 06/17/13 04:59 AM
Shopping in Nanaimo
Living in Nanaimo means you don’t give up a thing when it comes to shopping. All the brand name retailers you love are here, plus historic charm in the downtown shopping district and farmers markets for fresh organic food.

Woodgrove Centre
Largest shopping mall on Vancouver Island located on Old Island Highway #19A. 150 shops including:
The Bay  WalMart Chapters Winners SportChek Old Navy ToysRUs
Country Club Centre
Located on Old Island Highway #19A. Over 50 Shops and Services including:
Save On Foods JYSK CIBC Future Shop Shoppers Drug Mart
Nanaimo North Town Centre
Located on Rutherford Road and Old Island … (0 comments)

about nanaimo: Getting to Nanaimo - 06/17/13 04:52 AM
Getting to Nanaimo
By Ferry
The BC Ferry Service runs daily sailings between Nanaimo and the mainland from two different terminals. Take your car or walk on for a comfortable, modern, mini-cruise. There’s buffet and self-serve food service, arcade, kids play areas, Internet access, gift shop, plus fantastic scenery right outside to keep you occupied.
Arrive at least 45 minutes (minimum) ahead of time. Ticket sales stop 20 minutes prior to sailing. Reservations are recommended in the summer and holiday weekends.

Horseshoe Bay, West Vancouver to Departure Bay, Nanaimo (1 hour 40 minutes) Tsawwassen to Duke Point, Nanaimo (2 hours) By Air … (1 comments)

about nanaimo: A Brief History of Nanaimo - 06/17/13 04:39 AM
A Brief History of Nanaimo
If you are thinking of relocating to Nanaimo, you’re in good company. Nanaimo has been inhabited for thousands of years, first by the Coast Salish people and then by European explorers and settlers beginning in the late eighteenth century.
By 1850s, Nanaimo was a lively trading post for the Hudson’s Bay Company. The Nanaimo Bastion, all that remains of the fort built by the company, still commands an impressive view of the harbour and islands from its downtown lookout.

Nanaimo Mining Life What really put the growing town on the map was the lure of coal … (0 comments)