Source: RateSuperMarket.ca

There has been some interesting news for the Vancouver real estate market in April. The mortgage levels are maintained low, which should attract more potential home buyers to buy new property right now, even in the overpriced environment of Vancouver real estate.

Low interest rates both for fixed and variable mortgages did not help to maintain the high number of sales in the Great Vancouver, which led to a 13.2 per cent decrease of sales in comparison with April 2011. Real Estate Bord of Greater Vancouver (REBGV) president Eugen Klein assures citizens that "although April sales were below what’s typical for the month, we continue to see, with a sales-to-active listing ratio of nearly 17 per cent, a balanced relationship between buyer demand and seller supply in our marketplace.” (source here)

Given the low interest rates of the mortgages, it is more than obvious that they are the reason for maintaining the level of overpriced housing. The government of Canada is still waiting and refuses to further reduce the legal limit of a mortgage from 30 to 25 years. The central government also announced that it is going to keep the interests rates low. There is some speculation on the Internet about the possibility of hiking the mortgage rates in the summer, but given the reports from mortgage specialists, it is improbable that we can expect some changes in the next two months both for fixed and variable rates.

Even some bloggers and economists are panicking about the possible hike. The last RBC survey reports an increase in the confidence of Canadians. “Half of mortgage holders (55 per cent) do not think interest rate increases will cause them financial difficulty (up from 49 per cent a year ago).”

Next month will show if the decrease in Vancouver sales was just a statistical deviation or a symptom of disease. For now, Canadians should stay calm and keep confidence in their government and banks that mortgage rates will stay low as promised.

Source: RateSuperMarket.ca and RateHub.ca

Mortgage Rates in British Columbia

Post from: Vancouver REALTOR® Jay Banks

Eugen Klein, REBGV president, commented on April market’s situation: “Although April sales were below what’s typical for the month, we continue to see, with a sales-to-active listing ratio of nearly 17 per cent, a balanced relationship between buyer demand and seller supply in our marketplace.”

The MLS® HPI benchmark price for all residential properties in the Greater Vancouver Area experienced a minor growth of 3.7 per cent over the last year, rising to $683,800 since April 2011, and a 2.8 per cent increase since February 2012. The benchmark price for all residential properties in the Lower Mainland is $612,000 — 2.6 per cent more than three months ago.

Residential property sales reached 2,799 on the Multiple Listing Service®, falling by 2.6 per cent compared to March’s 2,874. This represents a 13.2 per cent decline compared to April 2011 sales, which reached 3,225 and 8.4 per cent fall from the 3,137 home sales in April 2010. With 16,538, the total number of residential property listings on the MLS® raised by 8.5 per cent compared to March 2012 and increased 16 per cent from this time last year — leaving the situation almost identical to the last month.

• Detached property sales on the MLS® (1,126 units) experienced a 19.7 per cent drop compared to April 2011 (1,402 units) and a 17.8 per cent decline compared to April 2010 (1,370 units). The benchmark price increased 6.3 per cent from April 2011 to $1,064,800 .

• Apartment property sales (1,190) declined 0.9 per cent compared to April 2011 (1,201) and 22 per cent compared to April 2010 (1,526), while the benchmark price increased by 1.1 per cent from April 2011 to $375,900 .

• Town home property sales (483 units) experienced a 22.3 per cent decline compared to April 2011 (622 units) and a 21.6 per cent decrease compared to April 2010 (616 units). The benchmark price rose by 1.7 per cent since April 2011 to $487,300.

New listings for detached, attached, and apartment properties amounted to 6,056 — reaching a 3.6 per cent increase in growth compared to March, when new listings reached 5,843. This represents the same 3.6 per cent increase compared to April 2011, when 5,847 homes were added to the MLS® in Greater Vancouver.

Greater Vancouver Real Estate Market Results: April

Post from: Vancouver REALTOR® Jay Banks

Since 1997, the question of sustainability has taken a serious place in global politics. The plan to reduce a level of greenhouse emissions to approximately 5 per cent lower than 1990 levels by 2010, brought by the 1997 Kyoto protocol hasn’t been fulfilled by most of the countries that signed the protocol. Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions have increased by more than 20 per cent since 1990. Scientists now warn us that 1990 greenhouse gas emissions must be reduced by 20 to 25 per cent by 2020 if we are to avoid the dangerous effects of climate change. It is the overconsumption of non-renewable resources that has allowed pollution levels to increase to intolerable numbers.

Sustainable architecture is not about mere materials used; it also includes the very process of construction and design. However, material used has always been the crucial element of sustainable housing. According to the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC)

First Nations people were perhaps the last inhabitants of North America to have truly understood the meaning of sustainability and to have lived accordingly. The present day examples of truly sustainable architecture are rare, if not non-existent.

Green Building Rating Systems

RAIC is actively trying to build a comprehensible rating system for green housing. They attempt to raise the awareness of people about sustainable architecture and standards of building design and construction.

One of these systems, called LEED® Canada, covers six key areas and gives points to building that reached a appropriate level in any of them. The LEED® system has been adopted also in the United States. According to RAIC, this rating system has raised public awareness, interest, and knowledge about the importance of building more environmentally sustainable facilities. These are six points included in LEED®:

- Sustainable Site Planning
- Safeguarding Water and Water Efficiency
- Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
- Conservation of Materials and Resources
- Indoor Environmental Quality
- Innovation and Design Process

Canada Green Building Council

Another initiative by Cascadia Green Building Council called Living Building Challenge tries to engage builders, architects, and designers in reaching the highest standards of LEED® rating system and beyond. The Living Building Challenge targets problems of construction sites, water supplies, energy efficiency, and use of local renewable resources and systems. A few of buildings in Canada now consume less than the equivalent of 100kWh/m2/year (360MJ/m2/year), a level of energy consumption that could soon be met cost effectively by on-site or neighbourhood renewable energy systems. The intent of the Living Building Challenge is to encourage and stimulate sustainable architecture in the future.

RAIC tries to implement and encourage various systems for the sustainable architecture evaluation and implementation. According to the Institute,

Architects should encourage all levels of government, building owners, and clients to achieve a high level of energy performance for the design and construction of new and renovated buildings. The application of building rating and point systems as well as involving “Accredited Professionals” in the design and commissioning process of a building must not be a replacement for applying careful thought, logical decision-making, and skill to the design development and detailing of an energy efficient building.

So far, leadership in sustainable design has generally been evident in the public sector. According to SABMag, universities, provincial power utilities, and government institutions have been among the best performers in the field of green and sustainable architecture. However, we are now beginning to see private sector companies recognizing the benefits of green design. The RBC Centre in Toronto was a SAB Award winner in 2011, and the trend seems set to continue.

Radically Sustainable Buildings

Earthship

When talking about sustainable and green housing, we have to mention the Earthship project. It is clear that no part of sustainable living has been ignored in this ingenious building. The project is really ingenious. The question is whether they really are able to be built in any part of the world, in any climate, and still provide electricity, potable water, contained sewage treatment, and sustainable food production. I really had some serious doubts about the ability of Earthship architects to overcome hostile weather conditions of, let’s say, Northern Canada. According to their own words, Earthships all around the world include their own utilities made onsite. One Earthship building uses little to no fossil fuels to provide modern amenities. They claim to be simply adapting human needs to the already existing activities of the planet. I’ve chosen this project as the model because although it may sound boastful sometimes, in the end, it’s one of the most complex and thoroughly designed radically sustainable building systems you can find today.

I have to admit that when you look at the projects that have been already successfully built in various parts of the world, the Earthship project seems quite astounding. However, some parts of their philosophy might be a bit off-putting, as well as the name Earthship, which sounds like something of science fiction. Enough about theories; let’s look at the schematics of Earthship homes, which are truly astonishing in their complexity, sustainability, and most importantly, simplicity. It’s the simple and natural character of all the buildings that seals the deal. Even your 6-year-old would come to same principles if you asked him simple some straightforward questions.

Systems

It is crucial to get your water, electricity, temperature, light, and many other things from somewhere. It is even harder when you want to do all this in the “green” way. (The other question is what green architecture really means in the true sense of the word, but let’s focus a bit less on the philosophy and a bit more on facts.) The systems necessary to implement in one of the Earthship houses take up to 25 per cent of the total process of house construction, providing little or no utility bills every month. Initially, it might scare you off because we are really not accustomed to this type of power and water solution, but the final product is quite impressive. It might have a few glitches though, but which house doesn’t?

• Water

Rainwater harvesting system
by Wikimedia Commons

In Earthship houses, water is caught from roof catchment systems and channeled via silt catches into cisterns. Cisterns then use gravity to feed a DC pump and filter panels. A DC pump and filter panel pushes water into a pressure tank, and the result is conventional household water pressure in your taps. (These are part of system referred to as the Water Organizing Module – WOM) The toilet is separated from the drainage system of all other household plumbing fixtures. Water is used in a conventional way, such as bathing or washing dishes. After it is used, this water is then drained into linear biologically developed interior grey water treatment and containment systems.

Water is heated with the sun and natural gas. The sun heats the water and the natural gas water heater only turns on if the water is not hot enough. This is called “gas-on-demand” water heating.

• Electricity:

The house gets all its electricity from the sun and the wind. Photovoltaic panels convert the sun’s energy into DC current electricity and is stored in golf-cart-type batteries. An Earthship Power Organizing Module (POM) draws the electricity from the batteries, inverts some of it for AC electricity, and transfers it to the home, where it’s used for daily use of washing machines, computers, various kitchen appliances, printers, vacuum cleaners — simply anything you need can be used normally. No electricity is required for heating and cooling! The POM can accept electricity from a gasoline generator or be tied in with the city energy grid, so if you want to be extra careful not to run out of energy, you can make arrangements. Personally, I think that this is quite a wise thing to do because having only photovoltaic panels and a wind turbine doesn’t always mean energy 24/7, especially in Canada.

• House’s heating/cooling:

Naturally, different climates around the world require different designs for the home to interact with these two sources of temperature. However, I remain skeptical of the effectiveness of the system, but I have to admit the houses built in Canada and their owners, especially Earthship houses in BC, are standing proof that something like radically sustainable architecture really exists.

The great advantage of Earthship homes is that they are thermal mass homes first, passive solar homes second. Therefore the layout and design of such houses can be completely customized to look like any conventional home and still be sustainable.

The basic idea behind the Earthship model of sustainable living without any need for heaters or any thermo-regulatory devices is the right usage of the Sun and the Earth. There is a thick layer of tires filled with soil around the house, basically creating the walls, merging with the surrounding soil, creating a house that’s practically incorporated into a hill of some sort. What the sun does is heat up the earth that surrounds the walls of the house, which are practically made of the earth as well. When there is a difference between temperature inside the house and the soil itself, it will start radiating heat back inside the house, making it warmer. If there is too much heat in the house, you simply open the valves in the houses walls, and air will take care of the heat for you. The system is a bit more complicated, but this is it in a nutshell.

Going Commercial

South and west view of Earthship
passive solar home by Wikimedia
Commons

The Earthship project is amazing. You could say that it represents sustainability at its top. Currently there is scarcely a project that could be compared to the Earthship and this has reflected on the commercial part of it heavily. The next Earthship Biotecture Seminar that’s going to take place in Toronto, September 21-23 already costs $400 per person. The Earthship Biotecture Academy costs $1600 for March/April and June/July 2012 sessions $2400 for September/October 2012 session, and it’s already full. It looks like that there’s quite a demand for the Earthship know-how in the international community, and Canadian society is no exception.

Green Buildings Program in Vancouver

The City of Vancouver has a mandate to improve the environmental performance of city’s buildings, which account for 55 per cent of Vancouver’s greenhouse gas emissions. Constructing and operating buildings consumes a great deal of natural resources and produces a large volume of waste. The City of Vancouver’s green building program tries to promote more sustainable methods of home construction and maintenance. The goal is to use fewer resources and design houses with ongoing efficiency in mind. Owners and contractors are encouraged to think ahead to create buildings that suit their intended use, the local climate, and the natural environment.

According to theGreen Buildings and Sustainability Program:

The City of Vancouver is moving towards a goal of carbon neutral buildings by 2020. The green building program aims to not only educate about green building techniques but to align regulations and bylaws to make it easier to design and construct green buildings.

The Greenest City 2020 Project

The initiative is the part of wider Vancouver – the Greenest City 2020 project. The Greenest City 2020 Action Plan (GCAP) builds on the 2009 work of Mayor Gregor Robertson’s Greenest City Action Team. A group of local experts researched best practices from leading green cities around the world and established the goals and targets that would make Vancouver the world’s Greenest City. This work was published in Vancouver 2020: A Bright Green Future. Recognizing the importance of working toward the goals and targets right away, the team also recommended more than 75 quick-start actions that City of Vancouver staff could begin to act on immediately. The team then tasked City staff to come up with a more robust plan to outline what would be needed to achieve the goals and targets. The result is the Greenest City 2020 Action Plan. More than 9,500 people, most of whom live in Vancouver, actively added their ideas, insights, and feedback to help determine the best path to achieve this plan.

City Council has adopted two in my opinion quite ambitious targets to adopt GCAP’s goals into housing as well. City staff took on this challenge and have begun work on charting a path to meet these goals:

1) to reduce community GHG emissions to 33 per cent below current levels by 2020
2) to have all new construction in Vancouver be greenhouse-gas-neutral by 2030

City Council also runs various programs supporting families, individuals, and companies that want to embark on green housing. They support green house energy updates with home energy loan program. Vancouver is on the brink of becoming one of the greenest-thinking cities in the world, so don’t miss your chance and jump on the bandwagon too.

Sustainable Architecture & Green Buildings in Vancouver

Post from: Vancouver REALTOR® Jay Banks

We all want only the best for our beloved four-legged friends, and this article will help you find the top parks, vets, shops, dog walkers, and dog-friendly apartments in Vancouver. Many parks in Vancouver have unrestricted entrance for dogs, but only a few of them have an off-leash policy, which is naturally the best option if you want to play and have as much fun as possible with your dog.

If you don’t know where to take your dog when he’s sick at 4:00 in the morning, or even which vet is closest to your house, this article will provide you with the information you need. Care for dogs also includes dog-walkers. Owners usually hire them for while they’re at work or terribly busy attending a conference outside the city. There is more to the care about dogs than meets the eye: just take licences and the bylaws you need to know if you want to be a legal dog owner for example. Despite the seemingly endless list of obstacles and need-to-knows, every dog owner will tell you that she’s happy and more than willing to accept any one of them just to make her dog happy.

Off-leash Dog Parks and Locations

Dogs are welcome in all Vancouver Parks. Special off-leash privileges are available during specific times at selected locations. Be very careful and watch the time, even if you’re having a great deal of fun with your beloved pet. You can get an unpleasant fine if you let your dog off the leash longer than it’s allowed. You can always come again another day. In most parks, the off-leash time splits into morning and evening sessions, usually before and after most people have to be at work, so dog owners can spend some quality time with their pets. Here are some of the best off-leash parks for you and your dog. The rest of them can be found on the map provided by the Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation.

• Charleson Park (Map)

The grass bowl is off-leash 6:00 A.M. to 10:00 P.M. year-round. The waterfall pond is on-leash June to September, 10:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. and off-leash at other times. If you want to relax a bit, Charleson is just the place to go with your dog. The view of the downtown shoreline you get around the waterfall and pond is amazing, especially when the sun goes down. Charleson is one of the nicest places to watch the sunset in Vancouver.

• CRAB Park at Portside (Map)

Crab Park by Wisley

The east side of the park is off-leash 6:00 A.M. to 10:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M. to 10:00 P.M. Be careful since no dogs are allowed within 15 metres of the playground. From atop a grassy knoll or the small pier jutting into Burrard Inlet, this is a good place to get a close look at Vancouver’s working port, with views of the colourful containers, cruise ships, heliport, and SeaBuses. If you enter the park from the Main Street overpass, you’ll be able to take some beautiful pictures of two Chinese lion statues framing views of the peaks. This park also has waterfront access.

• Spanish Bank Beach Park (Map)

The outlined area is off-leash from 6:00 A.M. to 10:00 P.M. The park also has waterfront access. Silent and sparkling on summer mornings, Spanish Bank Beach quickly fills with people as the temperature rises. Your dog will love you even more if you give him the opportunity to run freely through the sand.

• Queen Elizabeth Park (Map)

The outlined area is off-leash from 6:00 A.M. to 10:00 P.M. Queen Elizabeth Park is one of the most beautiful parks in Vancouver — if not the most beautiful. It’s a shame that only two parts of the park are off-leash, so dogs and their owners are quite restricted when it comes to the off-leash area; however, all dog owners say that for some reason this is their dogs’ favourite park.

• Balaclava Park (Map)

The outlined area is off-leash from 7:00 A.M. to 10:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M. to 10:00 A.M. The nearly five hectares located in a very quiet neighbourhood are an ideal for jogging with your faithful friend. It’s also a good place to take your family for a picnic or just a short walk. The park also has a playground and softball field.

How to Find a Good Vet Nearby

Vancouver Animal Emergency Clinic

Vancouver Animal Emergency Clinic (Animal ER) is the place to go if your dog is sick in the evening or at night. It’s a facility dedicated to providing 24-hour emergency and critical care services for companion animals. They employ some of the finest and most experienced vets in the city. The animal ER has been functioning for almost 35 years. In their own words:

Every pet, whether injured or sick, will have timely access to treatment and diagnostics, delivered by our expert team of veterinarians, veterinary technicians, veterinary office assistants and support staff. Our Team members have been chosen not only for their skills, but also for their ability to do their best for you and your pet. Our Team continually undergoes training, both on site and at recognized national and international seminars.

The centre holds the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) accreditation, an evaluation based on 900 standards in various areas. However, if the situation is not urgent and you don’t want to drive to Granville, where the clinic is, you can find a lot of capable and professional vets all around Vancouver.

Licences

Each dog owner in Vancouver is obliged to get a licence for his/her pet once he’s older than three months. The licence isn’t just a city by-law: it also protects your pet and helps identify your dog if she gets lost. You are entitled to get your pet back with no impound charge once per calendar year. According to the City of Vancouver City Council:

Every year, more than 3,500 dogs go missing in Vancouver. 92 per cent of lost dogs wearing a licence are returned to their owner, while a high percent of dogs lost without a tag never find their way back home.

Licence fees help the pound provide food, shelter, and medical treatment to lost, abandoned, or abused dogs, and fund education and pet adoption services. Dog licence renewals are staggered throughout the year according to where you live in Vancouver. Intact male or intact female dog licences cost $71.00, while neutered male or spayed female licenses cost $38.00. The penalty for missing the licence expiry date is $10 a month.

Dog Walkers and Dog Daycare

Dogs Walking by Michael Scheltgen

Dogs need to be walked at least a few hours a day, and since many people work too late or start too early, they don’t always have the time to do so themselves. In cases like these, many people decide to hire a dog walker who will pick the dog up and walk him every day. Some dogs need even more attention. A great deal of our beloved friends are simply scared if left home alone. That’s why more and more dog daycare centres have started to pop up around the city. You can leave your dogs during the day, they can play with others and you pick them up after you’ve finished at work. Basically it’s the same as with children and daycare, except some of the doggie daycares also offer training for your pets. These are some of Vancouver’s best dog walking and dog daycare services.

• Lucky Dog Walking Service

As Lucky Dog promises in its advertisement, it really provides your dog with air, play, and love during the day when you’re not able to get away from the office. The service is highly professional yet not at all uptight. Lucky Dog Walking Service is licensed, insured, bonded, and certified in Pet First Aid, so you really don’t need to be worried. They specialize in group and private dog walking to keep your dog happier and healthier. The service also offers puppy visits, in-hotel dog sitting, pet taxi service, phoDography, and hosting “lucky hour” events — fun, casual events for singles with dogs to meet other singles with dogs.

• Best Friends Pet Care

Best Friends Pet Care operates in Vancouver’s west side, including Point Grey, Kits, Kerrisdale, Shaughnessy, Fairview, and Mount Pleasant, providing both dog walking and cat sitting services 365 days a year. They are licensed, insured, bonded, and fully certified in Pet First Aid (for both dogs and cats) for your piece of mind — at work or at the birthday party at you allergic friend.

• Biscuits Pet Services

Biscuits Pet Services

You don’t need to worry about your pet while Biscuit Pet Services takes care of her; they are a pet first aid service trained by St. John Ambulance and licensed, insured, and bonded pet care professionals. They are very eager and able to adapt to your needs, and it’s been said that flexibility is very important in this business.

• Canine Adventure Den Daycare

With over 4,000 square feet of indoor and 1,200 square feet of outdoor play area for big and small dogs, the Adventure Den is one of the biggest establishments in and around Vancouver. They also offer new puppy daycare. This False Creek daycare centre is open six days a week Monday to Friday, from 6:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. and Saturday from 8:30 A.M. to 5:30 P.M. They offer pick-up and drop-off service and adventure dog hikes.

• Creature Comforts Pet Care Services

Creature Comforts Pet Care Services have been around for more than fifteen years now. Their services range from private walks to group hikes. They are insured, bonded, and licensed, a founding member of VPDWA.

Do you have any suggestions that might help dog owners like you? Don’t hesitate to add a comment below. It would be much appreciated!

Best Places for Your Dog in Vancouver

Post from: Vancouver REALTOR® Jay Banks

Many of us have wanted one of these perfect creatures at some point in our lives. Lucky souls have already got at least one loyal pet friend. But there are still many dog admirers who remain undecided. One of the most common reasons for their hesitation is that they live in a condominium. Some people even believe that a dog cannot be raised in a condo. If you belong among the indecisive group, this article could hold a few clues to a successful choice.

Before You Buy a Dog

Check with your landlord

Be sure that you ask your apartment manager, landlord, or rental office for permission before buying or adopting a dog. Some apartments do not allow dogs at all because of property damages. Some will charge a “pet rent.” It’s possible you could be charged $30 a month for your pet in addition to the security and cleaning deposits that will be required.

Restrictions

Some apartments, especially in cities, will not approve certain breeds, especially the more allegedly aggressive or protective ones. These often include, Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers, Pit Bulls, German Shepherds, and Boxers. Most establishments will have a complete list on the premises. If the apartment only allows small dogs and you own, for instance, a Golden Retriever, ask for an allowance and then make sure it’s written into the lease and initialled by you and the landlord. Negotiating might not always work, though. You should also pay attention to the size and weight restrictions, policies about barking, and the number of pets you’re permitted to own.

If you want to convince your prospective landlord, the best thing you can do is to bring your dog for a demonstration. Don’t forget vet records proving that your pet is in good health and is up to date on all vaccinations. Be willing to confirm on paper that you’ll keep your dog on a leash and muzzled, and that you’ll dispose of his droppings.

When you finally are accommodated, I advise you to abide by the ten commandments for condo and apartment dog owners.

The Right Dog for a Condo Life

Golden Valentine Brothers
by Andrew Morrell

Now it’s time to choose your dog! Together we will go through the 20 most popular breeds of 2011 according to the American Kennel Club. If one of these apartment dog breeds sparks your interest, it’s necessary first to really examine the breed’s personality and needs. The secret of a stable and happy dog lies in providing enough exercise. Dogs are animals that retain the instinct to migrate. Therefore, even the owners of small breeds should take their darlings out for regular walks. High-energy dogs should be taken out for long walks, bike rides, or jogs.

Types of dogs that cannot live in an apartment:

• aggressive guard dogs
• extremely high-energy dogs
• dogs that bark too often

Working, herding, and sporting dog breed groups are generally not recommended for apartments. Many mixed breed and hybrid dogs make outstanding apartment dogs. In addition to their longer and healthier lives, they seem to bark less.

Twenty Most Popular Breeds

Bichon Havanese

Weight: 7-13 pounds
Height: 8”-12”
Life Span: 12-15 years
Shedding: No

Havanese by Wikimedia Commons

This dog is kid-tolerant. However, the breed is too fragile for younger children; perfect for seniors.

This tiny wonder is a friend to just about everyone. He gets along well with kids, other dogs, pets, and strangers. The Havanese is happiest when he is the centre of attention. He is a little show-off who likes to play and act silly. He gives plenty of affection in return. This breed has even been used for therapy work. Since the dog is keen on learning anything new, it’s easy to train him — though he tends to bark a lot. Use clicker training for exceptional training sessions. Try to encourage their effort through positive reinforcement. These dogs love water and swimming.

Small dogs like the Havanese tend to develop small dog syndrome which results in the need to dominate the house and everyone in it. Therefore, they must be heavily socialized starting very early. They need an owner and family that knows how to exert a firm but kind “pack leader” dominance role over them.

Boston Terrier

Weight: 12-25 pounds
Height: 15”-17”
Lifespan: 10-14 years
Shedding: Some

Boston Terrier by Wikimedia Commons

Suitable for children and the elderly.

The Boston Terrier is one of the few truly American breeds. The breed can be easily recognized for their black and white coloration and characteristic appearance. Their small size and neatness make them a good breed for apartments. Intelligent and enthusiastic, these small clowns are easily house trained. After brief periods of activity, the Boston loves to curl up on the couch while you read a good book. They are gentle, obedient dogs who seldom fight. Nevertheless, they are protective and very loyal to their family. The Boston is also a good watch dog.

Boxer

Weight: 65-80 pounds
Height: 21”-25”
Lifespan: 9-11 years
Shedding: Yes

Boxer by Wikimedia Commons

They tolerate kids nicely. The Boxer will be a comforting friend for seniors who are able to get out and walk and drive a car.

As a medium-sized dog, the Boxer is one of the largest breeds that can do well in an apartment. Friendly and outgoing, she is the ultimate people dog. She lives life to the fullest. She can become so cheerful that her whole pelvis moves when she waggles his tail. With these traits, Boxers can be labelled as canine slapstick performers. They are also very intelligent but can be boisterous. For that reason, proper obedience training is a must. Luckily for you, the breed enjoys training and learns quite easily. The Boxer is wary of strangers but curious, and she will act boldly if threatened. Thanks to her fearless disposition, she is a great guard dog as well as guide dog. This dog is friendly and faithful to her family. Her temperament is basically playful, yet she is patient and stoic with children. She is tolerant of their antics and loves to play. Two walks per day and maybe a little “fetch” time will keep your boxer happy and healthy. She loves to go jogging!

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Weight: 13-18 pounds
Height: 12”-13”
Lifespan: 9-14 years
Shedding: Slight

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
by Wikimedia Commons

This breed does not have a lot of patience for very young kids and their antics; perfect for seniors.

The Cavalier is one of the best apartment dogs and the most loveable of the toy breeds. He is sweet, gentle, quiet, exceptionally affectionate, and gets along with everyone — from other dogs to strangers and older children. This is a perfect family pet: always ready to please, intelligent, and easy to train. This dog will respond extremely well to clicker training. A walk on a leash twice a day is sufficient for the Cavalier. When outdoors, the “spaniel” in him suddenly emerges and the dog wants to roam and sniff. Just like all the other toy breeds, the Cavaliers can develop small dog syndrome when not socialized too young and trained correctly.

Chihuahua

Weight: 2-6 pounds
Height: 5”-9”
Lifespan: 15-18 years
Shedding: Some

Chihuahua by Wikimedia Commons

They are very fragile and not always tolerant of children’s antics, noise, poking, and pushing; excellent for the elderly.

The Chihuahua supposedly has its origins in Mexico. Treated as a sacred dog that helps transition to the afterlife, the Chihuahua has always been a significant part of the family. Weighing a few pounds, this dog copes well in even the smallest of condos. What the Chihuahua lacks in size she makes up for in temperament. She is devoted and protective, rather easy to train and look after. The breed can also be paper-trained, which means the dog does not have to leave the house. The breed tends to be a little jealous when their owners pay attention to other people. Sometimes this jealousy can create problems since the breed can also be aggressive towards other dogs, especially the larger ones. For that reason, Chihuahuas need to be socialized early in life to prevent bad manners.

Dachshund

Weight: 16-32 pounds
Height: 8”-9”
Lifespan: 15-18 years
Shedding: Yes, smooth and wire-haired subtypes shed quite a lot; long-haired versions shed some fur.

Short Haired Dachshund
by Wikimedia Commons

Suitable for older kids in her own family but may snap at strange kids; good choice for an active senior as well but do consider Dachshund’s longevity!

With their short legs and long bodies, the Dachshund can live happily in an apartment. Playful, outgoing, and stubborn, the Doxie is a member of the hound breeds. The breed is curious, persistent, and loves to participate in family activities. Your Dachshund may possess seemingly limitless amounts of energy, thus keeping you active and well entertained. They enjoy a good walk or run in the park, or even the thrill of a wiener race from time to time, but the Dachshund is also content with a soft, warm bed. He is intelligent and willing to learn; however, he may be strong-willed. This trait may make training difficult, but nonetheless amusing. Very alert and vocalizing readily when strangers approach, the breed can also be a good watchdog.

English Bulldog

Weight: 40-50 pounds
Height: 12”-14”
Lifespan: 8-10 years
Shedding: Sheds some.

English Bulldog by Wikimedia Commons

Great family pet; ideal for the elderly.

Deeply rooted in British heritage, the English Bulldog is a stubborn yet relatively submissive breed that has been gaining popularity since the late 1800s. Although originally bred for savagery and bravery, the Bulldog is today a loyal and sweet member of the non-sporting dogs. Once you get used to their snorting, the Bulldog will prove to be a beloved family pet. Not fond of excessive exercise, they need to check out the grass twice daily and prefer to spend their time lounging around the house. The breed will alert their owners to the presence of strangers by barking and growling but tend not to attack. Their grand figure is usually enough to repel villains. As they are quite stubborn and slow to follow instructions, training the Bulldog can be tough

English Cocker Spaniel

Weight: 26-36 pounds
Height: 15”-17”
Lifespan: 12-14 years
Shedding: A little.

English Cocker Spaniel
by Wikimedia Commons

Cockers generally tolerate only older kids. They are good with active seniors.

The popular Cocker Spaniel with his curly fur and sad look is a wise choice for apartment life. Overall, he is a joyful dog that is willing to please. The Cocker is an energetic dog that needs much exercise. If not allowed to be active, behavioural problems develop. The breed has natural protective instincts that make him a good watchdog. Cocker Spaniels have an inherent hunger for hunting and they make proficient gun dogs. In addition to hunting training, they are easily trained in obedience. Even though Cockers are land animals, they can adapt to water.

English Springer Spaniel

Weight: 40-50 pounds
Height: 18”-21”
Lifespan: 10-14 years
Shedding: Light.

English Springer Spaniel
by Wikimedia Commons

Great with older kids, especially those who run a lot outdoors. If his elderly owner can walk enough to satisfy the dog’s needs, these two are a good match.

The Springer Spaniel can be as affectionate and playful as her bigger cousin, the English Setter. However, she must receive adequate exercise first. This dog does well in an apartment as long as she gets out for plenty of vigorous exercise to exhaust her. This dog is cheerful and does everything with gusto. With the right approach, the breed is remarkably kind, gentle, polite, and a genuine companion for the family. Intelligent and ready to learn, especially hunting skills, the typical Springer Spaniel is an ideal dog for first-time owners. Use clicker training and positive reinforcement to achieve the best results.

Maltese

Weight: 4-6 pounds
Height: 9”-10”
Lifespan: 14-16 years
Shedding: If the hair coat is kept groomed, shedding is minimal.

Maltese Puppy by Wikimedia Commons

This dog is not for kids, but an excellent choice for seniors.

Weighing around five pounds, the Maltese certainly is a legitimate member of the apartment dogs group. As the most dramatic member of the toy breed group, the Maltese was cherished by Queen Elizabeth I. One of the reasons for his popularity with the queen may have been his long, snow-white, streaming coat. This breed of royalty also want to be treated like princes. He is a quintessential pet: somewhat affectionate and an absolute lap dog. Despite his gentle looks, this pup can be a feisty character. When showing his wild side, the Maltese loves to romp and play. They can be reserved with strangers — some Maltese even bark a lot when dealing with the unfamiliar. If you happen to get a Maltese with a separation anxiety problem, he will challenge just about everything. Other than standard obedience, he does not really need further training. Training this breed takes longer than usual, yet he’ll catch on in time if you are patient. Use clicker training for excellent results.

Papillon

Weight: 4-9 pounds
Height: 8”-11”
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Shedding: Not much.

Papillon by Wikimedia Commons

Their fragile structure makes them ill suited for living with small children. Yet they like the company of children, especially if they grow up with them. Papillons are ideal for the elderly.

One of the most obedient and responsive of the toy breeds, the vivacious “butterfly dog” is a small, fuzzy ball of fun! She is gentle and loves to play, romp, and walk. Having low exercise needs, Papillons can be entertained indoors and given a walk each day. Possibly the most affectionate of all the toy breeds, they are friendly toward strangers, dogs, and most pets. Some can be timid. These critters are really easy to train. The most effective way for this little dog is the clicker training and positive reinforcement method. Pick up a clicker for around $3.00 at a pet store and get started. This breed makes for a near perfect apartment dog.

Pomeranian

Weight: 3-7 pounds
Height: 8”-11”
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Shedding: Yes.

Pomeranian by Wikimedia Commons

Older children are fine to be around these dogs, say, seven years and up. Just like the rest of the toy breeds, the Pomeranians are born to keep seniors company.

Throughout history, the Pomeranian has been a wonderful companion for royalty. This mini fluff ball looks almost like a little fox. With a happy nature that thrives on human companionship, it is an admirable breed. The Pom is ideal for an apartment because he requires little space. If you are looking for a spunky little dog with a big personality, look no further. He needs lots of activity to keep him out of trouble. The breed can get along well with other dogs but having more than one Pomeranian means a noisy house. He is a clever dog that can be taught various tricks.

Poodle (Miniature and Toy)

Weight: 16-20 pounds (Miniature); 4-8 pounds (Toy)
Height: 11”-15” (Miniature); up to 10” (Toy)
Lifespan: 15-18 years
Shedding: No

Poodle by Wikimedia Commons

The Miniature Poodle is highly affectionate with children. However, the Toy Poodle can snap at them. Both types are superb companions for seniors. Watch out for their longevity, though!

Poodles are widely associated with France. For centuries, they have been a symbol of grace and extravagance. Available in three different sizes and various colours, there is a Poodle to everyone’s taste. The Miniature and Toy Poodle are among the most popular canine apartment dwellers. The Poodle is a pleasant dog that craves constant human company. She hates solitude and prefers being with people rather than with other dogs. The breed also does not like to be ignored and treated as “just a dog.” They are considered by many to be the most intelligent of all breeds. As intelligence is their hallmark, they learn quickly and readily. However, some of them tend to enjoy doing tricks instead of learning commands. In addition to being excellent water dogs, Poodles also do well as family protectors and companions. This breed is well known for being low-shed. What more could you wish for?

Pug

Weight: 14-20 pounds
Height: 9”-11”
Lifespan: 12-16 years
Shedding: Sheds heavily.

Pugs by Wikimedia Commons

Though Pugs consider children as their siblings, children must be mature enough to understand that Pugs do not like to be disturbed when they are eating or sleeping. The elderly will love them!

Would you guess that this oriental breed served as guard dogs in ancient Chinese temples? Hardly ever hostile, the Pug is a charming, good-tempered dog and a clown at heart. In their compact bodies, Pugs harbour unlimited enthusiasm and tremendous amounts of love. Their main reason for living is to stay with the family and to satisfy their owners. They want to be everyone’s best friend but they will get upset when left out of joint activities. Since the Pug is intelligent and clever, sometimes even mischievous, he’s easy to train using standard obedience commands. Small with a short-hair coat, this breed does not need special care as long as he is taken for brief walks. Pugs are great watch dogs, yet they will gladly curl up on your lap and sleep the day away.

Schnauzer (Standard and Miniature)

Weight: 30-36 pounds (Standard); 13-15 pounds (Miniature)
Height: 17”-19” (Standard); 12”-14” (Miniature)
Lifespan: 13-16 years (Standard); 12-15 years (Miniature)
Shedding: This breed usually requires regular grooming but sheds only little to no hair.

Schnauzer by Wikimedia Commons

The Schnauzer is quite tolerant of children and does well with active seniors.

With their grandfatherly appearance, this breed is easily distinguishable. The Schnauzer is deemed by many as the perfect family pet. She is a tough companion as well as protector. All Schnauzers are quite intelligent and reliable watchdogs. They readily alert members of the household to any potential danger. Unfortunately, their watchful temperament can lead to persistent barking. To avoid disturbing the neighbours, you should curb excessive barking through training. Schnauzers tend to be independent minded, so early training and daily exercise is inevitable. However, they do not put up with severe training or reproach. Otherwise they are easy to train. Schnauzers have a high prey drive (typical for a ratting dog), which means they may attack other small pets such as birds, snakes, and rodents. With proper leadership, they can get along with cats and other dogs. Socialize this breed well, especially the Miniature version. Concerning the Mini Schnauzers, these are less domineering than the larger Schnauzers. Since the dogs are extremely playful, they can become bored easily and create their own ways of fun. They will not listen if they feel they are more self-assertive than their master. Therefore, owners need to possess a natural air of authority. Although small, this breed does not have a sharp, shrill bark, but rather sounds like a low howl. She’s an easy dog to travel with.

Shetland Sheepdog

Weight: 18-20 pounds
Height: 13”-16”
Life Span: 12-14 years
Shedding: Some shedding but light.

Shetland Sheepdogs
by Wikimedia Commons

Shetland Sheepdogs tolerate older kids pretty well. The dog needs too much exercise to be kept by a senior.

The “Sheltie” is smart, friendly, sensitive, and extremely willing to please. This combination makes for a dog that is disciplined, quick to learn, and very loyal to its family. He is a great watchdog with plenty of energy in his subtle frame. Give this dog good daily walks or short jogging and some lively game time and he’ll make a fine apartment dog. Don’t be surprised when you find your Sheltie resting on your lap, though. The dog can be reserved and often timid toward strangers. Keep in mind that this breed generally barks a lot. If you want to train your Sheltie, you will achieve excellent results with clicker training and the dog will like the technique too.

Shih-Tzu

Weight: 9-16 pounds
Height: 8”-11”
Lifespan: 14-16 years
Shedding: No.

Shih Tzu by Wikimedia Commons

Children over six years are okay as long as the kids understand how to treat smaller dog breeds. This breed is one of seniors’ absolute favourites!

Lively and spunky, the Shih-Tzu is packed with character. She is before anything else an affectionate, trusting companion and lap dog that loves to play. He needs little exercise beyond a brief walk. This devoted dog makes friends quickly and is generally good with other pets too. He will sometimes bark at the ringing doorbell or postman and can alert his owners to fire. As Shih-Tzus have mind of their own, the training process can be draining. Your little pup will respond well if you stay patient and repeat commands over and over. The Shih-Tzus need all of the apartment dwellers to set consistently clear rules. Otherwise, they can simply become furious and noisy.

Welsh Corgi

Weight: 25-30 pounds
Height: 10”-13”
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Shedding: The coat is shed twice a year.

Corgi by Wikimedia Commons

Corgis are devoted and protective — especially around children. However, only older kids who are over 6 or 7 years old can stay around them. As Corgis need to move a lot, they are not a sensible option for the elderly.

Two breeds have the name Welsh Corgi — the Cardigan Welsh Corgi and the Pembroke Welsh Corgi. At first sight, you may get the notion that the only difference is the presence or absence of a tail. On closer inspection, you’ll find more differences. These are two totally separate breeds coming from different origins and ancestors. The Cardigan is still used to herd livestock. The Pembroke acts as a regular house pet with the exception of Great Britain, where locals adore the breed so much that it has become the Royal Dog of England. Both Corgis are intelligent and faithful dogs that shine at obedience training. Having fewer herding instincts, the Pembroke is also more tolerant and fun-loving. Their possessive streak can result in aggressive tendencies in certain dogs. This stocky breed needs periodic exercise but does not demand a large living space. As working dogs, Corgis are content to do a meaningful job.

West Highland White Terrier

Weight: 15-21 pounds
Height: 10”-11”
Life Span: 12-14 years
Shedding: Some

Westie by Wikimedia Commons

They are excellent for older children above the age of ten or children with whom they’ve been raised. Elderly people who can take the dog for a walk and would welcome a joyful time with their beloved pet will find an affectionate friend.

The adorable little Westie comes from Scotland. Perfectly proportioned for an apartment, he is a popular dog, especially with families and kids. This loyal companion likes people and most other dogs. He is typically a clever, polite dog with good manners. His barking will protect you from intruders and he will shower you with kisses until you go for a towel. Westies love nothing better than to play active games with their human counterparts. They are often considered the eternal puppies. Even though they may have a fun-loving attribute, Westies can be calm, confident, and determined. This sweet doggie will go jogging with you or fetch a ball in the dog park. He needs some grooming to keep his coat smooth and without tangles. The Westie is successful in obedience and agility as well as hunting and chasing.

Yorkshire Terrier

Weight: 7 pounds
Height: 6”-7”
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Shedding: This breed sheds little to no hair.

Yorkshire Terrier
by Wikimedia Commons

Most breeders won’t sell puppies to people whose children are younger than 5 or 6 years old. Besides that, children’s play with the dog should always be supervised. Seniors would score a bullseye!

The Yorkshire Terrier, well known for his sateen-like flowing locks, is a tiny but tough breed. Originally used to hunt rats, Yorkshire Terriers are very alert to strangers and can readily warn their family. Oddly enough, females are usually better watchdogs than males. Male Yorkies tend to let the females do all the work. Yorkies obligingly share their homes and families with other dog breeds. They are primarily indoor dogs, happy to spend their days lolling on the couch, but since they are Terriers at heart, they can live a hard outdoor life. The Yorkshire Terrier can be easily trained in basic obedience. These peaceful dogs need regular grooming.

Allergy Concerns

Do hypo-allergenic dogs exist?

In fact, no dog breed can suppress allergy causes because all dogs produce dander (shed skin cells), saliva, and urine. Pet hair itself is not an allergen, but it can collect dander, dust, and pollen. Urine is less problematic since dogs urinate outside. Pet allergy sufferers, who constitute as much as 15 per cent of our population, testified that it is possible to be allergic to all dogs or only to a particular breed. Some dog breeds are thought to produce less dander than others. That’s why many people who suffer from a mild form of allergy to dogs can live with so-called low-dander dogs in a convenient environment. You should be careful though, for there are no guarantees! Severe pet allergy sufferers might not tolerate any dogs at all, even with the best environmental controls.

If you’re allergic to dogs, there are things you can do to reduce your allergic symptoms. These tips are also helpful if you want to invite guests who suffer from allergies to animals.

• Bathe and groom your dog regularly and thoroughly. While grooming the dog, use an allergy-reducing spray.
• Wash your hands after handling the dog, his toys, bed, and other things
• Do not allow your dog to enter the bedroom. If you do, at least buy yourself a vinyl mattress cover and change bed sheets once a week.
• Use hardwood, vinyl, or linoleum floors instead of carpets.
• Clean and vacuum regularly.
• Install a good “HEPA” air cleaner.
• Use seat covers in your car.
• Feed your dog multivitamins and fatty acid supplements to keep her skin healthy.

Suitable dog breeds for allergy sufferers:

• Curly-coated: Bichon Frises, Irish Water Spaniels, Poodles, and Portuguese Water Dogs
• Hairless: American Hairless Terriers, Chinese Cresteds, and Xoloitzcuintli
• Low-shedding or single-coated: Basenjis, Chihuahuas, Italian Greyhounds, and Maltese
• Terrier-type: Bedlington Terriers, Kerry Blue Terriers, Schnauzers, and Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers

Dog-friendly Interior

To be frank, even a well trained dog poses a difficulty in maintaining an attractive home, so be prepared for accidents and messes of all kinds: vomiting, tracking dirt in, occasional incontinence, soiling wherever it is possible, and so forth. Moreover, the soiling issues increase with a dog’s age, or if it becomes sick.

Dalmation by Dave Morris

Flooring materials

• Opt for a hard surface like tile, wood, concrete, or stone, as these materials can be cleaned most easily.
• Most of these materials will need proper sealing to minimize stains, especially wood and stone, which are both porous. Porcelain and ceramic tile would be the ideal solution. Otherwise, select non-slip varnishes for this purpose.
• It is recommended to install heating in the floor so it isn’t too cold and balance the hard material with soft surfaces to absorb noise.
• Do not exclude carpet from your options! It is much more comfortable for dogs to lay on and offers them better traction. Choose rubber-backed area rugs or lay a nonskid pad under them. Small cotton rag rugs can be simply tossed in the washing machine.
• A wool carpet seems to be one of the smartest solutions. Wool is more stain-resistant than other fibers and cleans easily. Plus, it’s pretty durable, environmentally friendly, provides great insulation, and feels comfy.
• Another wise option is carpet tile. You can lay it yourself, and if one gets dirty, you just replace it with a new one. On unexpected occasions, a few extra should be at hand.

Walls

• If you want to use paint, look for a high-quality, easily cleanable product. Gloss-finish paints like eggshell and even semi-gloss, which is more usually used only on woodwork, will be easier to clean than flat paint.
• If the wallpaper is washable and can be scrubbed easily, it is an excellent choice. Variegated and irregular patterns will hide anything.

Furnishings and Useful Tips

• Give up fur-magnet materials such as silk, chintz, velvet, and chenille. You’d better cover your chairs and sofas with removable, machine-washable slipcovers made of heavy fabrics, such as denim or canvas. Leather, fake leather and microfiber are also convenient for dog-friendly homes. If you choose leather, make sure it’s thick enough to withstand dogs’ claws.
• In bedrooms, use quilt covers or bedspreads that can be shaken out and easily put back into place. Shop for tightly woven fibres that can be spot cleaned with water and detergent. Many won’t even require ironing. Crypton — a synthetic cloth that’s resistant to stains, smells, and bacteria — would be a smart choice.
• When you’re away, lay aluminum foil on the cushions of your sofa. The unsettling feel of the wrinkling foil will discourage your dog from jumping on the furniture without your permission.
• Don’t place fragile objects at nose, tail, or paw level. Go for a simple look: I suggest that you entirely remove redundant ornaments and worthless novelties.
• Keep a doormat outside the door. It will help trap dirt before your canine companion enters the apartment.
• Utilize a small cupboard, chest, or closet to hide leashes, doggy treats, pet wipes, and the like.
• Keep their toys easily accessible either in baskets or boxes.
• Don’t forget to provide cushiony places for pets in a room where people use to hang out.

Dog-reated Facilities in Vancouver

Please visit raincitydogs.com. The site contains useful Vancouver-area information for dog owners such as Vancouver dog park listings, dog trainers in Vancouver, great dog walkers, and daycare centres for dogs, boarding facilities, dog-friendly hotels in and around Vancouver, and lots of great Vancouver dog-related advice.

Keeping a Dog in a Condo

Post from: Vancouver REALTOR® Jay Banks

House in Vancouver by Amy
Thibodeau

What is the relationship between household debt and the depth of economic downturns?

If household debts increase considerably before the recession kicks in, the effect of such a downturn would be far more serious. Real GDP and household consumption would plummet, unemployment would increase considerably, and the time of the recovery would be prolonged. According to IMF’s research, household consumption falls by more than four times the amount that can be explained by the fall in house prices in high-debt economies. The relationship between household debt and the contraction in consumption also holds for economies that did not experience a banking crisis around the time of the housing bust.

Why might gross household debt be a problem?

It’s already been mentioned that IMF’s findings suggest that downturns are more severe when they are preceded by larger increases in household debt. Household debt is dangerous mainly because it amplifies the effect of macroeconomic shocks and weakens recoveries significantly. The pattern is as follows:

De-leveraging could stem from a realization that house prices were overvalued, a tightening in credit standards, a sharp revision in income expectations, or an increase in economic uncertainty. Here, a sufficiently large fall in the interest rate could induce creditor households to spend more, thus offsetting the decline in spending by the debtors.

What can governments do to support growth when household debt becomes a problem?

Mantioba House by Wendy Cutler

The main idea behind the governmental policies is that:

Targeted household debt restructuring policies can deliver significant benefits. Such policies can, at a relatively low fiscal cost, substantially mitigate the negative impact of household de-leveraging on economic activity… reduce the number of household defaults and foreclosures, and alleviate debt repayment burdens. In so doing, these programs help prevent self-reinforcing cycles of declining house prices and lower aggregate demand.

How’s Canada Holding Up?

Canada has also introduced more regulations in the mortgage market. There is the dispute of whether these changes are right, but there’s definitely ground for some change. The debt-to-income ratio among Canadian households fell in the fourth quarter of last year to 152.9 per cent from 154.2 per cent. According to a report released by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), only 42 per cent of homeowners in Canada are mortgage-free. According to a report by CIBC World Markets Inc., the surge in Canadian borrowing over the last five years has been driven by the most indebted households. Households heavily dependent on borrowing now hold 73 per cent of all household debt in Canada. Despite several warnings in the media, Canadians have no reason to be discouraged yet. Mortgage rates are still at historic low levels.

How Dangerous is High Household Debt for the Economy?

Post from: Vancouver REALTOR® Jay Banks

Ruth Jones Tapestry in Circle Craft
Gallery

It’s time to get carried away a bit. If you let it happen, your reward would be a world of creativity, shapes, and colours you would have never imagined could look so amazing.

Andrighetti Glass Gallery (Map)

Necklace by Joanne Andrighetti

Andrighetti Glass Works used to offer classes, and they continue in the new location as well. There are all kinds of classes offered at Terminal City: Beadmaking, Boro, Furnacework (Glassblowing), and Sandblasting for beginners and advanced crafters. There are also lectures and demonstrations. Adrighetti Glass Works and Gallery is truly the place where glass feels alive.

Website: www.andrighetti.com
Email:
Phone: 604-731-8652

Circle Craft Co-Operative Shop & Gallery (Map)

Circle Craft is a unique BC Artist Cooperative dedicated to providing opportunities for craftspeople to connect with the community. Formed in 1972, Circle Craft has grown to become a major force in the marketing and promotion of quality craft utilizing, as they say, it’s a “direct from the artist approach.”

Circle Craft is well-known among some people mainly because of its November Christmas Craft Show at the Convention Centre, but what is truly charming about this particular gallery is the sale and show of over 200 local artists’ and artisans’ works. Circle Craft supports all types of fine crafts, from jewellery and stonework to glass work and pottery. Circle Craft aims to promote the development, recognition, and success of members and their work, and I think they’ve done a pretty amazing job so far.

Website: www.circlecraft.net
Email:
Phone: 604-669-8021

Gallery of BC Ceramics (Map)

Gallery of BC Ceramics

If you’re looking for a unique, handmade gift that supports local artists, make sure to check out the Gallery of BC Ceramics. The gallery staff is very friendly, helpful, and available to guide customers. The frequent turnover in exhibits and stock means that even a regular visitor is constantly surprised by what’s on display, which is quite a pleasant bonus for such a small gallery.

Website: www.bcpotters.com
Email:
Phone: 604-669-3606

Glass Onion Studio & Gallery (Map)

A quirky East-side studio and public gallery, Glass Onion showcases some pretty bizarre creations by local artists. A gallery that has neither email nor a website doesn’t look very good at first site, but when you come in, you’ll find out that this is not a drawback but a specialty. Glass Onion started out as a place for glasswork artisans only, but the studio has totally let loose and now encompasses a swarm of media. Take, for example, ‘memory boxes’ by Eric Allen Montgomery, which are evocative, three-dimensional assemblages of rusty roadside bits and other everyday items designed to induce personal recollections in the observer.

The best time to visit the gallery is to catch openings on the first Friday of every month, held regularly from May to September. Various other showcases of feature artists also run from October to April every year. Located out of the usual pathways of every tourist and mainstream gallery hunter, situated in a rustic spot near railroad tracks, you’ll have to venture off the beaten path to find it, but that’s the true spirit of Glass Onion. When you want to experience something truly exciting in one of the most interesting parts of Vancouver, Glass Onion is quite the place to visit.

Phone: 604-258-4103

Robert Held Art Glass (Map)

Robert Held Art Glass

Being physical with colour and form is my love. After experimenting with many different media, I discovered glass and was instantly captivated. The clarity of the glass, the roar of the furnaces, the heat, and even the constant danger were all factors that influenced my choice of this difficult yet beautiful medium. I strive to create pieces that provide both a tactile and visual pleasure. It is through this experience that I can share my passion for glass with the world.

For over 25 years, Robert Held has led the Canadian art glass industry, establishing the first college-level art glass program and influencing the art across North America. His pieces are in the collections of royalty and governments and can be part of your home collection. Mr Held is truly one of the finest craftsmen in British Columbia, if not in the whole country. Using techniques that date back 2,000 years, Robert Held Art Glass continues to amaze — especially the new Crucible line of collectible vases crafted with dichroic glass and 24-carat-gold leafing. Robert’s glasswork graces the tables of royalty, and his glass sculptures can be found in major collections such as the Roland Michener and the Indusman. Robert Held Art Glass is still the biggest hot glass studio in Canada.

Website: www.robertheld.com
Email:
Phone: 888-786-9766 (Toll-free)

Galleries in Vancouver: Fine Craft

Post from: Vancouver REALTOR® Jay Banks

English Bay Sunset by Tony B

English Bay

English Bay is one of the most popular places to watch the sunset in Vancouver. The place where businessmen go after work to catch a bit of a fresh air, roller bladers whiz by in fluorescent spandex, mums take their children to watch them play in the sunshine, and people go to chill is also a place where you can catch the sunset photo of your life.

This place is not about seclusion or solitude. You go to English Bay to watch a sunset with hundreds of fellow Vancouverites — your whole family, your friends, all the people you care about. However, if you prefer a calmer place but you still want to be on English Bay, there is the landmark Inukshuk, just down the seawall. The Inukshuk is one of the places where a camera aimed at sunset should be obligatory. Sitting on a grassy hill with the monument standing in front of you as the sun goes down is an amazing experience.

Grouse Mountain

Grouse Mountain by Robert Nyman

The mountain is an ideal place to take your better half for dinner in the restaurant with one of the best views on the west coast. Be sure to make a reservation in the Observatory restaurant and enjoy the last beams of light while eating their marvellous red wine cured beef carpaccio or just making your life sweeter with champagne poached aldergrove rhubarb, which is, by the way, heavenly.

Cloud 9 Revolving Restaurant

Cloud 9 Revolving Restaurant is a very classy way to enjoy beautiful Vancouver sunsets. If you’re scared of heights, this one might be a bit of a challenge for you — at least it was for some of my friends who didn’t know better. Cloud 9 is like being on a cloud: it is hosted by Empire Landmark Hotel on the 42nd floor!

You can enjoy a stunning, 360-degree view of the city, and the experience is enhanced by outrageously huge windows. The restaurant is set up so that the seating area would make a slow turn around the base of the building. It is definitely worth going up during a sunset and seeing Vancouver in the midst of a purple and red sky. It’s well worth the pricey menu. You get what you pay for. The great prix-fixe menu that will save you some money.

Wreck Beach

Wreck Beach by Guilhem Vellut

The Seawall

To go for a run on the Seawall while the sun’s going down is one of the best things you can do in the summer evening. If you’re not a big fan of running, or you’re just feeling a bit lazier than usual, the Seawall is the perfect place for an evening walk.

If you take a camera with a tripod with you, you’ll have the opportunity to catch nice scenery with boats and Stanley Park in the background. Siting on the Seawall, with your feet dangling over the wall, all your worries magically disappear.

Cypress Provincial Park Highview

Cypress Provincial Park has two day-use/picnic areas. The Quarry picnic area has a large, grassy area with eleven picnic tables. Highview has a small, grassy area and six picnic tables. It’s the main lookout over Vancouver, the Fraser Valley, and the south end of Vancouver Island, and the view is jaw-dropping. Both the day-use areas have two pit toilets and picnic tables with barbecue attachments, but you have bring your own briquettes. There are no fire rings, and fires are not permitted. It will never cease to amaze me how beautiful Vancouver looks at sunset from this place. It’s just outside of downtown Vancouver, so it’s ideal for a little evening trip if you don’t want to visit Grouse Mountain.

Best Places to Watch the Sunset in Vancouver

Post from: Vancouver REALTOR® Jay Banks

Home sales in March stayed below the ten year average in Greater Vancouver while home listings reached higher numbers than expected. March 2012 sales were the second lowest total for the month in the Greater Vancouver region since 2002. These stayed 16.8 per cent below the ten year sales average for the month.

Eugen Klein, REBGV president, commented on the situation: “Home sellers have been more active than buyers the first few months of the year, but we continue to see a relative balance in the total supply of homes for sale and current demand in the marketplace. The total number of properties for sale in Greater Vancouver has increased each month since December, which means there’s more selection to choose from as we enter what’s traditionally the busiest season of the year in our market.”

Last month’s new listing total was 4.5 per cent above the ten year average for listings in Greater Vancouver for March. New listings for detached, attached, and apartment properties amounted to 5,843 — reaching a 5.2 per cent increase in growth compared to February, when new listings reached 5,552. This represents a 14 per cent decline compared to March 2011, when 6,797 homes were added to the MLS® in Greater Vancouver.

• Detached property sales on the MLS® (1,183 units) experienced a 34.1 per cent decrease compared to March 2011 ( 1,795 units) and a 11.5 per cent decline compared to March 2010 (1,336 units). The benchmark price increased 9.2 per cent from March 2011 to $1,056,400.

• Apartment property sales (1,191) declined 26.6 per cent compared to March 2011 (1,622) and 4.9 per cent compared to March 2010 (1,252) the benchmark price increased by 2.2 per cent from March 2011 to $375,100 .

• Town home property sales (500 units) experienced a 24.6 per cent decline compared to March 2011 (663 units) and a 8.9 per cent decrease compared to March 2010 (549 units). The benchmark price was raised by 0.9 per cent since March 2011 to $480,900 .

The MLS® HPI benchmark price for all residential properties in the Greater Vancouver Area has experienced a hardly noticeable growth of 5.3 per cent over the last year, climbing up to $679,000 since March 2011, and a miniature 1.1 per cent increase compared to February 2012. The benchmark price for all residential properties in the Lower Mainland is $ 607,700 — 4.8 per cent more than in March 2011.

Residential property sales reached 2,874 on the Multiple Listing Service®, increasing by 12.9 per cent compared to February’s 2,545. This represents a 29.6 per cent decline compared to March 2011 sales, which reached 4,080 and 8.4 per cent fall from the 3,137 home sales in March 2010. With 15,236, the total number of residential property listings on the MLS® increased by 8.4 per cent, compared to February 2012 and increased 16 per cent from this time last year.

Greater Vancouver Real Estate Market Results: March

Post from: Vancouver REALTOR® Jay Banks

Spring is in the air, and that also means it’s time for the annual ritual called spring cleaning. It’s hardly something we look forward to, but the sense of renewal that comes after is worth the effort. A good plan is the best place to start. It’s important to take as much time as necessary to do a little deep cleaning and preventive maintenance well beyond the routine tasks.

At one time, the whole process of spring cleaning involved a complete cleaning of every square inch of the home. Families would often spend many days creating that spring-fresh feeling. Today’s spring cleaning may not be as complicated, but there are still tasks that need to be performed to keep your home healthy.

Storing seasonal clothing, checking appliances, and controlling the clutter are necessary activities. Places like the garage, otherwise neglected, will also deserve some attention. Spring is a great time to inspect and clean window treatments, whether you need to pay attention to blinds, window casing, sills, or window hardware. Bedding and mattresses occasionally need to be inspected and cleaned as well. Use this time to check mattress pads and pillow covers. Take a few minutes to clean the ceiling fans. Whether you perform these tasks yourself or pay somebody else to do it, here are some useful tips for cleaning your place and getting ready for summer months.

Room by Room

The big cleaning job may become more straightforward, even fun, with a plan, a checklist, and a rewarding celebration, of course. One of the hardest parts is deciding what to tackle first. Create an action plan and assign tasks to family members, professionals, or friends willing to help. Hold a meeting and brainstorm. Don’t forget about rewards that will motivate everyone to do their best!

Don’t skip reading the labels of each product used to avoid accidents. Consider any special equipment that will be needed, and consider buying safety items like goggles or protective gloves. Children can ease your way by doing less demanding cleaning tasks that might be appropriate for them. However, some cleaning products should be kept out of their reach, so make sure to check the labels. Remember: safety is the priority.

Bathroom

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  Bathroom Cleaning by Melissa Barrett

  Get rid of expired cosmetics and medications. If you’re not sure about proper disposal of specific products, contact your local household hazardous waste collection centre or similar authority.
• Organize toiletries.
• Use a vacuum cleaner with an extension attachment and soft cloths to clean walls and ceilings. Determine the water resistance of all wall coverings before washing. For walls with a rough texture, use old nylon stockings instead of a sponge.
• Wash mirrors, other glass surfaces, and windows with suitable cloth.
• Clean the exterior of the toilet tank and base. Clean the bowl interior. Scrubbing products are recommended.
• Scrubbing products serve well in shower cleaning, too.
• Clean floors with a broom, vacuum cleaner, and sponge mop. Finish with a dry cleaner.

Bedroom

• Launder or dry-clean winter bedding and store. Special bags are great for minimizing storage space for off-season items.
• Wash curtains thoroughly to remove dust particles. Dry them outdoors and save energy while also getting a lovely, fresh smell.
• Wash mirrors and inside of windows. Vacuum and wipe walls and ceilings (the same procedures as in the bathroom).
• Shampoo or stem-clean carpets, area rugs, and upholstery.
• Be patient with taking all books and accessories off shelves and clean surfaces beneath.
• Toss or give away unwanted items. Consider donating to a shelter, hospital, or church.
• Make sure to clean any hard-to-reach spaces. This is vitally important to avoid dust mites.
• Protect your wood furniture with a moisturizing furniture polish. Harsh winter conditions could easily cause it to dry and possibly crack. Use a soft cloth.

Home Office

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  Home Office by Bruno De Regge

  Treat curtains, windows, walls, ceilings, carpets, and rugs as in previous rooms.
• Clean out files. Shred papers you no longer need. Review and update contracts.
• Properly dispose of or give away any unwanted software, hardware, or electronics. Donate working items that are no longer necessary for you. Look for information regarding e-waste recycling centres in your area.

Kitchen

• Clean your refrigerator, freezer, oven, and microwave. Don’t forget about interiors and racks. You can try putting lemon juice in the microwave. Heat water to boil for couple of minutes, and the steam will loosen food particles stuck to the interior. The citric acid in the juice also helps with grease.
• Dust the tops of cabinets and refrigerator, cookbooks, and cookbook shelves. Give away any items you’re not using.
• Clean and polish counters, drawers, and shelves.
• Reorganize pantries, cabinets, drawers, and racks so you can find everything quickly.
• Sweep, vacuum, and mop floors. Save this task for your last in the room.

Living Room

• Replace heavy, cold-weather fabrics with lighter ones.
• Clean out your fireplace for the season. To keep the dust down, sprinkle damp coffee grounds over the fireplace ashes. Gently scrub the walls of the firebox with a stiff-bristle brush. Vacuum up only after you’ve removed the ashes. You can easily clean the fireplace tools by dipping fine-grade steel wool into vegetable oil and rubbing the tools gently.

Outdoors

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  Spring Cleanup by Dave Parker

  Remove, wash, and store storm windows.
• Wash outside of windows and rinse removable screens.
• Scrub, brush, mop, and apply detergent to porch ceilings, floors, and walls.
• Replace broken bricks or flagstones.
• Clean gutters and rain spouts.
• Scrub outdoor furniture, umbrellas, and awnings.
• Clean garage. Get rid of unwanted items and organize containers with tools. Sweep and wash the floor.
• Check your outdoor lighting and sprinkler system. Consider buying energy-efficient, solar-powered outdoor lighting.
• Trim and remove dead tree limbs. Do some basic landscaping repairs on the lawn, shrubbery, and plants. Give some attention to the exterior doors, fence, and exterior repairs. Lawn maintenance or pest prevention might need to be performed as well. Consult a professional if necessary.

Using Homemade Cleaning Products

The variety of supplies stocked in the cleaning aisles of stores can be overwhelming. If you are tempted to clean out the local store of all the cleaning “wonders,” consider alternatives that are definitely cheaper and in many cases more efficient and healthy.

Instead of glass cleaner from the store, you can make your own recipe with a few ingredients. Carefully mix together one cup of rubbing alcohol, one cup of water, and a tablespoon of vinegar. Put them into a new, empty spray bottle (do not reuse an old one), label as glass cleaner, and keep safely stored out of reach of pets and curious children. Homemade glass cleaner can compete with the cleaning products of big brands, and this powerful mixture of alcohol and vinegar can be also used to shine hard tiles, chrome, and similar materials.

Other ingredients of homemade cleaning products include baking soda, which works well for surfaces that need gentle scrubbing. It’s also effective in removing smelly odours — that’s why it can be useful for bathroom and kitchen cleaning. Baking soda removes stains and softens laundry, too.

• Essential oils add a pleasant scent to homemade solutions, but be careful, as a little goes a long way.
• Lemons are great for scrubbing copper-bottom pots and the lemon juice, a natural bleach, works in cleaning pans.
• Salt can help you to get rid of rust and mildew, as well as polish copper and silver.
• Silver can be alternatively cleaned with toothpaste, which can be also used to remove stains on white clothing or white shoes — simply anywhere where a light scrubbing is needed.
• Vinegar is a fabric softener and serves well when put in the rinse cycle of the washing machine. Mopping with this great all-purpose cleaner is an inexpensive way to keep floors clean. Carefully combined with baking soda, it makes a great foaming toilet cleaner.
• Hydrogen peroxide is a disinfectant and one of the most effective blood stain removers.

Cleaning Professionals

Vancouver Carpet Cleaning

Having a cleaning service isn’t a luxury anymore. Hiring some cleaning help can be a way to balance your busy life and get more leisure time. A cleaning service provides professional assistance that can be invaluable — especially when you tackle some serious problems. Having a consistently clean house prevents insect infestations, clears clutter, and avoids potential fire hazards. The offer in Vancouver is rich and differentiated. Below are listed some of the numerous companies that can help you:

AspenClean

AspenClean, a West-Vancouver-based company and maid service, is well recognized due to its extensive offer of cleaning services. If you’re looking for an “eco-friendly” option, AspenClean may be the right choice. Its owner, Alica Sokolowski, explains that their goal is to remove bottles of chemical-based cleaning products from people’s homes and provide them with a sustainable alternative that works “just as well — or even better.“

Vancouver Carpet Cleaning

A company that specializes in carpet cleaning since 1985, Vancouver Carpet Cleaning nowadays offers more than that. It uses natural cleaning products as well, mainly lemon-based. Whether it’s your carpet, upholstery, air conditioning, or duct that needs professional help after winter, you should try calling them.

Molly Maid

Molly Maid is often proclaimed to be the best cleaning service in the whole of Vancouver. The company emphasizes the importance of keeping the environment in mind, and their Green Housekeeping program has been extremely successful. Molly Maid’s website also includes valuable information on topics related to spring cleaning, such as green cleaning tips or simple solutions for spring cleaning.

"Well done is better than well said."

Once the last checkbox has been ticked and your house is gleaming from roof to basement, celebrate a job well done. It’s sure to be a well earned spring bonus!

Spring Cleaning and Maintenance

Post from: Vancouver REALTOR® Jay Banks