Appearing last week on CTV News, Andrew Hasman spoke on the seller’s market currently developing in Vancouver. As reported, a charming luxury home in Shaughnessy sold for almost 3 million dollars over the assessment price, but this trend is present everywhere in the market.

What experts are calling a “buying frenzy” for luxury homes is pushing up real estate prices; Andrew Hasman appeared on CTV News to comment:

“It’s all about location.”

A house currently listed by Andrew Hasman, slated as a tear-down near Jericho beach has the chance to become hugely profitable. Strategically listing houses below what they’re worth increases interest on the part of buyers, essentially creating an auction.  

“The idea here, is it’s listed at $338,800 and it should go for over that price. As to where it’s going to end up, we’ll let the market decide.”

A similar phenomenon exists in Toronto,  named the fastest growing luxury housing market in the world, which like Vancouver, is fueled in part by foreign buyers. All of this draws more attention to Vancouver’s luxury home show held this past weekend, which means more attentiont to the luxury home market, and the cycle continues. If you are a homeowner looking to sell in vancouver, now is the time!

It is impossible not to be drawn out of Vancouver to enjoy the natural beauty surrounding our wonderful city. Whether you’re spending a day with your family taking a short hike, or lounging lake-side, there are innumerable options to choose from – thankfully, many of these are much closer than you might think.

Here are 5 quintessentially west-coast day trips for your next sunny Sunday, all under two-hours from Downtown:

1. Steveston Village, Richmond

2. Deep Cove, North Vancouver

Nestled in the North Shore Mountains, Deep Cove is a delightful mix of an outdoor sports enthusiast’s paradise, and a family friendly spot for a picnic and light hike. Offering Kayaking, mountain biking, and hiking trails of varying length and difficulty, Deep Cove has something for everyone. Honourable mention to Honey’s Donuts - after a long paddle, these donuts will tempt even the most dedicated health enthusiasts.  

3. Alice Lake Provincial Park

Past Shannon Falls on the Sea to Sky high-way, Alice Lake is a provincial park and campground that proves why so many Canadians flock to the forest in the summer months. Enjoy camping, canoeing, lake side sun-bathing and swimming all just 1hr 20mins from Vancouver. On your drive up, the breath taking views off the Sea to Sky highway will tempt you to stop for a picture or two.  

4. Belcarra Regional Park

Just 50 minutes out of Vancouver is Belcarra Regional Park. Located at the entrance to Indian Arm, you can enjoy short walks along the shore-line, as well as swimming in Sasamat Lake. Belcarra offers a variety of sights and activities, and all in perfect proximity to the city.

5. Sea to Summit Trail

For something more rigorous, check out the Sea to Summit hiking trail, which climbs the back side of the famous Stawamus Chief rock-climbing site. This 900 metre climb is intermediate, but views of Howe Sound, Sky Pilot and the surrounding mountain peaks will make the effort more than worth-while. Be sure to bring lots of water and a power bar or two as this hike can take up to 5 hours.