Theodora Gannon : eXp Realty : Blog

New property listed in Quay, New Westminster

Posted on March 24, 2026 by Theodora Gannon

Posted in Quay, New Westminster Real Estate

New property listed in Quay, New Westminster

I have listed a new property at 1502 1250 Quayside Drive in New Westminster. See details here

Unobstructed Fraser River views from this bright & spacious 2 bed, 2 bath home offering over 1,000 sq ft of well-designed living space. This residence showcases breathtaking, ever-changing waterfront scenery w/excellent natural light, a functional layout, engineered hardwood floors, granite counters, S/S appliances, open living & dining areas, generously sized bedrooms, a gas fireplace & lots of storage. Located in The Promenade, a well-maintained, rain screened & re-piped building, providing long-term peace of mind. Enjoy resort-style amenities: an indoor swimming pool, hot tub & gym, steps to Westminster Quay, the boardwalk, parks, shops, restaurants, & transit. Short walk to Skytrain. Waterfront living at its finest!

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New GST Rebate for First time Buyers in BC 2026

Posted on March 19, 2026 by Brad & Theo

If you’re a first-time home buyer in British Columbia, there’s a major new incentive in 2026 that could save you tens of thousands of dollars when buying a newly built home.

Let’s break down exactly how the new GST rebate works, who qualifies, and how much you could save.

What Is the New GST Rebate?

As of 2026, the federal government introduced a new First-Time Home Buyer GST Rebate that can significantly reduce — or even eliminate — the 5% GST on new homes.

In BC, GST applies to new construction only (not resale homes). That includes:

New condos
Townhomes
Detached homes
Substantially renovated homes

The new rebate is a huge upgrade from the old system, which only offered limited savings.

How Much Can You Save?

✅ Full Rebate (Best Case)

Homes priced up to $1,000,000
100% of the 5% GST is rebated
Maximum savings: up to $50,000

Example:

$900,000 new condo
GST = $45,000
You pay $0 GST after rebate

⚖️ Partial Rebate

Homes priced between $1,000,000 and $1,500,000
Rebate is gradually reduced

Example:

$1,250,000 home
Approx. $25,000 rebate (about half)

❌ No Rebate

Homes priced $1,500,000+
No GST rebate available

Who Qualifies as a First-Time Home Buyer?

This is where most people get confused — and where details really matter.

To qualify, you must meet ALL of the following:

1️⃣ You haven’t owned a home recently

You must not have lived in a home you owned in the past 4 years

👉 This is called the “4-year rule”
👉 Even if you owned before, you may still qualify if enough time has passed

2️⃣ You must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident

Temporary residents (work permits, student visas) do NOT qualify

3️⃣ You must be at least 18 years old

4️⃣ The home must be your primary residence

You must intend to live in the property (not rent it out)

5️⃣ If buying with a partner — BOTH must qualify

If one person is not a first-time buyer, the rebate is lost entirely

Important Conditions (Most Buyers Miss These)

📅 Purchase Date Matters

Must have signed a purchase agreement on or after March 20, 2025

🏗 Applies to New Homes Only

This rebate does NOT apply to resale homes

⏳ Program Timeline

Available for a limited time (through ~2030)

Why This Matters for Buyers in Vancouver & BC

This rebate can dramatically change affordability.

Example in Vancouver:

$800,000 pre-sale condo
GST = $40,000
New rebate = $40,000 savings

That’s often the difference between:

Qualifying for a mortgage
Or not qualifying at all

Key Takeaways

💰 Save up to $50,000 in GST
🏡 Applies only to new construction homes
📉 Full rebate under $1M, partial up to $1.5M
👥 Strict first-time buyer rules (4-year rule + both buyers must qualify)
📅 Must purchase after March 20, 2025

Final Thoughts

This is one of the most impactful incentives for first-time buyers in years — especially in high-priced markets like Vancouver.

If you’re considering:

A pre-sale condo
A new townhome
Or a new detached home

…it’s worth looking closely at how this rebate could apply to you.

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New property listed in Barber Street, Port Moody

Posted on February 26, 2026 by Theodora Gannon

Posted in Barber Street, Port Moody Real Estate

New property listed in Barber Street, Port Moody

I have listed a new property at 3 Crawford Bay in Port Moody. See details here

Perched above Burrard Inlet, this 1975 West Coast classic captures sweeping, unobstructed ocean views from both levels. This 4 bdrm + den, 4 bath home offers cedar accents, soaring ceilings, expansive windows & a timeless design. The vaulted living space frames the water like artwork, while the functional layout offers 3 beds, 2 baths & a bright, open kitchen that leads to an entertainer's yard. Two front decks beg for morning coffees & sunset dinners while soaking in the views. The lower level has a modern 1+den, 2 bath walk-out suite for family or guests w/its own side yard. Peaceful & private, this property has incredible long-term investment with subdivision potential. Dbl garage, newer roof. A rare opportunity on one of Pt Moody's most coveted view streets. OPEN SUN, MAR 1, 1-3 PM.

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New property listed in Mount Pleasant VE, Vancouver East

Posted on February 25, 2026 by Theodora Gannon

Posted in Mount Pleasant VE, Vancouver East Real Estate

New property listed in Mount Pleasant VE, Vancouver East

I have listed a new property at 2761 Guelph Street in Vancouver. See details here

Welcome to The Block, a family-friendly community in the heart of Mt Pleasant—right across from Nightingale Elementary. This inviting & well-maintained 2 bedroom plus flex room townhome offers space to grow, with the flex room serving as a home office or easily converted to a 3rd bedroom. The open-concept main floor features a stylish kitchen with S/S appliances, gas range & granite counters. Upstairs is a bedroom plus flex, and the top floor hosts the serene primary suite with W/I closet & balcony. Quiet and secure, facing the inner courtyard, this home includes 2 parking & a locker. The highlight? An INCREDIBLE rooftop deck with amazing city & mountain views—perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Steps to Main St shops, restaurants, buses & future Skytrain. OPEN SUN, MAR 1, 1-3 PM.

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Rent vs. Buying in Burnaby. Where are we now?

Posted on February 13, 2026 by Brad & Theo

Over the past year, both rents and condo sale prices have softened in Greater Vancouver, so we wanted to see what a real “rent vs. buy” looks like today using two near-identical Metrotown-area examples:

Rent example: 6700 Dunblane Ave (≈550 sq ft, 30th floor) renting for $2,150/mo
Buy example: 1507–6468 Willingdon Ave (534 sq ft, 15th floor) sold Dec 2025 for $589,000

Assumptions (Buy Scenario)

Mortgage rate: 3.95%
Amortization: 25 years
Down payment: 20% ($117,800)
Mortgage amount: $471,200
Strata fee: $295/month
Property taxes + basic insurance: estimated ~$300/month

Monthly Comparison

Item	Rent: 6700 Dunblane	Buy: 1507–6468 Willingdon
Size	~550 sq ft	534 sq ft
Monthly rent	$2,150	—
Mortgage payment (3.95%, 25 yrs)	—	~$2,474
Strata fee	Included in rent	$295
Property tax + insurance	Included in rent	~$300 (est.)
Total Monthly Cost	$2,150	~$3,070
Difference (Own – Rent)		~$920 more to own

Does the Equity Built Offset the ~$920/month Gap?

If ownership costs about $920 more per month, that equals approximately:

~$55,000 over 5 years
~$110,000 over 10 years

Estimated principal paydown (equity built from the mortgage alone):

~$61,000 after 5 years
~$136,000 after 10 years

So even with the updated strata fee, the equity built still exceeds the additional monthly cash outlay over both 5 and 10 years — before considering any market appreciation.

What Price Would Equalize Monthly Costs?

With today’s rate, strata fee of $295, and ownership expenses included, the condo would likely need to sell under ~$400,000 for total monthly ownership costs to align with the $2,150 rent.

This comparison gives some perspective on where prices could move in a more extreme correction scenario — and also explains why renting feels cheaper today while long-term buyers focus on equity growth and time in the market.

How does this compare to other major international cities?

A quick way to compare rent vs. buy pressure across cities is the price-to-rent ratio (higher usually means buying is “more expensive” relative to renting). Numbeo’s current Price to Rent Ratio (City Centre) shows:

City (City Centre)	Price-to-rent ratio (approx.)	What it suggests
New York	20.3	Lower ratio (renting relatively expensive vs prices)
Vancouver	21.1	Similar pressure to NYC on this metric
Sydney	23.9	Buying relatively pricier vs rent than Vancouver/NYC
London	30.7	Much pricier to buy relative to rent
Singapore	37.3	Very high “buy vs rent” stretch

For context, our Metrotown example implies a price-to-rent ratio around ~22.8 (589,000 ÷ (2,150×12)), which puts it closer to Vancouver/NYC/Sydney than the much higher-ratio cities like London or Singapore.

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I have sold a property at 4110 PENTICTON Street in Vancouver

Posted on January 29, 2026 by Theodora Gannon

Posted in Renfrew Heights, Vancouver East Real Estate

I have sold a property at 4110 PENTICTON Street in Vancouver on Aug 31, 2005. See details here

Great neighbourhood. Conveniently located 3 level custom built home on quiet street in Renfrew Heights. Steps to Skytrain, schools & rec centre. Enjoy 4 bdrms & 4 bathrooms (inc 2 ensuites), H/W radiant heat, double car garage w/back lane access. Beautiful mtn view & private fenced yard. Wonderful for a single family.

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I have sold a property at 2505 7178 COLLIER Street in Burnaby

Posted on January 29, 2026 by Theodora Gannon

Posted in VBSMD, Burnaby South Real Estate

I have sold a property at 2505 7178 COLLIER Street in Burnaby on May 30, 2006. See details here

Less than 1 year old condo at Bosa built "Arcadia" Highgate Village. Panoramic v iews of Northshore Mountains & Downtown. 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 private balconie s, top quality Java-stained yellow birch hardwood, upgraded stainless fridge/stove & granite countertops, don't miss this one!

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I have sold a property at 4136 DOMINION Street in Burnaby

Posted on January 29, 2026 by Theodora Gannon

Posted in Central BN, Burnaby North Real Estate

I have sold a property at 4136 DOMINION Street in Burnaby on Apr 11, 2006. See details here

SOLID HOME WITH 4 BEDROOMS AND DEN. MANY UPDATES INCLUDING KITCHEN, BATHROOM, DO UBLE GLAZED WINDOWS AND NEW LAMINATE FLOOR IN BASEMENT. BEAUTIFUL HARDWOOD WITH INLAY THROUGHOUT MAIN FLOOR. COVERED SUNDECK AND ROOMY BACKYARD. THIS HOME FEATURES 3 FULL BATHROOMS AND DESIGNER PAINT. CLOSE TO BCIT, #1 HWY, VANCOUVER, TENNIS, BURNABY HOSPITAL, COSTCO AND MORE. A MUST SEE!!

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I have sold a property at 767 KING EDWARD Avenue W in Vancouver

Posted on January 29, 2026 by Theodora Gannon

Posted in Cambie, Vancouver West Real Estate

I have sold a property at 767 KING EDWARD Avenue W in Vancouver on Mar 18, 2006. See details here

Great value for this neighborhood! Beautiful new Brazilian Cherry hardwood on ma in floor. 4 bedrooms with 3 bathrooms upstairs. Spacious kitchen with adjoining family room. Large recreation room downstairs with wet bar, perfect for billiards or ping pong. Convenient central location near future Downtown & Richmond skytrain. 4-car garage at rear. Partial mountain/city view from rear.

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I have sold a property at 2778 6TH Avenue E in Vancouver

Posted on January 29, 2026 by Theodora Gannon

Posted in Renfrew VE, Vancouver East Real Estate

I have sold a property at 2778 6TH Avenue E in Vancouver on Oct 4, 2005. See details here

This home will charm you from the moment you drive up. New cedar fence surrounds the property with remote electronic gate opener in rear. Refinished hardwood and a stylish paint job greets you as you walk in the front. 2 bdrms up with new carpet & paint. The kitchen has been completely remodelled with maple cabinets

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I have sold a property at 401 1050 BURRARD Street in Vancouver

Posted on January 29, 2026 by Theodora Gannon

Posted in Downtown VW, Vancouver West Real Estate

I have sold a property at 401 1050 BURRARD Street in Vancouver on Aug 15, 2005. See details here

SPECTACULAR WALL CENTRE! Rarely available '01' suite with fantastic layout. This 1160 sq ft 2 bedroom and den has updated laminate floors, floor to ceiling windows overlooking lush greenery, a balcony, and separate laundry room. Access is available to health club with pool and spa, exercise room and room service.

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I have sold a property at 8868 16TH Avenue in Burnaby

Posted on January 29, 2026 by Theodora Gannon

Posted in The Crest, Burnaby East Real Estate

I have sold a property at 8868 16TH Avenue in Burnaby on Nov 8, 2006. See details here

Luxurious duplex-style townhome with space glore! Spotles throughout with high c eilings on main

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I have sold a property at 7388 SANDBORNE Avenue in Burnaby

Posted on January 29, 2026 by Theodora Gannon

Posted in South Slope, Burnaby South Real Estate

I have sold a property at 7388 SANDBORNE Avenue in Burnaby on Nov 13, 2006. See details here

Absolutely gorgeous VIEW suite at Mayfair Place at 'City in the Park'. This imma culate 2 bedroom & family room corner unit boasts breathtaking Southwest views o f the Gulf Island

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I have sold a property at 32766 OKANAGAN Drive in Abbotsford

Posted on January 29, 2026 by Theodora Gannon

Posted in Abbotsford West, Abbotsford Real Estate

I have sold a property at 32766 OKANAGAN Drive in Abbotsford on Jul 6, 2006. See details here

Great layout and location make this rancher w/bsmt home a winner. Open living/di ning room on main with 3 bedrooms. Lots of space downstairs. 2 car garage and fe nced backyard.

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I have sold a property at 1507 6611 SOUTHOAKS Crescent in Burnaby

Posted on January 29, 2026 by Theodora Gannon

Posted in VBSMD, Burnaby South Real Estate

I have sold a property at 1507 6611 SOUTHOAKS Crescent in Burnaby on Sep 29, 2006. See details here

Unobstructed 180 degree mountain views at this seldom available 2 bedrooms suite at Gemini I by Bosa. Well cared for with 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, formal dining room, breakfast nook and lots of closet space. Every room has stunning views, tasteful designer paint and access to the unbelievably huge private balcony. Enjoy 2 side by side parking stalls and great amenities. Minutes to skytrain and bus, Highgate Village & Metrotown. Ready for you to move in!

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I have sold a property at 7388 MACPHERSON Avenue in Burnaby

Posted on January 29, 2026 by Theodora Gannon

Posted in Metrotown, Burnaby South Real Estate

I have sold a property at 7388 MACPHERSON Avenue in Burnaby on Oct 26, 2006. See details here

Brand new two bedroom at Acacia Gardens. Gourmet kitchen with natural wood cabin ets, stainless steel appliances, gas range, granite countertops, and under cabin et lighting. Lots of natural light and windows in living room overlook a spacious front yard. Private entry, underground parking and much more... NO GST! Priced to sell.

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I have sold a property at 7501 CUMBERLAND Street in Burnaby

Posted on January 29, 2026 by Theodora Gannon

Posted in East Burnaby, Burnaby East Real Estate

I have sold a property at 7501 CUMBERLAND Street in Burnaby on Jan 22, 2007. See details here

Lovely end unit in Deerfield! Newer high end laminate throughout this stunning t ownhome. Lots of natural light and designer paint make this home a 10! Beautiful front yard, family room and eating area and deck off kitchen. Newer fridge/stove. Large master bdrm w/ double sink in ensuite. Lovely views from 2nd and 3rd bedrooms. Viewings by appointment only. Call before it's gone.

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I have sold a property at 935 EWEN Avenue in NEW WESTMINSTER

Posted on January 29, 2026 by Theodora Gannon

Posted in Queensborough, New Westminster Real Estate

I have sold a property at 935 EWEN Avenue in NEW WESTMINSTER on Apr 14, 2007. See details here

Gorgeous townhome at Cooper's landing. You'll love the modern design, large kitc hen with stainless appliances, granite countertops and sit-up bar. 3 bedrooms up , 2 bathrooms and tons of storage space. Located in quiet part of complex and only minutes to Queensborough Landing shopping district.

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I have sold a property at 7312 MONTECITO Drive in Burnaby

Posted on January 29, 2026 by Theodora Gannon

Posted in Montecito, Burnaby North Real Estate

I have sold a property at 7312 MONTECITO Drive in Burnaby on Feb 8, 2007. See details here

Solid 4 level home on 62 x 132 lot in prime Montecito area. Your family will lov e the huge rec room, 3 fireplaces, spacious south facing backyard, tons of stora ge and central location. Double detached garage and easy care landscaping (with palm trees!) are sure to please. Only minutes to golf, schools and SFU.

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I have sold a property at 7178 COLLIER Street in Burnaby

Posted on January 29, 2026 by Theodora Gannon

Posted in VBSMD, Burnaby South Real Estate

I have sold a property at 7178 COLLIER Street in Burnaby on Jan 27, 2007. See details here

Experience urban village living at its finest with this 2 bedroom plus flex spac e at popular Highgate Village. Spotless corner unit featuring satin maple floors , granite countertops, well-appointed bedrooms, and two balconies. Fantastic views and the convenience of shopping, banking, and restaurants only steps away! Best priced 1,000 sqft unit in building.

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Your Metrotown Real Estate Experts

What Is the New GST Rebate?

How Much Can You Save?

✅ Full Rebate (Best Case)

⚖️ Partial Rebate

❌ No Rebate

Who Qualifies as a First-Time Home Buyer?

1️⃣ You haven’t owned a home recently

2️⃣ You must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident

3️⃣ You must be at least 18 years old

4️⃣ The home must be your primary residence

5️⃣ If buying with a partner — BOTH must qualify

Important Conditions (Most Buyers Miss These)

📅 Purchase Date Matters

🏗 Applies to New Homes Only

⏳ Program Timeline

Why This Matters for Buyers in Vancouver & BC

Key Takeaways

Final Thoughts

Assumptions (Buy Scenario)

Monthly Comparison

Does the Equity Built Offset the ~$920/month Gap?

What Price Would Equalize Monthly Costs?

How does this compare to other major international cities?

Brad & Theo Gannon