As a heritage building that wouldn’t be out of place for a scene when some dwarfs and wizards come knocking for a quest, the Hobbit House, as it’s known nowadays, is one of the most distinctive houses in the Lower Mainland.

RELATED: This Hobbit House Airbnb Looks Like It Came Straight Out Of Lord Of The Rings

In 2017, the Hobbit House made headlines when its happy ending was put into jeopardy after it was put on the market for $2.9 million. With developers itching to construct high-density complexes near the Canada Line SkyTrain stations along the Cambie corridor. The fate of the Hobbit House was on shaky ground.

Thankfully, the developer that eventually bought it incorporated its restoration within rezoning plans for a 20-unit townhouse complex. This allowed for the history behind Vancouver’s Hobbit House to remain for future generations

About the Hobbit House History

As a 75-year-old building, almost half as old as our country, here is the history behind Vancouver’s Hobbit House.

The Vancouver Hobbit House is one of three residential properties conceived by a builder by the name of Brenton Lea and designed by architect Ross Anthony Lort. Lea originally hired Lort in the 1940s to design a residence on Broadway for Lea’s family that would look like a Tudor cottage from the time of Shakespeare.

After it was completed in 1942, Lea asked Lort to design a similar house on King Edward for a foreman from the Canadian National Railway. Lort then designed a third hobbit house in West Vancouver, before getting around to another heritage home, the Casa Mia on Southwest Marine. All three hobbit houses still stand, notwithstanding restoration and upkeep.

Although it seems like an architectural eccentricity in the history of Vancouver, the Hobbit House is part of the Provincial Revivalism style popular in North America between the First and Second World Wars. Appealing to a North American sense of home as a cozy sanctuary of domesticity, Vancouver would be a double of the Shire if demand kept up.

Designed in the style of an English cottage, the Hobbit House is built entirely from Canadian materials. Its remarkable wavy roof is made of steam-bent cedar shingles, a decidedly West Coast take on thatched roofs. To get a sense of the quality of the craftsmanship, to restore this roof today would cost in the hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Since the 1940s, the Hobbit House on King Edward has switched hands once in the 1970s when a doctor and wife purchased the property, and again in 2013 by a townhouse developer who purchased it.

The Hobbit House on King Edward may be the most fully realized vision of this architectural quirk from yesteryear. It appears there are some who are supporting the Middle-earth aesthetic, as this single-family residence has already been bought. Go figure.

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For more history stories, check out our History section.

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Concord Pacific’s Brentwood development in Burnaby will have a 26-acre Oasis. Featuring a 120,000 sq ft outdoor beach inspired by resorts.

RELATED: People Are Comparing The New Downtown Chilliwack to Disney World

Oasis at Concord Brentwood

Situated in the bustling neighborhood of Brentwood, you’ll find Concord Pacific’s latest development. Oasis is a serene oasis with resort-like amenities, all within easy reach of.

Residents will be able to enjoy a 400m running track, gardens, and a lounging area with a lagoon.

Oasis by Concord Pacific is set to be completed by early 2027, offering 900+ residences and street-level retail spaces.

Take a look inside

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Once upon a time, there were a litany of impressive, grand homes like it in Vancouver’s West End; however, it is the last of its kind.

A relic of times long gone, this Victorian structure seems mildly out of place. Built at the turn of the 20th century, the home exudes mystery. As a result, it isn’t hard to fathom why the abode has been the centre of many paranormal tales.

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Standing at 1523 Davie Street, the home is the site of numerous ghost sightings, every year. In fact, many people say that they’ve seen ghosts in the window. Further, many claim they’ve seen multiple ghosts in the residence.

When the mansion was a restaurant, for example, staff claim they encountered ghosts on a regular basis. Further, they claim that utensils, such as cutlery, actually floated in the air.

 

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What’s more, the site was also the site of a horrific murder in 2016. Specifically, the body of a Japanese Student named Natsumi Kogawa was found inside.

Haunted Gabriola House

Interestingly, the home was built by the founder of B.C. Sugar, B.T. Rogers. After he passed away, the home was converted into an apartment building. Following that, the residence was converted into a restaurant called Romano’s Macaroni Grill. Since shutting down, the home sat vacant for many years.

 

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Unfortunately for horror fans, this haunted home was sold for a whopping $6.72 million in 2021. The long-standing mansion will be converted into a rental condos and townhouses put in its place.

Update: While the home is being converted, final plans do not include tearing down the structure. Instead, the building will undergo renovations.

Interested in some more spooky tales? Be sure to check out Vancouver’s creepiest urban legends!

The post This Mansion Is Considered One Of The Most Haunted Places In Vancouver appeared first on 604 Now.

The project is set to transform the currently empty lot at 5820 Marine Dr. (formerly Marine Pub) into a vibrant new community space.

The upcoming project three-story shopping complex will house various businesses, making it an exciting addition to the South Burnaby community.

It will include space for 8 retailers, 7 restaurants, and 18 office spaces.

Its location on Marine Drive will make it easy to access the street-level restaurants, offering a diverse range of food choices in a clean and spacious environment.

The plaza’s design draws inspiration from European architecture, featuring Roman stone pillars and charming exteriors. It will also have an underground parking lot, providing convenience for customers and businesses alike.

At the center of the plaza, there will be a beautiful courtyard surrounded by terraced gardens, creating a pleasant outdoor space for gatherings and relaxation.

On the lower level, you’ll find eight retail spaces with views of the terraced garden, while the top floor will house 18 office spaces.

Fountana Plaza will also incorporate environmentally friendly features, including Electric Vehicle (EV) charging stations in the 2 levels of underground parking.

The second floor will host seven restaurant spaces, with romantic architectural elements and modern amenities. Additionally, there are plans for a high-end restaurant that aims to attract a diverse clientele.

The development is estimated to be completed in 2025.

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One area that often gets overlooked during these renovations is .

Why you should upgrade your windows and doors

Upgrading windows and doors offers significant benefits. Not only does these enhance the aesthetics of your home, they also provide long-term savings on energy bills. 

The upgrades almost always outweighs the initial investment. 

 

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Energy-efficient windows minimize heat transfer, reducing the need for excessive heating or cooling and lowering energy consumption. 

These upgrades also make your home more appealing to potential buyers and increase its market value.

How to save big with Ecoline Windows Vancouver

There are currently multiple government programs available to Metro Vancouver residents. It can help save you up to $9,500 on new windows and doors.

Although the programs and applications process may seem complicated to apply for, partnering with a trusted company makes everything easier.

 

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With locations across Canada, is one of the most reputable Canadian manufacturers that has earned the trust of customers nationwide. Their products are produced, sold and installed strictly across Canada. All their windows and doors are Energy Star rated, and qualify for maximum government rebates.

To make the process easy, their website offers a to assess eligibility, detailed rebate amounts and everything needed to qualify.

Government Rebates, Grants & Loans 

Here are four government programs offered that can help you save big on your new windows and doors.

CleanBC Income Qualified Program Rebates 

The for Windows and Doors are income-based. 

• For Level 1, you can receive 95% of eligible upgrade costs, with a maximum rebate of $9,500 per home. 
• For Level 2, you can receive 60% of eligible upgrade costs, also up to a maximum of $9,500 per home. 

Canada Greener Homes Grant

The offers up to $5,600 in grants for the replacement of windows and doors. 

This federal program provides up to $5,000 in grants for eligible products. It offers $125 for each regular window, sliding or hinged door, and $250 for the most energy-efficient models.

Additionally, homeowners can receive up to $600 in reimbursement for pre- and post-retrofit EnerGuide home evaluations. This helps cover a portion of the total costs.

BC Hydro Rebate

This is also known as the .  The program offers a rebate of $100 per window or door, with a maximum rebate amount of $2,000. 

This rebate is available throughout British Columbia, except for the residents within the City of Vancouver. 

Canada Greener Homes Loan

The is a federal initiative that offers a loan for eligible homeowners. The loan amount ranges from a minimum of $5,000 to a maximum of $40,000. 

Repayment of the loan is spread over a 10-year term, and the best part is that it is interest-free. 

How to start saving with Ecoline

If you need help understanding whether you are eligible for the rebate, or on how to apply, Ecoline can assist you every step of the way.

Simply give them a call at 778-488-9356 or and they can give you a free quote along with information on savings in the matter of minutes. 

Their team will help homeowners apply for rebates, prepare the needed docs, and choose the right products so they can claim the maximum amount of provincial rebates. Their experienced team will also install your windows and doors, making it easy for homeowners to invest in energy-efficient and eco-friendly products. 

There’s never been a better time to upgrade your windows and doors while maximizing your savings—it’s a win-win situation for both your home and your wallet.

This article was proofread by Matan Korin, a window expert from Ecoline.

For more local stories, check out our Real Estate section.

The post 4 Rebates To Save $9,500 On New Windows + Doors in Vancouver Right Now appeared first on 604 Now.

The West Coast Estates , ranging from studios starting at $300,000 to two-bedroom and den homes starting from under $600,000. 

The affordable pricing of these condos in a seaside community with entertainment, great shopping, and restaurants within walking distance is simply unheard of in Metro Vancouver.

As a result, it’s no surprise that 50% of the units have already been sold.

The Homes

The interiors range from 353 to 879 square feet and feature an understated elegance with contemporary details such as large windows, over-height ceilings, wide plank laminate flooring, spa-inspired bathrooms with semi-frameless showers, and generous balconies with either stunning ocean or mountain views.

The kitchens are a chef’s delight, with Energy Star stainless steel appliances, sleek flat-paneled and Shaker door cabinetry, quartz countertops, and ceramic tile backsplash.

The community also boasts common meeting places for all residents to gather while enjoying the outdoors. There will be two new parks and greenway connectors linking to 66 km of trails along the beautiful seaside coastline. In addition, there’s a children’s playground and pickleball courts.

Location

The Executive Group’s master plan also focuses on building a sense of accessibility. 

The prime location is perfectly positioned, with quick and convenient access to major routes, making it only 15 minutes to Richmond, 19 minutes to Vancouver, and 25 minutes to the Vancouver International Airport (YVR).

The world-class Tsawwassen Springs golf course and resort are also just two minutes away, making it a golfer’s paradise.

West Coast Estates Availability

Although the row homes are sold out, West Coast Estates still has a few gorgeous townhomes and single-family homes available, which are move-in ready later this year. 

The sales center and vignette are located at 2008 Osprey Drive, Tsawwassen, open daily from 11 to 4 p.m. 

Book your private appointment today by calling (604) 800-9099, emailing info@livewce.com or .

Completion is slated for mid-2025.

This is branded content brought to you by Executive Group Development. For more stories like this, visit our Real Estate section.

The post These Seaside Condos Are Only 19 Minutes From Vancouver and Start at Just $300K appeared first on 604 Now.

While cost is a significant factor, it’s essential to consider other factors like quality, workmanship, warranty, and insurance coverage.

This article will provide you with 9 important tips on how to compare roofing quotes and select the best roofing company.

Comparing Roofing Estimates in Vancouver

Communication

The first step in evaluating a roofing contractor is to assess their communication skills. Are they asking the right questions to understand your needs? Are they prompt to respond? Do they show care or interest in you in their communication? Good communication is critical in any project, and it’s no different when it comes to roofing. A contractor who takes the time to listen to your needs and communicates well with you is more likely to provide quality workmanship.

Roofing Assessment

It’s crucial to choose a contractor who has taken the time to assess your roof in person. An in-person assessment allows the contractor to understand what needs to be done and take the necessary time to ensure that they do a quality job. A reputable roofing contractor will provide you with an accurate assessment of the work that needs to be done and how much it will cost.

Roofing Estimates

A detailed quote is crucial when it comes to roofing projects. The scope of work should be clear, and the quote should be easy to understand. Vague and unclear quotes usually indicate a lack of care, which will translate to poor quality work being performed on your roof. A detailed quote will help you understand what you’re paying for and avoid any surprises during the project.

Low Quotes

Roofing estimates should typically fall within 5-to-10% of the average. Any estimate below this range should be approached with caution, rather than viewed as a bargain. Contractors may offer a lower estimate to secure the job, but may then surprise the client with unexpected costs once the project begins. Suspiciously low estimates often indicate an inexperienced contractor, substandard installation practices, or a company that may not last long in the industry.

Product/Workmanship Quality

The quality of workmanship and products used is essential when it comes to roofing. Check the contractor’s Google Reviews and ask for customer references to ensure that they are capable of installing a quality roof that will last. Quality workmanship and products will ensure that your roof lasts for a long time, saving you money in the long run.

Insurance

A reputable roofing contractor should have insurance coverage. In case of any damage to your home during the project, they should have the insurance coverage to pay for the damage. Always ask for proof of insurance before hiring a contractor.

WorkSafe

Ensure that the roofing contractor has WorkSafe clearance. WorkSafe clearance ensures that their workers are covered in case of injury on your site. A contractor who takes the safety of their workers seriously is more likely to take care when working on your roof.

Warranty

A reputable roofing contractor should provide a workmanship warranty and a product warranty. However, it’s essential to ensure that the company will be around in five to ten years to honour the warranty. Companies may offer warranties, but when push comes to shove, they may not show up to fix the issues.

Price

While price is an essential factor when choosing a roofing contractor, quotes that are priced really low can result in higher costs throughout the life of your roof. A low quote could indicate that the contractor is cutting corners or using low-quality products, which could result in expensive repairs down the line.

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can identify a reputable and reliable roofing contractor that can meet your specific needs. Moreover, you will have peace of mind knowing that your roofing project is in good hands and that you’ll get the best value for your investment. 

Remember, a roof repair or replacement is not a project to take lightly, and it requires careful consideration, planning, and execution. So take your time, do your research, and choose the right roofing contractor that you can trust.

This story is part of our Expert Advice series made in partnership with local professionals in the community. Vantage Roofing LTD is one of Metro Vancouver’s top roofing companies with over 25 years of experience.

View their .

For more tips and stories like this, check out our Real Estate section.

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The latest update, though, has the Pink Palace listed for sale as a ‘rare and exclusive opportunity’.

RELATED: 7 Brunch Spots In South Surrey / White Rock Worth The Drive

Pink Palace Surrey on Sale

The 4.80-acre site located at 1160 King George Blvd, Surrey, is currently being listed on Colliers for an undisclosed amount.

The location is described as a rare opportunity to acquire and redevelop the site formerly known as the Pacific Inn Resort and Conference Centre situated in South Surrey.

The listing states that future owners will have the chance to make much-needed modifications to the building before reintroducing it to visitors.

The property is located in a popular spot, with direct access to the US Border by two land crossings as well as being within a short drive of all major cities within the Lower Mainland.

Property Features

• At 4.80 Acres, the property provides scale for a future mixed-use development.
• Potential to renovate the current structure to a branded Hotel and Conference Centre in an underserved market.
• The property has direct exposure to King George Boulevard and Highway 99, major connecting routes in the city.
• Located in an amenity rich area with some of the city’s best restaurants, cafes, and shopping centres.

The property is also described to have high ceilings, 420 parking stalls, and an airplane hangar-sized atrium. There are two kitchens, 150 hotel rooms, a pool, hot tub, restaurant, and bar.

Sale areas

• Site Area: 209,042 SF or 4.800 Acres
• Building Area: 136,411 SF

Take a look at the property

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With that newfound freedom and flexibility, why not take full advantage and move to that makes you feel like you’ve never worked a day in your life?

We’ve found that place; the city of Penticton. Unlike the hustle and bustle of the city, there’s no absurd evening traffic, no overcrowded buses and there aren’t a million other people trying to get to the same place you’re going on a Friday night. Not to mention it has one of the most affordable lifestyles in all of BC. 

Nestled between the picture-perfect Okanagan and Skaha lakes, and one of the best year-round climates in Canada, Penticton residents are living the dream; spending their day to day in a place most of us are lucky to visit on holiday. 

Surrounded by more than 100 wineries within 20 minutes, and dubbed Canada’s craft beer capital by Lonely Planet, Penticton will give you that perfect glass of happiness that’s almost as incredible as your view.

Location, Location, Location

For many looking to move, it’s all about location. Penticton has just that. It’s an adventure paradise with countless things to see and do. 

Try rock climbing at Skaha Bluffs Provincial Park or hike the historic Kettle Valley Railway Trail. If you’re more into the extremes, avid mountain bikers have to check out Three Blind Mice or Campbell Mountain.

When it comes to water activities, it’s hard to beat paddling, sailing or kiteboarding on the picturesque Okanagan Lake or Skaha Lake.

If floating is more your style, look no further than the city’s River Channel. All you need is a floaty, some sunscreen and a few friends to spend the day drifting down the river.

Penticton isn’t just for the spring and summer. There are just as many activities to take part in during the colder months. 

In about a half-hour drive, you can find yourself at Apex Mountain Resort where you can spend the day downhill skiing, snowboarding or ice skating.

If you’re more into flat surfaces, you can opt for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing at Nickel Plate Nordic Centre which is only a 45-minute drive from Penticton. The city is also home to free outdoor public skating rinks and numerous snowshoeing trails nearby.

Holiday Lifestyle in Penticton

 

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You may visit Penticton for a weekend getaway or summer holiday, but have probably never imagined staying there all year round. 

Whoever said there’s too much of a good thing has never lived in Penticton. Feeling like you’ve beat the Monday blues for good, you’ll have that no-stress holiday feeling for as long as you’re there.

Penticton , two pristine lakes and regularly hosts neighbourhood block parties. 

It’s not only the breathtaking views or seemingly never-ending activities right outside your door that will have you wanting to make the move. The general vibe in Penticton is a lot more relaxed, allowing you to completely rid yourself of that constant city stress.

Again, if you can work anywhere, why not Penticton? It’s a slower way of life with so much to do right outside your door.

When you eventually do need to get some work done, there are plenty of places to do it. Penticton has a number of adorable cafes and coworking spaces where people can connect while getting their tasks done in a more cooperative yet relaxed atmosphere. 

Cowork Penticton offers a downtown coworking office and community hub with drop-in workspaces, bookable meeting rooms and monthly dedicated memberships. There’s also other local unique businesses that offer hot desking spaces, so you’re sure to find a workstation that suits your needs.

Penticton is home to workers from all walks of life. 

In a recent study, it was found that . 

In fact, the largest group of Penticton’s newest residents who arrived between May and July were between the ages of 31-44 (the second-largest group were kids). 

Of the 301 new residents who arrived since January 2022, 18 per cent are under age 18, 72 per cent are between the ages of 19-65, and 10 per cent are age 65 plus.

As for their reasons for making the move to Penticton, 31% said they moved for a job and 14% said it was because they moved because they’re a remote worker. 

Penticton Median Home Prices

As Vancouver becomes less and less affordable, many are opting to move away from the city. With one of BC’s most affordable lifestyles and great year-round weather, you might just be able to keep a few extra dollars in your pocket living in Penticton.

All-in-all, living in a tourist town has its perks, no matter your age or what your interests are. So if you work remotely, what are you waiting for? Make Penticton your home. 

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This is branded content brought to you by the City of Penticton. To learn more about, please .

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This has some people shocked because a manufactured home, a type of mobile home that largely premade and assembled on site, is pretty much the cheapest option for a detached home.

According to Zealty, the Coquitlam residence at 145 King Edward St. in Millcreek Village is 35 years old and is 1,600 square feet. It sold for $520,000, which was $70,000 over asking, after being listed for six days. 

RELATED: This Surrey Townhome Was Just Sold For $310K Over Asking

In perspective, one single (not prefabricated) detached home in Coquitlam that is less or around the same amount of square feet is often over $3,000,000.

Price wise, buying a detached home is more comparable to purchasing a condo.

Mobile home owners also need to pay a pad rental fee, which is comparable to a strata fee and can be around $700 – $1,100. 

A big reason someone might consider a mobile or manufactured home over a condo is privacy. You are not sharing walls with neighbours. 

This price for a manufactured home is indicative of a low supply of detached homes and an overvalued real estate market.

At this rate, if you are thinking about moving into a van down by the river, you should probably buy now. 

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