Naru Menon’s Blog

  • B.C. Launches Rent Recovery Insurance in 2025

    B.C. Launches Rent Recovery Insurance in 2025

    B.C. will launch a government-supported insurance program to help landlords recover unpaid rent in 2025. The program aims to reduce risks for landlords, encouraging more rental units to enter the market.

  • Redeveloping Federal Lands in BC

    Redeveloping Federal Lands in BC

    Canada's “Public Lands for Homes Plan” targets federal properties for affordable housing redevelopment. Initial redevelopment sites include former buildings in Vancouver and Port Moody, BC.

  • BC 2025 Rent Hike Tied to 3% Inflation Rate

    BC 2025 Rent Hike Tied to 3% Inflation Rate

    Annual rent increase for 2025 is tied to inflation, set at 3%, lower than 2024’s 3.5%. This policy saves renters hundreds compared to previous regulations of inflation plus an additional 2%.

  • BC’s Rental Protection Fund Announces Acquisition of 147 more affordable rental units across the Lower Mainland

    The Rental Protection Fund has announced three new acquisitions in the Lower Mainland to enhance affordable housing. In Vancouver, a 24-unit building in Marpole will be protected. Burnaby will secure 79 homes through non-profit ownership, while Maple Ridge will see 44 townhomes remain affordable for families. The Fund aims to address the housing crisis by…

  • Short-term rental restrictions saved B.C. tenants more than $600M

    A report from McGill University indicates that crackdowns on short-term rentals in British Columbia have led to a 5.7% reduction in rents, saving tenants over $600 million last year. The principal residence rule in cities like Vancouver has resulted in renters paying an average of $147 less monthly. The provincewide regulation, effective May 2023, is…

  • Understanding the Real Estate Market

    Real estate market tips for buyers and sellers include understanding economic conditions, interest rates, and demographic trends. For buyers: set a budget, research neighborhoods, engage a real estate agent, and conduct thorough inspections. For sellers: set the right price, enhance curb appeal, stage the home, and market effectively. Probate lawyers are essential for handling property…

  • BC Home Prices up $597K in 18 Years

    BC Home Prices up $597K in 18 Years

    BC home prices increased by 164% between 2006 and 2024, from $364,567 to $962,400. The average BC home price is now $597,833 higher than it was 18 years ago.

  • BC Code Exemption Impact

    BC Code Exemption Impact

    Exemptions for Ongoing Projects: Current constructions exempt from 2024 B.C. Building Code’s adaptability and seismic provisions. Industry Pushback Eases: Feedback cites significant redesign costs and project delays.

  • BC Offers Free Designs for Faster Housing

    BC Offers Free Designs for Faster Housing

    Free standardized designs now enable faster, lower-cost construction of small-scale, multi-unit housing in communities. Designs blend with neighborhoods, offering various roof shapes, finishes, and adaptable options for aging in place.

  • What’s driving inflation in BC is housing prices

    Premier David Eby stated that British Columbia has the fastest-growing economy among large provinces in Canada but acknowledged that more needs to be done to improve affordability for residents. He emphasized efforts to reduce permit times and increase investment while addressing issues like child care and insurance costs. Eby criticized federal immigration policies for contributing…