great rendition of Train’s “Hey, Soul Sister” by Kollaboration.

So, I had a terrific opportunity to share a road trip to Vancouver and Victoria BC and other than enjoying some well-deserved “R n R”, I was fascinated by the similarities between Vancouver, British Columbia Canada and Portland, Oregon USA! We seemed to be “sisters by a different mother”. There are some obvious comparisons, our weather patterns are comparable (enjoyed sunny and gorgeous weather all weekend) and the people open, friendly and welcoming (not unlike my local experiences). They enjoy a bit more water exposure but we don’t usually have their winds. Their city was very clean, extremely bike and pedestrian-friendly much like Portland. Vancouver is also a “foodie’s delight” and share’s Portland’s reputation for excellent and diverse dining experiences (I had some incredibly delectable and FRESH fish while there). I see where our downtown neighborhoods such as the Pearl and the South Waterfront received their inspiration, as the Vancouver skyline is speckled with high-rise condos and cranes and much construction is still underway. I couldn’t help but inquire of the locals as to the “state of their real estate market”.  It seems, both from personal inquiries and watching the news reports, that Vancouver BC has not seen a dramatic downturn nor has suffered the USA-type real estate bubble.  They are “so close and yet so far away”.  I’m fascinated by why the downturn in the real estate markets did not affect them?  Are they more “business friendly” and allow for new business influx and, thus, more jobs?  Did the Canadian financial markets not have the ominous “behind the scenes” misrepresentation in the system of buying and selling packages of Mortgage-Backed-Securities that so deeply affected our secondary mortgage markets?                                                                                        

Vancouver BC Skyline

Vancouver Art Gallery

So, my only disappointment was the well-touted Capilano Suspension Bridge on the way to the Grouse Mt ski resort in North Vancouver. I usually don’t participate in the “touristy traps” unless they have incredible historical significance, but I just couldn’t ignore all the hype about this bridge. In my world, it was a glorified ride at “Disneyland” and would’ve been exciting with young children (the swaying bridge, the tree houses, etc). But, I could’ve spent the $30 bucks more wisely.

About the Author | Janeese Jackson

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My job is service...service to you and your real estate transactions! How can you benefit from my 20 years of experience and expertise? What can I offer to make the process more productive? * Current information on available housing...comparative and competitive market pricing and analysis * Daily involvement in the local real estate marketplace * Thorough, comprehensive knowledge reflecting years of helping others complete their real estate business * Extensive network of professional resources to make the process as smooth as possible My commitment is to you! Being available to you...returning your calls...answering your questions...addressing your concerns...respecting your money...matching your timeline...meeting your expectations...helping accomplish your real estate goals!!