When we talk about home value in the Tri-Cities, we often focus on kitchen renos or curb appeal. But as a local REALTOR®, I can tell you that the most important "upgrades" are the ones that keep your home standing and your family safe.

Neglecting basic safety maintenance doesn't just put you at risk; it can be a major red flag for buyers during a home inspection. This year, make sure these three items are at the top of your Annual Safety Refresh.

1. Test Your "First Responders" (Smoke & CO Detectors)

Your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are your home’s first line of defense.

• The Task: Test every unit monthly by pressing the test button. Replace batteries annually—even if they aren't chirping yet.

• The "Rule of 10": Most detectors have a lifespan of 10 years. If yours are older, it’s time for a full replacement.

• Pro Tip: If you're preparing your home for sale, ensure you have detectors on every level and near all sleeping areas to meet safety standards.

2. The Silent Fire Hazard: Dryer Vents

Lint buildup in dryer vents is a leading cause of household fires in Canada. Beyond safety, a clogged vent forces your dryer to work harder, shortening its lifespan and hiking up your BC Hydro bill.

• The Task: Once a year, disconnect the duct from the back of the dryer and use a vacuum or a specialized brush kit to remove lint from the entire length of the vent.

• Local Help: For a deep clean, consider local Coquitlam experts like Duct Ninjas to ensure the job is done professionally.

3. Electrical & Fire Extinguisher Check

Small electrical issues can turn into big problems if left unchecked.

• Test GFCIs: Press the "test" and "reset" buttons on your bathroom and kitchen outlets to ensure the ground-fault circuit interrupter is working.

• Fire Extinguishers: Check the pressure gauge on your fire extinguishers. If the needle isn't in the green, or if the unit is expired, replace it immediately.

Why This Matters for Your Real Estate Goals

Maintenance is a form of equity. When it comes time for a professional home evaluation, a well-documented history of safety checks proves to buyers that you’ve been a meticulous steward of the property.

I’ve spent the better part of my career helping families navigate the chaos of moving day. I’ve seen it all: the lost keys, the overstuffed trucks, and the frantic searches for a favorite teddy bear buried at the bottom of a wardrobe box. As a professional, I thought I had the "moving thing" figured out.

Then, last summer happened.

In the middle of August, my wife and I moved into our new home with our 15-month-old daughter. Suddenly, all my professional "hacks" were put to the ultimate test. It turns out that knowing how to wrap a porcelain vase is very different from keeping a walking, climbing, teething toddler safe while your entire life is packed into cardboard.

If you’re preparing for a move with a little one, I’m here to tell you: it’s going to be okay. Here is the honest truth about moving with a toddler—and the strategies that actually worked for us.

The "15-Month" Reality Check

At 15 months, our daughter was in that "helper" phase—which is a polite way of saying she wanted to unpack every box I just taped shut. I realized quickly that moving with a toddler isn't just a logistics problem; it's a transition management problem.

If you are just starting your journey, I recommend checking out my Home Search tools to ensure your new neighborhood has the parks and amenities a growing toddler needs.

1. The "Decoy Box" Trick

One of the best things I did during our move was creating a "Toddler Box." While I was packing the kitchen, I gave her a box filled with Tupperware, wooden spoons, and safe plastic lids. It kept her occupied for an hour, feeling like she was "working" right alongside her Dad.

2. The First-Night Sanctuary

Professional movers always say to prioritize the kitchen, but as a dad, I say: Prioritize the Nursery.

My Personal Rule: The crib, the white noise machine, and her favorite toys were the first things off the truck. We wanted her to wake up in a new room, but feel like she was in the same home.

3. Safety First (Literally)

On moving day, the front door is constantly open. It’s a toddler’s dream and a parent’s nightmare. A portable playpen as a "safe zone" in a quiet corner of the house. If you're worried about the logistics of the day, you can Contact Me directly for my personal list of trusted, family-friendly moving vendors.

A Note from the Trenches

Moving is a massive milestone, but it’s also a lot of "big feelings" for a little person. Looking back on our move last summer, I realize that the most important thing I unpacked wasn't the fine china—it was my patience.

If you are currently looking to Sell Your Home and are worried about how to manage showings with a toddler, don't sweat it. I’ve been there, and I have specific strategies to make your home look "listing ready" even with a 15-month-old roommate.

If the nap schedule falls apart or they eat goldfish crackers for dinner three nights in a row, forgive yourself. You aren't just moving boxes, you're moving a childhood.

Is your family gearing up for a big move soon? I’d love to help you plan!

If you own a home in Burnaby, Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, or Port Moody, you are living in some of the most established and beautiful communities in the Lower Mainland. Many of these homes, particularly those built between the 1920s and 1970s, were originally heated by oil stored in underground storage tanks (USTs).

While most houses switched to natural gas decades ago, some of those old steel tanks were left behind. Here is what you need to know about managing them responsibly in 2026.

1. Know the Local Rules

Regulations for removing an abandoned oil tank vary depending on where you live.

Burnaby

: You must obtain a permit from the city before removing a tank. As of 2026, the permit fee is approximately $54.00 per tank for residential properties. A final report including photos and disposal receipts must be submitted to the City to close the permit.

Coquitlam

: While the city provides guidelines for removal, they generally do not require a separate permit for residential UST removal. However, you must notify Coquitlam Fire/Rescue in writing and provide a site plan before work begins.

Port Moody & Port Coquitlam: These cities typically do not require a municipal permit for removal, but homeowners must still comply with the BC Fire Code, which mandates that any tank out of service for more than two years be removed.

2. Telltale Signs of a Hidden Tank

If you aren't sure if your property has one, look for these visual clues around your yard and foundation:

• Filler Pipes: Small metal caps (about 3 inches wide) sticking out of the ground.

• Vent Pipes: Narrow pipes (about 2 inches wide) often attached to the side of the house with a "mushroom" cap.

• Feeder Lines: Small copper tubes in the basement or utility room that look pinched off or "crimped".

• Unusual Depressions: Sinking patches in the lawn could indicate a deteriorating tank beneath the surface.

3. Why Take Action?

Dealing with a tank is much more affordable than dealing with a leak.

• Real Estate & Insurance: Most insurance companies in 2026 will not renew a policy if an underground tank is present. Similarly, buyers and banks often require a "clean" scan before a sale can proceed.

• Environmental Protection: Removing a dry tank is a routine job. If a tank begins to leak, it can contaminate soil and even migrate to a neighbor's property, which significantly increases remediation costs.

• Peace of Mind: For about $3,000 to $5,000, most standard residential tanks can be professionally removed and the site certified clean, adding permanent value to your home.

4. Next Steps for Homeowners

If you suspect you have a tank, the best first step is a non-invasive scan. Professional companies use Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) to find tanks without any digging.

• Consult the Experts: Find a licensed contractor familiar with your specific city’s requirements.

• Check City Websites: For more details, use the City of Burnaby's Permit Portal or Coquitlam’s Fire Prevention Services.

The real estate markets in the Fraser Valley and Vancouver are diverging, presenting distinct opportunities for investors in 2026. While Vancouver offers long-term stability and a potential buyer's market with price corrections, the Fraser Valley is poised for a stronger sales rebound and modest price growth, driven by relative affordability and infrastructure projects like the Surrey-Langley SkyTrain expansion.

For those aiming to purchase their first investment property, 2026 is shaping up to be an opportune year, provided one enters the market with careful financial preparation and a clear strategy. The key lies in leveraging current buyer-friendly conditions and having a long-term investment horizon, as detailed in our guide on Why Timing and Preparation Matter in Real Estate.

Regional Outlook: Vancouver vs. Fraser Valley

Preparation for Your First Investment Property Purchase

Purchasing a non-owner-occupied investment property in Canada requires specific preparation that differs from buying a primary residence.

• Secure Financing Early: Get a mortgage pre-approval 6-12 months in advance. Investment properties require a higher minimum down payment of 20% or more, and mortgage rates may be higher than those for a principal residence. Explore our Financing Tips for Investors.

• Build Capital and Reserves: Save diligently for the larger down payment and budget for closing costs, which typically run 2–5% of the purchase price. Additionally, maintain a separate emergency fund covering 3–6 months of expenses and potential maintenance costs (budget around 1% of the property's value annually).

• Understand Legal & Tax Implications: Be aware of landlord-tenant laws in BC. Consult with a professional to understand eligible deductions like mortgage interest (on the rental portion only), property taxes, and maintenance costs. Our blog post on Tax Implications for Rental Properties offers a starting point.

• Do Your Due Diligence: The current buyer's market conditions mean you have more time to inspect properties carefully. Review strata documents, get a professional home inspection, and ensure the property's value is supported by an appraisal.

Conclusion: Strategy Meets Execution

Ultimately, the decision to invest in 2026 is less about timing the market bottom and more about your personal financial readiness and long-term investment strategy. By understanding the two-speed market and diligently preparing your finances, you can confidently enter the dynamic Fraser Valley and Vancouver real estate landscape. Strategy meets execution to build lasting wealth.

For expert guidance on navigating the 2026 market and securing financing, you can contact a local professional through the BCREA Find a Realtor tool, or reach out to us directly for a personalized consultation at hiroshikubota.com.

Achieving a premium sale price isn't just about the market conditions; it’s about the cumulative impact of small, deliberate actions. When you combine a Tuesday launch with high-end presentation, you create an irresistible narrative for buyers.

Why Tuesday is a Strategic Listing Day

• Early Buyer Mindset: Serious buyers often start their home search at the beginning of the week to ensure they have enough time to coordinate with their agents for weekend viewings.

• Optimal Lead Time: Listing on Tuesday provides a 3-4 day "runway" for your property to gain traction, collect saves on digital platforms, and be at the forefront of schedules before buyers' weekend calendars fill up.

• Reduced Initial Competition: While many agents default to Thursday or Friday, listing on Tuesday allows your property to stand out before the market becomes inundated with later-week "new alerts".

• Capturing Momentum: Homes listed mid-week generally receive the most attention during their first seven days, making a Tuesday launch ideal for building intensity that peaks during Saturday and Sunday open houses. 

2026 Market Context

• Normalization Trend: The 2026 market is moving toward a "normalized" state with more balanced inventory, making strategic timing essential to avoid a property sitting on the market too long.

• Prime Selling Season: For maximum impact, consider a Tuesday launch during the peak spring months (March to May) or during the high-activity week of February 16, 2026, which is forecasted to be a standout period for sellers looking to beat the spring rush.

• Digital Visibility: In 2026, roughly two-thirds of homes that sell are under contract within 14 days; a Tuesday listing ensures your property is "fresh" and at the top of saved-search notifications when buyer activity spikes midweek. 

Comparison with Other Days

For more personalized advice, visit the Hiroshi Kubota Selling Tips page.

If you own property in British Columbia, you've likely just received your annual BC Assessment notice in the mail. This figure often sparks conversation, confusion, and sometimes frustration among homeowners. Is it what your house is really worth?

The short answer is no. The BC Assessment value and your home's actual market value are often significantly different.

Understanding why these numbers diverge is crucial for both budget planning and real estate decisions. The key distinction lies in their purpose, timing, and methodology.

The Sole Purpose of the BC Assessment

The BC Assessment value is not designed to be a real-time market appraisal of your home. Its sole purpose is to create an equitable, standardized base for calculating your municipal and provincial property taxes.

By ensuring all properties in an area are assessed using the same standardized rules, the system aims for fairness in how the property tax burden is distributed.

5 Key Reasons for the Value Discrepancy

Here is why your assessment notice may differ significantly from the price a buyer might actually pay:

1. The Critical 6-Month Time Lag

The most important factor is timing. The value you receive on your notice (typically in January) is assessed as of July 1 of the previous year.

In a fast-moving real estate market, a six-month lag is substantial. If your local market has been hot since July 1st, your assessment will likely be lower than the current market value. Conversely, if the market has cooled rapidly, your assessment might temporarily feel higher than what buyers are currently offering.

2. Mass Appraisal vs. In-Person Inspection

BC Assessment uses a "mass appraisal" system. They use statistical models and general market data from your neighbourhood (like recent sales of similar properties) to value thousands of homes efficiently.

An actual market value, determined by a professional appraiser during a sale or a potential buyer, involves a specific, in-person evaluation. They walk through every room, check the condition of the roof, examine the furnace age, and note specific flaws or high-end upgrades.

3. Condition and Interior Renovations Often Go Unnoticed

This is a major point of difference. BC Assessment generally does not know about internal factors unless you've pulled a permit.

• Did you renovate your kitchen last year without a permit? That specific high-value improvement might not be fully reflected in your assessment.

• Does your home have deferred maintenance issues (e.g., a leaky basement or ancient carpets)? A buyer would discount their offer significantly for these problems, but the BC Assessment may not account for them due to the lack of interior inspection.

4. It Doesn't Capture "Bidding Wars" or Urgency

The actual sale price of a home can be influenced by emotional factors, bidding wars, or a buyer's urgent need to move. These real-world market dynamics are not, and cannot be, factored into the standardized assessment process.

5. Assessed Value is a "Midpoint"

Assessors aim for a market value estimate, and there is a recognized "acceptable range" for assessments. It’s designed for tax equity, not for setting your listing price.

Ultimately, the BC Assessment is an important civic tool for tax fairness. It's a general snapshot of the market from six months ago.

If you are thinking of selling your home, use the BC Assessment notice as an interesting data point, but rely on a current comparative market analysis from a Realtor like myself to determine what your home is truly worth in today’s market.

The real estate landscape in Coquitlam has reached a unique tipping point. While the condo and townhouse segments remain relatively balanced, the detached home market is firmly in buyer territory. If you have been waiting to trade your strata property for more space and land, the current conditions offer a powerful financial advantage. 

1. The Power of the Mortgage Helper

One of the strongest arguments for moving into a detached home right now is the rental income potential. In Coquitlam, a 2-bedroom basement suite currently rents for approximately $2,300 to $2,700 per month. 

• Mortgage Coverage: At a $2,300 rental rate, this income can effectively cover roughly $450,000 in mortgage principal (depending on current interest rates).

• Strata Savings: By moving out of a condo or townhouse, you immediately eliminate monthly strata fees, which can range from $300 to $600+ depending on the building. These savings can be redirected toward your increased property taxes and insurance (for a guide to all associated costs, see this article on the true cost of homeownership). 

2. Market Conditions: Buyers Hold the Leverage

As of December 2025, detached home inventory has increased significantly.

• Price Adjustments: Benchmark prices for detached homes in several Coquitlam neighborhoods have seen annual decreases of 3% to 5%. For a detailed breakdown of local market stats, check the latest Greater Vancouver Market Report Infographics.

• Negotiating Power: With properties sitting on the market for an average of 30 to 33 days, buyers have more room to negotiate price, subjects, and closing dates than they have in years. 

3. Calculating the Total Cost of Ownership

While the mortgage-helper suite and strata savings are huge wins, it is important to factor in the change in carrying costs:

• Property Taxes: Detached homes typically face higher annual property taxes than condos. Coquitlam's 2025 tax rates saw an average municipal increase of roughly 6.83%.

• Insurance: Unlike a strata where your fees cover the building's exterior, as a detached homeowner, you are responsible for the entire property's insurance, which has seen upward pressure due to rising construction costs.

The Bottom Line

The "buy low" opportunity for detached houses is here. By leveraging the high rental demand in Coquitlam and the current lull in house prices, you can secure a long-term asset that pays for a significant portion of its own costs.

If you are interested in exploring specific listings that fit this profile, you can search all active listings on my website here. 

When you’re house hunting in Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, or Port Moody, it’s easy to focus purely on square footage, bedroom counts, and benchmark prices. These numbers are vital, of course, but a house is just a structure. What makes it a home is the community that surrounds it.

The Tri-Cities area is more than just a convenient commute into Vancouver; it's a vibrant collection of unique neighborhoods each offering a distinct West Coast lifestyle.

Let’s take a break from the market analysis and explore some of the local gems that make living here so exceptional. Showcasing these amenities not only highlights the quality of life here but also underscores the long-term value of investing in a location you love.

🌲 Coquitlam: Nature Meets Urban Convenience

Coquitlam boasts an incredible balance of suburban comfort and natural wilderness, offering ample opportunity to disconnect from the hustle without leaving the city.

Featured Gem: Mundy Park

Mundy Park is Coquitlam's largest urban park and a true local treasure. Forget the gym membership; this park offers a vast network of shaded trails perfect for trail running, dog walks, or a peaceful afternoon stroll.

• Why we love it: It features two lakes (Mundy Lake and Lost Lake), a fantastic playground and water park for the kids, and even a designated off-leash dog area. It’s an everyday escape right in your backyard.

Community Highlight: Coquitlam Crunch

This beloved uphill trail is Coquitlam’s version of Vancouver's Grouse Grind. It's a challenging workout that offers fantastic views of the surrounding area. It embodies the active, outdoor-focused lifestyle many Tri-Cities residents cherish.

🍺 Port Moody: The Seaside Vibe & "Brewery Row"

Port Moody offers a charming, artistic, and seaside village atmosphere. It perfectly blends industrial roots with a lively cultural scene, all accessible via the Evergreen Extension.

Featured Gem: Brewery Row (Murray Street)

This is arguably the most famous local attraction for adults! Within a few blocks along Murray Street, you can hop between award-winning craft breweries like Yellow Dog Brewing, Moody Ales, and Parkside Brewery.

• Why we love it: It’s a perfect gathering spot on a sunny weekend afternoon. Many breweries are family- and dog-friendly, feature local food trucks, and foster a strong sense of local community that residents deeply value.

Community Highlight: Rocky Point Park

With its scenic pier views, walking trails, famous ice cream shop, and outdoor concert venue, Rocky Point Park is the heart of Port Moody’s summer scene. It offers easy access to the water for kayaking or paddleboarding, epitomizing the laid-back West Coast lifestyle.

🛶 Port Coquitlam: The Riverside Charm

Often the "value proposition" of the Tri-Cities, Port Coquitlam offers beautiful, family-oriented neighborhoods and incredible river access, often at a more accessible price point than its neighbours.

Featured Gem: The Traboulay PoCo Trail

This flat, 25.3-kilometre loop trail encircles the entire city of Port Coquitlam, following the Coquitlam and Fraser Rivers. It's a meticulously maintained urban sanctuary perfect for serious cyclists, casual walkers, and nature lovers.

• Why we love it: It feels secure and accessible year-round, connecting multiple parks and neighbourhoods. It’s a fantastic amenity that promotes health and connectivity across the city.

Community Highlight: Leigh Square Community Arts Village

This vibrant hub hosts year-round events, including farmers' markets, summer concerts, and community festivals. It fosters a small-town community feel right in the middle of a growing urban center.

Invest in More Than Just a House

Real estate is about finding the perfect base for your life. When you’re considering moving to or within the Tri-Cities, these local gems translate directly into quality of life, community engagement, and long-term neighbourhood desirability.

As a local realtor who lives, works, and plays here, I'm ready to help you find a home that fits your lifestyle goals—not just your budget.

Ready to find your perfect Tri-Cities neighborhood? Reach out today and let’s schedule a coffee (perhaps near Brewery Row!) to discuss your needs.

If you’re preparing to list your home in Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, or Port Moody right now, you might notice a shift in the local landscape. The "go-go" seller's market we saw just a year or two ago is cooling, and the inventory of available homes is on the rise.

For sellers, this new reality presents a challenge: how do you ensure your home stands out and sells efficiently, rather than "sitting pretty" on the MLS for months?

The answer boils down to two critical factors: competitive pricing and exceptional presentation (staging).

The Problem with 'Sitting Pretty'

In a balanced or buyer-leaning market like the Tri-Cities is currently experiencing, time on market matters more than ever. When a listing goes stale—meaning it sits unsold for 30, 60, or even 90+ days—buyers start to ask questions: What’s wrong with the house? Is the price too high?

Stale listings often lead to lowball offers and a loss of negotiating power. The initial wave of excitement when a new property hits the market is your best window of opportunity; if you miss it by being overpriced, you’re often playing catch-up for weeks.

Factor 1: The Art of Competitive Pricing

Pricing your home effectively isn't about guessing; it’s about analyzing data and understanding current demand.

📈 Price to the Current Market, Not Last Year's Peak

We’ve likely moved past the peak pricing of early 2022. Your home's value today is determined by what comparable properties are selling for now, not what your neighbour achieved a year ago. We need to price for where the market is going, not where it's been.

🎯 The Goal: Attract the Right Buyers Immediately

In a high-inventory market, buyers have choices. Pricing your home competitively—often right at or slightly below the current fair market value—creates urgency. It ensures your property appears within the search parameters of serious buyers and their agents, driving viewings and, ideally, competing offers.

📊 A Data-Driven Approach

As your realtor, my strategy involves a detailed comparative market analysis (CMA). We look closely at active listings and recent sales in your specific Tri-Cities neighbourhood to find that sweet spot that maximizes your return while minimizing your time on the market.

Factor 2: The Power of Professional Presentation (Staging)

If pricing gets buyers to look online, staging gets them through the door—and makes them stay.

In a market crowded with listings, homes that present beautifully in photos and feel welcoming in person have a massive advantage. Staging is no longer an optional luxury; it’s a required marketing expense.

• It's About Depersonalization: Staging helps buyers visualize themselves living in the space, rather than just viewing your current home.

• It Highlights Potential: Stagers know how to arrange furniture and lighting to emphasize flow, space, and architectural features, minimizing flaws.

• It Boosts Perceived Value: A well-maintained, staged home suggests a well-cared-for home overall, giving buyers confidence in their investment.

The Bottom Line

Selling successfully in today's Tri-Cities market requires a proactive strategy.

Don't let your valuable asset 'sit pretty' on the market, losing momentum and value with every passing week. By combining a data-driven, competitive pricing strategy with professional staging, we can position your home as the premier choice for buyers right now.

Ready to discuss your Tri-Cities home sale strategy? Contact me today for a personalized consultation and market analysis.