Controversial Trends in BC Real Estate
  
1. Oversupply & Developer Pushback
With listings hitting decade highs, some developers and real estate boards are quietly pushing back against aggressive upzoning policies (like transit-oriented development mandates), arguing they’re flooding the market with inventory while demand stays muted. Critics say this risks destabilizing prices and putting financial pressure on smaller builders.
2. Rental-Only Zoning Backlash
Several municipalities have moved forward with rental-only zoning and stricter restrictions on short-term rentals (e.g., Airbnb), sparking criticism from small investors and homeowners. Opponents argue it reduces flexibility and devalues properties, especially in tourist-heavy areas like Tofino or parts of Vancouver Island.
3. Foreign Buyer Ban Workarounds
Despite the federal foreign buyer ban, reports continue to surface of loopholes and proxy buying, with shell corporations or relatives acquiring properties. Critics say enforcement is weak, while others argue the ban is more symbolic than effective in addressing affordability.
4. Strata Insurance Premiums Still Climbing
Though no longer front-page news, strata insurance costs—especially in older buildings—remain a sore point. Some owners face soaring deductibles, leading to unit resale challenges and mounting legal disputes within strata councils.
5. Investor Fatigue & Mortgage Stress
Investors holding pre-sale condos from 2021–2022 are increasingly trying to assign contracts before completion due to higher mortgage rates and flattened rental yields. This has led to growing assignment listings in some towers, raising concerns of oversaturation and price dips in certain markets.
How Big Is The Biggest Scam In Canada
If you have a telephone, you have likely received a scam phone call. I like my cell phone provider (just a little bit) because they identify "Likely Scam" phone calls so I can answer or let it go to voicemail knowing there is a strong likelihood that it is a scam.
The biggest scam in Canada is the one that the caller indicates that you owe money to CRA and there is a warrant out for your arrest. This scan has managed to phone every person in Canada at least once.
I saw this very interesting video on YouTube that shows how it works and how it is so difficult to catch the bad guys. Check it out here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pGzroDBcX2U
To report a scam in Canada, contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC). For scam attempts related to government services, you can report them to the specific department or agency involved.
If you've lost money or personal information, also contact local law enforcement.
Types of Scams and How to Recognize Them:
Government Impersonation: Scammers may pretend to be from Service Canada, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), or Immigration, Refugees, Citizenship Canada. They may demand immediate payment, use threatening language, or ask for personal or financial information.
Financial Scams: Be wary of requests for payment via cryptocurrency or gift cards. If you receive a suspicious email, text, or phone call asking for personal information, it's likely a scam.
Social Media Scams: Be cautious of messages from "customer support" asking for your financial or personal information.
QR Code Scams: Avoid scanning QR codes that lead to unfamiliar websites.
How to Protect Yourself: Be Skeptical: Question unsolicited communications, especially those demanding immediate action. Don't Share Personal Information: Avoid providing personal or financial information via phone, email, or text message unless you initiated the contact. Verify Information: If you're unsure about the legitimacy of a communication, contact the organization directly through their official channels. Report Scams: Report any scam attempts to the CAFC or the relevant government department. Specific Scam Examples Service Canada Scams: Be cautious of unsolicited calls, emails, or text messages claiming to be from Service Canada asking for personal information. Grocery Rebate Scam: Be aware of disinformation about a new Grocery Rebate, as it was a one-time payment in July 2023. By staying informed about current scams and following these tips, you can protect yourself from becoming a victim
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