When you think about putting up a fence around your home and yard, you may think your options are between a chain link or wood fence. However, you will soon realize that there are many options now available to consumers. To begin, it is important to ask yourself the reason for installing a fence. Is it to keep your dog in the yard? In that case you may opt for a simple chain link fence. Do you want more privacy from neighbours or reduced road noise? Perhaps a wood or aluminum fence is the better choice for you. Or do you want a fence that increases your homes curb appeal? Maybe a vinyl or wrought iron fence is the direction you should go. Furthermore, if you live on Vancouver Island, you may want to consider how the salt in the air will affect your fence. With all that said it is also important to identify how much you are willing to spend on a fence because each option carries a different price tag. Below will look at advantages and drawbacks of each type of fence and hopefully help you gain a better understanding of what is the best for you and your home.

Wood Fence |

Starting us off is the classic wood fence which offers homeowners privacy from neighbours and any road action. Furthermore, it is easily maneuverable over terrain such as hills or ravines. A significant selling feature of wood fences is the ability to choose between different designs, heights and even types of woods. Furthermore. You can stain wood which means you can stain it any color that best matches your house. However, wood fences also come with drawbacks that a homeowner needs to consider. Firstly, wood weathers and can randomly crack and split no matter how well you maintain it. Additionally, wood expands and contracts with the different weather which can sometimes cause gaps. These fences also need to be properly maintained annually to minimize the above. Furthermore, while wood fences are great, in that you can customize them, the staining will need to be reapplied every so often, especially if you live on Vancouver Island which is close proximity to the ocean. Check out Black Dog Fencing if you are in Port Alberni or surrounding areas.

Chain Link Fence |

While chain-link fences are not the choice for someone who wants a visually appealing fence. These fences do provide homeowners with some advantages. First off, chain-link fences are affordable. Therefore, if you have a large property, chain link fences can be a cost-effective way for you to be able to fence the whole yard. Which leads into the next benefit, these fences are great for someone who just needs to keep their animals contained. Beyond being affordable for homeowners, chain link fences are exceptionally tough and requires little maintenance and upkeep. However, while a fence is better than no fence, when it comes to selling your home, a chain link fence is not going to increase your property value much. If you want to attract home buyers that will pay more, you should consider installing a wood or vinyl fence to increase property value. Another drawback of chin-link fences are the lack of privacy and security. While they may keep smaller animals in, these fences will not keep people out. 

Aluminum Fences |

Aluminum fences offer homeowners a variety of advantages. To begin they are visually appealing option and often come in an array of colors and designs so you can find the perfect one to fit your home. Aluminum fences are also extremely low maintenance as they do not require repainting/staining and they do not rust, unlike chain link fences. Another benefit of these fences are the most affordable costs and are much cheaper alternatives to materials such as wrought iron or steel. Having said that, there are two disadvantages to aluminum fences which are lack of privacy and security. If those are two factors you are not concerned about then aluminum fences may be the perfect option for you. 

Vinyl Fences |

Vinyl fences offer homeowners an abundance of advantages and are the perfect combination of curb appeal, durability, maintenance free and long lasting. You can get vinyl in different colors and does not require repainting each year. Furthermore, vinyl fences come in a variety of styles and designs and even can be made to look like wood. Secondly these fences are extremely durable, they will not weather, split, crack or rot. Vinyl is however a pricy alternative to other fence materials and is something homeowners need to take into consideration. If you are in Port Alberni, Parksville, Qualicum or Nanaimo be sure to check out Finyl Fencing, with 28 years of experience you can rely on this company to get the job done. 

Wrought Iron Fences |

Just like the others above, these fences offer homeowners both advantages and drawbacks. To begin, wrought iron fences are exceptionally strong and durable. Which means they will provide your home with a sense of security. Due to classic pointed tip design, it makes wrought iron fences more difficult to climb.  These fences also give the allusion of 'high end'. This would be beneficial to the seller if they were to put their home on the market because the fence would contribute to an increased property value. Having said that, some drawbacks of wrought iron fencing is the cost, you can be sure to spend a considerable amount of money for this fencing. Secondly, dealing with rust can be a concern if your fence is not properly treated and coated. Which is especially true if you live along one of Vancouver Islands coasts. Additionally, if you have a yard that varies in elevation, this may not be the fence for you. Wrought iron is difficult to manipulate up and down hills and by doing so it can lose its strength. However, if you are interested in installing this type of fence, check out K&S Railings in Nanaimo who offer custom hand-crafted wrought-iron products.  

Regardless of the recent snow fall in Port Alberni and surrounding areas, Spring is just around the corner, which means it is time to grab your clubs out of the closet, dust them off and head to one of Vancouver Islands many golf courses. Since it can be difficult to decide which one to play at first, we are going to briefly look at different Vancouver Islands courses. Starting from the southern end and working our way up north.

Olympic View Golf Club.

This golf course is in Victoria and offers players an abundance of sights including a gorgeous view of the Olympic Mountains at the 5^th hole and even a signature waterfall which can be found at the 17th hole. After an exciting game of gold enjoy the Clubs Bistro and Bar or take a walk through their Japanese garden. This course is open to public, but you must call or make a reservation 10 days in advanced online. But do not worry for Club members they have members only tee time so you can still get the feeling of exclusive service.

Bear Mountain Resort Mountain Course & Bear Mountain Resort Valley Course

This golf course is the only course in Canada that is a 36-hole course of ‘Nicklaus Design’. Along this course player are greeted with beautiful views of the city, mountains, and ocean. Some reviews have even suggested there are surprise snacks offered midway through the course. What a bonus! This course also offers on site accommodation so you can play until your heart is content. 

Arbutus Ridge Golf Club

Arbutus Ridge Golf Club is in Cobble Hill. This region is well known for their wineries. This course is said to have some of the most challenging end holes in all of Vancouver Island. But there is no need to worry because after a difficult game and maybe the pain of losing to your father-in-law, you can unwind and relax at the courses Satellite Bar & Grille. In todays continuously growing importance of preserving environments, Arbutus has a Committee whose sole purpose is to preserve and protect the course and environment around it.

Cowichan Golf and Country Club

This course is any golfer’s dream. It was designed by the architect A.V. Macan back in 1947. Macan is known for his designs of golf courses around western North America. During your game you will be greeted with spectacular views of the mountains and Cowichan Bay. For golfers who enjoy a challenge this is the course for you. Cowichan Golf and Country Club’s course provides users with a difficult 11^th hole. This course features ravines, large trees, elevation and some sections with water on both sides.

Morningstar Golf Club

Morningstar Golf Club is located in Parksville is said to be “one of the most beautiful and challenging courses”. It is located only 25 minutes north of Nanaimo which makes convenient due to its central location. This is the perfect course for anyone new to the game. Morningstar provides custom programs to fit your skill level. They also have a practice range, and on those rainy days, covered stalls so you can keep playing and stay dry. This course's design was overlooked by the architect Les Furber who is an award winning golf course designer.

Pheasant Glen Golf Resort

This course offer player magnificent views of Mount Arrowsmith and is located in Qualicum Beach. The course is remembered for its 17th hole that is surrounded by water and is layered green. After your game you can enjoy artisans, restaurants and of course take a walk along the beautiful Qualicum Beach.

Crown Isle Resort & Golf Community

This golf resort features a impressive 48,000 sq.ft clubhouse that has its own classic car museum, a pub and steak house as well as a cigar room. As for the course itself, it said to be ‘deceptively forgiving’ and even seasoned players will be challenged. Furthermore, the 18th hole is what draws players into coming back. This course is beautifully manicured and is nestled near the Beaufort Mountains.

The Storey Creek Golf & Recreation Society

This course is south of Campbell River and is unique in that they have really worked to incorporate the golf course in the already existing environment. Every hole is surrounded by trees and even some players have had to wait for wildlife to cross the course. There is also a creek that passes through the course where salmon are often spotted and even eagles splash around. Another thing that makes this course unique is the mote around the 2nd hole.

Campbell River Golf & Country Club

This course allows anyone to experience it without having to become a member of the Club. They also have a driving range that encompasses state of the art radar technology. Toptracer technology is also available and allows you to play courses anywhere in the world, its purpose is to help you practice and examine your swing. The course also has lounge chairs for anyone who wants to watch rather than play.

Location, Location, Location

This must be the most important factor when looking for a home. If you find a home that checks everything off your list but is located in Ladysmith when your ideal location was Port Alberni, chances are you will not purchase it. If a home has some imperfections most people can look past it if you love neighborhood. There are so many factors that contribute to a desirable neighborhood such as proximity to work, shopping or transit, placement of the home on the lot, traffic, and general neighborhood noise are just a few factors to consider. To get a better understanding of the neighborhood consider driving around in the evening or on a weekend when people are home from work. Are the streets crowded, is there room to park on the road or would you have to park down the block? Are people walking their dogs or biking? Are there children playing? These attributes will not only give you a better understanding of the business of the neighborhood, but it will also indicate how safe others perceive the neighborhood.

Lot Characteristics

Aside from the condition inside the home. You also want to consider the external layout of the property, is it on a slope with a steep driveway? Do you have to consider coming outside to your car at the bottom of the driveway during those snowy west coast winters? Does it have a view of one of Vancouver Islands coasts, lakes or mountain ranges? Or if you are looking for a home in cities such as Port Alberni, you may find your new home has a view of both Sproat Lake and the Beaufort Mountain Range. Other questions to consider, are your windows directly looking into your neighbors’ home? Is there a yard that will fit your garden and entertainment needs?  What is the condition of the neighboring properties? Does the home require a lot of upkeep? Is that something you are interested in or are you looking for a low maintenance yard? There are so many factors to consider and you likely will not be able to check everyone off, but it is important to identify a few characteristics that are essential to you, so you are able to remain focused and find the right home for you.

Size and Layout

Open concept floorplans are highly desirable in the real estate market therefore if you have small kids and want to be able to cook dinner while keeping an eye on them playing in the living room, an open concept is going to be a high priority on your list. Therefore, unless you are prepared to renovate to knock out walls, you should look for a home that is the closest fit to your needs. Furthermore, you should identify how many bedrooms and bathrooms you and your family need. You also need to ask if the kitchen is suitable for your cooking needs, is there enough room for multiple people to work without bumping elbows? Lastly, you may be attracted to a large home with lots of space, but to large and you will spend your weekends cleaning to keep up rather than out enjoying one of the many activities available on Vancouver Island.

Storage Space

If you are anything like me, cluttered spaces affect your day-to-day life. Which is why it is important to make sure a home has sufficient space to store your Christmas decorations, cleaning supplies, sports equipment, linens, and seasonal clothing. This is not to say you can only buy a home that offers huge walk-in storage spaces and closets. Because with some organization helpers from your local Walmart or Canadian Tire you can make any spaces more efficient.

Natural Light

The brightness of a home is often something initially overlooked by people because you are more focused on other qualities of the home such as the size, layout, or overall attractiveness. However, it is something to be mindful of because while you may not initially realize it, it makes a huge difference. Not only can natural light liven up your home, but it can also help reduce electricity costs such as heat or cooling. During warm days, the sun can significantly warm up your rooms which can lower costs of heat. On the other hand, rooms that offer more shade may lower your cost of air conditioning during hot west coast summers. As we suggested driving around a neighbor hood to get an understanding how busy streets get; it is a good idea to drive around at different times of day to see how different houses get hit with the sun. Something else that is going to affect this is the neighborhoods you choose to live in. If you live in Port Hardy, Comox, Qualicum/Parksville, Nanaimo, Duncan, or Victoria you will experience sun earlier in the day but lose it quicker in the evening than Ucluelet and Tofino who will have sun for longer in the evening and less in the morning. While this is not a significant difference it is something to consider.

Hidden Problems

It is also important to be on the lookout for anything that might be a red flag such as cracked foundation, water damage, or mold. While a home that has been well taken care of and maintained will have a lesser chance of issues, it is always a good idea to get an inspection because professionals will know much more than we do. It is important to not get caught up in a home that is visually appealing externally if there are serious issues internally, and visa versa. Some common issues that you should be aware of include old roofs, does it need to be replaced now, or in a few years? That is a large cost that you should take into consideration when buying a home. Windows are another factor that can contribute to damages so ensure they are properly sealed. Do not let these issues overwhelm you because handling them now and knowing exactly what needs to be resolved will save you a lot of headache down the road.

Who doesn't enjoy a good meal? Lucky for you Vancouver Island has an abundance of restaurants, some of which offer breathtaking views of Vancouver Islands coasts and surrounding mountains. There are so many to choose from we had a hard time narrowing it down.

The Point Restaurant | Tofino

For a truly luxurious dining experience take a drive to Tofino and experience 240-degree views of the ocean at The Pointe Resturant which is apart of Relais & Chateau and is located in the Wickaninnish Inn. The Pointe offers West Coast cuisine featuring all kinds of seafood as well as locally scavenged mushrooms and herbs. Offering you the ultimate west coast experience. With exceptional dining service and The Pointe’s meticulous attention to detail, dining here will leave you with an unforgettable experience.

SOBO | Tofino

Located in Tofino you will find SOBO which is short for sophisticated bohemian and according to individuals, that is exactly what this restaurant encompasses. SOBO began in 2003 as a purple food truck. The chefs are big supporters of ethically sourced produce which is why you will find organic, local and foraged produce throughout their dishes. The chef Lisa Ahier even wrote a cookbook that is available for purchase at the restaurant, so now you can bring a taste of SOBO home. 

Finn’s | Victoria

There is no need to debate over where to get dinner tonight because Finn’s menu has something for everyone. From local seafood, to their famous double thick pork chops, to a AAA steak or even fried chicken sandwiches. There is sure to be something for the whole family. For those of you who can’t pass up a Happy Hour, Finn’s offers Happy Hour specials daily from 4:00 – 5:30 and 9:00pm to closing. If that’s not enough to sell you on Finn’s you can enjoy the sunset and take in the Harbour and Parliament Buildings light up the night sky. 

Tacofino | Tofino

For those of you who are looking for a quick grab and go meal try the food truck Tacofino in Tofino. Tacofino offers customers an array of tacos, burritos and gringas. They are loved by locals and provide quick customer service and affordable prices so you can spend more time surfing and less time waiting. This food truck was such a hit they now have other locations in Victoria and Vancouver, so do not worry if you can’t make it to Tofino this weekend, because you can grab a taco, close your eyes and imagine the waves.  

Bridgeman’s Bistro | Mill Bay

If you find yourself near Mill Bay you must stop in at the Bridgeman’s Bistro. This restaurant offers customers beautiful views of Mt. Baker and the Saanich Inlet. They have indoor seating around a large bar, or you can sit outside in their heated patio even during the winter or a cold rainy day. During the summer enjoy the fresh air as they open their floor to ceiling windows. They offer lunch and dinner menus as well as brunch on weekends. Their food is locally sourced and if you love a good homemade chowder, you have found the right spot.  

Hattie’s Farm Table | Duncan

This restaurant formerly known as Hudson’s is a popular spot for locals. Their motto is farm to table. Which means guests get exceptionally fresh food that is also locally sourced. Hattie’s menu changes depending on what is in season so you can look forward to different dishes. Furthermore, this restaurant has adapted to the pandemic and now offers customers at home packages so you can still enjoy their food in the safety of your home. You can view their menu for the week then place an order online and pick up between 3:00 – 9:00 pm.

Renfrew Pub | Port Renfrew

If you happen to be on Vancouver Islands wild west coast in Port Renfrew you must take a break at the Renfrew Pub. This pub has a nautical charm to it and for many first time customers is somewhere they feel they have been before. Customers have the choice of indoor seating or you can sit on the outdoor deck during a warm day and take in the views of the bay. Enjoy some of their craft brews by the large wood burning stove during a foggy winter day. Renfrew Pub’s menu offers customers a variety of options, the perfect place for seafood lovers, or if you like a classic pub Burger the Renfrew Pub has you covered. 

Alpina Restaurant | Malahat

For truly breathtaking views of the Saanich Inlet, Mt. Baker and Southern Vancouver Island, you must dine at the Alpina Restaurant. Their cuisine has a combination of traditional ingredients from the Alpine regions of France, Switzerland, Italy and Germany. The Alpina Restaurant offers breakfast, lunch and dinner menus. You will have a difficult time choosing what to order because everything sounds amazing. If you want this dining experience on top of the world be sure to make a reservation.  

Strathcona Provincial Park

Strathcona Provincial Park covers a large portion of the central Island. It is also British Columbia’s oldest provincial park dating back to 1911. This park is also Vancouver Island's largest park. Strathcona offers mountains with snow covering their peaks year-round and lakes bordering their bases. Strathcona Provincial Park is also home to Canada’s highest waterfall that drops 440 meters known as Della Falls. However, this waterfall is not seen by many is it involves a strenuous hike through the park. Due to the parks varying elevation, it presents users with an array of trees and floral displays. Anything from Douglas-fir to western hemlock can be found. As for flowers you will be sure to see heather, monkey flowers and lupine to name a few. Since Strathcona Park spans so much of Vancouver Islands forests, you can be sure there is an abundance of wildlife such as coyotes, grizzlies, elk, wolf, and even porcupines. For anyone who loves fishing, you are in luck because this park offers anglers a variety of bodied water to cast your rod in. If backpacking is more your style this is the park for you. However, it is important to be prepared and self-sufficient if you plan to take on this rugged wilderness. Strathcona Provincial Park does not provide backpack users with trail maps; therefore, you must be comfortable and capable of navigating your way. However, for anyone who wants to enjoy the wilderness the park does provide an array of routes and trails which are available on a map. If you want to learn more about what this park has to offer VancouverIsland.com has a great guide.

Juan de Fuca Provincial Park

Juan de Fuca Provincial Park is found in Vancouver Islands southwest point. This park offers users 47 km of hiking trails which follow the coastline. This is the perfect weekend getaway with your friends or even just a day trip. You can take a car and drive the beautiful windy road and stop at one of the four trailheads at China Beach, Sombrio Beach, Parkinson Creek and Botanical Beach. The trail gives users the option of multi-day hiking or easy hiking for day trips. For those of you who enjoy camping, bring a tent, have a fire (only permitted on the beach below high tide marks) and fall asleep to the sound of crashing waves. The park offers users with well maintained trails and boardwalks down to the ocean. At the far western coast of the park near Port Renfrew, Botanical Beach is found with a perfect loop trail that takes users to the coasts edge and through the forest. With the wild waves crashing against the rocks this is a wild west coast experience like no other. For more information about Juan de Fuca Provincial Park check out VancouverIsland.com.

Pacific Rim National Park

Pacific Rim National Park is broken into three regions: Long Beach, the West Coast Trail and the Broken Group Islands. Long Beach is a popular destination for tourists and has more than one million visitors annually. Activities done around long beach include hiking through trails in the rainforest, surfing, kayaking around the bordering islands or taking a stroll on the never-ending beach. Nearby in Tofino and Ucluelet, whale watching and visiting local hot springs are popular activities among tourists and can be offered through a variety of tour companies such as Ocean Outfitters 

The west coast trail is a must do for many outdoor enthusiasts. This trail takes on average a weeklong to complete as users hike 75 km from Port Renfrew to Bamfield. This trail offers everything from rainforests, to sandstone cliffs, secret beaches, suspension bridges, waterfalls and rivers. This truly is a once in a lifetime opportunity. This trail is not for the lighthearted, it is essential users are prepared and experienced before taking on this task.

The Broken Group Islands are located closer to Ucluelet and contain over one hundred islands. Visiting all these islands is only possible by boat or air. However, this is a popular destination for kayakers as there are many sheltered bays to paddle around in. For someone who wants to truly experience the beauty of this Park there are a variety of upscale accommodations such as Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge. Located in the Clayoquot sound and just a short boat ride or plane ride from Tofino. This resort offers the ultimate glamping experience.

Cape Scott Provincial Park

This last park is located at Vancouver Islands most norther tip. It is the Islands most remote and untouched park so if you want a wilderness experience like none other, Cape Scott Provincial Park is the place for you. The park offers users a five-day backpacking hike through 23.6 km of thick trail which begins at the trailhead and ends at the beautiful lighthouse at Cape Scott. Make sure to bring rain gear because the wild waves crashing on the coast will be sure to get you wet. Cape Scott has a heavy black bear population, so it is crucial users are prepared. This coast is also shared with cougars and wolves so be sure to be always alert and aware of your surroundings. For more information about where to hike, rules and tips look at Happiest Outdoors blog on Cape Scott.

While Vancouver is a major city many people dream to live in, it is unaffordable for most. However, there is no need to worry because with a short ferry ride you find yourself on Vancouver Island which offers a much more relaxed lifestyle with breathtaking views, affordable houses, and less traffic than its neighbor across the water. Let us go through just a few of the reasons why you should buy a home on Vancouver Island.

Affordability

Opposed to our neighbors on the other side of the Strait of Georgia, Vancouver Island real estate is affordable and offers buyers opportunities to buy a home for a much more reasonable price. Therefore, that waterfront property you only dreamed of owning can now become a reality. There are many areas to buy in, a few of the more popular real estate markets on Vancouver Island are Victoria, Nanaimo, Port Alberni, and Comox Valley. Each of these areas are unique and offer different things for different people. Which means you do not have to worry about fitting in because there is sure to be the right place for you. But for anyone who cannot decide which area to call home and due to more affordable housing costs, you could even buy a vacation home in Ucluelet.

A Location for Everyone

While Vancouver Island is only about 420 km long it offers a place for everyone. Greater Victoria and South Island is a perfect place for younger people or anyone who enjoys social gatherings as it is close to British Columbia’s busy Capitol. Victoria does however offer various communities which makes it quite versatile. Therefore, if you love going out on the town but have cows to milk in the morning, farmland real estate is not far. 

For those of you who are looking for a wilderness experience in your own backyard, the Pacific Rim is the place for you. Port Alberni offers affordable homes away from the hustle and bustle yet close to outdoor activities. Furthermore, you are only a short drive to the famous Tofino.

For anyone who wants a tropical beach experience… or the closest thing to it, Central Island offers comfortable ocean swimming at Qualicum Beach, plenty of lakes and various golf courses including one of Vancouver Islands oldest golf courses Eaglecrest located in Qualicum Beach.

North Island offers you a wild, untouched experience. As 97% of people live on Vancouver Island’s southern half, the north end provides a secluded unique experience. If you enjoy exploring untouched places you have come to the right place because you will undoubtedly discover endless hidden treasures this Island has to offer.

No Traffic

Being stuck in traffic can add unneeded stress to anyone’s day and can affect your quality of life. However, moving to Vancouver Island will ensure you never witness a rush hour again and instead spend that time elsewhere doing something relaxing and enjoyable. Yes, even in the larger cities on the Island you can still enjoy traffic free commutes and instead spend that time paddling in your kayak. However, no matter where you drive on the Island you are presented with a view. Whether it be beautiful green trees or an ocean view, maybe a little traffic is not so bad after all. 

World-Class Outdoor Recreation

Vancouver Island holds a natural beauty which is easily accessible and has endless surprises. This island allows you to surf, paddle board or swim, then 5 minutes later enjoy lunch at a beachfront restaurant. You can launch a boat nearly anywhere along the coastline or along Port Alberni's Stamp River for some fishing with friends. Perhaps you would rather enjoy a relaxing boat day at Shawnigan or Sproat Lake. If hiking is more your style do not worry because Vancouver Island offers an abundance of trails with breathtaking views. On top of all that, you rarely find yourself surrounded by other people which makes your adventure even more unique. 

 Weekend Getaways

If you want to getaway for the weekend you can spend more time relaxing and less time travelling because Vancouver Island offers numerous getaway spots all within a few hours of your home. Whether you want to surf your weekend away in Tofino while enjoying tacos for lunch. Camp along one of the beaches within the Pacific Marine Circle Route and fall asleep to crashing waves or visit the beautiful Butchart Gardens. When you live on Vancouver Island the closeness of everything allows you to do just that. 

History

Vancouver Island offers a rich history of both First Nations and European heritage. Due to this the Island has an abundance of museums and galleries for you to visit. Take a trip to Victoria and experience the Royal BC Museum with a life-sized woolly mammoth or visit Chemainus and view the murals around town depicting the history before you go to a live theatre show at the Chemainus Theatre. If art piques your interest visit the Roy Henry Vickers Gallery in Tofino

If you are not completely convinced yet, talk to someone who has moved to Vancouver Island, and they will tell you it is worth it. And for those of you who truly cannot live without the big city there is no need to worry because Vancouver is only a short ferry ride away. 

In this video The Fenton Team’s owner and founder of LoyalHomes.ca, Chris Fenton, shares the tools he uses to create the annual plan for our real estate company. Business Planning is without questions one of the most important things that a real estate agent can do with their time, and yet many Realtors don’t know where to start. This video will go over: mission statements, business source tracking, real estate agent goal setting, financial budgeting, financial analysis, and time management.

The Fenton Group, has been a member of the Royal LePage National Chairman’s Club for the past four years. The Chairman’s Club includes the top 1% of real estate agents in the country. Chris Fenton has been a Realtor for 15+ years and holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the Peter B. Gustavson School of Business.

The business planning spreadsheet template used in this video can be downloaded here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GYAqeG4obL_UfYuXD13l9hsSmryU-LA8/view?usp=sharing

If you have any questions about real estate business planning, please leave us a comment below. Happy planning!

Looking for horse property on Vancouver Island? The Fenton Team has compiled a list of properties for sale that are suitable for equestrians and horse owners. 

Port Alberni

7701 Woodward Rd

Stand out features 

• 5.87 acres
• Large barn
• Lush pastures and grazing areas
• Close to trails
• Fenced pastures
• 5,000 sq ft executive home 

7453 Hector Rd

Stand out features 

• 6.9 acres
• Fenced pastures
• Lush grazing areas
• Barn
• Flat terrain

7540 Beaver Creek Rd

Stand out features

• Large barn with hay loft
• 3 level acres of pasture land
• Fruit trees
• Rancher

6081 Stuart Ave  

Stand out features 

• Almost 5 acres of level pasture
• Fenced property line
• Huge barn with electricity 

Coombs

760 Virginia Rd 

Stand out features 

• 34.5 acres
• 12 stall barn
• Sand riding ring
• Fenced pastures
• 15 acres devoted to growing hay

Qualicum Beach  

2775 Turnbull Rd 

Stand out features 

• 4.94 acres
• Electrified fences 
• Heated tackroom
• Riding ring with installed night lights
• 4 stall barn with wash stall and hayloft
• Fenced pastures
• Rancher

Nanoose Bay

1935 Morello Rd 

Stand out features 

• 4 acres
• Barn
• Riding ring
• Fenced pastures
• Rancher

2070 Saddle Dr

• 5 acres
• 11 fenced pastures
• Level land
• Riding ring
• 2 stall barn
• Custom built home

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Are you looking for real-estate in Port Alberni, Qualicum Beach, Parksville, or Nanaimo? Here is a detailed list of the best Central Vancouver Island neighborhoods to live in.

Port Alberni 

Echo: Exton St, Maitland St, Woodland Ave, Kendall Ave, Huff Dr. 

Why people want to live here.

Nicely kept family homes and yards. Close to shopping and amenities. Close to Wood Elementary, Alberni District Secondary, and North Island College. The Port Alberni library, museum, skating rink, sports field, and pool are nearby. 

North Alberni: Glenside Rd, Craig Rd. Michigan Rd. Bishop Cres. 

Why people want to live here.

Nicely kept older homes, walkable streets, close to businesses, amenities and shopping. Close to Blair Park, Williamson Park, an off leash dog park, the Kitsuksis Dyke Trail, and Alberni Elementary. 

Cherry Creek: Horne Lake Rd, Durham St, Cyprus Blvd, Markham Rd. 

Why people want to live here.

 Alberni Golf Club and the Log Train Trail. Large lots and small acreages. Plenty of greenspace and beautiful views of vineyards, mountains and pasture land. 

Qualicum Beach/ Parksville

Qualicum Oceanside: Eagle Crest Dr, Bluffs Dr, Judges Row Dr, Elm Ave. 

Why people want to live here.

Spectacular views of the ocean, walkable  streets, nicely maintained yards and homes, close to beach and recreational activities. 

Central Parksville: Magnolia Dr, Vine Dr, Sandlewood Dr, Ponderosa Dr, Crabapple Cres, James St. 

Why people want to live here. 

New built walkable subdivisions. Close to the Springwood Elementary School, Ballenas Secondary, the Parksville Wetlands Trail, and an off-leash dog park. 

Lantzville/Nanaimo 

Lower Lantzville: Lantzville Rd, Jacks Rd, Dickinson Rd.

Why people want to live here.

Plenty of green space, scenic ocean views, and Woodgrove Centre is nearby. 

North Nanaimo: Groveland Dr, Broadway Rd, Carmanah WY, Carlton Rd. 

Why people want to live here.

Close to shopping and amenities and close to McGirr Elementary, Dover Bay Secondary, Saxer Park, Grovleand Gyro park, and the McGirr Sports Field.

Departure Bay: Hammond Bay Rd, Cosgrove Crescent, Cilaire Dr, Bay St. 

Why people want to live here.

Close to the ocean, nicely kept family homes and yards, close to the Nanaimo Golf Club, Staffordshire Park, Woodstream Park, Departure Bay Centennial Park, Departure Bay School, and the Peak Lookout. 

Vancouver Island is one of the top destinations to visit in Canada. With its natural rugged beauty, vast coastline and notable hospitality, its no wonder why every year thousands of tourists decide to vacation on Vancouver Island. However, not only is Vancouver Island an excellent place to visit, but it is also an excellent place to live. We at the Fenton Team believe that Vancouver Island is one of the best places to live in BC and are proud to call this beautiful island home. We have assembled a list of the top reasons to move here to celebrate the excellence of what is Vancouver Island.

• Nature

From the south to the North, Vancouver Island is packed with forests, beaches, walking trails, lakes, rivers, and mountains. Mount Washington and Mount Arrowsmith are particularly beautiful in winter months. Stamp falls, located in Port Alberni is particularly gorgeous in the fall, and Long Beach, located in Tofino, is a little slice of paradise in the summer. Photographers will be hard pressed not to find a beautiful spot to photograph on Vancouver Island. 

• Outdoor Recreation

People who live on Vancouver Island have access to skiing, golfing, fishing, surfing, camping, boating, rocking climbing, bungee jumping ziplining, hiking, dirt biking, horseback riding, sailing, and scuba diving. There are plenty of outdoor activities and recreation to be enjoyed by retirees and families alike. In addition, there many local businesses offering classes and camps to advance outdoor sports enthusiasts. Soul Sister Surf School in Tofino, for instance, teaches the skills and techniques required to surf. 

• Mild Climate

Vancouver Island often makes the news for how mild its winters are. It is not uncommon to find people golfing in the winter months. Very little snow falls here, and temperatures rarely go below freezing. The mild climate means that you can enjoy doing the outdoor activities you love all year round.  In addition, the summers are hot and there is plenty of sunshine!

•  Lifestyle

The people who live on Vancouver Island enjoy living an active lifestyle. Less traffic also reduces the commute to work and contributes greatly to a less stressful way of living. Here on Vancouver Island everything moves just a little slower, which is great for those seeking calm, and tranquil rural living. Moreover, smaller communities mean that it is easier to get to know one another, and many locals take pride in living within a “tight knit” island community.  

• Locally Grown Food

Here on Vancouver Island we are blessed with an abundance of farmers markets and farms. Therefore, there is no shortage of places to buy quality fresh food. Springford Farm located in Lantzville, has been in service since 1853.  They sell farm raised meat and produce that is free from antibiotics, and hormones. In addition, many restaurants, such as Locals located in the Comox Valley, offer menu items made from Vancouver Island grown food. Little Qualicum Cheese Works supplies many businesses with delicious locally made cheese. Moreover, Coleman Meadows Water Buffalo Dairy, located in Port Alberni, sells farm raised buffalo meat, as well as cheese and gelato. 

• Price

The prices here on Vancouver Island, relative to the mainland, mean that more families can afford to purchase a house. The City of Port Alberni is well known for its affordable house prices and the City of Nanaimo is also a real estate hot spot for people wanting to purchase a home. 

• Wildlife

The natural beauty of Vancouver Island is greatly enhanced by the beauty of its wildlife. The locals of Vancouver Island enjoy seeing bald eagles, black bears, elk, humpback whales, killer whales and barred owls. It's no wonder why many would not want to live anywhere else, with so much wildlife to observe and study. For wildlife lovers and those who want to live close to nature, Vancouver Island is a perfect place to live.