Current Entries August 1, 2009. Here's a rural gem, in the heart of the beautiful Fulford Valley, and just steps to wonderful Burgoyne Valley Park Preserve, and the ocean. Authentic character cottage/home, lovingly restored and retaining all its charm. 2 bed/1 bath (claw foot tub), open plan living dining, country kitchen, mudroom entry with laundry. Garage, outbuildings (one would make a great studio space -- artist? Home occupation?), historic orchard, spring fed wells, very arable one acre. Surrounded by much larger acreages, with homes built quite apart from boundary lines, this parcel is very private and sunny. Enjoy a true Salt Spring Island retreat! July 31, 2009. Here's a beautiful retreat property, on special Salt Spring Island! Oceanfront, with oceanside deck, and easy access to the water -- low bank deep water oceanfront! Foreshore licence -- build your dock, and keep your boat at home! Warm ocean swimming, here, too. Architect designed home, with significant renovations/upgrades in 2008/2009. Master "wing", ensuite, dramatic living with feature stone fireplace, dining with an oceanview, galley style spacious kitchen, with breakfast area off, powder room and laundry area, complete the main level. Upper level, "loft style", offers bedroom, full bath, plus office. Ocean views from all principal rooms, and easy access out to spacious oceanside decking, from living, dining, and master "wing". The plus? Separate studio/guest, with garden privacy. Sunny (s/sw/w exposures), and panoramic views of ocean, islands, mountains. Very private and quiet property, in area of fine homes. Pleasure awaits! July 30, 2009. We're heading into the holiday weekend (B.C. Day holiday on Monday, August 3rd), and this heat wave is supposed to continue. Great for tourism, that's for sure! It's been hovering between 35 and 39 C for past four days, and doesn't cool off at night. It's not our usual marine air, but is blowing out from inland, so retains the heat. Port Alberni, in mid-Vancouver Island, came in as the hottest spot in Canada, on Tuesday, with a high of 40 C! Wow! Ocean swimming is the thing to do, to cool off. Some things to do, on this lovely summer holiday weekend: Catch the exhibits at Salt Spring Woodworks, at corner of Upper Ganges and Churchill Roads (just beyond Hastings House). Enjoy the live music at the Treehouse, in Ganges Village (nightly, and always changing -- one of Salt Spring's treasures). Catch Sid and Arvid's Comedy, Aug 1st, at 8 p.m., at ArtSpring (it's going to be simulcast, on inbternet!). Mark your calendars for Diana Dean's show at ArtSpring's Bateman Gallery (Aug 7th, 8th, 9th, 10 to 5. ("The Mysterious in the Ordinary" is the title of this very talented painter's exhibition). Pegasus Gallery, on the Boardwalk, is showcasing "Coastal Legacy -- NWC Native Master Works" from July 31st to Aug 14th. Catch this! Piaf, Love Conquers All, plays ArtSpring, Aug 5th to 16th -- call box office (250-537-2102) for details). Moby's, at Salt Spring Marina, has live music on Aug 2nd (Bossa Boyz, 7 to 10 p.m. Catch the latest showcase on the stage area at ArtCraft, in Mahon Hall ("Re-Psyched", from July 31st to Aug 13th). Such talented artists grace our Island! Salt Spring vineyards invites you to taste great local wine and food, and picnic at their pond (bring or buy on site). Studio tours on this long weekend include: J. Mitchell Gallery in Grace Point Square, Stone Walrus Gallery, Pegasus Gallery of Canadian Art, B. Louise Woodward at 324 Scott point Drive, Martinus fine gems on Seaview Ave., just above ArtSpring, Madrona Gallery on Cottonwood Road, off Price Road, Stoneridge Pottery on Long Harbour Road, and, of course ArtCraft (showcasing 100 artists). The Painters Guild annual show is on at ArtSpring, daily, through to Aug 6th. Trio Hochelaga plays Sunday, Aug 2nd, at 8 p.m., at ArtSpring. Call ticket centre: 250-537-2102. Boogie at Beaver Point Hall with Great White Shark, on Aug 2nd. From 9 p.m. To 3 a.m. (Tickets at the door). It's Summer! Keep cool! July 29, 2009. "No. No. No. This ruins a child." (Deng Ming-Dao: "Tao...Daily Meditations") July 28, 2009. Slowly, very slowly, we are "upticking" in price point, and the buyer who traditionally looks at Salt Spring Island & the Southern Gulf Islands is back pondering us as a second and third home choice. The primary residence areas (city marketplaces) saw an increase in high end action, by May/June, but in our discretionary market, where no one "has to" live here, and where a decision to purchase is always based on choice, we had viewings but few sales. This has begun to change, and the uptick is occurring right when our traditional grid of action takes place -- mid-July, August, September, into early October. Last year, of course, nothing happened as we were totally into a "fear market". This year, there are cautious steps back into activity, and it's recognized that the low interest rates, the sellers who will "listen" to an offer, and the concern over the validity of cash as an investment vehicle, may not last forever. This is being talked about as an excellent time to buy, and it appears that a lot of potential buyers are listening and are agreeing. The listing inventory remains very "thin", which means that we may start to see multiple offer situations develop on Salt Spring and the other Southern Gulf Islands, as people begin to think about acting, and owners who don't have to sell still want to retain their island properties...only one listing, and several buyers for same, does mean a return to a seller's market. More thoughts? Call anytime! Looking for Island real estate? How may I help you to discover your dream property? liread33@gmail.com July 27, 2009. Looking for a day trip, to some Vancouver Island adventures? Or sample the fun on another Gulf Island? If you've never been to the Filberg Festival, in Comox, maybe this coming weekend is your year? Live music, great food, an almost 60s style artist/musician extravaganza. If this heat keeps up, make sure you wear your hat and take your sunscreen and keep hydrated! Hornby Island's Festival 2009 runs from July 30 through August 8th. Art shows, performances, tickets at: 250-335-1715. Take your bathing suit and enjoy a swim off Tribune Bay beach -- it's like going to Hawaii! The 13th Annual Concert-on-the-green takes place on Gabriola Island on August 6th. Tickets at the Falconer Books location, or at the gate. Coombs Fair! August 8 & 9th. Wave if you see me! (Tickets at gate). Galiano Island's Wine Festival takes place on August 8th. It's a fundraiser for the Galiano Health Centre. Tickets at the door. Enjoy! Take in the wine tours offered in the Cowichan Valley...several at your doorstep, in very pleasing rural landscapes. A short ferry trip from Vesuvius to Crofton puts you on the discovery trail of the Cowichan Valley wineries. Remember to segue through Cowichan Bay, on the "lower road", and enjoy Hilary's Cheese and Deli, and the adjacent organic bread bakery! So good! The Udder Guy Ice Cream is the place to be on a hot day, too. If you're in your own boat, tie up to the docks at the Grapevine Restaurant, in Maple Bay, or the Genoa Bay Cafe, in Genoa Bay, and there's also the Masthead Restaurant in Cowichan Bay. Always fun to try new things, and they're so close by, and it's always great to return to special Salt Spring Island! It's Summer...go adventuring! July 26, 2009. Looking for a premiere property, in lovely Maple Bay, on Vancouver Island? An easy commute to Victoria, and also a quick floatplane flight away from Vancouver. In the heart of the best protected boating waters in the world, Maple Bay has long been on a yachter's list of places to visit. This stellar home has been meticulously renovated, to high design standards, and is essentially a new home. Two amazing guest bed-sitting rooms, both ensuite, plus formal entry at garden level. Dramatic staircase invites one to the open plan living, with dining off, and a dream kitchen. A library/den (could be another guest) is also on this level, plus a bedroom/bath. The master sitting, with wonderful ensuite, enjoys a "loft" style experience...a hidden sanctuary from the rest of the home. Wonderful and unique finishes, and access to the decks and the patios from all principal rooms. Very appealing low maintenance landscaping, double carport! Pleasing vistas over the Bay, the marina, towards the hills of the Gulf Islands. Ready to just move into and enjoy! Oh, and did I mention the electronics???? You're in touch! July 25, 2009. The heat wave is back, and it's definitely "summer on the islands"! Catch the Saturday Market in the Park today, and enjoy the "medieval faire" ambiance. Watch the floatplanes come and go, and enjoy the vista of the village from a different viewpoint. Meander along the Boardwalk, savour a latte from one of the coffee cafes, admire the yachts at the marinas...pop into the galleries and be inspired by the artistic visions of the hugely talented artist base on the island! Feeling energetic? Rent a kayak and paddle out for a picnic on Chocolate Island. Or, rent a scooter, and "do the island" backroads. Walk the beach at Fernwood Dock, picnic at Ruckle Park or at Mt. Maxwell's lookout. Warm ocean swimming at Vesuvius Beach, later... So many lovely and "laid back" things to do on this treasure of an island.... And your suggestions are? Always welcome! July 24, 2009. "Sun shines in the center of the sky. All things turn their faces to the light." (Deng Ming-Dao: "Tao....Daily Meditations") July 23, 2009. Here is a terrific opportunity for you! Private and sunny property on community water system, with vistas towards Vancouver Island mountains. South / Southwest / West exposures and good morning sun (enjoy coffee on your private deck!). Separate studio / workshop (artist?). Super cottage / home offers dramatic bedroom with stone fireplace, plus open plan living / dining, gallery kitchen, stone fireplace in living, "spa style" bathroom. Decking with East / South and Southwest / West exposures expands summer living pleasures! Built in the mid 1980s, by a very talented artist, the home enjoys a romantic ambiance. Totally upgraded in 2008, by a very accomplished contractor, this cottage style retreat home is totally lovely! July 22, 2009. It's "really" summer, at last! Hot, hot, hot...perfect time to swim in the ocean. Don't forget that Salt Spring's "west side" is the home of the warm swimming waters. The beach at Vesuvius beckons, as does the beach access road at end of Arbutus Road, at Southey Point, as does the Cranberry Creek outlet/Bader's Beach, at end of Collins Road. Tide goes out, great beachcombing, and warm water when it rolls in. Look for the trail marker, too, just before West Eagle Road, when heading up Sunset Drive from Vesuvius Bay Road -- another great beach there! The Fernwood Dock area, off North Beach Road, is another great place to check out for ocean swimming/beachcombing pleasures. At the bottom of Grantville Road, off Walker's Hook Road, in the bay created by "the Hook", it's also warm and enjoyable swimming. Lake swimming is your choice? Cusheon Lake's beach access, off Cusheon Lake Road, the "unofficial" access, onto St. Mary Lake, just before Lakeside Gardens resort, the same "unofficial" road access of Beaver Point Road, onto Weston Lake, and Stowell Lake's designated access, with swimming dock. The indoor pool, on Rainbow Road, opens up those doors, and lets the sunshine in...also very enjoyable! Lots of alfresco dining choices, too -- early morning breakfast at the Harbour House Hotel patio, lunch or dinner at Calvin's Bistro's patio -- both these offer great Harbour views. Continue round to Bocados Bistro, and to Auntie Pesto's, in Grace Point Square (lunch and dinner options), plus Seaside Kitchen at Vesuvius and Rock Salt Cafe at Fulford. Mexican at the Boardwalk, and Oystercatcher's deck or their Shipstones patio. Treehouse cafe (live music, at dinner). Moby's at Salt Spring Marina is another al fresco option. Cafe Talia on Hereford, TJ Beans at corner of McPhillips and Lower Ganges (main road), Rendezvous Cafe at Salt Spring Marina, and Barb's Buns in Creekside, off McPhillips Ave., all enjoy alfresco coffees/teas/light meals/desserts. Sunny, (remember your hat!), and perfect picnic weather (Ruckle Park, Drummond Park are suggestions) -- check out the deli counter at Bruce's Kitchen in Harbour Centre, and also the Thrifty's Deli or the Country Grocer Deli, and wander off on your own. There's even the thought of kayaking out to Chocolate Beach, for that picnic, and a swim. Enjoy! It's summer on Salt Spring! July 21, 2009. "Kicking a pebble by the side of the road, Watching it tumble pell-mell. Chance and randomness become order." (Deng Ming-Dao: "Tao...Daily Meditations") July 20, 2009. Here is a magical property, almost 20 acres, totally private and very peaceful, with a custom designed 4 bed/5 bath "west coast" designed home, using "green" options -- would suit a family, or a professional couple, working from home, or a terrific "B & B" style country retreat. Three "self-contained" spaces, here! Barn, pasture, pond, oceanviews, sunny, trail to ocean beach, forest privacy plus open fields, organic veggie garden, orchard, easy care landscaping around home, patio areas/decking, to expand summer living pleasures...this home and property absolutely "sing". If one is looking for a true "retreat", this is it! A meditation Yurt is also on the property. A Zen-Scandanavian ambiance, with total serenity. It awaits.... July 19, 2009. I was very surprised to see very dramatic price reductions come in, this past week, from two different companies, four different realtors. In one case, the reductions were of a quite substantial amount, in one "go". We are just entering our main "grid of activity", for the summer season (last week in July, all of August, most of September). Traditionally, this has always been a very short and intense time for viewings of property. Sometimes the buyer doesn't make an offer until October/November, but the viewing will have inevitably taken place in this truncated time of action. Late July, August, September are, of course, key months for boaters to visit in our waters, and also for tourism to take place. The weather is usually guaranteed to be great, and people who like to travel when children are back in school would turn up in late August and in Sept. Perhaps this is the reason for choosing this past week to bring in such expansive price reductions. Odd timing, though. Vancouver and Victoria are reporting multiple offer moments, and although these are primary residence areas, where people actually live on a year round basis, and would be buying principal residences, we do get the effect of this kind of activity, although perhaps a good 3 to 4 months after Vancouver and about 6 to 8 weeks after Victoria. The corporate office of Re/Max was quoted this past Monday as saying "the buyer's market is over". They also noted that inventory remained very low. I realize that for many sellers on the Gulf Islands, their patience wears thin. Little can be done about this. We are a secondary home/discretionary marketplace, and it is not a "local" market, at all. It still takes between one and three years to sell any property on this year round lifestyle Island, and on the other Southern Gulf Islands (sometimes longer, there, as they are more "summer oriented"). The buyer is from "elsewhere", and they comparison shop for their ultimate retirement property, and for their "short term" recreational needs. Salt Spring and the other Southern Gulf Islands are in competition, then, with Vancouver Island communities and with the Sunshine Coast options. The buyer visits them all, before shortlisting areas. There are wide time gaps between their visits, too. If a property seems to sell quickly, it's usually because a buyer who has been here at least twice, most likely three times, and who has chosen "for" the Island, turns up again when a property that would interest them goes on the market. Time is a component of all sales transactions in all secondary home/discretionary areas, and that's the case, here, too. After a sluggish two years (2006 and 2007), as we were affected by events in the home areas of our main buyer profiles, and a total absence of action in 2008 (which was a global effect), we are now seeing a resurgence of activity in real estate sales. It could be a result of people wanting to get out of cash positions, and into some sort of stable investment. This also might be the reason why most owners don't want to be sellers, unless they "have to". In any case, inventory remains low, everywhere. This upsurge in action is very recent. I would say, just since April. It began in the low end residential. Undeveloped land options and "high end" property categories remain sluggish/nonexistent. There is, however, a slowly gathering "trickle up" effect in play, and just at the beginning of our traditional activity moment, for higher end opportunities. The recent spate of dramatic price reductions, though, even if just a local market manipulation event, to try to jumpstart action, and to have "incoming", not just "outgoing" appearing in a real estate office, has an effect on all sellers. It is essential to remain competitive, so that a property is seen "equally" by a buyer, when that buyer finally turns up. Market value has nothing to do with "intrinsic value", of course. Things sell for more or for less than they are actually worth, depending on "the market" in play. Markets are cyclical. If we are steadily moving into better times, in real estate sales, perhaps because of a fear of hyperinflation or the valuelessness of cash positions, which drives investors back to hard asset investment vehicles, then it seems sad that sellers are choosing such massive price reductions. When the buyer doesn't want to act (which was the case, for our region, throughout 06, 07, and most definitely 08), nothing will propel them into activity, and price reductions do not "bring them" to the table. Now that the buyer is wanting to act, and inventory is very low, further reductions don't make sense. It's the buyer who sets a market, not a seller. The buyer will deliver the offer that they think is "fair", and the seller will then know where they should "be", if they want a sale. Realtors and appraisers are only "interpreters", and they do not create a market. Only a buyer does that. By September, we should have some sales that point the way to a "current market" call. At the moment, it's too soon. By the way, if you drop by the office, and are working with me, please ask for the weekly "driveby lists" of all currently listed properties, and for the weekly "solds to date" information. This is a service that I offer for my client base. More info on the current market conditions? Call anytime! liread33@gmail.com July 18, 2009. Here's a very prime rural/pastoral acreage, with excellent pasture area (keep horses or sheep), plus forest area with your own walking/hiking trails, fenced veggie garden, pond, barn, and a short stroll to one of the "best kept secret" beaches on Salt Spring Island! Appealing home, with oceanview, privacy, serenity, yet close to all services/amenities, plus proximity to sailing club, to golf, to galleries and restaurants. A lovely rural charm! Two ensuite bedrooms, two further bed and bath, entertainment size living, dining off, galley style kitchen with breakfast area, expansive decking, completes main level. Lower garden level offers large recreation room, plus exercise area, storage, bedroom and bathroom, laundry and mudroom. Garage/workshop. Terrific family home, or could be an appealing pastoral B and B opportunity, or would suit a professional couple working from home. Don't miss this very pleasing rural lifestyle opportunity, on special Salt Spring Island! July 17, 2009. "Why mourn for a cocoon After the butterfly has flown?" (Deng Ming-Dao: "Tao...Daily Meditations") July 16, 2009. Nice insert, congratulating Derrick Lundy, the Driftwood photographer par excellence, in this week's local paper. Enjoy the retrospective. Music at Treehouse, every evening...so much talent! Thursday, it's the Hooper Family Band, and Friday catch wonderful Planet Music. I defy you to stand still! Enjoy Windfall, at ArtCraft, July 17 to 30th. This showcase features John Denniston and Robert Andrews, and the title is: Metaphors Subject & Matter Soft & Hardwood Boxes. Don't miss this, on the stage at ArtCraft (at Mahon Hall). Make sure you catch the supremely talented Graffiti Theatre group's presentation of The Labyrinth, a retellingof the myth of Theseus & the Minotaur. 5 shows only! Friday night starts it, at 7 p.m., at ArtSpring. Harry Warner's traditional Irish flair is to be enjoyed at Music and Munch, at All Saints by the Sea, on July 22, at 12:10 p.m. If you haven't made it to any of these lovely concert series, don't miss Harry. Catch Harry and friends at the Salt Spring Vineyard for their Jazz at the Vineyard events -- Wed. and Fri., at 2 to 4 p.m. On this Sunday, the 19th, the Salt Spring Vineyard showcases Bossa Boyz & Diane, from 3 to 5 p.m. Piaf plays at ArtSpring, from July 22 to Aug 2nd, and again from Aug 5th to 16th. Ah, yes, "La Vie en Rose".... Friday night, catch Vishten, an Acadian group from PEI, at ArtSpring (starts at 8 p.m.). Tomorrow night, Thursday, enjoy an evening of jazz, at Market Place Cafe (in Harbour Centre). Scott White on Bass, Henry Bourdin on saxaphone, Pat Coleman on guitar, and James McRea on drums. Reservations for the show, which begins at 7 p.m., might be a good idea! Enjoy it all! Summer on Salt Spring.... July 15, 2009. BBC news reports : Crude oil price falls below $60 Geithner urges derivatives curbs US trade gap lowest in nine years Proof mounts on restricted diet Royal household turns to Twitter Hardware markers support Google OS Swine flu infects Argentine economy Oldest dinosaur burrow discovered July 14, 2009. It's Bastille Day celebrations, in France! Play your Charles Aznavour or Edith Piaf, and enjoy a little wine and cheese, on this important French historical moment date. Maybe a little French style meal at one of our alfresco dining choices? July 13, 2009. Here is a majestic property, with a 270 degree view, and a soaring ambiance...ocean, islands, mountains...it's superb! Architect designed and custom built, this three bedroom (two master sitting with ensuites/dressing areas) and three bathroom beauty enjoys the very best oceanview on Salt Spring Island. Dramatic living, oceanview dining, forest privacy plus that eagle's aerie vista...it rests the soul. Easy care, "natural" property, close to everything and yet with its own appealing serenity. Enjoy! July 12, 2009. Very interesting, this "mixed media" moment we're in.... So important, when all the "news" points us in only one direction, focusing us on some aspect, that we remember we also have peripheral vision skills. There is no road map right now, and this "real beginning" to the 21st Century is just taking shape. One needs to be consciously bringing the editing function to all this sloshing around of raw data, in order to practice our human skill of making sense of raw material. That peripheral vision skill set will help. The Year of the Fear, which is what I'm calling 2008, certainly created a shuddering halt to "everything". The societal meltdown (financial institutions faltering, major companies disappearing, stock markets collapsing, housing bubble bursting...) was certainly a fearful moment, and in such times it's human to simply "stop". When one is in shock, one doesn't "act". Underneath all that, though, the peripheral vision beings were noting signs that there could be a recovery. Not, however, a return to past conditions. The endless printing of paper money, with all the bailouts to stave off a total plunge to the bottom, are eroding the value of a currency. It seems very likely that hyperinflation will occur. Cash could certainly be the next "bubble". In spite of the gloomy media reporting (they do not forecast, they "follow" the herd, and are repetitive in nature), some people were on the hunt of good hard asset investment late last Fall. By February, globally, there was a return to interest in real estate as an investment vehicle, although it was only in the low end residential options. The luxury market remained "flat". That's when it was noted that sales volume may have been down (by as much as 54%!), but inventory had remained low. Unless one "had to", one simply did not want to sell. Where would one go? What to do with the money? Can't trust cash/the banks! You get the drift.... Back in October, I forecast an early Spring upsurge. I also forecast, in still gloomy January, that the media would flip to the positive by May. I'm on record as saying that by mid-July we would start to see movement in the higher end options, with August being a pivotal month in that market segment. Fear of inflation may be the driver to action, from this market category. The protected nature of a Gulf Islands investment, due to the cap on growth from the Islands Trust, is an attractive feature, of course. This is not a time to keep suppressing prices, from a seller's perspective, and it's not a time to assume one can "lowball" an offer, from a buyer's perspective. There's not enough inventory out there, to assume that a buyer is in control. Mulitple offers are occurring in the city marketplaces, and this may happen on the Gulf Islands, soon. More info? Call anytime...am always quickly available. liread33@gmail.com July 11, 2009. Here is an exceptional and dramatic oceanview home, on special Salt Spring Island! Almost seven acres of privacy and all day sun exposure, this brand new home offers incredible finishing choices and a wonderful "Zen-Scandanavian" west coast design ethic. Main level: superb master "wing", with a bathroom to delight, opening onto a hot tub deck -- wrap around ocean, islands and mountain vistas to meditate upon. Exercise room, laundry, powder room beyond compare. Dramatic living, feature stone fireplace, dining room with a window wall that opens onto a spacious deck, with alfresco dining and barbecue area...in the summer season, this window wall "disappears", and you are open to the views! A cook's dream kitchen, huge pantry with mudroom entry. Garden level offers gallery/foyer, guest bed/bath, media/entertainment room, craft area/storage, and a terrific office (could be a third bed, if desired). Access to view patio from all rooms. Infloor heat, cherry wood floors, copper accents in concrete flooring, skylights, custom windows, doors opening onto decking/patio spaces from all rooms, to expand summer living pleasures, beautiful and dramatic pond feature at main entrance...so many unique features here! Must be seen! Zoned for sep. guest cottage and sep. studio. Walk your own trails! And those views!!!!!! This is the very best. July 10, 2009. Live music, to enjoy nightly at Treehouse. Tonight, catch Sunyata, a terrific group (and if you can't catch them this evening, you can find them tomorrow, same venue). Frankly Scarlett jewellery and fine gifts, awaits your discovery and pleasure in Grace Point Square. If you haven't visited this eclectic and pleasing space, you have a treat before you. Mark your calendars...Friday, July 17th, at ArtSpring, direct from PEI, the Acadian group Vishten, brings a mix of Scottish, Irish, French fiddle music and step dancing to entice and to wake you up! Enjoy! At ArtSpring, starting at 8 p.m. Catch the Precious Metals display at ArtCraft, through to the 16th. I'm pleased to sponsor this talent from our silver and goldsmiths. How lucky we are to live on this Island! Graffitti Theatre presents "The Labyrinth", a retelling of the myth of Theseus and the Minotaur, at ArtSpring, 5 shows only, July 17th at 7 p.m., the 18th at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., and the 19th at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. This is an incredibly talented theatre group. Enjoy! Don't forget the Stone Walrus Gallery sale of "everything", up to 60% off, as they wind down their long career as gfft/jewellery afficianados. Benefit from their retirement plans. Catch Alain Besson's last concert on Salt Spring Island, on July 15th, with a special guest from Belgium. Show starts at 8 p.m., at ArtSpring. Dining out? Lots of choices, and all "stellar". Calvin's Bistro, Bocados Bistro, Marketplace, Bruce's Kitchen, Harbour House Hotel, Seaside Kitchen, Salt Spring Inn, Piccolo's, Hastings House, Auntie Pesto's, Rock Salt Cafe, Moby's. Lighter fare? Rendezvous Cafe, Cafe Talia, Jana's Bakeshop, TJ Beans, Salt Spring Roasting Company. Wave if you see me! It's summer, it's light until almost 10:30, and it's great to be outdoors. July 9, 2009. Here's a gem of a Salt Spring retreat home, just steps from wonderful Beddis Beach, and in a tranquil rural area. Close to park hiking / walking trails, and just minutes back to Ganges Village and to all amenities / services, and yet enjoying a lovely sense of "apartness". Fenced easy care "natural" property, very creative home design, lovingly cared for and ready to just step into and to enjoy. Would suit a couple, interested in working from home, and would also suit a family experience. Sunny, private, rural ambiance, quiet area. A gem! Cusheon Lake is nearby, too! A "best buy" price for an appealing Salt Spring Island home. July 8, 2009. Last October, which some might describe as a horrific bottom (stock market losses, bank instability/credit crunch, housing crash), with everyone in fear mode and panic, I began to blog that I thought we would see a return to real estate action by early Spring. We did. I didn't find many who agreed with me, at that time, and there were a lot of massive price reductions coming through from local companies. Panic was the scene! Yes, sales volume was down (in some areas by 54 percent!), but that just meant buyers were inactive. Listing inventory, on the other hand, remained relatively stable. Death, divorce, and moving to assisted living are always the key reasons for selling, and wanting to try a Plan B is a much smaller segment in our discretionary market area. Salt Spring Island and the Southern Gulf Islands have evolved, post-internet, into secondary home/discretionary markets, and so a purchase on a Gulf Island can be put on hold by a buyer. This is the case regardless of whether it's an up market or a down market moment. No one "has to" move to Salt Spring Island, or to another Gulf Island -- it's always by choice, and so, in a way, it's always a buyers market, regardless of market trend in play, at any given moment. In this area, a buyer sets the "where" and the "when" of all transactions. It usually takes three visits, with substantial time periods between visits (the buyer isn't local), before a purchaser will decide to make an offer, on a particular Island. This is why it can take two to three years to sell any property on any Gulf Island, regardless of property type or price. For a more expensive option, it can take much longer. The buyer for same has a lot of choice, in the entire world, for that second or third home option. Many sellers do not realize that their property is in competition with areas in other Coastal regions (Vancouver Island, Victoria environs, Sunshine Coast, other Gulf Islands, etc). One can understand a seller's wish to sell as quickly as possible, but the buyer is the other side of this equation, and it all takes time, in any discretionary market. This is why the "days on market" feature isn't relevant in a secondary home/non-local market region. It's also a reason why constant price reductions, during a "pause period", have no effect in a secondary home market. When the buyer doesn't want to act, nothing will happen. This recent constant reducing of prices effort, then, by some realtors, in a futile desire to jumpstart action during the "pause period", even when the buyer wasn't "around", had the sad result of erasing equity for the sellers. Since the buyer was too afraid to act, the reductions were of little consequence. Local market manipulation has little to do with a market trend. Appraisers feel that the market softened between 8 and 15 percent in our area, over the past two years, depending upon property type. Not, however, by 30 percent, as was the case in some U.S. areas, where speculative oversupply was a part of their problem. The media reporting throughout the Fall of 2008 was dire, and panic mode set in. No one was paying attention to the massive printing of paper money to fund all those bailouts. The media is always "out" by 90 to 120 days, of course, and their statistics are only "partial", as they only reflect mls sales. I thought we would see a return to good hard asset investment by early Spring, based on a concern about the validity of cash itself, and by February it was beginning. My thought was that cash would be the next bubble. In very early February, the low end residential market flowered into action. Apparently, this was experienced globally. Investor buyers were back. So much paper money being printed, nothing backing same but more paper and a government, and with the fear that the end result of this would be hyperinflation -- yes, fear can make people stop in their tracks, but it can also propel action. I thought we would see the resurgence of hard asset investment by early Spring, and it was a good sign that the beginning was in the lower end options -- it showed "health" to the turnaround. Interestingly enough, it was mirrored by a renewed interest in the art market -- there is a correlation of sales of art at auctions and the real estate sales pattern in discretionary markets, I think. I thought we would see a complete reversal of media reporting by May, and we did. I also thought we would see some very tiny steps into sales of the higher end/luxury properties by May, as well, and we did. The listing inventory remains "thin". Most owners do not want to be sellers, unless they "have to". Buyers are back. They do not trust paper money as the vehicle for preservation of capital. Interest rates remain at historic lows, but perhaps not for much longer. To stave off inflation, interest rates will have to rise. And hyperinflation? I read some newsletters where the expert thinks maybe three years from now. I think it will be here a lot faster -- by mid-2010? Perhaps. Time, in the 20th Century model, has been erased. Can't count on lengths of time anymore. It's a binary world now. On, off, on, off...no time, just always. We're in a societal shift, that's for sure, and no one has a roadmap in their backpack! Some things to consider: Salt Spring Island and the Southern Gulf Islands are under the jurisdiction of the provincial govenment mandated Islands Trust. It's been in place since 1974, and its purpose is to "preserve and protect", for the benefit of all B.C. residents, the environmental and ecological beauties of the Islands. Growth has been capped on all the Islands, by strict zoning/density controls. I call that "protected investment", and the Trust has created an "enclave area" on every Gulf Island, thus. Low inventory always, because of the Trust control of growth, current historically low interest rates, the inevitability of inflation at some point, based on the vast amounts of paper money being printed to cover the bailouts, the concern that banks may be shaky still, in the aftermath of the subprime fiasco/resulting credit crunch -- it is a moment for a saavy investor to consider a valid purchase on Salt Spring Island or on another Southern Gulf Island. Excellent climate, good schools, all amenities for a year round lifestyle, ability to be self-sufficient, in the heart of the best protected boating waters in the world, close to major centres and yet with a wonderful sense of "apartness"...practically perfect, I think! Timing is everything. It might not be a good time to sell, but it's definitely a good time to buy. More information? Call me! How may I help you to buy your special Salt Spring Island or Southern Gulf Island dream property? liread33@gmail.com July 7, 2009. Looking for one of the most beautiful homes on Salt Spring Island? Here it is, and it's located in Maracaibo, on the oceanfront, with appealing views over Trincomali Channel, towards Galiano and Mayne Islands. Sunny, private, in an area of very fine homes, this beauty awaits your pleasure. A custom design, and in "as new" state, the floor plan and the quality finishes are very impressive. A terrific home for a professional couple, wishing to work from home, and would also suit a family. Easy care "natural" property, a trail down to the water, and access to all of Maracaibo's many significant amenities -- tennis, salt water swimming lagoon, docks for your boat, dinghy dock, miles of walking trails, huge forest preserve areas, and all of this natural splendour mere minutes from the services, galleries, restaurants, amenities of Ganges Village. This is truly a gem of a property and home. Enjoy! July 6, 2009. "Every river has its banks, Every ocean has its shores." (Deng Ming-Dao: "Tao...Daily Meditations") July 5, 2009. Here we are, at the midpoint of the year. In early February, locally, we saw a return to real estate as an investment vehicle. We also saw buyers, who felt they couldn't afford a Gulf Island purchase, in the heady days of 2002 to early 2006, when it was a sellers market, now deciding to take advantage of low interest rates and reduced prices/motivated sellers. The low end residential was the place of action from early February to end of April, 2009. Undeveloped land and higher end properties remained "flat". I think a concern over the validity of cash itself (so much being printed, nothing backing same but more paper and a government) was a prime motivator in getting buyers back to a real estate purchase. In mid-May, we saw six sales over one million, and one w.f. sold very close to 2 million. Then, the sales sank back into the low end residential category. Undeveloped land remains totally quiet. The main grid of activity in the higher end properties is always from mid-July to mid-September, so the early flurry in mid-May could have been a significant pointer in this direction. The fear that cash could be the next bubble, in tandem with a concern that hyperinflation can be the only outcome of all that printing press currency, could be the real impetus behind the apparent return to hard asset investment. In any case, real estate sales are improving globally, and the resurgence has been mainly in the lower end categories, to date, also globally. The media have been reporting the uptick in our coastal areas since late May. They've also noted a rise in sales, in the luxury market, in our cities. We may see this in our secondary home/discretionary marketplace by August. I think we will look back and see all of 2006 and 2007 as having been "flat"/inactive (interesting that they're now reporting that the U.S. has been in recession since August, 2007). 2008 will be seen as the "bottom" year, with the absolute bottom showing between October 2008 and end of January 2009. Real estate, like all markets, is cyclical, and is always fluid. We could be returning to a more stable time, where housing will not be treated as a commodity. Whatever the path's outcome, it's on the way, and by end of September I expect a sales pattern that will, at long last, allow the appraisers to have a benchmark for their interpretive function. For the past 3 years, with so few sales, and no "pattern" evident, the appraisers had a tough time of it! More details on market conditions, on Salt Spring Island and on the Southern Gulf Islands? Give me a call! Successfully connecting buyers and sellers, on the Islands, since 1989, I look forward to bringing my expertise and knowledge to your benefit. How may I help you to buy your Salt Spring Island or Southern Gulf Islands property? liread33@gmail.com July 4, 2009. Happy July 4th to all our U.S. friends! If anyone is out in a boat, and close to Roche Harbour on San Juan Island, don't miss the incredible fireworks display! Enjoy! July 3, 2009. I'm always happy to sponsor various art presentations, as I do believe that artistic expression "feeds the soul", and this next week the Precious Metals display at ArtCraft is one of the things I am pleased to "present", via sponsorshiip of the Salt Spring Arts Council. Tonight is the opening reception, between 6 and 8 p.m. The silver and goldsmiths will be in attendance, and their magical work will be showcased on the stage of Mahon Hall. This special presentation runs from July 3 to 16th. See you there! This Sunday is the 7th Annual Lavender Festival at Sacred Mountain Lavender location on Musgrave Road. Lots going on! Don't miss this event. Music and Munch, on July 8th, welcomes renowned harpist, Josh Layne. Performance begins at 12:30, at All Saints by the Sea, followed by an optional lunch ($5.50). Enjoy! Wander into Jill Louise Campbell Gallery, across from Treehouse Cafe...you will be instantly energized by Jill's paintings. Evocative and romantic renderings, that both soothe and interest the soul. Love the sailboats clustering in race mode, off one of the Harbour islands, in a new painting by Jill. If you haven't made it to the photography exhibition at ArtSpring, Lumiere, don't miss this -- it runs till July 12th. Such talent, on this Island! Not too late to get involved with the ArtSpring's main fundraiser event, Treasure Fair. Silent and live auctions, between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., Thursday through Saturday, July 16 to 18. Salt Spring Woodworks Inside/Outside show opens for the summer season, with new sculpture and art furniture on display. Amazing works, here! Open daily, for the "season", between 10 and 5. Don't forget the Salt Spring Potters Guild, with their annual summer showcase in the windows of Mark's Work Wearhouse. The theme this year is "Our Harbour". So much to see and to do, in this busy summer season! Enjoy! July 2, 2009. Looking for a peaceful retreat on special Salt Spring Island? Here's a magnificent almost 20 acres of sunny serenity! Four ensuite bed sitting rooms, some offering self-contained potential. If you're interested in offering a B and B oriented lifestyle, then this would be ideal! Would also suit a professional couple, working from home -- offices and seminar space! A family retreat? Perfection! A commercial style kitchen, that is very convenient for just two or for a group. Organic veggie garden (fenced), orchard, barn, workshop, studio, yurt (a meditation space?), pasture, swimming pond, oceanviews, trail to beach, forest with private walking trails, easy care landscaping...this is a truly tranquil property. Close to all services/amenities, and to golf, tennis, theatre, yet in its own wonderfully prvate and quiet world. Totally unique and totally irreplaceable! July 1, 2009. Happy Canada Day! A time to celebrate that we live in a beautiful country, with quality lifestyle, and the freedom to express our individuality. Enjoy the many celebratory Island events today: the parade, the community birthday cake, the classic car show, the live music venues, and culminating with the fireworks display at dusk, at Ganges Harbour. It is the birthday of a very special country. Enjoy!

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