BC Property Assessment by Region [Video]

Katherine Martin • January 11, 2016

 

This is the 2016 British Columbia property assessment overview. Prepared for you by us, BC Assessment, your trusted go-to source for property information.

 

2016 property assessments are based on property values as of July 1st, 2015. So if you own property in BC, your property assessment will be mailed to you in January, so look for your assessment in the mail. There are some interesting facts to consider for 2016, for example, the total number of properties within BC has increased to about 2 million or 1.06% increase from 2015. The total value of all real estate has increased over 1.3 trillion dollars. That’s an 11.1% increase from 2015, and the value-added from new construction, subdivisions and rezoning alone is equal to 20.3 six billion dollars, an 8.9% increase from 2015.

Let’s take a look at some highlights in BC’s regions, starting in Greater Vancouver where 2016 increases are quite dramatic.

  • A typical urban residential single detached home is up 15-30 % and climbing compared to last year.
  • Urban residential strata units, are generally up a relatively modest 10%, and greater Vancouver’s highest assessed home, is nearly sixty four million dollars for 2016.
  • Greater Vancouver’s urban commercial properties are also up significantly, with typical increases in the 10-25% range for 2016.

Next stop, let’s head further south, here we have included southern parts of Metro Vancouver, such as Richmond and Surrey, along with the usual Fraser Valley Community.

  • Typical residential single detached homes have increased by 5-25% in urban areas, with changes of minus 5 plus 5% in rural areas.
  • Residential strata units have generally experienced an increase of 0-10% compared to last year and commercial property increases, are in the 5-15% range.

Now let’s head further east to the Thompson Okanagan region.

  • Typical residential homes increased anywhere from 0-10% in urban areas, and 0-5% in rural areas.
  • Changes to commercial property assessments are generally in the minus 5 to plus 10% range.

Next off, let’s head over to the Kootenay Columbia region.

  •  Typical residential homes are experiencing changes of 0-10%, in both rural and urban areas.
  • Commercial properties are generally changing by minus 5 to plus 5%.

Now let’s head north to the vast northern BC region.

  •  Both residential homes, as well as commercial properties have experienced changes in the range of 0-10%, in both rural and urban areas.

Finally, let’s head back south, down the coast, to the Vancouver Island region.

  •  Across the island typical residential homes have changed in the minus 5 to plus 10% range compared to last year
  • Commercial properties are generally changing minus 5 to plus 5%

Here’s how each region’s single highest assessed home stacks up for 2016. The Greater Vancouver region, Vancouver Island region, the Fraser Valley region, the Thompson Okanagan region, the Kootenay Columbia region, and the northern BC region. To find out more on the top value of residential properties in your region, visit the top 100 lists for each region and the expanded top 500 list for the entire province at bcassessment.ca.

With our comprehensive approach and innovative technologies, such as street front imagery and 3D modeling, and by using a number of information sources; like building permits, land titles office, real estate transactions, on-site inspection, aerial and street front imagery, and owner reporting through online questionnaires and forms.  We prepare fair, uniform, and equitable assessments. We want to make sure we give you the best customer service and most accurate information possible. So, look for your assessment in the mail arriving in January. We encourage you to compare it online to other property values in your area, using our evalue BC service at bcassessment.ca.

If you haven’t received your assessment, or if you have more questions about your assessment after using our services, call us at 1 866 value BC. If you want to file an appeal, you need to file by the February 1st, 2016 deadline. We value conversation, so start the conversation, by following us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. We are BC Assessment your trusted go-to source for property information, and we value BC.

Katherine Martin


Origin Mortgages

Phone: 1-604-454-0843
Email: 
kmartin@planmymortgage.ca
Fax: 1-604-454-0842


RECENT POSTS

By Katherine Martin May 13, 2026
Don’t Forget About Closing Costs When planning to buy a home, most people focus on saving for the down payment. But the truth is, that’s only part of the equation. To actually finalize the purchase, you’ll also need to budget for closing costs —the out-of-pocket expenses that come up before you get the keys. Closing costs can add up quickly, which is why they should be part of your pre-approval conversation right from the start. Lenders will even require proof that you’ve got enough funds set aside. For example, if you’re getting an insured (high-ratio) mortgage, you’ll need at least 1.5% of the purchase price available in addition to your down payment. That means a 10% down payment actually requires 11.5% of the purchase price in cash to make everything work. Let’s break down some of the most common expenses you should prepare for: 1. Home Inspection & Appraisal Inspection : Paid by you, this gives peace of mind that the property is in good shape and doesn’t have hidden problems. Appraisal : Required by the lender to confirm value. Sometimes this is covered by mortgage insurance, sometimes by you. 2. Legal Fees A lawyer or notary is required to handle the title transfer and make sure the mortgage is properly registered. Legal fees are often one of the larger closing costs—unless you’re also responsible for property transfer tax. 3. Taxes Many provinces charge a property or land transfer tax based on the home’s purchase price. These fees can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars, so you’ll want to factor them in early. 4. Insurance Property insurance is mandatory—lenders won’t release funds without proof that the home is insured on closing day. Optional coverage like mortgage life, disability, or critical illness insurance may also be worth considering depending on your financial plan. 5. Moving Costs Whether you’re renting a truck, hiring movers, or bribing friends with pizza and gas money, moving comes with expenses. Cross-country moves especially can be surprisingly pricey. 6. Utilities & Deposits Setting up new services (electricity, water, internet) can involve connection fees or deposits, particularly if you don’t already have a payment history with the utility provider. Plan Ahead, Stress Less This list covers the big-ticket items, but every purchase is unique. That’s why it pays to have an accurate estimate of your personal closing costs before you make an offer. If you’d like help planning ahead—or want a breakdown tailored to your situation—let’s connect. I’d be happy to walk you through the numbers and make sure you’re fully prepared.
By Katherine Martin May 6, 2026
Alternative Lending in Canada: What It Is and When It Makes Sense Not everyone fits into the traditional lending box—and that’s where alternative mortgage lenders come in. Alternative lending refers to any mortgage solution that falls outside of the typical big bank offerings. These lenders are flexible, creative, and focused on helping Canadians who may not qualify for traditional financing still access the real estate market. Let’s explore when alternative lending might be the right fit for you. 1. You Have Damaged Credit Bad credit doesn’t have to mean your homeownership dreams are over. Many alternative lenders take a big-picture approach . While credit scores matter, they’ll also look at: Stable employment Consistent income Size of your down payment or existing equity If your credit has taken a hit but you can demonstrate strong income and savings—or have a solid explanation for past credit issues— an alternative lender may approve your mortgage when a bank won’t. Pro tip: Use an alternative mortgage as a short-term solution while you rebuild your credit, then refinance into a traditional mortgage with better terms down the line. 2. You're Self-Employed Being your own boss has its perks—but mortgage approval isn’t usually one of them. Traditional lenders require verifiable, consistent income—often two years’ worth. But self-employed Canadians typically write off significant expenses, reducing their declared income. Alternative lenders are more flexible and understanding of self-employed income structures. If your business is profitable and your personal finances are healthy, you may qualify even with lower stated income. Even if interest rates are slightly higher, this option is often worth it—especially when balanced against tax planning and business deductions . 3. You Earn Non-Traditional Income Today’s income sources aren’t always conventional. If you earn through: Airbnb rentals Tips and gratuities Rideshare or delivery apps (like Uber or Uber Eats) Commissions or contracts You might face challenges with traditional lenders. Alternative lenders are often more willing to work with these non-standard income streams , especially if the rest of your mortgage application is strong. Some will consider a shorter income history or evaluate your average earnings in a more flexible way. 4. You Need Expanded Debt-Service Ratios Canada’s mortgage stress test has made it harder for many borrowers to qualify with big banks. Alternative lenders can offer more generous debt-service ratio limits —meaning you might be able to qualify for a larger mortgage or a more suitable home, especially in competitive markets. While traditional GDS/TDS limits typically sit at 35/42 or 39/44 (depending on your credit), some alternative lenders will go higher, especially if: You have a larger down payment Your loan-to-value ratio is lower Your overall financial profile is strong It’s not a free-for-all—but it’s more flexible than bank lending. So, Is Alternative Lending Right for You? Alternative lending is designed to offer solutions when life doesn’t fit the traditional mold . Whether you're rebuilding credit, running your own business, or earning income in new ways, this path could help you get into a home sooner—or keep your current one. And here’s the key: You can only access alternative lenders through the mortgage broker channel . Let’s Explore Your Options Not sure where you fit? That’s okay. Every mortgage story is unique—and I’m here to help you write yours. If you’re curious about alternative mortgage products, want a second opinion, or need help getting approved, let’s talk . I’d be happy to help you explore the best solution for your situation. Reach out anytime. It would be a pleasure to work with you.