The Myplace Playbook // 025

Hey Everyone,

With the Bank of Canada choosing to hold rates steady at 2.75%, we’ve entered a bit of a Goldilocks zone, not too hot, not too cold. It’s not the “crazy low” days of 2021, but it’s not the high-anxiety market of 2023 either. In other words: it’s a good time to get strategic.

So you hit Realtor.ca and the search is on.

As I know many of you have, because I do it too, you’ve probably spent more hours than you’d like to admit fiddling with filters and keywords on Realtor.ca, trying to dial in just the right search.

You start off looking for a modest 3-bed in Cranbrook and next thing you know you’re comparing oceanfront in Labrador to a 400-acre canola farm in Saskatchewan. It happens.

While fun, it’s probably not that productive, however your Realtor has seen a lot of homes, and asking the right questions during your search can surface features that don’t show up in a search bar but might just make your home more affordable, more flexible, and more future-proof.

A south-facing roof with a decent angle and good exposure makes a big difference if you're thinking about solar, whether that means savings now or down the road. Bonus points if the electrical panel is already sized for expansion.

Even if it’s not suited yet, look for separate entrances, extra plumbing rough-ins, and zoning potential. But also watch for things that could make it awkward, like shared / pass through the kitchen and down the stairs entrances, no privacy, or tight parking.

Mini-split heat pumps and modern high-efficiency systems are a major win in Cranbrook’s changing climate. They’ll save you money, and keep you comfy in July and January.

South-facing yards get more sun, more often, and that means real potential.
With how wet this summer has been, it only takes 30 seconds driving past any of Cranbrook’s community gardens to see how much food you could grow here. We’re also the sunniest (usually) place in BC, why not make the most of it?

Light-coloured exteriors and roofs reflect heat, making homes easier to cool in summer. Especially helpful in newer subdivisions where shade trees aren’t doing much (yet).

Detached buildings can evolve, into home offices, gyms, guest space, or even rental units. If it’s powered, insulated, or just has good bones, it’s worth asking about. With rates holding steady, you’ve got some breathing room. And when you pair that with smart house features, you set yourself up for long-term wins, not just a lower payment today, but a more livable, affordable home for years to come.

There’s only so much a search filter can tell you. These small questions can lead to big wins, whether it’s lowering monthly bills, unlocking rental potential, or just making day-to-day living easier.

Your Realtor sees things you might miss, and I can help your mortgage work as hard as your down payment does.

If you're looking at homes and wondering what’s really worth paying attention to, I’d love to be part of that conversation. Let’s look beyond the basics and find something that fits your life.

Enjoy the weekend!

-Andrew