FALL buyers' market on the Sunshine Coast, BC

For both buyers and sellers, one piece of advice stands above all else: work with a local agent.

Real estate is hyper-local, and having someone who knows the neighborhoods, the nuances, and the people makes all the difference. I can tell you which areas are best suited for families, which have quirks you need to watch out for, and what fair market value really looks like here.

If you’re buying, a local agent can save you from wasting time on overpriced or problematic properties. If you’re selling, working with someone established on the Coast ensures your home is included in local tours, seen by serious agents, and properly positioned in the market. Out-of-town REALTORS® often lack the relationships and insights that really matter here.

Of course, knowledge alone isn’t enough. Marketing plays a huge role. When I came to the Coast 13 years ago, I invested heavily in branding at a time when no one else was doing it. My goal wasn’t to be everywhere for the sake of vanity—it was to be the third REALTOR a seller called when making a decision. Most people get three opinions: the agent they used last time, the family member who just got licensed, and one local professional. I wanted to be that third one, and once I got in the door, I knew I could make the case.

Today, my marketing is both broad and specific. The branding you see around town is about trust and familiarity. But when it comes to individual properties, the strategy is precise: great digital tours, strong online exposure, and an emphasis on lifestyle. It’s not just about the house itself—it’s about the hikes nearby, the neighborhood vibe, the community you’re stepping into. Buyers want to know what life looks like here, not just the square footage.

Print advertising doesn’t cut it anymore. No one buys a house because they saw it in a magazine; by the time it’s in print, the listing could already be sold. Digital is where buyers are looking, and that’s where I focus.