With Vancouver’s high rental costs and competitive real estate market, many parents are considering purchasing a home for their university-bound children instead of paying rent. Whether your child is attending the University of British Columbia (UBC) or another post-secondary institution, buying a property can be a strategic investment that not only provides stability but also builds long-term equity.

Key Benefits of Buying Instead of Renting

1. Building Equity Instead of Paying Rent

Instead of spending thousands on rent each year, homeownership allows you to put that money toward a mortgage—helping you build wealth over time. Vancouver’s property values have historically appreciated, making real estate a solid investment.

2. Stability for Your Child’s University Years

Owning a home gives your child a stable and comfortable living environment, reducing the stress of finding rental housing in Vancouver’s tight market. Plus, it allows them to focus on their studies without the worry of rising rent costs or potential evictions.

3. High-Demand Rental Market for Future Income

If your child moves out after graduation, properties in Kitsilano, Fairview, Kerrisdale, and UBC campus areas are always in high demand. You can easily rent out the home to students, young professionals, or families, ensuring a steady rental income.

4. Tax and Mortgage Benefits

If structured correctly, purchasing a home for your child may offer potential tax advantages. Parents may qualify for favourable mortgage terms, and rental income after your child moves out can offset property costs.

5. A Head Start in the Vancouver Real Estate Market

With real estate prices continuing to rise, buying now means your child has an asset in one of Canada’s most desirable housing markets. Whether they choose to live in it long-term or sell it for a profit, they’re getting a foothold in Vancouver’s real estate market early.

Best Neighbourhoods to Buy for University Students

Kitsilano – Close to UBC with excellent transit, beaches, and a vibrant community, Kitsilano is a top choice for students who want a balance of lifestyle and convenience.

Fairview – A central location with easy access to public transit, shopping, and dining, Fairview offers strong rental demand and a mix of condos and townhomes.

Kerrisdale – A quiet, family-friendly area with great amenities and proximity to UBC, Kerrisdale properties tend to hold their value well.

UBC Campus – Buying directly on UBC lands provides unmatched convenience for students and strong rental potential, as demand is consistently high from both students and faculty.

Is Buying a Home for Your University Student Right for You?

Every family's situation is different, but if you're in a position to invest in real estate, purchasing a property for your child can be a strategic financial move. Not only does it save on rent, but it also offers long-term financial benefits and potential rental income.

If you're considering buying a home for your child while they attend university, let's chat! I specialize in Vancouver real estate and can help you find the perfect property in high-demand neighbourhoods like Kitsilano, Fairview, Kerrisdale, and UBC.

Finding a truly pet-friendly home in Vancouver isn’t as simple as checking a box. Many buildings claim to allow pets, but once you dig into the rules, you’ll find restrictions on size, breed, or even how many you can have. That’s where I come in.

I’m Sheldon Coxford, a Vancouver-based realtor who’s helped over 100 buyers and sellers navigate the city’s real estate market with confidence. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, young professional, couple, or growing family, I’ll help you find a home that fits your life — and welcomes every member of your household, pets included.

A Home That Works for You (And Your Pets — Now or Later)

Many of my clients aren’t just thinking about where they’ll live today — they’re planning for the future. Maybe you’re buying your first condo and want the flexibility to adopt a pet later on. Or maybe you’re looking for more space for a dog, a partner, or just a little extra breathing room. Whatever your situation, I’ll make sure you find a home that works for you, both now and down the road.

Let’s Find Your Perfect Home

If you’re thinking about buying in Vancouver and want a realtor who knows the market inside and out — plus understands the importance of finding a truly pet-friendly space — let’s chat.

📞 Call or text me, Sheldon Coxford, at 778.835.5621, or fill out my contact form. Whether you need a bigger yard, a dog-friendly condo, or just a home that makes sense for your next chapter, I’ll help you get there.

Vancouver & Burnaby Homeowners: Unlock Your Property’s Hidden Potential

Recent zoning changes in Vancouver and Burnaby have opened new doors for homeowners. The introduction of Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing (SSMUH) zoning means you can now develop up to six units on your property or sell to developers eager to invest. This is a prime opportunity to maximize your property’s value, whether you’re considering downsizing, generating rental income, or creating space for family.

Why Choose Me to Navigate This Opportunity?

With over a decade of experience in Vancouver’s real estate market, I specialize in helping homeowners capitalize on zoning changes like Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing. But don’t just take my word for it—here’s what some of my clients have said:    

•“Sheldon is a very knowledgeable, patient, and reliable realtor. He was (and still is!) always available to answer all of our questions.”

•“Sheldon was a very professional and confident agent to work with. He was flexible with his time and always made sure to accommodate our schedule.”

These testimonials reflect my commitment to personalized, client-focused service. Every homeowner’s situation is unique, and I take a laid-back, pressure-free approach to help you make the best decision for your future.

How I Can Assist You

✔ Free Property Evaluation – I’ll assess your home’s value and its potential under the new zoning laws.

✔ Expert Guidance – Whether you want to sell or develop, I’ll provide a clear roadmap for your next steps.

✔ Market Insights – I’ll help you understand what’s happening in the market so you can maximize your investment.

Let’s Explore Your Options Together

Many homeowners aren’t aware of their property’s full potential—and that’s where I come in. Whether you want to sell, develop, or simply understand your options, I’m here to help.

📞 Call or text me at 778-835-5621, Sheldon Coxford

💻 Visit SheldonHomes.ca to get your free lot evaluation

Don’t wait—these changes are creating opportunities now! Let’s chat and find the best strategy for your property.

1. Shopping Local on West 4th

The lights are up, the shops are open and it's time to buy your gifts. Head down to West 4th, my favorite place to shop in Vancouver and buy local. Whether it's socks from The Boardroom or art prints from The Nooks there is something for everyone. 

Head down and take a picture on Candy-Cane lane (Burrard and 4th) and in front of the amazing mural there. It's hard not to feel festive on 4th.

     2. Ice Skating at Robson

Although not technically in Kitsilano. A worthy mention has to go to the Ice Skating Rink at Robson. Free when you bring your own skates or $4 for rentals, this is a super affordable way to spend the day. Open from December 1st to Christmas Day, the rink has entertainment planned for the whole festive season. With brass bands, sax players and DJs, go and have some holiday fun!

Check out the website for opening times.

   3, Christmas Tree from Mario!

For much of the year, the lot at West Eighth Avenue and Arbutus Street sits empty. But that all changes mid-November, when the Camillo family moves in with their Christmas tree lot. With trees, wreaths and Christmas lights, head down to W 8th and Arbutus for your festive fir. 

The lot was started by Mario’s uncle in 1959 during a slow month for Camillo's construction company. 61 years later and the family is still going strong, spreading Christmas cheer throughout Kits. Even if you have got your tree, it’s worth a visit to this family-run spot.

   4. Mulled Wine and a Bratwurst at Granville

Struggling to get into the festive mood? A trip to Granville Island will change that. Lights, music and mulled wine can be found on arrival. Head to the Kaisereck Delicatessen for perogies, beer, mulled wine and bratwurst. Great food, a great heated patio and Xmas tunes. What more could you want?

   5. A Must See: Van Dusen Festival of Lights

Again, not IN Kits, but worth the trip over. The Van Dusen Festival of Lights is a breathtaking show of more than one million lights decorating 15 acres of the gardens. Running until January 3rd, this should be top of your to-do list over the holiday period. 

 Be sure to stop by the Scottish Shelter to light a candle and donate to Make-A-Wish.

Your Kitsilano Agent

Looking to buy, sell or rent in Kitsilano? I am a local, I live here myself and am ingrained in Kits culture. Reach out if you need any advice at all. Email me here. 

Keep yourself busy this Fall with some of my favorite activities in Kits. The nights are getting longer, but that shouldn't keep us indoors. There's plenty going on in Kitsilano at this time of year! 

Anything to add? I want to know - send me an email here.

Leafy Walks

Did you know that Kitsilano has 17 parks?! Check them out this fall. You’d be surprised how empty they all are now that there’s been some rain. Fallen leaves, crisp air - you are bound to be revived. 

My favourite place to walk is Pacific Spirit. With over 55km of trails, forests, creeks, beaches, cliffs and bog, no walk is the same. Most trails are dog friendly, and it’s a great place to let your pup run. Yukon loves it! 

To chill, Margaret Pigott is my spot. With unspoilt views of the North Shore, it's easy to feel grateful for where we live.  

Farmers Market

Don’t miss out on Kits Farmers Market. Trust me!  With over 50 farms and producers, food and coffee trucks, it’s the place to be for local fresh food. 

The market is also dog friendly. (Are you starting to see a theme here?)

Kitsilano Farmers Market takes place each Sunday, 9:30am-2:30pm from May 2-Oct 31 at 10th Ave. & Larch St.

Space Centre

The only un-dog friendly thing on this list. But, it’s worth it. Spend your Friday night star-gazing at the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre. Each week they host a Planetarium Star Theatre show - which is awesome. Visit the observatory and look for new stars. It is great fun for the whole family! 

Southlands Pumpkin Patch

Although technically not in Kits. What is fall without pumpkin picking? This is our closest patch and it’s worth the drive. 20 minutes from Kits, Southlands Heritage Farm is an oasis in the city. Get picking!

Halloween Decoration Spotting

If you didn’t know already, some blocks in Kitsilano go all out for Halloween! I am talking; full-sized graveyards, three-stories of decorations and COVID-safe candy slides. The best street last year had to be Trafalgar. Almost every house was decked out.

Have you spotted any spooky houses? Let me know!