Great Blue Heron Nature Reserve

Great Blue Heron Nature Reserve

One of our favourite stops whenever we have out of town visitors is the Great Blue Heron Nature Reserve , a 130-hectare site (325 acre) located on the un-dyked floodplain of the Vedder River.  Managed by the Great Blue Heron Nature Reserve Society, the site is known for the breeding colony of Great Blue Herons as well as a wide variety of wildlife and vegetation.

For directions and information on all there is to see and do at this wonderful Chilliwack attraction visit their website here.

Harrison Hot Springs

Oh Harrison how I love it so, rain or shine I am drawn to its staggering beauty. The 60km lake that stretches from Harrison to the Lillooet River is fed by ice and snow melt and is over 800 feet deep in places.  I think my heart was lost to Harrison the very first time we visited, back in May of 2008. We were still only visitors then but were blown away by the peace and serenity of the lake, the majestic beauty of the mountains and the funky little town itself.  At that time there was a cordoned off section that housed the amazing World Championship Sand Sculptures. Having never seen much more than my children’s ‘sand sculptures’ before, the sight of these amazing creations was one not to be missed.  Dragons, princesses, fairytales scenes and abstract designs all from deep within the sculptor’s talented minds, adorned the shoreline.

Those first memories of Harrison stayed with us, so much so it was the first place we visited once we landed in Canada. The wind was fierce coming off the lake that January day but the sky was clear and the sun shone.  My eyes are always drawn to the magnificent mountain backdrop and I’m always enthralled by the subtle changes each month or season brings. The children didn’t seem too worried about the cold wind as they explored the lakes shoreline. Whereas hubby and I snuggled against the wind and just marvelled at the scenery, wishing we had brought a flask of hot tea with us!

I have now lost count of the times we have returned to Harrison, always, always being drawn back to the beautiful scenery. It was where we took puppy for his first ever day out and learned the hard way that puppies and sand are not always a great combination. We’ve had ‘date nights’ there where we watched the sun set behind the mountains after having a gorgeous sushi dinner nearby. We loved watching the Dragon Boat Festival with all of us vowing to join a team and be back next year! Harrison was also where we decided we wanted to end our first ever Canada Day and we were not disappointed.  To see the fireworks lighting up the skyline with the by now, shadowy mysterious mountains as a backdrop was well worth the rush over (we’d already been to Chilliwack Heritage Park and Cultus Lake that day!!!).

I also couldn’t wait to share Harrison with my father on his first trip to the Fraser Valley. He loved it so much he arranged for us to take a boat trip on the lake…. and I thought it was beautiful from the shoreline! Being out on the lake itself was even more breathtaking.  When we hired the boat we’d been told about Rainbow Falls. A vision to behold from the lake but to see it in its full glory you need to take the short walk from the boat launch. Unfortunately for us we were not the only ones looking to experience the falls beauty that day as there was no room on the boat launch for us. But we did get plenty of opportunity to explore the lake, marvel at its sheer size and majesty and I’m ashamed to say we all became a little envious of anyone lucky enough to live on the lakeshore.

As you can tell Harrison has a very special place in our hearts and we will still return time and again as there is still so much we have yet to do.  We still want to try kayaking and windsurfing, the male members of the family talk about parasailing though I’m not so sure and we haven’t even had a soak in the Hot Springs yet.  All this beauty and fun just a stone’s throw away from home, something for everyone, young and the not so young. Harrison is easy to find, take the Trans Canada Highway #1 on the south side of the Fraser River and take the Agassiz – Harrison turn-off just past Chilliwack or take The Lougheed Highway – Highway #7 on the north side of the Fraser River and just past the Hemlock Valley turn off watch the signs for Harrison Hot Springs.

Before You Move to Chilliwack…

Thinking about moving to Chilliwack? Be sure to check out the following first:

• Find out as much as you can about each area or neighbourhood you’re interested in – chat with people in those areas (Chilliwack neighbourhoods)
• Pick up all of the local newspapers. (Chilliwack Progress, Chilliwack Times). Subscribe to them or read them online before you move to get a feel for Chilliwack or Sardis or whichever area you’re considering
• Contact a  Chilliwack Real Estate office or Chilliwack Realtors to find out about the local housing market.
• Find a good moving checklist
• Explore local transportation, grocery stores, schools, city & community services, churches, clubs

Moving to Chilliwack: First Time Home Buyers in Chilliwack

Moving to Chilliwack: First-time Buyers in Chilliwack

If you are thinking of moving to Chilliwack and getting into home ownership for the first time, you have come to the right place!  Working with first time buyers is favorite way for Chilliwack Realtors to provide professional real estate service. If you’ve ever watched the TV show, Property Virgins, you know that you are in for an emotional experience as you look for your first home in Chilliwack. Everything about the process is new and personal service is more valuable than ever. Before you move to Chilliwack, find the best Chilliwack real estate agent who can guide you through all the ups and downs that come with searching for and discovering your first Chilliwack real estate purchase.

The process begins with a buyer meeting, face-to-face whenever possible. Here you will go through a step-by-step, ‘What to Expect’ guide, and a complete first-time buyer package that explains everything from mortgage financing, first-time buyer benefits from the government, all the legal fees, home insurance information, and contracts, just as a start. Don’t worry though as your Chilliwack Realtor will be with you the whole way.

Chilliwack is a great place to purchase your first home. Our housing prices are still within reach for the first-time home buyer. The community is growing, the amenities are growing and we are only a short drive away from work for commuters.

Now is also the perfect opportunity to be a first-time buyer! Interest rates are so low, prices have dropped (in some cases dramatically), and it truly is a buyer’s market. That means that the buyers are in the driver’s seat. As well, we will vigorously negotiate on your behalf to make sure that you get the home that you have been dreaming of that fits your budget.

Real estate values over time will increase in Chilliwack (and elsewhere). A survey we recently saw stated that an average homeowner has 46 times the personal net worth of the average renter! That it certainly one other good reason to consider buying a home this year!

Moving to Chilliwack: Employee Relocation for your Business

Are you thinking of moving your business headquarters to Chilliwack? If you are, you are one of many companies that  have investigated and chosen Chilliwack as a prime location for their business. When you move your business, you move your employees. Local Realtors in Chiliwack can help with that!

Moving to Chilliwack: Moving Checklists

Are you thinking about moving to Chilliwack?

Moving can be a hectic time, but this list can help you stay organized.

Courtesy of Kelly Lerigny & Anita Lloyd
Your  SoldonChilliwack Team
Re/Max Nyda Realty Ltd  604-858-7179

Moving Checklist

One month before your move        Date____________________

__ Clean out your closets, basement and garage. Donate unused items to your favorite charity or have a garage sale to help pay for some of your move.

__ (Can’t decide whether to sell it or move it? Consider how much you could sell it for versus what it will cost to ship it.)

__ Get packing supplies; tape, boxes, tissue paper, bubble wrap, markers.

__ If this is a big move, start packing items of no use prior to your move. Pack up things like photo albums, books, and seasonal decorations.

__ If you’re packing items that will go in storage, make itemized lists of each box and its contents.

__ Start a log of moving expenses and keep all your move-related receipts. Some items may be tax deductible.

__ Find a reputable mover. If you’re hiring professional movers get written estimates from at least two moving companies; include their written commitment of pickup and delivery dates. Ask for and check references. Check the limits of insurance they offer and whether or not it covers replacement costs. Purchase additional insurance if you need it.

__ Arrange to transfer your household insurance to your new home.

__ Advise regular tradespeople (gardener, housecleaner, pool service) if you’re moving out of their service area. Look into services for new home.

Two weeks before your move      Date___________________

__ Arrange for disconnection or transfer of your BC Hydro service.

__ Arrange for disconnection or transfer of other utilities (gas, cable, phone, ISP, security company). Get new phone number.

__ Contact the post office to have your mail forwarded.

__ Arrange to close or transfer your bank accounts. Order cheques with your new address & phone number.

__ Stop or transfer newspaper and other home deliveries.

__ Advise friends, family and professionals of your new address and phone number. (Don’t forget your doctor, dentist and other medical professionals, schools, library, accountant, financial advisor, credit card companies, Canada Customs & Revenue (Revenue Canada), Motor Vehicle Branch, frequent flyer plans, your employer, medical plan, magazine and other subscriptions.)

One week before your move     Date____________________

__ Clean your home or arrange for a cleaning service.

__ Confirm delivery address, phone number and delivery date with the movers.

__ Clean out and defrost the freezer.

__ If you’re moving to another city, pick up dry cleaning, prescriptions, photos or anything else left outside your home.

__ Clean out school or gym lockers.

__ Return library books.

__  Double check sales contract to make sure you leave behind all items included before packing (all fixtures like curtain rods, blinds, etc. must stay with house)

A few days before your move        Date____________________

__ Complete packing of all household goods for the move. Make sure boxes are clearly marked with the room they will go in, as well as “Fragile” if necessary.

__ Place important documents in a safe box that you will carry. Include home purchase/sale papers, will, financial records, passports, birth certificates. Mark “Do Not Move” on the box; move this box yourself.

__ Prepare an “open first” box with towels, bedding, basic kitchen and bathroom supplies, toys or games for your children, tools (hammer, screwdriver) to set up furniture.

__ Label all keys for new occupants

__ Place all appliance manuals & warrantees, etc in one place for the new occupants.

Move day!          Date___________________

__ Keep phone connected or have a cell phone in case you need to contact your movers, Realtors, etc.

__ Carefully supervise the move. Make sure your instructions are understood, and that boxes are delivered to the right rooms.

__ Check all the rooms and closets to make sure you haven’t left anything behind.

__ Turn down the thermostat.

__ Lock up and leave labelled keys, garage door openers, etc. with the Realtor.

__ Arrive at your new home before the movers. Show the movers where to put boxes and furniture.

__ Check that you’ve been given keys to every lock in your new home.

__ Carefully review the movers’ bill of lading before signing. Check for damaged items.

__ At your new home, make sure the utilities are on and working properly.

__ Unpack your “open first” box. Set up your bed; unpack the kitchen and bathroom to help you feel at home.

__ Relax, order in dinner, and take a long hot bath.

After your move

__ Unpack, then donate or flatten and recycle boxes.

__ Change the address on your driver’s license and car insurance.

__ Plan your housewarming party!

Good luck with your plans to move to Chilliwack!

Wiltshire / Worthington

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• Convenient to Sardis shopping
• Family and senior friendly subdivisions
• Edenbank Seniors Complex

Located south of Spruce Drive on the west side of Vedder Road, and with streets branching from the Wiltshire corridor, this residential area is home to many empty nesters and active retirees.

Attracting this population is the predominance of larger detached rancher style homes ideal for those wanting one-level living combined with yards large enough for gardening and outdoor enjoyment. A quiet neighbourhood of quality homes it is also attractive to families wanting the convenience of easy access to schools and the Sardis shopping areas.

Some larger executive homes on over-sized lots are located along  Worthington and Newby Dr. as well as a mix of older and newer custom executive homes on Pioneer, Gleneden and Eden Drives.

This area is also home to Edenbank, Chilliwack’s most unique and beautiful seniors community with its expansive gardens, walking paths, executive clubhouse and varied mix of apartments, townhouses and detached homes within the community.

Looking for houses for sale in Sardis? Click here to find local homes for sale in the Wiltshire Worthington area.

Schools

Evans Elementary School -  kindergarten to grade six
Tyson Elementary School – kindergarten to grade six
Vedder Middle School - grades 7,8,9
Sardis Secondary School – grades 10,11,12

 

 

Spruce Grove/Wells Landing

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• Convenient to Sardis shopping
• Family friendly subdivisions
• Parks and greenspace

Still convenient to the Sardis shopping corridor yet with a more residential setting, the Spruce Grove/Wells Landing area consists of a number of smaller neighbourhoods attractive to families and seniors alike.

From the larger executive homes backing Wells Creek, to the affordable family neighbourhood surrounding Circle Drive Park, the adult community of Wellsbrooke, and the newer infill townhome complexes on Sunshine Drive and Wells Road, this area offers something for everyone.

Encompassing the area west of Vedder Rd and north of Spruce Drive, residents of these neighbourhoods enjoy quick access to both urban amenities and open greenspace. Evans road forms the western border to this area and when it is completed in the summer of 2009, the Evans Rd overpass and freeway interchange will make commuting a breeze from this area and will also provide residents quick access to the downtown amenities such as the Prospera Centre, Leisure Centre and Townsend Park.

Looking for homes for sale in Sardis?  Click here to find houses for sale in the Spruce Grove Wells Landing area.

 

Schools

Evans Elementary School -  kindergarten to grade six
Vedder Middle School - grades 7,8,9
Sardis Secondary School – grades 10,11,12

Downtown East

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• Affordable older homes
• Mix of multifamily
• Easy access to services

With its mix of older homes on larger city lots, newer homes on “infill” lots and both older and newer multifamily dwellings, this area of town provides a wide range of housing options in a variety of price ranges.

Ease of access to the highway via First Avenue and the Prest Rd. interchange along with easy of access to in-town shopping, recreation and medical services make this a convenient and affordable neighbourhood choice for many families.

This area is bordered by Yale Rd to the North, Hazel St to the west , with agricultrual land to the east with the CN rail line forming its southern border.

Looking for houses for sale in downtown Chilliwack? Click here to find local homes for sale in the Chilliwack’s downtown Eastside.

Schools

Little Mountain Elementary School -  kindergarten to grade six
F.G. Leary Fine Arts Elementary -kindergarten to grade six
Chilliwack Middle School – grades 7,8,9
Chilliwack Secondary School -  grades 10,11,12

Southlands

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• Affordable detached homes
• New multifamily developments
• Chilliwack Airport

With Chillliwack’s City Hall at its centre, the Southlands area of Chilliwack is primarily a residential area flanked by commercial/retail districts along Young Rd to the west and adjacent to Chilliwack’s Regional Airport on Airport Road to the south. With homes built mostly in the 50′s and 60′s and with further development in the 80′s, these established neighbourhoods offer a variety of housing styles and prices.

Significant development has occurred in the area since 2000 and today a variety of newer townhome options are available to families, particularly along Chilliwack Central, Walters, Airport Road and Broadway.

This area is also home to several popular gated seniors’ and adult oriented complexes including Willowbrooke, Beacon Downes, Hazelwood and Country Grove.

Looking for houses for sale in the Southlands area of Chilliwack? Click here to find local homes for sale in the Chilliwack’s Southlands.

Schools

Robertson Elementary School -  kindergarten to grade six
F.G. Leary Fine Arts Elementary -kindergarten to grade six
AD Rundle Middle School – grades 7,8,9
Chilliwack Middle School – grades 7,8,9
Chilliwack Secondary School -  grades 10,11,12

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