People are falling in love with White Rock, and for good reason! This seaside community is the ideal setting for people of all ages in the Lower Mainland who crave a quieter, slower pace, but still prefer or require easy access to Vancouver.
The population of White Rock is approximately 20,000, giving it all of the charm of a small town, yet its proximity to Vancouver and the United States border has made it a trendy, desirable place to live. In fact, according to the Globe and Mail, which reported that Canadian businessman Kevin O’Leary once indicated White Rock is the next big thing in British Columbia’s real estate market, the small city has gained much attention from investors, both foreign and domestic.
Location
White Rock is a coastal community 45 kilometres (30 miles) south of Vancouver, making it just a one-hour commute from the city, depending on traffic flow. White Rock is also just a two-hour drive north of Seattle and is bordered by Surrey on three sides, making it an accessible location for commuters and day-trippers from all over the Lower Mainland.
Attractions
Locals and tourists alike appreciate White Rock for its beaches, boutiques, fine dining options and local art galleries. White Rock also hosts three major festivals: the Waterfront Concert Series, the Spirit of the Sea Festival, and the international Tour de White Rock.
But perhaps the area’s biggest draw is its historic pier that stretches nearly half a kilometer into the sea, as well as its promenade, which covers much of the beach. Along with amazing sunsets, visitors and locals also get the stunning views of Mount Baker and the San Juan Islands in Washington that this prime location offers.
Amenities
For its quaint size, White Rock offers plenty of amenities, including the Promenade and Centennial Park that has an ice arena, curling rink and ravine trails, and the Kent Street Activity Centre for adults 55+. There are also two primary schools here, and in association with neighbouring South Surrey, there are four secondary schools to choose from. Public transportation is easily accessible, and there are tons of shops within the city center, as well as the Peace Arch Hospital.
Weather
No one really knows why, but the weather of White Rock is exceptionally mild, with average summer temperatures of around 22°C (72°F) and average winter temperatures of around 5°C (42°F). White Rock also gets to claim the lowest average annual rainfall levels of the Lower Mainland, a definite plus all by itself!
Homes
Because of its location, ideal weather patterns, and all of the amenities and beauty the city of White Rock offers, there has been a lot of interest in this area when it comes to buying and selling homes, particularly in the condo market, as real estate development is taking place in White Rock at an alarming pace right now.
“In August 2015, we saw apartment sales pick up specifically in White Rock, Langley and North Surrey,” said Jorda Maisey, president of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board in a recent market report.
If you’re considering a move to White Rock, or are looking to list your White Rock home to take advantage of the hot market, please give the Khanh Vo Team a call to find out how we can help you realize your real estate goals.