Over the past few years, a significant proportion of the increasing value of commercial real estate in Vancouver has been attributed to declining capitalization rates. This so-called “cap-rate compression” has been evidenced by seemingly perpetual price appreciation in Vancouver throughout the past several years, with only a small blip in the markets in late 2008 and early 2009. Since that time, cap rates have followed the march of the bond market.

When will we witness the end of declining capitalization rates? Logic would dictate that this trend cannot be sustained; however, with continued low bond yields, debt financing can continue to be characterized as ‘cheap’, and many investors will continue to be attracted to Vancouver’s overall low-risk profile.

Yields on 5-year bonds are forecast to increase approximately 50 basis points by the end of 2013. This may have an impact on lower-tier properties and those in secondary markets, where average yields may increase by as much as 50-100 BPS. On the other hand, with continued global economic uncertainty, Vancouver may benefit from sustained low interest rates and a ‘safe’ outlook, particularly in core areas where there remains high barriers to new supply.

Bosa Development has purchased Sperling Plaza, a 4-storey office complex located near Highway 1 and Canada Way in Burnaby. The 130,000 sq ft complex is located on a 3.3 acre site. The purchase price was $33,300,000.

David Taylor and Simon Lim of Colliers are pleased to present for sale 2116 West 41st Avenue, a 2-storey retail and apartment building located in the heart of Kerrisdale.

Key Features

• High-exposure retail and apartment property in the heart of Kerrisdale
• Stable, fully leased income producing property in affluent neighbourhood
• Opportunity to generate income and live and/or work in the building
• Six apartment units over two retail units
• Additional residual density creates renovation potential
• Asking price: $7,688,000

Contact us for further information, including a brochure.

238 West Broadway – An eight storey, 61 unit mixed use development was recently approved by the Development Permit Board.  The project will be utilizing a density transfer from a donor site (163 West Hastings Street – the Flack Block) which will give the project a total FSR of 3.25.

1545 West 8th Avenue – An eight storey, 18 unit development with two levels of underground parking was recently approved by the Development Permit Board.  The project, by Kenstone Properties, will be 23 metres in height and will have a 3.0 FSR.