5 Honest Things You Need to Consider Before Relocating

If you’ve been thinking about moving to Surrey, you’re definitely not alone. Over the past several years, Surrey has become one of the fastest-growing cities in Canada — attracting families, first-time buyers, investors, entrepreneurs, and people looking for more space and affordability compared to Vancouver.

But let’s be honest: moving to Surrey isn’t perfect for everyone.

Like every city, Surrey has incredible advantages… and a few realities you absolutely need to understand before making the move. If you’re planning to relocate, here are 5 thoughtful and truthful things you should consider before calling Surrey home.

1. Surrey Is Growing FAST — And That’s Both Good and Bad

One of the biggest reasons people move to Surrey is opportunity.

The city is expanding rapidly with:

• New condo developments

• Large townhouse communities

• Expanding transit

• New schools

• Shopping centres

• Business growth

• Healthcare and educational investments

The upcoming SkyTrain expansion is expected to continue transforming areas like Fleetwood and Clayton into major growth hubs.

The Good:

Growth often means:

• Better property appreciation

• New infrastructure

• More amenities

• More job opportunities

• Better long-term investment potential

The Bad:

Rapid growth also creates challenges:

• More traffic congestion

• Construction everywhere

• Increased density

• Pressure on schools and roads

• Rising home prices

Some neighborhoods feel like they’re changing almost overnight.

If you prefer quiet, slow-paced suburban living, certain parts of Surrey may feel busier than expected in the next 5–10 years.

2. Not Every Area of Surrey Feels the Same

This is probably the MOST important thing buyers overlook.

Surrey is massive.

Living in South Surrey feels completely different from living in Newton, Guildford, Fleetwood, Cloverdale, or Whalley/City Centre.

Each neighborhood has:

• Different price points

• Different school quality

• Different traffic patterns

• Different community feel

• Different demographics

• Different investment potential

For example:

• South Surrey is often known for a quieter, more upscale suburban lifestyle.

• Cloverdale has a strong family-oriented and community feel.

• Fleetwood is attracting major attention because of the future SkyTrain.

• Surrey City Centre is becoming more urban and condo-focused.

Honest Advice:

Do not choose Surrey based only on price.

Visit neighborhoods during:

• Morning rush hour

• Evenings

• Weekends

• Late at night if possible

A neighborhood can feel completely different depending on the time of day.

3. Traffic and Commuting Can Be Tough

This is one of the biggest realities people underestimate.

If you work in Vancouver, Burnaby, or Richmond, commuting from Surrey can become exhausting depending on:

• Time of day

• Bridge traffic

• Highway congestion

• Weather

• Transit access

The Good:

Surrey is improving transit significantly.
The SkyTrain expansion should help long term.

The Challenge:

Right now, some commutes can easily become:

• 60–90 minutes each way

• Longer during accidents or bad weather

If you work remotely, this may not matter much.

But if you commute daily, your lifestyle and stress levels can be heavily affected.

When moving to Surrey, you’re not just buying a home — you’re buying a commute and a lifestyle.

4. Surrey Is More Affordable Than Vancouver… But It’s Not “Cheap” Anymore

Years ago, Surrey was considered the “affordable alternative.”

Today?
Not exactly.

Yes, Surrey is generally more affordable than Vancouver’s west side or certain parts of Burnaby, but prices have increased dramatically over the years.

The Reality:

You still need to budget carefully for:

• Property taxes

• Insurance

• Strata fees

• Utilities

• Commuting costs

• Closing costs

• Maintenance

Townhomes and detached homes in desirable neighborhoods can still be very competitive.

The Positive:

Compared to Vancouver, many buyers still feel they get:

• More square footage

• Newer homes

• Better layouts

• More parking

• Family-friendly communities

For many families, Surrey offers better value — but buyers should still enter the market with realistic expectations.

5. Surrey Has Incredible Diversity and Community

This is honestly one of Surrey’s biggest strengths.

Surrey is one of the most culturally diverse cities in Canada, and that diversity creates:

• Amazing food

• Strong family communities

• Cultural events

• Entrepreneurial energy

• Welcoming neighborhoods

• Faith-based and multicultural communities

You’ll find people from all over the world building businesses, raising families, and creating community here.

But Here’s the Honest Part:

Because Surrey is growing so quickly, some areas are still catching up in terms of:

• Infrastructure

• Road planning

• School capacity

• Healthcare access

Some residents love the energy and diversity.
Others may prefer smaller or quieter municipalities.

It really depends on your lifestyle priorities.

Final Thoughts: Is Surrey BC a Good Place to Live?

For many people, yes — absolutely.

Surrey offers:

• Strong long-term growth potential

• Family-oriented neighborhoods

• Cultural diversity

• Better housing value compared to Vancouver

• Expanding transit and infrastructure

• Excellent opportunities for homeowners and investors

But Surrey is not perfect.

It’s important to move here with realistic expectations, understand the neighborhood differences, and think carefully about your daily lifestyle — not just the price of the home.

The truth is:
The “right” city is not just about affordability.
It’s about finding the lifestyle, community, and future that fits your goals.

Thinking About Moving to Surrey BC?

Before you buy, make sure you:
✔ Research neighborhoods carefully
✔ Understand commute times
✔ Explore future development plans
✔ Review school catchments
✔ Work with a local real estate professional who truly understands Surrey’s evolving market

A well-informed move is always a smarter move.

5 Important Things to Consider When Buying an Assignment of Contract in British Columbia

Buying an assignment of contract in British Columbia can be one of the most exciting opportunities in real estate — especially in competitive markets where pre-construction homes and condos are in high demand. But while assignment sales can offer incredible value, flexibility, and investment potential, they also come with unique risks and legal complexities that buyers must understand before signing on the dotted line.

Whether you are a first-time buyer, investor, or someone looking to secure a property before completion, understanding how assignment contracts work in BC is critical.

In this guide, we’ll break down the 5 most important things to consider when buying an assignment of contract in British Columbia.

What Is an Assignment of Contract?

An assignment sale happens when the original buyer of a pre-sale property (the “assignor”) sells their contractual rights to another buyer (the “assignee”) before the property officially completes.

Instead of purchasing directly from the developer, you are purchasing the rights and obligations of the original purchase contract.

Assignment sales are common in markets such as Vancouver, Surrey, Burnaby, and Coquitlam where pre-construction developments are extremely popular.

1. Understand the Assignment Fee Structure

One of the biggest surprises for many buyers is the additional costs associated with assignment sales.

In many cases, developers charge assignment fees that can range anywhere from a few thousand dollars to significantly higher amounts depending on the project and contract terms.

You also need to understand:

• Who pays the assignment fee
• Whether GST applies
• Legal fees involved
• Potential commission structures
• Deposit reimbursement requirements

Many assignment contracts require the assignee to reimburse the original buyer for deposits already paid to the developer.

For example:

• Original deposit paid by seller: $80,000
• Assignment profit: $50,000
• Total upfront amount buyer may need: $130,000 plus closing costs

Understanding the financial structure beforehand can help avoid major surprises later.

2. Review the Original Contract Carefully

This is one of the most important steps when buying an assignment property in BC.

You are not just buying a home — you are inheriting the original contract terms negotiated between the developer and the first buyer.

Important clauses to review include:

• Completion date
• Estimated occupancy date
• Deposit structure
• Developer disclosure statements
• Restrictions on renting
• Financing requirements
• Potential material changes
• Right to rescind clauses
• Assignment restrictions

Some developers prohibit certain assignment conditions or require approval before an assignment can proceed.

A knowledgeable real estate lawyer and experienced REALTOR® are essential when reviewing assignment contracts in British Columbia.

3. Know the GST Implications

GST on assignment sales in British Columbia can become complicated very quickly.

Many buyers incorrectly assume GST is included in the purchase price when sometimes it may not be.

You need clarity on:

• Is GST included?
• Is GST payable on the assignment profit?
• Will the property qualify for GST rebates?
• Is the seller considered an investor?
• Could additional taxes apply?

This is especially important for investors purchasing pre-sale condos or assignment properties in fast-growing markets like Langley and Richmond.

Consulting with an accountant familiar with BC assignment sales is highly recommended.

4. Financing Can Be More Difficult

Financing an assignment property is not always as straightforward as financing a traditional resale property.

Some lenders have stricter policies regarding assignment sales because:

• The property has not completed yet
• Market conditions may change before completion
• Appraisals can fluctuate
• Developer timelines can shift

Before making an offer, buyers should:

• Get pre-approved with a lender familiar with assignment sales
• Confirm deposit requirements
• Understand occupancy fees
• Review closing timelines
• Ensure financing is available upon completion

Working with an experienced mortgage broker can make a massive difference during the assignment process.

5. Research the Developer and the Project

When buying an assignment, you are also indirectly buying into the reputation of the developer.

Not all developers are equal.

Research:

• Developer track record
• Construction quality
• Previous projects
• Completion history
• Online reviews
• Warranty coverage
• Financial stability

A beautiful marketing brochure does not always guarantee a successful project.

In markets across Vancouver and the Lower Mainland, choosing a reputable developer can significantly reduce risk and improve long-term value.

Bonus Tip: Work With a REALTOR® Experienced in Assignment Sales

Assignment transactions are highly specialized.

An experienced REALTOR® can help you:

• Analyze market value
• Understand risks
• Negotiate favorable terms
• Coordinate with lawyers and mortgage brokers
• Review disclosure statements
• Navigate developer requirements

Having a knowledgeable professional on your side can protect your investment and reduce costly mistakes.

Final Thoughts on Buying an Assignment of Contract in British Columbia

Assignment sales can create incredible opportunities for buyers looking to enter the market, secure pre-construction pricing, or build long-term wealth through real estate investing.

However, assignment contracts are more complex than traditional real estate transactions.

Before purchasing an assignment property in British Columbia, make sure you fully understand:

✅ Legal obligations
✅ Financial requirements
✅ GST implications
✅ Financing challenges
✅ Developer reputation

The more informed you are, the more confident and successful your real estate purchase will be.

Looking to Buy or Sell an Assignment Property in BC?

The Riquelme Real Estate Group specializes in residential real estate, pre-sales, assignment sales, and investment properties throughout the Lower Mainland.

If you are considering buying or selling an assignment contract in Vancouver or surrounding areas, professional guidance can make all the difference.

604-505-3177
Riquelme Real Estate Group

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