Buying a home is one of the most exciting and largest financial steps you’ll ever take. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or upgrading to your dream acreage in the Peace Region, it’s important to understand all the costs involved. In Fort St. John’s competitive housing market, planning ahead helps you make confident, stress-free decisions.

Here’s a breakdown of the hidden costs every homebuyer in Northern BC should be prepared for:

1. Home Inspection

Before finalizing your purchase, always invest in a professional home inspection. It typically costs between $400 and $800 but can save you thousands in potential repairs. In our region’s colder climate, pay special attention to insulation, heating systems, and foundation issues.

2. Property Appraisal

If you’re getting a mortgage, your lender will likely require an appraisal to confirm the home’s value. Expect to budget around $300–$500. This step ensures you’re paying a fair price and protects your investment.

3. Legal Fees and Title Insurance

A real estate lawyer will handle the paperwork, title transfer, and mortgage registration. Legal fees in Fort St. John generally range from $1,000–$1,500. Title insurance (often recommended) adds another $200–$300 but offers protection against ownership disputes or title defects.

4. Property Transfer Tax

In British Columbia, buyers pay a Property Transfer Tax (PTT) when purchasing real estate. For most homes, it’s 1% on the first $200,000 and 2% on the remainder up to $2 million.
💡 Tip: First-time home buyers may qualify for a full or partial exemption — ask your Realtor or lawyer to confirm your eligibility.

5. Adjustments and Utility Hookups

Sellers may have prepaid property taxes or utility bills. These are adjusted at closing so each party only pays their share. New homeowners should also budget for utility connection fees, which can vary depending on location and provider.

6. Moving and Setup Costs

From hiring movers to setting up internet and garbage collection, small expenses add up quickly. Plan for $1,000–$2,000 to cover your move comfortably — especially if you’re relocating from another BC community or province.

7. Home Insurance and Maintenance

Before you get your keys, your lender will require proof of home insurance. Premiums depend on property type, location, and value — usually between $1,000–$2,000 per year.
Don’t forget to budget for ongoing maintenance like furnace servicing, snow removal, or well and septic upkeep if you’re buying rural property.

Why This Matters in the Fort St. John Market

The Peace Region’s housing market offers incredible value compared to many BC areas, but being financially prepared gives buyers an edge. Understanding the true cost of homeownership helps you act quickly and confidently when the right property comes along.

Whether you’re drawn to a family home in town or an acreage outside city limits, Brenna and her team are here to guide you through every step — from offer to keys in hand.

📞 Call/Text Brenna at 250.262.6441
Brenna Burns PREC
CENTURY 21 ENERGY REALTY
FORT ST. JOHN 📍

As fall settles over Fort St. John and the Peace Region, colourful leaves and crisp air create the perfect backdrop for selling your home. But as the season changes, so should your approach to curb appeal. Whether you’re listing your property or just want your home to shine this autumn, these simple upgrades can make a big impact — especially in Northern BC’s unique climate.

Freshen Up Your Exterior

Start with the basics: a clean, well-maintained exterior sets the tone for the entire property. Wash away dust and grime from siding, windows, and decks that may have built up over summer. Clear away fallen leaves, trim overgrown bushes, and tidy up garden beds. A freshly swept driveway and clean walkways instantly make your home look more cared for.

In Fort St. John’s cooler months, sunlight becomes limited, so a little sparkle goes a long way. Wash windows inside and out to maximize natural light, and consider updating outdoor light fixtures to brighter, warmer tones that welcome buyers — even on shorter, cloudier days.

Add Warm, Seasonal Touches

Fall is all about warmth and comfort. Use that to your advantage when staging your home’s exterior. Add seasonal planters with hardy mums or ornamental grasses that can handle cooler temperatures. A simple wreath on the front door or a few pumpkins by the entryway add charm without feeling overdone.

For acreage or rural properties in the Peace Region, think scale — clean up driveways, gate areas, and fences. Make sure signage or address markers are visible and easy to read. Buyers exploring larger properties will appreciate thoughtful details that show the home has been well maintained.

Light the Way

As daylight fades earlier in October, good lighting becomes essential. Replace any burnt-out bulbs and add pathway lighting to make walkways safe and inviting. Motion-sensor or solar lights are great for highlighting features like entryways, trees, or driveways while adding a sense of security — something Northern BC buyers value during long winter nights.

Don’t Forget Curb Appeal for Acreages

In rural areas around Fort St. John, curb appeal means more than just a tidy front yard. For acreages and farm properties, make sure driveways are graded, fences are in good repair, and outbuildings are organized and accessible. Store equipment neatly and remove clutter to highlight usable space and showcase how easy it is to maintain a larger property.

First Impressions Matter

In a market where buyers are comparing homes online before visiting in person, great curb appeal helps your property stand out from the start. A few simple updates now can help your home photograph beautifully, feel more inviting, and attract more showings — even as the temperatures drop.

Fall in Fort St. John is a beautiful time of year, and with a little effort, your home can stand out in any market. Whether you’re preparing to list now or planning for winter, thoughtful curb appeal improvements show pride of ownership — something every buyer notices.

📞 Call/Text Brenna at 250.262.6441 for expert advice on preparing your home for sale in Fort St. John and the Peace Region.

Brenna Burns PREC
CENTURY 21 ENERGY REALTY
FORT ST. JOHN 📍

As summer winds down and fall arrives in Northern BC, the Fort St. John real estate market remains active. The Peace Region continues to attract buyers looking for residential homes, acreages, and rural properties. While every market is unique, some clear trends are emerging this fall:

• Sellers Still Have an Advantage: Inventory is relatively low, meaning homes that are well-priced and properly marketed stand out.

• Buyers Are Serious: Fall buyers tend to be motivated—they want to move before winter and school routines are in full swing.

• Rural & Acreage Properties Are Popular: Families and lifestyle buyers are seeking space and privacy outside the city, making acreages highly desirable.

• Neighbourhood Choice Matters: Homes in established areas like Sunset Ridge, Panorama Ridge, Westridge Estates, or close to amenities continue to attract attention.

Tips for Sellers This Fall

• Focus on curb appeal: clean yards, tidy landscaping, and small seasonal touches make a difference.

• Highlight cozy features: fireplaces, energy-efficient heating, and move-in readiness appeal to motivated buyers.

• Stage your home effectively: simple updates or decluttering can shorten days on market.

Tips for Buyers

• Be ready to act quickly: serious buyers are active now, and competition can be strong for desirable homes.

• Explore rural or acreage properties: the Peace Region offers lifestyle options that city properties can’t match.

• Think long-term: consider proximity to work, schools, and amenities, even if buying slightly outside city limits.

Why Fort St. John’s Market Stays Strong

Unlike some southern BC markets that slow down in the fall, Fort St. John’s resource-driven economy keeps housing demand steady. Families relocating for work, energy industry projects, and lifestyle buyers all contribute to a resilient local real estate market.

Fall 2025 is a smart time to buy or sell in Fort St. John and the Peace Region. Homes are moving, buyers are motivated, and sellers with the right strategy can stand out.

📞 Call/Text Brenna at 250.262.6441 for expert advice on the Fort St. John real estate market.

Brenna Burns PREC
CENTURY 21 ENERGY REALTY
FORT ST. JOHN 📍

If you’ve been exploring real estate in Fort St. John or the Peace Region, you’ve probably noticed one trend: acreages and rural properties are in high demand. From hobby farms to hobby ranches, these properties offer something that urban homes often can’t: space, privacy, and a lifestyle closely connected to nature.

In this blog, we’ll explore why rural living in Northern BC continues to attract buyers and why acreages are such a smart choice in today’s market.

1. Space and Privacy Are Priceless

One of the biggest draws of acreages in Fort St. John is the amount of land you get. Whether you’re looking for room to raise animals, grow crops, or simply enjoy privacy from neighbours, rural properties provide a lifestyle many buyers crave.

Compared to city lots, acreages offer wide-open spaces, often with mature trees, ponds, or even small forests. For families, this means safe areas for kids to play and explore. For professionals or retirees, it’s a retreat from the hustle and bustle.

2. Opportunity for Livestock, Farming, or Hobby Ranching

Many buyers in the Peace Region are attracted to agricultural potential. Even small acreages allow for:

• Keeping horses, cattle, or chickens

• Starting small-scale farming operations

• Growing gardens or orchards

• Creating your own private outdoor recreational spaces

Northern BC’s climate and fertile soils make hobby farming or ranching feasible, while still being close enough to Fort St. John for easy access to shops, schools, and services.

3. Strong Investment Potential

Acreages and rural properties are often undervalued compared to city homes, but demand continues to rise in the Peace Region. Buyers are drawn to:

• Long-term appreciation of land values

• Flexibility in building homes, shops, or outbuildings

• Ability to subdivide larger parcels (where zoning allows)

This makes acreages an appealing option for investors or those looking to diversify their real estate portfolio in Northern BC.

4. Lifestyle and Recreation

Living on an acreage isn’t just about property size—it’s about quality of life. Peace Region acreages give you:

• Privacy and tranquility away from city noise

• Access to hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, and ATV trails

• Opportunities for gardening, bonfires, and outdoor hobbies

• Stunning views of Northern BC’s forests, lakes, and mountains

For many, this connection to nature is what makes rural living so desirable.

5. Convenient Location Near Fort St. John

Despite being rural, many acreages are just a short drive from Fort St. John. Communities like:

• Charlie Lake

• Baldonnel

• Prespatou

• Montney

…offer the perfect balance: country living with access to schools, healthcare, shopping, and employment in the Peace Region.

Whether you’re seeking space, privacy, investment potential, or a lifestyle closer to nature, acreages and rural properties in Fort St. John and the Peace Region are highly sought after—and for good reason.

If you’re ready to explore acreages in Northern BC or want guidance on finding the perfect rural property, Brenna Burns can help you navigate the local market.

📞 Call/Text Brenna at 250.262.6441 for personalized guidance on finding your Peace Region acreage today.

Brenna Burns PREC
CENTURY 21 ENERGY REALTY
FORT ST. JOHN 📍

If you’ve been thinking about selling your home in Fort St. John or the Peace Region, now might be the perfect time. While many markets across BC slow down as summer winds down, Fort St. John’s real estate market often stays steady into the fall. With motivated buyers, low housing inventory, and the changing seasons, late August through fall can be one of the best times to sell your home.

1. Buyers Want to Move Before Winter Hits

In Northern BC, timing matters. Many buyers in Fort St. John are motivated to purchase before the snow flies. Families want to be settled before the school year is in full swing, and others are aiming to move before winter roads and colder temperatures make moving day more challenging. This creates strong buyer demand in September and October.

2. Low Inventory = More Attention on Your Home

One of the biggest advantages for sellers right now is low housing inventory in Fort St. John. Fewer homes on the market means your property gets more eyes—and potentially stronger offers. Buyers who may have been waiting earlier in the year are ready to act now, especially if the right home comes along.

3. Fall Shows Off Your Home at Its Best

The fall season in Fort St. John is beautiful—trees changing colors, cozy evenings, and crisp air. Homes often show better during this time, creating that “warm and welcoming” first impression that buyers are looking for. A well-maintained yard and seasonal décor can help your property stand out even more.

4. Serious Buyers Are Still Out There

Unlike the browsing buyers of spring and summer, fall buyers in FSJ tend to be more serious. They’re often relocating for work in the energy industry, upgrading for family needs, or downsizing before winter. These buyers usually have timelines in mind and are ready to move quickly when they find the right home.

5. The Peace Region’s Economy Supports a Strong Market

From energy projects like Site C Dam to oil & gas operations, the local economy continues to bring new residents and keep demand steady. While larger BC markets might see seasonal slowdowns, Fort St. John’s unique economy and affordability mean homes continue to move year-round.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait Until Spring

Many sellers think spring is the best time to list, but waiting could mean missing out on motivated buyers right now. By listing your home in Fort St. John this fall, you’ll face less competition and connect with buyers eager to move before winter.

📞 Call/Text Brenna at 250.262.6441 for a free home evaluation today.
Brenna Burns PREC
CENTURY 21 ENERGY REALTY
FORT ST. JOHN 📍