Squamish Neighbourhoods
As Canadians, we're fortunate to have liveable cities, neat and attractive subdivisions, and neighbourhoods that are ideal places to live, work and play. When it comes to finding the right community for you, it's not so much a matter of finding a good community as picking the best of many. If you are moving to Squamish, British Columbia, I can give you a wealth of knowledge about the community and help you choose the neighbourhood that is best suited to you and your family.
Below is a comprehensive list of the various neighbourhoods.
Garibaldi Highlands
Sandwiched between Mamquam Road and Skyline Drive at a high elevation, this area contains higher-end homes; most have views of either the ocean, rivers and/or the surrounding mountains. It is also close to the new Quest University.
Developments in the area include:
- Thunderbird Creek
- University Heights
- Seasonview
Garibaldi Estates
Located north of the Mamquam Bridge, this area is comprised of flat level lands (some with ½ acre - 1 acre lots), is close to shopping, movie theatre, schools, Highway 99, 2 golf courses, Royal LePage and Black Tusk Realty.
Developments in the area include:
- Garibaldi Springs
- Alpenlofts
- Galleries
- Rivers Walk
- The Symphony
- Highland Glen
- The Spectacle
- Virescence
Brackendale
Located north of Garibaldi Estates, west of the highway, this area has mainly flat level lands and is very very popular with mixed housing, close proximity to the Squamish river and winter home of the hundreds of bald headed eagles.
Developments in the area include:
- Emerald Estates
- Cottonwoods
- The Paddocks
- Bracken Arm Estates
- Eagleview
Upper Squamish and Paradise Valley
Just a 15-20 minute drive north of Brackendale is a rural area with homes on large acreages. The valley is part of the Squamish-Lilloet Regional District with septic and well systems.
Northyards and Dentville
Located along the southern section of Government Road, (the old highway). this area is centrall located within Squamish. It is close to the Brennan Park Recreation Centre and a high density of townhomes and new developments.
Developments in the area include:
- The Elements
- Edgewater
- Amblepath
- Arbourwoods
- Mountain Mews
- Mountain View Manor
- Maple Tree Court
Industrial Park
Located west of Hwy 99 and just north of Downtown Squamish this area has flat terrain and is comprised of level properties for light industrial and commercial use. It is currently the home of 3 new businesses, Walmart, Home Depot and Rona.
Loggers Lane
Centrally located east of Hwy 99 en route to the community recreation centre, police station, and the new Suamish Adventure Centre, this area boasts rural homes on acreages while still within minutes off all amenities.
Downtown Squamish
Located west of Highway 99, with commercial, retail and professional businesses.
Many new condominiums and townhome projects. Close to waterfront access, estuary and Squamish Terminals.
Developments in the area include:
- Squamish Pointe
- Artisan
- Skye/Soleil
- Eaglewind/Rockcliff
- Squamish Waterfront
- Marina Estates
Hospital Hill
Located close to Squamish General Hospital and Smoke Bluffs, this area is situated on a rock cliff overlooking Downtown Squamish and has many unique detached homes often with views of The Stawamus Chief and surrounding mountains and ocean.
Valleycliffe
Located east of highway 99 and just south of downtown Squamish this largely flat, level area sits 'under the watchful eye of the Chief'. It is comprised of mostly detached homes with easy access to adventurous walking or mountain biking trails.
Developments in the area include:
- The Plateau
- Raven's Plateau
More Information
Here are just some of the things relating to your exploration of the various Squamish neighbourhoods that you may want to consider.Environment
Ask me about any known environmental issues in the area. Check with neighbours and the local media about air, water, and soil quality. Environmental issues can be detrimental to your health and to property values.
Appearance
Explore the neighbourhood keeping an eye open for signs of neglect, such as overgrown lawns, tired and worn houses, and litter in yards and alleys. No matter how diligent you are at keeping your property in top shape, a run-down neighbourhood will drive your property value down.
Crime Rate
Check with the local police department to find out if the home you are considering is in a safe neighbourhood. Police may be able to provide statistics regarding break-ins and other crimes.
Schools
If you have children, education is one of the most important considerations in finding a new home. Are there schools within walking distance or will your children have to take the bus? How do the local schools compare to other schools in the area? If your children need them, are there religious or special training educational facilities nearby?
Talking to neighbours with school-aged children can be helpful. In some areas school boards can provide important information to help you determine the quality of schooling in a particular neighbourhood or community.
Transportation
Convenient public transportation, good access roads, and major highways nearby can mean the difference between a pleasurable and not-so-pleasurable commute to work.
Amenities
Take a look around for all the amenities that you will need: shops, grocery stores, dry cleaners, restaurants, medical and dental offices, parks, and recreational facilities. Having a vibrant community with all the modern conveniences can make life a lot easier.
Property values
Property values are a pretty good indicator of how well a community is perceived. I can tell you how property values have changed over the past few years and how they compare to equivalent communities in nearby areas.
Utilities and Taxes
Avoid unpleasant surprises by finding out about municipal taxes and utility costs before you decide to purchase. Fees for water, electricity, cable TV, phone, and gas vary greatly by region.
Noise and nuisances
First impressions are not necessarily the most accurate impressions. It is a good idea to come back to the neighbourhood at different times of day and different days of the week. Listen for traffic noise, barking dogs, low-flying airplanes, and any other noises that could indicate problems.
