from fourplexes to full-scale strategy — where it all began
- 4-unit conversion
- 33’ x 102’ lot with lane access
- 1916 character home
listing
description
This 2014 sale at 1749 Charles Street was a meaningful bridge between my residential and commercial careers — following several successful years as a residential agent selling homes and investment properties across Kitsilano, Grandview-Woodland, Fairview, and beyond.
The property was a beautiful 1916 character home that had been converted into four rental units. Located just off Commercial Drive, on a 33’ x 102’ lot with laneway access, it offered strong income, development flexibility, and historical charm. But what made this deal special wasn’t just the real estate — it was what it represented: a pivotal step in a career that would eventually evolve into a specialized commercial practice.
Back then, I was learning the ropes — meeting homeowners, walking properties, reading community plans, and negotiating face-to-face with buyers and sellers. Those experiences built the foundation for everything I do now: understanding land use, recognizing opportunity, and knowing how to position a property for its highest and best use.
Today, my focus is solely on Vancouver multifamily and development land. While I no longer work in the residential space, I maintain long-standing relationships with trusted residential agents who operate with the same clarity and professionalism I value.
This deal was part of the journey. From helping families sell homes like this one, to now advising landowners on complex zoning, valuation, and development strategy — every step has been part of building the focused, high-level advisory work I offer today.
investment
thesis
A rare case where the optimal strategy was retention, not redevelopment. The existing structure exceeded current form-of-development allowances and delivered strong holding income from four stratified units — all just steps from Commercial Drive.
policy
context
Located within the Grandview-Woodland Community Plan, the site was eligible for infill development, but current massing, height, and setback restrictions meant a new build would offer less floor area than the existing structure. Retention and conversion provided the best balance of income, policy alignment, and future flexibility.
buyer
appeal
Buyers were drawn to the scale of the existing structure, the income from four units, and the walkable, high-demand location near Commercial Drive. The property offered long-term cash flow, future potential, and a character form that couldn’t be replaced under current zoning.
Four stratified units
Laneway access
High-demand neighbourhood
specifications
Zoning: RT-5
FSR Potential: 0.75 (existing structure exceeds this)
Parking: Garage with 2 artist studios (convertible to laneway house)
Storeys: 2
PID: 007-945-132
Legal: LOT B (REFERENCE PLAN 31), EXCEPT THE NORTH 8 FEET, NOW LANE, AND PART IN EXPLANATORY PLAN 19393 OF LOTS 10 TO 12 BLOCK 44 DISTRICT LOT 264A PLANS 421 AND 1771
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