Summer’s heating up and so should your grill. It’s time to take the party outside and host a memorable get-together for friends and family. Here are some tips to remember when planning your next barbecue:

1. Plan ahead. Determine your menu and whether you might want to go potluck style. This will help you decide what to make and what to buy, as well as what you can take care of in advance and what needs to be done the same day. Pick main and side dishes that feature produce that’s in season. Save the elaborate dishes for another time and have options that you know your guests will like. 
2. Setup and decor. Keep it simple and functional for an effortless look and easy cleanup. Opt for paper plates and plastic cutlery to save on the dishes. Wrap sparking water and punch pitchers in patterned paper to dress up bottles quickly. Hang lights in your backyard to keep the party alive when the sun goes down. The local dollar store has plenty of decorative items that won’t break the bank.
3. Serve a feast. Keep dishes simple and serve buffet style. This lets your guests try new things and help themselves to seconds. Buffet style is also helpful if you’re serving kids who are picky eaters. 
4. Keep it casual. Whether it’s your invitation, location or what you’re wearing, make sure to create an atmosphere that you and your guests can completely relax in. For a stylish and functional ensemble, try the Ripzone Ottoman stripe poplin shirt from Mark’s with your favourite shorts.
5. Don’t forget the music. Consider playing tunes that everyone knows and loves. Usually, classic country, southern blues and jazz work well as outdoor background music. To save time, use free music streaming services that offer event-themed playlists. News Canada

While overall Fraser Valley real estate market activity slowed slightly in June, apartment sales reached record-breaking levels at for the month.

At 683 sales, apartment transactions 27% of all sales activity in the Fraser Valley in June, increasing 13.1% compared to apartment sales in June 2016.

“We knew that there was a growing appetite for our attached properties, but this month was exceptional,” says Gopal Sahota, Fraser Valley Real Estate Board President. “I think one reason demand has continued to be so strong for our region is that we have such diverse, robust inventory to help buyers find the right home even in a more complex market like this one,” Sahota concludes.

“... strong market fundamentals continue to underpin an elevated level of home sales,” adds Cameron Muir, Chief Economist British Columbia Real Estate Association.

“The province is in its fourth year of above-trend economic growth,” said Muir. “Strong employment growth, consumer confidence and an influx of inter-provincial migrants are important drivers of the housing market this year.” In addition, with the millennial generation now entering their household forming years, the condominium market in major urban centres is experiencing pressure on supply.

The average MLS residential price in the province is forecast to decline 1.1% this year and increase 5.2% in 2018. The decline in the provincial average price is largely due to rising demand for more affordable condominiums and a larger proportion of home sales occurring outside the Metro Vancouver region,” Muir added.

Sahota added, “More and more buyers are looking for affordable entry points into the Fraser Valley. No matter what you are trying to sell – from townhomes to ranchers – if its priced right, someone will be knocking on your door.”

FVREB July 5, 2017 and BCREA 2^nd Quarter Housing Forecast June 19, 2017