Fraser Real Estate Agent

Overview & Character

Fraser Street runs as a spine through East Vancouver, creating a neighbourhood corridor that embodies everything authentic about this side of the city. Unlike the polished uniformity of westside Vancouver, Fraser Street celebrates diversity—in its residents, its restaurants, and its architecture. This is where you’ll find third-generation Vietnamese bakeries next to new craft breweries, where Italian nonnas chat with Punjabi grandmothers, and where character homes from the 1920s stand alongside modern infill developments.

The neighbourhood’s character is defined by its unpretentious genuineness. People live here because they love the community, not because it’s trendy. The local shops aren’t curated for Instagram; they’re serving real neighbourhood needs. And the housing stock—much of it beautiful character homes with original craftsman details—offers the kind of charm that’s increasingly rare in Vancouver.

What sets Fraser Street apart is its livability at an accessible price point. Young families can find character homes with yards. First-time buyers can actually purchase condos. And investors can develop multiplexes that make financial sense. It’s Vancouver as it used to be—diverse, affordable, and community-oriented.

History & Heritage

Fraser Street takes its name from Simon Fraser, the explorer who navigated the river bearing his name in 1808. The street developed as a commercial corridor in the early 1900s as Vancouver expanded eastward, with the surrounding residential areas filling in during the interwar period.

The neighbourhood’s housing stock reflects this history. Walk the side streets and you’ll find beautiful examples of Vancouver Specials from the 1970s, Craftsman homes from the 1920s, and California Bungalows from the 1940s. Many have been lovingly maintained by long-term owners, while others have been updated to modern standards while retaining their character.

Immigration has shaped Fraser Street’s identity. Italian families arrived after World War II, followed by waves from South Asia, Vietnam, China, and the Philippines. Each community has left its mark in restaurants, shops, and community organizations. Today, this layered history creates one of Vancouver’s most genuinely multicultural neighbourhoods.

Real Estate Market Analysis

Current Market Conditions

Fraser Street offers compelling value in Vancouver’s housing market, particularly for buyers seeking character homes and investors evaluating multiplex potential.

Character Homes: Original homes on 33-foot lots typically range from $1.3 to $1.8 million, depending on condition and location. Unrenovated properties suitable for development often price at the lower end, while fully updated homes command premiums.

Duplexes: Existing duplexes range from $1.2 to $1.6 million, often presenting opportunities for renovation or redevelopment into larger multiplexes under current zoning.

Condos: Entry-level condos in older buildings start around $450,000, with newer construction ranging from $550,000 to $750,000 for larger units.

Investment Potential

Fraser Street’s investment fundamentals are strong:

• Rental Demand: Diverse tenant base including young professionals, families, and new immigrants
• Development Upside: Many lots qualify for 4-6 unit multiplexes under R1-1 zoning
• Value Gap: Significant price difference from westside creates buyer migration
• Transit Access: Good bus service and future rapid transit improvements

Market Dynamics

Several factors are driving Fraser Street values:

• Westside price increases pushing buyers east
• Growing appreciation for authentic urban neighbourhoods
• Multiplex zoning creating development interest
• Improving commercial amenities along the corridor

Community & Amenities

Dining & Shopping

Fraser Street’s commercial character is one of its greatest assets:

• Multicultural Dining: Vietnamese pho, Indian curry, Italian trattorias, Chinese bakeries, Filipino restaurants—authentic food at reasonable prices
• Local Shops: Hardware stores, fabric shops, produce markets serving diverse community needs
• Craft Breweries: Several breweries have opened, adding to the neighbourhood’s appeal
• Specialty Grocers: Asian supermarkets, halal butchers, and international specialty stores

Parks & Recreation

• Memorial South Park: Large green space with playing fields and community gardens
• Moberly Park: Sports facilities and playground
• Kingcrest Park: Quiet neighbourhood park
• Cycling Infrastructure: Bike routes connect through the neighbourhood

Schools & Families

• Sir Sandford Fleming Elementary: Well-regarded neighbourhood school
• David Thompson Secondary: Comprehensive secondary school
• French Immersion: Available at area schools
• Community Programs: Various cultural and recreational programs for families

Multiplex Development Opportunities

Fraser Street presents one of East Vancouver’s strongest cases for multiplex development, combining favorable economics with strong rental demand.

Why Fraser Street Works for Developers

1. Land Costs: 30-40% below comparable westside properties
2. Lot Characteristics: Standard 33’ x 122’ lots suitable for 4 units
3. Rental Market: Diverse tenant base with strong demand
4. Zoning: R1-1 allows up to 4 units on standard lots; larger lots qualify for 6 units

Development Economics

Typical Fraser Street multiplex numbers:

• Land: $1.2-1.5M for development sites
• Construction: $320-380/sf depending on spec level
• End Units: $550-700K each for strata; $2,000-2,400 monthly for rental
• Timeline: 18-24 months from purchase to completion

Strategic Considerations

• Location Premium: Closer to transit commands higher values
• Target Market: Young professionals and families seeking space at accessible prices
• Building Type: Wood-frame construction for cost efficiency
• Character Retention: Some properties may qualify for heritage bonuses

Current Activity

The Fraser Street multiplex market is active:

• Multiple builders pursuing projects along the corridor
• Growing interest from investors seeking better returns than westside
• Some older duplexes being redeveloped as multiplexes
• New rental buildings adding to housing stock

Working With Greyden Douglas for Fraser Street Real Estate

My approach to Fraser Street combines neighbourhood knowledge with investment expertise:

• Market Understanding: Deep knowledge of block-by-block values and trends
• Builder Relationships: Connections with East Vancouver developers
• Investment Analysis: Detailed feasibility for development properties
• Buyer Guidance: Helping clients understand value in this evolving market

Whether buying a family home, selling a character property, or pursuing multiplex development, I provide the expertise to navigate Fraser Street’s opportunities.