The Beauty of Black Kitchens: Timeless, Bold, and Surprisingly Livable

Black kitchens have officially shed their “too dark” reputation and stepped confidently into the spotlight. Once considered risky or overly dramatic, black kitchens are now one of the most sought-after design choices in modern homes — and for good reason.

Whether you’re renovating, building, or getting ready to sell, a black kitchen can be both a statement piece and a smart investment.

Why black kitchens never go out of style
Black is one of the few colours that truly transcends trends. While white kitchens ebb and flow with design cycles, black remains consistently elegant. It pairs beautifully with nearly every material — wood, stone, metal, glass — making it endlessly adaptable.

A well-designed black kitchen doesn’t date quickly. It evolves.

Depth, contrast, and instant sophistication
Black kitchens add depth in a way lighter colours simply can’t. Matte black cabinetry creates a soft, modern feel, while high-gloss finishes bring drama and reflection. When paired with natural wood accents, brass hardware, or warm lighting, black kitchens feel inviting rather than cold.

Think less “dark cave,” more “moody masterpiece.”

Surprisingly practical for real life
Here’s the part that often surprises homeowners: black kitchens can actually hide everyday wear better than white ones. Fingerprints, smudges, and minor scuffs are often less noticeable, especially with matte finishes.

For busy households — kids, pets, coffee spills, the whole package — that’s a big win.

Lighting makes all the difference
The secret to a successful black kitchen is lighting. Under-cabinet lighting, pendant lights, and natural light keep the space balanced and functional. In Prince George homes especially, thoughtful lighting design ensures black kitchens feel warm year-round, even during darker winter months.

When done right, black kitchens feel cozy, not gloomy.

Do black kitchens help with resale?
Short answer: yes — when executed properly.

Today’s buyers are drawn to kitchens that feel intentional and high-end. A black kitchen signals confidence in design and often photographs beautifully, which matters more than ever in online listings. It also helps a home stand out in a competitive market without feeling trendy for trend’s sake.

If you’re considering a black kitchen and wondering how it might impact resale value, that’s a conversation worth having before you commit.

Thinking about a black kitchen in your next move?
Whether you’re updating your current home or planning your next one, kitchens matter. They’re where buyers linger, imagine their routines, and decide how a house feels.

If you’re curious how design choices like black kitchens play into today’s Prince George real estate market, I’m always happy to chat.

You don’t need to guess — let’s make it intentional.

Jason Luke
RE/MAX Realtor, Prince George
jasonlukehomes@gmail.com
250-301-9960

Because great homes deserve great kitchens — and maybe a little drama. 😼🍷

🏡 Opportunity Knocks in Mackenzie! 🛠️

$259,900 | 13145 Highway 39

MLS®: R3026502

Looking for a project with big potential? This 22.2-acre rural foreclosure property just 7 km south of Mackenzie

Featuring:

🔹 4 bedrooms

🔹 2 bathrooms (1 roughed-in)

🔹 4-level split home with metal roof

🔹 Off-grid living: generator power, private well water

🔹 Basement rec room and crawlspace

🔹 Huge lot with endless possibilities

This property is best suited for a contractor, builder, or serious renovator looking to finish the job and bring it to life. No hydro connected, some siding unfinished, interior needs significant work—but the value is there for the right buyer.

📩 jasonlukehomes@gmail.com

📞 250-301-9960

#PrinceGeorge #remax #remaxhustle #realtor #realtorPG

This one takes me back to my Tri-Cities days. In March 2013, I was recognized in the Tri-City News for qualifying for the MLS Medallion Club while working in the Tri-Cities area — Port Coquitlam, Coquitlam, and Port Moody. Different market, faster pace, and a lot of lessons learned early.

That experience shaped how I work today. The area taught me tight timelines, strong negotiations, and how important it is to stay calm when things move quickly. I brought all of that with me to Prince George — just with fewer bridges and a much shorter commute 😄

Markets change, cities change, but experience sticks. Every chapter adds to how I serve my clients today, and I’m grateful for all of it.

Thinking about buying or selling in Prince George? I’m always happy to chat 🏡

Jason Luke
jasonlukehomes@gmail.com

250-301-9960

#PrinceGeorge #remax #remaxhustle #realtor #realtorPG

Buying a Home in Prince George: A Local Guide for Buyers Who Want It Done Right

If you’re thinking about buying a home in Prince George, welcome — you’ve got excellent taste and a strong appreciation for fresh air, big skies, and a city that still knows how to wave at its neighbours. Prince George continues to be one of Northern BC’s most livable and attainable real estate markets, especially for buyers who want space, value, and community without the big-city price tag.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, relocating for work, downsizing, or looking for a forever home, having the right local guidance makes all the difference. That’s where Jason Luke comes in.

Why Buying a Home in Prince George Makes Sense

Prince George offers something that’s getting harder to find elsewhere in BC: real options. Detached homes with yards. Neighbourhoods with personality. Streets where kids still ride bikes and neighbours actually talk.

From the Hart Highway and College Heights to the Heritage area, Beaverly, and newer subdivisions, Prince George real estate has a wide range of homes for different budgets and lifestyles. Buyers are often surprised by how much home they can get here compared to southern markets — and how strong the sense of community feels once they arrive.

Your First Step: Knowing Why You Want to Buy

Before scrolling listings at midnight (we’ve all been there), it helps to get clear on your why. Are you buying to stop renting? To build equity? To have room for family, hobbies, or a home office that isn’t also the kitchen table?

Jason works with buyers to sort out must-haves versus nice-to-haves, preferred neighbourhoods, commute times, and long-term plans. Buying a home in Prince George isn’t just about today’s needs — it’s about choosing a place that still works for you years down the road.

Mortgage Pre-Approval: The Smart Buyer Move

One of the most important steps when buying a home in Prince George is getting pre-approved for a mortgage. It gives you a clear price range and shows sellers you’re serious, prepared, and ready to move when the right home comes along.

Jason can connect you with trusted mortgage professionals who understand the Northern BC market and local lending considerations. Less guesswork, more confidence. Always a good trade.

Finding the Right Prince George Home with MLS® Access

Once your budget and priorities are clear, Jason uses the MLS® system to find homes that truly match your needs — not just what happens to be available that day.

Because he knows Prince George neighbourhood values and market trends, Jason helps buyers assess pricing, condition, and resale potential before emotions take over. That calm, steady guidance can save you money and a few sleepless nights.

From Offer to Keys (and Everything in Between)

Buying a home comes with inspections, conditions, negotiations, paperwork, and about twelve moments where you think, “Is this normal?” (It usually is.)

Jason guides buyers through every step — coordinating inspections, reviewing documents, negotiating fairly, and keeping the process moving smoothly. The goal is a purchase that feels exciting, not overwhelming.

Why Work with a Local Prince George Realtor?

Real estate is local. Really local. Jason lives and works in Prince George and understands the details that matter — neighbourhood quirks, lot sizes, zoning, seasonal considerations, and long-term value.

You’re not just buying a house. You’re choosing a place to live, grow, and belong. Having a realtor who knows the community makes that decision a whole lot easier.

Thinking About Buying a Home in Prince George?

If you’re considering buying in Prince George or just starting to explore your options, Jason is happy to help you plan your next step — no pressure, no salesy nonsense.

Contact Jason Luke
jasonlukehomes@gmail.com
250-301-9960

Because finding the right home should feel exciting… not like a full-time unpaid internship. 🏡😄
#PrinceGeorge #remax #remaxhustle #realtor #realtorPG

Prince George on the brink of 100,000: what that growth really means for home buyers and sellers

Prince George has been quietly doing something big. According to a recent report from CBC News, the greater Prince George area is now estimated to have passed the 100,000-resident mark. Not officially, not census-final yet, but close enough that it has everyone paying attention.

For a city long known as British Columbia’s northern capital, this milestone matters. It signals momentum. It signals confidence. And for anyone thinking about buying, selling, downsizing, or investing in Prince George real estate, it signals opportunity.

Let’s break down what’s happening and why it matters to you.

What the numbers are telling us

Statistics Canada estimates place the greater Prince George area at just over 100,000 residents as of mid-2025. That includes the city itself plus surrounding rural areas. While the official count won’t be confirmed until the 2026 census, local observations back it up: more traffic, more housing starts, and more activity across neighbourhoods.

Simon Yu has been clear about his vision. He believes Prince George isn’t just growing, but that it should grow, with a long-term goal of doubling the population over the next decade or so. Ambitious? Absolutely. But it’s rooted in infrastructure that was originally built for a much larger city.

A city built ahead of its time

Here’s a fascinating piece of Prince George history: back in the 1970s and 1980s, city planners expected the population to hit 100,000 before 1990. Roads, utilities, and services were built with that future in mind.

Then growth slowed.

Fast-forward to today, and Prince George has something rare: existing infrastructure with room to grow. That’s a huge advantage compared to cities that must constantly expand outward, building costly new roads and services.

From a real estate perspective, this supports smarter growth: more density, revitalized neighbourhoods, infill development, and renewed interest in the downtown core.

Why this matters for buyers

If you’re buying in Prince George, population growth tends to bring a few consistent trends:

• increased housing demand over time
• stronger long-term property values
• more amenities, services, and local businesses
• renewed investment in established neighbourhoods

This doesn’t mean prices jump overnight. Prince George has always been known for relative affordability compared to southern BC markets. But steady growth often rewards buyers who get in before demand fully accelerates.

For first-time buyers, this can be a chance to purchase while the market still offers choice and breathing room. For families, it means growing communities with improving services. For investors, it means watching rental demand and neighbourhood transitions carefully.

Why this matters for sellers

For sellers, growth changes buyer psychology. A growing city attracts people relocating for work, education, healthcare, and lifestyle. That brings fresh eyes to listings and often more competition for well-located homes.

Homes close to schools, hospitals, shopping, and established infrastructure tend to benefit first. Sellers who prepare properly, price realistically, and understand current buyer expectations are often best positioned as the market evolves.

This is where local knowledge really matters. Growth isn’t uniform. Some areas heat up faster than others, and timing can make a meaningful difference.

Smart growth is the key

One message that came through clearly in the CBC coverage is the importance of smart growth. Density over sprawl. Thoughtful development over quick expansion. Maintaining what makes Prince George feel like Prince George.

As a local realtor, I see this balance play out daily. Buyers want space, yes, but they also want walkability, convenience, and community. Sellers want value, but also stability and long-term confidence in their neighbourhood.

Handled well, growth can be a win for everyone.

What this means for your next move

Whether you’re thinking about buying your first home, upsizing, downsizing, or planning a future sale, understanding where Prince George is headed helps you make better decisions today.

Population growth isn’t just a headline. It shapes markets, timelines, and opportunities.

If you’d like to talk about how this growth could affect your specific situation, I’m always happy to help.

Jason Luke
Prince George Realtor

jasonlukehomes@gmail.com
250-301-9960

#PrinceGeorge #remax #remaxhustle #realtor #realtorPG

55615 Jardine Road, Prince George

$639,900

MLS® R3074787

If you’ve been dreaming of lake life with just the right amount of elbow room (and a view that makes your morning coffee purr-fect ☕🐱), this one’s worth a look.

This well-kept double-wide modular home offers 2 bedrooms, an office, and 2 bathrooms, with vaulted ceilings and a bright kitchen and dining area that soak up those sunrise lake views. Step out onto the large deck and enjoy the kind of calm that makes you forget what day it is — very paws-itively relaxing.

Outside, you’ve got a 24' x 32' shop, a guest cabin, extra sheds, and a covered deck for year-round enjoyment. The parcel is level, sunny, and nicely private — ideal for anyone craving a slower pace while still staying close to Prince George. Nature lovers, hobbyists, and lake-life loungers… this one’s calling your name.

Curious to see if this could be your next happy place? Let’s chat — no cat-nap required 😺

Jason Luke

jasonlukehomes@gmail.com

250-301-9960

#PrinceGeorge #remax #remaxhustle #realtor #realtorPG

#TuesdayTestimonial 🏡🙌

“Jason is a fantastic realtor in Prince George! He goes above and beyond for his clients, works tirelessly to ensure every detail is handled, and is a great negotiator, protecting their best interests. He’s very knowledgeable, professional, and genuinely cares about his clients. Highly recommend Jason to anyone buying or selling in the area!”

Big thanks to M.E. for the kind words — reviews like this are the cat’s meow 😺 (couldn’t resist).

If you’re thinking about buying or selling in Prince George and want someone who truly has your back, let’s chat.

jasonlukehomes@gmail.com
250-301-9960 📞

#PrinceGeorge #remax #remaxhustle #realtor #realtorPG

Wiarton Willie says early spring is on the way… and this little gopher already marked one as SOLD. 🐾🏠
Looks like the market is waking up from its winter cat nap and stretching into selling season.

If you’ve been paws-ing on buying or selling, this might be your cue to stop fur-midating the process and start making a move. Early spring energy means curious buyers, motivated sellers, and fewer snowbanks photobombing your listing photos.

Whether you’re ready to pounce on a new place or just want to sniff around your options, I’m always happy to help you land on your feet.

Jason Luke
250-301-9960
jasonlukehomes@gmail.com
jasonluke.ca

#GroundhogDay #EarlySpring #JasonLuke #PrinceGeorgeRealEstate #REMAXCoreRealty #CatPuns #PurrfectTiming #HomeSweetHome #BuySellRepeat #AlwaysLandingOnYourFeet

February doesn’t always get the love it deserves. It’s cold, it’s quiet, and it’s often overlooked in real estate chatter. But for buyers? February can actually be a bit of a hidden gem. Less noise, more opportunity, and a few advantages that don’t always show up in the spring rush.

Here are five key reasons why buying a home in February can be a smart move.

1. Less competition, more breathing room
   February tends to be calmer in the real estate market. Fewer buyers are actively house-hunting, which means you’re less likely to find yourself in bidding wars or rushed decisions. With fewer offers flying around, you can take your time, ask questions, and make thoughtful choices instead of feeling like you’re sprinting through open houses in your winter boots.

2. Motivated sellers are still in the game
   Sellers who list in February usually have a reason. Maybe they’re relocating, downsizing, or working with a firm timeline. That motivation can translate into more flexibility when it comes to price, conditions, or possession dates. In short: conversations are often more practical and productive this time of year.

3. You see the home in its toughest season
   Winter shows a house at its most honest. February lets you see how well a home handles cold weather, snow, heating demands, and limited daylight. You’ll notice things like insulation quality, window performance, driveway drainage, and how the home feels on a dark winter afternoon. If it’s cozy and comfortable in February, it’s probably going to shine the rest of the year.

4. Professionals have more availability
   Inspectors, lawyers, lenders, and movers are often less booked up in February compared to the spring surge. That can mean more scheduling flexibility, quicker turnaround times, and a smoother overall process. Everyone has a little more time to focus on your purchase, which can make a big difference when details matter.

5. You’re ready before the spring rush
   Buying in February puts you ahead of the curve. Instead of scrambling when inventory and competition spike in March and April, you’re already settled or well on your way. That means less stress, fewer compromises, and the satisfaction of knowing you didn’t get swept up in the seasonal frenzy.

February may be short, but it packs a surprising punch when it comes to home-buying opportunities. Sometimes the quiet months are where the smartest moves happen — scarves on, pressure off, and decisions made with a clear head.

If you’re curious about what’s available right now or want to explore whether February buying makes sense for you, it’s always worth a conversation. Winter doesn’t last forever, but a good home does.

Here’s a full, SEO-rich blog post you can use on Jason’s site or blog. Written for Prince George, Canadian spelling, friendly but professional, and quietly working hard for Google behind the scenes like a well-trained house cat 🐾

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Home Staging in Prince George: How It Helps Homes Sell Faster and for More

If you’re thinking about selling your home in Prince George, there’s one step that often gets underestimated but can make a serious difference: home staging.

Home staging isn’t about pretending you don’t live in your house or turning it into a showroom no one’s allowed to touch. It’s about helping buyers picture themselves living there. When done right, staging highlights the best features of your home, minimizes distractions, and helps it stand out in a competitive Prince George real estate market.

As a local Prince George realtor, I’ve seen first-hand how proper home staging can help homes sell faster, attract stronger offers, and reduce stress for sellers.

What is home staging, really?

Home staging is the process of preparing your home for sale so it appeals to the widest range of buyers possible. This can include:

• Decluttering and depersonalizing
• Rearranging or removing furniture
• Improving lighting and flow
• Adding simple décor touches
• Making minor repairs or updates

The goal isn’t perfection. The goal is connection. Buyers should walk in and immediately feel like the space makes sense for their life.

Why home staging matters in the Prince George real estate market

Prince George buyers are practical, but they’re also emotional. They want homes that feel warm, functional, and well cared for. A staged home helps buyers see potential instead of problems.

Here’s what staging does in real terms:

• Homes feel larger and brighter
• Photos look better online, where most buyers start
• Buyers spend more time in the space
• Listings stand out from similar homes
• Buyers are more confident making offers

In many cases, staging helps avoid price reductions because the home shows well from day one. No chasing the laser pointer around later wondering why it didn’t sell.

How staging helps buyers decide faster

Most buyers decide how they feel about a home within minutes. Sometimes seconds. A staged home gives them clear answers right away.

They’re not wondering where their couch would go.
They’re not distracted by clutter.
They’re not mentally renovating the whole place.

Instead, they’re thinking, “This could work.”

That’s a powerful shift.

Home staging doesn’t mean expensive renovations

One of the biggest myths about home staging is that it requires spending a lot of money. In reality, some of the most effective staging strategies cost very little.

Simple changes often make the biggest impact:

• Removing excess furniture
• Tidying storage areas
• Freshening up paint in key rooms
• Improving lighting
• Cleaning windows and floors thoroughly

Sometimes it’s not about adding anything at all, just knowing what to take away.

As a Prince George real estate professional, I help sellers focus on the changes that actually matter, not the ones that just look nice on Pinterest.

Staging and photography go paw in paw

Most buyers see your home online before they ever step through the door. Staging makes a huge difference in listing photos.

Well-staged homes photograph better because they:

• Look brighter
• Show room size accurately
• Feel inviting
• Stand out in search results

Better photos lead to more showings. More showings lead to stronger interest. Stronger interest leads to better outcomes. It’s a tidy little circle, very satisfying, much like a cat curling up exactly where it wants to be.

Do you need professional staging?

Not always.

Some homes benefit from full professional staging, especially vacant properties or higher-end listings. Others simply need guidance and a fresh set of eyes.

Part of my job as a Prince George realtor is helping you decide what level of staging makes sense for your home, your timeline, and your budget. No one-size-fits-all approach, and definitely no unnecessary fluff.

Why staging is part of a smart selling strategy

Home staging isn’t about tricking buyers. It’s about presenting your home at its best.

When buyers feel comfortable, confident, and emotionally connected, they’re more likely to:

• Book a showing
• Make an offer
• Compete with other buyers
• Move forward with fewer conditions

That’s good for everyone involved, especially sellers who want a smoother, less stressful experience.

Thinking about selling your home in Prince George?

If you’re considering selling, staging should be part of the conversation early, not something tacked on at the last minute. I work closely with sellers to create a clear, realistic plan that fits their situation and helps their home shine in the Prince George market.

If you’d like to talk about home staging, selling your home, or the best next steps, I’m always happy to help.

You can reach me at
jasonlukehomes@gmail.com
250-301-9960

#PrinceGeorge #remax #remaxhustle #realtor #realtorPG

$559,900

MLS® R3058245

6192 Hunt Road, 100 Mile House, BC

3 Bedrooms

2 Bathrooms

If you're looking for a peaceful place to call home — or a quieter lifestyle surrounded by nature — this one might be the perfect fit.

Sitting on 2.44 acres with beautiful Horse Lake views, this three-bedroom, two-bathroom home offers both comfort and character. The bright kitchen opens into a spacious living area where vaulted ceilings and exposed log beams create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Large windows fill the home with light while showcasing those stunning lake views.

Downstairs, the fully finished basement gives you extra flexible space — ideal for family gatherings or a quiet retreat — complete with a cozy gas fireplace and a convenient two-piece bath.

Outside, you’ll find peaceful touches everywhere: a pond and stream in the front yard, parkland behind for added privacy, and public lake access just around the corner. If you enjoy mild adventure, there’s even a nearby waterfall you can reach by a short hike.

Whether you’re thinking of downsizing, relocating to the Cariboo, or simply looking for room to breathe, this home offers a lifestyle that feels calm, connected, and full of possibility.

Ready to explore if this might be the right move for you or a loved one? I’m here to help every step of the way — especially if you’re considering a transition like downsizing, aging-in-place, or moving closer to family.

Jason Luke – Senior Relocation Specialist

jasonlukehomes at gmail dot com

250-301-9960

Prince George is part of the traditional territory of the Lheidli T’enneh Nation, a nation which encompasses over 4.3 million hectares of north-central British Columbia. As the portal to the north and the largest city in Northern BC (population of 74,000), Prince George situated at the crossroads of Highway 97 and Highway 16 and at the confluence of the mighty Fraser and Nechako rivers.

Set in nature, Prince George features a locals-favourite hiking spot known as the Cutbanks, which provide a quick, yet challenging climb with views at the summit that overlook part of the downtown area as well as the Nechako river. On the climb up keep an eye out for caves formed thousands of years ago.

Spend a day exploring the history of the first peoples by visiting Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park, home to the original Lheidli T’enneh village site and the permanent museum exhibit within the Exploration Place Museum & Science Centre. And be sure to visit Mr. PG at the junction of Highway 16 and 97. At 8.14 metres tall, this community icon is identified as one of the largest roadside attractions in Canada. 

The Ancient Forest/Chun T’oh Whudujut Provincial Park, located 113km east of Prince George, is a must-see. Chun T’oh Whudujut means “a large area of growth, over a big amount of time” and is significant because it is the only inland temperate rainforest in the world. Hiking through the trails will take you past thousand-year-old western red cedars and rich biodiversity of plants, mosses, lichens and fungi. This park also features a 450 metre universal access boardwalk and picnic shelter.

Connaught Hill is another ‘must see’ geographical landmark located in the downtown and etched out by glaciers from years gone by. Bring a picnic and your camera to enjoy the spectacular 360-degree view of Prince George that this park has to offer.

Experience the rural urbanity Prince George has to offer. As a city that flourishes in nature, start your day out with a hike, bike or ski and finish up with an après bite.

The downtown area features many types of cuisines, including two local breweries and one winery. Plus, any amount of cozy cafes to tuck into. Treat yourself to the culinary delights of local restaurants and take in a movie at the Park Drive In Theatre or try your expertise in an escape room at Exit PG.

Get outside and choose from one of 66 parks located in the city, there is a challenge for every skill level. Some parks are paved and are great for bike rides while others have hidden gems like tree bark carvings in Cottonwood Island Park. Stop at the Central BC Railway & Forestry Museum located beside Cottonwood Island Park and take a ride on the mini train. If you’re looking for something a little more daring, hit the mountain bike trails at Pidherny Recreation Site. All levels of trails exist, including a flow rider adaptive trail for hand cycles and a pump track.

During winter months, Caledonia Nordic Ski Club is a top-notch cross country ski and snowshoe facility boasting night skiing and dog trails. The trails range from easy to difficult and rentals are located on site.

For a slower pace, visit Huble Homestead Historic Site located 40km north of Prince George to learn about homesteading and the fur trade. Or take a stroll through Two Rivers Gallery located in the heart of downtown to view contemporary Canadian art and creativity.