Let’s paws for a moment and talk mortgages. If you’re house hunting, this is one term you’ll hear more often than “Is that load-bearing?” In the simplest terms, a mortgage is a secured loan used to buy a home. The house is the collateral, which means the lender is lending you a big bowl of trust… with a leash attached.

Now let’s scratch beneath the surface and break down the most common mortgage types you’ll run into, without turning this into a hairball of jargon.

Fixed rate mortgage
A fixed mortgage has an interest rate that stays the same for the entire term. Your payment doesn’t change, which makes budgeting predictable and calm — very much the “curl up in the sunny window” option of mortgages. Buyers who don’t like surprises (or sudden rate jumps) often gravitate here.

Variable rate mortgage
A variable mortgage has an interest rate that can move up or down based on market conditions. Sometimes your payment stays the same but the interest portion changes, and sometimes the payment itself changes. This option can save money when rates are lower, but it comes with a little more unpredictability. Think curious kitten energy — exciting, but you want to know what you’re getting into.

Conventional mortgage
A conventional mortgage is an uninsured loan that requires a down payment of 20 percent or more of the home’s purchase price. Because you’ve got more skin in the game, mortgage default insurance isn’t required.

For example, on a $500,000 home, a down payment of $100,000 or more means your mortgage would be up to $400,000. No CMHC insurance needed, which can save money over time. Less fluff, more efficiency.

High-ratio mortgage
A high-ratio mortgage is used when the down payment is less than 20 percent. These mortgages require mortgage default insurance, typically through the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC).

Using the same $500,000 home example, if your down payment is under $100,000, your mortgage would be more than $400,000 and insurance would be required. This option helps many buyers get into the market sooner — even if their savings are still growing one paw at a time.

Closed mortgage
A closed mortgage limits how much extra you can pay toward the loan during the term. Paying it off early or refinancing usually comes with penalties. These mortgages often have lower interest rates, making them a popular choice for buyers who don’t expect big changes during the term. Steady, reliable, and not easily startled.

Open mortgage
An open mortgage lets you pay off part or all of the mortgage at any time without penalties. The trade-off is a higher interest rate. This option works well if you expect a lump sum of money soon and want flexibility — kind of like keeping the door open in case opportunity wanders in.

Final meow
There’s no one-size-fits-all mortgage. The right choice depends on your finances, your comfort level with risk, and your future plans. Understanding these basics makes conversations with lenders and brokers far less intimidating — and helps you land on your financial feet.

If you’re navigating a move, downsizing, or helping a senior transition into a new home, I’m always happy to help you sort through the options and find a mortgage that doesn’t make you hiss.

Jason Luke
Senior Relocation Specialist
jasonlukehomes at gmail dot com
250-301-9960

Helping you land on the right house, one smart move at a time 🐱

Paint trends tend to tell us more than just what’s fashionable — they tell us how people want to feel at home. Heading into 2026, designers are seeing a clear shift away from cool greys and stark whites and toward warmer, richer colours that feel inviting, grounded, and lived-in.

And honestly? After a few northern winters, that tracks.

So what colours are actually taking over living rooms next year, and how do they work in Prince George homes?

Let’s take a look.

Goodbye Cold Greys, Hello Warm Personality
For years, grey was the safe choice. Easy to sell, easy to match, easy to forget. In 2026, homeowners are trading that cool, flat look for colours that feel warmer and more personal.

Think cozy evenings, natural light bouncing off snow outside, and rooms that feel like they want you to stay awhile — not rush out the door.

Olive Green: A New Neutral With Confidence
Olive green is showing up everywhere, and for good reason. It’s earthy, calming, and surprisingly flexible. It works beautifully with wood tones, leather furniture, and natural textures — all things we see a lot of in Prince George homes.

If painting an entire room feels like too much commitment, olive also works well as an accent wall or through décor like throws, pillows, and artwork. Dip a paw in before going full lion.

Mushroom and Sand-Washed Beige: Warm Without Being Boring
Designers are predicting a rise in soft mushroom tones and sand-washed beiges — colours that behave like neutrals but feel much more inviting than grey.

These shades are especially great for homeowners who want a fresh look without going bold. They add warmth, reflect light nicely during shorter winter days, and make rooms feel comfortable rather than clinical.

Soft Clay: Cozy Without Feeling Small
Soft clay tones — think warm blushes and earthy pinks — are becoming popular for living rooms meant to be lived in, not just staged.

These colours work particularly well in smaller spaces, where stark white can actually make a room feel colder and less welcoming. Clay tones add depth and warmth without overwhelming the space.

Rich Reds: Drama in the Best Way
Deep reds like burgundy and oxblood are making a comeback, especially in reading nooks, feature walls, or cozy sitting areas.

They create a “nest” effect — dramatic but comforting — and pair well with natural light, darker woods, and textured fabrics. This is a great option for homeowners who want personality without going too trendy.

Midnight Blue: Moody, Calm, and Winter-Ready
Dark blues that border on black are another big trend for 2026. These shades make living rooms feel cocoon-like, calm, and perfect for long evenings indoors.

They’re especially effective in homes with good lighting or larger windows, and they photograph beautifully — which never hurts if selling is on your radar.

What This Means if You’re Buying or Selling
Paint colour might seem like a small thing, but it can have a big impact on how a home feels — and how buyers respond to it.

If you’re selling, choosing warmer, more current colours can help your home feel move-in ready and emotionally appealing.
If you’re buying, paint is one of the easiest ways to make a house feel like your home — without major renovations.

And if you’re downsizing, relocating, or helping a family member make a move, the right colours can make a new space feel comfortable faster. Even the cat will approve. Eventually.

If you’re wondering which colours make sense for your specific home, your timeline, or your future plans, I’m always happy to talk it through.

📩 jasonlukehomes at gmail dot com
📞 250-301-9960

#PrinceGeorge #remax #remaxhustle #realtor #realtorPG

For many seniors, a home isn’t just a place to live. It’s where birthdays were celebrated, where kids grew up, where quiet mornings and long winters were weathered together. Every scuff on the wall and every cupboard has a story. So when it comes time to move, it’s rarely “just real estate.” It’s emotional. Deeply emotional.

I’ve seen this firsthand, time and time again.

Whether it’s a move to a smaller home, a condo, assisted living, or closer to family, leaving a long-time home often brings a mix of relief, sadness, worry, and even guilt. Relief at simplifying life. Sadness about leaving memories behind. Worry about the unknown. Guilt about closing a chapter that feels so important.

And that’s all completely normal.

Downsizing or relocating later in life isn’t about rushing someone out the door. It’s about helping them move forward in a way that feels respectful, supportive, and manageable. My goal is to make the process smoother, less stressful, and grounded in care — not pressure.

More than a move, it’s a transition

One of the biggest challenges seniors and families face is timing. Often, the decision to move comes after a health change, a loss, or a major life shift. That’s when stress levels are already high. Add in paperwork, packing, showings, and decisions about “what stays and what goes,” and it can quickly feel overwhelming.

That’s why slowing things down matters.

Sometimes the first step isn’t listing a home at all. It’s simply talking through options. Staying put with modifications. Moving closer to amenities. Renting for a while. Or making a gradual transition rather than a sudden one. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, and there shouldn’t be.

Honouring memories while planning ahead

A concern I hear often is, “What happens to everything?” The furniture, the collections, the photo albums, the items that hold meaning but don’t necessarily fit into a smaller space.

This part can be harder than people expect.

Taking the time to honour those memories — whether by gifting items to family, donating thoughtfully, or simply allowing space for reminiscing — can make a huge difference emotionally. It’s not about getting rid of a life. It’s about carrying the right pieces forward.

And yes, there are days when it feels heavy. That’s okay. Moving forward doesn’t mean forgetting where you’ve been.

Support for families too

It’s important to say this clearly: this process is emotional for families as well.

Adult children often want to help but aren’t sure how. They’re balancing their own lives, jobs, and responsibilities while trying to do right by a parent they love. Emotions can run high on all sides.

Having a calm, experienced third party involved can help ease tension, keep communication clear, and ensure decisions are made thoughtfully rather than in a rush.

My role is to guide, not push. To explain, not overwhelm. And to help everyone feel informed and supported along the way.

A new chapter doesn’t erase the old one

One of the most comforting things I hear from clients after a move is this: “I wish I’d done it sooner.” Not because they didn’t love their old home, but because they discovered a sense of ease they didn’t realize they were missing.

Less maintenance. More time. Better access to support or community. Peace of mind.

The memories don’t disappear when you change addresses. They come with you.

If you or someone you love is thinking about a move — even if it’s just a quiet thought in the back of your mind — I’m always happy to talk. No pressure. No timelines. Just a conversation about what the next chapter could look like.

📩 jasonlukehomes at gmail dot com
📞 250-301-9960

#PrinceGeorge #remax #remaxhustle #realtor #realtorPG

Winter in Prince George has a way of reminding us who’s boss. One minute it’s cozy, the next your furnace is working harder than a snowplow on Highway 97. The good news? One of the simplest winter energy-saving tips is also one of the most effective — and it doesn’t involve wearing three sweaters indoors.

It all comes down to your thermostat.

When no one’s home, keeping your house at full “toasty cabin” mode means your furnace is burning energy for an empty living room. Adjusting the temperature while you’re out prevents your system from maintaining an unnecessarily warm space, and over the course of a long Northern BC winter, those savings really add up.

That said, there is such a thing as turning it down too much. Big temperature drops can put extra strain on your heating system when it has to work overtime to warm the house back up. And in our climate, drastic dips can also increase the risk of frozen plumbing — which is a winter headache nobody wants.

According to Matt Sharpe, Senior Engineering Consultant at Efficiency Vermont, the sweet spot is lowering your thermostat by about 7 to 10 degrees for roughly eight hours a day. That window is ideal because it gives your furnace a break without shocking the system or your pipes.

And yes, sleep counts too.

“You can also lower the temperature when you’re sleeping,” Sharpe notes — and if you’ve ever piled on an extra blanket during a Prince George cold snap, you already know this one works. A slightly cooler home at night can be more comfortable, easier on your heating system, and easier on your energy bills.

If you’re heading to work, running errands, or turning in for the night, a modest thermostat adjustment is a small habit that can make a noticeable difference over the winter months. It’s one of those quiet, behind-the-scenes changes that keeps your home comfortable while saving money in the background.

And if winter has you thinking about your home more broadly — whether it’s energy efficiency, downsizing, or finding a place that’s easier to heat — that’s where having a local Realtor in your corner really helps.

If you’d like to talk about winter-ready homes, smart upgrades, or your next move in Prince George, reach out anytime at jasonlukehomes@gmail.com or call 250-301-9960. Staying warm should be simple — and your real estate decisions can be too.

Most people think spring and summer are the best times to buy a home — the sun is out, the lawns look great, and everyone’s in “moving mode.” But here in Prince George, winter has its own charm… and a few serious advantages that buyers often overlook. If you are thinking about making a move, the snowy season might just be the smartest time to leap.

Here is why winter buying is worth curling up with.

Fewer Buyers = Less Competition
While everyone else is hibernating (emotionally, if not literally), you get the upper paw. Winter usually means fewer buyers in the market, so you are less likely to face bidding wars. Fewer competitors means more breathing room and more negotiating power — always a good combo.

Motivated Sellers
When a seller lists in winter, they usually have a reason. Maybe they are relocating, downsizing, or need to move on a timeline. This can work in your favour when it comes to negotiating price, possession dates, or repairs. Sellers are often more flexible when there are fewer buyers prowling around.

A Real-World Test Drive
Winter lets you see how a home really performs in Prince George weather — and that is important. You get to check:

• how warm the home stays
• whether the driveway turns into a skating rink
• if the roof shows signs of ice damming
• how well the windows and doors seal out the cold

Think of it as a behind-the-scenes look at what the house is really like — not just how it looks on a sunny July afternoon.

Faster Service From Pros
Home inspectors, lawyers, and movers tend to be less busy in the winter months. That means quicker appointments, faster turnaround times, and fewer delays. It is like the whole home-buying process moves more smoothly — a rare winter miracle that has nothing to do with reindeer.

Better Deals on Movers and Services
From cleaners to painters to contractors, winter is traditionally a slower season. This can mean discounts, faster availability, and easier scheduling. Your wallet may quietly sigh with relief.

Prince George Looks Beautiful in Winter
This one is not a financial tip — just a truth. There is something cozy and magical about house hunting with snow falling around you, mountain tops dusted white, and warm lights glowing from the windows. A home can feel different in winter… sometimes in a way that just feels right.

Thinking About Making a Move This Winter?
If you need guidance, a second opinion, or just someone who knows Prince George neighbourhoods inside and out, I am always happy to help. And as a Seniors Real Estate Specialist, I work closely with downsizers and families making major life transitions — winter included.

Reach out anytime at jasonlukehomes at gmail dot com or 250-301-9960.

Let’s find you a home that feels warm, safe, and just right — even at -30.

$549,000

MLS® R3061355

1475–1477 Nation Crescent, Prince George, BC

2 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms

Here’s a smart play in Prince George’s west side lineup — four 2-bedroom units just minutes from UNBC and Pine Centre. 🏡

Live in one and let the other three cover the mortgage (and then some). It’s the kind of investment that works hard for you — with awesome tenants already in place and a location that makes renting easy.

Looking to add a solid property to your roster or finally live rent-free? This one’s worth a look.

📧 jasonlukehomes at gmail dot com

📞 250-301-9960

#TuesdayTestimonial
When someone says Jason is “the BEST,” our whiskers perk right up 😺✨
Huge thanks to C.M. for this pawsitive feedback:

“Jason is extremely thorough, professional and truly the BEST. Strongly recommend him helping you seal the deal on your perfect home⭐️ He is about the client first and foremost. Trust me, he did not disappoint.”

If you have a move coming up in Prince George — downsizing, relocating, helping a senior loved one, or stepping into a purr-fect new chapter — Jason’s here to make the whole process smoother than a kitten’s nap. 🏡💛

Questions about buying or selling in PG?
Reach out anytime: jasonlukehomes at gmail dot com or 250-301-9960

#PrinceGeorge #remax #remaxhustle #realtor #realtorPG #TuesdayTestimonial

If you’ve been dreaming about Horse Lake living, this beautiful 100 Mile House property at 6192 Hunt Road is the perfect mix of comfort, character, and pure Cariboo lifestyle. 🌲🏡✨

Priced at $534,000 and offering 1800 sq ft, this home is a standout for anyone looking for BC real estate with acreage, lake views, and year-round recreation. 🌅

With 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, this Horse Lake home blends modern convenience with rustic charm. The bright kitchen flows into an open concept living area with vaulted ceilings, log beams, and panoramic views of Horse Lake through large windows. If you’re searching for lakeview homes, family-friendly properties, or rural BC real estate, this one checks all the boxes. 💛

The fully finished basement adds even more value for buyers wanting flexible living space. A large family room, a cozy gas fireplace, and a convenient two-piece bathroom create the perfect setup for guests, teens, or a home office. Great for multi-generational living or anyone needing separate spaces. 🔥🛋️

Outside, the property truly shines. Set on 2.44 acres, this acreage features a peaceful pond, a gentle stream, mature trees, and natural privacy. 🌿💧 The backyard borders park space, creating a quiet and serene setting that buyers love when searching for 100 Mile House homes with land or rural BC properties. For outdoor lovers, a short hike from the property leads to a nearby waterfall. And public Horse Lake access is just around the corner — perfect for boating, fishing, paddleboarding, and year-round recreation. 🚣‍♂️🎣❄️

If you’ve been researching BC mortgage options, Cariboo real estate trends, or family homes in 100 Mile House, this is the kind of property that keeps showing up for all the right reasons. With strong demand for Horse Lake homes, acreage properties, and private rural real estate in the Cariboo, this home is a rare find. ⭐

Whether you’re relocating, buying your first home, investing in BC property, or dreaming of a peaceful lakeside lifestyle, 6192 Hunt Road offers incredible value and endless potential. 🌄💙

If you’re exploring homes for sale in 100 Mile House or the Cariboo, this one deserves a closer look. 🏡

Reach out anytime — I’m always happy to help you buy, sell, downsize, or make a move that fits your next chapter.

📧 jasonlukehomes at gmail dot com

📱 250-301-9960

$534,000

7615 Pearl Drive, Prince George, BC

5 Bedrooms

3 Bathrooms

2,543 Sq. Ft.

MLS® R3041289

Investor alert!

This foreclosure sale is being offered as-is, where-is — the perfect opportunity for a savvy buyer to add value. With 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a spacious basement rec room, this 2-storey family home has all the right fundamentals.

Highlights include:

Large master with private balcony & jacuzzi ensuite

Sunny deck with storage underneath

Double garage & paved parking

Fenced, treed 10,660 sq. ft. lot

With some updates, this home could shine as a profitable flip or solid rental property. Quick possession available — don’t wait on this one!

jasonlukehomes@gmail.com

250-301-9960

#PrinceGeorge #remax #remaxhustle #realtor #realtorP

🏡 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 is priced $240,000 below tax assessment and waiting for someone with vision.

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

The latest Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) report shows a small but steady rise in national home sales this October, continuing a slow recovery that has been building through most of 2025. Sales increased 0.9 percent month-over-month, marking the sixth increase in seven months.

While activity is still quieter compared with last year, many signs point to stabilising conditions heading into 2026. Actual sales remain 4.3 percent below October 2024, and the national average price dipped 1.1 percent year-over-year, but this levelling out is often what sparks renewed confidence in both buyers and sellers.

CREA’s senior economist noted that interest rates are now “almost in stimulative territory,” which is something we have not been able to say for quite some time. Lower borrowing costs usually encourage more buyers to enter the market, helping sellers move forward with their plans.

New listings fell 1.4 percent in October, tightening the sales-to-new-listings ratio to 52.2 percent. This is still a balanced market, though it is inching closer to seller-friendly territory. Canada is also holding at 4.4 months of inventory, slightly below the long-term average. A balanced market gives both sides breathing room: buyers have options, and sellers are not competing in the high-pressure environment we saw earlier in the decade.

Across the provinces, momentum remains mixed. British Columbia, Alberta, and Quebec saw increased activity this month, while Ontario, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba experienced slight declines. Even with steady national improvements, economists note that sales levels across Canada are still relatively low, and the full recovery will take time. Factors such as job-market improvements, population growth, and easing interest rates are expected to gradually lift activity into 2026.

Price trends are also showing signs of stabilisation. The MLS Home Price Index rose 0.2 percent month-over-month and now sits just 3 percent below last year. This marks the smallest annual price decline since March and points to a market that is finding its footing after a turbulent period. The national average price reached $690,195 in October.

So what does this mean for buyers and sellers here in Prince George?

For buyers, especially first-time buyers and downsizers, improved affordability and slower price growth create an opportunity to enter the market without the intense competition seen in previous years. With interest rates expected to ease further into 2026, borrowing could soon become more comfortable for many families.

For sellers, balanced conditions offer a more predictable environment. Well-priced homes continue to move, and properties with features suited to our northern lifestyle remain in demand. Detached homes, multi-generational layouts, and properties with suites continue to perform strongly as families look for flexibility and long-term value.

As someone who has worked in Prince George real estate for more than 20 years, I can say this: steady markets are healthy markets. They help buyers plan, help sellers transition smoothly, and help families make confident decisions about their next move.

If you are thinking about buying or selling in 2026, now is the perfect time to start the conversation. A clear plan, realistic expectations, and local market insight make all the difference.

Reach out anytime. I would be happy to guide you.

Jason Luke
Senior Relocation Specialist and REALTOR®
Prince George, BC
jasonlukehomes at gmail dot com
250-301-9960