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Spooky Fun & Fall Activities in North Langley: A Halloween Guide

October is a magical time in North Langley, with plenty of fun for families to enjoy as we move into the cozy fall season. From pumpkin patches and petting zoos to haunted history tours, here’s a roundup of Halloween and autumn activities in Fort Langley, Walnut Grove, Glen Valley, and beyond!

1. Pumpkin Patches & Farm Fun at Eagle Acres and Aldor Acres

Both Eagle Acres Dairy and Aldor Acres Farm are hosting fun-filled, family-friendly fall experiences:

  • Eagle Acres Dairy (Glen Valley) offers a wide variety of activities, including a corn maze, hayrides, and plenty of farm animals like goats and cows to interact with. The pumpkin patch is a highlight for families looking to pick out the perfect jack-o'-lantern.

  • Aldor Acres (Fort Langley) also boasts a great pumpkin patch along with a petting zoo where kids can feed and meet the animals. Hayrides make it a truly immersive farm experience, perfect for creating lasting fall memories.

Both farms give you the chance to embrace the harvest season, learn about farm life, and, of course, stock up on pumpkins!

2. Fort Langley Cranberry Festival – October 12th

If you’re planning your Thanksgiving weekend, don’t miss the Cranberry Festival on October 12th in Fort Langley. This much-loved annual event offers:

  • Artisan shopping from local vendors
  • Food trucks serving delicious fall treats
  • Cranberry-inspired dishes and products galore

The Cranberry Festival is the perfect way to celebrate the harvest season with family, while enjoying the charming atmosphere of Fort Langley. Don’t forget to grab some fresh cranberries for your Thanksgiving recipes!

3. Haunted Graveyard Tours at The Fort

For those looking for a spooky twist on history, The Fort in Fort Langley is running Graveyard Tours until Halloween. These guided tours take you through some of the most notable grave sites in the village, sharing eerie stories about the town’s original settlers. The tours offer a fascinating look into the rich history of Fort Langley, perfect for both history buffs and those who love a good ghost story.


Whether you’re pumpkin picking, enjoying a hayride, or exploring haunted graveyards, North Langley has something for everyone this Halloween season. I love helping families discover all that our community has to offer. If you’re looking to find your perfect home in Fort Langley, Walnut Grove, or Glen Valley, get in touch—I'd be happy to assist!

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Radon: What You Should Know about This Invisible Health Hazard #577

Do you live or work in a building with high radon gas levels? What risks might arise if you do? The following is a summary of what radon is and what you and your clients should consider in this respect. This article is only a starting point.

What Is Radon?

Radon is an odourless, invisible gas that seeps up through the ground and can enter a home through unsealed foundations, cracks in the foundation, gaps in construction materials, and plumbing system components, including sump pumps or drains. Radon gas is also a product of uranium decay. Like uranium, it is radioactive; unlike uranium, it can permeate through rocks or soil, escaping into the air or groundwater. All rocks or soil contain some uranium, but granite, shale, and sandy soils are higher in uranium or radon than clay, limestone, or very moist soil.

Why Is Radon Bad?

Concerns arise when radon gas accumulates in living spaces, as radon is highly carcinogenic. It is the second leading cause of lung cancer, behind smoking, causing over 3,000 deaths per year in Canada – almost eight times more than asbestos.

Where Is Radon Found?

The BC Centre for Disease Control provides a map of certain residential radon testing results across BC, but warns that radon gas levels can vary widely from house to house, even in the same neighbourhood.

Cracks in a home’s foundation or bare dirt floors in a crawlspace under the house can provide easy paths for radon to permeate from the soil into living spaces. Due to their improved insulation and airtightness, new homes can accumulate radon gas at even higher levels than older ones. While higher radon levels are found in a home's basement or lower levels, in apartment buildings or towers, radon gas levels can be higher on the top floors due to the “stack effect” or the rise of warmer air.

How Can You Test for Radon?

The radon level in a home can be measured using commercially available and relatively inexpensive radon test kits. A proper radon test takes at least 90 days to complete and is often recommended to carry out over the winter when homes are more likely to be sealed up. Opening windows and doors, as folks often do in the warmer months, can vent radon gas, yielding false low results. Shorter-term tests are available but are less accurate.

How High Is Too High for Radon Gas Levels?

If radon gas is detected in a living space, remediation measures can be undertaken to lower its levels. The World Health Organization recommends a threshold level of 100 Bq/m3 (or about 3 pCi/L) for initiating remediation measures. In the US, threshold levels of 4 pCi/L (or 148 Bq/m3) require remediation. Health Canada recommends remediation within two years for any homes with radon gas levels exceeding 200 Bq/m3, and within one year for any homes with radon gas levels exceeding 600 Bq/m3.

New Construction Standards

As of March 2024, new homes built in BC are required to have a radon gas vent pipe installed to allow the venting of soil gases from the ground beneath the basement or crawlspace to the roof or exterior of the building. This pipe is called a passive sub-slab depressurization system. While often effective at reducing high radon concentrations, a passive sub-slab depressurization system may not bring those concentrations below the guideline levels. The British Columbia Building Code does not require builders to install a fan system in the pipe to turn this into an active sub-slab depressurization system. However, homeowners may wish to install a fan system to reach levels below the recommended threshold.

Retrofitting Older Homes

Older homes can be retrofitted with radon gas mitigation systems that can range from relatively passive methods, such as sealing porous concrete and repairing any cracks in basements or crawlspaces, to more active and costly methods, such as installing a heat recovery ventilation fan in the basement or the whole home or installing a passive or active sub-slab depressurization system like those required in new home construction.

Buying or Selling a Home and Disclosure of Radon Test Results

Property owners are not required to conduct radon testing of their properties. Still, sellers are encouraged to disclose in writing (for example, in the Property Disclosure Statement) whether they have carried out any radon testing and, if so, what the results were.

Since April 2020, Property Disclosure Statements have included the following questions for sellers:

V. To the best of your knowledge, have the Premises been tested for radon?
(i) If yes, when was the most recent test completed and what was the most recent level of radon detected:
Level:_____________ □bq/m3 □pCi/L on ______________________ Date of test (DD/MM/YYYY)

W. Is there a radon mitigation system on the Premises?
(i) If yes, are you aware of any problems or deficiencies with the radon mitigation system?


Under BCFSA guidance implemented in September 2019, sellers’ agents (or landlords’ agents) who learn that the home has been tested for radon and radon levels exceeded 200 Bq/m3 have a separate obligation from that of the sellers to disclose this to potential buyers or tenants as BCFSA considers such levels to constitute material latent defects.

If purchasing a property where a seller has disclosed prior radon testing results, buyers may consider whether those results are relatively recent or whether the seller has renovated the property since the testing was done, as such work may have impacted the radon gas levels in the home. If the seller has disclosed test results exceeding 200 Bq/m3, buyers may wish to consider options such as a price reduction, a holdback for remediation by a radon professional, and / or looking at other homes.

If purchasing a property where a seller has not disclosed prior radon testing results, most buyers will not be able to conduct adequate pre-purchase inspections for radon gas, given the typical subject removal period in a residential home purchase is much shorter than the 90+ days required for accurate radon testing. Buyers may wish to ask their home inspectors or other qualified professionals for their views on potential radon gas ingress routes into the home and the possibility and cost of installing remediation measures. Buyers may also wish to consider options such as a price reduction or a holdback for testing and possible remediation by a radon professional. This can be difficult to do while working on a offer as most closings are within 30-60 days.

*Please make sure you do your own due diligence when it comes to your individual home and Radon, know one knows your home better than you do. If you are unfamiliar and want to learn more, contact a professional Radon company to learn more. 

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Secondary Suites Support - Homeowners can refinance up to 90% of their home's value

New Federal Actions to Increase Housing Supply in Canada:

The Canadian government is taking steps to address the housing crisis by unlocking and encouraging homeowners to create secondary suites. Here’s a simplified breakdown of the announcement:

  • Secondary Suites Support: Starting January 2025, homeowners can refinance their mortgages to build secondary suites (like basement apartments or laneway homes). This helps increase rental options and allows families to live closer together. Key changes include:

    • Homeowners can refinance up to 90% of their home's value.
    • Mortgage insurance price limit increased to $2 million to cover these renovations.

These measures aim to improve housing affordability and availability by using existing resources more effectively.

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Why This Fall/Winter 2024 is a Smart Time to Enter the Market

Fraser Valley Real Estate Market Update: September 2024

It looks like things are starting to shift in the Fraser Valley, with rising inventory levels and slower sales. In fact, active listings are now the highest they’ve been in 10 years, and sales are down 30% compared to the 10-year average! 

September saw just 982 sales, marking an 8% drop from August and over 10% down from this time last year. It’s definitely starting to feel like a buyer’s market, especially in the detached home sector. Surrey is seeing the largest impact of a Buyer's Market. South Surrey is also seeing a Buyers market with areas like Elgin and King George Cooridor sitting at 3-4% sales ratios. Cloverdale is seeing a more balanced market and Abbotsford is balanced to Buyer's market while Langley is holding steady in a more balanced market. 

As interest rates continue to ease, buyers are keeping a close eye on the market, waiting for the right moment to make their move. But while conditions seem to favor buyers, many properties are still sitting longer than expected, as both buyers and sellers anticipate what the next rate announcement will bring.

If you’re looking to buy or sell in this shifting market, now is the time to strategize. Let’s connect and plan your next move! 


Heather Spencer

604-613-6177

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Fall Home To Do Checklist

1. Clean the Gutters and Downspouts

  • Remove leaves and debris from gutters to prevent water backups and roof damage.
  • Ensure downspouts are clear and direct water away from the foundation.

2. Check Roof and Chimney

  • Inspect the roof for damaged or missing shingles.
  • Check the chimney for any blockages or wear, and consider a professional cleaning.

3. Seal Gaps and Cracks

  • Inspect windows, doors, and exterior walls for gaps or cracks that could let in drafts.
  • Apply weatherstripping or caulking where needed to prevent heat loss.

4. Service Your Heating System

  • Schedule a professional inspection and maintenance of your furnace or heat pump.
  • Replace filters and ensure the system is working efficiently.

5. Reverse Ceiling Fans

  • Set ceiling fans to rotate clockwise to circulate warm air during the colder months.

6. Inspect Windows and Doors

  • Check for drafts and consider installing storm windows or adding insulation film to improve energy efficiency.
  • Clean windows and ensure seals are intact to reduce heat loss.

7. Prepare Outdoor Spaces

  • Store or cover patio furniture and outdoor equipment.
  • Drain and store hoses, and shut off exterior water lines to prevent freezing.

8. Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

  • Test all smoke and CO detectors to ensure they’re functioning properly.
  • Replace batteries if necessary and confirm expiration dates.

9. Clean or Replace Air Filters

  • Replace air filters in heating systems, as clogged filters can reduce efficiency and indoor air quality.

10. Trim Trees and Bushes

  • Prune trees and bushes away from your home to prevent damage from fallen branches during storms.

11. Inspect the Foundation

  • Look for cracks or areas where water could seep in. Repair any small cracks before they become bigger problems.

12. Prepare for Storms

  • Have an emergency kit ready with flashlights, batteries, blankets, and bottled water in case of a power outage.
  • Ensure backup power sources like generators are ready to use if necessary.
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Why I Love Fort Langley, BC: A Charming Community to Call Home

Every day, I choose Fort Langley, and it's not hard to see why. This beautiful, safe, and walkable neighborhood in Langley, BC, offers everything you could want—charming shops, fantastic restaurants, and convenient amenities like grocery stores all within strolling distance. But there's more to Fort Langley than just convenience. This community is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, making it one of the most desirable places to live.

A Rich History at The Fort

At the heart of our community is The Fort, a historically significant landmark that once served as a trading post. Today, it's a government-owned site where visitors of all ages can learn about the original settlers, the First Nations who lived here long before, and how this vibrant community has evolved over time. It’s a place that connects us to our roots, reminding us of the rich history that shapes our town.

Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Trails

If you love spending time outdoors, Fort Langley has plenty to offer. One of my favorite spots is the Fort to Fort Trail, which winds along the Fraser River, offering beautiful scenery and peaceful walking paths. The parks here are abundant, providing great spaces for families and individuals alike to enjoy nature.

A Hub for Community Events

Fort Langley is a lively hub of community events that bring everyone together throughout the year. One of the biggest celebrations is the Cranberry Festival, happening this year on October 12, 2024 from 10am-4pm. The festival shuts down Glover Road and fills the streets with food vendors, boutique pop-ups, and thousands of visitors, making it one of the most anticipated events in the area.

During the holiday season, we have the magical Santa Parade. Santa arrives in a canoe and walks down Glover Street to the Fort Langley Community Hall, where the town tree is lit, accompanied by a children's choir. It’s a special moment that captures the magic of the season and brings out the true spirit of Fort Langley.

In spring, the town hosts the annual May Day Parade, a family-friendly event that’s always filled with excitement and activities for children. And more recently, Brewhala has made its mark on Fort Langley, adding a fun, lively element to our community with summer events that have quickly become a local favorite.

Exciting Developments on the Horizon

Fort Langley is always evolving while maintaining its charm. Recently, the property where summer events across from the Community Hall were held is gearing up for development, with new shops and residential homes planned, similar to the Coulter Berry Building. Additionally, the Township Council has exciting plans to create a new gathering area on the east side of the river, repurposing the old Bedford Building into an amphitheater, children's play area, and more.

Looking to Call Fort Langley Home?

Whether you're drawn to its rich history, beautiful natural surroundings, or vibrant community events, Fort Langley is an incredible place to call home. If you’re interested in learning more about this amazing town or are considering purchasing a home here, feel free to reach out to me. I’d love to show you around and keep you informed about new listings in the area.

Let me help you discover why I—and so many others—choose Fort Langley every day!

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Why I Love Fort Langley, BC: A Charming Community to Call Home

Every day, I choose Fort Langley, and it's not hard to see why. This beautiful, safe, and walkable neighborhood in Langley, BC, offers everything you could want—charming shops, fantastic restaurants, and convenient amenities like grocery stores all within strolling distance. But there's more to Fort Langley than just convenience. This community is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, making it one of the most desirable places to live.

A Rich History at The Fort

At the heart of our community is The Fort, a historically significant landmark that once served as a trading post. Today, it's a government-owned site where visitors of all ages can learn about the original settlers, the First Nations who lived here long before, and how this vibrant community has evolved over time. It’s a place that connects us to our roots, reminding us of the rich history that shapes our town.

Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Trails

If you love spending time outdoors, Fort Langley has plenty to offer. One of my favorite spots is the Fort to Fort Trail, which winds along the Fraser River, offering beautiful scenery and peaceful walking paths. The parks here are abundant, providing great spaces for families and individuals alike to enjoy nature.

A Hub for Community Events

Fort Langley is a lively hub of community events that bring everyone together throughout the year. One of the biggest celebrations is the Cranberry Festival, happening this year on October 12, 2024 from 10am-4pm. The festival shuts down Glover Road and fills the streets with food vendors, boutique pop-ups, and thousands of visitors, making it one of the most anticipated events in the area.

During the holiday season, we have the magical Santa Parade. Santa arrives in a canoe and walks down Glover Street to the Fort Langley Community Hall, where the town tree is lit, accompanied by a children's choir. It’s a special moment that captures the magic of the season and brings out the true spirit of Fort Langley.

In spring, the town hosts the annual May Day Parade, a family-friendly event that’s always filled with excitement and activities for children. And more recently, Brewhala has made its mark on Fort Langley, adding a fun, lively element to our community with summer events that have quickly become a local favorite.

Exciting Developments on the Horizon

Fort Langley is always evolving while maintaining its charm. Recently, the property where summer events across from the Community Hall were held is gearing up for development, with new shops and residential homes planned, similar to the Coulter Berry Building. Additionally, the Township Council has exciting plans to create a new gathering area on the east side of the river, repurposing the old Bedford Building into an amphitheater, children's play area, and more.

Looking to Call Fort Langley Home?

Whether you're drawn to its rich history, beautiful natural surroundings, or vibrant community events, Fort Langley is an incredible place to call home. If you’re interested in learning more about this amazing town or are considering purchasing a home here, feel free to reach out to me. I’d love to show you around and keep you informed about new listings in the area.

Let me help you discover why I—and so many others—choose Fort Langley every day!

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Ashbury and Oak by Polygon Homes

Let me introduce you to the community that I have SOLD MANY, MANY HOMES in! It is one of my favourite communities, Ashbury and Oak. 

In the bustling neighborhood of Willoughby in Langley, British Columbia, lies a remarkable townhome community that combines quality craftsmanship, spacious living, and an array of luxurious amenities. Ashbury and Oak by Polygon Homes is a collection of 2 and 3 bedroom + den townhomes that exemplify the finest in modern residential design. Built by Polygon Homes, a trusted builder in BC since the 1980s, these townhomes offer a haven of comfort and convenience for families and individuals alike.

Spacious and Thoughtfully Designed Homes:

One of the standout features of Ashbury and Oak is the wider townhome design, allowing for side-by-side parking, a rare and coveted feature in multi-unit developments. The spaciousness of these homes extends beyond the parking, as many 2-bedroom floor plans boast raised yards, providing the ideal safe outdoor space for young families with small children or those with furry friends.

Unparalleled Community Amenities:

Residents of Ashbury and Oak enjoy access to a remarkable clubhouse that serves as the social hub of the community. The clubhouse features a large great room, perfect for hosting parties and get-togethers with friends and family. For those seeking to stay active, a well-equipped gym is available, ensuring residents can maintain their fitness routines conveniently close to home.

The outdoor amenities are equally impressive, with a pool and hot tub for relaxation, a barbecue area for summer cookouts, and a lounge deck for soaking up the sun. Families will appreciate the indoor kids' play area, where children can let their imaginations run wild. Music enthusiasts can take advantage of the dedicated music room, while pet owners will delight in the convenience of the dog spa. Additionally, two guest suites are available for visitors and can be rented for a small fee, ensuring that loved ones can be comfortably accommodated during their stay. To top it all off, an on-site caretaker ensures that the community is well-maintained and the needs of the residents are promptly addressed.

Convenient Location and Nearby Amenities:

Ashbury and Oak's prime location in Langley provides residents with access to a host of nearby amenities. Families will appreciate the presence of schools in close proximity, with the IBM program at Mountain Secondary School offering an excellent educational opportunity for students. Quick access to the freeway, Carvloth exchange is just a 8 minute walk away and soon fast track bus system will be added on 200th street just 4 blocks away making transit even better. Additionally, a range of restaurants and grocery shopping options are conveniently located nearby, making everyday errands a breeze.

Ashbury and Oak by Polygon Homes offer an extraordinary living experience in the heart of Willoughby, Langley. With their spacious and thoughtfully designed townhomes, along with a wealth of top-notch amenities, this community exemplifies the epitome of comfortable townhome living. If you're in search of a modern, family-friendly community that blends convenience, comfort, and luxury, Ashbury and Oak should be at the top of your list.


Picture is of Heather & Austin in the original Ashbury and Oak display home of the two bedroom floor plan. 

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