Overview & Character
Fairview commands the geographic centre of Vancouver—a neighbourhood where City Hall rises over Broadway, where VGH serves as a major employment anchor, and where the coming Broadway Subway promises to transform an already well-connected area into one of the region’s premier transit corridors. This is practical urban living with exceptional access to everywhere Vancouver has to offer.
The neighbourhood’s character reflects its central position. Broadway buzzes with commerce and activity. Side streets offer quieter residential living in character homes and walk-up apartments. South Granville’s gallery row provides cultural amenity. And Granville Island—technically part of False Creek but practically Fairview’s backyard—delivers market shopping, cultural venues, and waterfront access.
What sets Fairview apart is its impending transformation. The Broadway Plan anticipates the subway’s arrival with provisions for significant density increases, creating opportunity for property owners, developers, and investors alike. Those who understand this transformation can position themselves to benefit as Fairview evolves.
Broadway Subway & the Broadway Plan
The Broadway Subway Extension represents the most significant transit investment in Vancouver’s recent history, extending rapid transit from the VCC-Clark Station westward along Broadway to Arbutus Street. For Fairview, this means Broadway-City Hall Station will become a major transit hub where the new subway connects with the existing Canada Line.
The Broadway Plan anticipates this transformation:
Station Areas: Within 800 meters of stations, the plan allows towers up to 40+ storeys in some locations, with substantial density throughout.
Priority Transition Areas: Between high-rise zones and established residential, the plan permits mid-rise buildings and townhouses.
Village Areas: Broadway itself becomes a high-street with retail at grade and residential above.
The implications for property owners are significant: lots that once supported single-family homes may now allow substantial multi-family development, dramatically increasing land values in station catchments.
Real Estate Market Analysis
Current Market Conditions
Fairview offers diverse housing at various price points, with values increasingly reflecting Broadway Plan potential.
Condos: Units in established buildings range from $500,000 to $900,000 for one-bedrooms, $700,000 to $1.2 million for two-bedrooms. New developments command premiums.
Character Homes: Single-family and heritage homes typically range from $1.5 to $2.5 million, though development potential may add significantly to land value.
Development Sites: Properties within station catchments with development potential can command premiums well above single-family home values.
Investment Potential
Fairview investment offers exceptional dynamics:
- Transit Premium: Broadway Subway access creates permanent value
- Policy Opportunity: Broadway Plan allows significant density increases
- Employment Base: VGH and City Hall ensure stable rental demand
- Central Location: Equidistant from downtown and westside destinations
Market Dynamics
Fairview values are driven by:
- Broadway Subway construction progress
- Broadway Plan implementation
- Healthcare sector employment growth
- Central location convenience
Community & Amenities
Major Institutions
Fairview hosts significant employment and civic facilities:
- Vancouver City Hall: Municipal government centre
- VGH: Major regional hospital and employment hub
- BC Cancer Agency: Cancer research and treatment
- VCHA Offices: Healthcare administration
- BC Centre for Disease Control: Public health agency
Culture & Entertainment
- South Granville Galleries: Art gallery district
- Granville Island: Markets, theatres, artisan studios
- Stanley Theatre: Live theatre venue
- Pacific Theatre: Community theatre
- Various Restaurants: Broadway dining options
Parks & Recreation
- Charleson Park: Seawall access to Granville Island
- Jonathan Rogers Park: Neighbourhood park with playground
- Moberly Park: Sports fields and recreation
- Choklit Park: Community garden space
- Seawall Access: Connection to False Creek
Multiplex Development Opportunities
Considering a Multiplex in Fairview?
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Fairview presents exceptional development opportunities under the Broadway Plan’s density provisions.
Why Fairview Attracts Developers
- Broadway Plan: Significant density increases permitted near stations
- Transit Access: Subway creates permanent demand
- Employment Base: VGH and City Hall ensure stable market
- Central Location: Appeals to diverse buyer and renter demographics
Development Economics
Fairview development near Broadway-City Hall Station:
- Land Values: Significantly elevated by development potential
- Construction: $450-550/sf for mid-rise or tower construction
- End Values: Highly location-dependent; premium near stations
- Rental Rates: $2,600-4,000 for transit-oriented units
Strategic Considerations
- Broadway Plan Compliance: Understand specific site allowances
- Construction Timing: Coordinate with subway completion
- Market Positioning: Transit-oriented buyers have specific expectations
- Assembly Opportunity: Multiple lots may increase development potential
Living in Fairview
Central Convenience
Fairview offers unmatched central location:
- Downtown Access: Current bus service excellent; subway coming
- Westside Connection: Easy access to Kitsilano, Point Grey
- Airport Route: Canada Line connection at Broadway-City Hall
- Healthcare Access: VGH and specialist services nearby
Neighbourhood Variety
Fairview offers diverse living experiences:
- Broadway Corridor: Urban intensity with services and transit
- Side Streets: Quieter residential character
- South Granville: Cultural district proximity
- False Creek Edge: Seawall and water access
Who Thrives Here
Fairview suits:
- Healthcare professionals working at VGH or related facilities
- Municipal employees at City Hall
- Professionals seeking central location with transit access
- Investors anticipating Broadway Plan transformation
- Anyone who values central convenience over suburban space
Working With Greyden Douglas in Fairview
My approach to Fairview combines market knowledge with understanding of the Broadway Plan’s implications:
- Policy Expertise: Deep understanding of Broadway Plan allowances
- Investment Analysis: Evaluating development potential and appreciation prospects
- Market Timing: Guidance on buying and selling during transformation period
- Employment Connections: Understanding what VGH and City Hall workers seek
Whether seeking a transit-oriented home, investing in the Broadway corridor’s transformation, or evaluating development opportunities, I provide the expertise Fairview’s dynamic market demands.
Ready to Explore Fairview?
Whether you're buying, selling, or exploring multiplex opportunities in Fairview, I'm here to help. With nearly 20 years of Vancouver real estate experience, I'll guide you through every step.