Overview & Character
Point Grey occupies the apex of Vancouver residential real estate—a neighbourhood where grand homes survey panoramic views of ocean, mountains, and city, where forest and beach lie at the doorstep, and where proximity to UBC adds intellectual and cultural richness to natural splendor. This is Vancouver’s blue-chip residential address, where location, views, and lifestyle combine to create something truly exceptional.
The neighbourhood’s character reflects its geography. Perched on a peninsula between Burrard Inlet and the Fraser River delta, Point Grey enjoys aspect, elevation, and access that cannot be replicated. Many properties command sweeping views from the Gulf Islands to the North Shore peaks. Streets wind through mature landscaping, connecting grand estates to beach access points and park trails.
What sets Point Grey apart is its complete package of advantages. Residents enjoy Spanish Banks Beach minutes from their doors, Pacific Spirit Park’s forests for daily exploration, UBC’s cultural offerings and employment opportunities, and the quiet prestige of Vancouver’s most sought-after addresses.
History & Heritage
Point Grey takes its name from Captain George Grey, a British naval officer, with the peninsula named during Captain George Vancouver’s 1792 exploration. The area developed as a separate municipality in 1908, amalgamating with Vancouver in 1929.
The neighbourhood’s residential character was established early, with large lots and building restrictions ensuring spacious, high-quality development. Many of Point Grey’s finest homes date from the 1920s and 30s, when prominent Vancouverites built substantial residences to take advantage of the exceptional setting.
The establishment of UBC in 1915 (with campus construction beginning in earnest in the 1920s) added another dimension to Point Grey’s appeal, creating a permanent cultural and educational amenity that distinguishes this neighbourhood from pure residential enclaves elsewhere.
Real Estate Market Analysis
Current Market Conditions
Point Grey commands Vancouver’s highest residential prices, reflecting irreplaceable location and limited supply.
View Properties: Homes with significant ocean or mountain views typically range from $4.0 to $8.0 million. Exceptional view properties with large lots can command $10-20 million or more.
Standard Properties: Homes without premium views but enjoying the Point Grey address and amenities range from $2.8 to $4.5 million.
Development Sites: Larger lots suitable for subdivision or multiplex development are increasingly rare and command premium prices when available.
Investment Potential
Point Grey investment fundamentals:
- Scarcity Value: No new Point Grey can be created
- View Premium: Ocean and mountain views command permanent premiums
- UBC Demand: University creates institutional rental and purchase demand
- Long-term Hold: Properties appreciate significantly over extended periods
Market Dynamics
Point Grey values are supported by:
- Absolute scarcity of location
- Permanent natural amenities (views, beaches, park)
- UBC’s continued growth and prestige
- Generational wealth and international demand
Community & Amenities
Beaches & Natural Areas
Point Grey’s natural setting is unmatched:
- Spanish Banks: Three-kilometer beach with mountain and city views
- Wreck Beach: Natural area accessible via trails
- Pacific Spirit Regional Park: 750 hectares of forest trails
- Jericho Beach: Nearby beach with sailing centre
UBC Campus
The university adds dimension to Point Grey living:
- Museum of Anthropology: World-class museum of Indigenous art
- UBC Botanical Garden: 70 acres of diverse gardens
- Chan Centre: Performing arts venue
- Beaty Biodiversity Museum: Natural history museum
- Sports Facilities: Pools, gyms, tennis courts, golf course
Schools & Education
- University Hill Secondary: Strong public secondary school
- University Hill Elementary: Neighbourhood elementary
- Lord Byng Secondary: Nearby top-ranked school (Dunbar)
- Private Schools: Access to Vancouver’s top private institutions
Multiplex Development Opportunities
Considering a Multiplex in Point Grey?
With Vancouver's new zoning regulations, your lot may qualify for multiplex development. Get a free assessment of your property's development potential.
Point Grey presents rare multiplex opportunities where location and views can support exceptional end values.
Why Point Grey Commands Premium Development
- Irreplaceable Location: No substitute for Point Grey address and amenities
- View Potential: Properties with views can command exceptional per-unit values
- UBC Demand: Faculty and staff create strong professional tenant base
- Quality Expectations: Market rewards premium design and finishes
Development Economics
Point Grey multiplex development requires exceptional execution:
- Land: $3.5-6.0M+ depending on views and lot size
- Construction: $450-600/sf for luxury specification
- End Units: $1.2-2.5M+ for view units
- Rental Rates: $4,000-7,000+ for premium units
Strategic Considerations
- View Optimization: Design to maximize view capture for each unit
- Premium Finish: Market expects excellence
- Parking: Essential in this location
- Privacy: Buyers value separation and screening
Working With Greyden Douglas in Point Grey
My approach to Point Grey combines market expertise with appreciation for what makes this neighbourhood singular:
- View Analysis: Understanding which views command premium values
- UBC Knowledge: Connections within university community
- Development Expertise: Evaluating exceptional site opportunities
- Discretion: Maintaining confidentiality in high-value transactions
Whether seeking your dream home with spectacular views, selling a treasured family property, or evaluating rare development opportunities, I provide the expertise Point Grey’s exclusive market demands.
Ready to Explore Point Grey?
Whether you're buying, selling, or exploring multiplex opportunities in Point Grey, I'm here to help. With nearly 20 years of Vancouver real estate experience, I'll guide you through every step.