S.W. Marine Real Estate Agent

Overview & Character

S.W. Marine Drive traces Vancouver’s southern edge where the city meets the Fraser River—a corridor of estate properties on lots that would be impossible to assemble elsewhere in Vancouver’s densely developed landscape. Here, residences sit on grounds measured in fractions of acres, where mature trees screen homes from the road, and where the scale of living recalls an earlier era of Vancouver development.

The corridor’s character is distinctly estate-oriented. Properties feature substantial homes, often custom-built, surrounded by landscaping that takes advantage of the generous space. Some enjoy views of the Fraser River or mountains; others derive their appeal from privacy and room that Vancouver’s standard lots simply cannot provide.

What sets S.W. Marine apart is scale. In a city where 33-foot lots are common and 50-foot lots are considered generous, S.W. Marine properties often exceed 15,000, 20,000, or even 25,000 square feet. This scale creates opportunity—for living large, for custom building, or for development potential that smaller lots cannot support.

Location & Context

S.W. Marine Drive runs along Vancouver’s southwestern edge, connecting Marpole to Point Grey and eventually to UBC. The corridor offers:

UBC Proximity: The western end connects to UBC’s campus, making the corridor attractive to university-affiliated buyers.

Fraser River Access: Some properties enjoy river views or access to Fraser River trails.

Relative Seclusion: The corridor’s location away from central Vancouver creates a more suburban feel than most city neighbourhoods.

Green Space: Adjacent to Musqueam lands and various parks, the area maintains green character.

Real Estate Market Analysis

Current Market Conditions

S.W. Marine properties trade infrequently, with each transaction reflecting unique property characteristics.

Standard Properties: Smaller lots (by corridor standards) typically trade in the $3-4.5 million range.

Large Estates: Properties with significant lot size (20,000+ SF) and quality improvements range from $4-7 million.

Premium Properties: Exceptional estates with views, oversized lots, or outstanding improvements can exceed $7-10 million.

Investment Potential

S.W. Marine investment reflects estate market dynamics:

• Lot Premium: Large lots command inherent value
• Development Potential: Some properties may support multiplex or subdivision
• UBC Demand: University proximity supports stable market
• Scarcity Value: Few comparable properties exist in Vancouver

Market Dynamics

S.W. Marine values are influenced by:

• Lot size and configuration
• Development potential under current zoning
• View exposure and privacy
• UBC and institutional demand

Community & Amenities

Natural Environment

• Fraser River: Proximity to waterway and trails
• Musqueam Park: Adjacent green space
• McCleery Golf Course: Public golf course nearby
• Celtic Avenue: Connection to Southlands trails
• Pacific Spirit Park: Accessible via nearby routes

UBC Campus

• UBC Facilities: Access to university amenities
• Museum of Anthropology: World-class museum
• UBC Botanical Garden: Gardens and Greenheart TreeWalk
• Beaches: Wreck Beach and Spanish Banks accessible
• Cultural Programming: University events and lectures

Services & Convenience

• Marine Drive Services: Retail along Marine Drive
• Marpole: Nearby neighbourhood services
• Kerrisdale: Accessible shopping and dining
• Richmond: Quick access via Oak Street Bridge
• YVR Airport: Convenient airport proximity

Development Considerations

S.W. Marine’s large lots create selective development opportunities.

Why Large Lots Matter

S.W. Marine properties may offer:

1. Multiplex Potential: Lots meeting size requirements may support density
2. Subdivision Opportunity: Some properties could support lot splitting
3. Custom Building: Space for significant new construction
4. Estate Improvement: Room for pools, tennis courts, gardens

Development Economics

S.W. Marine development considerations:

• Land Values: Premium pricing reflects lot scale
• Construction: Estate-quality expectation drives costs
• End Values: Market for luxury product in this location
• Zoning Analysis: Individual property assessment required

Strategic Considerations

• Site-Specific: Each property requires individual analysis
• Zoning Clarity: Verify development rights before acquisition
• Market Position: Understand buyer demographics for the corridor
• Quality Requirement: Estate area expects premium execution

Living on S.W. Marine Drive

The Estate Lifestyle

S.W. Marine living offers:

• Space: Room for lifestyle amenities impossible elsewhere
• Privacy: Large lots and landscaping create separation
• Quiet: Removed from urban density and activity
• UBC Access: University amenities within reach
• Nature: River, parks, and green space nearby

Who Thrives Here

S.W. Marine suits:

• Buyers seeking large lots unavailable elsewhere
• UBC-affiliated families wanting estate living near campus
• Custom home builders with specific vision
• Those who value space and privacy over walkability
• Multi-generational families needing room

Lifestyle Considerations

• Car Required: Suburban character necessitates driving
• Maintenance Commitment: Large properties require ongoing care
• Limited Walkability: Few pedestrian-accessible services
• Estate Responsibility: Properties demand attention and investment
• Market Patience: Selling large properties may require time

Working With Greyden Douglas on S.W. Marine

My approach to S.W. Marine combines estate market expertise with practical assessment:

• Lot Analysis: Evaluating size, configuration, and potential
• Development Assessment: Understanding what properties can support
• UBC Connections: Relationships within university community
• Discretion: Maintaining confidentiality in significant transactions

Whether seeking an estate property, evaluating development potential, or selling a significant asset, I provide the expertise S.W. Marine’s unique market demands.