Thinking about purchasing a property in the Lower Mainland? This page collects tips and advice from Terry's Blog and other resources, to give you better ideas about the kinds of features and amenities that can help a property succeed in HighStreet's hospitality management program.

HighStreet aims to produce the highest revenues and occupancies possible for the Owner-Investors who join our team. Our selection process for new properties is rigorous. Owners need to be prepared to equip and furnish the property to HighStreet standards, but here's what you need to know about what kind of property to purchase:

• The Suites
• The Buildings
• The Neighbourhoods

The Suites

• A view of water, mountains or parks is attractive but not essential;
• 2, 3 or 4 bedroom suites with 2 or more bathrooms are most frequently requested;
• Structurally in great condition (floors, doors, walls, kitchen, bathroom(s), & etc.);
• Open balconies, sunrooms, and/or home-office spaces are pluses;
• Master bedroom must fit a Queen- or King-size bed, and other bedrooms must fit a Queen- or extra-long Double-size bed;
• Living room should comfortably seat 2 people per number of bedrooms, with room for plus 1 or 2 visitors;
• Dining area must seat 2 people per number of bedrooms;
• Must have in-suite laundry and dishwasher;
• All appliances must be in great condition;
• At least one dedicated parking space per suite;
• Most ground level units are not suitable for security reasons;
• Sun-exposed suites will require air conditioning units.

The Buildings

• Location, location, location! Check with us to see what’s hot when YOU are in the market, but pay attention to
• Proximity to public and rapid transit (within walking distance is ideal)
• Close to shopping (groceries, pharmacy, banking, & etc.);
• What’s around the corner? Transitional neighbourhoods are problematic.
• A building with visitor parking is better than one without it;
• Fitness facilities are important, while lap pools and hot tubs are optional;
• Should be relatively new or in fabulously well-kept condition; condition of exterior grounds, interior halls, elevators, entrance ways, common areas, and other building facilities must be excellent;
• Concierge/Front Desk service is a plus;
• Excellent maintenance, including preventative work, is very important, so check Strata minutes for activity; avoid buildings with pending envelope issues, also known as “leaky condo” issues;
• No rental restrictions in strata by-laws;
• Occupant demographics should be consistent with profile of corporate travelers

The Neighbourhoods

• Clean, well-kept and safe;
• Loud noises emanating from railroad yards, fire halls, and especially ongoing construction, & etc., will make a property unsuitable.

With 220+ suites throughout Vancouver, Greater Vancouver, and the Lower Mainland, we'll be able to tell you if we've worked with a particular property or building before.