How Canadians live. Real estate facts that will surprise you

There are practically no cars here (only guest cars), parking for local residents is provided only in the underground parking lots. The underground part of the buildings is necessary and even recommended in seismically active areas - it gives the structure resistance.

In spite of the extensive podium areas, the houses themselves, though tall, are narrow. Between them, as a rule, wide gaps. This is done consciously - so as not to block the view of the mountains and water. We can say that it is one of the rules of "vancouverism".

Another principle peculiar to the local development is that the coastline is fully owned by the state. That is, no private owner can privatize it and build up at his discretion.

There are residential complexes "for adults only".
Some houses in Canada have "adults only" status, which, in fact, means that families with children under 18 are not allowed to live in them.

There are such facilities2 in the province of Alberta, for example. As of January 2018, the local Human Rights Act3 was amended to prohibit age discrimination. The transition phase will last 15 years. By January 1, 2033, all existing "adult homes" must be converted to housing for all ages.

Owners of premises in adult condominiums did not support the initiative, explaining it as a concern for the peace of mind of adults, including the elderly, as well as a conscious choice of this way of life. Many believe that such restrictions on residents are "part of the nature "4 of condominiums, since each condominium has its own set of rules5. For example, some tenants cannot keep animals or make noise after a certain time.