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Commercial Drive: The Soul of Vancouver

Commonly known as “The Drive,” Commercial Drive is one of East Vancouver’s most vibrant and eclectic neighbourrhoods. With a history of Italians residing in the neighbourhood, this community still features family-owned cafés, pizzerias, and lively European-style patios. The Drive has evolved into a diverse, artsy hub, home to creatives, musicians, and community minded professionals.

 The neighbourhood’s energy is fueled by its locally owned and independent cafés, restaurants, and boutiques. Whether you’re sipping espresso at a historic coffee bar, enjoying farm-to-table dining, or browsing a quirky vintage shop, there’s always something to discover. It’s also a hotspot for live music, theatre, and cultural festivals, making it a hub for community engagement. 

 When it comes to housing, Commercial Drive offers a mix of charming character homes, modern townhouses, and contemporary duplexes. Many older homes have been beautifully restored, while new developments blend seamlessly into the neighborhood’s vibrant aesthetic. With easy access to transit, parks, and quick access to downtown, The Drive is a top choice for homebuyers looking for culture, convenience, and a strong sense of community.

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Mount Pleasant: Where Heritage Meets Innovation

Mount Pleasant has cemented itself as one of East Vancouver’s most sought-after neighborhoods, attracting a dynamic mix of young professionals, families, and creatives.

Known for its blend of new and modern condos and beautifully preserved heritage homes, this area offers a unique mix of old-world charm and contemporary urban living.

As one of Vancouver’s growing tech hubs, Mount Pleasant is home to a thriving startup scene, co-working spaces, and innovative businesses. This influx of professionals has driven demand for real estate, making it a competitive yet rewarding market for homebuyers.

What truly sets Mount Pleasant apart is its exceptional walkability and bike-friendly streets. People enjoy grabbing a coffee at  local cafés, exploring the independent shops, bars and restaurants along Main Street, and biking to work. Plus, with excellent transit options, including major bus routes and SkyTrain access, commuting around the city and to downtown is quick and easy.

 With its vibrant culture, strong sense of community, and high demand for housing, Mount Pleasant continues to be a top choice for those looking to invest in East Vancouver real estate.

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Renfrew-Collingwood: Affordable, Family-Friendly, and Well-Connected

For homebuyers seeking affordability without sacrificing convenience, Renfrew-Collingwood is a top contender in East Vancouver.

 This neighborhood offers a rare mix of detached homes, new duplexes, and modern condo developments, making it a great option for first-time buyers, growing families, and investors. While prices have been rising, Renfrew-Collingwood remains one of the more accessible markets in Vancouver, offering strong long-term value.

One of the area’s biggest advantages is its excellent transit connections. With Joyce-Collingwood and 29th Avenue SkyTrain stations nearby, residents can reach Downtown Vancouver in just minutes, making commuting a breeze. The neighborhood is also well-served by bus routes and cycling paths, adding to its accessibility.

 Renfrew-Collingwood is a truly family-friendly neighborhood. It has plenty of green spaces like Renfrew Ravine Park and Gaston Park,  along with top-rated schools, Renfrew Pool, community centers, and libraries. Whether you’re looking for a quiet residential street or a home close to amenities, this neighborhood offers a balanced lifestyle with room to grow.

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Hastings-Sunrise: Historic Charm Meets Modern Growth

Hastings-Sunrise is one of East Vancouver’s most exciting up-and-coming neighborhoods, offering a perfect mix of historic charm and modern development. With its tree-lined cherry blossom streets, classic character homes, and a growing number of new townhouses and duplexes, this area has become an attractive option for homebuyers looking for both community and access to recreation.

One of the biggest draws of Hastings-Sunrise is its breathtaking mountain and water views. Whether you’re strolling along New Brighton and Burrard view parks, enjoying a coffee on Hastings Street, or taking in the sunset from your balcony, the neighborhood’s natural beauty is undeniable.

 Hastings-Sunrise is also very well-connected. With quick access to Downtown Vancouver, the North Shore, and Highway 1, commuting and weekend getaways are a breeze. Skiers and Mountain bikers will love the quick access to the North shore mountains. Plus, with its close proximity to schools, parks, and local businesses, this neighborhood is an excellent choice for families and professionals looking for a vibrant yet relaxed place to call home.

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Fraserhood: A Trendy, Family-Friendly Gem

Fraserhood is bordered by East Broadway, 31st, Prince Albert, and St. George with its nexus sitting at the busy intersection of Fraser and Kingsway. The area has quickly become one of East Vancouver’s most desirable neighborhoods for homebuyers. Known for its unique mix of old and new, this vibrant community offers a blend of charming character homes, modern townhouses, and stylish duplexes—making it an ideal spot for families, young professionals, and investors alike.

What sets Fraserhood apart is its rapidly growing local scene. The area is home to an exciting mix of boutique shops, independent restaurants, and craft breweries, drawing in both longtime residents and newcomers. Popular spots like Say Mercy! and Earnest Ice Cream add to the neighborhood’s reputation as a foodie destination, while local markets and specialty grocers make daily life convenient.

With high demand for townhouses and duplexes, Fraserhood is an excellent choice for those looking to invest in a home with long-term value. Its central location provides easy access to transit, parks, and schools, making it a well-rounded neighborhood for those seeking both community charm and modern convenience. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade, Fraserhood is a must-consider option in East Vancouver’s real estate market.

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The Top 5 Neighbourhoods in East Vancouver

Check out my blog post each day this week for the Top 5 neighbourhoods in East Van.

Introduction

East Vancouver continues to be one of the most a-aft real estate markets in the city. In 2025, homebuyers are looking for a balance of affordability, community, and convenience—and East Van delivers on all fronts. While housing prices remain competitive, this area still offers more accessible entry points compared to Vancouver’s West Side, making it a better option for first-time buyers, young families, and investors .

East Vancouver is known for its vibrant culture, diverse neighborhoods, and excellent amenities. From independently owned cafes and local breweries to family-friendly parks and top-rated schools, East Van offers something for everyone. With ongoing infrastructure developments, including improved skytrain and new residential projects, this part of the city continues to grow in both value and livability.

 In this guide, we’ll explore the top five neighborhoods in East Vancouver for homebuyers in 2025, breaking down what makes each area unique, current market trends, and key reasons to consider buying in these communities. Whether you’re looking for a character home, a duplex, or an apartment in a family-friendly neighborhood, this list will help you find the perfect fit.

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