Author: Umar Mukhtar – PREC*

Chilliwack’s creative calendar is getting a major spotlight this fall as the Chilliwack Independent Film Festival returns for its 10th annual edition from October 21–25, 2026. With more than 110 films on the program, the five-day celebration offers plenty of opportunities to discover emerging voices and compelling independent stories.

Festival events will take place at Galaxy Cinemas Chilliwack, Cowork Chilliwack, and The Grand Hall, bringing filmmakers, audiences, and local creatives together across the community. Alongside screenings, attendees can enjoy industry events designed to spark conversation, connection, and inspiration.

For those who want the complete experience, the all-access pass is $79.99 and includes the festival’s screenings and special events, culminating in an awards ceremony. It is an easy way to build a full itinerary and support independent film in Chilliwack.

Whether you are a longtime film fan or simply looking for a memorable local outing, CIFF 2026 is worth adding to your calendar. Visit https://www.ciff.ca/ for the latest schedule and ticket information, and share the event with friends who love great stories and community experiences.

A proposed tax would target about 5,000 vacant, unsold condos in Metro Vancouver, charging 2% of assessed value for units empty over a year, increasing by 1% each additional year. Estimates of unsold condos vary due to different construction stages included. Developers and experts warn the tax could lower prices short-term but cause delays and other issues. The policy's fate depends on the upcoming election.

I’m always watching the housing numbers, because even the smallest shifts can matter when you’re planning your next move. In August, Canada’s annual housing starts inched down to 229,046 units from July’s 229,360. Urban starts took a dip, while rural starts reached 11,224. The six-month average slipped by 1.3%. Interestingly, Quebec and Alberta saw gains, but those were balanced out by declines in Ontario.

For families here in Chilliwack and the Fraser Valley, these details shape the landscape as you look for a place to put down roots. My focus has always been on helping you navigate changes like these with clarity and confidence—because finding the right home isn’t just about numbers, it’s about your next chapter.

After nearly a decade helping families settle in Chilliwack, I’ve seen firsthand how certain home improvements can make a real difference—both for your daily comfort and your home’s resale value. Fresh paint, updated flooring, soapstone countertops, and modern appliances consistently stand out as upgrades that attract buyers. Even something as simple as a newly painted front door adds curb appeal. Thoughtful touches like creating versatile lifestyle rooms, incorporating layered lighting, investing in luxury landscaping, and using professional styling can all help your property sell faster and for a higher price. For families thinking about their next move, these are the kinds of details that can make your home truly shine.

Renting or buying—it's a question I've heard countless times from families right here in Chilliwack. Homeownership can be a powerful way to build equity, but the upfront and ongoing costs are substantial, and they can put a real strain on affordability. On the other hand, renting means you avoid those initial expenses, but with today’s high rents, saving for the future can feel like an uphill battle.

As someone who’s walked this path with my own family and helped many others do the same, I know there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The key is to weigh every factor: your comfort level with monthly payments, hidden costs, and ensuring you still have a financial safety net. My role is to make sure you move forward with clarity and confidence, whatever you decide—because finding the right home is about more than just numbers. It’s about building a life where your family can truly thrive.