Not just a pretty face, Relocatus Resources is the perfect place to research neighborhoods, job markets, mortgage and financing information, care facilities, and senior's services. Peruse the links below and take advantage of our experience and insider tips to plan for a smooth and successful move!
British Columbia Municipalities
B.C. Government
One of the best sites available for everything concerning government sector issues in B.C., CivicInfo BC is your source for information regarding job postings, bids and tenders, upcoming events, and local government news.
Vancouver
For information specific to the city of Vancouver, you can’t beat the city of Vancouver’s website. Whether you are a resident (or hope to be), interested in business opportunities, or even just planning a vacation to Vancouver, you will find a wealth of information suited to your needs. Mums Ice Cream on Denman St. (not too far from Mongolian Barbeque, another favourite), Jericho Beach, and Queen Elizabeth Park are all must sees!
http://www.city.vancouver.bc.ca/
Burnaby
The city of Burnaby offers business, recreation, and residential opportunities to fit every taste. Ideally located for business commuters, this bustling location is as vibrant as it is scenic. I highly recommend Deer Lake and Burnaby Mountain for outdoor fun and Metrotown Shopping Centre for more, ahem, commercial pleasures.
http://www.city.burnaby.bc.ca/Home.html
Kamloops
A dynamic city, Kamloops has something to offer everyone! Their website exemplifies this and is well designed and packed with information for residents and visitors. There is even a “Moving to Kamloops” link that utilizes the tagline “where residents are living large and paying less”. What more could you ask for?
http://www.kamloops.ca/index.shtml
Maple Ridge
With some of the nicest parks around and a thriving business community, Maple Ridge is one of the best communities on the lower mainland for families. Golden Ears Park is a popular destination regardless of where you live on the mainland and the building of the Golden Ears and Pitt River Bridges promises to make travel in and out of Maple Ridge even easier.
http://www.mapleridge.ca/index.html
North Vancouver
Grouse Mountain, Seymour Mountain, Lonsdale Quay, Lynn Canyon – these are a few of my favourite things! Ok, I admit to a certain bias toward North Vancouver. Having grown up there I can attest to the fact that you will never regret moving to the North Shore. Whether you prefer the sophisticated heights of Edgemont Village or the cozy enclave of Deep Cove, the scenery and amenities available make the City of North Vancouver a desirable place to live.
Richmond
Formerly a predominantly agricultural community, Richmond has grown in leaps and bounds and is now a busy, metropolitan city and has to be one of the best places in the Vancouver area to shop (note: Richmond is home to one of the two Ikeas located on the lower mainland). Don’t miss Steveston Village, a historic fishing village, for a taste of old world Richmond.
http://www.richmond.ca/home.htm
Sidney
Sidney has much to recommend it. Beautiful sea views, all the necessary amenities within a short distance, and the laid back environment that people expect of Vancouver Island. A popular retirement community, Sidney does has a good mix of housing for individuals and families of all stages. Quick access to the Schwartz Bay Ferry Terminal makes trips to the mainland a breeze while the Anacortes ferry is nearby should you wish to visit our neighbors to the south.
Abbotsford
Open, sprawling properties, family oriented neighborhoods, and all varieties of senior communities can be found in Abbotsford. The City of Abbotsford continues to grow and evolve in accordance with the changing population and business environment. While a large number of its residents do commute to Surrey, Burnaby, and Vancouver, recent expansion in the business community means that jobs in Abbotsford are plentiful.
http://www.abbotsford.ca/site4.aspx
Colwood
Arguably the fastest growing community in South Vancouver Island, the Westshore is an ideal community for families and young professionals alike. New housing developments such as Latoria Walk and Royal Bay offer upscale residences to suit any taste while popular attractions such as Hatley Castle, and Olympic View Golf Club offer opportunities for recreation and relaxation.
http://www.city.colwood.bc.ca/siteengine/activepage.asp?bhcp=1
Saanich
A large community, situated in South Vancouver Island, Saanich is a popular relocation destination for families for a good reason. Boasting several world class golf clubs, recreation centres, parks, and schools, Saanich is a thriving community in which you can find residences ranging from upscale condominiums to pastoral acreages. As Victoria’s business community has grown, many large companies have chosen to set up shop in Saanich inspiring the creation of several business communities, including the Vancouver Island Technology Park. High Tech has recently become Vancouver Island’s biggest industry and there has been an influx of eager IT professionals moving to Saanich to take advantage of the boom.
North Okanagan
Whether you are moving to Vernon, Armstrong, Enderby, Lumby, Spallumcheem, or Coldstream, North Okanagan offers a unique lifestyle to fit your needs. A desirable spot for those who are looking for something a little different from the fast pace of life on the Lower Mainland, all of these communities provide residents with a tranquil setting and feeling of community. Outdoor activities are abundant due to the close proximity of mountains, lakes, and streams while indoor recreation and shopping is well-planned for those cooler months.
Parksville
A two hour drive from Victoria and half an hour away from Nanaimo, Parksville holds an enviable position on Vancouver Island’s coastline. Spectacular views, miles of beaches, and old growth forests have long made it a favourite vacation spot and the burgeoning business community has given rise to a spectacular increase in residential properties, restaurants, resorts, and hotels. Although this area has traditionally been a relocation destination for retirees, the resurgence of industry is now attracting families who have always wished to move to Parksville.
http://www.city.parksville.bc.ca/
Qualicum Beach
Much like Parksville, Qualicum Beach exudes all the charm of a small seaside town while offering sophisticated dining and resort choices for those who are looking for a more sybaritic experience. Plenty of forested recreation areas make this a prime spot for those who love the outdoors. Once a haven for the retirement and vacationing set, Qualicum is now home to a growing community of families of all sizes.
Surrey
Sprawling through the middle of the Lower Mainland, many choose to move to Surrey for its easy commuting to downtown Vancouver as well as for the wide choice of housing that is available. Whether you are looking for a new home in Surrey or one that has stood the test of time, condominiums, townhouses, and single family dwellings come in a range of ages and styles to suit the most discerning buyer.
http://www.surrey.ca/default.htm
West Vancouver
Home to such attractions as Ambleside Park and Park Royal Mall, West Vancouver is known for its elegant neighborhoods (Caulfield, British Properties, Lions Bay) and its signature North Shore ambience. A highly desirable location due to its proximity to downtown Vancouver, the Lions Gate Bridge, the Horsehoe Bay Ferry, and the Highway to Whistler, those who choose to move to West Vancouver usually have a very well defined idea of the lifestyle that they wish to establish or continue. It’s hard to go wrong in West Vancouver with its generous park space, fine dining and shopping, and breathtaking views. While some opt for the water view properties, others prefer to have water access, providing them room for water vessels.
Coquitlam
If you are planning a move to Coquitlam, you are in good company. Having experienced explosive growth in the residential, retail, and business sectors, Coquitlam is home to a diverse assortment of families, professional couples, and singles. First class amenities, schools, hospitals, and shopping are all at your doorstep and the profusion of beautiful parks and forests allow you to enjoy nature in your own backyard.
http://www.coquitlam.ca/default.htm
Kelowna
Nestled in the Okanagan, Kelowna is often referred to as the business centre of the Okanagan as it is the largest city in the Okanagan. In addition to its traditional tree fruit industry, Kelowna’s other significant industries include light manufacturing, forestry, and a growing high tech sector. Once the getaway destination for Lower Mainland residents, Albertans, and Washingtonians, Kelowna still enjoys tourism, but has now also evolved into a popular place to live year round.
http://www.kelowna.ca/cm/PageFactory.aspx?SiteID=3
Langford
Langford, often referred to as The West Shore, is one of southern Vancouver Island’s fastest growing communities. The development of the prestigious Bear Mountain Resort awakened the interest of residential developers and big box stores resulting in the creation of a community that is both progressive and self contained. A very short commute to downtown Victoria combined with an efficient and evolving infrastructure makes Langford an ideal choice for those who are looking for a new home with room to grow.
http://www.district.langford.bc.ca/
Oak Bay
Let me take this opportunity to rip the “tweed curtain” aside and give those who are considering a move to Oak Bay the straight goods on what to expect. Fiercely proud of its heritage, Oak Bay maintains its traditions (Oak Bay Tea Party, Halloween Bonfire) and protects the integrity of its community. Many of its neighborhoods are close to the water and are predominantly comprised of older homes. Whether you prefer the elegant ambience of the Uplands or the funky charm of Gonzales, Oak Bay’s charm lies in its sense of continuity and community, exemplified in its village-like commercial areas and picturesque schools, churches, and firehall.
http://www.oakbaybc.org/municipalhall/mayor.html
Calgary
There is never a lack of things to do in the city of Calgary! If you are considering a move to Calgary you must check out the City of Calgary’s website for the most comprehensive information available regarding business, residential, and leisure opportunities and notices. Currently renowned for its economic boom, Calgary has something for everyone from the world famous Calgary Stampede to its impressive arts scene. Its vast landscape is home to a staggering number of communities and anyone contemplating a move to Calgary would do well to research which community would best serve them.
http://www.calgary.ca/portal/server.pt?
Edmonton
A haven for those who enjoy the arts, Edmonton is home to more than 40 festivals, including its well known Fringe Theatre Festival. A diverse selection of neighborhoods are available for your perusal if you are interested in moving to Edmonton. You may prefer the old world charm of Old Strathcona or the upscale tone of Glenora, however wherever you choose to live in Edmonton, you are never far from such attractions as the University of Alberta http://www.ualberta.ca/, the Francis Winspear Centre for Music, or the fun-for-everyone West Edmonton Mall.
http://www.edmonton.ca/portal/server.pt
Red Deer
Located between Calgary and Edmonton, Red Deer is a smaller community that has a lot to offer. Its population of 82,772 engages in a diverse number of industries that enhance the community’s economic growth and prosperity. Red Deer College is a popular draw for residents of all the surrounding communities as is the city’s own symphony orchestra.
http://www.reddeer.ca/default.htm
Lethbridge
Another one of Alberta’s tight knit communities, Lethbridge enjoys the reputation of being one of Canada’s sunniest and warmest cities. To further tempt you to move to Lethbridge, consider that it boasts high livability factors including relatively low housing prices, low commuter costs, and lower taxes than the national average. For those who like their fun with a little education twist, Lethbridge offers the Fort Whoop-Up Interpretive Centre and the Galt Museum.
http://www.lethbridge.ca/home/default.htm
Medicine Hat
Affectionately referred to as “the Hat”, Medicine Hat evokes the feeling of a frontier town and enjoys a small town feeling with cosmopolitan amenities. Many choose to move to Medicine Hat to take advantage of its low housing costs and tax rates, hoping to enjoy a lifestyle that actually includes time and energy for a life.
http://www.city.medicine-hat.ab.ca/
Wood Buffalo
How can you go wrong with a place called Wood Buffalo? Home to the oil sands and Lake Athabasca, the Northern Lights are perhaps its greatest attraction. Consisting of 10 small communities, Wood Buffalo offers a predominantly rural lifestyle. A population of just over 79,000 employs a workforce primarily in the agricultural, oil, and environmental industries.
Grande Prairie
Grand Prairie is another community that enjoys an abundance of natural resources that fuels its economy. Oil, natural gas, agriculture, and forestry industries employ the majority of its population of 50,227. Those moving to Grande Prairie enjoy the same lower taxes as other Alberta residents as well as the benefit of modest housing prices. Muskoseepi Park, Grande Prairie Museum, and Heritage Village all offer visitors a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Grande Prairie, making them must see attractions.
http://www.cityofgp.com/Default.htm
Lloydminster
Well known as “Canada’s Border City”, Lloydminster offers a bright and lively atmosphere that is inclusive and welcoming. A wide variety of attractions include museums petting zoos, numerous festivals and arts events, and of course, the world’s largest border markers. Ranking 4th in Canada for Small Business Creation, Lllodminster has been described as an economic hotspot, possibly due to its ideal location, straddling Alberta and Saskatchewan.
Canada
- B.C. Provincial Government Jobs
http://postings.gov.bc.ca/index.html - Canadian Government Jobs
http://www.jobs-emplois.gc.ca/menu/alljobs_e.htm - Jobs in Victoria, B.C.
http://working.canada.com/victoria/index.html - General Job Bank (Canada)
http://www.jobbank.gc.ca/Intro_en.aspx - HotJobs in Canada
http://ca.hotjobs.yahoo.com/ - Technology Jobs (B.C.)
http://www.bctechnology.com/submits/emp_login.html - Job Banks Specific to Alberta
http://www.alis.gov.ab.ca/employment/jobpostings/main.asp - IT Jobs
http://www.itjobs.com/
British Columbia
- British Columbia Real Estate Association
http://www.bcrea.bc.ca/about/about.htm - B.C. Northern Real Estate Board
http://boards.mls.ca/bcnreb/ - Chilliwack and District Real Estate Board
http://www.cadreb.com/ - Fraser Valley Real Estate Board
http://www.fvreb.bc.ca/ - Kamloops and District Real Estate Association
http://boards.mls.ca/kamloops/ - Kootenay Real Estate Board
http://www.kreb.ca/ - Okanagan Mainline Real Estate Board
http://www.omreb.com/ - RealtylinkOnline
http://www.realtylink.org/ - South Okanagan Real Estate Board
http://www.soreb.org/ - Vancouver Island Real Estate Board
http://www.vireb.com/ - Victoria Real Estate Board
http://www.vreb.org/
Alberta
- Alberta Real Estate Association
http://www.abrea.ab.ca/ - Calgary Real Estate Board
http://www.creb.com/ - Edmonton Real Estate Board
http://www.ereb.com - Fort McMurray Real Estate Board
http://www.fortmcmurrayrealestate.com - Grande Prairie Real Estate Board
http://www.gpreb.com - Lloydminster Real Estate Board
http://www.mls.ca/boards/lloydminster - Medicine Hat Real Estate Board
http://www.mls.ca/boards/medicinehat - North Eastern Alberta Real Estate Board
http://www.homesacrosscanada.com - Red Deer & District Real Estate Board
http://www.rdreb.ca
Mortgage Information/ Mortgage Brokers
- Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation
http://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/ - Mortgage Brokers Association of B.C.
http://www.mba.bc.ca/ - Alberta Mortgage Brokers Association
http://www.amba.ca/main/index.php
Canada
- Seniors Canada On-Line
http://www.seniors.gc.ca/ - Statistics Canada – A Portrait of Seniors in Canada
http://www.statcan.ca/english/ads/89-519-XPE/index.htm - Public Health Agency of Canada – The Division of Aging and Seniors
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/seniors-aines/ - Health Canada – Healthy Living_Seniors
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hl-vs/seniors-aines/index_e.html
British Columbia
- B.C. Ministry of Community Services - Seniors
http://www.cserv.gov.bc.ca/seniors/ - Ministry of Health - Active Aging in B.C.
http://www.health.gov.bc.ca/seniors/ - Vancouver Public Library Online – Seniors Page
http://www.vpl.ca/branches/Outreach/Seniors/Seniors.html - Seniors Housing Information Program
http://www.seniorshousing.bc.ca/default.asp - MySeniorSite – 55 and Better Lifestyle Portal
http://www.myseniorsite.ca/ - SeniorsVictoria.Com
http://www.seniorsvictoria.com/index.htm - Greater Victoria Seniors
http://www.greatervictoriaseniors.ca/
Alberta
- Alberta Seniors and Community Supports
http://www.seniors.gov.ab.ca/ - Alberta Seniors Games
http://www.2007albertaseniorsgames.com/ - Alberta Solicitor General and Public Security - Seniors
http://www.solgen.gov.ab.ca/tips/seniors.aspx
Retirement and Care Facilities
- SeniorResidences.Com – Senior Retirement Housing Directory (B.C.)
http://senioresidences.com/bclist.html - British Columbia Retirement Communities Association
http://www.bcrca.ca/ - SeniorResidences.Com – Senior Retirement Housing Directory (Alberta)
http://senioresidences.com/alberta.html - RetirementHomes.Com – Your Guide to Retirement Living
http://www.retirementhomes.com/North_America/Canada/Alberta/index.htm


