In the late 1800s, Fairview was named for its beautiful, unobstructed views. Today, that view has been enhanced by the gleaming “city of glass” skyscrapers of the downtown core, framed by ocean and mountains.
Location
The neighborhood is situated just south of downtown and the Granville bridge, and stretches from False Creek to 16th ave, with Burrard street to the west and Cambie to the east. Fairview is divided into a few smaller submarkets, namely Fairview Slopes (loosely defined as Broadway to 2nd Avenue), Fairview Heights, Burrard Slopes, and False Creek (on the water and near Granville Island).
Formerly an industrial area similar to False Creek, Fairview was rezoned in the 1970s and 80s for affordable low-rise apartments. Fairview is currently home to approximately 32,000 residents, many employed in medical centers around Vancouver General Hospital.
Desirability
Fairview is one of the most desirable markets in Vancouver, partly due to its proximity to the downtown core, but without the hustle and bustle. Getting downtown by bike takes about ten minutes, and there are 2 Skytrain stations close by – Olympic Village Station and Broadway – City Hall Station. The Canada Line connects downtown Vancouver to the Vancouver International Airport, while a drive to UBC takes only about 20 minutes.
Amenities And Entertainment
Some of the best restaurants and shopping in the city reside in Fairview. This includes Vij’s – one of the finest Indian restaurants in the world – and the Malaysian Banana Leaf. South Granville, which bisects Fairview, is famous for its antique and modern furniture stores, art galleries, and high-end fashion. There are also parks scattered throughout Fairview, including Charleson Park, Willow Park, and Choklit Park.
Granville Island is Fairview’s most famous landmark. Packed with art galleries, music and theatre festivals, and cultural events, it attracts 10 million visitors a year.
Fairview’s Future
Just as Fairview changed from a mostly industrial area to an affordable blue-collar neighborhood, it is early in the process of making yet another transformation. As land values continue to rise spectacularly, and as more people flood into Vancouver, the city has the mandate to increase density dramatically. I predict that Fairview will soon be an ultra-luxury, resort destination, similar to Yaletown or Olympic Village in False Creek but likely more futuristic and architecturally significant. Fairview ranks among my top BC real estate markets for offering both an incredible lifestyle and investment opportunity.
To discuss what this information means for you, feel free to contact me at any time.