Navdeep Basram

Scissor Stairs Made Small Lots Big Again !!!

In Vancouver’s small-scale development scene, one design shift is quietly opening new doors: scissor stairs.

They’re not just a clever design trick — they’re a layout unlock. Here's why developers and investors should care:

1. More Units on Smaller Lots
Scissor stairs allow two egress paths in the space of one stair core. That means:
Less space lost to circulation
More room for units
Narrow or awkwardly shaped lots may now support viable 4–6 unit builds

2. Better Net Sellable Area
More usable space per floor = stronger resale and better layouts.
More flexibility in design
Increased light and livability
Better ROI across units

3. Smaller Assemblies Now Feasible
On tight sites, stair cores can make or break a project. Scissor stairs enable:
Cleaner vertical circulation
Easier structural planning
Realistic feasibility before committing big design dollars

4. Design Flexibility = Market Alignment
Developers can finally prioritize what buyers actually want — like better room sizes, flow, and daylight — without cramming in inefficient corridors.

5. It Starts with Early Insight
Some sites dismissed before due to layout constraints? Now worth a second look.
Small code and policy updates often shift viability — if you know how to read them early.

I stay on top of these shifts so my clients don’t miss out. This is where design, feasibility, and strategy intersect.

📲 DM me if you want to review a tight site, reassess a tricky lot, or understand what’s actually buildable.

🚨 Bank of Canada Rate Watch! 🚨
The Bank of Canada announced on December 10, 2025, that they are holding the overnight rate steady at 2.25%. This decision is intended to keep inflation on target while the economy adjusts to the current period of global trade upheaval.
Key Takeaways:
• Outlook: The BoC expects underlying domestic demand to firm up in 2026, even though trade volatility remains a challenge.
• Inflation Alert: While headline CPI is expected near the 2% target, underlying core inflation is assessed closer to 2.5%. The underlying trend in inflation remains above the Bank’s 2 per cent target.
• Market Impact: Financial markets are now anticipating a rate hike in 2026! This shift has already pushed the 5-year bond yield dramatically up to over 3%. If this level holds, expect rising fixed mortgage rates that could further challenge Canada's already sluggish housing market in the new year 🏠📉. Policymakers are clearly acting with enhanced levels of caution!.