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        <title>Carly's Real Estate Blog! </title>
        <link>https://www.carlycarey.com/blog/</link>
        <description>Carly Carey shares her insights and adventures as a real estate agent and team leader on Vancouver Island. </description>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.carlycarey.com/blog/carlys-house.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.carlycarey.com/blog/carlys-house.html</link>
        <author>morgan@careyrealestategroup.com (Morgan Carey)</author>
        <title>Carly's House - One Realtors Cancer Journey Transforms Into Hope For Families</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Carly’s House — A Story of Purpose, Love, and Community


On January 1st, 2025—her birthday—my wife Carly became very sick, very fast while we were in Japan. Within a single day she was rushed to a hospital in Kyoto, where she required emergency surgery. Doctors removed a mass of tumors from her abdomen, and several suspicious lymph nodes. They were almost certain she had cancer.


She spent the next 14 days in that Kyoto hospital, drifting in and out of consciousness, often forgetting what she had been told. I never left her side. I stayed every possible minute of visiting hours, and I even snuck in when I wasn’t supposed to be there.


When she was clear-headed enough, I brought our 17-year-old daughter and her friend to see her. Carly had been thinking. With tears in her eyes, she shared two things she wanted:




She wanted our family to have dinner together every Sunday.


She wanted to give back more to the community.




Her real estate business had always been rooted in giving back, but this moment gave that promise a deeper meaning.


Less than a month later, the worst news imaginable was confirmed: Stage 4 Mantle Cell Lymphoma, a rare and aggressive cancer that is always fatal. We were devastated.


We continued searching for hope and she was eventually accepted into a promising clinical trial—until tragedy struck again. During a routine bone marrow biopsy before the trial, doctors discovered a second cancer: CLL. That disqualified her, and once again our world collapsed.





(Photo from the day we were disqualified from clinical trials)


Donate now


We are now parntered with the Nanaimo Hospital Foundation and you can donate at this link to help support this amazing project. 


Homes For Life — Carly’s Promise in Action


Carly needed purpose. She remembered her promise to give back, and asked me to help her do something meaningful. At the same time, the Nanaimo Hospital Foundation urgently needed to raise $2.9 million for a SPEC/CT machine—critical for early cancer detection.


A cruel coincidence: a machine like that might have helped save her.


So I created the Homes For Life initiative—aligning Carly’s real estate business and my real estate marketing company with a mission to support the hospital. Through social campaigns, in-person events, and community outreach, Homes For Life became one of the foundation’s most successful visibility and fundraising efforts.


More than 1,000 donations came in. Combined with the efforts of many other volunteers and fundraisers outside of our initiative, the full $2.9 million was raised. We did it 


Chemo, Survival, and a New Mission


While this was happening, Carly began heavy chemotherapy—two brutal protocols, DHAP and CHOP-R, alternating every three weeks. It destroyed her immune system. She lost her hair. She suffered temporary vision and hearing impairment. She endured migraines so severe she spent 12 hours in the ER at a time. And she faced countless other symptoms we won’t describe here out of dignity.


Through all of it, she stayed as positive as anyone possibly could.





(Our daughter Ariyah, made these. Carly would not start chemo without them)


Even though visitors aren’t allowed to stay during chemo treatments, the nurses took one look at us the moment we walked in and knew I wasn’t going anywhere. I stayed by her side through every round — every needle, every crash, every tiny victory — right up until she finished the heavy chemo in September 2025. And now, after everything she’s fought through, we’re finally at a place where she only needs treatment every three months instead of every three weeks. It’s not the end of the journey, but it’s a blessing we don’t take for granted.


Donate now


We are now parntered with the Nanaimo Hospital Foundation and you can donate at this link to help support this amazing project. 


A Home With a Purpose


During this time, I often walked with my close friend of nearly 30 years, Jeff Pady. His family was preparing to sell their home. When I saw it—wheelchair accessible, practical, and already configured for someone in care—an idea formed.


I bought the home privately for exactly what a local Realtor had suggested. But the real purpose was much bigger than the purchase.


As we drove to chemo, Carly and I often talked about how lucky we were to live just 15 minutes from the hospital. We could go home after treatment. Rest in our own bed. Be with our family.


Not everyone had that.


We met patients who drove hours each way for treatment. Patients staying in hotel rooms alone, walking through lobbies while violently sick. Patients separated from loved ones. People suffering without privacy, comfort, or dignity.


So the idea became clear:


What if we donated this home as a safe, private, dignified place for out-of-town cancer patients to stay during treatment?


We decided to call it Carly’s House.


The Hospital Foundation and the City


My first call was to Barney, the CEO of the Nanaimo Hospital Foundation, who had become a friend during the SPEC/CT campaign. He loved the idea and even suggested expanding it to expectant mothers facing similar out-of-town challenges.


Next, I met with the City of Nanaimo. Fortunately, the home has the correct zoning and no licensing red flags. Carly’s House can move forward.


What Carly’s House Needs


We’ve invested over $500,000 of our own money into purchasing and preparing the home. It’s freshly painted and has a newer heat pump, but it’s an older home and needs help:




New windows (current ones are old single-pane, causing condensation and drafts)


Bathroom renovation (accessible but outdated)


Updated flooring (ideally waterproof laminate for easy cleaning)


New appliances (the existing ones are very old)




Dream upgrades that would transform the home—if we can find community support—include:




Full exterior renovation


Modern siding and a new building envelope


A welcoming front porch seating area


A bathroom added to each upstairs bedroom (hugely beneficial for chemo patients)







(Carly excited for this newly painted kitchen. Imagine family breakfast before treatment here.)


How the Community Can Help


We are reaching out to contractors, tradespeople, window companies, plumbers, appliance retailers, furniture companies, and community members who want to support something meaningful. Donations of materials, labour, discounted services, or furnishings would make a tremendous impact.


Every bit helps.


We are committed—financially, emotionally, and personally. I will honour my wife while she is alive and help her fulfill the purpose she knows she was put on this earth for.


Carly’s House is going to happen. And with the support of the community, it can become everything it deserves to be.


This is the beginning of something meaningful. This is our ask for help. This is Carly’s House.


Donate now


We are now parntered with the Nanaimo Hospital Foundation and you can donate at this link to help support this amazing project. 




How You Can Reach Out


If any part of our story has resonated with you and you’d like to connect, support, or even just send a few kind words, we’d be truly grateful.


You can find me here:




Facebook:  facebook.com/morgandavidcarey 


Instagram:  @morgancarey 


Contact form on our real estate site:  carlycarey.com/contact 




If you prefer email, you can reach me at morgan @ rew.com (just remove the spaces when you use it). And you can text me at 250-668-7364 


Whether you want to share your own story, ask a question, get involved, or simply let us know you’re thinking of Carly, it all matters more than you know. ❤️
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 25 Nov 2025 07:44:00 -0800</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.carlycarey.com/blog/joining-a-team-vs-going-solo.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.carlycarey.com/blog/joining-a-team-vs-going-solo.html</link>
        <author>morgan@careyrealestategroup.com (Morgan Carey)</author>
        <title>Joining a team vs going solo - Realtor Math (a must read for agents) </title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
By Morgan Carey, COO – Carey Real Estate Group


The Myth of “Keeping More”


Vancouver Island Realtors®... Be honest... If you could already be making $100k, 200k or even 300k with the amount of time, expertise, money, and skill you have, you’d already be doing it. 


The solo model looks attractive because of the splits —example 75/25 until you cap at $20k, then just a few hundred dollars per deal for transaction fees + plus a monthly brokerage fee. But those numbers only tell half the story. They don’t show the hours lost juggling marketing, admin, compliance, content creation, and coordination — all the work that doesn’t directly generate revenue but absolutely eats your time.


When you join a team, you remove most of those distractions and focus on what matters most: prospecting, client relationships, and negotiation. The team covers the rest — listings support, marketing, transaction coordination, and brand visibility. The result is higher net income and faster growth, even with team splits.


Team Support = Predictability


Solo agents often live deal to deal. There’s little leverage and burnout happens fast.


On a team, systems, accountability, and shared resources create predictable performance:




Consistent lead flow


Automated, professional marketing


Transaction support and QA


Proven processes you can plug into




That consistency lets you plan, forecast, and build a sustainable business — not just react to the next crisis.


Shared Risk and Marketing Investment


On the listing side, the team takes the financial risk. Professional photos, video, floor plans, signage, digital ads, open house marketing — all paid upfront by the team.




If the listing doesn’t sell, you don’t lose a dollar.


If it does sell, you share in the reward.




That’s why the listing split favor the team — the team carries the risk, expense, and workload. You focus on servicing your client.


Skill Acceleration Through Collaboration


Top producers don’t grow in isolation. They grow through collaboration — learning from people who are already doing more deals, faster, and with higher margins.




Proven systems, scripts, and strategies


Shadow opportunities and real-time feedback


Accountability frameworks that raise your game




You learn faster, perform better, and reach mastery sooner.


Freedom Through Focus


Joining a team doesn’t mean giving up independence — it means gaining freedom.




Freedom from marketing headaches


Freedom from admin bottlenecks


Freedom from income rollercoasters




By narrowing your focus to building relationships and closing deals, you create more income in less time — supported by a structure built for growth.


The Net Reality


The only number that truly matters at year end is net income in your bank account — not the theoretical gross commission on your split sheet.


Many solo agents struggle to cross six figures because they spend their time managing the business instead of growing it. Team agents often double or triple their net because they’re laser-focused on high-value activities and backed by a team that multiplies their efforts.


Let’s Talk Real Numbers


On our team, the average agent earns about $6,000 per deal after splits (factoring both listings and buyer sides).






Deals Closed

Approx. Annual Income (After Splits)






1 deal/month (12 deals)


$72,000+




2 deals/month (24 deals)


$144,000+




3 deals/month (36 deals)


$216,000+




4 deals/month (48 deals)


$288,000+




5 deals/month (60 deals)


$360,000+




6 deals/month (72 deals)


$400,000+






Most new team agents earn around $72,000 in their first year (but we can help you earn more), while experienced, high performers can exceed $400,000 — without spending a dollar on marketing, photography, videography, signage, or admin. That’s leverage.


The Balance Point


Quality of life matters.




~1 deal/month: You’re likely not putting in enough focused effort to make real estate a full-time profession. Work ethic and lead gen habits need to level up.


2–4 deals/month: The sweet spot for most full-time agents — healthy income, strong momentum, and time for family, health, and personal life.


5–6 deals/month: Elite output. You’re in rare company with an uncommon drive. Expect to work more than most would want — and be rewarded accordingly.




A team environment lets you choose your balance — without sacrificing systems, marketing, or growth.


What Life on the Team Really Looks Like


Years 1–2: The Growth Stage


When you first join, your focus is growth. Most of your business comes from our team database, inbound leads, and active prospecting — networking events, open houses, community outreach, door-knocking, and calling through our warm database. You’ll learn to communicate effectively, build relationships, and convert opportunities.


Years 3–5: The Relationship Stage


As experience builds and you’re closing three to four deals per month, your business shifts. You start seeing repeat clients and referrals. People already know, like, and trust you. You rely less on cold prospecting and more on reputation, service, and relationships — this is where balance begins.


5+ Years: The Mastery Stage


For the truly seasoned agents, prospecting becomes the smallest part of your day. Most of your business comes from your sphere, referrals, and repeat clients, so you spend time doing what you love: helping great people buy and sell homes — not chasing the next lead.


Important: If you don’t treat real estate like a full-time career — if you’re inconsistent or lack the work ethic to follow through — you won’t progress to the next tier. Each stage builds on the last.


Join a Team That Amplifies You


The best agents aren’t looking for a handout — they’re looking for an edge. Success isn’t about working harder; it’s about working smarter within a structure that multiplies your impact.


At Carey Real Estate Group, we’ve invested in world-class marketing, lead generation, admin systems, and brand positioning so our agents can focus 100 on performance. You bring ambition, professionalism, and a willingness to grow — we provide the platform, mentorship, and momentum.


Our goal is simple: help talented agents become unstoppable. Surrounded by excellence, accountability, and a shared vision, you don’t just close more deals — you level up as a professional and as a person.


Ready to stop doing it all alone and start building something bigger?


Join Carey Real Estate Group — where top performers come to get better.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 11 Nov 2025 21:06:00 -0800</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://www.carlycarey.com/blog/21-in-wealth-one-nanaimo-4-plex.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.carlycarey.com/blog/21-in-wealth-one-nanaimo-4-plex.html</link>
        <author>morgan@careyrealestategroup.com (Morgan Carey)</author>
        <title>$2.1 In Wealth - One Nanaimo 4 Plex (Real Estate Investing Matters)</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
If you're thinking of investing in Nanaimo Real Estate, who you choose as your Realtor® matters. Having an experienced real estate team that has &quot;done it&quot; and developed proven methods for investing (and re-investing) in real estate over time is critical to long term success and wealth creation. Our family investing arm is called Carey Real Estate Holdings, and it is a separate business to our real estate sales business. It is where we invest the profits from our main businesses and re-invest the profits from our real estate portfolio. To date we have created a residential and commercial real estate portfolio with an estimated value over $20,000,000 (yes 20+ million dollars). And we've learned a thing or two along the way. For our potential investor clients, we'd like to share this case study with you, using real numbers and a real property, so you can understand the value a smart investor (like yourself) can achieve with the right &quot;experienced&quot; guidance. 


How Our 4-Plex Created Over $1.1 Million in Wealth (So far)


One of the best ways to inspire confidence in real estate investing is to show real numbers. Today, I want to share the actual performance of one of our investment properties: 584 Bradley Street, a fourplex we purchased in December 2011.


This is not theory. These are real stats, audited by time, and they tell the story of how powerful buy-and-hold real estate can be.





The Numbers: 13.7 Years in Review




Purchase Price (with improvements): $486,054


Purchase Date: December 2011 (164 months ago)


June 2025 YE Revenue: $69,787


June 2025 YE Net (after expenses, before taxes): $51,111


Lifetime Revenue: $695,210


Estimated Lifetime Net: $525,407




Current Value


Using today’s conservative cap rates of 4–5, the current value sits between $1,022,220 – $1,277,775, averaging about $1,150,000.


That means we’ve realized a net value gain of $663,946, or about $48,463 per year in appreciation.


The Real Return


When we combine the property’s average annual net income ($51,111) with its average annual value gain ($48,463), this one fourplex has been generating the equivalent of $99,574 per year.


That’s effectively a 20 annual return on the original investment—without even factoring in compounding or tax benefits.


The Big Picture




Lifetime net income: $525,407


Net value gain: $663,946


Total net wealth created: $1,189,353




And that’s after paying back the original purchase price.


Looking Ahead: The Next 10 Years


If performance continues at the same pace, here’s what another decade could look like:




Additional net income: $511,110


Additional value gain: $484,630


Total additional wealth: $995,740




That would bring the property’s total lifetime wealth creation to over $2.1 million by 2035—from a single fourplex.


Why This Matters for You


This case study proves that real estate, when purchased intelligently and held with discipline, can quietly and consistently build wealth.


Imagine if you had purchased not just one, but two, three, or four properties back in 2011. The numbers compound, and so does the wealth.


The takeaway is simple:




Real estate works.


Time in the market matters.


Even “just one” property can change your financial future.




So if you already own investment real estate, consider expanding. The best time to buy was yesterday—the second-best time is today.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Sat, 13 Sep 2025 13:59:00 -0700</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.carlycarey.com/blog/beautiful-uvic-condo-for-female-student.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.carlycarey.com/blog/beautiful-uvic-condo-for-female-student.html</link>
        <author>morgan@careyrealestategroup.com (Morgan Carey)</author>
        <title>Beautiful UVIC Condo for female student </title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Looking for a Kind, Quiet Female UVic Student to Share a Beautiful 2-Bedroom Condo


Location: Tuscany Village – 1642 McKenzie AvenueBedrooms: 2 |  Bathrooms: 2 |  Size: 900 Sq FtRent: $1,600 Includes Utilities 




If you're a kind, respectful, and easygoing female UVic student looking for the perfect mix of comfort, convenience, and community — this may be the ideal home for you




About the Condo




Immaculate top-floor, corner unit with mountain views and large skylights


2 large bedrooms on opposite sides of the suite for maximum privacy


Your bedroom has brand-new flooring and your own full bathroom


Spacious kitchen with raised bar, dishwasher, garburator, fridge, stove, and ample storage


Fireplace and built-in wall safe


In-suite laundry – no shared machines or extra cost


Secure underground parking and 24-hour building surveillance


Bike storage and easy access to UVic (3 min drive / 6 min bike / 16 min walk)







Prime Location &amp; Amenities


This condo is located in Tuscany Village, one of the most student-friendly communities in Victoria. You'll have:




Direct underground access to Thrifty Foods (no need to go outside)


Nearby restaurants, nail spa, tutoring center, and banking services


Across the street from Starbucks, Fairway Market, Home Depot &amp; more


Safe, quiet side of the building – great for studying and relaxing







Student Housing Requirements




You must be a female UVic student


No smoking, vaping, or drug use (low/no alcohol preferred)


No pets


One person per room (no couples or shared rooms)


No guests after 11 PM, Sunday through Thursday







Meet Your Roommate


You’ll be living with an 18-year-old first-year BA Psychology student at UVic. She’s:




A quiet, artistic “old soul” who loves crocheting, gem painting, and creative projects


Into reading (books, webtoons), Dungeons &amp; Dragons, and bookstore browsing


Friendly, humble, and values a calm, respectful home environment







Interested?


If this sounds like a great fit for you, please send us a message introducing yourself and telling us why you'd make a great roommate. Viewings available by appointment.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 04 Jun 2025 10:29:00 -0700</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.carlycarey.com/blog/the-culinary-delights-of-small-town-cedar.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.carlycarey.com/blog/the-culinary-delights-of-small-town-cedar.html</link>
        <author>morgan@careyrealestategroup.com (Morgan Carey)</author>
        <title>The Culinary Delights of Small-Town Cedar</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
The village of Cedar is a small community south of Nanaimo, known for its natural beauty and semi-rural designation. Despite its size, this area has a lot to offer, from outdoor recreation to restaurants and entertainment—and so much more.


New listing alert Check out this luxury Cedar home Before you keep reading, you NEED to see this new listing on Kurtis Cres





Cedar offers a selection of excellent dining options for a casual excursion or a more upscale experience. All of the following are located in and around the center of Cedar, and each offer something a little bit different


 





Mahle House


2104 Hemer Road, Nanaimo


Mahle House is a fine dining restaurant in Cedar’s downtown area established in 1983. Set within a refurbished historic house, this restaurant is considered a longstanding gem of the area with its charming, fairy-tale-like atmosphere—including wood tables, a beautiful garden, and an outdoor patio area.


Proudly family-owned and operated, Mahle House sources ingredients from local vendors. They also offer “Adventurous Wednesdays” which features a surprise, chef-curated, five-course menu. If mentioned in advance, dietary restrictions can be accommodated.


Mahle House recommends that interested diners make a reservation.


Website: mahlehouse.ca


Phone number: (250) 722-3621


Directions (from Cedar, the intersection of Holden Corso Road and McMillan Road): Continue south down McMillan Road, and then turn left onto Cedar Road. Drive south for 1 kilometre until reaching Hemer Road. Mahle House is right on the corner, on the left-hand side.


 





 


Crow &amp; Gate Pub


2313 Yellow Point Road, Nanaimo


About 8 minutes south of the center of Cedar, off of Yellow Point Road, is a cozy pub in a Tudor-style building. Crow &amp; Gate Pub first opened its doors in 1972 and has been proudly serving the community since. On the inside, the pub serves delicious comfort food, with a particular focus on traditional English cuisine. And, of course, they have a selection of cold beers on tap—plus wines, coffees, and tea.


Crow &amp; Gate is popular for its ambiance: its brick and wood finishes and its roaring fireplace, all set in what guests have come to know as a welcoming countryside tavern atmosphere. On the outside is a lush garden with outdoor seating, for those warmer nights and get-togethers with friends.


Crow &amp; Gate Pub does not take reservations, nor do they host special events.


Website: crowandgate.ca


Phone number: (250) 722-3731


Directions (from Cedar, the intersection of Holden Corso Road and McMillan Road): Continue south down McMillan Road, and then turn left onto Cedar Road. Drive south for about 2 kilometres, then make the sharp left onto Yellow Point Road, just after Woobank Road. Continue south for another 1.5 kilometres. The Crow &amp; Gate Pub is on the right.


 





 


Wheatsheaf Pub


1866 Cedar Road, Nanaimo


Wheatsheaf Pub is located in the center of Cedar, and is connected to the Wheatsheaf Liquor Store. Known colloquially as “The Wheaty”, this pub is also a historic landmark in the community, and features a classic pub interior, including half booth seating, and a wood stove.


When it comes to food, the Wheatsheaf Pub offers pub staples, including burgers, wings, pizza, and their famed pierogies. Patrons are also invited to enjoy the patio, which is heated and dog-friendly, as well as the pool table, which is a central feature of the establishment.


The Wheatsheaf Pub hosts a wide variety of events, such as karaoke nights.


Website: wheatsheafpub.ca


Phone number: (250) 722-3141


Directions (from Cedar, the intersection of Holden Corso Road and McMillan Road): Continue south down McMillan Road, and then turn left onto Cedar Road. Drive south for about 1 kilometre. The Wheaty will be on the left, right after Village Drive.


 


Cedar Farmers’ Market


1984 Woobank Road, Nanaimo


As an alternative to dining out, Cedar has a much-beloved Farmers’ Market, which operates every Sunday, from 10am to 2pm, between the months of May and October. Here, residents and visitors alike can browse the vast selection of handmade goods from local artisans, artworks, fresh produce, and delicious food.


The Cedar Farmers’ Market has been part of the community since 1996, and is focused on fostering a great community, supporting new and small businesses, and giving back. The market also offers early access for seniors and those with accessibility and/or mobility challenges.


Website: cedarfarmersmarket.org


Phone number: (250) 618-3565


Directions (from Cedar, the intersection of Holden Corso Road and McMillan Road): Continue east down Holden Corso Road, then turn right onto Woobank Road. Continue south for about 1.5 kilometres, and then turn left onto Morland Road. The Cedar Farmers' Market has its temporary location in the field, just behind Woodbank Primary School.


Discover even more Cedar highlights by getting in touch with the Carly Carey Real Estate Team.


 

 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 04 Feb 2025 08:41:00 -0800</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.carlycarey.com/blog/outdoor-activities-in-cedar-bc-parks.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.carlycarey.com/blog/outdoor-activities-in-cedar-bc-parks.html</link>
        <author>morgan@careyrealestategroup.com (Morgan Carey)</author>
        <title>Outdoor Activities in Cedar, BC Parks</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Cedar is a beautiful, scenic community located less than 20 minutes south of the city of Nanaimo. Known as a tranquil area, residents of Cedar enjoy its more relaxed and easygoing nature, as this part of Central Vancouver Island is also recognized for its many parks and green spaces.


Whether you're interested in taking a spontaneous trip to see the water or planning a longer hike with the family, Cedar offers a variety of outdoor activities for those of all ages. Here are some of our favourites here at the Carly Carey Real Estate Team. 


New listing alert Check out this luxury Cedar home Before you keep reading, you NEED to see this new listing on Kurtis Cres





The Cable Bay Trail


A favourite of area residents, the Cable Bay Trailhead is found about seven minutes from the center of Cedar, in the northern end of the community. It is accessed via Nicola Road, which has a small, gravel area for visitor parking. 


This trail is among the top forested trails in this part of the island—and for good reason At about two kilometres in length (but nearing five round-trip), this trail winds through the lush forest, leading upwards to the coast. It offers views of the harbour and nearby islands—famed Gabriola Island in particular—as well as a scenic point overlooking Dodds Narrows through Joan Point Park. 


The Cable Bay Trail is so highly-rated because of its opportunities to see wildlife, which includes sea lions, owls, and even whales—if you’re there at the right time and you’re very patient


Trail difficulty: Easy to Moderate (some uphill and rocky portions)


 





 


Roberts Memorial Park


On the opposite end of Cedar is Roberts Memorial Park—a 12-minute drive south of the community. This park, which is the smallest of all of the parks on this list, leads right down to the coast, and features a one kilometer walking trail through an old-growth forest. 


Though the beach itself is quite rocky (it features ancient sandstone ledges that the park is famed for) the view is spectacular: clear ocean views with the Gulf Islands in the distance. This area is great for a family picnic but many find their way here for the wildlife. Roberts Memorial Park is a popular hangout spot for marine life—specifically sea lions


Trail difficulty: Easy


 





Hemer Provincial Park


Centrally-located in the heart of Cedar, about six minutes from the Duke Point Highway, Hemer Provincial Park is considered a hidden gem—at least to those who aren’t locals. This park sits on Holden Lake and, with a small parking area at the end of Hemer Road, is about two hundred and seventy acres in size.


Hemer Provincial park is a haven for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts, and offers an extensive trail system (11 kilometres total) that weaves through forest and marshlands. Those who visit have the chance to see beavers, bald eagles, and numerous other species of birds.


The park also is known for horseback riding, fishing, and canoeing.


Trail difficulty: Easy


 





WildPlay Nanaimo


Though not a regional or provincial park, WildPlay Nanaimo is a point of interest for those who love the outdoors Found about eight minutes southwest of the center of Cedar, WildPlay is the Nanaimo area’s premier adventure playground.


Great for the kids and for adults, the main attraction of this amusement park is the bungee jumping, treetop courses, and zip lines, which take participants over the Nanaimo River. WildPlay Nanaimo offers special events and summer adventure camps.


And just as a tip, the cables on the treetop courses can be harsh on your hands, especially on the advanced courses. Bring a pair of gloves—you’ll be thankful you did
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 04 Feb 2025 08:40:00 -0800</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://www.carlycarey.com/blog/meet-morgan-carey-coo-carly-carey-real-estate-team.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.carlycarey.com/blog/meet-morgan-carey-coo-carly-carey-real-estate-team.html</link>
        <author>morgan@careyrealestategroup.com (Morgan Carey)</author>
        <title>Meet Morgan Carey, COO, Carly Carey Real Estate Team</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Meet Morgan Carey, COO, Carly Carey Real Estate Team


Hey there Nanaimo and area Realtors® nice to meet you I'm Morgan :) 





Many of you may already know my awesome wife, Carly Carey, the owner and leader of the Carly Carey Real Estate Team, a new and dynamic team here in Nanaimo.


For those who don’t know me yet, I wanted to take this opportunity to introduce myself. What I bring to the table for our team members is quite unique in our market, and I believe it can make a substantial difference to your career.


To be upfront, my goal is to help you make the decision to join our team at eXp Realty in Nanaimo. By doing so, you’ll not only significantly improve your skills as a salesperson but also generate a substantial and consistent income for your family—all while eliminating the financial and mental burdens of running a business on your own.


More money, less stress - it’s what we all want. Right?


A Bit About Me and Why That Matters for You And Your Business


For the past 20+ years, I’ve been the CEO of Real Estate Webmasters Inc. (REW), the world’s largest custom real estate marketing company. In my time leading REW, I’ve had the privilege of working with and helping build some of the biggest names in real estate. You may have heard of a few of them:




Barbara Corcoran from Shark Tank


Mauricio Umanski from The Agency


Fredrik Eklund from Million Dollar Listing New York


Gary Ashton, the 1 RE/MAX Team in the world


Justin Havre, the 1 eXp Realty Team globally




With my background in SEO, paid lead generation, custom software development, and web performance optimization, I’ve helped these agents, teams, and brokerages scale to incredible heights. Now, I’m bringing that expertise and those resources right here to Nanaimo—and more importantly, to you.


My Accomplishments – Why I’m Qualified to Lead This Team


Over my career, I’ve been fortunate to receive multiple accolades that reflect the depth of my experience and success in business:




3-time Entrepreneur of the Year finalist in Canada


10-time Profit 500 recipient (awarded to the fastest-growing companies in Canada)


Top 30 Under 30 and Top 40 Under 40 award recipient


RIS Media Newsmaker in the Trailblazer category


Inman Innovator/Marketing All-Star Award winner


International Networker of the Year from LuxuryRealEstate.com


Largest deal ever accepted on CBC’s Dragons' Den $40M Valuation (Canada’s version of Shark Tank)


I’ve been named one of the 200 most powerful people in residential real estate for the past decade


My companies have generated over $275 million in revenue




These accomplishments are a testament to the strategies and leadership I bring to the Carly Carey Real Estate Team. When you work with me, you’re learning from someone who has been at the top of the industry—both locally and globally.


Local Expertise and Achievements


In addition to my global experience, I’m also deeply rooted here in Nanaimo. My real estate development company, Carey Real Estate Holdings, has won two consecutive Building of the Year awards for projects like 10 Church St (the Hullo Ferries building) and 223 Commercial St (the REW Building, where our current offices are located). I also hold a significant portfolio of residential real estate in the area.


We are passionate about our community and give back in major ways, such as being the largest donor for Volunteer Nanaimo’s Christmas Angels program and contributing significantly to the Nanaimo Hospital Foundation, Boys and Girls Club, and many other charitable organizations.


Why Our Team? What You Get When You Join Us


Unmatched Training and Mentorship


I’ve trained many of the top-performing agents in Nanaimo—agents who have gone on to become 1 in their fields after learning under my guidance. With me, you’ll receive:




Weekly training on CRM best practices and conversion optimization


One-on-one sales coaching focused on improving your conversion rates and handling objections


Strategic planning sessions to ensure your business grows sustainably and successfully


Leadership development through our “Beyond Real Estate” group, where we focus on personal and professional growth




Marketing and Lead Generation at No Cost to You


With our team, you don’t have to worry about marketing. We handle everything—from website management and SEO to paid advertising (PPC) and social media strategy. This means you get a steady flow of qualified leads without the stress or expense of running your own campaigns. You focus on selling, we take care of the rest.


Access to Global Networks


My role as a global speaker and ambassador takes me around the world, attending conferences for major real estate brands. This means that you, as part of our team, benefit from my network, which includes the top CEOs and agents globally. I’m connected with the decision-makers at every major real estate brand, which means unparalleled opportunities and insight for you.


Unlimited Resources to Help You Succeed


As co-owner of REW, our team has virtually unlimited marketing, technology, and support resources. Unlike other teams, we are never limited by budget or access to cutting-edge tools. This allows us to scale your business faster and more efficiently than any other team on Vancouver Island.


No Financial Risk for Agents


One of the key benefits of joining our team is that we shoulder the financial risk. Many agents are burdened by the costs of running their own marketing, but with us, you don’t pay out of pocket for these efforts. Our goal is simple: to help you make more money by focusing on selling while we handle all the backend operations.


Why You Should Join Us


By joining the Carly Carey Real Estate Team, you’ll get the opportunity to learn directly from me—someone who has trained and employed many of Nanaimo’s top agents. You’ll gain access to my extensive network of global real estate leaders, and more importantly, you’ll have the resources and support you need to earn more money while avoiding the risks and expenses of going it alone.


With our industry-leading training, marketing power, and global connections, you’ll not only increase your income after commission splits, but you’ll also experience more freedom to focus on what you do best: selling.


Our goal is to become the 1 team on Vancouver Island, and I would love for you to be a part of that journey. If you’re ready to take your career to the next level, let’s have a conversation.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 26 Sep 2024 07:48:00 -0700</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://www.carlycarey.com/blog/must-love-dogs-a-real-estate-assistant-ad.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.carlycarey.com/blog/must-love-dogs-a-real-estate-assistant-ad.html</link>
        <author>morgan@careyrealestategroup.com (Morgan Carey)</author>
        <title>Must Love Dogs A Real Estate Assistant Ad</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Hey there future real estate assistant superstar 


I’m Carly Carey, and I’m a Realtor® here in Nanaimo. (And I’m fun) Let’s start with that :) 





Recently I launched the Carly Carey Real Estate and we’ve started hiring agents. My daughter Jayda was the first to join and we’re looking to grow by another 3 or 4 agents. 





(Our newest member Jayda, and my grand puppy Sophie) 


Let’s start with how it’s going… We’re kicking ass (And we’re having a LOT of fun).


We are REALLY good at marketing, lead generation, helping clients find homes… all the things.


We’re good at it because we love it. 


But we’re also starting to get busy. 


We have big plans, there is so much to do.  We need some help. 


Our coaches (we have several awesome ones) tell us that the first thing we need to do is hire an assistant. So that’s what we’re going to do. 


But instead of a boring “help wanted” ad, I’m making this post instead.


I’m just going to tell you where we’re at, and if you like what you hear, then reach out. Simple 


&lt;--


Structure: (where we're going with this)


Right now there are 3 of us: 2 Realtors® Myself Carly, I focus on luxury listings, Jayda Mclauchlin who is our buyers specialist and my husband Morgan Carey who runs our marketing and is the business end (boring math stuff, spreadsheets, software blah blah blah) 


Strengths and weaknesses: 


Me? My strengths are client care and negotiating. I love spending time with my clients making sure they get exactly what they need. I focus on low volume, high touch. It’s how I roll Weaknesses, I don’t love all the day-to-day organizational stuff. Love coaching, yes Client care? awesome But financials, spreadsheets, calendars? blegh


I can do it if I have to. But I’ll do anything I can to make someone else (ahem my marketing manager) do all that stuff for me. I can also be a bit indecisive at times. 


Jayda? She’s is a beast when it comes to lead follow-up She is extremely driven, smart, ambitious and she loves to fight for her clients. She loves to win The only weakness she has, is that as a newer Realtor®, so she’s not as experienced when it comes to the nitty gritty of editing, contract review, that sort of thing. But that’s why we have a leader and support from our brokerage. 


Morgan? He’s the marketing guy He makes sure we have all the leads we could ever need, and with his team at Real Estate Webmasters behind us, we absolutely DOMINATE the internet


You may have seen REW on Dragons Den season 9 (to this day still the largest deal in Dragons Den history).






Weaknesses? Hah We’re married That’s not fair (let me get my list) 


Seriously though, he’s been a CEO for a long time, and thus doesn’t always have the patience for individual contributors. Great marketing and tech coach .... (Not patient) &lt; But don’t worry, you work for me, not him I love being patient and supportive so all good I will also kick his butt if he’s mean to you. 


Why do you want this job? 


I’ll pay you Cold hard cash (just kidding, you’ll get a cheque or direct deposition or something) but I’ll pay you 


You will learn A LOT I'm a very experienced realtor®, we have the top coaches in the world, our agents are hired with a mentor mindset and my husband is one of our countries most successful entrepreneurs. 


Flexibility: While we will want some core hours fulfilled (and you need to be available for business hours, not nights, etc), full/part-time is flexible. 


Fun We do crazy marketing video shoots, we attend fundraisers, and our office environment is super friendly. It’s a work hard play hard situation. 


What do you have to do? 


Lot’s of different things (and it may change day to day) but here’s a list:


Client care stuff: This is THE MOST important thing 


If myself or one of our agents need help providing amazing support for our clients, that is what you will focus on.


Client Carey task examples: 




Making sure paperwork is done


Running keys for a showing


Printing / delivering open house flyers 


Booking inspections or other vendors


Getting estimates from contractors




Marketing: Where you will learn the most (and build high-value skills)


What is unique about the Carly Carey Real Estate is that we also own Real Estate Webmasters, the world's largest custom marketing and technology company specific to real estate. Because of this we do internet marketing and platform enhancement at a MUCH higher level than any other Realtor on Vancouver Island. 


By taking this job, you will interact with these teams and have the opportunity to observe and contribute to some extremely unique and meaningful projects. Some of which become features that are used by the best teams around the globe 


Some examples of marketing tasks: 




Co-ordinating marketing and real estate for photo / vidoe shoots


Processing / Optimizing photos


Posting to various social media platforms &amp; Youtube 


Doing research for marketing projects (like our new building directory) 


Coordinating replies to inbound inquiries


Working with press / various marketing partners (such as Luxury Real Estate)


Organizing and distributing inbound lead flow from organic and paid lead channels. 




Other assistant duties as required: 


There will certainly be a component of more traditional assistant duties such as:




Managing calendars


Taking calls / responding to team emails 


Following up with local vendors 


Picking up things (printing, open house signs, the team meeting lunch order from Delicados)


Insert whatever it takes here. 




When it comes to this role and how everyone should approach tasks, we must have no ego 


Everything is important, and from time to time in real estate, we all do things outside of core competencies or “typical duties”.


If I need to run to grab the lunch order for the team because everyone is busy, or I see the office bathroom is out of toilet paper, I’m taking care of those things. My assistant needs to have that same “get it done” attitude. (And be happy to do it). 



Sound like fun? Want the job? 


Here's how you can contact me: 




MY website: Carlycarey.com


Instagram 


Facebook




Send a resume, make a video - do what you think you should to earn the job. 


Looking forward to speaking soon 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 11 Apr 2024 07:33:00 -0700</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.carlycarey.com/blog/the-new-carlycareycom-is-live.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.carlycarey.com/blog/the-new-carlycareycom-is-live.html</link>
        <author>morgan@careyrealestategroup.com (Morgan Carey)</author>
        <title>The Carly Carey Real Estate website is live A new brand for Vancouver Island's hottest new team </title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
The new carlycarey.com is now live 


And just in time too Carly Carey (Realtor®) is now Carly Carey Real Estate 


I am so excited to announce that not only has Jayda Mclauchlin joined our team, but we've also launched our new brand and new website






What I am most excited about for this new website




New MLS Search features (search for any home on Vancouver Island) Including a special waterfront search option. 


Sold Home Search Curious about what a home sold for? Maybe your neighbor just sold? Check it the sales history 


Property Valuation Tool: Curious what the current value of your home is? (You never know it might be worth more than you think) 




There are so many great features I love about the new site. And of course, our marketing company Real Estate Webmasters Inc has done an amazing job as always.



PS did you know we own Real Estate Webmasters (REW))? Yup that's right That company that was on Dragons Den and received the highest valuation in reality television history (a record we still hold). The company that powers thousands of the top real estate agents, teams and brokerages in over 40 countries (and owns the global MLS?). Yup that's us So if you're thinking about listing, imagine what we can do to generate exposure for YOUR home 


Anyways enough about Real Estate Webmasters... The new website is LIVE (I'm so excited)


I can't wait to add additional features over the coming months including a new proprietary building search that will be a Carly Carey exclusive 



I'd love for you to share it on social and spread the work about this great new website 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 22 Feb 2024 11:26:00 -0800</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.carlycarey.com/blog/listingsbylocation-a-new-global-mls-initiative.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.carlycarey.com/blog/listingsbylocation-a-new-global-mls-initiative.html</link>
        <author>morgan@careyrealestategroup.com (Morgan Carey)</author>
        <title>ListingsByLocation - A new Global MLS Initiative</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
One of the main benefits of using me for your listings is that my marketing is powered by Real Estate Webmasters inc (REW).


Not only is REW the world's largest custom website marketing and lead generation platform, it is also locally owned and operated right here in Nanaimo. My husband Morgan Carey is the founder / CEO. It's because we own Real Estate Webmasters that I am able to generate literally hundreds of buyer inquiries every month and provide more exposure for your luxury waterfront listings than any other Realtor®


Introducing ListingsByLocation.com - The Global MLS





Speaking of global exposure, I have some exciting news Recently (as featured on last month's cover of Real Estate Magazine) our company has launched a new Global MLS platform called ListingsByLocation.com


The benefit of this new project is I can now add my listings to a portal that is syndicated across the world and have my listings (your listings) showcased on thousands of partner websites. Partners like Waterfront Properties who just made a huge investment to upgrade their own platform to be able to use this new portal. Additionally, ListingsByLocation can translate content including listings into over 100 languages which makes your listings far more accessible to an international audience.


This is just one example of how I can represent your luxury listings in a unique way that no other Realtor® in Nanaimo and the rest of Vancouver Island can. If you want to get your home global exposure.... contact me today and let's get it sold


Here is an example of the global MLS search in action



 
 powered by ListingsByLocation - Global MLS
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 29 Jun 2023 08:38:00 -0700</pubDate>
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