Arbutus, an affluent residential neighbourhood in Vancouver’s West Side, extends from 16th Avenue on the north to 41st on the south and from Mackenzie Street on the west to Arbutus Street on the east. A mature community with stately homes on large lots between tree-lined streets interspersed with quiet neighbourhood parks and with clear views of the nearby mountains to the north, Arbutus in the middle of Vancouver’s west side has easy access to Downtown, the University of British Columbia, Pacific Spirit Regional Park, and the seaside areas of Kitsilano and Jericho Beach. Most of the population of about 16,000 live in single-family homes. Neighborhood schools are Prince of Wales Secondary School, Carnarvon Elementary School, and Trafalgar Elementary School, which conducts a French immersion program.
Historical Notes
Ironically, this affluent neighbourhood was once the “Asthma Flats” in the late 1800s and early 1900s, little more than a swamp traversable by plank walkways. As in much of Vancouver, the Canadian Pacific Railway brought commercial and residential development to Arbutus Ridge after 1888, when the province turned the area over to the railroad. The Arbutus line remains adjacent to Arbutus Street throughout the east side of the neighbourhood though now abandoned and unused. Arbutus Ridge became a municipality of the City of Vancouver in 1929
Mackenzie Heights in the southwest corner of Arbutus Ridge was in 1912 the first area of the community to start large-scale residential development. Not until the 1940s did developers haul sand from False Creek to fill in the Asthmas Flats for construction of property improvements on the bottom lands.
High Property Values
The single-family home at 2805 West 19th Avenue may look like a bungalow but in fact has six bedrooms and two bathrooms on three levels. A good home and investment, the house has a full basement with a two-bedroom suite which could bring in substantial income. Built in 1942, the 2,310-square-foot home lists for $1.598 million. Annual property taxes are just over $6,000.
Many shops and amenities are within walking distance: a Starbucks coffee shop, Choices Market, La Buca Italian Trattoria, Trafalgar’s at Sweet Obsession, and the Jamaican-inspired Patty Shop. The home is close to Prince of Wales secondary and Carnarvon and Trafalgar elementary schools, and to transit stops just steps away.
Canadian Pacific Controversy
The Arbutus Corridor is marred by train tracks that have not seen a train for years. Cyclists and environmentalists lobby for conversion of this 11-kilometre strip to use as a greenway. The Canadian Pacific Railway owns the land but the city won the legal right to determine land use zoning in a 2006 court decision. The city’s long-term 2040 Transportation Plan describes the Arbutus Corridor as “an east-west barrier.”
Canadian Pacific has asked more than 15,000 people and businesses to remove any property along the train tracks in the Arbutus Corridor as it continues its review of the rail line. No trains have used the line since 2001. The City of Vancouver, which has the last word on use of the corridor, says it is against a return of heavy rail, but residents fear that Canadian Pacific may intend to resume it.
Community Vision PlanIn November 2005, the Vancouver City Council approved the Arbutus Ridge-Kerrisdale-Shaughnessy Community Vision Plan, which seeks to retain the historic and mature character of the area and to further improve the community by:
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New Arbutus Live MLS Listings
Arbutus in Vancouver, BC
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4069 PUGET Drive in Vancouver: Arbutus House for sale (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2487144
4069 PUGET Drive Vancouver V6L 2V3 
$6,300,000Residential Detached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2487144
- Bedrooms:
- 4
- Bathrooms:
- 5
- Floor Area:
- 4,284 sq. ft.
PUGET DRIVE CUSTOM MASTERPIECE, perched high on the hill w/ stunning views, attention to detail & top quality craftsmanship. Built in 06 w/ 4 brs, 5 baths & overlooking the city & north shore mountains. An entertainers dream plan w/ elegant vaulted entry, 10' ceilings, an open great room w/ french doors to the view deck, beautiful landscaping & priv. spacious bluestone garden patio w/ gas F-place. Top line appliances inc. 6 burner Wolf range w/ dbl ovens, SubZero & Bosch w/ granite counters, 2 islands, full height cabinets & beautiful oak hardwood floors. Mega storage & smart laundry/ mudrm entry off back patio. Spacious Master suite up w. large WiC & luxurious enste & Fr doors to 14x12 view balc. 2nd Br & bath up +3rd br & bath plus S/C 1 Br suite down. Dbl garage w/ 20x10 flex rm below. More detailsListed by RE/MAX - Stuart Bonner
- Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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2181 W 22ND Avenue in Vancouver: Arbutus House for sale (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2450432
2181 W 22ND Avenue Vancouver V6L 1L4
$5,686,000Residential Detached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2450432
- Bedrooms:
- 6
- Bathrooms:
- 7
- Floor Area:
- 4,133 sq. ft.
GORGEOUS & BRAND NEW custom built mansion in Arbutus! 4,100 + sq ft of luxurious living area sits on beautiful landscaped level lot 50 x 122 (6,222 sq ft). Superb workmanship, meticulous attention to quality & details w/no expense spared. Open floor plan w/high ceiling & hard wood floor, marbles thru out. Total 6 bedrooms & den ( 4 ensuited on top flr) 6.5 baths, entertaining sized family rm overlooking the serene garden. Large gourmet kitchen w/high-end cabinetry & top of line appliances, wok kit, home theatre, wet bar, wine rack, smart home system, radiant in-floor heating, A/C, HRV, 4 car garage. Steps away from Trafalgar Elem, PW Secondary. Easy drive to York House, St Georges, Crofton & UBC More detailsListed by Sutton Group-West Coast Realty - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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2507 W KING EDWARD Avenue in Vancouver: Arbutus House for sale (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2479320
2507 W KING EDWARD Avenue Vancouver V6L 1T5
$5,298,000Residential Detached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2479320
- Bedrooms:
- 8
- Bathrooms:
- 8
- Floor Area:
- 4,132 sq. ft.
This prestigious dwelling forms a unique haven of refuge with exceptional quality. Located at a prime residential address in the Arbutus area. The resplendent, detached property presides over a discreet, terraced land plot with a level garden. The 9-room 8-bath residence captivates with beautiful sequences of rooms which includes a 2-room legal suite, in addition to a serine 2-room 677 sf LWH. The commodious interiors and terraces each boast varying views overlooking the garden. Features incl. over-height ceilings, fireplace, hardwood flooring, A/C, & in-floor heating. A dream kitchen is highlighted by large granite surfaces. 3 bdrms on the upper incl a master w/walk-in closet & elegant ensuite. The LWH and the legal suite are elegantly designed and comfortable. More detailsListed by Engel & Volkers Vancouver - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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2580 W 16TH Avenue in Vancouver: Arbutus House for sale (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2471054
2580 W 16TH Avenue Vancouver V6K 3C1
$4,688,000Residential Detached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2471054
- Bedrooms:
- 5
- Bathrooms:
- 7
- Floor Area:
- 4,772 sq. ft.
Custom-built home on a large 50 x 150 FT LOT with a SOUTH FACING BACK YARD. This exceptionally large (4,772 SF) home features over height ceilings, three gas fireplaces, family room built-ins that create the sense of a grand yet cozy home. The large main living level also features a large Wok kitchen with natural light and fresh air and a guest room with full ensuite bath. Basement is perfect for entertaining with its large bar, wine storage, living and play area and for guests with a private guest bedroom. All upper bedrooms are large and have their own ensuites. A/C, 2 steam showers, sauna & B/in vacuum. 4 car garage. Easy access to York House, St. Georges, Crofton House and UBC. Prince of Wales School district. More detailsListed by Oakwyn Realty Downtown Ltd. - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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3950 PUGET Drive in Vancouver: Arbutus House for sale (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2486213
3950 PUGET Drive Vancouver V6L 2V4
$4,650,000Residential Detached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2486213
- Bedrooms:
- 5
- Bathrooms:
- 5
- Floor Area:
- 4,376 sq. ft.
Custom built contemporary panoramic view home on Puget Drive in the Arbutus area. This lovely home sits on an 8358 sqft corner lot and has been maintained and updated throughout the years by the current owners. Over 4300 sqft of open plan living with plenty of windows and skylights to bring in lots of natural lights. The reverse plan features the main level with spacious principal rooms including a large living room, dining room, a fabulous gourmet kitchen with eating area and a huge family room overlooking a private sundeck with beautiful city and mountain view. The lower level has 4 bedrooms and an office. The basement has a terrific in-law suite. Professionally landscaped gardens and 2 cars attached garage. Close to Trafalgar Elementary & Prince of Wales Secondary School catchment More detailsListed by Royal Pacific Realty Corp. - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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2829 W 23RD Avenue in Vancouver: Arbutus House for sale (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2498394
2829 W 23RD Avenue Vancouver V6L 1P2
$4,588,000Residential Detached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2498394
- Bedrooms:
- 4
- Bathrooms:
- 6
- Floor Area:
- 3,542 sq. ft.
Magnificent brand new house in Arbutus! Handcrafted by a well known builder, this elegant home offers 3500 sf of living area on a 4758 sf beautifully landscaped lot. It boasts luxurious crystal lighting, supreme finishing through out, high quality customized workmanship and high-end appliances. Furthermore the grandeur of the house includes 3 bedroom suites, a basement theater, office work space and a separate legal suite that may be utilized as a mortgage helper. Additionally included are two sets of washers and dryers, anti-fog mirrors, a wine cooler, and countless other functions. Ensure not only comfort, but also luxury and functionality. Located near Trafalgar Elementary and Prince of Wales Secondary, this home is a must see. Book your private showing today! More detailsListed by Pacific Evergreen Realty Ltd. - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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2450 W 22ND Avenue in Vancouver: Arbutus House for sale (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2497734
2450 W 22ND Avenue Vancouver V6L 1M2
$4,180,000Residential Detached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2497734
- Bedrooms:
- 5
- Bathrooms:
- 6
- Floor Area:
- 3,730 sq. ft.
Welcome to this Modern & Classic customized house w/amazing Mountain Views in premium Arbutus location! Solid built 3- level elegant residence offers the most practical floor plan with spacious 4 bdrms up & 1 bdrm below, and 5 & half baths, beautiful artistic style for foyer entrance, ultimate simple but beautiful details through out, designer style lighting fixtures, awesome color scheme gravitates towards the pilgrimage of gracefulness! Spacious kitchen & wok kitchen, radiant heat, A/C, HRV, bonus 4 car garage & 1 extra parking beside, favorite southern facing backyard, you also enjoy the impressive all year long Mountain Views in your living room! Walking to reputable schools in town Prince Wales Secondary & Trafalgar Elementary! Cherry Blossoms picturesque street in Spring! Must see! More detailsListed by RE/MAX Select Properties - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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2721 W 24TH Avenue in Vancouver: Arbutus House for sale (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2441732
2721 W 24TH Avenue Vancouver V6L 1R2
$3,990,000Residential Detached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2441732
- Bedrooms:
- 5
- Bathrooms:
- 6
- Floor Area:
- 3,731 sq. ft.
Prime Arbutus Location close by Trafalgar Elementary. European builder custom built home offers full attention to details in craftsmanship, supreme finishing gives the warm feeling ofluxury. Gourmet kitchen with high end appliances, extensive use of granite, marbles and custom mill work throughout. Functional floor plan, total 5 bedrooms, 4 full bath, 2 half bath, 3-car garage. Prince of Wales Secondary Catchment. More detailsListed by Royal Pacific Realty Corp. - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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2446 W 20TH Avenue in Vancouver: Arbutus House for sale (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2469579
2446 W 20TH Avenue Vancouver V6L 1G7
$3,988,000Residential Detached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2469579
- Bedrooms:
- 6
- Bathrooms:
- 5
- Floor Area:
- 3,942 sq. ft.
This elegant and spacious home is a must-see. With nearly 4,000 sq ft of living space, a 4-CAR garage, skylights, exposed aggregate and a South-facing yard, this one is sure to impress. ORIGINAL OWNER custom built this home and has barely lived in it. The main floor has a living room AND a family room (both with gas fireplaces), dining room AND eat-in kitchen PLUS wok kitchen, office with built-ins and powder room. Upper level has four bedrooms (two with ensuites) plus full bathroom. Spacious master bedroom has a 5-piece ensuite with soaker tub and dual vanity. The basement is complete with a wet bar, theatre room, two bedrooms, full bathroom and laundry room. This 52x122 lot is situated in a prime location with easy access to Arbutus & Broadway shopping and close to premium schools. More detailsListed by eXp Realty - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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2439 W 23RD Avenue in Vancouver: Arbutus House for sale (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2484357
2439 W 23RD Avenue Vancouver V6L 1N7
$3,980,000Residential Detached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2484357
- Bedrooms:
- 6
- Bathrooms:
- 5
- Floor Area:
- 3,877 sq. ft.
Beautiful house in a perfect location. Trafalgar park is sitting in the front of the house. This South facing house is bright and spacious. 2-level high ceiling, granite floor foyer & good sized bedrooms upstairs with ensuites bathrooms. Enjoy summer barbeque at big wood deck in back backyard. Potential for 2 bedroom suite in basement. Close to renowned Trafalgar elementary and Prince of Wales Secondary. More detailsListed by Royal Pacific Realty Corp. - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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