Well, let me tell you at this special time of the year why I think that you can do no wrong investing in real estate in British Columbia.

Living in B.C. is close to heaven on earth. The environment is majestic, the climate outstanding, the view spectacular. There is a very special flavour here the ocean spray, balmy sunsets, serene beaches, roses in February and asters in October There is a B.C. flavour unlike any other.

In my opinion, this is the best place in the world to be, and therefore, to buy real estate.

In B.C. much is happening. From all parts of the world people come here, bringing their individuality, charm, wisdom and business acumen.

They become Canadianized and we`e the greater for it. The experience of British Columbia holds these newcomers, transforms them and brings about this curious blend of work and play, outdoors and indoors, East-meets-West.

What we all do with our experiences will form our future and our destiny. I believe British Columbia is destined for great things. To work here is a privilege. To live here is a true blessing. To study here is a benefit.

The new year will be fast-paced. There will be rapid technological innovation that will create an unprecedented change worldwide.

But what about our spiritual self? We all need to come closer to ourselves, discover that life is not all money, not all about owning material things.

For me, the essence of living in B.C. is to enjoy our fabulous environment, focus on individual growth and endeavour, and show compassion for others.

I have been told every year that no one can afford to buy real estate any more, that young people are out of luck, that there are too many realtors in the business, or interest rates are too high. And every year, without fail, these excuses were following by the words: „ wish I had bought five years ago.ÿ/p>

I told people to buy in Toronto in 1995, in Calgary in 1996, in Vancouver in 1999. But if the truth be told, I will tell people to buy real estate in B.C. all the time. Real estate values grow where people want to live.

Itô the quality of daily living in B.C. that has people dreamy-eyed in eastern Canada and thousands of people to search out our embassies abroad.

Here you can live your dream every day. It is all a matter of commitment. We move toward what we commit to. In fact, the quality of our life is in direct proportion to the level of our commitment.

So, letô commit to a great year in 2003. Letô commit to our family, commit to our work, commit to home ownership, and most of all, letô commit to British Columbia.