The Vue – A Mixed-Use Development in North Vancouver

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1. Project Overview

The Vue is a contemporary four-storey mixed-use development located at 850 Marine Drive, North Vancouver, BC, with residential addresses at 885 W 15th Street. This development consists of 32 units, including five commercial spaces, two live/work units, and 25 condominiums featuring one- and two-bedroom layouts. With a strategic location offering both cityscape and nature access, Vue was designed to appeal to urban professionals, entrepreneurs, and families alike.

Developer's Core Business & Speciality

The developer acquired the building before its completion from the initial developer, seeking a firm that could successfully market and sell the remaining inventory. Their primary focus was on delivering high-quality mixed-use developments that cater to both residential and commercial needs. However, as a relatively new player in North Vancouver, they faced challenges in brand recognition and consumer confidence.

Project Highlights:

• Premium Features: Some units boast geothermal heating, radiant floor heating, engineered hardwood flooring, and ceiling heights up to 17 feet.
• Views & Location: The upper floors offer panoramic views of downtown, with proximity to Edgemont Village, parks, and green spaces.
• Target Market: Young professionals, business owners, and investors seeking value in a well-connected urban setting.
• Marketing Approach: A combination of direct agent engagement, show suites, a presentation center, and targeted business outreach to match commercial tenants with ideal leasing options.

2. Key Challenges and Problems

Despite its strong value proposition, The Vue encountered several significant hurdles before, during, and after its marketing and sales campaign.

  1. Pricing & Market Competition:
    Balancing the developer’s desire for maximum pricing with a tight timeline posed challenges. At the time, there was significant competition from other developments in the area, making it difficult for buyers to recognize The Vue’s unique zoning and mixed-use benefits.
  2. Limited Brand Recognition & Buyer Confidence:
    The developer was relatively new to the North Shore, meaning prospective buyers lacked trust in their ability to deliver. This required additional efforts to establish credibility and build consumer confidence in the project.
  3. Financing Hurdles:
    Each unit type (retail, live/work, and residential) had distinct financing requirements. To streamline the process, pre-financing options needed to be arranged, reducing the friction in purchase decisions.
  4. Permitting Delays:
    Deficiencies in the construction process resulted in delays in obtaining occupancy and fire permits. This had a direct impact on sales momentum and buyer confidence.
  5. Sales Agent Engagement & Motivation:
    With a slower market, real estate agents were less inclined to focus on projects with high effort and low return. Keeping the sales team motivated was a challenge that required a structured and results-driven approach.

3. Solutions and Outcomes

To overcome these obstacles, a multi-faceted strategy was implemented, focusing on strategic pricing, financial solutions, direct sales engagement, and resource-efficient marketing efforts.

  1. Competitive Pricing & Incentives:
    To generate momentum, financial incentives were offered on select units. Additionally, The Vue was positioned strategically in pricing conversations, ensuring buyers understood the value of its unique zoning and premium features. Word-of-mouth marketing was encouraged by securing initial sales from well-connected individuals, creating a ripple effect.
  2. Building Buyer Confidence:
    A strong brand narrative was developed around the developer’s expertise, past successes, and the project’s long-term viability. This was conveyed through in-person presentations, strategic agent partnerships, and testimonials from early buyers.
  3. Pre-Financing Packages:
    Collaborations with major banks—including Royal Bank, CIBC, and credit unions—helped create pre-approved mortgage options for different unit types. This eliminated financing barriers and made it easier for buyers to make a decision.
  4. Efficient Marketing & Showcasing Strategy:
    Rather than relying on traditional advertising, the marketing plan focused on high-impact, cost-effective methods:
    • Staging & Show Suites: Two fully furnished units were prepared to showcase the potential lifestyle.
    • Targeted Agent Outreach: Office presentations and brokerage meetings helped educate agents about The Vue’s advantages.
    • Appointment-Based Showings: To create a sense of urgency, key prospects were driven to scheduled events rather than open-house-style visits.
    • Business Targeting for Commercial Spaces: Businesses with upcoming lease renewals were approached directly, positioning The Vue as an ideal upgrade opportunity.
  5. Sales Team Motivation & Focus:
    Senior agents with experience in challenging markets were assigned to lead the sales efforts. Sales tracking metrics were closely monitored to ensure agents remained engaged and that conversion rates were optimized.

4. Achieved Results

The strategic approach employed by our project marketing team resulted in significant successes for The Vue, delivering a high-value experience for the developer and buyers alike.

  1. Full Sell-Through of the Project:
    Despite market challenges, all 32 units were successfully sold, including retail spaces, live/work units, and condominiums.
  2. Cost Efficiency in Marketing:
    The marketing budget was managed effectively, ensuring all sales efforts remained within budget while maximizing impact. The use of value-oriented stagers and targeted marketing strategies prevented unnecessary expenses.
  3. Enhanced Developer Reputation:
    By establishing credibility for the developer through branding and sales strategies, we successfully positioned them as a trusted player in North Vancouver’s real estate market. This has led to increased interest in their future projects.
  4. Buyer-Friendly Purchase Structures:
    Through lease-to-own options and flexible financing arrangements, hesitant buyers were encouraged to commit. Several leaseholders eventually converted into purchasers, increasing overall sales revenue.
  5. Strong Business & Community Integration:
    The Vue became an attractive destination for local businesses, ensuring that commercial spaces were filled with strong tenants who aligned with the community’s needs.

Conclusion

The Vue case study highlights our project marketing firm’s ability to strategically plan, market, and execute successful real estate campaigns despite challenges. Our tailored approach ensured that the development gained traction in a competitive market while staying within budget and maximizing results. For developers looking for a trusted, results-driven project marketing partner in Vancouver, our firm provides the expertise and  accountability needed to bring developments to full potential. Reach out to us today to discuss how we can support your next project.

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