Evan Bird Real Estate Blog

If you’ve ever strolled down White Rock’s Marine Drive and caught the scent of smoky peppers, slow-cooked meats, and handmade tortillas in the air… you’ve likely passed Zapoteca.

Tucked into the East Beach strip with the ocean just across the road, Zapoteca Mexican Grill & Seafood isn’t just another waterfront restaurant—it’s a celebration of Oaxacan culture, flavor, and heart. Whether you're a local, new to town, or just dreaming of making White Rock home, this place deserves a spot on your must-try list.

🌶️ A Taste of Southern Mexico, Made Local

Zapoteca isn’t trying to be trendy—it’s trying to be real. Rooted in the traditions of Oaxaca, every dish tells a story. Think rich mole sauces, corn tortillas pressed in-house, and smoky guajillo mushrooms that hit like something out of your abuela’s kitchen.

Their tacos are layered with thoughtful detail—crispy fish, tender barbacoa, or vegan chorizo, always topped with fresh herbs and house-made salsas. This isn’t “Tex-Mex.” This is regional, soulful cooking done right.

🌿 Vegan-Friendly Without Compromise

What makes Zapoteca special is that everyone can pull up a chair. Plant-based diners aren’t left with a sad salad here—they’re treated to vibrant, filling dishes like poblano and potato enchiladas or soy chorizo tacos that hold their own next to anything on the menu.

It’s a welcoming space, both in flavour and in atmosphere. The kind of restaurant where your vegan friend, your meat-loving uncle, and your picky toddler can all find something they love.

🍹 Happy Hour + Ocean Views = Summer Goals

From 2–5 PM, the patio at Zapoteca turns into a little slice of paradise. Sip on a house margarita or a pineapple mezcal cocktail while watching the tide roll in. It’s the kind of place you plan to visit for a quick bite, then lose track of time as the sun sets and the vibe settles in.

Pro tip? Grab a table on the sidewalk patio and time it for golden hour. You’ll see why so many White Rock locals swear this spot feels like a vacation—without ever leaving town.

📍 Local Details That Matter

• Address: 15495 Marine Drive, White Rock, BC

• Open: 11 AM – 9:30 PM Sun–Thurs / till 10 PM Fri & Sat

• Happy Hour: Daily 2 PM – 5 PM (except holidays)

• Reservations & Takeout: zapoteca.com/whiterock

• Phone: 604-536-6677

Why It Matters as a Local

I believe that neighbourhoods are more than houses—they’re the food, the faces, and the little details that make a place feel like home. Zapoteca reflects exactly what makes White Rock special: laid-back, coastal charm mixed with culture, warmth, and damn good food.

Thinking about calling White Rock home? Let’s grab a taco and talk real estate.
📲 Get in touch with me—your local guide to life in the Lower Mainland.

As the days get longer and the sun starts to shine, there’s no better place to enjoy summer than South Surrey and White Rock. Whether you’re a local or considering a move to the area, this seaside community comes alive in the warmer months with outdoor fun, family activities, and coastal charm. Here’s your local guide to making the most of summer 2025.

1. Beach Days at White Rock Pier

You can’t talk about summer in White Rock without mentioning the iconic White Rock Pier. Stretching 470 metres into Semiahmoo Bay, it’s the perfect place for a sunset stroll, crabbing with the kids, or just soaking up the ocean breeze. Don’t forget to snap a photo by the massive white rock the city is named after!

✅ Insider Tip: Stop by The Boathouse or Uli’s Restaurant for dinner with waterfront views.

2. Explore Crescent Beach

For a quieter beach experience, Crescent Beach in South Surrey is a local favourite. With calm waters, sandy shoreline, and scenic walking trails, it’s ideal for paddleboarding, kayaking, or a relaxing beach picnic.

✅ Bonus: Grab ice cream from Crescent Beach Pop-In after a swim.

3. Shop Local at Farmers Markets

Support local and eat fresh at the White Rock Farmers Market, running every Sunday from May through October at Miramar Plaza. Expect everything from artisan bread to handcrafted soap and locally grown produce.

✅ Pro Tip: Arrive early—this market gets busy fast!

4. Catch Live Music & Events

From street performers to live concerts, summer in White Rock is packed with entertainment. Watch for:

• TD Concerts at the Pier – Free outdoor concerts with local and national talent.

• Canada Day by the Bay – Fireworks, food trucks, and live entertainment on July 1st.

• Spirit of the Sea Festival – A family-friendly weekend celebrating White Rock’s coastal culture.

5. Take a Walk or Ride the Trails

South Surrey is home to some of the most scenic walking and biking trails in the region. Check out:

• Sunnyside Acres Urban Forest – Great for forest bathing and shaded walks.

• Nicomekl River Trails – Ideal for cycling or birdwatching.

• Campbell Valley Park – Just a short drive away for a full-day nature adventure.

6. Dine Al Fresco

Summer is patio season, and South Surrey delivers. Check out:

• Moby Dick’s Fish & Chips – A classic by the beach.

• The Cabin – Rustic, west coast vibes with creative comfort food.

• Barcelos Flame Grilled Chicken – A hidden gem for casual patio dining.

7. Family Fun at Local Parks & Splash Pads

If you’ve got little ones, don’t miss:

• South Surrey Athletic Park – With a skate park, sports fields, and trails.

• Grandview Heights Aquatic Centre – Indoor fun with water slides and lazy river.

• Bakerview Park – Home to a fantastic splash pad for hot summer days.

Thinking of Making a Move This Summer?

Summer is also one of the busiest times in real estate—and for good reason. Families are looking to relocate before the new school year, and homes show beautifully in the sunshine. If you're considering buying or selling in South Surrey or White Rock, now’s the time to start planning.

✅ I don’t just sell homes—I help you move into the lifestyle you want. Let's chat about your summer goals. I’m always here to help! 

When it comes to buying or selling a home, experience matters — but local roots can make all the difference. In a community as unique and close-knit as White Rock, having a Realtor who was born and raised here isn't just a bonus — it's a strategic advantage.

Evan Bird is more than a real estate professional. He’s a lifelong White Rock resident who brings an unmatched depth of community insight, a strong sense of service, and decades of hands-on experience to the table. Having spent over 20 years as a dedicated firefighter in his hometown, Evan has seen White Rock evolve, street by street, family by family — and he brings that same level of care and commitment to his clients in real estate.

What sets Evan apart is not only his intimate knowledge of the local market but the way he connects with the people who live here. He understands the nuances of each neighborhood, the hidden gems, and the long-term potential that only a true local can recognize.

His transition from firefighting to real estate was fueled by a deep passion for helping people achieve their housing goals. Whether you're a first-time buyer, upsizing to fit a growing family, or preparing to downsize, Evan’s guidance is grounded in firsthand knowledge and genuine care. His market navigation skills are sharp, his strategies are thoughtful, and his solutions are always tailored to the needs of his clients.

But Evan’s value doesn’t stop at the negotiation table.

With a background in running a successful renovation business, he brings construction expertise and a keen eye for detail that few Realtors can offer. This translates to added value for buyers seeking guidance on property condition and potential, and for sellers looking to make strategic improvements before listing.

Evan’s commitment to community runs even deeper. He is the founder of a local school snack program — a heartfelt initiative that ensures elementary students have access to essential nutrition. It’s one of many ways he continues to invest in the well-being of the community that raised him.

At every step, Evan Bird embodies trust, reliability, and local pride. For clients looking to buy or sell in White Rock, working with someone who truly knows — and loves — this area can mean the difference between a good experience and a great one.

As we move deeper into spring, the Fraser Valley real estate market continues to evolve—and buyers are finding themselves in an increasingly advantageous position. With inventory levels soaring and prices holding steady, the conditions are ripe for those looking to make a move.

Inventory Hits a Decade-High

For the first time in over 10 years, active listings across the Fraser Valley surpassed 10,000 homes. That level of selection is giving buyers something we haven’t seen in a long time: time and leverage.

“A buyer might see a home they like and then have the opportunity to tour five or ten more just like it, without feeling rushed to make an immediate offer.”
— Tore Jacobsen, FVREB Chair

Even with more listings available, sales remained sluggish, with only 1,043 homes sold in April—up just 1% from March and down 29% year-over-year. This disconnect signals a true buyer’s market, with a sales-to-active listings ratio sitting at 10% (a balanced market typically ranges between 12–20%).

Fraser Valley Pricing Snapshot – April 2025

• Detached Homes: Benchmark price $1,506,600
  ⬆️ Up 0.1% from March | ⬇️ Down 1.3% from April 2024

• Townhomes: Benchmark price $833,100
  ⬇️ Down 0.1% from March | ⬇️ Down 2.4% year-over-year

• Condos: Benchmark price $537,800
  ⬇️ Down 0.6% from March | ⬇️ Down 3.2% year-over-year

Average Days on Market

• Detached Homes: 32 days

• Townhomes & Condos: 29 days

While the average time to sell is still under a month, it’s a far cry from the lightning-speed markets of years past. Buyers are doing their homework, exploring more options, and negotiating with confidence.

Local Highlights

Here’s how a few of the Fraser Valley’s most active communities performed in April:

Langley

• Detached Benchmark: $1,650,700 (⬆️ 0.9% from March)

• Townhomes: $861,800 (⬇️ 0.4%)

• Apartments: $611,200 (⬇️ 0.1%)

South Surrey / White Rock

• Detached Benchmark: $1,910,800 (⬆️ 0.3%)

• Townhomes: $954,400 (⬆️ 0.8%)

• Apartments: $619,400 (⬇️ 1.1%)

Surrey (All areas combined)

• Detached Benchmark: $1,627,800 (⬇️ 0.4%)

• Townhomes: $862,900 (Flat)

• Apartments: $524,000 (⬇️ 0.9%)

What This Means for You

If you’re a buyer, this is a golden opportunity to:

• Shop around with less pressure

• Negotiate price and terms

• Potentially wait out small pricing dips or catch motivated sellers

If you’re a seller, strategy matters more than ever:

• Prepping your home properly (staging, repairs, and pricing) is crucial

• You need strong marketing and savvy negotiation to stand out in a crowded field

I believe preparation wins the deal—whether you’re buying or selling. With more than 10,000 listings out there, the right guidance makes all the difference.

Let’s connect.
Whether you're looking to upsize, invest, or sell strategically, I am here to guide you through every step of the process with market insight and a hands-on approach.