If you’ve never had your butcher offer you a free bag of bones for your dog, or had your barista warmly welcome you by your first name, you’re missing out on that neighbourhood that everyone should be searching for. We’re here to help you find it.
Lay of the land.
Surrey, BC is one of the fastest-growing cities in the province, and several of its neighbourhoods continue to expand. To the north sits Surrey Central, where sky-bound towers, city hall and a state-of-the-art library have transformed the area in just a few short years. As you move south along King George Highway, it’s not long until you hit beautiful Bear Creek Park, located in the heart of the city and not too far from each of Surrey’s busiest neighbourhoods. Newton and Sullivan Heights sit to the south of Bear Creek, where residents enjoy large lots and single-family homes (along with some of the best Indian food in the province).
New developments are popping up all over Surrey, which is why we toured this growing community in Season One of RealTours. Local real estate expert Karan Kundhal showed us the differences between some of Surrey’s fastest-growing neighbourhoods, and why Surrey truly has something for everyone.
On the house.
From the bustling urban centre of Surrey Central to the serene landscapes of Sullivan Heights, Surrey is a testament to British Columbia's dynamic growth. Each area has its own story, and homes look quite a bit different in each of Surrey’s major neighbourhoods. Established communities like Newton, Guildford, and Fleetwood have witnessed significant transformations over the years, with Newton experiencing a particularly notable surge in new development.
Bear Creek Park has become a hotspot for homebuyers looking to upgrade from townhomes and condos. The allure of larger lots, houses with basement suites, and the promise of mortgage helpers make it an attractive proposition. The convenience of being minutes away from the King George SkyTrain Station and the bustling business community in Newton further adds to its appeal. This area, predominantly featuring single-family homes, is undergoing a transformation as zoning changes pave the way for multi-family residences. The east side of Bear Creek, in particular, is witnessing growth in low-rise buildings and condos, catering to a growing demand for more housing options.
Two decades ago, the Surrey Central area was less coveted, but it has since witnessed a dramatic transformation. Today, it stands as a beacon of urban development, with an array of residential properties, from high-rises to townhouses dotting its skyline. Local developers are capitalizing on this boom, with a focus on one and two-bedroom condos.
Meanwhile, Sullivan Heights offers a tranquil escape with its lush greenery, while still providing easy access to public transportation and highways. Here, families grow and dreams expand, with many seeking to upgrade to more spacious homes. Rising interest rates have made mortgage helpers a common feature in the area.
Nearby, Newton is home to one of the largest pre-sale projects in Surrey at Silva, offering residences with two-bedroom units stretching up to 900 square feet, a rarity in other parts of the city. The project's unique offerings, such as extra patio space and enclosed balconies, set it apart from other developments in the city. With Silva 1 already under construction and Silva 2 and 3 soon to follow, urban living is being redefined in Surrey.
Room for activities.
Surrey's recreational offerings are as diverse as its neighbourhoods. Bear Creek Park, nestled between Newton and Surrey Central, is a haven for nature lovers and families alike. The park's central location offers easy access to major transportation hubs, making it a favourite among residents. North Surrey Football calls the park home, as do numerous track and field events and community gatherings throughout the year.
For those seeking urban conveniences, Surrey Central boasts a plethora of amenities, from the newly built library and city hall to fantastic education at SFU Surrey, all within walking distance. The transformation of this area over the past two decades has made it a top choice for many homeseekers.
Sullivan Heights, with its abundant greenery and proximity to public transportation and highways, offers a peaceful retreat from the urban hustle. West Newton Community Park and Goldstone Park both offer plenty of space for growing families to enjoy an afternoon, and the Surrey Tennis Centre is located just south of the Bell Performing Arts Centre. There’s really something for everyone here.
Down to business.
Surrey's business landscape is as dynamic as its residential scene. With its rapid urban development, the city is home to a myriad of local businesses that cater to the diverse needs of its residents. Here are a few of the top local businesses in the community.
Learn more: Clove - The Art of Dining
Clove - The Art of Dining
Taking inspiration from India’s ancient cooking methods and incorporating a modern flare, Clove’s goal is to pioneer new flavours. And they’re accomplishing that vision extremely well, expertly combining traditional and modern takes on Indian cuisine. Meat-eaters need to try the Lamb Dum Biryani, Murgh Tikka, and Nizami Chicken Korma, while vegetarians will love sinking their teeth into the Benarsi Dum Aloo, Malai Paneer Kofta, and all of the delicious Dal options on the menu.
Image captured from: houseofbohn.com
Learn more: Captain’s Oven Pizza
Captain’s Oven Pizza
When you’re south of the Fraser River and in need of a good slice of pizza, there are plenty of options. But for our money, Captain’s Oven is the go-to pizza joint. Conveniently located a few blocks south of King George SkyTrain Station, Captain’s Oven is serving authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas and salads. Their pizzas are baked in a 3-ton, handmade stone brick oven shipped directly from Italy, which is the not-so-secret secret to their delicious pies. Try the Superb Soprasetta, a loaded pizza that comes with mozzarella, fior di latte, grana padano, spicy soprasetta, basil and fresh green chili, topped with a honey drizzle that will set your taste buds into overdrive. Oh captain, my captain.
Image captured from: @captainsovenpizza
Learn more: Central City Brewers + Distillers
Central City Brewers + Distillers
You could make the argument that Central City Brewers was the first step in Surrey Central’s transformation, drawing crowds to their location across from SFU Surrey for nearly two decades. They now call North Surrey home, operating a massive 65,000-square-foot facility in Bridgeview. Brewmaster Gary Lohin ensures Central City brews with the best ingredients, making no compromises on quality. The end product speaks for itself, this is a must-visit spot in North Surrey. They also operate one of the best private liquor stores in the province, in case you need a bottle for a special occasion.
Image captured from: @centralcitybrew
Learn more: Espresso Cafe
Espresso Cafe
Espresso Cafe in Newton is more than just a coffee shop, it's a delightful fusion of specialty beverages, delectable food, and a warm, inviting ambiance. From the first sip of their Chai Tea Latte to the last bite of their egg and cheese croissant sandwich, every moment here is a testament to their commitment to quality. Whether you're a local or a newcomer, grabbing a quick treat on your way to work or settling in for a lunch date, Espresso Cafe promises a great experience that everyone in the community appreciates.
School's in session.
Surrey's educational landscape is as vast as its geographical expanse. The city's school district covers a wide area, encompassing communities like Newton, Surrey Central, Guildford, Fleetwood, and South Surrey.
Established in 1906, School District Number 36 stands as the largest in terms of student enrolment in British Columbia, with over 77,000 students to care for. It's also among the few districts in the province experiencing growth (making up 130 schools and counting).
In addition to the public schools, Surrey also offers a range of private schools and French Immersion programs, catering to the diverse needs of its residents.
