SALT SPRING ISLAND REAL ESTATE
with John Cade

Island Life

Salt Spring Island has a large seniors’ population, the majority of which would not be found sitting in front of their tv sets willing away the day. We are home to a large arts community, both the visual and performing. On Saturdays between April and October there is a market in the park in downtown Ganges that is second to none. The market’s mandate is that the wares you sell have to be “made, baked, or grown, on Salt Spring Island” and some of the island’s most prominent artisans display their goods in this attractive and popular venue.

There are many operating traditional and/or organic vegetable and fruit farms and Salt Spring Lamb is revered around the world for its quality.

Downtown Ganges is the centre of commerce and an islander stops and talks to many friends and acquaintances on their way to do the banking or grocery shopping.

Tourism is probably the biggest island industry and keeps many of our retail business alive, not to mention that it provides employment for the majority of island youths between the accommodations and food venues.

There are three hotels, several guest houses, and well over 150 bed-and-breakfasts on the island providing employment to many. The construction industry is also a large employer on the island. However, there is also a large contingent of employment provided by the government through BC Ferries, BC Hydro, and the several schools on the island.

Hospital workers and long term care providers are also very much in demand. Our Chamber of Commerce offers comprehensive information for the tourist as well as someone thinking about relocating to our island. They are located in the centre of the town and are more than willing to answer questions on accommodation, dining, and the business community.