One of Vancouver’s most expensive properties has been taken over by squatters

For nearly a year, campers have set-up a makeshift shelter on one of Vancouver’s most expensive pieces of real estate, leading to friction with the owner and neighbours, and prompting calls to police.

Vancouver cops confirmed they’re looking at how to handle reports that campers are trespassing on a privately owned, vacant lot at the end of a west side street with spectacular ocean and mountain views over Spanish Banks.

“Our officers did open an investigation after we received reports of conflicts between residents on Belmont Avenue and people who appear to be camping in the area. We are reviewing the matter and have not, at this time, taken enforcement action,” said VPD media spokesman Sgt. Steve Addison.

There are three side-by-side, single family lots at 4883, 4889 and 4889 Belmont. Together, they cover an area of five acres and were listed on the market starting from June 21, 2021, through 2022. At that time, they were priced at $38.9 million, $29.9 million and $11.9 million for a total of $80.7 million. They’re currently assessed at a total of nearly $60 million.