City of Nanaimo Real Estate and Business Development – Nanaimo, BC

City of Nanaimo – Real Estate and Business Development

The Real Estate and Business Development departments for the City of Nanaimo are primarily located within the Service and Resource Centre (SARC) at 411 Dunsmuir Street. This facility serves as a key administrative hub, separate from the main City Hall, focusing on the management of the city’s physical assets and economic growth. The Real Estate Section is responsible for administering the city’s land portfolio, which includes leasing arrangements, the acquisition of land for public projects (such as parks and roads), and the disposition of surplus municipal properties. They also manage rights-of-way and encroachments, ensuring that public lands are utilized effectively for the benefit of the community.

Economic Development and Support

Working alongside the Real Estate team, the Economic Development office at this location acts as a resource for current and prospective business owners. They provide guidance on business licensing, local market data, and navigating municipal regulations. This department aims to foster a thriving local economy by assisting with business retention, expansion, and attraction strategies. The Service and Resource Centre itself is a “one-stop-shop” for many of these interactions, allowing business owners to handle permits, payments, and inquiries in a central downtown location.

Client Services and Payments

The SARC front counter offers comprehensive services beyond real estate. Residents and businesses can visit to pay property taxes, utility bills, and business licence fees. The centre is equipped to handle building permit applications and provide detailed property information. A 24-hour document and payment drop box is available on-site for after-hours convenience. Visitors should be aware that while the centre handles payments, specific inquiries regarding land sales or complex leasing agreements are often best addressed by appointment with the Real Estate Section directly.