The Fraser Valley stepped towards a more balanced market in May, with both sales and overall inventory reaching their highest points for the year.

The Fraser Valley Real Estate Board processed 1,758 sales of all property types on its Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in May, a decrease of 35.1 per cent compared to the 2,707 sales in May of last year, and a 2.9 per cent increase compared to the 1,708 sales in April 2018.

Of the 1,758 sales processed last month 417 were townhouses and 516 were apartments, together representing 53 per cent of all transactions in May.

Active inventory for the Fraser Valley finished at 6,736 listings last month, the highest level since September 2015, increasing 18.9 per cent month-over-month and 29.5 per cent when compared to May 2017.

Click here for the full report.

There are a lot of great things about summer, but bugs are not on that list! Many insects play important roles for the environment, so these natural methods will keep them from spoiling your summer fun without having harmful effects.

Grow the right plants

Whether it is in your garden, patio, balcony or even inside your home, there are certain plants that will discourage bugs. The added benefit of this method is that many of these plants look and smell great. Lavender, citronella geraniums, peppermint, and more will all do the trick.

Burn citronella candles

The bonus of using a citronella candle to keep away bugs is that you get to enjoy soft candlelight during summer evenings.

Wear less perfume

Strong scents from perfumes, shampoos and other toiletries can actually attract bugs, so consider using unscented or perfumeless alternatives.

Drink more water

Bugs are also more attracted to you when you are sticky and sweaty. Staying hydrated will help you avoid this.

Use a fan

Whether electronic or handheld, using a fan will also help you stay less sweaty plus the air currents from the fan will make it more difficult for bugs to actually fly around you.

Stats are calculated comparing May 2018 to May 2017 .

To see more information on local stats in Fraser Valley, please click here.