Dear Neil and Krista,

We wanted to let you know as soon as possible about probable changes coming to (insert building name). This is NOT a notice to vacate, but it is our first effort in keeping you up-to-date on potential future changes to your tenancy.

We bought (insert building name) in June 2005. Since then we have been examining various options for improvements to the property. In all likeihood, we will re-develop the site by demolishing the current structure to build a new concrete 12-storey building of condominiums. Though we haven't exactly concluded our calculations, we will probably begin demolition of the building in the fall of this year (2006).

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The letter continues to babble on. What I find most interesting is that this comes on the heels of a lot of press coverage of how affordable housing became scarce during the buildup to Expo '86 and how there are similar worries as the 2010 Olympics draw closer.

Our building is old. I won't lie -- it's in need of renovations -- but it is still a very nice building to live in. It is hardly "demolition" material. This is a case of the almighty buck taking precedence over the people living here. While I can be reasonable and see their point of view from a business standpoint -- it doesn't lessen my feelings of loss. I've called this place "home" for 4 years. Further, there are many tenants here that I would call lifers -- this is their home. For many, I'm sure a condo is not an affordable option.

In our neighbourhood, a 700 sqft 1-bedroom condo STARTS around ~$350,000. Having grown up somewhere like Saskatchewan where that would buy you a large furnished house -- this is a really hard pill to swallow.

I love Vancouver -- but I would like to one day own something more than a tiny box.