Finance

I’m a Vancouver real estate VP making $240,000 a year. Why doesn’t it feel secure?

Real people. Real finances. From six-figure earners to side hustlers, BCBusiness's Money Makers is pulling back the curtain on how British Columbians really make, spend and think about money—no filters, just facts.

By The Editors /

In our inaugural weekly column, we hear from a Vancouver real estate VP earning $240,000 a year. Despite the impressive title and salary, she says job security is shaky—and the perks don’t mean much when the sector is facing challenges.

  • Age: 48
  • Location: Vancouver
  • Industry: Real estate
  • Role: VP of communications
  • Pronouns: She/her
  • Annual Salary: $210,000
  • Education & Training: $8,000 (Journalism diploma from Langara College)

Salary & Benefits

  • Base pay: $210,000
  • Bonuses: $30,000
  • Benefits: Extended health and vision care, commuting subsidies, professional development stipend.

Do you feel fairly paid for what you do?
No. My employer doesn’t use comparable market data, as my role doesn’t exist in our market in our sector. 

Have you ever asked for a raise?
Yes. I was told, due to market data used, I was at market. Also, my sector is not in shape for me to ask for a raise. 

One thing you always splurge on, no matter what:
My dogs.

One thing you refuse to spend money on:
Work travel.

How do you manage your money—app, spreadsheet, advisor?
A financial advisor.

Has living in Vancouver impacted your financial decisions?
I’ve had to reduce travel and make tougher choices about where to spend.

Do you ever worry about money or financial security?
Yes. The sector I work in is in rough shape. Not a lot of job security.

How are you approaching retirement planning?
Saving monthly. Have a LIRA (locked-in retirement account).

Is there a job you admire for the lifestyle or pay?
Chief operating officer.

How do you define financial success?
Having the money to live comfortably without worry and feeling fulfilled. 

What’s one lesson you’ve learned about work and money that others in your industry should hear?
Loyalty is important but isn’t everything anymore. There are other jobs out there that will pay you fairly for your experience. Don’t sell yourself short. 

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