It would be best to befriend a local contractor or even help one out on a job to see any differences from your past eight years doing it in another country.

The wider local region also seems to have a lot of tourist draw.

With those numbers, have you checked with a local bank or credit union?

I think the important takeaway is that you need to know what's going on in your local market.

The local market has a lot of opportunities, especially if you’re looking into multifamily or creative financing.

@Loren Souers I take it "OMNI" is a local credit union?

You could also consider house hacking locally.  

Networking with local real estate investor groups can also help identify lenders active in your area.

I don't think one will make money on a net-net basis over the long term.I had asked the same question to local and foreign buyers agent in japan and had vague responses from them as they know the reality.The opportunity lies in the foreclosed property in Japan.

Your property taxes will also be higher as you can't use the home owner's grant.There might be local RE meet ups in Vancouver area where you can go and listen to what others have to say.