Sunday, April 6, 2025 / by Janine Thomson
Greater Victoria’s active real estate market makes rental properties an attractive option for many looking to earn extra income or build long-term wealth. But before jumping in, it’s important to understand both the rewards and the responsibilities that come with owning an income property.
The Perks of Owning Rental Property in Greater Victoria
Consistent Rental IncomeOne of the biggest draws of income properties is the potential for steady cash flow. With a strong rental demand driven by students, retirees, and professionals moving into the region, finding tenants is usually quick. Rental income can help cover your mortgage, taxes, and maintenance, while also generating profit.
Property AppreciationVictoria’s housing market has historically seen consistent growth. Over time, your property may gain value, allowing you to sell for a profit or refinance to access built-up equity.
Tax BreaksIncome properties can offer significant tax advantages. You may be ab. ...
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Sunday, April 6, 2025 / by Janine Thomson
Selling your home in Greater Victoria is both a major decision and an exciting journey. Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, or relocating, one of the most common questions sellers ask is: “How long does the selling process really take?” The truth is, timelines can vary depending on your property, the neighbourhood, and current market conditions.
To help you prepare, this guide breaks down each stage of the selling process—from getting your home ready to handing over the keys—so you’ll know exactly what to expect in the Victoria real estate market.
Step 1: Pre-Listing Preparation (1–2 weeks)
Before your home hits the MLS, there’s important groundwork to cover. Preparing your property properly can help it stand out and sell faster—especially in competitive areas like Fairfield, Oak Bay, or the Westshore.
Key tasks include:
Choosing the Right RealtorPartner with a local expert who knows Greater Victoria inside and ...
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Sunday, April 6, 2025 / by Janine Thomson
You’re one step closer to owning a home in the stunning Greater Victoria real estate market. But what happens next? While it’s a thrilling milestone, the road from offer acceptance to getting the keys involves several important steps. Whether you're a first-time buyer or have been through this before, understanding the closing process can help everything go smoothly.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the essential stages of closing on a home in Greater Victoria—from the moment your offer is accepted to the exciting day you get the keys in your hand.
1. Your Offer Is Accepted: What Comes Next?
Even though your offer has been accepted, the deal isn’t final just yet. There are still a few critical conditions—like financing, inspections, and legal paperwork—that need to be completed.
What You’ll Need to Do:
Provide a Deposit: Typically 1–5% of the purchase price, this "good faith" deposit is held in trust (often by th ...
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Sunday, April 6, 2025 / by Janine Thomson
When you're getting ready to buy a home in Greater Victoria, understanding the mortgage process is crucial. Two common terms you'll hear are pre-qualification and pre-approval – but what exactly do they mean, and how do they impact your home search? Let's break it down so you can navigate the real estate market with confidence.
What is Pre-Qualification?
Pre-qualification is the first step in the mortgage process. It gives you a rough estimate of how much you might be able to borrow based on basic financial information you provide to a lender. This process typically involves:
A brief conversation with a lender
Sharing your income, assets, and debt details (no verification required)
Receiving an estimate of your potential loan amount
Pre-qualification is quick and informal, making it a great starting point if you're just beginning your home search. However, because the information is not verified, it does not guarantee loan approval.
W. ...
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Sunday, April 6, 2025 / by Janine Thomson
When buying a home in Greater Victoria, BC, one of the biggest choices you'll face is whether to go with a new construction home or a resale (pre-owned) property. Both options offer unique benefits and challenges, and the best decision depends on your budget, lifestyle, location preferences, and long-term goals.
In this guide, we’ll compare the pros and cons of new vs. resale homes specifically within Victoria’s dynamic real estate market—from popular new developments in Langford and Saanich to charming older homes in James Bay and Oak Bay.
New Homes in Greater Victoria: Modern Living with Low Maintenance
New construction homes are increasingly popular across Greater Victoria, especially in growing communities like Langford, Royal Bay, Bear Mountain, and Saanich West. These properties offer sleek, energy-efficient features and are often ideal for first-time buyers, retirees, and busy professionals&n ...
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