Real Estate | Blog - Buyer & Seller Resources Blog

Tuesday, December 3, 2024   /   by Janine Thomson

Warm and optimistic start to winter sales in the Victoria real estate market

December 2, 2024  A total of 551 properties sold in the Victoria Real Estate Board region this November, 39.8 per cent more than the 394 properties sold in November 2023 and a 15.7 per cent decrease from October 2024. Sales of condominiums were up 55 per cent from November 2023 with 186 units sold. Sales of single family homes increased by 36.3 per cent from November 2023 with 263 sold.
"I've found that buyers and sellers are feeling optimistic right now," said 2024 Victoria Real Estate Board Chair Laurie Lidstone. "With the steady decrease we've seen in interest rates and the continued balance in the market, consumers are feeling more comfortable and empowered to make the big decisions around home ownership knowing that they have a fairly stable real estate environment to navigate."
There were 2,836 active listings for sale on the Victoria Real Estate Board Multiple Listing Service® at the end of November 2024, a decrease of 10.3 per cent compared to the previous month. ...

  real estate statistics, victoria real estate

Friday, August 2, 2024   /   by Janine Thomson

When Is the Best Time to Sell or Buy a Home in Victoria, BC?

Timing can significantly impact your real estate transaction, whether you're buying or selling a home in Victoria, BC. The real estate market fluctuates throughout the year, influenced by seasonal trends, economic factors, and local demand. Understanding these patterns can help you make informed decisions and maximize your benefits. Here’s a breakdown of the best times to sell or buy a home in Victoria, BC, and the reasons behind them.
Best Time to Sell a Home in Victoria, BC


Spring (March to May)

Why It’s the Best: Spring is traditionally the most active season for home sales. The weather improves, gardens bloom, and homes generally look more appealing. Buyers are more motivated to move during the warmer months, and families often aim to settle before the next school year.
Benefits for Sellers:

Higher Demand: Increased buyer activity leads to more competition and potentially higher offers.
Better Presentation: Homes show better with natural light and blooming. ...

  victoria real estate, selling a home, buying a home

Monday, April 22, 2024   /   by Janine Thomson

Facts on BC's Speculation & Vacancy Tax

British Columbia's vacant property tax, officially known as the Speculation and Vacancy Tax (SVT), is a provincial tax aimed at addressing housing affordability and encouraging owners to utilize residential properties in high-demand areas. Here's everything you need to know about BC's vacant tax:
Objective: The primary objective of the Speculation and Vacancy Tax is to target properties that are left vacant for extended periods, particularly in areas with low rental vacancy rates or high demand for housing. By imposing a tax on vacant properties, the government aims to encourage owners to either rent out their properties or sell them to address the housing shortage.
Applicable Regions: The SVT applies to designated regions in British Columbia where housing affordability and availability are significant concerns. These regions include the Metro Vancouver Regional District (excluding Bowen Island and Lions Bay), the Capital Regional District (excluding the Gulf Islands a ...

  real estate, real estate taxes

Monday, April 22, 2024   /   by Janine Thomson

Ideas for Preparing your Home for Sale

Preparing your house for sale is crucial for making a positive impression on potential buyers and maximizing its appeal. Here are some of the best tips for getting your home ready to sell:
Declutter and Depersonalize: Start by decluttering your home to create a clean, spacious environment that allows buyers to envision themselves living there. Remove personal items such as family photos and memorabilia to help buyers visualize the space as their own.
Deep Clean: Give your home a thorough cleaning, paying attention to every room, including often overlooked areas like baseboards, light fixtures, and windows. A clean home conveys a sense of care and maintenance to potential buyers.
Enhance Curb Appeal: First impressions matter, so invest in enhancing your home's curb appeal. Mow the lawn, trim bushes, plant flowers, and make any necessary exterior repairs to create an inviting entrance for potential buyers.
Make Repairs and Updates: Address any minor repairs and maintenance ...

  real estate, preparing for listing, home maintenance tips, selling a home

Thursday, April 4, 2024   /   by Janine Thomson

Supply still key to Victoria's housing market

April 2 2024
A total of 588 properties sold in the Victoria Real Estate Board region this March, 0.3 per cent fewer than the 590 properties sold in March 2023 but a 25.1 per cent increase from February 2024. Sales of condominiums were down 10.2 per cent from March 2023 with 177 units sold. Sales of single family homes increased 1.8 per cent from March 2023 with 286 sold.
"We've concluded a rather quiet first quarter and are transitioning into the spring market," said 2024 Victoria Real Estate Board Chair Laurie Lidstone. "Many of our local REALTOR® members are noting that more shoppers are coming into the market - but this has not necessarily translated into sales numbers. This may change as we move into what is historically the busiest market of the year."
There were 2,647 active listings for sale on the Victoria Real Estate Board Multiple Listing Service® at the end of March 2024, an increase of 12 per cent compared to the previous month of February and a 34.4 per cent inc ...

  real estate statistics, victoria real estate