As the days get shorter and the air turns crisp, fall is the perfect time to prepare your home for the colder months ahead. A few small seasonal maintenance tasks now can save you from bigger (and more expensive) headaches later. Whether you live in a single-family house, a townhouse, or a condo, here’s what to keep in mind this season.

For Homeowners

Clean Your Gutters
Falling leaves may be beautiful, but they can clog your gutters quickly. Clearing them out ensures proper drainage and helps prevent water damage to your roof and foundation.

Check Weatherstripping
Drafts around doors and windows not only make your home less comfortable but also increase your heating bills. Replacing worn-out weatherstripping is an easy and affordable fix that keeps the warmth in and the chill out.

Service Your Furnace
Scheduling a quick tune-up for your furnace in the fall means you’ll be ready when the temperatures drop. Regular servicing improves efficiency, extends the life of your system, and reduces the risk of mid-winter breakdowns.

For Condo Owners

Inspect Windows and Balcony Doors
Condos often have large windows or sliding doors — check the seals for drafts and add weatherstripping if needed. This small step helps with comfort and heating efficiency.

Check Heating Systems
If your condo uses electric baseboards or a heat pump, dust them off and test them early in the season to make sure they’re working properly. If heat is centralized, ask your strata when servicing is scheduled.

Prep Your Balcony or Patio
Clear leaves, store summer furniture, and ensure drains are unclogged to prevent water pooling or ice buildup. A tidy balcony is not only safer but also helps avoid damage.

Review Strata Notices
Many buildings schedule fall maintenance like chimney cleaning, window washing, or heating system checks. Stay informed so you can plan around these and take advantage of building-wide upkeep.

Taking care of these simple fall maintenance tasks — whether in a house, a townhouse, or a condo — will give you peace of mind and keep your home cozy all season long.

Thinking about selling your home or condo this fall or winter? Staying on top of seasonal maintenance helps protect your property’s value and makes it more appealing to buyers. If you’d like personalized advice on preparing your space for the market — or just want a trusted recommendation for local service providers — I’d love to help.

Jacqueline Ross, REALTOR® 
Coldwell Banker Oceanside
(250) 415-5656
jac@yourvanislehome.com
Instagram | Facebook  
Get the newsletter!

If you’re looking for a place that combines incredible food, exceptional service, and a breathtaking view, look no further than Glo Restaurant & Lounge. Nestled in the Burnside Gorge neighbourhood at 2940 Jutland Rd, Glo offers the perfect blend of atmosphere and culinary delights that will make you want to return again and again.

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Glo with both my team and my parents, and I can confidently say that every visit has been a memorable one. The meals consistently surpass expectations, leaving everyone at the table completely satisfied.

On the menu, the salmon was perfectly cooked, flaky, and flavourful. The blackened chicken was a hit, with just the right amount of spice. The ahi tuna was fresh and expertly prepared—definitely a must-try. And let’s not forget the desserts! From rich chocolate treats to light, fruity options, they were the perfect ending to an already exceptional meal.

What sets Glo apart is the atmosphere. Located on the beautiful Selkirk Waterway, dining here offers a peaceful view of the water and surrounding nature, creating the perfect backdrop for any meal. Whether you're enjoying a casual dinner with friends or a special meal with family, the ambiance truly enhances the experience.

The service was friendly and attentive, and the overall vibe is just right—inviting, yet elegant.

I highly recommend you check out Glo Restaurant & Lounge for your next dining experience in Victoria. You can learn more about their menu, hours, and specials by visiting their website. Trust me, you’ll want to book a table soon!

Need more recommendations? Contact me today and I’ll introduce you to more great places to eat, shop, and play in Victoria and around southern Vancouver Island.

Jacqueline Ross, REALTOR® 
Coldwell Banker Oceanside
(250) 415-5656
jac@yourvanislehome.com
Instagram | Facebook  
Get the newsletter!

Why Fall Can Be a Smart Time to Buy a Home in Victoria, BC

When people think about buying a home, spring and summer usually come to mind. But here on Vancouver Island, fall offers unique advantages that can make it an ideal season to house-hunt. If you’re considering a move, autumn could be the right time to find your next home—on your terms.

Less Competition, More Opportunity

By fall, the rush of summer buyers has slowed down. With fewer people competing for the same properties, you’ll often have more room to negotiate and a better chance of securing the home you want.

Motivated Sellers

Homes that remain on the market into fall often belong to sellers eager to close before the holidays or year-end. That motivation can work in your favour—whether through price adjustments, flexible timelines, or covering some closing costs.

See the Home in Real Conditions

Victoria’s mild but rainy fall weather can highlight things you wouldn’t notice in summer. From drafty windows to soggy lawns, autumn showings give you a clearer picture of how a home really performs.

Faster, Smoother Closings

With fewer transactions in the pipeline, lenders, inspectors, and lawyers typically have more availability. That can mean a less stressful, faster closing compared to the busy spring market.

What to Look for When Buying in Fall

When viewing homes this season, pay attention to:

• Roof & Gutters – Look for missing shingles or clogged gutters after fall rains.

• Heating System – Ask for furnace or heat pump maintenance records.

• Windows & Insulation – Drafts are easier to notice when temperatures drop.

• Drainage – Check for pooling water near the foundation.

• Lighting – Shorter days make natural light and good indoor lighting even more important.

• Neighbourhood Atmosphere – Fall brings quieter routines, so you’ll get a true sense of traffic, noise, and community feel.

The Bottom Line

Buying a home in fall isn’t just about timing—it’s about opportunity. With motivated sellers, less competition, and the chance to see how a property performs in real West Coast weather, autumn can be one of the smartest seasons to make your move.

✨ Thinking about buying this fall in Victoria or the surrounding communities? Let’s connect—I’ll guide you through the process and help you find a home that fits your next chapter.

🏡 Click here to book a buyer consult or browse active listings now → search

Jacqueline Ross, REALTOR® 
Coldwell Banker Oceanside
(250) 415-5656
jac@yourvanislehome.com
Instagram | Facebook  
Get the newsletter!