July brought a familiar rhythm to Greater Victoria real estate. Sales activity stayed close to where it has been all summer, inventory continued to build, and buyers kept taking their time with the growing number of options in front of them. If June's numbers pointed toward a market finding its footing, July confirms it.

What sold in July

A total of 673 properties sold across the region in July, down just 1% from July 2025 and down 6.4% from June's 719 sales, a typical seasonal slowdown as summer settles in. Single family home sales actually rose, up 4.1% year over year with 331 sold. Condominium sales told a different story, down 7.1% year over year at 209 units, and townhome sales softened further, down 15.5% year over year with 82 sold. Victoria Real Estate Board Chair Fergus Kyne called it a solid month, noting that sales came in above the five year average for a typical July.

What inventory is doing

There were 3,847 active listings at the end of July, down 5.1% from June but still up 3.9% from this time last year. That gives buyers meaningfully more to choose from than they had a year ago and something worth sitting with. With this much choice available, some buyers are taking longer to decide, and a few are even feeling a little overwhelmed by the options in front of them. That is exactly where having someone in your corner who knows the market makes a real difference, helping you focus on what actually matters for your situation instead of getting lost in the noise.

Single family home prices by area

Single family benchmarks eased slightly across most of the region. The Victoria Core benchmark sits at $1,311,000, down 2.8% from July 2025 and down 1.2% from June's $1,326,500. The Westshore single family benchmark is $1,034,200, essentially flat year over year at down 0.3%, and up 1.1% from last month, making it one of the more stable pockets of the region right now. The Peninsula benchmark is $1,275,100, down 1.1% from last year. Across Greater Victoria as a whole, the single family benchmark is $1,170,200, down 1.6% year over year.

Condo prices by area

The condo market continues to see the most softening. The Core condo benchmark is $548,600, down 2.2% from July 2025. The Westshore condo benchmark sits at $493,600, down 1.8% year over year and down 2% from June alone. The Peninsula remains the outlier in the best possible way, with a condo benchmark of $618,900, up 1.2% from last year, the only area still moving in a positive direction. For anyone considering a condo purchase in the Core or Westshore, there is genuine room to negotiate right now.

Townhome prices by area

Townhomes are the one segment holding steady and even gaining ground. The Greater Victoria townhome benchmark is $795,900, up 0.8% year over year. The Core benchmark sits at $857,300, up 1.9% from last year. The Westshore townhome benchmark is $721,000, flat year over year. The Peninsula townhome benchmark is $842,100, up 0.7% from last year. Even with fewer townhomes changing hands this month, the ones that are selling are holding their value well.

What this means if you are buying

With inventory up nearly 4% from a year ago and condo sales down significantly, buyers have room to be selective, especially in the condo segment. That said, more choice can cut both ways. If you have been feeling a little overwhelmed scrolling through listings, that is normal, and it is exactly the kind of moment where a second set of eyes helps you separate what is genuinely a good fit from what just looks good in photos.

What this means if you are selling

Single family homes and townhomes are still performing well, particularly on the Peninsula, while condos are facing more competition for buyer attention. Pricing accurately from the start matters more in a market like this one, where buyers have the luxury of comparison. A home that is priced right and presented well is still finding a buyer, often quickly.

The market in plain terms

Greater Victoria remains in balanced territory, where neither buyers nor sellers hold a significant advantage overall. What is more useful than that headline number is understanding your specific segment. Single family and townhome sellers are in a healthier position than condo sellers right now, and buyers across every category have more time and more options than they have had in years.

Whether you are buying, selling, or your mortgage is coming up for renewal

Market shifts like these do not just affect people actively house hunting. If your mortgage is coming up for renewal in the months ahead, it is worth understanding how today's rates and your options compare to when you first signed. I work closely with Paul Macara, a mortgage broker I trust completely, and I am always happy to make that introduction, whether you are buying your first home, selling and moving on to the next one, or simply want to know where you stand before a renewal date arrives. There is no pressure and no obligation, just a clear picture of your options.

If you would like to talk through what any of this means for you specifically, reach out any time.

Jacqueline Ross, REALTOR®
Your Van Isle Home
call/text: 250-415-5656
jac@yourvanislehome.com
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One of the questions I hear most often, whether I am working with someone relocating to the Island or a client rightsizing into their next chapter, is whether to buy the home that is already done or the one with good bones and room to make it your own. It is rarely a simple answer, and the right choice depends as much on your finances as it does on the house itself.

This month's Mortgage Minute is from my trusted mortgage partner, Paul Macara. Paul works with my clients to make sure the numbers behind a purchase actually support the life they are planning, and his take on this question is one of the clearest I have read. I will let him take it from here.

(Article by Paul Macara, Mortgage Agent)

Every home search eventually runs into the same question:

Do you pay more for the house that already has the dream kitchen, finished basement, and updated bathrooms? Or do you buy the one that needs some work and make it your own over time?

It can be a harder decision than it first appears.

A move-in-ready home may come with fewer surprises, but it can also mean stretching your budget closer to its limit. A home that needs renovations may offer more room to customize, but the costs, timelines, and disruption can be difficult to predict.

The Appeal of a Move-In-Ready Home

For many buyers, the appeal of a finished home is certainty.

You know more about what you're getting. You may avoid months of renovation projects, contractor meetings, and unexpected delays. There's also less pressure to start spending money immediately after closing.

That certainty can be especially valuable for busy professionals, growing families, or anyone who simply wants to unpack and enjoy their new home.

The financial side still deserves careful thought, however. A higher purchase price can mean a larger mortgage payment, higher property taxes, and less room in the budget for furniture, emergencies, travel, or future life goals.

Where Renovations Can Make Sense

A home that needs work can be an opportunity, particularly if it's in a great location or the improvements can be completed gradually.

It may allow you to enter the market at a lower price point, build equity through improvements, and create a home that truly reflects your style and needs.

Renovations work best when the costs are realistic and there is enough flexibility in the budget to handle surprises. Timelines can stretch, materials and labour can cost more than expected, and not every improvement adds dollar-for-dollar value.

Buyers also need to think carefully about how the work will be funded, whether through savings, a line of credit, refinancing later, or a mortgage option that allows for improvements.

Compare the Full Cost, Not Just the Purchase Price

Before making an offer, it's worth comparing both paths clearly: the cost of buying a more finished home versus the cost of buying a lower-priced home and completing the work needed.

That comparison should include more than the purchase price.

• Monthly payments

• Available cash after closing

• Renovation costs

• Financing options

• Future flexibility

A home that needs work can be a fantastic opportunity, but only if the numbers still leave you comfortable after closing.

The best house isn't always the one that looks perfect on day one, it's the one that fits your financial goals and lifestyle for years to come.

If you are contemplating a purchase or renovation, let's review your full financial picture and connect you with any professionals needed to make the best decision for your personal situation.

Thank you, Paul, for such a clear and practical look at a question so many of my clients wrestle with. Connect with him here: Paul Macara, Mortgage Agent (250) 857-4741 paul@macaramortgages.com macaramortgages.com

Whether you are drawn to a home that is ready on day one or one you can shape into your own over time, the right answer starts with understanding both the numbers and the neighbourhood. That is where I come in. If you are thinking about a move anywhere in Greater Victoria, the Saanich Peninsula, Sidney, or the Westshore, I would love to help you weigh your options and find the home that truly fits your next chapter. Reach out anytime for a no pressure conversation about what is possible.

Jacqueline Ross, REALTOR®
Your Van Isle Home
call/text: 250-415-5656
jac@yourvanislehome.com
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April is one of those turning-point months in Victoria real estate. The energy shifts—more homes come to market, more buyers start looking seriously, and decisions that have been sitting quietly since winter begin to move forward.

If you’re wondering whether now is a good time to make a move (or even just thinking about it), here’s what I’m seeing on the ground right now.

More Listings, More Choice

We’re finally seeing inventory pick up across Greater Victoria, including Sidney, the Saanich Peninsula, and the WestShore.

For buyers, this means more options—and a bit of breathing room compared to the tighter conditions earlier this year.

But more choice doesn’t mean endless opportunity. The best homes are still standing out and attracting attention quickly.

Buyers Are More Thoughtful—But Still Acting

Buyers right now are taking a bit more time. They’re comparing options, revisiting homes, and making more considered decisions.

That said, when the right home comes along—well-priced, well-presented, and in a good location—they’re still stepping forward.

This is a more balanced market, but not a slow one.

Presentation Matters More Than Ever

With more listings to choose from, buyers are naturally comparing.

Homes that show well—clean, bright, and thoughtfully prepared—are the ones getting the strongest response.

This is especially important for downsizers or sellers who want to protect their value in a more competitive environment.

There’s Quiet Opportunity in Negotiation

One of the biggest shifts right now is happening behind the scenes.

We’re seeing more room for:

• Thoughtful offers

• Conditions that protect buyers

• Conversations that weren’t possible in more competitive markets

This doesn’t mean lowballing—it means strategy matters more than speed.

What This Means for You

For buyers:
You have more options right now—and the ability to make a thoughtful decision. But when the right home comes up, it’s still important to act with confidence.

For sellers:
Preparation and pricing strategy are key. The right approach can still generate strong interest and results.

Final Thoughts

Spring is often when plans start to take shape—even if the move itself happens later. If you’re thinking about downsizing, relocating, or making a change this year, this is a great time to start the conversation and understand your options.

👉 Reach out anytime for a conversation
👉 Or request your home value to see where you stand in today’s market

Jacqueline Ross, REALTOR®
Your Van Isle Home
250-415-5656
jac@yourvanislehome.com
Instagram | Facebook

As we move along in December, the Victoria real estate market shows a clear shift in pace. Sales slowed in November, inventory remained healthy, and the overall tone of the market leaned toward patience — offering more breathing room for buyers and a steady, balanced environment for sellers.

Here’s what you need to know.

Home Sales Down Compared to Last Year

A total of 451 properties sold across the Victoria Real Estate Board region in November 2025. This reflects:

• 18.1% fewer sales compared to November 2024 (551 sales)

• 26.9% fewer sales than October 2025

• Yet still higher activity than November 2022 and 2023, when sales dipped below 400

Sales varied by property type:

• Condo sales: 119 units sold (down 36% year-over-year)

• Single-family homes: 241 sold (down 8.4% year-over-year)

The Board notes this year-over-year comparison looks dramatic only because 2024 experienced an unusual late-year sales rally, which is not the norm for Victoria.

Inventory Eases, But Choices Remain Strong

At the end of November, there were 3,152 active listings, representing:

• 7.9% fewer listings than October 2025

• 11.1% more listings than November 2024

Buyers still have plenty of selection, but inventory is tightening slightly as we enter the winter season — a typical trend for Victoria.

Market Tone: Balanced, Patient, and Price-Sensitive

2025 VREB Chair Dirk VanderWal describes the November mood as “one of patience.”

• Buyers are taking their time.

• Sellers who price accurately and present their homes well are still seeing results.

• The market remains balanced, without the urgency of the early 2020s.

Different neighbourhoods and property types perform differently, so understanding where your home sits on the buyer–seller spectrum is key.

Benchmark Home Prices: Stable With Mild Movement

Single-Family Homes (Victoria Core)

• November 2024: $1,313,900

• November 2025: $1,276,700 (-2.8% year-over-year)

• Slight dip from October’s benchmark of $1,280,100

Condominiums (Victoria Core)

• November 2024: $542,100

• November 2025: $553,100 (+2% year-over-year)

• Up from October’s benchmark of $549,000

Condo values continue to hold steady, while single-family pricing shows mild softening — a trend aligned with broader affordability patterns.

What This Means for Buyers

• You have time and choice, especially compared to recent years.

• Well-priced homes still move quickly, particularly in the Core, Sidney, and Saanich East.

• If you're planning to buy in early 2026, now is a great moment to start conversations and get pre-approved before the January uptick.

What This Means for Sellers

• Presentation and pricing matter more than ever in a patient market.

• Buyers are thoughtful and selective — staging, photography, and market positioning are essential.

• A complimentary home evaluation can help you understand where your home sits in today’s balanced conditions.

I Can Help You Navigate This Market

Whether you’re planning to buy or sell in 2026, I’d love to walk you through what this market means for your specific plans.

➡️ Reach out anytime for a personalized market review or home evaluation 250-415-5656.

Jacqueline Ross
REALTOR® | Coldwell Banker Oceanside Real Estate
(250) 415-5656
jac@yourvanislehome.com
www.YourVanIsleHome.com
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Helping you find home — and community — here in Victoria, BC.

Buying your first home is one of the most exciting — and sometimes overwhelming — experiences in life.

When I bought my first home, I was thrilled, nervous, and completely consumed by the details. Like most first-time buyers, I had a budget, a dream list, and a lot of “what ifs.” Now, after years of helping clients through the same process, I can look back and say there are three big things I wish I’d known sooner.

If you’re thinking about taking the leap into homeownership in Victoria, these lessons might save you time, stress, and a few sleepless nights.

1️⃣ Neighbourhoods Matter More Than You Think

When I first started looking for a home, I was laser-focused on the house itself — layout, finishes, backyard size, and how close it was to work. What I didn’t fully appreciate was how much where you buy shapes how you live.

In Victoria, every neighbourhood has its own rhythm and character. Fernwood has that artsy, community feel; Cook Street Village offers endless walkability and cafés; Saanich is family-friendly with easy access to trails and parks; and Esquimalt is vibrant, coastal, and still surprisingly affordable.

Your neighbourhood becomes part of your everyday story — where you grab your morning coffee, walk your dog, or meet your neighbours at the market. The right fit isn’t just about the walls around you, it’s about the life you’ll build within and beyond them.

✨ Pro Tip: Before making an offer, spend a weekend exploring the area at different times of day. Grab lunch locally, chat with shop owners, and see if it feels like “you.”

💬 Looking for local insight? I love helping clients match their lifestyle to the right neighbourhood — not just the right home. Let’s chat about areas that may work well for you.

2️⃣ Hidden Costs Add Up

When I was budgeting for my first home, I focused on the down payment and mortgage — and completely underestimated the smaller costs that come with ownership.

Things like inspections, lawyer fees, insurance, moving costs, property transfer tax, and home maintenance all add up. None of these are deal-breakers, but they’re worth planning for so nothing catches you off guard.

When I work with first-time buyers now, one of the first things we do is map out a complete budget — not just for the purchase, but for those first few months of homeownership. That clarity changes everything.

💡 Pro Tip: Set aside 2–3% of your purchase price for closing and moving costs. It’s one of the simplest ways to stay ahead of surprises and enjoy a smoother transition.

📦 Need help building your first-home budget? I’ve created a “First Home Checklist” to guide you — download it free at YourVanIsleHome/buying.

3️⃣ You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

When you’re buying for the first time, it’s easy to feel like you need to figure everything out yourself — especially in a competitive market like Victoria. But here’s what I learned: having the right guidance makes all the difference.

A good REALTOR® doesn’t just unlock doors — they help you understand the process, ask the right questions, and make decisions that protect your long-term goals. They also connect you with trusted local professionals — mortgage brokers, inspectors, lawyers, and tradespeople — who become part of your support system.

One of my favourite parts of this job is walking my clients through the process step by step. Whether it’s celebrating a mortgage pre-approval, navigating an offer, or handing over the keys, every milestone matters — and it feels a lot less stressful when you have someone in your corner.

☕️ Buying your first home doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Let’s sit down, map out your goals, and create a plan that fits your life and your budget.

Final Thoughts

Buying a home for the first time is so much more than a financial decision — it’s the start of a new chapter.

Looking back, I wish I’d focused less on rushing the process and more on learning from people who’d already walked the path. Now, I get to be that person for others — helping newcomers and first-time buyers find not just a property, but a place to belong.

If you’re ready to explore your first home in Victoria, I’d love to help you start strong.

💛 Ready to Begin?

✅ Download your free Home Buying Guide
✅ Explore the latest listings at YourVanIsleHome.com
✅ Or book your First-Home Roadmap Session — a friendly, no-pressure chat about your next steps.

Because finding your home in Victoria should feel exciting, empowering, and full of possibility.

—
Jacqueline Ross

REALTOR® | Coldwell Banker Oceanside Real Estate
(250) 415-5656
jac@yourvanislehome.com
www.YourVanIsleHome.com
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Helping you find home — and community — here in Victoria, BC.

The Bank of Canada just lowered its key interest rate to 2.25%, marking the second cut in a row — and for anyone thinking about buying or refinancing, this could be a golden window of opportunity. Let’s break it down.

💡 What This Means for You

The central bank’s move makes borrowing slightly cheaper, especially for variable-rate mortgages and anyone renewing soon. It’s not a massive overnight drop in payments, but it does signal a more supportive lending environment.

If you’re buying:

• Lower rates can stretch your affordability just a bit further.

• A pre-approval now locks in a lower rate if things rise again.

• Victoria’s market is still steady, so being prepared helps you act fast when the right home appears.

If you’re refinancing:

• Your variable-rate mortgage may see a small payment dip.

• Fixed-rate borrowers can explore new terms when their mortgage renews.

• It’s worth reviewing break-even numbers with a trusted broker to see if a refinance saves you money.

🌊 Why It Matters in Victoria

Our market moves differently from the rest of the country — limited supply, coastal charm, and lifestyle demand keep things balanced. A rate cut doesn’t mean “cheap housing,” but it does mean a little more breathing room and opportunity for smart, strategic buyers and sellers.

Now is a great time to:

• Review your budget and ideal monthly payment

• Get pre-approved to stay ready

• Talk strategy with your REALTOR® and mortgage advisor team

💬 Let’s Chat

Whether you’re planning to buy, sell, or refinance, I’m here to guide you with the local insight, strategy, and heart it takes to make your next move confidently. And if you need a recommendation for trusted mortgage brokers who can help make sense of your financial options, I’m happy to connect you with them. 

📞 Let’s connect today — YourVanIsleHome.com
Because finding your home (and your people) in Victoria starts with a conversation.

Jacqueline Ross, REALTOR® 
Coldwell Banker Oceanside
(250) 415-5656
jac@yourvanislehome.com
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