I know you are curious about what's been happening in Victoria's real estate market, so I'm here to give you a clear picture of the latest trends. This post dives into the December 2024 sales activity and shares some important insights from the Victoria Real Estate Board Chair, Laurie Lidstone, on what we can expect in 2025.

December 2024 Market Highlights:

Let's look at the numbers:

• We saw a total of 421 properties sold in the Victoria Real Estate Board region this December.

• That's a 28% jump from the 329 properties sold in December 2023! That's great news!

• However, it's a 23.6% decrease from November 2024, showing the market is always dynamic.

• Condominium sales were up 25% from December 2023, with 135 units sold.

• Sales of single-family homes also increased by 20.9% from December 2023, with 191 sold.

• Over the entire year of 2024, a grand total of 6,893 properties changed hands—an 11% increase from the 6,207 sold in 2023.

What This Means for You (Buyers & Sellers):

I want to break down what these numbers mean for you, whether you're looking to buy or sell:

For Buyers:

• The increased sales activity tells me the market is active. This is great for choice, but be prepared to act fast on properties you love.

• Inventory is still relatively low, which can mean more competition for desirable homes. Let's work together to make your offer stand out.

• Recent government changes, like extended amortization periods for first-time buyers and adjustments to property transfer tax thresholds, are aimed at making homes more attainable. Let's explore how these can benefit you.

For Sellers:

• The good news is that prices have been relatively stable for the past two years, providing a more predictable market for you.

• The low inventory could work in your favour if demand picks up, which could put upward pressure on prices.

My Take on 2025 (and What the VREB Says):

Laurie Lidstone, the 2024 Victoria Real Estate Board Chair, summed it up well: "2024 was a fairly calm year for local real estate...a year of stability and predictability." This is exactly what we want for a healthy market! The VREB also mentioned that consistent interest rates will help people make moves. I agree – stability is key.

The VREB is also advocating for gentle density development, which will help with our long-term inventory challenges.

My Advice:

The market is influenced by many factors, and predicting the future is impossible. But with consistent interest rates and the possibility of increased demand against limited inventory, it is key to be prepared.

Call to Action:

Whether you're thinking about buying or selling in 2025, I'm here to help you navigate this complex market. As your local expert, I can create a personalized strategy for you and your property.

Contact me today for a free consultation!

A Few More Numbers:

• At the end of December 2024, there were 2,290 active listings. This is down 19.3% from November but up 7.4% from December 2023.

• The benchmark price for a single-family home in the Victoria Core in December 2024 was $1,306,400, a 2.7% increase from December 2023 ($1,272,000) and a slight 0.3% increase from November.

• The benchmark price for a condo in the Victoria Core in December 2024 was $547,800, a 1.6% decrease from December 2023 ($556,500) but a slight 0.6% increase from November.

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I'm here to help you achieve your real estate goals in Victoria!

– Jacqueline Ross

Jacqueline Ross
REALTOR®
Coldwell Banker Oceanside
250.415.5656
jac@yourvanislehome.com 
YourVanIsleHome.com
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The Victoria real estate market continues to evolve, and recent trends offer promising opportunities for both buyers and sellers. Here's what you need to know:

A Shift Towards Balance

The Victoria real estate market continues to evolve, and recent trends offer promising opportunities for both buyers and sellers. Here's what you need to know:

551 properties sold, 39.8% more than the 394 sold in November 2023 and down 15.7% from October 2024. Condos were up 55% from last month, with 186 units sold. Sales of single-family homes were up 36%, with 263 sold.

While the number of active listings has dipped slightly compared to October, providing some breathing room for buyers, the market still shows a 7.3% increase in listings compared to last year. This movement indicates a shift towards a more balanced market.

Benefits for Buyers & Sellers

This newfound stability creates a favourable environment for both buyers and sellers. Here's how you can capitalize on it:

For Buyers:

• Lower Interest Rates: Take advantage of recent interest rate decreases! Explore mortgage options and lock in a favourable rate. [Connect with me for a fantastic broker recommendation!] 

• Less Competition: A balanced market means fewer competing offers. Be prepared to act quickly on properties you love.

For Sellers:

• Competitive Pricing: Attract buyers with a realistic asking price that reflects the current market conditions.

• Strategic Presentation: Stage your home to showcase its best features and leave a lasting impression on potential buyers. Our proven marketing strategies can help you create that crucial first impression. [Ask me about our marketing expertise!] Sell the right way.

Navigating the Market with Confidence

Whether you're buying your dream home or selling your current property, navigating the real estate market can feel complex. I'm here to help you make informed decisions and achieve your goals.

Let's Connect!

Let's chat about your specific needs and discuss how I can guide you through the Victoria real estate market.

GET IN TOUCH

Jacqueline Ross, REALTOR® | 250.415.5656 | jac@yourvanislehome.com 

Winterize Your Home: Energy-Saving Tips for the Cold Months: As the temperature drops, it's time to turn up the heat on energy efficiency. By implementing a few simple strategies, you can significantly reduce your energy consumption and lower your utility bills. Here are some tips to help you winterize your home:

Insulation is Key

• Seal Air Leaks: Use caulk and weatherstripping to seal any gaps around windows, doors, and outlets.

• Insulate Attics and Walls: Proper insulation can dramatically reduce heat loss. Consider hiring a professional for a thorough insulation assessment.

• Upgrade Windows: Energy-efficient windows can significantly improve your home's insulation and reduce heat transfer.

Heating System Tune-Up

• Schedule a Professional Inspection: A yearly inspection can identify potential issues and ensure optimal performance.

• Change Your Filter Regularly: A clean filter improves airflow and reduces energy consumption.

• Consider a Programmable Thermostat: Set specific temperatures for different times of the day to save energy.

Water Heating Efficiency

• Lower the Temperature: A slightly lower water temperature can save energy without sacrificing comfort.

• Insulate Hot Water Pipes: Reduce heat loss and improve efficiency.

• Fix Leaky Faucets: Promptly repair leaky faucets to conserve water and energy.

Smart Appliance Choices

• Energy-Star Certified Appliances: These appliances are designed to be more energy-efficient, saving you money in the long run.

• Unplug Electronics: When not in use, unplug electronics to avoid phantom energy consumption.

Lifestyle Habits

• Layer Up: Wear warm clothing indoors to reduce the need for higher heating temperatures.

• Use Natural Light: Open curtains during the day to maximize natural light and reduce reliance on artificial lighting.

• Cook Smart: Use the stovetop efficiently and consider using a microwave or slow cooker for certain meals.

By implementing these energy-saving tips, you can create a cozy and energy-efficient home while reducing your environmental impact. Remember, small changes can lead to significant savings.

If you’re ready to start your search for an existing energy-smart home? Search here: https://yourvanislehome.com/

Contact me for more tips and tricks on making your home safe, energy-efficient and ready for winter and beyond:

Jacqueline Ross, REALTOR®
Coldwell Banker Oceanside
250.415.5656
YourVanIsleHome.com
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