The Blog

Spring is in the air, and so is the excitement of finding your dream home! 🌷 This is a prime time for the real estate market, but it can also be competitive. To help you navigate the spring home search with confidence, I've put together some essential tips and tricks.

1. Get Your Finances in Order 

• Pre-Approval is Key: Before you start your search, get pre-approved for a mortgage. This will give you a clear understanding of your budget and show sellers you're a serious buyer. I can point you to several professional mortgage brokers to find your best rate options.

• Down Payment & Closing Costs: Ensure you have your down payment and closing costs readily available.

2. Define Your Needs & Wants 

• Make a List: Create a list of your must-haves and nice-to-haves. This will help you narrow down your search and stay focused.

• Consider Your Lifestyle: Think about your lifestyle and what kind of home and neighbourhood will best suit your needs.

3. Find the Right Realtor (That's Me!)

• Local Expertise: A knowledgeable realtor with local expertise can make all the difference. I can provide valuable insights into the Victoria market and help you find the perfect home.

• Communication is Key: Choose a realtor who communicates effectively and is responsive to your needs.

4. Be Prepared to Act Quickly 

• Hot Market: In a competitive spring market, desirable properties can sell quickly.

• Stay Informed: Set up alerts for new listings and be prepared to view properties as soon as they become available.

5. Don't Skip the Inspection 

• Protect Your Investment: A thorough home inspection can uncover potential issues and save you from costly repairs down the road.

6. Embrace Flexibility 

• Be Open-Minded: Be open to considering different neighbourhoods or property types. You might be surprised at what you find.

7. Negotiate Strategically 

• Work with Your Realtor: I can help you craft a competitive offer and negotiate the best possible terms. I also have your back on a million other things during the buying phase.

Ready to Find Your Dream Home?

Spring is the perfect time to make your real estate dreams a reality. As your local Victoria Realtor®, I'm here to guide you every step of the way. Let's connect and find your perfect place!

Jacqueline Ross 
REALTOR®
Coldwell Banker Oceanside
250.415.5656
YourVanIsleHome.com
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The Greater Victoria real estate market has shown remarkable stability in February, offering a balanced landscape for both buyers and sellers. According to the Victoria Real Estate Board, February saw a total of 528 properties sold, marking a 12.3% increase compared to February 2024 and a significant 25.1% jump from January 2025. This steady activity, coupled with a growing inventory, paints a promising picture for the local market.

Key Highlights from February 2025:

• Increased Sales: Overall property sales surged, with condominium sales experiencing a notable 26.3% rise from February 2024 (192 units sold) and single-family home sales increasing by 4.5% (234 units sold).

• Growing Inventory: Active listings reached 2,630 at the end of February, indicating a 9.8% increase from January and an 11.3% rise from February 2024.

• Balanced Market: The combination of increased sales and growing inventory has created a balanced market, fostering comfortable conditions for both buyers and sellers.

• Stable Price Appreciation: The benchmark value for a single-family home in the Victoria Core increased by 3.7% year-over-year, reaching $1,309,500. Condominium benchmark values experienced a slight decrease of 0.5% year over year, settling at $551,900.

What This Means for Buyers:

• More Options: The increase in active listings provides buyers with a wider selection of properties to choose from, increasing the chances of finding the perfect home.

• Stable Prices: Nearly two years of steady prices combined with recent favourable interest rates provide a degree of confidence for buyers.

• Balanced Market: A balanced market means less pressure and a more relaxed buying experience. Buyers have more time to make informed decisions.

• Favourable Interest Rates: Recent favourable interest rates help with affordability.

What This Means for Sellers:

• Increased Sales Activity: The surge in sales indicates strong buyer demand, increasing the likelihood of a successful sale.

• Growing Market: A healthy increase in sales from the previous year, and the previous month shows market momentum.

• Balanced Market: A balanced market allows sellers to achieve fair market value for their properties.

• Importance of Proper Pricing and Presentation: Well-presented and properly priced properties are crucial for success in the current market.

Looking Ahead:

The Greater Victoria real estate market appears to be following its typical early spring cycle, with expectations of peak activity in late spring. The hope is that increased inventory will continue to meet consumer demand. However, the market remains sensitive to global economic policy changes, underscoring the importance of staying informed.

Navigating the Market with a REALTOR®:

In today's dynamic market, having a knowledgeable and experienced REALTOR® is essential. I can provide invaluable guidance, help you understand market trends, and navigate the complexities of buying or selling a home.

Ready to discuss how these market trends impact your real estate goals? Contact me today for personalized advice and expert guidance.

Jacqueline Ross 
REALTOR®
Coldwell Banker Oceanside
250.415.5656
YourVanIsleHome.com
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Spring is almost here, and that means the real estate market is heating up! 🌷 If you're thinking of selling your home, now is the time to get it ready for eager buyers. Here's your February checklist to maximize your sale price:

Declutter and Depersonalize

• Declutter EVERYWHERE: Buyers want to envision themselves in your space, not navigate through your belongings. Clear out closets, drawers, countertops, and any unnecessary furniture. Consider renting a storage unit if needed.

• Depersonalize: Pack away family photos, personal mementos, and anything that might distract buyers from seeing the home's potential.

• Deep Clean: A sparkling clean home makes a great first impression. Consider hiring professional cleaners for a thorough job. I can recommend some stellar cleaners!

• Organize Closets and Storage: Neat and tidy storage spaces show buyers that your home offers ample storage.

Boost Curb Appeal and Make Repairs

• Curb Appeal is King: First impressions matter! Tidy up the yard, clean up flowers and bushes, power wash the exterior, and ensure the front entrance is inviting.

• Minor Repairs Go a Long Way: Fix leaky faucets, touch up paint, and address any minor repairs that might deter buyers. Need a plumber? I’ve got several reputable and cost-effective recommendations.

• Stage for Success: Consider hiring a professional stager to showcase your home's best features and create an inviting atmosphere.

Price Right and Market Smart

• Pricing Strategy: Work with your realtor (me!) to determine the optimal listing price based on recent comparable sales and market conditions.

• Marketing Magic: High-quality photos and videos, virtual tours, and expertly targeted marketing will attract the right buyers.

Don't Wait, Get Started Today!

Click to get a free, comprehensive home evaluation and let's get your home ready for a successful spring sale! You’ll want to hear about the whole package and how I’ll leave no stone unturned to get you the most for your home this spring!

Free Home Evaluation

Jacqueline Ross, REALTOR®
Coldwell Banker Oceanside
250.415.5656
YourVanIsleHome.com
Instagram | Facebook  
Get the newsletter!