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Fall Home Tip: Preparing Your House or Condo for Winter

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

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Helping My Buyer Find Their Dream Home at 608-1159 Beach Dr, Oak Bay 🌊✨

I’m so excited to share that I recently represented the buyer on the purchase of a gorgeous property at 608–1159 Beach Drive in Oak Bay, officially sold on September 24, 2025.

This one was special. Tucked inside Hampshire House—a highly sought-after steel and concrete waterfront building with private beach access—this home offered exactly what my client was searching for: light, space, and the kind of views that instantly calm the soul.

The top-floor, corner unit spans over 1,200 sq. ft. with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a wrap-around covered deck. From nearly every main room, you’re treated to sweeping ocean and garden views, framed by lush greenery for privacy and serenity. Add in the charm of a cozy wood-burning fireplace, gleaming oak floors, and freshly updated bathrooms, and it was clear this home was the right fit.

Beyond the condo itself, the building is a gem - located right next door to the Oak Bay Beach Hotel & Spa and a short walk to the Victoria Golf Club, Oak Bay Marina, and the shops and cafés of Oak Bay Avenue. With thoughtful amenities like a guest suite, viewing lounge, workshop, free laundry, and bike storage, it’s the perfect blend of convenience and community.

Moments like this remind me why I love what I do—helping people find not just a property, but the home that feels like the one. Congratulations to my buyer on securing such a beautiful place to call home by the sea. 🌿🏡 🌊

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

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🎉 Just Sold! 201 – 830 Esquimalt Rd

I had the pleasure of representing the buyers in the purchase of this charming 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom condo tucked into a quiet corner of Esquimalt.

This bright and airy home offered the perfect blend of comfort and convenience, featuring stainless steel appliances, large windows that filled the space with natural light, and a private patio ideal for quiet mornings or evening unwinding. Just minutes from the heart of Esquimalt, it offered a peaceful retreat without sacrificing access to amenities.

Congratulations to my clients on securing this cozy gem!

👉 If you're thinking about making a move in Esquimalt or Greater Victoria, I’d love to help you find your perfect fit.

Are you dreaming of your own home? Let's turn that dream into an address! Contact me today, and let's start your homeownership journey together. 

Jacqueline Ross, REALTOR® 
Coldwell Banker Oceanside
(250) 415-5656
jac@yourvanislehome.com
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Just Sold! 11–3341 Mary Anne Crescent, Colwood, BC

Thrilled to have represented the buyers in the purchase of the largest end unit in this quiet 20-townhome complex.

This beautifully positioned home offered a unique blend of space, comfort, and scenic views. Inside, the warm, open layout featured a dining area and living room divided by a stunning quartz-and-marble gas fireplace. Sliding glass doors led to a generous sundeck with sweeping views of Mount Baker—a perfect backdrop for relaxing or entertaining. 👏 Congrats to my clients on securing this incredible home in such a peaceful setting!

👉 Looking to buy or sell in the Westshore? Let’s connect and map out your next move.

Are you dreaming of your own home? Let's turn that dream into an address! Contact me today, and let's start your homeownership journey together. 

Jacqueline Ross, REALTOR® 
Coldwell Banker Oceanside
(250) 415-5656
jac@yourvanislehome.com
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Sold: The Hudson, 240-770 Fisgard St in Victoria

I have sold a property at 240 770 Fisgard St in Victoria. Welcome to the sought-after historic Hudson Bay building. Exceptional one-bedroom and office home with soaring 15 ft ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows and engineered hardwood flooring. It features a beautiful kitchen design with quartz counters, Miele appliances & lots of cabinet space, and a high-end bathroom with a soaker tub/shower, terrazzo flooring & in-floor heat.

Shared amenities at the iconic Hudson building include a 14,000 sq ft rooftop deck with great views of the city, and underground parking with storage. This perfect location makes it easy to walk to anywhere downtown & access to the Hudson Market located right outside the doorstep.

Are you dreaming of your own home? Let's turn that dream into an address! Contact me today, and let's start your homeownership journey together. 

Jacqueline Ross, REALTOR® 
Coldwell Banker Oceanside
(250) 415-5656
jac@yourvanislehome.com
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Sold: The Sandpiper, 1201-1630 Quadra St, Victoria

I have sold a property at 1201 1630 Quadra St in Victoria. This sunny 12th-floor condo faces south, with beautiful views over the city to the ocean and the mountains. The Sandpiper is a well-maintained steel and concrete building with a caretaker and access to nearly every amenity downtown. Located a block away from Blanshard, this location offers quick access to Mayfair Mall, Uptown, and the Saanich Peninsula, avoiding the downtown traffic that is further south.

Are you dreaming of your own home? Let's turn that dream into an address! Contact me today, and let's start your homeownership journey together. 

Jacqueline Ross, REALTOR® 
Coldwell Banker Oceanside
(250) 415-5656
jac@yourvanislehome.com
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MLS® property information is provided under copyright© by the Vancouver Island Real Estate Board and Victoria Real Estate Board. The information is from sources deemed reliable, but should not be relied upon without independent verification.