If you’re new here, Local Love is where I highlight businesses around Greater Victoria that genuinely stand out—places that aren’t just offering a service, but creating an experience and a sense of connection.

And this one is personal.

✨ Celebrating 2 Years of Beam Beauty & Wellness

Located in Belmont Market in the WestShore, Beam Beauty & Wellness is celebrating its two-year anniversary—and after spending time there, it’s easy to see why they’ve built such a strong and loyal client base.

From the moment you walk in, there’s a calm, welcoming energy. It doesn’t feel clinical or transactional—it feels intentional. And that comes from Kat.

🤍 More Than Treatments—A Sense of Community

There are a lot of places you can go for skin treatments. But not all of them make you feel comfortable, informed, and genuinely cared for.

What stands out most at Beam isn’t just the quality of the services—it’s the sense of community Kat has created. You’re not rushed. You’re not pressured. You’re guided.

That matters—especially when you’re trusting someone with your skin. And it shows up in the details, too.

During their anniversary celebration, they supported other local businesses by sharing coffee and treats from Rhino Coffee House and a beautiful cake from Cordova Bay Cake Company—a small touch that says a lot about how they operate.

✨ Treatments I’ve Personally Tried

I don’t recommend places lightly—especially when it comes to skin. Here are a few of the treatments I’ve experienced at Beam:

Laser Hair Removal
A long-term solution that’s been worth it—especially heading into warmer months.

Lumecca (IPL)
This one has been a standout. Lumecca is designed to target pigmentation like sun spots and uneven skin tone, leaving your skin looking clearer, brighter, and more even.

👀 What’s New at Beam

Beyond their core treatments, Beam is continuing to expand into more advanced wellness services—including options that support things like hormonal balance and overall well-being.

If you’ve been curious about where skin care meets wellness, this is definitely a space to start asking questions and exploring what’s possible.

🎥 Watch My Visit

Here’s a quick look inside and why this place has become my go-to:

👉 Local Love: Beam Beauty & Wellness

📍 Why It Matters (Especially If You’re New to the Area)

If you’re moving to—or settling into—the WestShore, finding trusted services can take time. Places like Beam make that easier. Not just because of what they offer, but because of how they make you feel when you’re there.

And that’s what Local Love is all about.

💬 Final Thoughts

Two years in, Beam Beauty & Wellness has clearly built more than a client list—they’ve built a community.

If you’ve been thinking about doing something for your skin, this is one of those places where you can feel confident you’re in the right hands.

Looking for more hidden gems around the Island? Stay tuned—there’s more coming

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

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

A More Balanced Spring Market Takes Shape

As we move into spring, the Greater Victoria real estate market is following a familiar seasonal pattern—activity is building, inventory is rising, and conditions are becoming more balanced.

A total of 579 properties sold in March 2026, which is 24.5% higher than February, but 5.5% lower than March 2025. This tells us the market is active, but without the urgency and pressure we saw in previous years.

Breaking it down further:

• 285 single-family homes sold (down 2.4% year-over-year)

• 164 condominiums sold (down 18.8% year-over-year)

At the same time, inventory continues to expand.

There were 3,261 active listings at the end of March, up 12.3% from February and 7.9% higher than March 2025—giving buyers more choice and helping create more balanced conditions overall.

Home Prices: Holding Steady with Subtle Shifts

Pricing in Victoria remains relatively stable, with small year-over-year adjustments and slight month-over-month gains.

• The benchmark price for a single-family home in the Victoria Core is now $1,330,200, down 1.1% year-over-year, but up from February

• The benchmark price for a condominium is $553,800, down 0.8% year-over-year, also increasing from the previous month

This tells us we’re not in a declining market—we’re in a stabilizing one.

The Economic Backdrop: Why This Matters

The real estate market doesn’t operate in a vacuum—and right now, the broader economy is playing a major role.

In mid-March, the Bank of Canada held its overnight rate steady, signaling a cautious approach as inflation continues to cool.

What this means:

• Borrowing costs are stable for now

• Buyers are gaining confidence to re-enter the market

• Sellers are seeing more serious, qualified buyers

At the same time, Canada is experiencing one of the largest mortgage renewal waves in decades.

Many homeowners are now:

• Renewing into higher rates

• Reassessing monthly affordability

• Exploring refinancing options

• Considering downsizing or lifestyle changes

What This Means If You’re Buying

This is one of the most balanced markets we’ve seen in recent years.

Buyers now have:

• More inventory and selection

• More time to evaluate properties

• Greater ability to include conditions

• Less pressure to compete

That said, desirable and well-priced homes are still moving quickly.

The opportunity right now:
Make informed, thoughtful decisions—without the pressure of a peak market.

What This Means If You’re Selling

The market is active—but buyers are more selective.

Today’s buyers are:

• Price-conscious

• Well-informed

• Less willing to overlook issues

Homes that are:

• Well-prepared

• Strategically priced

• Clearly positioned

…are still selling successfully.

The key right now:
Pricing and presentation matter more than ever.

What This Means If You’re Renewing or Refinancing

This is one of the biggest shifts happening in the market right now.

If you’re approaching a mortgage renewal, you may be facing higher rates than your previous term.

This is a good time to explore:

• Refinancing strategies

• Adjusting amortization

• Accessing equity

• Downsizing to reduce monthly costs

Having a plan early can make a significant difference.

A Note for Downsizers

This current market creates a unique opportunity for downsizers.

With more inventory available and less competition, you have:

• More choice when it comes to condos and townhomes

• More time to explore options

• Greater ability to coordinate your sale and purchase

At the same time, well-maintained homes in established neighbourhoods continue to attract strong interest.

For many, this is an ideal moment to:

• Simplify your home and reduce maintenance

• Unlock equity

• Move closer to amenities, family, or community

The Bottom Line

We’re in a more stable, opportunity-driven market—not a chaotic one.

That’s good news.

It means:

• Buyers can plan more carefully

• Sellers can still achieve strong results—with the right strategy

• Homeowners have options, even in a shifting rate environment

Thinking About Your Next Step?

Whether you're buying, selling, or planning ahead for a renewal, I’m here to help you navigate your next move with clarity and confidence.

👉 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

Helping you find home — and community — here in Victoria, BC.

If your mortgage is coming up for renewal this year, you’re not alone. In fact, Canada is entering one of the largest mortgage renewal waves in decades.

According to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, approximately 1.15 million mortgages will renew in 2026, representing nearly 60% of all outstanding mortgages across the country.

Many of these mortgages were originally secured when interest rates were much lower. As a result, homeowners are now starting to ask an important question:

What will my new payment look like?

To help break this down, I spoke with Paul Macara, Mortgage Professional and a trusted partner I regularly refer clients to, who shared some helpful insights about what homeowners should be thinking about as renewal approaches.

Why Starting Early Matters

Mortgage renewal is one of the few times you can make changes to your mortgage without penalties.

Paul explains that most lenders now send renewal notices three to six months before the maturity date, which gives homeowners an important window to review their options.

Starting early allows you to:

• Compare lender offers
• Understand what your new payment might look like
• Explore options like refinancing or adjusting your mortgage structure
• Avoid being rushed into an automatic renewal

Even if you ultimately stay with your current lender, reviewing your options ahead of time provides clarity and removes uncertainty.

Understanding “Payment Shock”

One of the biggest concerns many homeowners are facing right now is payment shock — the jump in monthly payments when a mortgage renews at today’s higher interest rates.

Before making any decisions, it helps to understand the numbers clearly.

Paul often recommends looking at scenarios such as:

• What your new payment could be at current rates
• Whether extending your amortization could reduce monthly payments
• Whether refinancing could improve cash flow or consolidate higher-interest debt

While extending amortization can lower monthly payments, it may increase the total interest paid over time. That’s why reviewing the full picture is important.

For homeowners with strong equity positions, refinancing may also offer opportunities to restructure debt or improve financial flexibility.

Renewal Is About More Than Just the Rate

It’s natural to focus on the interest rate at renewal, but the features of a mortgage can be just as important.

Prepayment privileges, penalties, portability, and flexibility can all impact how well your mortgage works for your lifestyle and financial goals.

Sometimes a slightly higher rate with better flexibility can actually provide more peace of mind over the life of the mortgage.

Mortgage renewal is also a chance to step back and ask an important question:

Does this mortgage still fit where I’m headed next?

Thinking About Your Next Move?

If your mortgage is coming up for renewal this year, it’s worth reviewing your options well before the deadline.

I often connect my clients with Paul Macara, a mortgage professional I trust who takes the time to walk homeowners through their numbers and help them understand their choices clearly.

If you'd like an introduction to Paul for a renewal review, feel free to reach out to me and I’d be happy to connect you.

Planning ahead can make the entire process smoother — and potentially save you money.

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

Helping you find home — and community — here in Victoria, BC.

One of the best parts of living in Victoria, BC is discovering the small local businesses that make everyday life here feel special. From farmers markets to neighbourhood cafés, Vancouver Island is full of locally owned shops that bring personality and community to the region.

In this edition of my Local Love series, I stopped by Victoria Olive Oil Co to connect with owner Cherilee and see what’s new in the shop.

If you enjoy cooking, entertaining, or finding thoughtful gifts, this is a place worth knowing.

Watch the Local Love Feature

🎥 Watch the short video here:
👉 https://youtube.com/shorts/xDkPd9brm6s 

What Makes Victoria Olive Oil Co Special

Victoria Olive Oil Co & Gourmet Foods has become a favourite destination for food lovers in Victoria. The shop specializes in premium extra virgin olive oils and aged balsamic vinegars sourced from around the world.

Visitors can sample a wide range of flavours and learn how different oils and vinegars can elevate everyday cooking.

Some highlights include:

• Seasonal infused olive oils
• Rich, aged balsamic vinegars
• Gourmet pantry items
• Beautiful custom gift baskets
• Perfect hostess or housewarming gifts

Whether you’re preparing a meal for friends or looking for a unique local gift, the shop offers something special.

A Perfect Stop for Entertaining and Gift Giving

Many of my clients are surprised by how many locally owned specialty food shops exist across Victoria and the Saanich Peninsula.

Victoria Olive Oil Co is one of those places that makes entertaining easy. Their gift baskets are especially popular for:

• housewarming gifts
• hostess gifts
• holiday entertaining
• corporate or client gifts

Supporting businesses like this is one of the reasons living on Vancouver Island feels so connected to the community.

Living in Victoria Means Discovering Local Gems

When people move to Victoria, they often focus on finding the right home or neighbourhood. But what truly makes a place feel like home are the businesses, cafés, markets, and shops that shape daily life.

From Sidney to the Westshore, Vancouver Island has an incredible network of independent businesses that bring character to the community.

That’s exactly why I started the Local Love series — to highlight the people and places that make living here so enjoyable.

Thinking About Moving to Victoria BC?

If you're considering a move to Victoria, BC or exploring neighbourhoods across Vancouver Island, I’m always happy to share local recommendations and insights about the communities here.

Visit YourVanIsleHome.com to learn more about:

• moving to Victoria BC
• neighbourhood guides
• local lifestyle recommendations
• real estate opportunities across the region

And follow along for more Local Love features highlighting the businesses that make this community so special.

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

Sales Rebound, Inventory Grows & Balanced Conditions Firmly Take Hold

Through February, both the broader Canadian economy and the Greater Victoria housing market continued settling into a more stable and predictable rhythm after several years of rapid change.

We are no longer in a volatility-driven market.
We are in a strategy-driven one.

The Economy at a Glance

On January 28, the Bank of Canada held its key overnight rate at 2.25%, reinforcing stability in borrowing costs.

Nationally, economic growth has softened. GDP contracted in the final quarter of 2025 — the slowest annual growth since 2020 — with trade uncertainty and slowing manufacturing output contributing to weaker momentum.

The labour market remains mixed. While employment has shown resilience in some sectors, elevated unemployment levels and cautious hiring have tempered consumer confidence.

The key takeaway for homeowners and buyers alike is this: interest rates are steady and economic signals are clearer. Stability — even modest stability — reduces uncertainty and allows households to plan.

Greater Victoria Market – February 2026

February marked a noticeable shift locally.

A total of 465 properties sold across the Victoria Real Estate Board region.

That represents:
• 37.2% more sales than January 2026
• 11.9% fewer sales than February 2025

The year-over-year decline reflects normalization from stronger 2025 activity. The significant month-over-month increase signals spring momentum building.

Property Type Breakdown

Single Family Homes
206 sold
↓ 12% compared to February 2025

Condominiums
154 sold
↓ 19.8% compared to February 2025

Townhomes
66 sold
↑ 11.9% compared to February 2025

Townhomes were the only segment to see year-over-year growth, suggesting continued demand for mid-range housing options.

Inventory: The Defining Story

At the end of February, there were 2,903 active listings on the Victoria Real Estate Board MLS®.

That is:
• Up 10.6% from January 2026
• Up 10.4% from February 2025 (2,630 listings last year)

This rising inventory is what has moved our market firmly into balanced territory.

A balanced market means:
• Buyers have choice
• Sellers face competition
• Pricing matters more than urgency

We are no longer in scarcity conditions. But we are also not in a buyer’s market oversupply environment.

Prices in the Victoria Core

The MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) benchmark values tell a very steady story.

Single Family Home Benchmark
February 2025: $1,319,100
February 2026: $1,307,400
↓ 0.9% year over year
↑ From January’s $1,265,500

Condominium Benchmark
February 2025: $549,600
February 2026: $545,600
↓ 0.7% year over year
↑ From January’s $537,800

Townhome benchmark (Victoria Core): $842,800

The key detail: both single-family and condo benchmarks increased from January levels.

That signals stabilization — not decline.

Prices are not accelerating rapidly.
They are adjusting gradually and holding relatively steady.

What This Means for Buyers

Buyers are operating in a healthier environment than we’ve seen in years.

With nearly 3,000 listings available, there is more time to compare properties and negotiate thoughtfully.

Interest rates are stable. Inventory is elevated. Competition is measured.

However, well-priced homes in desirable neighbourhoods still attract attention quickly. Preparation and clarity remain advantages.

Balanced does not mean slow — it means strategic.

What This Means for Sellers

Demand is present — but it is selective.

The 37% jump in sales from January shows buyers are active as we approach spring. But with more inventory available, pricing and presentation are critical.

Testing the market is risky.
Entering strategically is effective.

Balanced conditions reward sellers who understand positioning.

Mortgage Renewals & Refinancing

Even if you are not planning to move, this market matters — especially if you have a mortgage renewal approaching.

Many homeowners who secured ultra-low fixed rates several years ago are now renewing at higher rates. While the Bank of Canada has held its key rate steady, payments may increase for some households at renewal.

Reviewing your renewal strategy early can provide flexibility and clarity.

If helpful, I’m happy to connect you with a trusted mortgage professional to explore renewal options, refinancing strategies, or simply review your numbers before your term comes up.

Looking Ahead to Spring 2026

February’s activity suggests we are entering spring with:

• Rising inventory
• Stabilizing prices
• Renewed month-over-month sales momentum
• Balanced market conditions

We are not seeing rapid appreciation.
We are not seeing distress.

We are seeing normalization.

For move-up buyers, downsizers, and long-term planners, balanced markets often create some of the best opportunities — because both sides of the transaction operate under similar conditions.

If you’d like a deeper breakdown of what this means specifically for your neighbourhood — Sidney, the Peninsula, Westshore, Victoria Core — I’m always happy to provide a personalized update.

If you’re considering a move — whether upsizing, downsizing, or relocating within Greater Victoria — planning early will create the strongest outcome.

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

Helping you find home — and community — here in Victoria, BC.