One of the things I love most about working in and around Sidney is how connected the surrounding communities feel. You’re never far from something special — a great walk, a thoughtful local shop, or a place that reminds you why people choose this part of Vancouver Island in the first place.

Farmer’s Daughter, located just outside Sidney in Saanich, is one of those places.

If you haven’t been yet, it’s a locally loved shop known for its carefully curated selection of cheeses, pantry staples, and specialty food items — all chosen with intention and a strong connection to local producers.

Why Farmer’s Daughter Feels So “Island”

Farmer’s Daughter isn’t about rushing in and out. It’s the kind of place where you slow down, ask questions, and discover something new — whether that’s a local cheese, a small-batch condiment, or the perfect addition to a dinner with friends.

That slower, more thoughtful way of living is something I hear people say they’re looking for all the time — especially downsizers and newcomers considering Sidney. It’s not just about the house. It’s about the rhythm of daily life.

A Lifestyle Match for Sidney Living

Sidney has a unique charm — walkable streets, ocean views, independent shops, and a strong sense of community. Farmer’s Daughter fits beautifully into that lifestyle, even though it’s technically just outside town.

It’s the kind of spot Sidney residents happily make a short drive for — and one I often recommend to clients who are getting to know the area. These are the local gems that make settling in feel personal, not generic.

Why Local Businesses Matter in Real Estate

When I help someone move to Sidney or the surrounding areas, we always end up talking about more than listings and floorplans. We talk about where they’ll shop, where they’ll walk, where they’ll bring visiting family, and what will make the place feel like home.

Local businesses like Farmer’s Daughter are part of that story. They’re what turn a neighbourhood into a community.

Local Love, Always

Supporting local businesses is something I care deeply about — both personally and professionally. They’re part of what makes living on the Saanich Peninsula and in Sidney so special.

If you’re new to the area or simply looking to explore more of what’s nearby, Farmer’s Daughter is well worth a visit.

And if you’re thinking about making a move to Sidney — or just starting to explore what life here could look like — I’m always happy to share not just market insight, but the places that make this community feel like home.

Jacqueline Ross, REALTOR®
Your Van Isle Home
(250) 415-5656
jac@yourvanislehome.com
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Helping you find home — and community — here in Victoria, BC.

What January’s numbers, inventory levels, and interest rates mean for buyers and sellers.

As we move further into early 2026, the Victoria real estate market continues to settle into a more balanced and predictable rhythm after several years of uncertainty. With January sales now reported and interest rates holding steady, we’re seeing conditions that feel calmer, more intentional, and easier to navigate for both buyers and sellers.

The Economic Backdrop

On January 18, the Bank of Canada announced it would hold its overnight rate steady. This reflects an economy that is gradually cooling without showing signs of major stress. Inflation has continued to ease, employment remains relatively strong, and recent GDP numbers have been inconsistent month to month.

Most major banks expect the overnight rate to remain near 2.25% through much of 2026. While rates are lower than they were a year ago, the bigger shift is stability. That predictability is helping buyers plan more confidently and giving sellers greater clarity around demand.

Greater Victoria Market – January 2026

According to the Victoria Real Estate Board, 339 properties sold across the region in January. This was down from January 2025 and slightly below December, following typical seasonal patterns.

Condominium sales declined year over year, with 109 units sold.
Single family home sales also dipped compared to last January, with 153 homes sold.

Inventory remains the standout story. At the end of January, there were 2,624 active listings on the MLS®, up from both December and the same time last year. This increase in supply is easing upward pressure on pricing and giving buyers more choice than they’ve had in several years.

Board Chair Fergus Kyne noted that the market is currently sitting between balanced and buyer-leaning conditions. While one month doesn’t establish a long-term trend, January offered more selection for buyers and clearer expectations for sellers.

Pricing Trends in Victoria

Benchmark prices continue to adjust modestly. The MLS® Home Price Index benchmark value for a single family home in the Victoria Core was down approximately 2.5% compared to January last year, though prices did rise slightly from December. 

Condominium benchmark values were down about 1.5% year over year and softened from December levels.

Overall, this reflects a market that is adjusting rather than correcting, with values supported by long-term demand and improved affordability compared to recent years.

What This Means for Buyers and Sellers

For buyers, today’s market offers more choice, less competition, and stable borrowing conditions — creating space to make thoughtful decisions instead of rushed ones. Local mortgage professional Paul Macara of Macara Mortgages notes that uncertainty doesn’t automatically mean risk. When confidence is lower, buyers often gain more time to negotiate and focus on fit: the right home, the right payment, and the right mortgage structure.

“When the headlines feel noisy, the goal is simple: make sure your mortgage plan still fits your life.”
— Paul Macara, Mortgage Professional, The Mortgage Group

If you’d like an introduction to the team at The Mortgage Group, I’m always happy to connect you so you can explore your options with clarity and confidence.

For sellers, this is a market that rewards preparation, strong presentation, and realistic pricing. Buyers are moving more intentionally, and understanding how your specific neighbourhood is performing matters more than ever.

Whether you’re buying, selling, or reviewing your mortgage options, this market is less about reacting to headlines and more about making decisions that align with your longer-term plans. 

Looking Ahead to 2026

As the year continues, earlier interest rate cuts are beginning to bring some buyers back into the market, particularly those who paused during periods of uncertainty. At the same time, higher inventory levels and affordability considerations are keeping price growth in check.

Most experts are forecasting steady, measured improvement rather than a rapid rebound — a healthier pace for long-term market stability.

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 to me at anytime 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.

Following the most recent interest rate announcement from the Bank of Canada where it was announced that the overnight rate would remain at 2.25%, many buyers and sellers are wondering the same thing: What does this actually mean for me?

Rather than reacting to headlines, the real opportunity right now lies in understanding how today’s interest rate environment affects your timing, your options, and your overall strategy — especially if you’re buying, selling, or considering downsizing.

If You’re Buying a Home

A more stable interest rate environment can make it easier to plan ahead. When rates aren’t moving rapidly, buyers often feel more confident about budgeting and long-term affordability.

That said, buying power still varies from person to person. Income, down payment, mortgage type, and future plans all play a role. My job is to help you understand what today’s rates mean for you specifically — and how to move forward in a way that feels comfortable and well thought out.

If You’re Selling a Home

For sellers, rate stability can help support buyer confidence. When buyers aren’t worried about sudden increases in borrowing costs, they’re often more willing to move ahead — provided the home is priced and positioned correctly.

This is where strategy matters most. I help sellers understand how today’s market conditions influence pricing, timing, and buyer behaviour, so you’re not leaving decisions to guesswork.

If You’re Thinking About Downsizing

Downsizing is rarely about urgency. More often, it’s about lifestyle, simplicity, and peace of mind.

The current interest rate environment can be especially helpful for downsizers because it allows time to plan thoughtfully. Many downsizers are selling and buying at the same time, which means interest rates affect both sides of the move.

I help downsizers:

• Plan the sale of their current home without pressure

• Understand what monthly costs may look like in their next home

• Explore options such as buying with cash, porting a mortgage, or using light financing

• Coordinate timing so the transition feels smooth, not rushed

Having a clear plan can make downsizing feel empowering rather than overwhelming.

Mortgage Advice Is a Key Part of the Conversation

Interest rates don’t exist in isolation — how they affect you depends on the mortgage options available to you.

I work closely with trusted mortgage broker partners who can explain financing options clearly, compare fixed and variable scenarios, and help plan renewals, refinances, or next steps. If you’d like, I’m always happy to make a warm introduction — no pressure, just good information.

Let’s Talk About What This Means for You

Whether you’re buying, selling, downsizing, or simply planning ahead, you don’t need to navigate interest rate changes on your own.

If you’d like help understanding how the latest interest rate announcement affects your situation — or if you’d like an introduction to a great mortgage broker — reach out anytime. I’m here to help you move forward with clarity, confidence, and a plan that fits your life.

Jacqueline Ross, REALTOR® 
Coldwell Banker Oceanside
(250) 415-5656
jac@yourvanislehome.com
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Simple steps that protect your home—and its value

Winter on Vancouver Island doesn’t usually bring extreme cold, but it does bring moisture, condensation, and higher energy use. These are the quiet issues that can impact a home over time if left unchecked. The good news? A few simple habits and small maintenance tasks can make a real difference—both for comfort now and long-term value down the road.

Here’s what actually matters during the winter months.

Moisture Control: The Silent Issue Most Homeowners Miss

Moisture is one of the biggest contributors to long-term home damage, especially in coastal climates. Excess humidity can lead to condensation, mould, and deterioration of finishes and window frames.

What to watch for:

• Condensation on windows, especially in the mornings

• Musty smells in bathrooms, closets, or lower levels

• Dampness around window sills or exterior walls

What helps:

• Run bathroom and kitchen fans during and after use

• Open blinds or curtains during the day to allow airflow

• Use a dehumidifier in problem areas if needed

Managing moisture now helps protect drywall, flooring, windows, and indoor air quality over time.

Heating: Comfort Without Overworking Your System

Winter is when heating systems work the hardest. Keeping things efficient doesn’t require a major upgrade—just a bit of attention.

Simple winter checks:

• Replace or clean furnace filters regularly

• Make sure vents and baseboard heaters aren’t blocked

• Set thermostats consistently instead of frequent ups and downs

Even small adjustments can reduce strain on your system, lower energy costs, and extend the life of your equipment.

Ventilation: Fresh Air Matters More Than You Think

In colder months, homes tend to stay sealed up, which traps moisture and stale air inside. Balanced ventilation helps regulate humidity and keeps indoor air healthier.

Easy habits that help:

• Run fans daily, even for short periods

• Crack a window briefly when weather allows

• Ensure vents and fans are actually venting outside

Good ventilation supports both comfort and long-term home condition—especially in kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry areas.

Small Tasks That Protect Long-Term Value

These quick winter check-ins don’t take much time, but they add up when it comes to resale and overall home health.

Worth doing:

• Check weather stripping around doors and windows

• Clear exterior drains and gutters after heavy rain

• Watch for minor leaks or drafts and address them early

Homes that are consistently cared for—especially in winter—tend to show better and sell better when the time comes.

Simple Energy-Saving Habits

You don’t need a full energy retrofit to be more efficient this winter.

Try this:

• Lower your thermostat slightly overnight

• Use heavier curtains in the evenings

• Turn off unused electronics and lights

These small changes can noticeably reduce monthly costs while keeping your home comfortable.

A Seasonal Reminder

Winter home care is less about big projects and more about staying ahead of the quiet issues. A little awareness now can prevent costly repairs later—and helps protect the value you’ve built over time.

If you ever want a second set of eyes on how your home is performing, or you’re thinking ahead to selling or downsizing, I’m always happy to chat.

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.