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.

As 2025 wrapped up, the Victoria real estate market closed the year with steady fundamentals, balanced pricing, and inventory levels that continue to shape buyer and seller behaviour heading into 2026.

According to the Victoria Real Estate Board market report released January 2, 2026, a total of 367 properties sold in December, down 12.8% from December 2024 and 18.6% fewer than November 2025. As expected for the holiday season, activity slowed, particularly in the condominium segment.

December 2025 Sales Breakdown

Condominium sales declined 21.5% year over year, with 106 units sold. Single family home sales were more stable, decreasing just 2.6% from December 2024, with 186 homes sold. While December activity softened, it followed a relatively consistent year overall.

2025 in Review

Across the full year, 6,918 properties sold in 2025, representing a modest 0.36% increase compared to 2024. This reinforces what many buyers and sellers experienced firsthand: a market that remained active, but far more balanced than in previous peak years.

Victoria Real Estate Board Chair Fergus Kyne noted that inventory played a key role throughout 2025, with the second-highest number of new listings on record entering the market. Increased choice allowed buyers more time and flexibility, while sellers benefited from clearer pricing expectations and more predictable timelines.

Inventory Levels: What They Tell Us

At the end of December, 2,544 active listings were available across the region. While that represented a 19.3% drop from November (a typical seasonal decline), it was still 11.1% higher than December 2024. This higher year-over-year inventory continues to support a more measured, informed market for both sides.

Pricing Trends Across Property Types

Benchmark prices showed some divergence depending on location and housing type:

• The Victoria Core single family home benchmark declined 4.7% year over year to $1,255,000, and was down 1.7% from November.
• Condominium benchmark values increased slightly year over year to $549,900, though they dipped 0.6% from November.

Regionally, single family home values softened in the Victoria Core, while parts of the Westshore saw modest gains. Condo prices remained relatively flat across most areas.

What This Means If You’re Buying Right Now

For buyers, today’s market offers more choice, less urgency, and better negotiating conditions than we’ve seen in years. Higher inventory levels mean buyers can take time to compare options, assess value, and make decisions that align with long-term goals rather than short-term pressure. Winter also tends to bring more motivated sellers, which can create opportunities for well-prepared buyers.

What This Means If You’re Selling Right Now

For sellers, success in this market depends on pricing accuracy, presentation, and strategy. Buyers are paying close attention to value and condition, and well-presented homes that are priced appropriately continue to perform well. Understanding micro-market trends by neighbourhood and property type is key, especially as we move toward the spring market.

Looking Ahead to 2026

Inventory levels will continue to play a major role in shaping market conditions this year. Whether you’re planning to buy, sell, or downsize, having a clear understanding of local pricing trends and buyer behaviour will help you move forward with confidence.

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.

Victoria shines in December — literally. The whole city glows with lights, music, and community warmth, and some of the best things to do this season are entirely free. Whether you’re new to the Island or simply soaking up the magic, here’s your Local Love guide to the most festive no-cost activities across Greater Victoria.

1. Inner Harbour Holiday Lights

December transforms the Inner Harbour into a glowing postcard. Parliament, the Empress, and the marina sparkle every night — and it’s completely free. Grab a hot chocolate, stroll the waterfront, and soak in the atmosphere.
Best time: just after sunset.

https://gvha.ca/events/harbour-holiday-light-up/

2. Lights of Wonder

Check out Lights of Wonder - Downtown Victoria’s most photo-worthy holiday event at Centennial Square November 29 – December 31! Catch live entertainment on stage Friday and Saturday nights. Snap unforgettable holiday photos with family, friends, and even your pup. Don’t miss the return of the Ferris wheel, opening December 19.

https://downtownvictoria.ca/lights-of-wonder/

3. Sidney’s Seaside Lights & Beacon Avenue Stroll

Sidney goes all-in on holiday lights every year. Take a walk along Beacon Avenue, enjoy the decorated storefronts, and wander the waterfront promenade by the pier.

Bonus: Many shops offer free tastings or cookie samples on select days.

https://www.exploresidney.ca/holidays/

4. Esquimalt’s 2025 Christmas Tree Village

Esquimalt is one of the most underrated places for holiday magic. Experience the magic of the holidays at the tenth annual Christmas Tree Village.The Recreation Centre Atrium and Archie Browning Sports Centre is transformed into a holiday wonderland, teeming with twinkling lights and delightful decorations.

https://www.esquimalt.ca/ChristmasTreeVillage

5. Oak Bay Village Holiday Windows

Oak Bay’s boutique shops create beautiful window displays throughout December. It’s festive, friendly, and walkable — and with the smell of fireplaces drifting through the village, it feels like a small-town Hallmark movie.

And On the first Saturday of December the Island Equipment Owners Association Truck Parade & Food Drive, featuring over 80 brightly lit cement trucks, dump trucks and other heavy equipment comes through Oak Bay Village. Music, food collection from 5 PM at the Oak Bay Municipal Hall.

https://www.oakbay.ca/whats-happening/annual-events/christmas-in-oak-bay/

6. Beacon Hill Park Winter Walks

No cost, endless beauty. Wander through Beacon Hill Park, visit the ducks, enjoy quiet forest paths, and take in the views from Dallas Road. Crisp winter air + ocean scenery = perfection.

Park info:
https://www.victoria.ca/parks-recreation/parks-trails/our-parks/beacon-hill-park

7. Drive or Walk Through Festive Neighbourhoods

Local favourites you can walk or drive through:

https://www.timescolonist.com/life/greater-victoria-christmas-lights-map-4831091

Free, cheerful, and perfect for a pre-holiday drive.

8. Local Craft Markets

Victoria hosts multiple markets — and many offer free entry on certain days or after certain hours. Even if you’re not shopping, it’s a lovely way to support local makers and feel part of the community.

https://www.victoria.ca/community-culture/events

Local Love Wrap-Up

December in Victoria is less about spending and more about slowing down, wandering, and feeling part of this island community. Whether you’re exploring harbour lights or discovering new neighbourhood favourites, the magic is everywhere — and most of it is free.

If you're new to Victoria or thinking about calling this beautiful place home, exploring in December is the perfect way to get to know its heart.

And if you’d like help choosing a neighbourhood that fits your lifestyle — I’d love to guide you.

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.