In Victoria's real estate market, school catchments play a key role in determining home value. These boundaries decide which public school your child attends based on your address. Families often prioritize strong schools, so homes in desirable catchments attract more buyers and command higher prices. Even in 2026, with balanced market conditions, this factor remains strong. Parents seek quality education, shorter commutes, and better resale potential. How Catchments Drive Property Prices Homes inside popular school catchments often sell for a premium. Demand rises when families compete for spots in high-performing or well-regarded schools. This creates tighter supply, faster sales, and upward pressure on values. In Greater Victoria, desirable catchments boost appeal. Properties in these zones frequently see stronger demand from family buyers. As a result, they hold value better during market shifts and often appreciate steadily. Local experts note that homes in strong catchments sell faster and at higher prices compared to similar homes nearby. Key School Districts and Catchment Areas Greater Victoria covers three main public school districts: SD61 (Greater Victoria): Covers core Victoria, Oak Bay, Esquimalt, and parts of Saanich and View Royal. Popular areas include neighbourhoods near top-rated schools. SD62 (Sooke): Serves western communities like Langford, Colwood, Sooke, and Metchosin. Growing areas here benefit from family-friendly schools. SD63 (Saanich): Includes much of the Saanich Peninsula, with suburban and rural zones. Catchment boundaries can shift slightly over time. Always use official tools like SD61's interactive School Locator for the latest maps. Top Areas and Their Value Impact Certain neighbourhoods stand out for family appeal due to school quality. Areas like Oak Bay, parts of Saanich East, and Fairfield often show stable appreciation. Homes near schools with strong programs (such as French Immersion or high academic performance) draw extra interest. Fraser Institute rankings and local feedback highlight consistent performers in these zones. Buyers pay more for access to these schools, which supports long-term home value. Tips for Buyers and Sellers Check catchments early in your search. Use official district tools rather than assumptions. Verify boundaries directly, as capacity issues can affect enrolment. For sellers, highlight catchment advantages in listings. This appeals to family buyers and can justify stronger pricing. If you lack school-aged children, catchments still matter. They widen your buyer pool for resale and add future-proof value. Final Thoughts School catchments in Victoria home value connections remain powerful in 2026. They influence demand, pricing, and resale ease, especially for families. If you plan to buy or sell in Victoria, prioritize this factor. Focus on family-friendly neighbourhoods like Oak Bay, Saanich, or the core. Contact a local realtor for current insights, listings, and catchment details. Making informed choices now supports both your lifestyle and investment goals.   Don Wong. 5-Star Review, via Google “I would recommend them to anyone buying real estate on the Vancouver Island. The team is very knowledgeable, courteous and professional, adding a personal touch to building a strong relationship. ” Faber Real Estate Group Royal LePage Coast Capital Realty 📞 250-244-3430 📧[email protected] ℹ️ Scott Faber Personal Real Estate Corporation ℹ️ Cal Faber Personal Real Estate Corporation Vanessa Wood & Zachary Parsons “Building Lasting Relationships, One Home at a Time.”  

Buying a home in British Columbia especially in high-demand areas like Greater Victoria can feel daunting with rising prices and closing costs. The good news? In 2026, a mix of provincial, federal, and even local programs can significantly reduce upfront costs, boost your down payment, or lower ongoing expenses. These incentives are particularly valuable in the current balanced market, where buyers have more leverage. Here's a breakdown of the most impactful ones available right now, focusing on first-time buyers (though some apply more broadly). Always verify eligibility on official sites, as rules can adjust. Provincial Incentives (BC-Specific) First-Time Home Buyers’ Program (Property Transfer Tax Exemption/Refund) This is one of the biggest savers: It reduces or eliminates BC's Property Transfer Tax (PTT) on your purchase. For homes with fair market value $500,000 or less: Full exemption (no PTT at all). For homes $500,001–$835,000: Exemption of $8,000 (equivalent to no tax on the first $500,000). Partial phase-out for $835,001–$860,000. Homes over $860,000 generally don't qualify. Savings can reach up to $8,000+ (or more on lower-priced homes). You must be a first-time buyer (no prior ownership in the last few years), a BC resident, and meet other criteria like using it as your principal residence. Partial exemptions apply if co-buying with a non-qualifying partner. Check details and apply via the BC government site. Newly Built Home Exemption If buying or building a new home/condo: Full PTT exemption for homes up to $1,100,000, with partial for $1,100,001–$1,150,000. Great for new developments in areas like Langford or Colwood. Home Owner Grant Not just for first-timers—this reduces your annual property taxes. Up to $570 in Metro Victoria/Capital Regional District (or $770 elsewhere in BC). Full grant if assessed value ≤ $2,075,000 in 2026. It kicks in after purchase and helps with ongoing costs. Federal Incentives (Nationwide, Including BC) First Home Savings Account (FHSA) A powerful savings tool: Contribute up to $8,000/year (lifetime max $40,000 per person). Contributions are tax-deductible (like RRSP). Growth and qualified withdrawals for a first home are tax-free (like TFSA). Combine with other programs—perfect for building a down payment faster. Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP) Withdraw up to $60,000 tax-free from your RRSP for a down payment (or build). No tax on withdrawal; repay over 15 years (starting after a grace period). Ideal if you have RRSP savings—many first-timers stack this with FHSA. First-Time Home Buyers’ Tax Credit (Home Buyers’ Amount) Claim a non-refundable credit of up to $10,000 on your tax return (worth about $1,500 in savings, depending on your bracket). Applies to the year you buy; covers closing costs indirectly. GST/HST New Housing Rebate (Plus Proposed First-Time Buyer Top-Up) For new builds: Reclaim part of the GST/HST paid. A new federal proposal (with legislation advancing) offers additional relief: Up to 100% rebate (max ~$50,000) on new homes ≤ $1M, phasing out to $1.5M. If passed and applicable, it stacks with the standard rebate—huge for new construction buyers. CMHC Mortgage Insurance (for Low Down Payments) Not a direct grant, but enables 5% down payments on homes up to ~$1M+ (with insurance premium added to mortgage). In a balanced market, this stretches budgets further. Local Spotlight: Langford Attainable Home Ownership Program In the West Shore (Victoria area), the City of Langford offers a unique pilot: Up to 75% down payment assistance for qualifying buyers on select new condos priced $399,000–$499,000. Sliding scale based on income (e.g., max help for households under ~$130,000). Applications are open—great entry point for first-timers in growing Langford. How to Maximize These in 2026 Stack Them: Use FHSA + HBP for down payment, PTT exemption on closing, GST rebate on new builds, and Home Owner Grant ongoing. Get Pre-Approved: Factor these into your budget with a mortgage specialist. Timing Matters: Early 2026 often sees good inventory; act before potential changes. Eligibility Check: Most require Canadian citizenship/PR status, first-time status (some exceptions), and principal residence use. These programs can save thousands to tens of thousands, making homeownership more reachable—especially in the West Shore's relatively affordable pockets. Ready to dive into specifics for your budget or area? Let me know! Doug M., 5-Star Review, via Google “For us, selling our first home of 15 years brought up a lot of emotion and the process felt daunting. We had a challenging tenant and lived off island. In rode these 3 amigos, the Fabers, like knights on white horses! Always there, supporting, guiding every step of the way, connecting with confidence and kindness. Fluid communication and success on every level. Truly a God send, we can’t imagine having done it without them! A pleasure indeed.” Faber Real Estate Group Royal LePage Coast Capital Realty 📞 250-244-3430 📧[email protected] ℹ️ Scott Faber Personal Real Estate Corporation ℹ️ Cal Faber Personal Real Estate Corporation Vanessa Wood, Zachary Parsons, and Sophie Taylor “Building Lasting Relationships, One Home at a Time.”

The Saanich Peninsula continues to attract buyers looking for value, lifestyle, and long-term stability. In 2026, balanced market conditions have created opportunities across Sidney, North Saanich, and Central Saanich, particularly for buyers willing to look beyond core Victoria. Saanich Peninsula real estate benefits from limited land supply, strong community appeal, and steady demand tied to retirees, families, and downsizers. Sidney: Walkability and Coastal Appeal Sidney remains one of the Peninsula’s most popular markets, especially for downsizers and retirees. Why buyers focus here: Walkable downtown with shops, cafes, and waterfront access Strong condo and townhome inventory relative to other Peninsula areas Consistent demand that supports long-term value In 2026, pricing remains more approachable than Oak Bay or Fairfield, particularly for condominiums. For buyers seeking lifestyle and convenience, Sidney continues to represent solid value within Saanich Peninsula real estate. Central Saanich: Balance of Space and Accessibility Central Saanich appeals to buyers who want more space without sacrificing proximity. Key advantages include: Larger lots and family-oriented neighbourhoods Easy access to Sidney, Brentwood Bay, and Victoria A mix of single-family homes, townhomes, and newer developments Value plays often emerge in older homes with cosmetic upgrade potential. For long-term buyers, Central Saanich offers flexibility and stability. North Saanich: Acreage and Long-Term Holding Value North Saanich remains the Peninsula’s acreage market. What defines North Saanich: Larger rural properties and estate-style homes Limited development and strong zoning protections Appeal to buyers prioritizing privacy and long-term ownership While price points are higher, North Saanich real estate often compares favourably to similar acreage markets closer to Victoria. In a balanced 2026 market, patient buyers may find negotiation opportunities. Where the Best Value Plays Appear in 2026 Across the Peninsula, value often shows up in: Condos and townhomes in Sidney Older single-family homes in Central Saanich Acreage properties in North Saanich with long-term upside Understanding neighbourhood plans, servicing, and future development restrictions is critical when assessing value. Market Conditions to Watch Inventory levels across the Saanich Peninsula remain healthier than peak years, giving buyers more choice. However, demand remains steady due to lifestyle-driven purchases and limited land availability. As a result, well-priced homes continue to move, while overpriced listings sit longer. Final Thoughts Saanich Peninsula real estate offers compelling value in 2026 for buyers seeking lifestyle, space, and long-term stability. Sidney delivers walkability, Central Saanich balances space and access, and North Saanich offers acreage and privacy. For buyers willing to act strategically, these Peninsula hotspots remain some of Greater Victoria’s strongest value plays. Doug M., 5-Star Review, via Google “For us, selling our first home of 15 years brought up a lot of emotion and the process felt daunting. We had a challenging tenant and lived off island. In rode these 3 amigos, the Fabers, like knights on white horses! Always there, supporting, guiding every step of the way, connecting with confidence and kindness. Fluid communication and success on every level. Truly a God send, we can’t imagine having done it without them! A pleasure indeed.” Faber Real Estate Group Royal LePage Coast Capital Realty 📞 250-244-3430 📧[email protected] ℹ️ Scott Faber Personal Real Estate Corporation ℹ️ Cal Faber Personal Real Estate Corporation Vanessa Wood, Zachary Parsons, and Sophie Taylor “Building Lasting Relationships, One Home at a Time.”

Walkability has become a top priority for many home buyers in Greater Victoria. Neighbourhoods that allow residents to walk to shops, cafes, parks, and essential services offer convenience, lifestyle benefits, and long-term real estate value. Here are some of the most walkable communities in the region and what makes them stand out. Downtown Victoria Downtown Victoria is the most walkable area in the region, offering access to restaurants, grocery stores, entertainment, offices, and the Inner Harbour within minutes. Condos and townhomes dominate the housing mix, making it ideal for buyers seeking an urban lifestyle with minimal reliance on a vehicle. James Bay James Bay combines a quiet residential feel with excellent walkability. Residents can walk to Dallas Road, Beacon Hill Park, local cafes, grocery stores, and downtown. The neighbourhood appeals to both downsizers and professionals looking for convenience without living in the city core. Fernwood Fernwood is known for its strong sense of community and character homes. The village-style centre offers coffee shops, restaurants, and local events, all within walking distance. Its proximity to downtown adds to its appeal for buyers seeking walkability and neighbourhood charm. Cook Street Village Cook Street Village offers a relaxed, community-oriented atmosphere with independent shops, cafes, and essential services. Residents enjoy easy access to Beacon Hill Park and nearby beaches, making it a highly desirable area for walkable living. Oak Bay Village Oak Bay Village is a standout for walkability outside the downtown core. With grocery stores, cafes, banks, and boutiques clustered along Oak Bay Avenue, residents can meet most daily needs on foot. The area attracts buyers looking for a village feel with strong property values. Vic West Vic West continues to grow in popularity due to its walkable access to the Galloping Goose, Westside Village, and downtown Victoria. Newer developments combined with established homes make it appealing to buyers who value connectivity and lifestyle. Esquimalt Parts of Esquimalt offer increasing walkability, especially near Esquimalt Road and the township centre. Ongoing development has improved access to shops, services, and waterfront paths, making it an attractive option for buyers looking for value and convenience. Why Walkability Matters in Real Estate Walkable communities tend to attract consistent buyer demand. Proximity to amenities reduces transportation costs, supports an active lifestyle, and enhances overall quality of life. From a real estate perspective, walkability often contributes to stronger resale appeal and long-term value. Choosing the Right Walkable Neighbourhood Each walkable community offers a different lifestyle, from urban living to village-style neighbourhoods. Understanding how walkability aligns with your daily routine and housing needs is key to choosing the right area. For buyers and sellers alike, walkable communities remain one of the most desirable features in Greater Victoria’s real estate market.   Darlene S., 5-Star Review, via Google “Great team! Scott and Cal were extremely helpful in navigating a difficult sale. Their knowledge and strategies brought a quick offer to the table. I truly appreciated their on-going communications and generosity. Have already recommended them to friends and neighbours.” Faber Real Estate Group Royal LePage Coast Capital Realty 📞 250-244-3430 📧[email protected] ℹ️ Scott Faber Personal Real Estate Corporation ℹ️ Cal Faber Personal Real Estate Corporation Vanessa Wood, Zachary Parsons, and Sophie Taylor “Building Lasting Relationships, One Home at a Time.”

Home equity is the difference between your home’s market value and what you still owe on your mortgage. Understanding home equity is essential for buyers and homeowners because it plays a major role in long-term financial planning and wealth building. Simply put, the more of your home you own outright, the more equity you have. How Home Equity Builds Over Time Home equity typically grows in two ways: Paying down your mortgage with each monthly payment Property value increases over time due to market conditions or improvements For example, if your home is worth $800,000 and your mortgage balance is $500,000, you have $300,000 in home equity. Why Home Equity Matters Home equity provides flexibility and financial leverage. It can be used to: Help fund renovations or upgrades Support future home purchases Assist with major life expenses Increase long-term net worth In markets like Greater Victoria, where home prices have historically trended upward over the long term, equity can become a significant asset. Equity vs. Renting Rent payments build no equity. Once the payment is made, the money is gone. With homeownership, a portion of each mortgage payment contributes to building equity, even during stable or slower markets. This difference is one of the key reasons many buyers choose to purchase when they plan to stay put for several years. How Much Equity Do You Need? There is no universal benchmark, but more equity generally means: Better refinancing options Lower borrowing risk Greater financial security That said, equity takes time to build. It works best as a long-term strategy rather than a short-term gain. Final Thoughts Home equity is not just a number on paper. It represents ownership, stability, and long-term value. Whether you are a first-time buyer or a long-time homeowner, understanding how equity works can help you make more informed real estate decisions in Victoria’s market. If you are curious how much equity you may be able to build, reviewing your options early can make a meaningful difference.   Dom L., 5-Star Review, via Google “After months of searching and giving us their honest advice, we finally bought a place while out of town. We only had a virtual tour of the site, but we felt very comfortable making an offer because they understood what we were looking for. I would recommend going to Faber group as they are knowledgeable, professional and resourceful.” Faber Real Estate Group Royal LePage Coast Capital Realty 📞 250-244-3430 📧[email protected] ℹ️ Scott Faber Personal Real Estate Corporation ℹ️ Cal Faber Personal Real Estate Corporation Vanessa Wood, Zachary Parsons, and Sophie Taylor “Building Lasting Relationships, One Home at a Time.”

The Victoria spring real estate market 2026 is shaping up to be more balanced than the fast-paced years buyers remember. Spring remains the most active season locally, but conditions suggest a steadier, more strategic market ahead rather than rapid price surges. Buyers and sellers entering the market this spring should expect improved choice, realistic pricing, and a stronger emphasis on value and location. Inventory and Buyer Activity Inventory is expected to improve modestly across Greater Victoria. More homeowners appear willing to list as pricing stabilizes and borrowing costs level out. As a result, buyers will have slightly more selection than in recent spring markets. Demand should remain strongest in family-oriented neighbourhoods and entry-level price ranges. Well-located homes that show well will still attract attention, but bidding wars should be less common overall. Price Trends for Spring 2026 Home prices in Victoria are likely to remain relatively flat this spring, with modest gains in high-demand pockets. Condos and townhomes should continue to lead activity, especially among first-time buyers and downsizers. Single-family homes may see longer days on market unless priced accurately. Sellers who align with current market conditions will have the best results. Interest Rates and Buyer Confidence Interest rates remain a key factor shaping the Victoria spring real estate market 2026. While rates are higher than pandemic-era lows, improved predictability has restored some buyer confidence. Pre-approved buyers are returning with clearer budgets and a more disciplined approach. This supports steady sales without the volatility seen in previous cycles. Neighbourhoods to Watch This Spring The West Shore, including Langford and Colwood, is expected to stay active due to relative affordability. Vic West and View Royal should continue attracting buyers seeking proximity to downtown without core pricing. Established areas like Fairfield and Oak Bay remain resilient, though price sensitivity is higher than in past spring markets. What This Means for Buyers and Sellers For buyers, spring 2026 offers better negotiating conditions and more time to make informed decisions. Preparation and flexibility remain essential. For sellers, presentation, pricing, and timing matter more than ever. Homes that are well-prepared and competitively priced should still perform well during the spring surge. Final Thoughts The Victoria spring real estate market 2026 is expected to reward patience and strategy rather than speed. While spring activity will pick up as usual, balanced conditions favour informed buyers and realistic sellers. If you are planning to make a move this spring, understanding neighbourhood trends and current pricing will be key to success.   Elel P., 5-Star Review, via Google “Months of looking then a listing came up to our liking. We were out of town so Scott did a virtual viewing for us. We gave an offer even without viewing it personally because of this crazy market we have. Offer got accepted a couple hours after!” Faber Real Estate Group Royal LePage Coast Capital Realty 📞 250-244-3430 📧[email protected] ℹ️ Scott Faber Personal Real Estate Corporation ℹ️ Cal Faber Personal Real Estate Corporation Vanessa Wood, Zachary Parsons, and Sophie Taylor “Building Lasting Relationships, One Home at a Time.”

James Bay remains one of Victoria’s most desirable waterfront neighbourhoods. In 2026, balanced market conditions have created increased buyer leverage, particularly in the condo segment. For buyers focused on lifestyle, walkability, and long-term value, James Bay real estate continues to present timely opportunities. Condo Opportunities in James Bay Condos dominate the James Bay housing mix, making this neighbourhood especially attractive to downsizers, retirees, and urban-focused buyers. Current conditions favour buyers: Increased condo inventory compared to peak years Reduced competition on well-priced units More room for negotiation on price, terms, and conditions Older buildings with solid strata management often offer the best value, especially for buyers willing to modernize interiors. Waterfront Lifestyle Appeal James Bay’s lifestyle remains its strongest draw. Residents enjoy: Immediate access to the Dallas Road waterfront Walkable proximity to downtown, Beacon Hill Park, and the Inner Harbour A quieter, residential feel compared to other downtown-adjacent areas This combination supports consistent long-term demand, even as short-term market conditions shift. Buyer Leverage in Today’s Market In 2026, James Bay real estate reflects a balanced environment rather than a seller-driven market. What this means for buyers: Longer days on market for condos Fewer multiple-offer scenarios Greater flexibility around possession dates and conditions Well-informed buyers who understand strata documents and building histories can capitalize on this leverage. Who James Bay Works Best For James Bay continues to attract: Downsizers seeking walkability and lower maintenance Retirees prioritizing waterfront access Buyers relocating from higher-priced core neighbourhoods Investors remain selective, but strong rental demand supports long-term holding strategies for well-located units. What Sellers Should Know While pricing remains important, homes that are well-presented and realistically priced continue to sell. Overpriced condos tend to sit longer, reinforcing the importance of accurate market positioning. Final Thoughts James Bay real estate offers a rare blend of waterfront lifestyle and urban convenience. In 2026, condo opportunities and buyer leverage make this neighbourhood especially compelling for purchasers prepared to act strategically.

Secondary suites and laneway homes remain a compelling investment in 2026, offering rental income and long-term value in a balanced market. In a more stable market, these additions offer predictable rental income, zoning advantages, and meaningful resale value across Greater Victoria. Reliable rental income in a balanced market As price growth normalizes, rental income plays a larger role in overall return. Secondary suites and laneway homes provide consistent cash flow that can offset mortgage costs or support long-term holding strategies. Demand remains strongest for well-designed, legal suites close to transit, employment hubs, and schools. Purpose-built laneway homes also appeal to downsizers, professionals, and long-term tenants seeking privacy without condo living. Zoning perks and increased flexibility Recent zoning changes across Victoria, Saanich, and the West Shore have made it easier to add secondary dwellings. Many neighbourhoods now allow suites or garden homes by right, reducing approval timelines and uncertainty. This flexibility supports multi-generational living, aging-in-place options, and future use changes. Buyers value properties that adapt over time rather than relying on a single use. Added value beyond monthly cash flow Homes with legal suites or laneway houses often command higher resale prices, even in balanced conditions. Buyers recognize the built-in income potential and future development options. Appraisers and lenders also tend to view legal secondary dwellings favourably, especially when permits, fire separation, and parking requirements are met. This can strengthen financing options and buyer confidence. What investors should evaluate in 2026 Not all secondary dwellings deliver equal returns. Before purchasing or building, consider lot size, servicing capacity, parking requirements, and neighbourhood rental demand. Construction costs remain a key factor, so long-term planning matters more than short-term yield. In many cases, the combined benefit of rental income, flexibility, and resale value outweighs pure cash flow calculations. Bottom line Secondary suites and laneway home investments remain a practical strategy in Greater Victoria. While rapid appreciation has cooled, these properties continue to offer stability, adaptability, and long-term value in a more balanced market. Maryann G., 5-Star Review, via Google “We recently sold our home through the Faber Real Estate Group. We received excellent service as we navigated our way through the sale of the house. I would recommend Cal and his sons as the realtor for your sale as they are so professional and gave good advice leading to a quick sale.” Faber Real Estate Group Royal LePage Coast Capital Realty 📞 250-244-3430 📧[email protected] ℹ️ Scott Faber Personal Real Estate Corporation ℹ️ Cal Faber Personal Real Estate Corporation Vanessa Wood, Zachary Parsons, and Sophie Taylor “Building Lasting Relationships, One Home at a Time.”

From our experience, the smoothest purchases happen when couples have clear and honest discussions before they ever step into a showing. Understanding each other’s priorities, timelines, and comfort levels with risk helps avoid difficult moments later in the process. We often see challenges arise when expectations are not aligned early on. Taking time to talk through lifestyle goals and future plans creates clarity and confidence when it is time to make decisions. Know How Lenders See You Many couples are surprised by how financing works when buying together. Lenders look at combined income, credit history, existing debts, and employment stability. One stronger credit profile can help, but one weaker profile can also affect borrowing power. From a realtor’s standpoint, buyers who secure a solid pre approval before shopping are always in a stronger position, both financially and strategically. Compromise Is Part of the Process Every couple enters the market with different priorities. One person may value location while the other wants space or specific features. We see the most success when couples clearly define their must haves versus nice to haves. Understanding where you can be flexible helps move quickly when the right property comes along, especially in competitive neighbourhoods. Think About Resale From Day One Even if a home feels like a long term purchase, resale value always matters. As realtors, we look at homes through the lens of future buyers as well as current lifestyle. Location, layout, condition, and neighbourhood appeal all influence how easily a home will sell down the road. Choosing a property with broad market appeal protects your investment and keeps options open. Understand Ownership and Protection How a property is registered is often overlooked. Joint tenancy and tenancy in common affect what happens if circumstances change. We regularly recommend couples speak with a legal professional to ensure ownership aligns with their situation and contributions. Clarity here provides peace of mind and avoids complications later. Lean on Professional Guidance Buying property together is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. From a realtor’s perspective, the couples who enjoy the process most are those who ask questions, seek advice, and stay informed at every stage. When couples approach the purchase as a team and work closely with experienced professionals, they are more likely to find a home that supports both their relationship and their long term goals.   Lindsay R., 5-Star Review, via Google “Scott has been an awesome help finding my condo. He always knew my needs and gave me the right advise every step of the way. Would 10/10 recommend !” Faber Real Estate Group Royal LePage Coast Capital Realty 📞 250-244-3430 📧[email protected] ℹ️ Scott Faber Personal Real Estate Corporation ℹ️ Cal Faber Personal Real Estate Corporation Vanessa Wood, Zachary Parsons, and Sophie Taylor “Building Lasting Relationships, One Home at a Time.”

The Victoria rental market continues to play a major role in shaping real estate conditions across Greater Victoria. In 2026, limited rental supply, steady population growth, and affordability pressures are influencing buyer behaviour, pricing, and long-term market trends. Understanding the Victoria rental market helps both buyers and sellers make more informed decisions. Strong Rental Demand Supports Buyer Activity Rental demand in Victoria remains high, driven by job growth, students, and limited purpose-built rental inventory. As a result, rents continue to sit at historically elevated levels. For many renters, rising monthly payments make ownership more attractive, even in a balanced sales market. This dynamic supports ongoing demand for entry-level condos, townhomes, and smaller single-family homes. Impact on First-Time Buyers The Victoria rental market often accelerates first-time buyer decisions. High rents make saving challenging, yet comparable mortgage payments can appear more manageable Stable inventory in 2026 provides buyers with more choice and negotiating room Condos and townhomes remain the primary entry point for renters transitioning to ownership As rental costs rise, ownership becomes less about timing the market and more about long-term stability. Influence on Investors and Secondary Suites Investors continue to view Victoria real estate as a long-term hold, largely due to rental scarcity. Strong demand supports consistent occupancy Secondary suites and garden suites add value to single-family homes Purpose-built rental constraints keep pressure on resale housing While regulatory changes affect short-term rentals, long-term rental demand remains a key support for property values. Condo Market Effects The Victoria rental market has a direct impact on the condo segment. One- and two-bedroom units attract both renters and buyers, especially near employment centres, transit corridors, and post-secondary institutions. In 2026, balanced inventory has reduced bidding pressure, yet rental fundamentals continue to support pricing. Supply Constraints Shape Long-Term Trends Although new rental projects are underway, supply growth continues to lag demand. Zoning limitations, construction costs, and approval timelines slow meaningful expansion. As a result, rental pressure reinforces long-term housing demand across Greater Victoria. This dynamic supports price stability, even during periods of slower sales activity. What This Means for Sellers Sellers benefit from rental-driven demand in several ways: Strong interest in entry-level and income-generating properties Continued appeal of homes with suites or flexible layouts Stable buyer confidence despite market normalization Pricing still matters, but underlying demand remains intact. Final Thoughts The Victoria rental market remains a foundational driver of real estate activity in 2026. Limited supply, high rents, and steady demand continue to influence buyer decisions and support long-term values. For buyers, sellers, and investors alike, understanding rental market conditions provides valuable context when navigating Greater Victoria real estate. Lorraine P., 5-Star Review, via Google “I would not dream of ever using a realtor other than Cal. Apart from the fact that he is was exceptionally knowledgable and resourceful, he was also honest, truthful and always acted in my best interest while at the same time treating all parties with dignity and respect.”