Market Trends and Insights

The Sidney BC housing market outlook points to stability rather than sharp swings. Current assessments suggest modest value increases of roughly 2 to 3 percent for both single-family homes and condos, reflecting steady demand in this coastal community. Why Assessed Values Are Rising Slowly Sidney’s housing stock is mature and largely built out. Limited new supply helps support values, but a balanced resale market keeps growth measured. For 2026, modest assessment increases signal a market that is healthy, not overheated. Coastal Appeal Drives Consistent Demand Sidney’s waterfront setting, walkable downtown, and proximity to the airport and ferries continue to attract buyers. Retirees, downsizers, and lifestyle-focused purchasers remain active, which helps sustain demand even during broader economic shifts. Condos and Single-Family Homes Stay Aligned Both housing types are seeing similar assessment trends. Condos remain popular with downsizers and part-time residents, while single-family homes benefit from limited inventory and long-term ownership patterns. What This Means for Homeowners and Buyers A 2 to 3 percent assessed value increase does not automatically mean higher property taxes. Taxes depend on how your home compares to others locally. For buyers, Sidney offers predictability and long-term value rather than rapid appreciation. Bottom Line The Sidney, BC housing market outlook suggests modest value gains supported by lifestyle demand and limited supply. For homeowners and buyers alike, Sidney continues to offer stability in a changing market.   Don S., 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, and Sophie Taylor “Building Lasting Relationships, One Home at a Time.”

The Bank of Canada has held the overnight rate steady. For homeowners with fixed or variable mortgages, this means there is no immediate change to monthly payments. However, the decision itself offers important insight into where interest rates may be headed in 2026. In a balanced market like Greater Victoria, understanding the signal behind the pause matters just as much as the rate itself. What This Announcement Really Signals Holding rates suggests the Bank believes current policy is restrictive enough to cool inflation without further tightening. Instead of reacting aggressively, the Bank is choosing to wait and assess how past rate hikes continue to work through the economy. For buyers and homeowners, this points to a shift from rate shock to rate stability. Why Inflation Is No Longer Forcing the Bank’s Hand Inflation has eased from its peak and is moving closer to the Bank’s target range. While prices are still elevated in some areas, broad inflation pressures are no longer accelerating. Because of this, the Bank does not need to raise rates further to regain control. That does not guarantee cuts are imminent, but it reduces the risk of sudden increases. What Could Actually Move Rates This Year Future rate changes will likely depend on a few key factors: Sustained declines in inflation Slower economic growth or rising unemployment Weak consumer spending and housing activity If inflation continues to cool without a rebound in demand, gradual rate cuts later in 2026 become more likely. On the other hand, renewed inflation pressure or economic surprises could delay that timeline. How Buyers and Homeowners Should Think About Risk For current homeowners, stability offers a chance to review renewal timelines, stress test household budgets, and avoid overextending in anticipation of rapid rate cuts. For buyers, this environment supports careful planning. Rate holds reduce urgency, but affordability still matters. Buyers should focus on long-term payment comfort rather than timing short-term rate moves. In markets like Victoria, where inventory remains higher and prices are stable, patience and flexibility continue to be advantages. Bottom Line The Bank of Canada holding rates steady does not change payments today, but it signals a more measured phase of monetary policy. Inflation is no longer driving aggressive action, and future moves will depend on how the economy evolves through 2026. If you are weighing your options as a buyer or homeowner, now is a good time to review your strategy and understand how interest rate risk fits into your plans. Ready to talk through your next move? Contact us to discuss how today’s rate environment impacts your home search or long-term goals. Dione S., 5-Star Review, via Google “We made a MAJOR purchase and his expertise gave us the confidence to make OUR own decision in this crazy market! We are HAPPY ! Would not change a thing! Thank you Faber team!!” 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.”

When people think about living in Victoria BC, the focus often starts with home prices and market conditions. While those factors matter, they only tell part of the story. What truly sets Victoria apart is the lifestyle that comes with it. From easy access to nature to a strong sense of community, Victoria offers daily benefits that go far beyond real estate. In a stable 2026 market, these lifestyle factors continue to influence why people choose to settle here long-term. Parks and Green Spaces That Shape Daily Life One of the biggest lifestyle advantages of living in Victoria BC is the access to green space. With more than 200 parks across the region, nature is never far from home. Beacon Hill Park remains a standout, offering walking paths, gardens, and open space right near downtown. It is a go-to spot for morning walks, weekend picnics, and family time. For those looking for elevation and views, Mount Douglas Park provides scenic trails overlooking the city and coastline. These parks do more than enhance scenery. They encourage outdoor activity, support mental well-being, and create natural gathering spaces where neighbours connect. In communities like Oak Bay and Saanich, parks often feel like an extension of the neighbourhood itself. Trails That Connect the City Beyond parks, Victoria’s trail network plays a major role in everyday life. The Galloping Goose Regional Trail is a key highlight, stretching from downtown to the Westshore and beyond. This multi-use trail supports cycling, walking, and commuting without a car. Many residents use it daily, whether for exercise or to get to work. Its connections to other routes, including the Lochside Trail, make it easy to travel across the region while staying active. For Westshore residents in Langford and Colwood, the trail offers a practical alternative to traffic. Combined with Victoria’s mild climate, these trails remain usable year-round, adding to the appeal of outdoor living. Community Events and Local Culture Victoria’s lifestyle is also shaped by its active community and year-round events. Seasonal festivals, local markets, and neighbourhood gatherings help create a strong sense of belonging. Events like the Victoria Fringe Festival and Rifflandia continue to attract both locals and visitors. Weekly farmers’ markets in areas such as James Bay and Moss Street support local businesses while offering fresh, regional food. Even outside major festivals, smaller community events keep neighbourhoods connected. These experiences help newcomers feel at home quickly and give long-time residents reasons to stay engaged. Why Victoria Feels Like Home What often stands out most about living in Victoria BC is the balance it offers. The city combines small-community charm with urban amenities, including strong schools, growing employment sectors, and reliable transit. Victoria’s mild climate supports an outdoor lifestyle year-round, which many residents consider a major quality-of-life advantage. Combined with a reputation for safety and walkability, it appeals to families, professionals, and retirees alike. In a 2026 market marked by stable prices and increased inventory, buying in Victoria is about more than timing the market. It is about choosing a place that supports how you want to live. If you are considering a move, the lifestyle benefits of Victoria may be just as important as the numbers. Living here means investing in daily quality of life, not just real estate value. Gigi S., 5-Star Review, via Google “Scott and his team is highly professional group . Scott is a very friendly person ,care for needs and requirements of his client . He makes sure that the property you are buying is your dream place and where you would like to see yourself staying forever . I'm glad that we found such a great realtor.” 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.”

Victoria BC zoning laws play a major role in how properties can be used, renovated, or redeveloped. If you are buying or selling in Victoria, understanding zoning helps you avoid surprises and identify long-term opportunities. At its core, zoning shapes how neighbourhoods evolve over time. These rules determine not only what exists today, but also what may be possible in the future, making zoning knowledge especially valuable in a changing market. What Zoning Laws Do To manage growth and land use, zoning laws set clear parameters for development. They outline how land can be used and what can be built, helping balance housing needs with neighbourhood character. Specifically, zoning bylaws divide land into defined categories. Each zone establishes rules around permitted uses, building height, density, setbacks, and parking. Some zones allow only detached homes, while others permit duplexes, townhomes, or small multi-unit buildings. In Victoria, these rules are governed through the Zoning Bylaw 2018 alongside the older Zoning Regulation Bylaw. Together, they apply to residential, commercial, and mixed-use areas across the city. Main Zoning Types in Victoria Understanding the main zoning categories helps clarify what is allowed in different areas of the city. Residential zones cover single-family homes, multi-family housing, and mixed residential uses. Recent updates have focused on increasing density through small-scale multi-unit housing rather than high-rise development. Beyond residential areas, commercial zones allow retail, offices, and services, often combined with residential units in central locations. Industrial zones support manufacturing and warehouse uses and are typically located away from residential neighbourhoods. There are also special zones for institutional, agricultural, and park-related uses. Recent Zoning Changes to Know In recent years, provincial housing policies have significantly reshaped Victoria BC zoning laws for 2026. Many lots that once allowed only one home now permit up to four or six units, depending on lot size and proximity to transit. These changes are designed to increase housing supply while maintaining livable communities. As a result, zoning in Victoria’s core now encourages infill and gentle density. In contrast, growing areas closer to the Westshore are seeing zoning that supports larger developments and transit-oriented housing. How Zoning Affects Buyers and Sellers These zoning rules have practical implications for buyers, sellers, and investors. For buyers, zoning determines future options such as adding a suite or building additional units. For sellers, more flexible zoning can increase buyer interest and perceived value. From an investment perspective, zoning directly influences rental potential, redevelopment feasibility, and long-term returns. Because of this, zoning should always be reviewed early in the decision-making process. Before moving forward, confirm zoning details with the City of Victoria, especially if future development or expansion is part of your plan. Bottom Line Victoria BC zoning laws are designed to support growth while balancing community needs. Understanding how zoning works gives buyers, sellers, and investors a clearer picture of what a property can offer today and what it may offer in the future. This information is for educational purposes only. Always verify zoning with the City of Victoria before proceeding.   Shane B.,  5-Star Review, via Google “The last few months navigating this crazy real estate market has been a rollercoaster, and we couldn’t have done it without the Faber Real Estate Team! Scott was extremely helpful, positive and always available. Under a tight timeline we were able to get our condo on the market and sell right away, to be available for any housing opportunity. Scott was patient and helpful throughout the entire process of searching for houses, and went above and beyond to help us finally land an accepted offer on the perfect home. Thank you Scott and the Faber Real Estate Team!” 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 Highlands is one of the West Shore’s most exclusive residential areas. Known for large acreages, forested surroundings, and limited development, The Highlands real estate appeals to buyers who prioritize privacy and lifestyle over proximity to downtown. In 2026, market conditions remain balanced across Greater Victoria. Higher inventory and modest price softening have created more opportunities for well-prepared buyers. As a result, The Highlands stands out as a quieter alternative to Oak Bay or central Victoria without sacrificing long-term value. Current Market Snapshot (Early 2026) The Highlands remains a low-inventory market, typically offering just a handful of active listings at any time. Key trends include: Typical single-family values around $1.23M, slightly below last year Listings ranging from the mid-$700,000s to over $3M for estate properties Median list prices near $1.2M, with higher pricing near Bear Mountain Because homes here appeal to a niche audience, days on market often run longer than urban areas. That dynamic can benefit patient buyers. What Makes The Highlands Unique Privacy and SpaceMost properties sit on one to five acres or more. Gated entries, long driveways, and natural buffers are common. Natural SurroundingsThe area borders Thetis Lake Regional Park and features extensive trail networks, wildlife, and forested views. Outdoor-focused buyers often see this as a major lifestyle upgrade. Nearby AmenitiesWhile The Highlands feels remote, Bear Mountain Resort, Langford shopping, and highway access are all within a short drive. Long-Term Value ProtectionZoning restrictions and limited land supply help preserve the rural-luxury character that defines The Highlands real estate. Types of Homes Available Buyers typically encounter three broad categories: Entry-level luxury ($775,000 to $1.2M): Older or updated homes on larger lots Mid-tier estates ($1.2M to $2M): Larger homes with modern finishes, pools, or guest suites High-end properties ($2M+): Custom builds, premium views, or Bear Mountain-adjacent homes Opportunities for expansion or multi-generational living are common. Is The Highlands Worth Considering in 2026? For buyers seeking space and seclusion, yes. Advantages More negotiating room than peak market years Better value compared to Oak Bay or Saanich estates A lifestyle focused on nature, privacy, and calm Considerations Commutes of 20 to 30 minutes to downtown Victoria Reliance on Langford or Colwood for services Higher maintenance costs for acreage properties Practical Tips for Buyers Secure pre-approval early, especially for rural properties Confirm servicing details such as wells or septic systems Review zoning carefully if future development is planned Work with an agent experienced in The Highlands real estate Final Thoughts The Highlands remains one of Greater Victoria’s most distinctive luxury markets. In a balanced 2026 environment, it offers a rare combination of privacy, natural beauty, and relative value. For buyers who value space and long-term lifestyle quality, The Highlands real estate deserves close consideration. Devon M., 5-Star Review, via Google “Scott was very patient with us as we started our family and took about a year to decide on place we thought would be fit for our home. He went above and beyond and still continues to this day to keep in touch and periodically checks in to see how we are doing. I highly recommend him to anyone looking for a realtor to either sell or buy their home.” 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.”

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.  

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.”

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.”

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.”