Choosing the right neighbourhood in Greater Victoria and the Westshore depends on your lifestyle, needs, and priorities. As realtors working across the region, we help buyers identify areas that fit their goals, whether they are growing families, busy professionals, or retirees seeking a peaceful lifestyle. Neighbourhoods Ideal for Families Families often look for safe streets, good schools, parks, and community amenities. Areas like Saanich, Oak Bay, Royal Oak, and Colwood are popular for families because of excellent schools, playgrounds, and recreational facilities. These communities provide opportunities for outdoor activities, from local parks to nearby trails, and a strong sense of community where neighbours know each other. Neighbourhoods Suited for Professionals Busy professionals often prioritize convenience, transit options, and proximity to work, dining, and entertainment. Downtown Victoria, James Bay, Fernwood, and Langford Town Centre are excellent choices. These areas offer easy access to offices, cafes, shops, and cultural events. Modern condos and townhomes provide low-maintenance living, freeing up time for careers and social life. Neighbourhoods Perfect for Retirees Retirees often seek quiet streets, walkability, and access to healthcare and recreational activities. Esquimalt, View Royal, Cadboro Bay, and Colwood are ideal for retirees. These areas provide scenic walks, community centres, and close proximity to medical services. Many properties are single-level homes or offer low-maintenance yards, which makes daily life easier. The Greater Victoria and Westshore Advantage Regardless of your stage in life, Greater Victoria and the Westshore offer diverse communities with unique benefits. Families enjoy space and schools, professionals benefit from convenience and lifestyle amenities, and retirees can embrace a relaxed pace with beautiful surroundings. The key is finding a neighbourhood that fits both your needs and your long-term goals. How We Can Help As realtors familiar with Greater Victoria and the Westshore, we guide buyers through neighbourhood comparisons, property options, and local amenities. Our goal is to help you find a home and a community where you feel comfortable, connected, and confident in your decision. Ola A. 5-Star Review, via Google “We had a great experience working with Scott from Faber real estate group to purchase our new home. Scott was professional, knowledgeable, and responsive. He had an impressive expertise in the local market and always made us feel like a top priority. His negotiation skills were outstanding, and he took care of every detail, from arranging inspections to researching potential issues with the property. Throughout the process, Scott was patient, understanding, and went above and beyond to provide us with extra resources and options.” 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.”
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Colwood real estate continues to capture buyer interest across Greater Victoria, driven not only by strong fundamentals but also by a thriving calendar of community events. From summer beach parties to arts festivals and seasonal celebrations, Colwood’s social fabric enhances its neighbourhood appeal, making it a desirable place to buy or invest. Why Colwood Stands Out in the West Shore Market Colwood offers a unique blend of natural beauty, accessibility, and a strong sense of community spirit. Located on the western edge of Greater Victoria, it features scenic ocean views, extensive trail networks, easy access to Highway 1 and rapid transit, and a growing mix of housing options ranging from family-friendly detached homes to modern townhouses and condos. These fundamentals alone draw attention from first-time buyers, families, and downsizers alike. However, it is Colwood’s active community life that elevates the local real estate experience beyond shelter and investment. Eats & Beats Beach Party One of Colwood’s signature summer gatherings, the Eats & Beats Beach Party combines live music, food trucks, local vendors, and family-friendly entertainment along The Beachlands. This event draws thousands from across the West Shore and highlights the city’s relaxed coastal lifestyle. Lagoon Arts & Culture Festival Held each fall at Lagoon West Park and the Goldfinch Arts Centre, this festival celebrates local artists, artisans, music and culture. With children’s activities, artisan markets and performances, it reinforces Colwood’s reputation as a creative and engaged community. Colwood Involved: Community and Volunteer Showcase A spring highlight, this event connects residents with local organizations and volunteer opportunities, strengthening civic engagement and enhancing neighbourhood pride. These are factors that contribute to long-term community stability. Seasonal Gatherings and Holiday Celebrations Throughout the year, Colwood hosts seasonal events, including Music in the Park during the summer, Halloween activities, Remembrance Day ceremonies, and the festive Christmas Light Up and Lighted Truck Parade. These gatherings provide year-round opportunities for connection and showcase the city’s welcoming character. How Events Influence Real Estate Demand Community events contribute to real estate dynamics in several ways: Enhanced lifestyle appeal: Buyers increasingly prioritize lifestyle when choosing where to live. Colwood’s events signal a vibrant, connected community. Increased exposure and foot traffic: Events bring visitors into neighbourhoods, allowing prospective buyers to experience local amenities, parks and commercial areas. Stronger community perception: Frequent and well-organized events create positive perceptions of neighbourhood cohesion and long-term stability. Marketing advantage: For sellers and agents, promoting nearby community events can differentiate a listing by emphasizing lifestyle assets beyond the property itself. What This Means for Buyers and Investors For buyers, attending Colwood’s community events is an effective way to evaluate fit and feel. Beyond open houses and listings, experiencing a neighbourhood in motion provides real insight into lifestyle, noise levels, connectivity and community priorities. For investors and long-term homeowners, the synergy between community life and real estate demand supports value stability. Neighbourhoods that cultivate engagement and identity tend to attract consistent interest through market cycles. Colwood’s real estate market is shaped by more than location and housing stock. The city’s calendar of community events enhances neighbourhood visibility, builds social cohesion and contributes to a strong sense of place. Whether you are buying your first home, investing for the future, or planning to sell, Colwood’s blend of lifestyle and community offers tangible value in Greater Victoria’s competitive market. Noah Charton, 5-Star Review, via Google “I can’t thank Scott enough for his invaluable help during my recent real estate transaction. He guided me through several properties with a keen eye for detail, pointing out the pros and cons, building qualities and deficiencies, and identifying potential issues. I truly felt that he cared about helping me make the best decision for my needs. His expertise in assessing the buildings, materials, and the overall condition of the properties gave me confidence in my choices. Scott’s deep understanding of the market, combined with his ability to spot potential issues before they arise, provided me with peace of mind, knowing I was making a sound decision.” 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.”
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Monthly real estate headlines often focus on average prices or sales counts, but those numbers rarely tell the full story. When we look more closely at the Victoria Core vs Westshore real estate market, clear differences emerge in pricing, buyer behaviour, and overall momentum. November’s single-family home statistics highlight why understanding sub-markets matters more than ever for both buyers and sellers. Sales Activity: Two Markets Moving at Different Speeds In November, the Victoria Core continued to show steady but cautious activity. Single-family home sales remained consistent, supported by limited inventory and ongoing demand for established neighbourhoods close to downtown, schools, and employment centers. Buyers in this area tend to be move-up purchasers and long-term homeowners who are less sensitive to short-term rate fluctuations. The Westshore, by contrast, saw stronger sales momentum. Communities such as Langford, Colwood, and Sooke benefited from relative affordability and a growing supply of newer homes. First-time buyers and young families were more active here, particularly in neighbourhoods offering newer construction and flexible floor plans. Pricing Trends: Stability vs Opportunity Single-family home prices in the Victoria Core remained relatively stable through November. Limited supply continues to support values, even as buyers take more time to make decisions. Well located homes that are priced appropriately and presented well are still selling, but unrealistic pricing is being met with resistance. The Westshore continues to offer more pricing flexibility. While prices have increased over the long term, November data shows that buyers still have opportunities, particularly in areas with higher inventory levels. Sellers who understand current market conditions and price strategically are seeing solid results, while overpriced listings are taking longer to sell. Days on Market and Buyer Behaviour Days on market remain shorter in the Victoria Core compared to the Westshore, reflecting the ongoing demand for central locations. Buyers here are selective, often focusing on homes that require minimal work or offer unique lot value. In the Westshore, average days on market are slightly longer, giving buyers more negotiating power. Conditions, financing terms, and inspection clauses are more common, which is a notable shift from the peak market years. This environment rewards well-prepared sellers who address deferred maintenance and present homes clearly. Inventory Levels and What They Signal Inventory in the Victoria Core remains constrained, particularly for detached homes under common price thresholds. This continues to limit choice for buyers but supports price stability for sellers. The Westshore has seen a healthier level of new listings, especially in newer subdivisions. This added selection is helping balance the market and reduce pressure on buyers, while still maintaining steady overall activity. What This Means for Buyers and Sellers For buyers, November’s data reinforces the importance of location specific strategy. The Victoria Core requires decisiveness and preparation, while the Westshore allows for more comparison shopping and negotiation. For sellers, understanding your micro market is critical. A pricing strategy that works in Fairfield or Oak Bay may not translate directly to Langford or Colwood. Tailoring your approach to local conditions is key to achieving strong results.
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Buying a home in a rapidly growing community can offer long term opportunity, but it is important to look beyond early excitement. Growth can bring improved amenities and future value when it is supported by smart planning and strong demand. Infrastructure and Planning Well managed growth starts with infrastructure. Roads, utilities, schools, and healthcare services should be expanding alongside new housing. Communities with clear long term plans tend to remain functional and desirable as they grow. Schools and Amenities Access to schools, parks, recreation, and everyday services plays a major role in livability and resale value. Areas that invest in community amenities early often maintain stronger long term demand. Housing Mix and Neighbourhood Design A healthy mix of housing types helps create balanced neighbourhoods. Walkability, green space, and proximity to amenities all contribute to how a community feels over time, not just at the point of purchase. Long Term Value and Resale Growth alone does not guarantee appreciation. Value is supported by employment access, transportation options, and lifestyle appeal. Buyers should consider whether the area will continue to attract future purchasers once development slows. Commuting and Connectivity Traffic patterns and transit options can change quickly in growth areas. Understanding both current and future transportation plans helps avoid long term inconvenience and supports daily quality of life. Lifestyle Fit Growth brings change. Choosing a community that aligns with long term lifestyle goals helps ensure satisfaction well beyond the first few years of ownership. 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.”
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Broadmead is one of those neighbourhoods in Saanich that reveals itself slowly. It isn’t flashy, and it doesn’t rely on trendy developments. Instead, it offers something harder to replicate: privacy, natural beauty, and a sense of calm that makes everyday life feel a little easier. As local realtors, we often describe Broadmead as the sweet spot between convenience and serenity. If you want proximity to shopping, schools, and services without the feeling of living “in the city,” this is where many buyers end up. A Community Built Around Nature Unlike many newer subdivisions, Broadmead was designed to preserve its natural environment. Homes are nestled among Garry oaks, arbutus trees, rocky outcrops, and walking paths. Instead of manicured uniformity, the area feels organic, like a neighbourhood that grew out of the land. Buyers are often surprised by how quiet it is. Even on larger streets, there is a softness: muted traffic, birdsong, and the rustling of trees. For anyone coming from denser urban living, it feels like an exhale. Homes with Space and Character Broadmead’s housing stock tends to include larger lots and well-built residences from the 1980s and 1990s. Many retain their original hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings, skylights, and generous floorplans. Updates vary - some owners have renovated kitchens or bathrooms, while others have preserved the style that suits the architecture. The result is variety without chaos. You won’t find rows of identical houses, nor extreme mismatches. Broadmead’s development guidelines have helped maintain a cohesive aesthetic, and that consistency supports long-term property values. Convenience Without the Noise One of Broadmead’s biggest advantages is its location. Residents enjoy quick access to Royal Oak, Elk and Beaver Lake, the Lochside Trail, and several community parks. Groceries, dining, and medical services are minutes away, yet you won’t feel like you’re living beside a commercial zone. Families appreciate the nearby schools and recreation centres. Professionals value the short commute to downtown Victoria or the airport. And retirees enjoy quiet streets, walkable green space, and homes designed with livability in mind. Who Broadmead Appeals To Broadmead tends to attract buyers who want lifestyle stability rather than constant movement. These include: Professionals seeking privacy and a quieter home base Families wanting more outdoor space without rural isolation Retirees looking for a well-maintained community close to amenities Homeowners ready to trade “new and trendy” for timeless and established If you picture yourself sipping coffee on a quiet deck, surrounded by native trees instead of traffic noise, Broadmead will feel like home. Our Realtor Perspective We’ve worked with many clients who initially overlook Broadmead in favour of areas with more immediate flash. After a few tours, they begin to see the appeal. There is a grounded quality here, an easy rhythm of life that doesn’t require explanation. You walk the neighbourhood, you feel how it functions, and you understand why properties rarely stay on the market long. Broadmead isn’t about impressing visitors. It’s about taking care of the people who live there. If you’d like help understanding Broadmead’s market, recent sales, or which properties tend to hold value over time, we’re here to guide you. Lorraine Pelser, 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.” 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.”
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After years of helping clients across Greater Victoria, we’ve learned an important truth. Saanich is one of the most consistently desirable places to live. It offers a balance of nature, schools, amenities, and stable neighbourhoods, all within minutes of the city. Everyday Living Made Easy Saanich offers something for everyone. You can live close to beaches, walking trails, or shops without sacrificing one for the other. The municipality stretches from coastal pockets to quiet residential areas and even rural acreages. This variety gives buyers real choice instead of compromise. Nature at Your Doorstep Locals value how close they are to parks and green space. Mount Douglas (Pkols), Swan Lake, Elk and Beaver Lake, and the coastline around Cadboro Bay are all part of daily life. A morning walk, an after-work trail run, or a family beach outing becomes simple rather than a weekend trip. Neighbourhoods Buyers Love Gordon Head: Spacious lots, quiet streets, and close proximity to UVic. Broadmead: Mature landscaping, preserved nature, and exceptional privacy. Cadboro Bay: Village atmosphere, beach access, and a strong sense of community. Royal Oak: Central location, convenient shopping, and reliable transit. Rural Saanich: Acreages, gardens, and hobby farms while still near amenities. Why Sellers Perform Well Here Saanich homes tend to hold value. The community attracts long-term buyers who prioritize lifestyle and stability. Sellers do best when they highlight walkability, green space, and flexible floorplans such as suites or home offices. Timeless upgrades generally outperform trendy remodels. Our Honest Take Clients often explore Oak Bay, Sidney, Langford, and View Royal, but many return to Saanich. It isn’t flashy. It is livable, reliable, and rooted in lifestyle. For buyers seeking nature, convenience, and long-term comfort, Saanich delivers. Brandon Sharratt, 5-Star Review, via Google “My wife and I sold our condo in View Royal and bought a place in Esquimalt with the help of The Faber Group. Scott helped us to find and buy the perfect home for our growing family in a very competitive market. He got to know our wants and needs and worked within our schedule with a small baby. Once we found the perfect place Scott helped us to get it for under the asking price and sold our condo in one day on the market with multiple offers over asking! We are so grateful that Scott helped us through this process, answering our many questions and alleviating our concerns. Thank you for helping us sell our first home and buy a beautiful house for our family.” 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.”
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As local realtors in Greater Victoria, we’re often asked where clients can find beachside living without sacrificing convenience. Cordova Bay is almost always part of that conversation. Located along the east coast of Saanich, this neighbourhood blends ocean views, quiet streets, and a welcoming community feel that appeals to families, retirees, and professionals alike. The Beach Is the Heart of Cordova Bay Cordova Bay Beach is one of the neighbourhood’s defining features. Its long stretch of sandy shoreline feels peaceful even in summer. Residents walk their dogs, paddleboard before work, or enjoy calm evening sunsets with neighbours. It’s the kind of waterfront that isn’t just a view - it becomes part of your lifestyle. A True Village Feel The neighbourhood centres around amenities like Mattick’s Farm, home to boutique shops, cafés, and local businesses. It’s where residents grab coffee, browse artisan goodies, or stop in after a walk. Golf lovers appreciate having Cordova Bay Golf Course and The Ridge right at their doorstep, and cyclists enjoy easy trail access to Lochside and beyond. Cordova Bay offers a wide spectrum of housing options. Classic coastal homes with large lots and ocean views Modern builds designed for entertaining and privacy Townhomes and well-planned strata communities for low-maintenance living Luxury waterfront estates that rarely hit the market Inventory remains limited because residents tend to stay. When a good home becomes available, it attracts serious interest quickly. Schools, Parks, and Everyday Convenience Families are drawn to the strong school catchments and walkable parks. Nearby amenities like Broadmead Village and Royal Oak keep day-to-day living simple. Many clients choose Cordova Bay because it delivers a relaxed, coastal pace without the inconvenience of being “far away.” Our Realtor’s Take If you’re looking for a neighbourhood that feels like a getaway without leaving the city, Cordova Bay delivers that balance. The beach, the greenery, the village hub, and the character of the homes create a lifestyle that’s difficult to replicate elsewhere in Greater Victoria. Whether you’re downsizing, relocating, or buying your first piece of the island, this community rewards thoughtful buyers who value long-term living. If you’d like a breakdown by budget or housing type, we’re happy to help. Devon Marchtaler, 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 “Building Lasting Relationships, One Home at a Time.”
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