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For many buyers entering the market in 2026, the first-time buyer West Shore market continues to stand out. Langford and Colwood offer more attainable price points than many core Victoria neighbourhoods, while still providing strong amenities, transit access, and long-term growth potential. These communities attract first-time buyers who want value without sacrificing lifestyle or resale prospects. Langford: Entry-Level Options With Urban Convenience Langford remains one of the most accessible markets for first-time buyers on the South Island. What buyers can expect: Condominiums and newer townhomes often priced below comparable properties in Victoria proper Walkable pockets near Westshore Town Centre, Belmont Market, and major employers Consistent new construction, which helps maintain supply and choice For a first-time buyer West Shore strategy, Langford offers flexibility. Buyers can often choose between established resale condos or newer builds with modern layouts and warranties. Colwood: Stability, Community, and Long-Term Value Colwood tends to appeal to buyers who prioritize neighbourhood feel and long-term ownership. Key advantages include: Townhomes and older single-family homes that remain more attainable than core Victoria Proximity to schools, parks, and the Esquimalt Lagoon Slower turnover, which supports stable values over time While inventory can be tighter than Langford, Colwood rewards patience, especially for buyers seeking more space at an entry-level price point. Typical Affordable Entry Points in 2026 While market conditions continue to shift, first-time buyers in the West Shore commonly focus on: One- and two-bedroom condos Stacked or traditional townhomes Older single-family homes requiring cosmetic updates Understanding strata fees, future maintenance costs, and neighbourhood development plans is essential when evaluating affordability. Key Tips for First-Time Buyers Get pre-approved early to move quickly when the right property appears Compare total monthly costs, not just purchase price Consider resale potential alongside affordability A thoughtful approach helps first-time buyers balance short-term budget comfort with long-term equity growth. Final Thoughts For buyers entering the market in 2026, the first-time buyer West Shore opportunity remains strong. Langford offers choice and convenience, while Colwood provides community and stability. With the right guidance and preparation, both areas can serve as smart entry points into Greater Victoria real estate.   Shauna S., 5-Star Review, via Google “Both Scott and Cal assisted us in selling and purchasing. It was a big move for us but they both assisted us in getting more than we initially expected and getting us into a really great property. They helped us work through some issues on both ends and were very professional and helpful! We recommend them to our friends and family who need an agent.” 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.”

Moving into a new home is an exciting milestone, and choosing the right gift helps make the transition even more memorable. In Greater Victoria, the best gifts for new homeowners combine practicality, local flavour, and everyday usefulness. These ideas go beyond the standard bottle of wine and help new residents feel at home faster. Local Restaurant and Cafe Gift Cards One of the easiest ways to explore a new neighbourhood is through food. A local restaurant or cafe gift card gives new homeowners a break from unpacking and cooking. Popular options include: Il Terrazzo for a relaxed Italian dinner downtown Agrius for farm-to-table Pacific Northwest cuisine Jam Cafe for well-loved brunch classics Union Pacific Coffee Co. for quality coffee and a neighbourhood vibe These gifts work well for quick meals, casual coffee runs, or special nights out. Practical Home Essentials Practical gifts are often the most appreciated, especially in the first few weeks. Thoughtful choices include: Eco-friendly cleaning supplies from local shops Hand soap and lotion sets from local makers or markets A durable, stylish doormat for instant curb appeal These items are useful, easy to personalize, and suitable for most homes. Local Experiences and Entertainment Experiential gifts help new homeowners connect with their city. Good options include: Passes to the Royal BC Museum or Craigdarroch Castle Seasonal memberships to The Butchart Gardens Brewery or winery tastings from local producers Gift cards to independent bookstores like Munro’s Books These experiences encourage exploration and make settling in more enjoyable. Greenery and Garden Gifts Victoria’s mild climate makes plant-related gifts a natural fit. Consider: Low-maintenance houseplants from local nurseries Nursery gift cards for gardeners Herb kits or seed packets for balconies or kitchens Greenery adds warmth and life to any space. Personalized Gifts Personalized items add a lasting touch. Popular ideas include: Custom map prints of their neighbourhood Engraved cutting boards with names or move-in dates These gifts feel intentional and meaningful without being overly decorative. Final Thoughts The best gifts for new homeowners in Greater Victoria are practical, locally inspired, and easy to enjoy right away. Whether you choose an experience, a home essential, or something personalized, thoughtful gifting helps new homeowners feel connected to their community from day one. Gary B., 5-Star Review, via Google “We bought a apartment and sold an apartment through Faber Group. It was a pleasure working with them, sold our apartment in one day at full price. No request was too much for them.” 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 comes alive in the winter months with a variety of engaging events that appeal to residents and visitors alike. From culinary celebrations to theatre performances and community gatherings, January and February 2026 offer plenty of opportunities to get out, explore, and connect. Here’s a look at notable events to mark on your calendar. Dine Around & Stay in Town Victoria One of Victoria’s most popular winter traditions returns from January 23 to February 8, 2026. During Dine Around & Stay in Town, more than 60 local restaurants offer specially priced multi‑course menus, paired with exclusive hotel packages. The event is designed to support local hospitality while giving residents and visitors a chance to sample a diverse range of dining experiences across the city. The gala launch takes place on January 22 at Victoria Conference Centre - Crystal Garden, featuring bites and sips from top restaurants, wineries, breweries, and live entertainment. Tourism Victoria Magic at the Museum For a unique evening experience, Magic at the Museum takes place on January 22 and January 23 at the Royal BC Museum. These ticketed sessions combine close‑up magic with the museum’s captivating exhibits, creating an entertaining night out for adults. Royal BC Museum and Archives Music and Performing Arts January and February bring lively performances to local venues: International Guitar Night and a Comedy Department show at the Farquhar at UVic offer diverse artistic experiences late January. Royal City Music Project The Victoria Symphony presents Peer Gynt on February 1 and a program featuring Fauré and Saint‑Saëns on February 6 — ideal for classical music fans. Royal City Music Project Opera lovers can enjoy Tosca by Pacific Opera Victoria on February 18. Royal City Music Project These events take place at respected cultural venues such as Royal Theatre and Cameron Bandshell, offering high‑quality entertainment throughout the season. Young at Heart Seniors Expo On February 4, the Greater Victoria Young at Heart Seniors Expo at Tillicum Centre (free admission) celebrates community connection and wellness for older adults. The expo features vendors, activities, and resources aimed at promoting an active, connected lifestyle. Eventbrite Victoria at Dusk and Storytelling Events In mid‑February, the Victoria at Dusk series offers free light installations and outdoor exploration experiences around the city from February 13 to 15. On Valentine’s Day evening, The Story Collection presents storytelling about love at the Royal BC Museum — a creative way to celebrate the season. Royal BC Museum and Archives Conferences and Professional Events For business and professional audiences, several summits and conferences are scheduled: the IMPACT Sustainability Travel & Tourism Conference (January 26–28) at Victoria Conference Centre, The Leadership Summit (February 11–13), and the Western Angel Investment Summit (February 19–20). 10times+1 Whether you’re interested in food and drink, arts and culture, sports, or professional networking, Victoria’s winter calendar offers events to suit a wide range of interests. With options for families, adults, and seniors alike, January and February provide a vibrant lineup to explore and enjoy.   Justine D., 5-Star Review, via Google “We did not just gain a realtor, but a friend. If you are looking for a realtor you can TRUST, and will look out for YOUR interests— then Cal and Scott are IT!!! I would recommend them to anyone looking to buy a home on the Island. I should also mention that Cal negotiated an amazing price on the purchase of our home and made sure if something was not right when we took possession that it would be taken care of. Cal and Scott and realtors with integrity and kindness. ” 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.”

Energy efficiency has become a major priority for homeowners and buyers alike. With many homes in Victoria built before modern energy standards, retrofitting older properties is one of the most effective ways to improve comfort, reduce utility costs, and increase long term value. Understanding the available rebates and the costs associated with these upgrades can help homeowners make informed decisions. Major Rebates and Incentives for Homeowners Provincial and utility programs significantly offset the upfront cost of retrofitting. The most prominent are delivered through the CleanBC Better Homes initiative, in partnership with FortisBC and BC Hydro. CleanBC Better Homes / Home Renovation Rebates: This program provides rebates for a broad range of upgrades, including heat pumps, insulation, windows, and doors. Total rebate amounts can reach up to $14,000 or more, depending on your project's scope and eligibility. Insulation Upgrades: Up to $5,500. Rebate varies by location and type. Heat Pump Systems: Rebates vary widely by heat pump type, with electric heat pumps generally qualifying for higher amounts. Bonus Rebates: The program offers bonuses for completing multiple upgrades, for example, a two-upgrade or three-upgrade bonus. Income-Qualified Programs: CleanBC offers enhanced rebates (up to 95% of upgrade costs, depending on income) through its Energy Savings Program for low- and middle-income households. This can cover major costs like heat pump installation. Canada Greener Homes Grant & Loan: This federal initiative provides grants of up to $5,000 and an interest-free loan of up to $40,000 to cover retrofits recommended by a certified energy advisor. Resource Link: The main hub for all these programs is the CleanBC Better Homes website (Check eligibility and current offers at https://www.betterhomesbc.ca/). Local Support for Victoria Residents Victoria homeowners have access to free local support to simplify the process. Home Energy Navigator: This program offers free, personalized guidance, connecting you with an Energy Concierge who provides support to help you understand available rebates, review quotes, and navigate applications. This service is invaluable when planning extensive upgrades. Resource Link: Learn more about this regional service at the Home Energy Navigator website (Find local support at https://homeenergynav.ca/). Typical Retrofit Costs to Budget For Actual costs vary widely based on your home’s size and condition. Here is a general sense of the pre-rebate investment range for common items: Heat Pump Installation: Costs are typically in the range of $12,000 to $20,000+ for full systems, before rebates. Attic/Wall Insulation: Costs can run from several thousand dollars for attics or walls, depending on accessibility and materials. Window and Door Replacement: Replacement generally ranges from $700 to $1,500+ per unit installed, depending on size and performance ratings. While rebates offset a meaningful portion of these costs, many programs require upfront expenditure with rebates issued after completion and application approval. Early planning, including booking an EnerGuide home evaluation before work begins, is critical to ensuring eligibility for the maximum rebates. Real Estate Value and Homeowner Benefit From a realtor’s perspective, homes with documented energy upgrades attract interest from buyers seeking lower operating costs and long-term sustainability. Energy efficiency improvements often pay dividends beyond rebate dollars in higher sale prices, faster market absorption, and improved buyer confidence. Living the green life in Victoria, BC, is both financially and environmentally sound. Start with a professional energy assessment and plan your upgrades strategically to maximize the available incentives.   Spencer Mowat, 5-Star Review, via Google “Where do I begin, the professionalism I've received from my realtor and friend Scott Faber @fabergroup has been a great experience, his knowledge of the market and work ethic is truley impressive. Excacly how it should be when your making one of the biggest purchases of your life!” 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.”