Posts Tagged ‘Westshore homes’

If you are asking what can $800k buy you in Greater Victoria, the answer depends less on the headline market and more on where you want to live, what type of property you want, and how flexible you are on age, size, and condition. In today’s market, $800,000 can still open real options, but it buys very different lifestyles depending on whether you are shopping in the Westshore, core Victoria, or the Saanich Peninsula. That matters because the market is offering buyers more choice than it did a few years ago. In March 2026, the Victoria Real Estate Board reported 579 sales, up 24.5% from February but 5.5% below March 2025, while active listings rose to 3,261, up 12.3% month over month and 7.9% year over year. At the same time, Victoria Core benchmark prices sat at $1,330,200 for a single-family home, $848,500 for a townhome, and $553,800 for a condo. That gives useful context: at $800,000, buyers are generally below the benchmark for detached homes in the core, close to the benchmark for townhomes, and well above the benchmark for many condos. Why $800K Means Different Things in Different Areas Greater Victoria is really a collection of micro-markets. A buyer with an $800,000 budget is not shopping one market. They are choosing between trade-offs. In simple terms: Want more square footage? Westshore usually gives you more. Want walkability and central location? Core Victoria often means condo or older townhome. Want detached potential? You may need to look farther out, accept a smaller home, or take on updates. Want a lower-maintenance lifestyle? This budget is still strong in the condo market. What $800K Usually Buys in Different Parts of Greater Victoria Langford and Westshore This is still one of the strongest areas for value at this price point. Around $800,000, buyers can often find: A newer 2- to 3-bedroom townhome A compact detached home on a smaller lot A larger condo with newer finishes and amenities This is why Langford remains attractive for first-time buyers, upsizers on a budget, and buyers who want newer construction without crossing into core Victoria pricing. Faber Group’s own recent neighbourhood comparison notes that $800,000 in Langford typically buys a newer townhome, a small detached home, or a large modern condo. Esquimalt Esquimalt often sits in an interesting middle ground. At this budget, buyers may find: A well-located townhome A larger condo in a solid building The occasional smaller detached home, half-duplex, or older property needing work For buyers who want to stay close to downtown without paying Fairfield or Oak Bay pricing, Esquimalt can be one of the more practical options. Saanich East and Gordon Head At $800,000, this budget becomes tighter in many East Saanich neighbourhoods. Buyers are more likely to be looking at: Older townhomes Larger condos Smaller detached homes in original condition, when available Faber Group’s local comparison notes that in Gordon Head and Saanich East, $800,000 often means an older townhome, a condo near UVic, or a detached home that needs updates rather than a move-in-ready family house. James Bay and Victoria Core If your goal is walkability, restaurants, downtown access, and a lower-maintenance lifestyle, $800,000 can still go a long way here, just usually not toward detached housing. Typical options may include: A spacious condo in a concrete building A renovated two-bedroom condo Select townhomes, depending on building and location In James Bay especially, this budget often buys lifestyle more than land. That can be a smart trade for downsizers, professionals, or buyers who want to live close to the Inner Harbour and Dallas Road. Fairfield Fairfield is one of those neighbourhoods where $800,000 buys access, not abundance. Buyers are usually looking at: Smaller condos Garden-level or older units Select townhomes or leasehold opportunities Detached character homes in Fairfield generally sit well above this range, so buyers need to be realistic about what the budget is buying here: location, charm, and walkability. Sidney and the Saanich Peninsula In Sidney, $800,000 can still be competitive, but buyers are often choosing between: A quality condo with good square footage A townhome A smaller or older detached option, depending on exact location and condition This area tends to attract downsizers and buyers focused on lifestyle, walkability, and proximity to the waterfront, airport, and ferries. What Buyers Need to Watch at This Price Point An $800,000 budget can create opportunity, but it also creates decision pressure because the options vary so much. The right buy is often less about the list price and more about the full package. Key things to watch: Property type: Condo, townhome, half-duplex, and detached homes each come with different long-term costs. Strata fees: A lower purchase price can be offset by high monthly fees. Condition: Older detached homes may need roof, windows, plumbing, or electrical work. Location trade-offs: More space often means moving farther from the core. Resale strength: Walkability, school catchments, transit, and layout still matter at every price point. The Bigger Picture The current market is giving buyers more breathing room than the high-pressure conditions of recent years. With active listings up and inventory giving people more choice, buyers at the $800,000 price point have room to compare neighbourhoods and think more carefully about the lifestyle they actually want. That said, this is still not a one-size-fits-all budget. In some parts of Greater Victoria, $800,000 buys a very comfortable townhome or condo. In others, it may only buy an entry point. The smartest move is to decide first what matters most to you: space, location, condition, or future upside. Final Thoughts So, what can $800k buy you in Greater Victoria? In most cases, it buys choice, but not the same kind of choice everywhere. In the Westshore, it may mean more home for the money. In core Victoria, it often means a strong lifestyle property. In tighter neighbourhoods, it may mean getting creative on property type or condition. If you want help comparing where $800,000 will stretch the furthest based on your goals, contact Faber Real Estate Group for advice on the best-fit neighbourhoods and current opportunities across Greater Victoria.   Rose, 5-Star Review, via Google “Terrific team. Cal and Vanessa were knowledgeable, patient, and listened to what our needs and concerns were. Vanessa was a ray of sunshine in an often grey winter house hunt.” 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.”

Perimeter drains, also known as foundation drains, are a critical part of a home’s waterproofing system. They direct water away from your foundation and help prevent basement flooding, water damage, and long-term structural issues. For homeowners in Victoria, BC, regular perimeter drain inspections are essential, especially given the region’s wet winters. Why Perimeter Drains Matter A functioning perimeter drain system protects your home’s foundation from excessive moisture. Without proper drainage, water can accumulate around the foundation, leading to leaks, mould growth, and even structural damage. Older homes, or those with heavy rainfall exposure, are particularly at risk. Signs You Might Need an Inspection Damp or wet basement walls Musty or mouldy odours in lower levels Soil erosion near the foundation Previous history of basement flooding Even if your home shows no visible signs of water intrusion, periodic inspections can catch early problems before they become costly repairs. What Happens During an Inspection Certified contractors inspect the condition of the perimeter drain system, checking for blockages, crushed pipes, or silt buildup. They may also test the slope of the soil around the foundation and examine sump pump function to ensure water is being directed properly away from the home. Benefits of Regular Inspections Prevent Costly Damage: Early detection of blockages or pipe deterioration avoids expensive basement repairs. Maintain Property Value: A dry, well-maintained basement increases buyer confidence and resale appeal. Peace of Mind: Knowing your drainage system is working protects your home from seasonal water issues. Maintenance Tips Ensure downspouts direct water at least 1.5–2 metres from the foundation Keep landscaping slopes away from the home Schedule professional perimeter drain inspections every 5–10 years, or sooner if you notice water issues Professional Help Perimeter drain inspection and maintenance are not DIY tasks. Licensed contractors in Victoria have the tools and experience to identify issues accurately and recommend effective solutions. If you’re unsure of your system’s condition, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional guidance. Final Thoughts For homeowners in Greater Victoria, perimeter drains are an often-overlooked part of maintaining a safe and dry home. Regular inspections and proper maintenance protect your foundation, prevent water damage, and preserve your home’s value — making them a smart investment for any property owner.   Darcie R., 5-Star Review, via Google “We had the best experience with Scott and the Faber Group team helping us buy our first house! From start to finish it was a positive experience, & Scott went the extra mile every chance he could. Based on our search parameters, we didn’t even come across this house, but using his expertise, he was able to find us our dream home that matched all of our criteria! We are so beyond happy and would absolutely recommend reaching out to Scott if you are looking to buy an amazing 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.”