Posts Tagged ‘Westshore real estate’

The Westshore is one of the most dynamic and diverse regions in Greater Victoria. Each community offers something unique, from family friendly streets to quiet natural escapes to vibrant areas close to shops and recreation. As local real estate professionals, we have seen how the right neighbourhood can truly enhance a buyer's lifestyle. Here are some of the top Westshore areas to consider based on what matters most to you. For Families Seeking Space and Community: Langford and ColwoodFamilies often gravitate to Langford and Colwood because these communities blend convenience, value, and outdoor access. Langford offers newer homes, well planned subdivisions, and many parks and recreation centres. Colwood provides a quieter atmosphere with established streets, ocean views, and easy access to schools and beaches. Both areas continue to grow while maintaining a strong sense of community. For Professionals Seeking Convenience and Modern Living: Westhills and Royal BayProfessionals appreciate neighbourhoods that offer quick access to amenities and an easy commute. Westhills in Langford is known for its modern homes, walkability to shopping and recreation, and connectivity to transit routes. Royal Bay in Colwood continues to evolve into a coastal village with new dining options, green spaces, and a fresh seaside feel. Both neighbourhoods offer a balanced lifestyle that supports busy schedules. For Retirees Seeking Nature and Peace: Metchosin and HighlandsThose looking for privacy, natural beauty, and a slower pace often fall in love with Metchosin and the Highlands. Metchosin charms with rural acreage, oceanfront trails, and a warm village atmosphere. The Highlands appeals to those who want a forested retreat with easy access to Gowlland Tod Provincial Park and nearby amenities. These areas offer a peaceful environment while remaining close to the conveniences of the Westshore. For Buyers Seeking Value: Langford Lake and Happy ValleyLangford Lake and Happy Valley offer attractive price points without sacrificing lifestyle benefits. Langford Lake provides waterfront access, trails, and a relaxed lakeside vibe. Happy Valley features family oriented neighbourhoods and a mix of newer homes with scenic surroundings. Both areas give buyers excellent value and strong long term potential. For Active Lifestyles: Bear MountainBuyers who love recreation often choose Bear Mountain. With golf courses, tennis facilities, hiking trails, and resort style amenities, it is ideal for those who want an active everyday lifestyle. The community also offers a mix of condos, townhomes, and luxury residences that appeal to many types of buyers. The Westshore truly offers a neighbourhood for every lifestyle. Whether you are starting a family, planning retirement, or looking for a fresh place to call home, we would be happy to help you explore the area and find the community that feels like the right fit. Grace C., 5-Star Review, via Google “Zach is very pleasant and professional at all times. He's great to work with. He helped us find a great home for our family. Thank you ” 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.”

When buyers explore Greater Victoria real estate, one of the first comparisons they make is value per square foot. It becomes clear that the Westshore consistently offers more space for the price. Communities like Langford, Colwood, View Royal, and Highlands continue to attract families, professionals, and investors who want modern amenities without sacrificing room to grow. More Land and Newer Builds Westshore neighbourhoods benefit from newer planning and development. Homes often sit on wider lots and feature larger floor plans designed for contemporary living. Many builders prioritize open concept layouts, functional kitchens, and multi purpose rooms. The result is a home that feels spacious and adaptable at a price point that can be more attainable than central Victoria or Saanich. Expanding Infrastructure and Amenities Quality of life is a major reason value per square foot stays strong in Westshore. Westshore parks, schools, recreation centres, trails, and shopping hubs continue to expand. The region’s growth supports local businesses and makes daily life more convenient. Amenities such as Royal Roads University, the Galloping Goose, Langford Lake, and sports facilities make it easy for residents to enjoy the community without a long commute. Lifestyle Benefits with Room to Breathe Many buyers are looking for more than just a home. They want a lifestyle that supports family activities, work from home flexibility, and outdoor recreation. Westshore delivers all of these with more space inside and outside. A larger yard, an extra bedroom, or a designated office provide long term comfort and better resale appeal as these needs become more common. Investment Potential The value per square foot seen in Westshore is not only beneficial at purchase. It also offers long term opportunity. Continued population growth and the addition of new amenities can strengthen market demand. As more buyers expand beyond Victoria’s core, well located Westshore homes often see steady appreciation while still giving more space for the money spent. Is Westshore the Right Move for You If you are looking for more room, newer construction, and a strong community feel, Westshore is worth exploring. Understanding value per square foot helps buyers look beyond sale price and see the lifestyle and long term benefits that come with their investment. 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 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 “Building Lasting Relationships, One Home at a Time.”

Choosing where to live in Greater Victoria is about more than just the house; it’s about lifestyle, convenience, and community. Areas like Langford, View Royal, and Sooke have grown in popularity for good reason. They offer a unique combination of space, lifestyle, and value that can be hard to find in the city core. More Space for the Money One of the biggest advantages of suburban living is the amount of space you can get for your budget. Homes in Langford, View Royal, and Sooke often come with larger lots, multiple bedrooms, and garages. Whether you are looking for room for a growing family, a backyard for pets, or extra storage, suburbs provide options that are harder to find in downtown Victoria. Modern Homes and New Developments Suburban communities often feature newer construction, townhomes, and family-friendly developments. Many properties come with modern layouts, updated appliances, and energy-efficient features. This is especially appealing for buyers who want to avoid costly renovations or enjoy contemporary finishes from day one. Access to Nature and Outdoor Activities Living in these areas puts you closer to some of the region’s most beautiful natural spaces. Sooke offers beaches, hiking trails, and parks. Langford and View Royal have local parks, walking paths, and convenient access to cycling routes. If your lifestyle includes outdoor recreation, suburban living can make it easier to enjoy it every day. Strong Community Feel Suburban neighbourhoods often foster a tight-knit sense of community. Local schools, community centres, and family-friendly events help residents feel connected. Whether it’s participating in a farmers’ market, attending a local festival, or simply meeting neighbours at the park, these areas offer a welcoming environment that is ideal for families and newcomers alike. Convenient Amenities and Growing Services While suburban living offers more space, it doesn’t mean sacrificing convenience. Langford, View Royal, and Sooke have shopping centres, restaurants, gyms, and essential services within easy reach. Many areas are expanding rapidly, bringing in new stores, medical facilities, and recreational options, making day-to-day life easier for residents. The Bottom Line Suburban communities like Langford, View Royal, and Sooke offer a balance of space, lifestyle, and convenience that appeals to a wide range of buyers. Whether you are a young family, a professional looking for more room, or someone seeking a quieter lifestyle without giving up amenities, these areas provide options that combine value and quality of life. As realtors in Greater Victoria, we help buyers explore these suburban markets, compare properties, and find the right fit for their needs. For many, the suburbs provide not just a home but a lifestyle that supports both family life and personal freedom.   Marieke de Jongh , 5-Star Review, via Google “We had a fantastic experience with Cal and Scott. From the first meeting via Zoom until the moment we received the keys to our new home. They are very kind and warm people, and made us feel at home and welcome right away. Scott is very knowledgeable, easy to work with, professional, honest and quick to respond to questions. We felt in good hands and comfortable having him at our side in our buying process. When looking for a great realtor in the Victoria area, I would highly recommend Cal and Scott from Faber Real Estate Group.” 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.”

Choosing between a brand new home and an established property is one of the biggest decisions buyers face in the Westshore. With communities like Langford, Colwood, View Royal, and the Highlands evolving quickly, both options come with unique benefits. As local real estate professionals, we often help clients explore which type of home truly fits their lifestyle and long term goals. The Appeal of New Homes New builds in Westshore neighborhoods offer contemporary design, energy efficient technology, and modern layouts. Open concept living areas, larger primary suites, and functional kitchens are now standard. These homes usually include updated heating systems such as heat pumps and smart home features that help reduce monthly utility costs. Warranty coverage is another major advantage. Buyers typically receive protection through BC’s New Home Warranty program, which covers materials, labor, and structural elements for several years. For many homeowners, this brings peace of mind and less worry about unexpected repairs. New developments also come with planned community features. Westhills, Royal Bay, and Bear Mountain often integrate parks, trails, schools, and shopping within walking distance. Families and professionals appreciate this sense of convenience without having to leave the Westshore. The Strength of Established Homes Established properties provide character, mature landscaping, and a better sense of community. Older streets often have larger lots, quieter roadways, and an established neighborhood identity. Trees provide shade, yards offer privacy, and amenities have been tested over time. These homes tend to be built with durable materials and traditional layouts suited to long term living. Renovations can be more purposeful, allowing homeowners to modernize specific areas rather than pay for upgrades they do not want or need. Many established neighborhoods also see stronger resale stability because their appeal does not rely solely on new construction trends. Maintenance is an important consideration. Roofing, plumbing, electrical work, and windows may require attention sooner than in a newer home. However, many Westshore sellers have already updated these systems, which can result in excellent value for buyers who prefer move in ready living. Which Option Is Right for You? The best fit depends on lifestyle and expectations. Those who prefer modern layouts, energy efficiency, and a low maintenance start often lean toward new homes. Others who value privacy, lot size, and established communities may find greater comfort in older properties. Our role is to help clients weigh these priorities against budget, location, and long term plans. Whether you envision living steps from a brand new school in Langford or settling into a mature View Royal street, the Westshore has a home type for every stage of life. Lou N., 5-Star Review, via Google “Scott is a knowledgeable, professional, dedicated and thorough expert in his field. Excellent at what he does and we couldn't have found a better realtor to guide us through one of the most important decisions in our lives.” 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.”

As realtors who have worked through hot cycles, slowdowns, and everything in between, we can confidently say that Greater Victoria is currently a balanced market. Not the runaway bidding wars of 2021-2022, and not the ultra-cautious environment immediately after the interest rate hikes. Instead, we’re in a middle ground where good properties sell, and buyers have room to think. Inventory and Sales Pressure The clearest indicator of balance is inventory relative to demand. At the end of October 2025, the Victoria Real Estate Board recorded 3,423 active listings across Greater Victoria. That’s well above the extremely low inventory levels of the pandemic boom, but it isn’t oversupply. It allows buyers to compare options without forcing sellers to slash prices. The sales-to-active-listings ratio sits around 18-20 percent. Industry standards consider roughly 12-16 percent a buyer’s market and 20-28 percent a seller’s market. The mid-to-high teens is the territory we call balanced. In practice, this means neither side has full leverage: buyers can negotiate, and sellers can still get fair results when priced correctly. What Prices Are Doing Prices in 2025 are steady overall, though the behavior varies by product type. The benchmark price for a single-family home in the Victoria core is approximately $1,276,500. That is down about 1.8 percent from 2024. The drop is far from a crash; it’s more of a normalization after years of outsized growth. Condominiums are holding firm. The benchmark condo price in the core is just over $551,000, up roughly 0.6 percent year-over-year. This segment benefits from affordability pressures and downsizers returning to the city. Townhomes sit in between. Average sales this year hover around $815,000, with a median around $794,500. They offer more space than a condo without the single-family price tag, and they remain attractive to young families. Across all property types, homes are selling close to listing price. Most transactions land in the 97-98 percent of asking range, which is another sign of equilibrium. When a market favors sellers, you see multiple offers and over-asking. In a soft market, homes sell well below list. Right now, neither extreme is dominant. How This Feels on the Ground If you’re a buyer, you can breathe. You’re no longer racing through 15-minute showings only to hear the home sold before you’ve reached your car. You can walk through several properties, compare finishes and layouts, and analyze monthly costs. You still need pre-approval and a strategic approach, but you have the luxury of choice. If you’re a seller, strategy matters more than ever. A well-priced home in a core neighbourhood like Fairfield, Oak Bay, or East Saanich still attracts strong attention. Listings that land above the comparable range or need too much work for today’s buyers will sit. Presentation, staging, and timing have become essential strategies again rather than optional add-ons. Why Balanced Markets Are Often the Best Balanced markets tend to be healthier and more sustainable. In an overheated market, buyers stretch beyond comfort, waive due diligence, and often regret the decisions that follow. In a weak market, sellers feel trapped or discouraged. Balance creates clarity. It allows everyone involved to act rationally, negotiate fairly, and make informed decisions. The Greater Victoria market is dynamic by nature. It reacts to interest rates, lifestyle migration, limited land supply, and the value people place on this region. But right now, the numbers and the day-to-day experience line up: this is not a market tilted heavily toward either party. It is one in which preparation and proper advice matter more than brute force. Justine Dancey, 5-Star Review, via Google “Cal and Scott treated us like family. We had only 5 days to find a home and Cal cleared his schedule to make himself available to us. Cal guided us in the purchase of our home, as if we were a member of his family asking for advice. I knew we could trust Cal. His service to us did not stop with the purchase of our home…he helped us find trades people and provided information about rental incomes in the area. We were new to the Island and I honestly felt that Cal adopted us and has made sure we had everything we needed. 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!!!” 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.”

After many years working with buyers across Victoria and the Westshore, we can tell you that the biggest shock rarely comes from the purchase price but from everything else that gets layered on top. New buyers tend to focus on the mortgage payment alone, but the real financial picture includes closing costs, maintenance, taxes, and lifestyle adjustments. If you want to feel comfortable and confident in your first year of ownership, it’s essential to budget for more than just the loan. Legal Fees and Title Costs Every home purchase in British Columbia requires a lawyer or notary to complete the deal. For most properties in Greater Victoria, legal fees typically fall between $1,400 and $2,500 depending on the complexity of the transfer, whether you’re purchasing a condo, and whether your lender has extra requirements. This is non-negotiable. Your lawyer or notary will handle title transfer, mortgage registration, trust funds, and coordinate with your bank and the seller’s legal team. Property Transfer Tax (PTT) This is the one that surprises buyers the most, especially those relocating from provinces with different rules. In BC, the Property Transfer Tax is: 1% on the first $200,000 of the purchase price 2% on the portion from $200,000 to $2 million 3% above $2 million If you’re not a first-time buyer and you buy a $900,000 home, the tax alone is thousands of dollars due at closing. Some exemptions exist for qualified first-time buyers and for certain new construction properties, but those apply in fewer cases than people expect. It’s critical to verify your eligibility before you shop. Inspections and Due Diligence Even though inspections aren’t legally required, skipping them is a costly gamble in Victoria’s market. Older homes, especially in areas like Oak Bay, Fernwood, or parts of Saanich, may have aging infrastructure, knob-and-tube wiring, or perimeter drains that haven’t been touched since the 1980s. A typical inspection ranges from $500 to $800, more if you add sewer scope, mold testing, or specialized assessments. It is one of the best investments you can make. Insurance: Annual Premiums and Lender Requirements Before a lender will release funds, you must carry home insurance. In Victoria, premiums vary widely based on the age of the home, proximity to the ocean, heating type, and whether you have a mortgage helper or short-term rental. A safe estimate is $1,200 to $2,500 annually. Condos require strata insurance, and owners must also carry their own contents and liability policy. Do not assume the building coverage protects you as it rarely covers your unit or deductible. Strata Fees and Special Assessments If you purchase a condo or townhome, monthly strata fees cover shared areas, building insurance, landscaping, and long-term maintenance funds. Newer buildings may have higher fees if they include amenities like gyms or pools. What many buyers fail to budget for is special assessments. These are extra charges levied for major repairs, such as elevator replacements, roofing projects, or exterior remediation. We always advise reviewing strata documents, depreciation reports, and meeting minutes before you write an offer. You’re not only purchasing the unit itself, you’re also investing in the financial condition of the entire building. Maintenance and Repairs Homeownership comes with the responsibility of ongoing upkeep. Even well-maintained properties need regular service: heat pumps, gutters, roof moss removal, appliance replacements, driveway sealing, and routine landscaping. A general rule is to have 1–2% of the home’s value set aside annually for maintenance. In Victoria, where moisture and mild winters accelerate wear and tear, buyers who skip this category are often caught off guard. Moving and Lifestyle Changes The final cost most people overlook is the one that impacts their daily life. Moving expenses, furniture purchases, strata move-in fees, utility deposits, or landscaping for a bigger yard. If you’re moving for lifestyle reasons, expect costs you may not have planned for. Living in View Royal or Metchosin could mean longer commute times, a downtown condo might require paid parking, and a property near the shoreline often needs added protection from salt air exposure. The Bottom Line The mortgage is just one piece of a much larger picture. Successful homeowners budget realistically, not optimistically. They prepare for legal fees, taxes, inspections, maintenance, insurance, and the rhythms of real life after the keys change hands. Fortunately, with proper planning, these expenses can be manageable. As a team that has guided Victoria buyers through every type of purchase from heritage homes to brand-new condos, our best advice is simple: understand the full financial journey, not just the monthly payment.   Liam Grigg, 5-Star Review, via Google “The real estate market felt daunting, especially when it was our first time entering it. But, working with Scott made the whole process so much easier. He was really excellent at asking questions, showing us a variety of places, and helping us narrow down exactly what we were looking for. Scott was flexible, never pushy, and I really felt supported by him throughout! He made a big difference in helping us find THE place and we couldn’t do it without him. I can’t wait to work with Scott again in the future.” 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.”