Upcoming New Legislative Changes

There are new provincial and municipal legislative changes coming soon related to short-term rentals. The province defines short-term rentals as accomodations rented out for a period of less than 90 consecutive days. The new rules will apply to cities with a population of 10,000 or greater. British Columbia's provincial rules allow each municipality to determine their specific regulations and bylaws.

There is much debate about whether tightening the current rules in place will improve the rental market situation. 

The BC goverment issued a news release on Oct.16th, 2023 regarding the introduction of legislation to regulate the short term rental market. The purpose for this amendment is an attempt to alleviate…

1114 Views, 0 Comments

Rural Real Estate

As the charming coastal city of Victoria continues to capture the hearts of homebuyers and investors, the spotlight has begun to shine on the hidden gems nestled in the rural outskirts of this vibrant city. Victoria, known for its historic architecture, picturesque gardens and bustling cultural scene, is surrounded by the natural beauty of Vancouver Island. A unique opportunity awaits those seeking a tranquil escape without sacrificing the conveniences of urban living.

Serene Scenery and Abundant Nature

One of the primary draws of the rural properties in Greater Victoria is the breathtaking natural beauty that envelops these areas. From sprawling acreages to waterfront properties offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean,…

681 Views, 0 Comments

VICTORIA MARKET REPORT - Oct. 2023


While value of homes in Victoria remains stable,
the cost to own continues to rise

 

October 3, 2023  A total of 493 properties sold in the Victoria Real Estate Board region this September, 20.2 percent more than the 410 properties sold in September 2022 and a 9.4 percent decrease from August 2023. Sales of condominiums were up 23 per cent from September 2022 with 155 units sold. Sales of single family homes increased 3.2 percent from September 2022 with 228 sold.

 

“What we saw in our market last month was a continuation of the seasonal market trend we expect in a typical year as we move into fall,” said Victoria Real Estate Board Chair Graden Sol. “We have seen a slight return to a more balanced…

504 Views, 0 Comments


Stephen Foster's - 'Homes For Sale'


I am pleased to highlight my currently active listings for sale on Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands below.

If you're a home buyer or you just want to browse through my homes for sale, simply click on the listing photos to learn more about each property.



You can also check out my latest YouTube videos for the full virtual tours of my current listings at the link below. Hit the 'subscribe' button to watch my new tours as soon as they're published.  

Click on the logo to view


145292 Views, 0 Comments

VICTORIA MARKET REPORT - Sept. 2023

Victoria real estate market needs better mix of housing supply to help restore balance

September 1, 2023  A total of 544 properties sold in the Victoria Real Estate Board region this August, 13.8 per cent more than the 478 properties sold in August 2022 and an 8.6 per cent decrease from July 2023. Sales of condominiums were up 10.8 per cent from August 2022 with 164 units sold. Sales of single family homes increased 9.6 per cent from August 2022 with 273 sold.

"Real estate activity this month reflected what we'd expect to see in an average late summer housing market," said Victoria Real Estate Board Chair Graden Sol. "The beginning of the month was reasonably slow, and sales ramped up through the last half of the…

800 Views, 0 Comments

Is your home READY for extreme weather?


BC experiences annual recurrent wildfires and floods. Approximately 60% of the wildfires are from natural causes, while extreme weather and mass flooding causes significant damage to communities and hundreds of homes in the province.

Climate change is a major concern for many British Columbians and preparing for as well as mitigating the climate change disasters was a significan focus during the last federal election.

It is crucial to be aware  of how extreme weather events like wildfires and flooding can impact decisions when buying or selling homes.  Equipping yourself with knowledge will allow you to make well informed choices.

To help you prepare for unforeseen disasters, here are some valuable…

409 Views, 0 Comments

Victoria Market Report - August 2023

Victoria real estate sales reflect summer trends

August 1, 2023  A total of 595 properties sold in the Victoria Real Estate Board region this July, 16.7 per cent more than the 510 properties sold in July 2022 and a 15.6 per cent decrease from June 2023. Sales of condominiums were up 16.3 per cent from July 2022 with 200 units sold. Sales of single family homes increased 15.4 per cent from July 2022 with 293 sold.
"We talked about the return to seasonal norms last month," said Victoria Real Estate Board Chair Graden Sol. "The July numbers reinforce the re-establishment of seasonal patterns with a slow-down in activity as the summer season set in. This dip in activity doesn't come as a surprise - it…

607 Views, 0 Comments


Coastal Living On Cortes Island


Cortes Island is one of the Discovery Islands situated between Vancouver Island and the mainland. It is accessible by boat or ferry from Campbell River or Quadra Island.

A hidden gem with breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, lush vegetation and a pristine shoreline. Cortes offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.  Whether you seek outdoor adventures, artistic inspiration or a a place to reconnect with nature, it has something magical to offer everyone.

Imagine waking up to the sound of waves lapping against the shore or enjoying your morning coffee while watching the sunrise over the water. The island provides and abundance of privacy and tranquility.

Real Estate on Cortes:


1277 Views, 0 Comments

Coastal & Inland Communities of the Cowichan Valley

The boundaries of the Cowichan Valley region are not strictly defined on a map, however they generally encompass the southern coastline of Cowichan Bay to the northern edge of the Cowichan Lake area. The main communities within the valley include Shawnigan, Mill Bay, Cobble Hill, Cowichan Lake and Duncan.

Its name comes from the Cowichan First Nations who have inhabited the area for thousands of years. The valley has rich Indigenous heritage and the Cowichan Tribes play an essential role in the region's cultural fabric. 

The scenic drive from Shawnigan to Duncan offers a delightful journey through diverse landscapes. As you embark on this drive, you'll experience the beauty of the regions lush…

1231 Views, 0 Comments

VICTORIA MARKET REPORT - July 2023


Conclusion of a strong spring Victoria real estate market

July 4, 2023  A total of 705 properties sold in the Victoria Real Estate Board region this June, 15.2 per cent more than the 612 properties sold in June 2022 and a 9 per cent decrease from May 2023. Sales of condominiums were up 19.8 per cent from June 2022 with 242 units sold. Sales of single family homes increased 6.6 per cent from June 2022 with 322 sold.

"As we consider the first half of the year, we see a return to a more traditional sales trend which follows the seasons," said Victoria Real Estate Board Chair Graden Sol. "During and shortly after the pandemic, we couldn't rely on our usual comparisons to explain the market. This year we have seen a…

746 Views, 0 Comments