Inside a 130-Year-Old Heritage Renovation: What It Actually Takes to Restore a Victoria Character Home

 

I recently had someone reach out asking if I could help them as a "heritage home expert" — and it reminded me I've never properly shared one of my favourite projects on this site: a full renovation of a heritage-designated home built in the late 1800s, filmed start to finish.

 

The home had passed through several interior updates over 130 years, but the new owners — both fans of the era — wanted to do something different: work with the Heritage Board and a heritage-experienced contractor to restore the craftsmanship the house was originally built with, rather than strip it away. I followed the project in three parts, from the first Heritage…

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Will AI Change The Real Estate World?

You’ve probably noticed it everywhere...chatbots, instant search results, automated valuations, AI writing and AI images. It’s natural to wonder will AI evenutally replace real estate agents? The short answer is No. It will however change what great Realtors look like and that’s very good news for clients. 

What Ai Is Already Doing in Real Estate

AI has already quietly woven itself into the real estate industry in many practical ways. Online home values now update in real time, listing descriptions can be generated almost instantly and market statistics, trends and price ranges can be pulled together in seconds. Buyer search alerts are largely automated, chatbots can respond to questions around the clock…

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What is Bill 44?

Bill 44 is officially known as the 'Housing Statutes (Residential Development) Amendment Act 2023'. It is one of the most significant housing laws passed in British Columbia in recent years.  Bill 44 was created to help address the province's ongoing housing shortage by changing how residential development works, especially in cities and towns with more than 5000 residents.


What 'Bill 44' Changes

Traditionally, many neighbourhoods in BC were limited to single family homes which by definition are houses where only one household lives on a lot.  Bill 44 rewrites those rules to allow more housing types on those same lots. This includes:

  • Triplexes

  • Fourplexes

  • Laneway homes

  • Other small…

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Should you move now?

Making Your Home Relevant for Today's Realities

Living in and around Victoria gives homeowners and prospective buyers a special vantage point: beautiful geography, strong neighbourhoods, lifestyle amenities. But in times when political winds are shifting, government policies are in flux and macro-conditions feel uncertain, the decision to move or not takes on more nuance. The key isn’t only should you move, but how do you make your home relevant in today’s evolving landscape.

Why the 'political climate' matters 

Politics influences housing, not just interest rates or economic cycles. Politics influences regulation, taxes, foreign buyer controls, infill zoning, supply initiatives etc.

  • The federal government’s…

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Greater Victoria-Market Insights

The Big Picture

After two decades in this business, one truth remains: real estate is about people and timing more than ever. Today’s market has shifted. It’s not the wild seller’s market of recent years, but that doesn’t mean opportunities don’t exist. In fact, the balance has moved toward a more strategic game for both buyers and sellers.

Here’s what the numbers - and my 20+ years of experience - tell us:

  • Supply is increasing. At the end of September 2025, active listings in Greater Victoria reached 3,812, which was up 12% from September 2024. 

  • Sales volume is steady but not frenzied. The market is showing healthy activity without the volatility of previous years. 

  • Price growth is…

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Smart Moving Tips


Moving to or from a new home can be an exciting but also overwhelming experience, especially if you're navigating packing, organizing and settling in all at once.  Whether you're relocating across town or to a new province, these helpful moving tips may make your transition smoother and more stress-free.

Prepare & Plan

Planning and preparing is key to a smooth move. Creating a plan can help you keep on track to that move. Remember to add a little buffer time as packing can take a little longer than expected. Begin organizing your move at least 4–6 weeks in advance. Create a timeline with key dates, including when to start packing, when to book movers and when to update your address. Moving day will come up fast. Having a…

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DeCourcy Island is a charming, off-grid gem tucked into the Gulf Islands, just off the coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia. It’s situated between Gabriola and Valdes Islands, about 20 kilometers from Nanaimo by boat. Life on DeCourcy is quiet, peaceful, and very much in tune with nature, making it a unique retreat for those who seek simplicity and self-sufficiency.

The island is boat-access only, which adds to its secluded charm and requires a bit of planning and adaptability for those living here full-time. Many residents are pioneers of off-grid living, with homes powered by solar panels, generators, or even wind turbines. Water collection, filtration systems, and composting toilets are common as well. People here are often skilled in…

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 Trends & Insights: The Luxury Real Estate Market

The luxury real estate market continues to captivate investors and high net worth individuals with its promise of opulence, exclusivity and high returns. As we navigate through 2024, several trends are emerging that shape the landscape of luxury real estate. Understanding these trends is crucial for anyone looking to invest in or purchase high-end properties.

Rise of Sustainable Luxury

Luxury buyers are increasingly prioritizing sustainability without compromising on elegance. Eco-friendly features are becoming standard in luxury properties:

  • Green Building Materials: The use of sustainable materials such as reclaimed wood, recycled metal and low  VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) paints…

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Plan Your Summer in Victoria

Victoria, BC, is a vibrant city that comes alive in the summer with a myriad of events and activities. From music festivals and outdoor concerts to art exhibitions and the latest culinary delights, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a long time resident or a prospective homebuyer exploring the city, here’s a guide to a few summer events, festivals, activities and the hottest new restaurants in Victoria.

Art & Culture

1. Art Gallery of Greater Victoria Explore contemporary and historical art at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria. Their summer exhibitions often feature local artists, providing a platform for emerging talents. The gallery’s serene gardens are also worth a visit, offering a…

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What is Capital GainS Tax?

Capital gains in Canada refers to the appreciation in value of any asset or investment since its purchase. When you sell the asset such as a property, at a higher price than what you paid for it, the profit made from the sale is considered a capital gain. This applies to various types of properties including cottages, second homes, investment properties or rental units. So as a Realtor, understanding capital gains is crucial for effectively advising clients on their property transactions and investments.

What are the changes coming to the Capital Gains Tax?

  • Budget 2024 announces the government's intention to increase the inclusion rate on capital gains realized annually above $250,000 by individuals and on all…

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