Victoria BC Community Blog

Co-Ownership: Home Buying With A Friend Tag: real estate tips

Posted by Niels Madsen on July 13, 2026

Estimated Read Time: 6 minutes

In today's competitive west coast real estate market, many solo young adults and students are having difficulty getting the funds for a down payment on a home, forcing them to rent or otherwise settle for less. Sometimes parents won't or can't assist their children with co-signs or payments. Sometimes those in casual relationships don't like the idea of sharing property value with someone they might not be together with in a few years.

Whatever the reason, more and more people are considering co-buying with good friends or family members. Unlike co-operatives, where buyers purchase shares in a corporation that owns the building, co-ownership lets buyers purchase a percentage of the property title and become "owners in common" of the same home.

Read More →

Suite-ing A Home In Victoria Tag: real estate tips

Posted by Niels Madsen on June 1, 2026

Estimated Read Time: 11 minutes

Often known as "in-law suites" or "granny suites", secondary suites have long been used to house family members in an independent space that's still close at hand. A simple one-bedroom suite can be comfortable and private accommodation for teenagers, university students, or seniors. Aside from benefiting family, secondary suites can provide additional income in the form of rentals, or be converted into a home office or business.

So how do you know if adding a suite to your property is the right move, and how do you get started?

Read More →

Renting To Your Kids Tag: real estate tips

Posted by Niels Madsen on May 1, 2026

Estimated Read Time: 5 minutes

I previously posted an entry addressing the benefits and complications of co-owning a home with a friend. While most of those tips also apply to family members entering co-ownership, they don't address the particular nuances of renting to family, especially when sharing the same home.

Renting to relatives can be a great way to help provide for them if you have the space and the funds. You know them personally and have an idea of how they'll take care of your property. But there are rules to be aware of when you take on the role of landlord, even if it's to your kids or a parent.

Read More →

Home Staging 101: Preparing Your Property for Sale Tag: real estate tips

Posted by Niels Madsen on November 22, 2024

Estimated Read Time: 4 minutes

Property staging can encompass a wide range of changes, from smaller cosmetic fixes to larger renovations, but the goal is always the same: to make sure a property is as visually appealing and inviting to prospective buyers as possible, whether they are looking at it online or in person. It’s a common practice, but not one that is always utilized to its full potential, so here are some things to keep in mind.

Read More →

Update on Market Conditions in Greater Victoria Tag: real estate tips

Posted by Niels Madsen on September 15, 2024

Estimated Read Time: 4 minutes

Understanding the real estate market in Greater Victoria is key for anyone considering buying or selling a property. Our region's housing market is influenced by several factors, such as seasonality, interest rates, and economic trends, which can impact both home prices and the speed of sales. As with any market, conditions can shift rapidly, and staying informed is essential. Here are a few updates on how the market is performing.

Read More →

Navigating the Inspection Process: What to Expect Tag: real estate tips

Posted by Niels Madsen on August 20, 2024

Estimated Read Time: 4 minutes

Buying a home is one of the most significant investments you'll ever make, and ensuring it's the right decision involves thorough due diligence. The home inspection process is a key step in this journey, offering you a detailed assessment of the property's condition. This evaluation helps uncover any potential issues or hidden defects, providing you with valuable insights that can influence your decision. Here is what you can expect and things to think about for your home inspection.

Read More →

The Pros and Cons of Fixer-Upper Homes: Is It Worth It? Tag: real estate tips

Posted by Niels Madsen on July 20, 2024

Estimated Read Time: 4 minutes

Most people have heard the term ‘fixer upper’, and in all likelihood have encountered examples on tv or social media. But if it's something you’re considering for your property journey, or a possibility for the future, then you need to know what the reality of taking a property from undesirable to a dream home will look like. To help you, here are some of the pros and cons of taking on a fixer upper property, and why and when it would be a worthwhile choice for you to make.

Read More →

Breaking Down Closing Costs: What Every Homebuyer Should Know Tag: real estate tips

Posted by Niels Madsen on April 15, 2024

Estimated Read Time: 4 minutes

Purchasing a house is the most significant purchase anyone will make, both in terms of outlay and what it means for your future, which makes getting the budget exactly right vitally important to ensure you get the right value, without overspending or failing to make the most of the budget.

When it comes to this spending, it’s important to remember that it isn’t just the price of the property itself you will be paying - you will also have to factor in a range of other closing costs. Here’s our essential rundown of what every prospective homebuyer needs to know when it comes to closing costs and other related expenses.

Read More →

Home Improvement Projects to Increase Property Value Tag: real estate tips

Posted by Niels Madsen on March 13, 2024

Estimated Read Time: 4 minutes

When it comes to adding value to your home and making it a more appealing proposition for potential buyers, you don’t have to break the bank or bring in a professional to do major renovations. There are a variety of DIY projects you can undertake that will help add value to your home, and here are some of our favourites.

Read More →

8 Key Questions to Ask Before Hiring a REALTOR® Tag: real estate tips

Posted by Niels Madsen on January 23, 2024

Estimated Read Time: 4 minutes

Whether you’re buying or selling, getting the right end result for your property needs is one of the most important life decisions someone can make. This makes it all the more vital that you go into the process with an understanding of exactly what you should be looking for in a REALTOR®, as they will be the key person to guide and advise you. Here are 8 key questions you should be asking any prospective REALTOR® before you begin the journey.

Read More →