Victoria BC Community Blog

2026 Halloween Events in Victoria

Posted by Niels Madsen on October 13, 2026

Estimated Read Time: 5 minutes

Halloween is always a big event in Victoria with plenty of ways to celebrate the season of the pumpkin, offering a range of activities for everyone. Whether you're a fan of haunted history, family-friendly events, or just love getting into the Halloween spirit, this city has something for everyone. Here are a few fun and frightful things to do in Victoria during Spooky Season:

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How To Recycle Hard-To-Recycle Items

Posted by Niels Madsen on September 14, 2026

Estimated Read Time: 3 minutes

You might be surprised at how many items can go into your daily recycling. Plastic bags? Foam egg cartons? Aluminum aerosol containers, Pringles cans, plastic garden pots? All recyclable. But what about the bigger, awkward, and more dangerous items? Get a quick run-down on where to recycle your strange items on the island, from power tools to thermostats.

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Blackberry Bounty In Victoria BC

Posted by Niels Madsen on August 10, 2026

Estimated Read Time: 6 minutes

Berries have been ripening up and down Vancouver Island — including a local favourite, the wild blackberry. You might have noticed a few growing in your own neighbourhood as August set in. Now they're ready for harvest.

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Co-Ownership: Home Buying With A Friend

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.

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Suite-ing A Home In Victoria

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?

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Renting To Your Kids

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.

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Choosing A Victoria Neighbourhood

Posted by Niels Madsen on April 1, 2026

Estimated Read Time: 19 minutes

The capital of BC and home of Vancouver Island's largest municipality, the Greater Victoria Area is home to historical properties and a vast array of homes and neighbourhoods ready to charm new residents. With vibrant gardens, detailed history, and rich culture, Victoria is a city worth living in.

Today we'll be taking a look at the various districts, municipalities, and neighbourhoods to be found in Victoria BC, and the different reasons why you might want to call each one home.

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Your BC Property Assessment Explained: What Is It, What Does It Mean, and What Are The Tax Implications

Posted by Niels Madsen on January 1, 2026

Estimated Read Time: 3 minutes

As it’s January, it’s once again time for property owners in BC to receive their annual property assessment from BC Assessment. Even if you aren’t planning on buying or selling immediately these are important documents. And you should take the time to understand what they mean for you. Here’s our primer on what you need to know about your BC Assessment. 

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Christmas Events in Victoria 2024

Posted by Niels Madsen on December 5, 2024

Estimated Read Time: 14 minutes

Victoria is a magical and beautiful place to spend the holidays, with plenty of lights and events throughout the city. Here are just some of the events taking place for Christmas, from performances to photos with Santa to markets! And don't forget to check out local coffee shops and restaurants as well for their Christmas specials.

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Home Staging 101: Preparing Your Property for Sale

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.

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