AllyandDennis.com – ally and dennis

September Monthly newsletter – ally and dennis

Welcoming September: Your Real Estate Autumn Update

As the warmth of summer transitions into the golden hues of autumn, September marks a pivotal moment in the real estate landscape. In this month’s newsletter, we’re excited to bring you a curated blend of market insights, seasonal tips, and property inspiration.

Whether you’re considering a move or simply want to stay informed, our September update is designed to equip you with valuable knowledge and a touch of seasonal inspiration.

Here’s to a September filled with exciting possibilities and a thriving real estate journey!

Stay well,
ally and dennis

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 month. The brisk sales pace leading up to the end of August may very well continue into September.”

See the full report HERE.

As the leaves start to turn, it’s time to get your yard ready for fall. Here are 4 essential tips:

Rake and Remove Leaves: Keep your lawn healthy by raking and removing fallen leaves. This prevents suffocation and promotes grass growth.
Trim and Prune: Give your shrubs and trees a tidy look by trimming and pruning any dead or overgrown branches. This ensures healthy growth come spring.
Lawn Care: Continue mowing your lawn until it stops growing. Apply a fall fertilizer to strengthen the roots and help your lawn survive the winter.
Plant Fall Bulbs: Add a pop of color to your yard next spring by planting fall bulbs like tulips and daffodils now.

A little yard work now sets the stage for a vibrant and healthy landscape next year.

august Monthly newsletter – ally and dennis

AUGUST NEWSLETTER

As the warmth of summer reaches its peak, August presents us with a golden opportunity in the real estate market. With the sun shining bright, potential buyers are eager to find their dream homes, and sellers are poised to showcase their properties’ best features. It’s a season of excitement and possibilities, making it the perfect time to explore the market for your buying or selling needs.

With the real estate landscape brimming with activity, we’re here to guide you through this dynamic period. Whether you’re searching for a cozy family home or aiming to sell for the best return, our expert team is dedicated to ensuring your success in this flourishing market.

Let’s embark on this journey together and make the most of the fantastic opportunities August has in store!

Stay well,
ally and dennis

Victoria Real Estate sales reflect summer trends

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 aligns with the familiar and expected seasonal patterns that have been observed in our market over the years.”

See the full report HERE.

Creating an inviting front porch can significantly enhance your home’s curb appeal and provide a warm welcome to guests. Here are five tips to achieve a charming and inviting front porch:

Cozy Seating Arrangement: Arrange comfortable and inviting seating on your front porch to encourage relaxation and conversation. Consider adding a porch swing, rocking chairs, or a cozy outdoor sofa. Choose weather-resistant cushions and pillows in warm, welcoming colors to create a cozy and inviting ambiance.
Lush Greenery: Incorporate greenery and plants to add life and freshness to your front porch. Place potted plants and hanging baskets with colorful flowers or lush green foliage. Consider using planters with varying heights and sizes to add depth and visual interest. Just ensure you select plants that thrive in the specific lighting conditions of your porch.
Welcoming Doormat: A charming doormat can instantly set the tone for your front porch. Opt for a doormat with a warm greeting, a stylish pattern, or even a custom monogram to add a personalized touch. Make sure it’s durable and easy to clean to withstand the elements.
Adequate Lighting: Proper lighting can transform the ambiance of your front porch, especially during the evenings. Install outdoor wall sconces or pendant lights to provide ample illumination and enhance the porch’s charm. Consider adding string lights or lanterns for a soft, magical glow.
Decorative Accents: Add character and style to your front porch with carefully chosen decorative accents. Hang a beautiful wreath on the door, place decorative lanterns on the steps, or incorporate art pieces or sculptures that complement the porch’s overall theme. Just be mindful not to overcrowd the space; simplicity often has a powerful impact.

By following these tips, you can create an inviting front porch that not only adds to your home’s curb appeal but also becomes a delightful spot to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

July Monthly newsletter – ally and dennis

JULY NEWSLETTER

We hope this email finds you in high spirits as we dive into the sunny days of July!

With the season in full swing, there’s an undeniable sense of excitement in the air, and the real estate market is no exception. Whether you’re considering buying, selling, or simply exploring the market, we’re here to provide guidance, expertise, and a friendly face throughout the process. Your satisfaction and happiness are at the forefront of everything we do, and we’re committed to making your real estate experience a positive and rewarding one.

As we navigate the summer market, keep in mind that the warm weather brings unique opportunities for buyers and sellers alike. If you’re thinking about making a move or have any questions about the current market conditions, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to provide the insights and support you need to make informed decisions.

In the meantime, we encourage you to take some time to savor the simple joys of the season. Whether it’s exploring local attractions, spending quality time with loved ones, or embarking on new adventures, summer is the perfect time to create beautiful memories.

Wishing you a summer filled with laughter, and sunshine!

Stay well,
ally and dennis

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 return to a seasonal pattern, where the sales are slower through the winter and may peak in the spring. This seasonal trend is generally followed by a summer market which remains stable but is not as highly active.”

See the full report HERE.

This Sparkling Watermelon Lime Cooler is the perfect way to beat the summer heat. It’s easy to make and offers a delightful combination of sweet watermelon, tangy lime, and fizzy bubbles. Sip it on a sunny day, relax, and let the refreshing flavors transport you to a state of pure relaxation and enjoyment.

Sparkling Watermelon Lime Cooler

Ingredients:

2 cups seedless watermelon, cubed
Juice of 1 lime
1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup (optional)
1 cup sparkling water
Ice cubes
Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

In a blender, combine the watermelon cubes and lime juice. Blend until smooth and well combined.
Taste the watermelon mixture and add honey or agave syrup if desired, adjusting the sweetness to your preference.
Fill a glass with ice cubes and pour the watermelon mixture over the ice.
Top it off with sparkling water, gently stirring to combine.
Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint leaves, if desired, for an extra burst of freshness.
Serve immediately and enjoy the cool, revitalizing flavors of this refreshing summer drink.

June Monthly newsletter – ally and dennis

JUNE NEWSLETTER

June is a month of endless possibilities for buyers and sellers alike. With longer days and warmer weather, it’s the perfect time to explore new neighborhoods, envision your dream home, or embark on a thrilling property hunt. It’s also a great time to consider selling, when the weather is better and it’s easier to transition homes especially if you have kids. It’s always nice to get the family all settled before September.

As always, we’re here to guide you every step of the way, with local expertise and industry knowledge to ensure your real estate journey is smooth and rewarding.

Wishing you a wonderful summer full of adventures and look forward to helping you make June a month filled with new beginnings, exciting opportunities, and the joy of finding your dream home.

Stay well,
ally and dennis

Spring market begins to grow just in time for summer

June 1, 2023 A total of 775 properties sold in the Victoria Real Estate Board region this May, 1.8 per cent more than the 761 properties sold in May 2022 and a 21.7 per cent increase from April 2023. Sales of condominiums were down 0.8 per cent from May 2022 with 248 units sold. Sales of single family homes increased 8.7 per cent from May 2022 with 399 sold.

“The month of May marks the highest number of sales we’ve seen since April of last year,” said Victoria Real Estate Board Chair Graden Sol. “While we haven’t seen the number of total sales we would expect in a spring market, the month of May marks the fourth consecutive month with sales higher than the month previous. With momentum building, there’s an indication of consumer optimism in the market heading into June. However, if the ongoing lack of homes for sale persists and inventory is not added, we risk a return to an overheated market with pressure on pricing.”
See the full report HERE.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a stylish, functional, and inviting BBQ area that will become a hub for entertaining and enjoying delicious meals with family and friends. Happy grilling!

Designate the Perfect Location: Choose a suitable spot for your BBQ area that is convenient and practical. Consider factors such as proximity to the kitchen, outdoor seating, and adequate space for grilling activities. Ensure there is proper ventilation and clearance around the grill for safety. Additionally, take into account winds and the direction of sunlight to create a comfortable and enjoyable environment.
Create a Functional Layout: Plan your BBQ area layout to optimize functionality. Designate separate zones for food preparation, cooking, and dining. Incorporate ample counter space for prepping ingredients and placing utensils and serving dishes. Install storage solutions, such as cabinets or shelves, to keep grilling essentials and accessories easily accessible. Consider incorporating a sink or water source for convenient clean-up.
Provide Comfortable Seating: Make sure your BBQ area offers comfortable seating for both the griller and guests. Invest in durable outdoor furniture that can withstand various weather conditions. Opt for seating options like patio chairs, benches, or even a picnic table, depending on the available space and your preferred aesthetic. Don’t forget to provide shade options like umbrellas or a pergola to shield your guests from direct sunlight.
Enhance Ambiance and Safety: Elevate the ambiance of your BBQ area with thoughtful additions. Install outdoor lighting to extend the usability of the space into the evening. Consider string lights, lanterns, or pathway lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Incorporate greenery with potted plants, flowers, or even a small garden nearby. Additionally, prioritize safety by having fire extinguishers easily accessible and ensuring proper ventilation around the grilling area.

may 2023 newsletter – ally and dennis

MAY NEWSLETTER

As the spring season blooms, we really start to see the real estate market warm up.

May is a great time to get into the market, and we are confident that we can find the perfect home for you. With interest rates stable and more inventory becoming available, now is the perfect time to start your search. Whether you are a first-time homebuyer or looking to upgrade to a larger home, there are plenty of options available to suit your needs and budget.

It’s also a great time to consider downsizing. It feels great to declutter and clear space in Spring so if you are considering downsizing and accessing some home equity, now is a great time to start that process.

As your trusted REALTORS®, we are committed to helping you navigate the buying and selling process with ease. We have access to the latest market trends and data, and we are always available to answer any questions or concerns you may have. Our goal is to ensure that your real estate experience is as seamless and stress-free as possible.

Thank you for your continued trust and support. We look forward to working with you in the coming months and helping you achieve your real estate goals.

Stay well,
ally and dennis

Not enough growth in inventory numbers means spring market sales slow

May 1, 2023 A total of 637 properties sold in the Victoria Real Estate Board region this April, 22.7 per cent fewer than the 824 properties sold in April 2022 but an 8 per cent increase from March 2023. Sales of condominiums were down 21.8 per cent from April 2022 with 205 units sold. Sales of single family homes decreased 19.4 per cent from April 2022 with 325 sold.

“Sales numbers for this April are more moderate than the higher levels we’ve seen in recent years,” said Victoria Real Estate Board Chair Graden Sol. “We are in a familiar market pattern, where the majority of sales for the year occur in the spring. While we’ve seen an increase in sales over the previous month, we’re not expecting a return to record setting activity. Our inventory levels continue to be very low and new properties are slow to come onto market. More inventory is needed to balance the supply against spring demand. The good news is that prices have stabilized for now. If listings do not pick up over this season, there is a risk that the price stabilization could turn and we could see prices increase.”

See the full report HERE.

Nothing nicer than a well kept beautiful garden – follow the gardening tips below so your garden can be spring ready!

Plant Summer Annuals: May is a great time to plant your summer annuals, such as marigolds, petunias, and impatiens. These plants thrive in the warmer weather and add a burst of color to your garden.
Prune Spring-Blooming Shrubs: If you have any spring-blooming shrubs in your garden, such as azaleas or rhododendrons, now is the time to prune them. This will encourage new growth and ensure that they bloom again next year.
Fertilize Your Lawn: May is a great time to fertilize your lawn, as it will help promote healthy growth and lush green grass. Be sure to use a fertilizer specifically formulated for lawns and follow the instructions carefully.
Keep Your Garden Watered: As the weather starts to warm up, it’s important to keep your garden well-watered. Make sure to water deeply and less frequently, rather than shallowly and frequently, as this will encourage deeper root growth.
Start Your Vegetable Garden: May is the perfect time to start your vegetable garden on Vancouver Island. You can plant a variety of vegetables, such as tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers. Make sure to choose a sunny spot and prepare the soil by adding compost or other organic matter.

April 2023 newsletter – ally & dennis

Spring is in full swing, and the real estate market is heating up!

As we welcome the arrival of spring, it’s an excellent time to take stock of the latest developments in the housing market. Whether you’re thinking of buying or selling a home, there’s much to be aware of in the coming months.

With warmer weather comes a surge in new listings, and we’re already seeing an increase in available homes. This is great news for buyers looking to find their dream home, as there are more options to choose from.

At the same time, with mortgage rates holding, buying a home is an attractive option for many. If you’re considering taking the plunge, now is an excellent time to explore your options and see what’s available in your area.

For homeowners looking to sell, the spring season brings a surge in activity and interest. With high demand and limited inventory, prices remain strong, making this an ideal time to put your home on the market.

As always, we are here to help you navigate the complexities of the housing market and find the best solutions for your needs. Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply looking for property guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Thank you for your continued trust and support.

Stay well,
ally and dennis

Early spring market reflects consumer confidence and growing demand

April 3, 2023 A total of 590 properties sold in the Victoria Real Estate Board region this March, 29.2 percent fewer than the 833 properties sold in March 2022 but a 28.3 percent increase from February 2023. Sales of condominiums were down 29.4 percent from March 2022 with 197 units sold. Sales of single-family homes decreased 31.8 percent from March 2022 with 281 sold.

“We’ve seen our sales numbers this month almost double from January,” said Victoria Real Estate Board Chair Graden Sol. “As we move further into spring, we expect that the return to confidence we’ve seen in the market will continue. What we can’t predict is what the overall impact on pricing will be if we continue to see quite low inventory across our community. Some pockets of our market are busier than others – by working with your REALTOR® you can better understand the market you are in.”

There were 1,970 active listings for sale on the Victoria Real Estate Board Multiple Listing Service® at the end of March 2023, an increase of 8.9 percent compared to the previous month of February and an 85.3 percent increase from the 1,063 active listings for sale at the end of March 2022. “Demand is recovering,” adds Sol. “Compared to the end of 2022, prices have firmed up and interest rates have become normalized. Consumers are more active, and we are seeing quite a few multiple offers on well-priced properties.

Inventory continues to trend lower than long-term averages. As our spring market continues to strengthen, we may start to experience some upward pressure on pricing again. We have been talking about the need for supply to help moderate pricing for a long time. Premier Eby’s announcement this week about the provincial government’s Homes for People action plan reflects an increasing awareness of the importance of supply. We need all levels of government to continue to focus on solving our market housing crunch, so we do not return to the high-pressure markets of the recent past.”

See the full report HERE .

Nothing nicer than a well kept yard. Follow these tips below so your yard can be spring and summer ready!

Clear away debris: Remove any fallen leaves, branches, and other debris from your yard. This will give you a clean slate to work with.
Rake and aerate the soil: Rake the soil to remove any dead grass and to loosen the soil. Aerate the soil to allow air, water, and nutrients to reach the roots of your plants.
Prune trees and shrubs: Trim away any dead or damaged branches from your trees and shrubs. This will help promote new growth and maintain the health of your plants.
Fertilize the soil: Apply a balanced fertilizer to your soil to provide your plants with the nutrients they need to thrive. Make sure to follow the instructions on the fertilizer label.

Plan your garden: Take some time to plan out what you want to plant in your garden. Consider the amount of sunlight your yard gets, the type of soil you have, and the climate in your area. This will help you create a beautiful and healthy garden that you can enjoy all spring and summer long.

March 2023 – monthly stats

The Victoria real estate market is always changing, and it can be hard to keep up with all the latest developments. That’s why we’re here to help you make sense of the latest statistics and trends. Whether you’re a homeowner, a buyer, or a seller, you need to know what’s happening in the market so you can make informed decisions.

What’s been happening in the Victoria real estate market lately? Well, the latest numbers show that sales of single-family homes and condos have decreased compared to March of last year. However, there has been an increase in sales from the previous month of February.

In March 2023, a total of 590 properties were sold in the Victoria Real Estate Board region, which is 29.2% fewer than the 833 properties sold in March 2022. Sales of condominiums were down 29.4% from March 2022, with 197 units sold. Sales of single-family homes decreased 31.8% from March 2022, with 281 sold.

But the good news is that the market is starting to show signs of recovery. Victoria Real Estate Board Chair Graden Sol noted that “We’ve seen our sales numbers this month almost double from January.” As we move further into spring, we expect that the return to confidence we’ve seen in the market will continue.

At the end of March 2023, there were 1,970 active listings for sale on the Victoria Real Estate Board Multiple Listing Service®, an increase of 8.9% compared to the previous month of February and an 85.3% increase from the 1,063 active listings for sale at the end of March 2022. This increase in inventory shows that demand is recovering.

Compared to the end of 2022, prices have firmed up and interest rates have become normalized. Consumers are more active, and we are seeing quite a few multiple offers on well-priced properties. As our spring market continues to strengthen, we may start to experience some upward pressure on pricing again.

February 2023 monthly stats

Good news for homebuyers!

The winter real estate market ended with more stable pricing and improved consumer confidence.

In February, 460 properties were sold in Victoria, a 35.9% decrease from last year but a 65.5% increase from January. Although sales of condos and single-family homes were down compared to last year, there’s still plenty of demand from buyers and inventory levels are increasing. The market is showing positive growth as we head into the traditionally busy springtime for home sales. So, if you’re looking to buy or sell, now could be a great time to do so!

march 2023 newsletter – ally & dennis

MARCH NEWSLETTER

As the month of March begins, we are now in the midst of what is typically one of the busiest times of the year in the real estate market.

With the arrival of spring, many buyers and sellers are now starting to think more seriously about their plans for the coming months. For sellers, this means getting their homes ready for the market, such as cleaning, decluttering, and making any necessary repairs. For buyers, this means preparing financially, as well as getting pre-approved for a mortgage and starting to explore potential neighbourhoods and properties.

As always, we are here to help you navigate the complexities of the real estate market and make informed decisions. Whether you are buying, selling, or simply curious about the market, we are committed to providing you with the highest level of service and support.

Stay well,
ally and dennis

Winter real estate market wraps with improved consumer confidence and more stable pricing

March 1, 2023 A total of 460 properties sold in the Victoria Real Estate Board region this February, 35.9 percent fewer than the 718 properties sold in February 2022 but a 65.5 percent increase from January 2023. Sales of condominiums were down 39.7 percent from February 2022, with 161 units sold. Sales of single-family homes decreased 28.8 percent from February 2022, with 220 sold.

“Last month we talked about the optimism building in the local market that our REALTORS® saw, and now we can see it in the market statistics,” said Victoria Real Estate Board Chair Graden Sol. “We can confirm the return of buyer confidence by the increase in sales through the late winter. The market is seeing some positive headwinds as we move into springtime, which is traditionally the busiest market for home sales. Inventory levels are starting to increase, a welcome trend when compared to the record lows of last year. We’re also seeing a stabilization at some price points and properties that are priced in accordance with current market conditions are selling at a good pace.”

See the full report HERE.

Nothing beats the feeling of accomplishment of getting a head start on your spring cleaning. By following the tips below, you can make the most out of your spring cleaning and ensure your home is ready for the busy real estate season ahead!

Make a plan: Before you begin cleaning, create a checklist of tasks to complete and prioritize them by importance. This will help you stay on track and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Start with decluttering: Get rid of any items that are broken, unused, or no longer needed. Donate, sell, or discard items as necessary.
Clean from top to bottom: Start by dusting and wiping down high surfaces, such as ceilings, light fixtures, and shelves, before moving on to lower surfaces. This will help prevent dust and debris from falling onto areas you have already cleaned.
Tackle one room at a time: Focus on one room at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Start with the room that will have the most impact on your daily life, such as the kitchen or living room.
Don’t forget the details: Clean windows, curtains, and blinds to let in more light. Wash bedding, towels, and other linens to freshen them up. And don’t forget to dust and clean electronics, such as televisions and computer screens.