Answers Archive - Page 2 of 8

Are investors still purchasing — or has rental regulation talk scared them off?

quester March 24, 2026 No Comments

Investor activity has slowed in Victoria, particularly for condos. Higher carrying costs, uncertainty around the provincial vacancy tax, and tighter rent controls have reduced the appeal of speculative purchases .…

How do I choose the right realtor in a market that actually requires skill now?

quester March 24, 2026 No Comments

Look for a realtor with recent, local, verified sales history. This market punishes overpricing and poor presentation. Ask any realtor you interview: what did you list it for and what…

Should I offer incentives like covering closing costs or a home warranty to attract buyers?

quester March 24, 2026 No Comments

Offering a home warranty is a low-cost way to give buyers peace of mind and reduce the chance of inspection issues derailing a deal. Home warranties typically run $500–$700. Covering…

What does “priced correctly” actually mean when comparables keep shifting?

quester March 24, 2026 No Comments

Priced correctly means your asking price reflects what similar homes in your area sold for in the last 60–90 days — not six months ago, and not what your neighbour…

How does the principal residence exemption affect my tax situation?

quester March 24, 2026 No Comments

If the home you are selling has been your primary residence for every year you have owned it, you generally owe no capital gains tax in Canada. If you rented…

If I sell now and buy something else, will I qualify for a new mortgage at current rates?

quester March 24, 2026 No Comments

Talk to a mortgage broker before you list. Stress test rules still apply in Canada. You qualify at the contract rate plus 2%, or 5.25% — whichever is higher. If…

What are my actual costs to sell — agent fees, legal fees, staging, and capital gains?

quester March 24, 2026 No Comments

Here is a realistic breakdown for Greater Victoria: * **Realtor commissions:** Roughly 3–4% of the sale price, split between buyer and seller agents * **Legal fees:** $1,200–$2,000 for a real…

Should I convert my condo to a rental rather than sell at a loss?

quester March 24, 2026 No Comments

This depends on your carrying costs and your cash flow. If your mortgage, strata fees, property taxes, and insurance add up to more than current rental income, renting is not…

What renovations or repairs will actually increase my sale price vs. just cost me money?

quester March 24, 2026 No Comments

Focus on the basics first. Fix what is broken. Fresh paint in neutral tones adds value. Clean up the yard and improve curb appeal. A professional cleaning matters more than…

Will lower interest rates later in 2026 bring more buyers — making it worth the wait?

quester March 24, 2026 No Comments

Possibly. If the Bank of Canada cuts rates again in mid-2026, more buyers will qualify for mortgages. But more sellers may also enter the market at the same time, absorbing…

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Archives: Answers

Are investors still purchasing — or has rental regulation talk scared them off?

How do I choose the right realtor in a market that actually requires skill now?

Should I offer incentives like covering closing costs or a home warranty to attract buyers?

What does “priced correctly” actually mean when comparables keep shifting?

How does the principal residence exemption affect my tax situation?

If I sell now and buy something else, will I qualify for a new mortgage at current rates?

What are my actual costs to sell — agent fees, legal fees, staging, and capital gains?

Should I convert my condo to a rental rather than sell at a loss?

What renovations or repairs will actually increase my sale price vs. just cost me money?

Will lower interest rates later in 2026 bring more buyers — making it worth the wait?