Find a home in Victoria: 3 expert tips for first-time buyers
Tom has worked with dozens of first-time buyers, and they appreciate his matter-of-fact humour, savvy strategies, and efficient approach. After taking Tom’s advice, first-time home buyers looking to find a home in Victoria can relax and enjoy more ease— and ultimately, a successful purchase. Here are three expert tips from Tom for new investors who want to avoid disappointment and maximize buying power.
Tip one: get pre-approved by a bank or mortgage broker
“You can go online and plug a few numbers into a website and think you’re pre-approved and know what you can afford,” Tom says. This, unfortunately, is a hazy mirage, and not reality. “What you have entered online is ‘fluffy data,’ but when you go into a bank and get a real approval, the bank pulls your credit bureau history.”
Even when we think we are being thoroughly transparent, It’s easy to forget all the ways we may be carrying debt and liability, Tom says. “But every nickel you owe is there on your credit bureau. If you had a poor rating in university, it shows up. Unless you’ve had your credit bureau pulled, you can’t really be pre-approved, or know what you can afford.”
Know your “real number” before you go shopping to find a home in Victoria
Tom often connects his first-time buyers to a trusted mortgage broker who can provide an accurate pre-approval number. Otherwise, many first-time buyers with a “fluffy” online pre-approval start looking at properties they think they can afford. Then, when they find something they love, they get excited. Sometimes, they may go all the way to an accepted offer before the bank tells them they don’t qualify for the financing. “This wastes everybody’s time, and is embarrassing and disappointing,” says Tom.
“You need to have the real number when you’re shopping, and the only way to get that number is with a mortgage broker or a bank. These professionals go all the way, they do the deep dive, then apply the mortgage ‘stress test.’ If you don’t do this first, you’ll constantly frustrate yourself, and fixate on the home you wanted but can’t afford. When you focus on what you can afford, then you’ll succeed.”
Adjust your expectations to find a home in Victoria
Any first-time buyer in Victoria is probably experiencing sticker shock. There may be a sobering realization that the Victoria home you’ve been saving for might not be possible as a first purchase. “You may have thought you were saving for a house,” Tom says, “but now it’ might have to be a condo or townhouse.”
Tom says savvy investors understand that buying well, at any level, is a wise move. “And that first home just has to be functional, and sellable. It doesn’t have to be your last place.” Then, when you go to sell and move up, “you’ll need the ‘wow’ factor,” Tom advises. “Whatever size first home you buy, make sure you are saying ‘wow’ more than ‘ew.’” And if you can’t find even a condo in Victoria you can afford? “You can get into a mobile home situation as a first purchase, spend $250,000, and at least you are in the market. You’ll always be able to sell a manufactured home.”
Tip two: aim high in buyer’s market; aim low in seller’s market
When it’s a buyer’s market, prices are falling, and properties are taking longer to sell. Tom advises his first-time buyers to shop within their pre-approved budget, but look for signs that a property is lingering on the market. “You can shop 10% above your ceiling,” he explains. In a seller’s market, however, “you need to be careful, and aim 10% below your absolute ceiling.” For the summer of 2022, Tom says indications are that Victoria is shifting to a buyer’s market.
One way to qualify for a larger home is to go a little bit farther “out” from the downtown core of Victoria. “Your money always goes farther in the western communities,” Tom advises. Heading out to look in Langford or Colwood can bring the purchase price down considerably. “Sooke is even less expensive— but it’s a more significant commute.” All these factors are important to consider, Tom says. Sometimes, accepting a longer commute could be the wisest choice. Other times, a smaller home right in Victoria is your best bet.
Tip three: don’t get emotionally attached
First-time home buyers are often stressed and emotional when they think they’ve found the “perfect place” — and then don’t get it. Tom helps everyone stay grounded, and keep looking ahead. “It’s very rare that a property for first-time buyers is truly ‘one of a kind,’” Tom counsels. “I tell buyers to just be patient, and know that if you miss something, something just like it or very similar is not far away.”
It sounds a little like dating advice, Tom laughs. But he warns his clients not to become too emotionally attached to any particular property. “Buying a house, especially for first-time buyers, is like getting into a relationship. You are sometimes blind to the obvious pitfalls because you’re so attached to the rosy outcome. My job is to take those rose-coloured glasses off, and keep you grounded.”
He offers the same advice about dips in property values, too. “Don’t get into a situation where you’re looking at your home as anything but a long-term investment,” he says. “You won’t lose money if you can ride it out over a couple of years.”
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176 Regina Ave in Saanich: SW Tillicum Single Family Residence for sale (Saanich West) : MLS®# 1028796
176 Regina Ave Saanich V8Z 1J3 
$829,000Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1028796
- Bedrooms:
- 3
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,501 sq. ft.
This charming three bedroom home boasts a sun porch leading to a bright, cheerful living room with an electric fireplace and hardwood floors. The cheerful kitchen features an eating area, while the master bedroom is conveniently located on the main floor. Upstairs you will find two additional bedrooms. The fully fenced backyard is perfect for families or pets, and the neighbourhood is close to a school and shopping mall. Contact Maria today to schedule a viewing! More detailsListed by Sutton Group-West Coast Realty (Dunc)- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
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602/601B 366 Clubhouse Dr in Courtenay: CV Crown Isle Condo for sale (Comox Valley) : MLS®# 1028575
602/601B 366 Clubhouse Dr Courtenay V9N 9G3
$118,500Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1028575
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,470 sq. ft.
Here is your opportunity to own a quarter share Villa in the sought-after Crown Isle Resort & Golf Community. This ground-floor 1470 sq ft unit is nestled among mature fir trees along the first fairway, offering beautiful tee-to-green golf course views in a peaceful setting. The main unit features a king bedroom, full kitchen, comfortable living area with double-sided fireplace, and private patio. It also includes a lock-off second suite with two queen beds, kitchenette, and its own patio, allowing you to use both spaces together or separately. Stay in one side and place the other in the rental program for potential income, or enjoy both with family and guests. Quarter ownership provides one week of use each month, totaling 13 weeks per year. Just a short walk to the Crown Isle clubhouse with dining, fitness centre, and practice facilities. Conveniently located close to Mount Washington skiing, mountain biking, and only five minutes from the Comox Airport. More detailsListed by Royal LePage-Comox Valley (CV)- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
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297 Gill Rd in Ladysmith: Du Ladysmith Single Family Residence for sale (Duncan) : MLS®# 1029000
297 Gill Rd Ladysmith V9G 1X9
$1,760,000Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1029000
- Bedrooms:
- 4
- Bathrooms:
- 4
- Floor Area:
- 3,587 sq. ft.
Location, Location, Location! Discover this beautifully updated waterfront character home perched on Ladysmith Harbor, offering breathtaking views of Coastal Mountains, Mt. Baker and serine harbor views. Enjoy your own beach just steps from your home. This rare gem blends timeless charm with modern comfort in an unbeatable location. Featuring 4 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms. The primary bedroom with forever ending ocean views also offers walk in closet , soaker tub, and deluxe tiled shower. The open -concept living area flows seamlessly to outdoor decks and several sitting areas around the property – perfect for soaking in the views. The detached 3 plus car garage provide exceptional space for hobbies, storage or future projects. RV parking. Full city services. Walkable location just minutes from shopping and recreation. This property offers the best of coastal living. Don’t miss this one-of-a kind opportunity to own a piece of Vancouver Island Paradise. More detailsListed by Royal LePage Nanaimo Realty LD- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
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886 Lodi Ave in Saanich: SW Glanford Single Family Residence for sale (Saanich West) : MLS®# 1028970
886 Lodi Ave Saanich V8Z 6R2
$1,298,800Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1028970
- Bedrooms:
- 5
- Bathrooms:
- 3
- Floor Area:
- 2,591 sq. ft.
UNDER ASSESSED VALUE! Welcome to this large, bright family home in a prime central location. Thoughtfully updated throughout over the years, the home features quality finishes, built-in elements, and stainless steel appliances that create a modern and functional living space. Offering exceptional flexibility, the property includes two full kitchens, five spacious bedrooms, and three separate 4-piece bathrooms, ideal for extended families, multi-generational living, or potential income opportunities. Set on a generous lot, the fully fenced yard provides privacy and space to enjoy the outdoors, complete with mature fruit trees perfect for relaxing or entertaining on your large patio. Located in a safe, family-friendly neighbourhood close to schools, shopping, parks, and everyday amenities, this is a wonderful opportunity to own a move-in-ready home combining space, comfort, and convenience. More detailsListed by RE/MAX Camosun- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
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114 409 Swift St in Victoria: Vi Downtown Condo for sale : MLS®# 1028979
114 409 Swift St Victoria V8W 1S2
$549,900Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1028979
- Bedrooms:
- 1
- Bathrooms:
- 1
- Floor Area:
- 737 sq. ft.
Discover downtown sophistication in the largest unit at Mermaid Wharf! This renovated 1-bedroom + den condo blends industrial charm with modern elegance, featuring stainless steel appliances, a stylish barn door, and fresh paint throughout. Soaring ceilings and oversized, south-facing windows fill the space with natural light, while a cozy gas fireplace adds warmth and character. The versatile den with a Murphy bed is perfect for guests or a home office. Step outside to your private ground-floor patio with direct access to the David Foster Harbour Pathway, offering seamless waterfront access to downtown. Enjoy shared access to the rooftop deck with BBQs and stunning harbour views, ideal for entertaining and relaxing. Just steps from the ocean, cafés, and boutique shopping, this home delivers the best of downtown living. More detailsListed by RE/MAX Camosun- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
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6629 Tamany Dr in Central Saanich: CS Tanner Single Family Residence for sale : MLS®# 1027175
6629 Tamany Dr Central Saanich V8Z 6Y9
$1,299,000Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1027175
- Bedrooms:
- 5
- Bathrooms:
- 3
- Floor Area:
- 3,809 sq. ft.
TANNER RIDGE HOME WITH A SUITE & MAIN FLOOR PRIMARY BEDROOM. This amazing home overlooks the valley with mountain views & peak-a-boo glimpses of the ocean. With over 3700 sq feet this 5 bed, 3 bath home offers much space for a growing family. The flexible floor plan allows access for the whole home or section off the fully contained 2 bedroom suite each with their own laundry. Generous room sizes & large picture windows give this home an open & airy feeling. Open concept kitchen with bar seating, granite counters, updated appliances, convection stove, dual fridges, hot water dispenser & easy access to the side deck that leads to the yard. Comfortable layout with a spacious living room, separate dining & 2 addt’l beds & 3 pc main bath. The main floor primary bedroom features double closets & 3 pce ensuite. The lower suite offers 2 bedrooms plus a den, an oversized living room, kitchen with separate eating area, and plenty of storage options. The double car garage has new epoxy floors. More detailsListed by RE/MAX Camosun- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
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353 Aitken St in Comox: CV Comox (Town of) Single Family Residence for sale (Comox Valley) : MLS®# 1028879
353 Aitken St Comox V9M 1K8
$819,900Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1028879
- Bedrooms:
- 4
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 2,285 sq. ft.
Nestled on a neighbourly street only a short walk to Aspen Park Elementary and close to the French immersion Ecole Robb road Elementary Schools, this 1966 two-storey split-entry home delivers 2,411 sq ft of solid, no-nonsense space-1,231 up, 1,180 down.Upstairs: three bedrooms, one full bath. Main level: big living room with ocean glimpses toward Comox Bay, plus the kitchen window frames a stunning backdrop of the mountains and an ocean view-great for coffee or cooking Downstairs: cozy family room, separate entrance (suite potential!), one full bath, and a fourth bedroom-perfect for guests, office, or family. Roof’s triple-layer shake, hand-done by the original roofer owner-still tough as nails. Honest, bright, nice views, room to grow. Not flashy-just real. Come see why it feels like home. More detailsListed by REMAX Ocean Pacific (CX)- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
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2877 Cecelia St in Chemainus: Du Chemainus Single Family Residence for sale (Duncan) : MLS®# 1028303
2877 Cecelia St Chemainus V0R 1K3
$995,000Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1028303
- Bedrooms:
- 5
- Bathrooms:
- 3
- Floor Area:
- 2,639 sq. ft.
Incredible value in the heart of Chemainus! COMPLETELY REMODELLED, Large yet quaint main level entry home with separate, lower walk-out suite and a massive detached 30’11×22’10 garage with 10ft doors, and lots of windows. The main flooor of this home offers great opportunity for a family with ample living space, vinyl floors, open plan kitchen & dining, laundry, 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, fireplace and expansive rear sunny patio. The kitchen is totally remodelled with beautiful grey cabintry and gorgeous granite counter-tops. The ensuite is truly a retreat to behold. The lower level offers an oversized bedroom, large living room, bathroom, laundry, kitchen and storage. The back yard offers room for all your toys and RV parking, The MASSIVE detached shop can accommodate a woodworking shop or a mechanic’s dream scenario. The home is positioned on a quiet culdesac within a short walk to shopping, dining and desirable Mount Brenton golf course. More detailsListed by 2% Realty Pacific Coast Inc.- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
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301 2050 White Birch Rd in Sidney: Si Sidney North-East Condo for sale : MLS®# 1028977
301 2050 White Birch Rd Sidney V8L 2R1
$359,900Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1028977
- Bedrooms:
- 1
- Bathrooms:
- 1
- Floor Area:
- 716 sq. ft.
Top-floor, South Facing, Unit 301 offers over 700 sq ft of bright, comfortable living in Marina Park. This freshly painted one-bedroom, one-bathroom condo is a great opportunity for buyers looking to enter the Sidney market. The suite features a large covered deck and functional layout, with heat and hot water included in the strata fee. The well-maintained building offers common laundry, a games room, workshop, secure bike storage, EV chargers, surface parking, and beautifully landscaped grounds with a BBQ area. Located just steps from Lillian Hoffer Park and only moments from the shops, cafés, and restaurants of downtown Sidney. Close to the airport, ferries, and transit. Rentals allowed. No pets. More detailsListed by Pemberton Holmes Ltd. – Oak Bay- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
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104 1687 Poplar Ave in Saanich: SE Mt Tolmie Condo for sale (Saanich East) : MLS®# 1028982
104 1687 Poplar Ave Saanich V8P 4K5
$649,000Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1028982
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,120 sq. ft.
Welcome to Unit 104, 1687 Poplar St. Minutes to UVIC Awesome location. Large 1120 sq ft, two-bedroom, two-bath, ground level, end unit corner unit,,Lives like a Townhome w’ separate rear entry.,Quiet home, "The Poplar", in walk-friendly neighbourhood minutes to shopping and conveniences.. Condo offers elegant contemporary living w/ oak hardwood floors and features tons of South light w/ natural gas fireplace in the living room, kitchen overlooking the picturesque gardens and oversized master bedroom with full en-suite and closet. Enjoy the sun on your large outside south facing patio, as well as underground-secured parking and a separate storage locker. This condo is located well away from the hustle and bustle, and your cat and electric BBQ is welcome here. More detailsListed by RE/MAX Camosun- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
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106 Halibut Hill Rd in Mudge Island: Isl Mudge Island Land for sale (Islands) : MLS®# 1028943
106 Halibut Hill Rd Mudge Island V0R 1X6
$299,000Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1028943
Discover an exceptional waterfront lot with breathtaking ocean views on picturesque Mudge Island. This rare opportunity offers a spacious, high-bank property complete with private beach access, making it the perfect setting to build your dream home or a peaceful cottage retreat. Enjoy the beauty of the Gulf Islands with sweeping vistas and abundant southern exposure that fills the property with sunlight. Mudge Island captures the tranquility and charm of the smaller Gulf Islands while still providing modern conveniences like electricity, cable, and high-speed internet. Although the island is accessible only by water, it is just a short kayak or water taxi ride across a narrow channel from Vancouver Island, offering both seclusion and convenience. With spectacular oceanfront views, southwest exposure, this property is a truly special find. More detailsListed by Royal LePage Nanaimo Realty (NanIsHwyN)- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
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211 2779 Stautw Rd in Central Saanich: CS Saanichton Manufactured Home for sale : MLS®# 1028876
211 2779 Stautw Rd Central Saanich V8M 2C8
$369,000Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- 1028876
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,415 sq. ft.
Welcome home to this spacious 2-bedroom, 2-bath manufactured home, offering over 1,400 sq ft of comfortable, one-level living. Perfectly situated in one of the area’s most desirable parks, this property combines space, privacy, and exceptional value with low pad fees. Step inside to a bright, inviting layout featuring a generous living room, separate dining area, and a large kitchen with ample storage—ideal for everyday living and entertaining. The primary bedroom includes its own ensuite, while the second bedroom is perfect for guests, hobbies, or a home office. Outside, you’ll love the huge private backyard, a rare find and an excellent space for gardening, relaxing, or hosting gatherings. A powered shed adds even more functionality—great for a workshop, storage, or creative space. This is an outstanding opportunity to enjoy quiet, friendly park living without sacrificing space or comfort. New Paint and New Floors throughout! More detailsListed by Royal LePage Coast Capital – Westshore- TOM HOPPER
- RE/MAX Generation – Neal Estate Group
- 1 (250) 8939799
- Contact by Email
