A Balanced Start to the New Year
By Mark Berg
January 2026 opened with a calmer, more predictable real estate market across Greater Victoria. After years of intense activity during and after the pandemic, we are continuing to see a return to more seasonal, balanced patterns—giving both buyers and sellers clearer expectations.
With increased inventory and slightly lower sales, the market is currently sitting right on the line between balanced and buyer-friendly. This shift is creating new opportunities and encouraging thoughtful, well-prepared decisions.
📊 Market Snapshot: January 2026
Here’s how the market performed last month:
Total Properties Sold: 339
Year-over-Year Change: ↓ 19.7%
Active Listings: 2,624 (↑ 9.6% from last year)
Single-Family Home Sales: 153 (↓ 21.1%)
Condo Sales: 109 (↓ 25.3%)
Townhome Sales: 53 (↑ 1.9%)
While fewer homes sold compared to last year, buyers now have more choice and flexibility—something we haven’t consistently seen in recent years.
💰 Home Prices: Holding Steady
Despite slower sales, prices have remained relatively stable.
MLS® HPI Benchmark Prices (Victoria Core)
Single-Family Homes: $1,265,500
(↓ 2.5% year-over-year, ↑ from December)Condominiums: $537,800
(↓ 1.5% year-over-year)
This reflects a market that is stabilizing rather than declining—an encouraging sign for long-term confidence.
⚖️ Is It a Buyer’s or Seller’s Market?
Victoria’s current sales-to-active listings ratio places the market in the balanced range, meaning there is no strong pressure pushing prices sharply up or down.
A balanced market creates:
✔ Fair negotiations
✔ Less stress
✔ More informed decisions
✔ Better outcomes for everyone
🏡 What This Means for Buyers
If you’re thinking about buying, this is a great time to explore your options.
Today’s buyers benefit from:
More selection
Fewer bidding wars
Better negotiating power
More time for inspections and planning
With economic and interest rate changes still influencing the market, having the right strategy and guidance is essential.
📈 What This Means for Sellers
For sellers, preparation and pricing are more important than ever.
Homes that sell well today are:
Properly priced
Professionally presented
Strategically marketed
Supported by strong local expertise
When done right, your home can still attract excellent buyers and strong offers.
🌍 Looking Ahead: 2026 and Beyond
Interest rates, global economic trends, and consumer confidence will continue to shape our local market. With healthy inventory and steady demand, Victoria is positioned for a stable and sustainable year ahead.
🤝 Final Thoughts from Mark & Dana
January 2026 has set the tone for a more thoughtful, balanced real estate market.
Whether you’re planning to buy, sell, or simply stay informed, this is the time for smart planning—not rushed decisions.
Every neighbourhood and property type has its own story. Understanding yours makes all the difference.
📞 Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re thinking about buying or selling in 2026—or just want honest advice about your options—we’re here to help.
Let’s talk about your goals, your timeline, and your best next move.
📲 Contact Mark & Dana Berg today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
🏡 Local expertise. Personalized service. Real results.
Your home. Your future. Our commitment.
