RSS

Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this House for sale, 638 Monterey Avenue, South Oak Bay, Victoria, BC

This solid, well maintained, 1931 character home typifies the traditional “quality of life” South Oak Bay has to offer. Maintaining refined character details the home boasts thoughtful updates, many new upgrades and offers a versatile floor plan for a growing family in it’s sundrenched rooms. A host of upgrades have been undertaken; perimeter drains, storm and sewer laterals, metal roof, vinyl windows, gas and so much more. Main floor features a quaint entry hall, inviting living room with attractive mantle, wood burning fireplace, piano windows, oak floors, vinyl windows, plantation shutters and a French door for added privacy. Two bright bedrooms each with walk-in closets, blinds, fir floors, four piece bathroom, spacious kitchen with three newer KitchenAid stainless appliances... a super gas oven/range, opens to a delightful sky-lit dining/family room with French doors to access a large west facing deck perfect for entertaining. The spacious upstairs provides an ideal retreat of comfort and cosiness in its master suite abode, complete with its own four piece bathroom and cedar-lined closet. Lower floor contains two bedrooms, generous den/family room, four piece bathroom, large laundry and storage room and is ideal for extended family with the bonus of two exterior door accesses. Enjoy outdoor living and gatherings in this private, easy care and well established garden featuring fine rockery, and a trove of lovely shrubs and trees. The fabulous extra-wide driveway is ideal for young sports enthusiasts or perhaps multiple cars; three garden beds, two garden sheds, one is newly built with electricity and could serve as a small studio with ample storage space. Located on a sought after “beach block”, close to both public/french immersion and private schools, parks, public transport, popular cafe’s, garden centre, Victoria Golf Club and of course the ocean, this turn-key offering is truly a cocoon of comfort for a professional couple or family in one of Canada’s most renowned and finest neighbourhoods. Offered at $1,275,000.

Read

Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this Condo for sale, #104 1440 Beach Drive, South Oak Bay, Victoria, BC

Brenda Russell presents 104-1440 Beach Drive from Realfoto on Vimeo.

Located in one of South Oak Bay’s most prestigious (concrete) buildings, adjacent to the quiet waters of Rattenbury Beach, this elegant, spacious and well-planned one bedroom, two bathroom condo is beautifully renovated and loaded with many fine, high-end appointments that are sure to please the most discerning Buyer. Enjoy water views, the distant glitter of snow-capped mountains and ocean breezes from the entertainment-size patio surrounded by a well established garden. Walk the picturesque waterfront to near-by Oak Bay Marina, Oak Bay Beach Hotel and take advantage of many other world class facilities including the Victoria Golf Club. This luxury scale-down offers an ideal, active lifestyle for the mature professional. Entry hall – Inviting hardwood floors, elegant paneled walls welcome you and add a sense of grandeur and privacy. Living room – Generously proportioned, open plan living room and dining area are centre stage for a stunning electric fireplace and mantle surround providing a backdrop for a work of art and a TV, integral to a relaxing lifestyle with new exquisite lighting that enhances warm ambiance. Berkshire American Walnut hardwood floors throughout. Master suite – Serenity reigns in the master suite (new 49" SONY BRAVIA 4K HDR TV + Insignia wall mount) with adjoining custom cabinets and closets, chicly appointed granite countertop in the ensuite with a Kohler faucet, Pfister toilet, soaker tub with tile surround. Powder room – Custom vanity with granite countertop, walnut hardwood floors and elegant chrome hardware. Kitchen – A haven for any foodie (or gourmet) this Tuscan inspired kitchen features custom floor to ceiling cabinetry that house high-end Fisher-Paykel appliances invisibly and seamlessly providing a streamlined, uncluttered feeling with ample room for food prep. Sleek granite countertops are embellished by glossy tiles, stylish sink and custom hardware. A Crown feature above. All soft close hinges added to doors and anti-slam soft close slides. Under counter puck lights and a lazy Susan corner unit. This suite is truly a rare find and now add underground secure parking, ensuite laundry, a well cared for concrete building run by Gilbraltor Management Ltd. - Strata Manager, Scott Martin.

Read

Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this House for sale, 924 Monterey Avenue, South Oak Bay, Victoria, BC

Brenda Russell presents 924 Monterey Avenue from Realfoto on Vimeo.

Tucked into a private, west facing garden this delightful example of a 1931 Mission Revival bungalow offers a cozy and manageable home for the imaginative Buyer. Incorporating a blend of Arts and Crafts features the spacious living room detail an arched entry, Mission style mantle, wall sconces, tiled hearth fireplace and large picture window capturing the tranquility of a secluded, foliage enveloped courtyard. A large eat-in kitchen with adjoining laundry room opens with French doors into a blissful, sun-filled, easy care garden and patio encompassed with well-established perennials and interesting trees, providing inspiration and Zen-like refuge from the everyday demands of life. One bedroom with fir flooring, walk-in closet, easy access to laundry room and enjoying a garden view. The dining room, once a second bedroom, seats six comfortably, shares same courtyard view and has easy access to kitchen. One bathroom – walk-in style tub with shower wand. Attached garden room, could double as summer studio as well as a separate, heated studio with plenty of cupboards and skylight. An ideal haven for the artistic couple, or single person seeking one level living and a picturesque surround, located a stone’s throw from Demitasse Cafe and Garden Centre a popular meeting place for locals. Close to schools (private and public), parks, ocean and public transport and other world class facilities in one of Canada’s finest neighbourhoods. MISSION REVIVAL ARCHITECTURE The Mission Revival architectural style was a result of a preservation movement that began in the 1880’s and coincided with the American Arts and Crafts Movement. The movement embraced indigenous construction, smooth stucco exteriors, red tile roofs and most notable roof parapets,classic coves, Moorish arches, pergolas, courtyards and patios. California had a profound influence on American life during the first half of the 20th Century and nowhere was it more apparent than in architecture. Gustav Stickley wrote extensively about the preservation of the California missions, introducing the architecture to a National audience in his magazine “The Craftsman.” “When a man’s home is born out of his heart and developed through his labour and perfected through his sense of beauty, it is the very cornerstone of life.” Gustav Stickley

Read

Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this Townhouse for sale, #6 949 Pemberton Road, Rockland, Victoria, BC

Below is a Night Photo of the Front Courtyard

thumb

A hidden gem in the heart of Rockland. The uniqueness of this home is the lovely private front courtyard showing off the interlocking brick and fully fenced rear patio/deck area. South East Exposure. Offer Sun and Shade depending on which courtyard you decide to be in. New custom kitchen cabinets, countertop, flooring and appliances. New electrical panel. New Valor Gas Fireplace with Remote. Oak hardwood floors in the main living areas. Three bedrooms (with closet organizers), three bathrooms, three sliding patio doors with new window coverings. Close accessibility from covered parking to this suite. Each townhome is allocated one covered and one uncovered parking spot. Ready for occupancy now. Two pets allowed, no rentals, no smoking. BBQ allowed.

Below is a Short Video of 6 - 949 Pemberton Road

Brenda Russell presents 6-949 Pemberton Road from Realfoto on Vimeo.

Read

FIABCI Presents - Affordable Housing Summit in Seattle - November 2019
thumb
This week I joined British Columbia and USA colleagues,  the President of the USA Chapter and the World President of the International Real Estate Federation at the Affordable Housing Summit hosted at the University of Washington in Seattle.  A lack of affordable housing is not unique to Seattle, it is an issue being faced by numerious cities around the country and the world.  FIABCI is a partner in the UN Habitat's World Urban Campaign.  The World Urban Campaign is a multifaceted advocacy and partnership platform that strives to bring about positive urban change in numerous areas, including housing affordability solutions.  FIABCI, which holds NGO special consultative status at the United Nations Economic and Social Council, is committed to this important work.
Presenters and panelists were very informative, sharing their experiences in their regions and it is clear that this is a rapid and ongoing economic growth.  What I learned was that every 2% of rent increase puts 4000 more people homeless.  Even the Chief of Police of King County can't even live the community he works in.  Discussions about 'accessory dwelling units' and 'detached dwelling units' calling it residential zoning instead of single family zoning.  In Bellevue, there is no downsizing available.  Try to find new coalitions, old ones just are not working.  
Thank you to some of the following on the panels;
Lynne Robinson - Deputy Mayor, City of Bellevue, Brett Waller - Multi-Family Expert, Director of Government Affairs Washington Multi-Family House Association, Leslie Reed - Condo Conversion Expert, Real Estate Broker Windermere, Jack McCullough - Partner McCullough Hill Leary, PS, Brock Freeman - PropTech and Finance Expert, Managing Partner Kirkland Capital Group, Mamie Marcuss - Director of Programs, Challenge Seattle, Claude DaCorsi - Prefab/Modular Expert, Council member City of Auburn, Troy Thiel - Co-Chair, Community for Affordable Housing SKAR Government Affairs, Sara Monzo - Co-Chair, Community for Affordable Housing Director of Marketing Opes Advisors
Below photo is with my BC/USA colleagues joining the World President of the International Real Estate Federation for dinner the night before the Summit in Seattle, USA. 
thumb
Below Photo Mr. Walid Moussa - World President 2019-2020, FIABCI
thumb
Please stay tuned for more updates and if you would like any real estate help in Victoria, BC please call direct at 250.744.4556.  I look forward to hearing from you.  Thank you. 
Read

Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this Condo for sale, #203 710 Lampson Street, Victoria, BC

thumb

You'll love the space this suite has to offer! A LARGE two bedroom condo located in the 'Oakdene'. White, updated kitchen cabinets with double sinks, garborator, fridge, stove and dishwasher. Two updated bathrooms. Inline dining/living open concept. The master bedroom is approximately 16 x 11 with an ensuite. Lots of natural light PLUS the balcony is approx. 27 x 5! A separate storage locker, parking spot and the laundry facilities are free. The location is really great... walk to amenities with convenient access to bus routes, downtown and the ocean. No rentals or pets. Age 18+. Highrock Park is just around the corner. Quick Possession Available.

Read

Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this Condominium for sale, #1102 250 Douglas Street, James Bay, Victoria, BC

thumb

Bickerton Court has a great reputation.  Built in 1962, a 12 storey steel and concrete building with 96 suites.  An incredible location, located across from Beacon Hill Park with views of Goodacre Lake.  North and East exposures showing off the Olympic Mountains, Mt Baker and the ocean.  Enjoy the HERONS flying to numerous nests right now... from the living room window and balcony.  This BRIGHT, CORNER, SUB PENTHOUSE has had an extensive renovation; granite counters, top Miele appliances, double sink, under counter lighting, pendant and recessed lighting, wood floors throughout.  The bathroom offers heated floors a walk-in glass shower all with granite and tile materials throughout.  A spacious TWO bedroom.  This building offers an indoor heated POOL, billiards, exercise and social room, library, guest suite, workshop, bike storage, common laundry, roof-top lounge with 360 degree views of the city!  Extremely well run and just completing a huge project for new windows and balcony railings contracted with Farmer Construction.  *This is 'no smoking' building.

Enjoy a Short Vimeo Video of 1102 - 250 Douglas Street

Brenda Russell presens 1102-250 Douglas Street from Realfoto on Vimeo.

Read

Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this House for sale, 901 Foul Bay Road, Fairfield East, Victoria, BC

thumb

This impressive, two storey, South Oak Bay border home will surely "tick all the boxes" for your family. A harmonious floor plan blends both formal and informal living delightfully in this four bedroom, three bath, custom home built in 1989 and lovingly maintained and upgraded by the current owner for the past 22 years. Main floor features an airy, gracious living room and in-line dining room anchored by an impressive fireplace, mantle and French doors with patio access. A full eat-in kitchen with bar opens to a spacious family room with ample windows and inviting hearth fireplace. Master suite is nicely secluded for privacy, providing easy access to cozy office/nursery, two piece bath and laundry room. Second floor contains two large bedrooms, a third full bath and is connected by a bright breeze-way. Patio's surround this property inviting family gatherings. Walk to (private and public) St. Michaels Junior, Monterey Middle and Glenlyon Norfolk School, ocean, parks, public transit at your door, Demitasse Cafe and Garden Centre.

Watch this Short Vimeo Video Below of 901 Foul Bay Road

Brenda Russell presents 901 Foul Bay Road from Realfoto on Vimeo.

Read

Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this 1 storey home for sale, 1235 Dominion Road, Victoria West, Victoria, BC

Watch A Short Video of 1235 Dominion Road Below

Brenda Russell presents 1235 Dominion Road from Realfoto on Vimeo.

Welcome to this quaint treasure! From the moment you enter the custom wrought-iron gate, you’ll fall in love with the secluded, serene garden; truly a private retreat from your busy lifestyle. This nostalgic two bedroom, one bathroom cottage-style bungalow features a comfy, casual, open-plan with fir floors and loads of natural light. Efficient, updated, eat-in kitchen, laundry area, ample storage and separate storage-workshop make for easy living and high appeal for the first time home Buyer. Ample parking, close to downtown, parks and schools. Approximately a five minute walk to FRY'S Bakery, Spiral Cafe with an added bonus of the 'Garden Market' located on Catherine Street. For the dog, Banfield Park is an 'off leash' park add to the convenience of this well maintained gem. A home to be proud of!

Read

Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this Townhouse for sale, #16 3633 Cedar Hill Road, Cedar Hill, Victoria, BC

thumb

Meticulous, ONE LEVEL townhome in St Anthony's Lane. This bright end unit offers an abundance of windows with south, east + west exposures! A private sanctuary... lovely patio off the living/dining areas surrounded by a manicured hedge, views of Mt. Tolmie and an awning that opens up for those summer days. This end unit is in a grouping of 'two' like a duplex... 23 units all together in this exceptionally well managed complex. Once inside, the main rooms open up with vaulted ceilings (approx 10-15" high) showing off a wall of windows, gas fireplace and a Mt. Tolmie view. Offering an open kitchen concept includes all appliances (Bosch Dishwasher) and overlooks the 'family room' area. The two bedrooms are nicely separated. The master having a 3 pce ensuite with a walk-in shower. There is a separate laundry room with a freezer. Windows have blinds and screens, and a 'phantom screen' at the front door. Two year old air conditioner. Single garage. Immediate possession. Rarely do units come for sale in this complex. YES, BBQ's and pets allowed (please read Standard bylaws). No rentals.

Watch this short video of 16 3633 Cedar Hill Road, Victoria BC, V8P 3Z3

Read

thumb Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this House for sale, 655 Island Road, South Oak Bay, Victoria, BC

This much admired 1929 Tudor Revival home is set on 3/4 of an acre of transcendental grounds with expansive, mature garden. Truly a utopic and splendid setting for the imaginative Purchaser with a vision to resurrect and reinstate this property to its former grandeur. The moment you step into the formal anteroom with winding staircase and fireplace one harkens back to an age of elegance in South Oak Bay. Enter the grand living room blessed with an abundance of leaded glass windows, prominent fireplace, narrow-planked, inlaid floors and let your imagination soar. Peaked Tudor style leaded doors access the formal dining room and spacious kitchen. Enjoy the character of the period from generously proportioned rooms featuring fine millwork, antique fixtures, hardware which provide a perfect backdrop for antiques and overlook the majestic garden from large picture windows, one could definitely imagine a tennis court on this idyllic setting. Spacious family cedar lined family room could house a billiards table and opens to the outdoors. A charming den outfitted with built-ins provides a cozy retreat and has an adjoining bathroom. Upstairs the Master suite enjoys garden views and has a four piece en-suite. Two children’s bedrooms share another full bath and one has it’s own private deck. Downstairs has a large recreation room with access to an expansive mature garden, a separate suite, laundry, workshop and ample storage. Located close to private and public schools, Windsor Park, Anderson Hill, Victoria's Golf Club, beach and "De'lish"... Oak Bay's answer to fine take-home. Truly one of South Oak Bay’s most sought after locations of prominent homes and tranquil, peaceful properties this stately and splendid residence awaits the discerning Buyer.

HISTORICAL NOTE - A TUDOR REVIVAL Beginning in the mid to late 19th century and often referred to as Mock Tudor this form of architecture began in the U.K. and adapted to other parts of the globe. The style evolved from a combination of earlier forms, Tudor, Elizabethan and Jacobean, the emphasis being on the simpler and more rustic aspects of Tudor architecture. After W.W.I the 20th Century Tudor Revival style became popular in Canada and the U.S.A. in older upscale neighbourhoods with larger lots allowing the house to have individual presence to display “olde worlde” charm.

Watch this Short Video of 655 Island Road - 1929 Tudor Revival Home

Brenda Russell presents 655 Island Road from Realfoto on Vimeo.

Read

Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this Condo for sale, #218 405 Quebec Street, James Bay, Victoria, BC

thumb

Polo Pacific is located one block off Belleville Street and one block from the Parliament Buildings. Take this rare opportunity to live on the edge of Victoria's beautiful inner harbour. This spacious open plan offers one bedroom plus den (could double as dining room) and two baths on the quiet south-east side facing the lovely inner courtyard. A large kitchen with eating area and balcony access (17 x 8 sq.ft.), insuite laundry, master bedroom with a walk-in closet, living room and a corner marbled gas fireplace. This James Bay/Downtown area the perfect Pied-a-terre, rental property or personal residence. Well managed complex. Walk to everything Victoria has to offer including Fisherman's wharf! Immediate occupancy available. Pets allowed.

Brenda Russell presents 218-405 Quebect Street from Realfoto on Vimeo.

Read
MLS® property information is provided under copyright© by the Vancouver Island Real Estate Board and Victoria Real Estate Board. The information is from sources deemed reliable, but should not be relied upon without independent verification.