I have sold a property at 411 1620 McKenzie Ave in Saanich on Feb 19, 2021. See details here
"What's the Golden Rule of Real Estate?"...Location, Location, Location...which perfectly describes Tuscany Village. Located within walking distance of UVic, with shopping (grocery, restaurants, cafes, banks, liquor, medical) and public transportation at your doorstep, this quality development is ideal for 1st-time buyers, retirees, and investors. This top floor, 2 bedroom unit features 12' ceilings, open floor plan, hardwood flooring, gourmet kitchen with granite countertops, S/S appliances, and an electric fireplace. Both bedrooms are large and boast spa-like bathrooms with elaborate floor to ceiling tiling, evident of an upscale and unique complex. The south-facing balcony features views of Mt. Tolmie, the Olympic mountains, the gardens, and the gazebo...you can just sit and watch the world go by, or relax in the communal outdoor courtyard. The complex is pet and child friendly, & allows for some rentals. Check out the Virtual Tour & additional photos. Location, location, location!
Unlock the door to the extraordinary! Located just steps from the beach in prestigious South Oak Bay, this modern masterpiece was built in 1935, reimagined by its owners and renovated in 2017 by renowned Point Break Developments, excites the senses and truly is a unique work of art. Choosing natural, organic and sustainable materials, master craftsmen and artisans curated a home of exceptional quality, nourishing the soul and supporting physical and mental well being, in harmony with nature. Offering three luxurious levels of living for the environmentally conscious couple, seeking state of the art amenities, the home is ideal for indoor outdoor living from its sensational gourmet kitchen and expansive open floor plan to the spacious walk-out deck, inviting alfresco fêtes. Among The unusual features is a totem pole and sand blasted glass panels designed by award winning master carver, First Nations artist Klatle-bhi. Every season is honoured in the professionally landscaped garden designed by Demitasse with transcendent, meandering stone walkways and offering a fabulous array of exquisite perennials, shrubs and graceful trees. The property is private, fully fenced and secured by two automated gates. Finished to the same exacting standards, the separate guest house provides a comfortable hermitage to a family member, boasting its own custom three piece bath, deck and pergola laced with red and green grape vines. Bathed in natural light by day and dramatically illuminated by night, noetic purchasers appreciative of the home’s gravitas, are encouraged to view twice in both lights. Situated on the “beach block”, located close to the Victoria Golf Club, Victoria’s finest private and public schools, parks, shopping, surround yourself in the unparalleled beauty and unequalled lifestyle in one of Canada’s finest neighbourhoods.
EXTERIOR ~ Sustainable Architecture
Utilizing authentic and rare materials bespoke of sustainable architecture, the owner’s vision of a resilient home was masterfully executed by Billy Thistle of Point Break Developments, renowned for high-end residential construction of unparalleled quality. Clad in clear, wide- plank cedar siding sourced from Bella Coola, a wide copper belly-band girdles the exterior and anchors the intention to ecologically preserve the home. Topped with a slate roof sourced from Quebec, seamless copper gutters, downspouts, flashing and trim reinforce the resolve to create a home that will viably stand the test of time beyond expectations. The resilient concrete, floating staircase with recessed lighting invites you to ascend and explore. Adding another dimension to the exterior by night the home is effectively illuminated by eye-catching “uplighting” that highlights the fine architectural details.
KLATLE-BHI
Renowned, award winning indigenous artist and carver, Klatle-bhi was commissioned by Petro-Canada to carve a 22 – foot totem pole for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics. The sea-to sky totem pole stood at the Four Host Nations Pavilion at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre during the games. After the Olympics, the totem pole found a permanent home in the atrium of Petro- Canada’s Calgary Headquarters, now Suncor Energy. Klatle-bhi’s artwork can be found in several public museums, including the Museum of Arts and Design in New York City and the Burke Memorial Museum of Natural History in Seattle, Washington. In 2023 Klatle-bhi was recognized by the BC Achievement Foundation with the prestigious Polygon Award for First Nations Art.
Perched at the top of a long driveway with southerly views over the Salish Sea and Olympic Mountains this graceful residence is an appealing blend of neoclassic and contemporary architecture. Ascending from the porte cochere, custom French doors open to a grand foyer creating a dramatic first impression, with expansive oak floors and "trending now" curved walls providing ideal space for fine furniture and art. Anchoring the home in sophisticated elegance, the grand dual staircase showcases a soaring ceiling and features an exquisite historical chandelier and ceiling medallion. Main Level ~ Calming ocean vistas, glorious natural light from an abundance of windows and access to patios optimize connection to nature from all major rooms. A well balanced floor plan offers a spacious separate living room and dining room both with fireplaces and double French doors. The large, bright eat-in kitchen with breakfast bar accesses two patios ideal for dining al fresco. The roomy den serves as a perfect guest suite with adjoining three piece bath, walk-in closet, built-in shelves and private, sunny patio. Laundry, separate storage complete the main floor with oak floors throughout. Upper Level ~ The impressive primary suite provides a private sanctum to unwind and enjoy beautiful views, a fireplace, five piece ensuite, walk-in closet and dressing area with built-in vanity. The second bedroom mirrors the spaciousness of the primary with three closets, fireplace and lovely views. Bedroom three currently serves as an office and holds a wall of closets. A four piece bath easily accommodates both bedrooms. Adding an extraordinary feature to the upper floor is the grand balcony, accessed by double French doors and providing a peaceful, sunny oasis to lounge privately while taking in the splendid view and sea air. Lower Level ~ Accessed from the exterior only is a large exercise/media room which could also be useful as a storage room.
Zela is a quiet charming street. Located between St Patrick and Transit Road. This 1912 home is being sold as is and requires some work. Potential galore... notice the 2020 built home next door for some ideas perhaps. Lot size shows as 53 x 100 from the Municipal Tax Records 5,830 sq.ft. The main level offers two bedrooms and one full bathroom. Fir Floors throughout with laminate in the kitchen and bathroom. The lower level is unfinished with a washer, dryer, gas furnace and laundry sink with access to the rear yard. A wonderful location with South exposure from the backyard along with a mature 'quince' tree which is a treat when making jelly, pies or perhaps cider. Take a stroll to Monterey Middle School, McNeil Bay, Windsor Park (Tennis Courts), Oak Bay Marina and sit down and enjoy a yummy treat at 'Delish Cafe' - all within about 5 minutes. Also, close by is the Oak Bay Beach Hotel and the oceanfront Victoria Golf Course.
EXTERIOR ~ Preserving the unique, period exterior of “Bottle Dash” stucco, this practical application requires little maintenance, is very durable and possesses “retro-cachet.” An arched porch features a solid, panelled front door with a demi-lune window typical of the era. Newer vinyl casement windows and roof, keep the character intact and add to the feeling of permanence. MAIN FLOOR ENTRY HALL AND HALLWAY ~ Illuminated by the front door window and giving access to all major rooms, the space is bespoke of the period and features Oak floors, original doors and hardware, updated lighting, cove ceiling and enclosed stairwells to upper and lower floors. LIVING ROOM ~ Decorated on a neutral theme, the spacious, inviting living room is light and bright with a brick, wood-burning fireplace, mantle, period wall sconce lighting and flanked by “piano” windows and provides the focal point for this warm room. Rich Oak Floors, cove ceiling, French doors to the dining room retains the character. (Brenda in one old picture there are French doors shown – in latest pictures they are gone, but hardware remains – you might want to check to see if they are still lurking around downstairs. Otherwise remove “French doors to the dining room”) DINING ROOM ~ Adjoining the living room and kitchen the dining room offers comfortable, versatile space for dining or homework and boasts Oak floors, cove ceiling and lots of natural light. KITCHEN ~ Original “retro” character, featuring leaded-glass paned windows on upper cabinets, a charming alcove housing double sinks, dishwasher and windows with back garden view. Easy access to the basement through the enclosed stairway. MUDROOM ~ Offering a cozy space to serve as an eating area, the mudroom boasts a wonderful “clothes-line” window, a real, reel clothes-line and sunny garden view. PRIMARY BEDROOM ~ Off the main hall this graceful bedroom features a large vinyl casement window, cove ceiling, original door and hardware. BEDROOM 2 ~ Separated from the primary bedroom by the bathroom this bedroom currently serves as a music room/den and is embellished with rich, Fir floors, original door, glass door knob, hardware and cove ceiling. BATHROOM ~ Nicely updated, four piece bathroom with linen closet, vinyl window and bathtub/shower combination set in its own alcove, is easily accessed by primary and second bedrooms. UPPER FLOOR BEDROOMS 3 AND 4 ~ From the main floor hallway, and enclosed staircase leads to the upper floor landing and two similarly sized, gabled bedrooms with Fir floors under carpet, vinyl casement windows and original doors and hardware. LOWER FLOOR BASEMENT ~ Offering 865 square feet of unfinished space with a 7' ceiling and a large finished bedroom/family room requiring a heat source, bring your ideas to this easily accessed lower floor with separate door, vinyl windows and ready for development. The laundry room is located in the basement and has a handy laundry tub. GARDEN ~ Wonderfully wide, 60 x 110, south-facing, landscaped garden, features loads of on-site parking and provides a private, safe, large back yard for endless play, relaxation and barbecues on the spacious deck.
This jewel of a home was built in 1952 and has been meticulously maintained and tastefully renovated, maintaining original character features. Set on a private, fully fenced, enchanting garden, one is awestruck by the attention to detail in all aspects of the property. Located on a quiet, sought after North Oak Bay Street, close to Willows Beach, Uplands Golf Course, shopping, restaurants, Oak Bay Recreation Centre and transit this home offers an ideal, turn-key lifestyle for the discerning professional couple or retirees seeking an oasis of quality comfort and calm; a glorious retreat that blends harmoniously with nature. Entry Hall ~ Crimson walls and ceiling welcomes you with precious Tiffany style ceiling lights, walnut stained oak floors that provide passages to all major rooms along with a modern 'Convectair' wall heater. Living Room ~ Joining the entry hall by an attractive archway, the living room is spacious, bright and newly decorated on a restful palette, featuring walnut stained oak floors, new gas 'Majestic' fireplace, cove ceilings, recessed lighting and custom window shutters. It is large enough to add a cozy dining table in the corner. Kitchen ~ Enter from the hall, through a French door into the well appointed, custom IKAN kitchen combining function and beauty, choosing classic Hunter Green and white palette and boasting top of the line appliances including: Bloomberg gas oven, Fisher Paykel French door refrigerator, "silent" Bosch dishwasher double Kohler porcelain deep sinks, Richelieu hardware (brushed nickel knobs/classic cup pulls) and a handy pull out for accessing your favourite cooking utensils. Dining Area ~ Adjoining the kitchen and using the same glass and solid combination, the cabinetry thoughtfully flows into the cozy dining area providing perfect storage for dinnerware, objet d'art and six drawers for other finery. The exquisite touch of a Tiffany style pendulum... lights the space and also features custom window shutters that open fully and adjust individually. Primary Bedroom with Ensuite ~ The cheerful 13" x 20" Master suite enjoys views of and access by door to the private garden. Retaining character with cove ceiling and Oak floors, the room features a practical ceiling fan and a 'modern sliding door' clothes closet. An updated three piece bath has tiled shower, undercounter sink with oak cabinet. Main Bathroom ~ Light, bright and sky-lit the four piece bath is decorated in stylish white adding to a spa like feeling. Laundry Room/Mud Room ~ With handy door access to garden and separate garage, the bright laundry room features front loading Maytag washer and dryer, extra cupboards and extra shelving. 'The Secret Garden' ~ Designed and created by the current owner in 2020, alluring flagstone walkways draw the beholder into this idyllic English Country garden with its bountiful bevy of interesting trees, shrubs and glorious perennial blooms thoughtfully nested in raised rock and brick beds. Fully fenced for utter privacy, the garden provides the homeowner with a secluded sanctum of beauty and piece. Discover the charming patio, relax and sip a favourite beverage or perhaps dine al fresco while watching birds and inhaling the wonder of it all. Designed to please the most discerning horticulturist yet relatively easy care with an irrigation system in place, discover the joy of owning a deluxe, perfectly sized Hall's Greenhouse. Charming touches abound in every direction even a friendly cock weathervane atop the garage!
Happy New Year - 2023 and Welcome to Some Federal Tax Changes for Homeowners
Thinking of buying or selling real estate in 2023? There has been a few new Federal tax changes to know about as well as the new residential property rule for individuals who purchase a residential property and sell it withing 12 months of their purchase (not many do but always good to know the changes)... may be subject to the 'Residential Anti-Flipping Rule'. Under the new rules, any profit from the sale of residential real estate (inluding rental property) would be taxed as business income and ineligible for ether the 50 percent capital gains rate or the principal residence exemption. There are some exemptions... a household addition such as birth, adoption or care of an elderly parent also if there is a marriage or common-law partnership breakdown, threat to personal safety, change in employment, insolvency or involuntary disposition, such as from a natural or human-caused disaster.
As of January 1, 2023 the Prohibition on the Purchase of Residential Property by Non-Canadians Act (Foreign Buyers Ban) is in force.
Does not apply to Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
Applies to Non-Canadians directly or indirectly purchasing residential property in Canada for a period of two years.
Applies to residential property, including detached houses or similar buildings of one to three dwelling units, as well as parts of buildings such as semi-detached houses, condominium units, or other similar premises.
Applies to direct or indirect purchases of residential property, including purchases made through corporations, trusts or other legal entities.
Establishes penalties for non-compliance applicable to Non-Canadians, as well as any person or entity knowingly assisting a Non-Canadian in violating the prohibition. Click here for more detail.
I hope this helps a little for now and best to discuss with your accountant and/or lawyer. If you would like any help listing or on the buying side please call Brenda direct 250.744.4556 Wishing all a healthy New Year and a warm personal thank you to Kate Campbell for drawing the ad above... Cheers to all!
Set beautifully back at a pleasing elevation, and built on solid rock, this residence intrigues the eye with a wall of windows and surrounding lush landscape. Owner designed and built in 1954, by a renowned Victoria architect for his family. Lovingly maintained to present day by family, this home truly is a treasure bespoke of mid-century modern design and sensibility. The entry hall draws one into a large, light-filled floor area all on one level. Homes of this vintage and type usually have floor area divided on two floors. The comfortable living room features a mahogany wall and wood burning fireplace. The adjoining dining room boasts built-ins and a huge picture window with garden view. A retro, eat-in kitchen has GSW cabinets, washer/dryer, deep laundry tub and lots of room for your imagination. Dividing the two bedroom wings is a soaring glass atrium ideal for the plant enthusiast and bathing adjoining rooms in natural light. Three bedrooms and a spacious 4 piece bath conjoin the atrium and a separate guest suite perfect for live-in nanny, in-law or could be Master suite, consists of a queen size bedroom, 4 piece bath and family room. Other features include; oak flooring throughout, cork flooring in the guest wing, tile in atrium, concrete reinforced double garage with a separate furnace/storage room. One is awe-struck by the beauty of the well-established garden intentionally designed as a blissful haven beckoning one to linger in peace. A harmonious array of plants including rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, magnolia and corylopsis shrubs, roses trained along the front fence, kiwi, fig and other unique trees provide a perfect oasis of serenity. Plenty of options to fill your dreams in this versatile, bright, quiet sanctuary located in a prestige area of Fairfield East (Gonzales Bay) bordering South Oak Bay. Close to Victoria’s finest private and public schools, parks, beaches and Victoria Golf Club. *Offers are being considered Tuesday April 12th at 1pm*
A romantic covered veranda welcomes you to pure Oak Bay charm. An upgraded 1911 Character home in South Oak Bay. Whether you call it Arts and Crafts, Craftsman or Character this style of architecture is virtually a signature piece for anywhere along the West Coast but especially here in Victoria. Combine that with the convenience of being within walking distance of anything needed including the 'Village' and you have yourself a great home... all yours! Completing the main floor; 3 bedrooms, dining/living area, wainscotting (1911 fireplace not used), updated bathroom, remodelled kitchen with quartz countertops, shaker cabinets with plenty of storage and a suite of stainless appl. Refinished oak floors, 9 ft ceilings, vinyl windows with bottom up/top down blinds throughout. Lower level opens to a workshop area, laundry + abundance of storage. 200 Amp. Exterior upgrades include hardie plank siding (recently painted), replaced fence panels, deck with a sunbrella connected and a brick patio area South exposure!
COUNTRY COTTAGE IN THE CITY This spacious two bedroom home preserves it’s original character and pleasingly combines a blend of contemporary elements and updates, ideal for the professional couple or small family. A welcoming, well appointed, eat-in kitchen opens to a vaulted ceiling family room with large windows and skylights which flood the interior with natural light, lending and airy ambiance on the dreariest of days. Enjoy easy access to laundry area and updated bathroom from the kitchen. Vinyl windows, lighting, laminate floors throughout, stainless steel appliances, attic insulation, smoke detectors, front door, and interior paint are just a few of the many upgrades. The fully fenced private garden is a popular gathering spot and invites alfresco dining and mum can watch the children play in the yard from the kitchen or family room. Located in popular, family friendly Hillside close to bus routes, schools and all major amenities. From the moment you enter the the enclosed porch, you are sure to be delighted with this charming cottage in the city. (a great townhome alternative without being attached to a strata)
