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Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this House for sale, 2000 Lansdowne Road, Oak Bay, Victoria, BC

Drive under a ten-foot high carport and access the kitchen with your groceries... so easy. The kitchen is spacious enough for an eating area. It is rare to find over 1400 square feet of beautiful living space on the main floor! This solid 50's home offers entertainment size living and dining areas with luxurious oak hardwood floors and large thermal windows with glimpses of the Olympic Mountains on clear days – and the lights of Trial Island’s lighthouse on any night. The living room has the added feature of a wood-burning fireplace. This bright and peacefully quiet home has three bedrooms on the main floor and opens in the rear onto a raised wooden deck overlooking the large lawn and garden where you may spend afternoons and enjoy the sun in a private oasis. Built in 1956 on a corner lot, measuring 75 x 150 feet (11,250 square feet), the property has a substantial front garden and a very large back lawn and garden with a sprinkler system, fountain and garden shed. In all, this 2830 square-foot house has four bedrooms and two baths on two levels. The lower level has a separate entrance, a large bedroom and bathroom with shower, and a very large rec room. It also has a separate narrow 100-foot-long room that is a combined workshop, storage and laundry room. The building is also provided with an immensely efficient heat pump system that keeps the house warm in winter and cool in summer and almost eliminates oil bills. Its underground oil tank was removed in 2016 in accordance with government regulations. The lower level is perfect for your in-laws, teenager or perhaps being located right across the street from Camosun College... a student may be the perfect solution! Combine that with the convenience of being within walking distance of anything from the 'Charelli's Deli' to the vast selection of shops at the Hillside Mall, and you have yourself a great home. The Uplands Golf Club is one block away; and there are parks like Mount Tolmie, Carnarvon and Uplands Park easily reached on foot. This Lansdowne-Foul Bay crossroad location provides one of the best and most frequent bus services in Victoria. A four-minute bus ride takes you to the University in one direction, and a five-minutes in the other takes you to Oak Bay Village. University to Downtown Victoria Routes 7 and 4 have a frequency of 10 to 15 minutes on weekdays; while the Interurban 21 and the Hillside Mall Routes and give easy access to most parts of Victoria and the Saanich Peninsula. A five minute drive will get you to Willows Beach, Cadboro Bay Beach, Oak Bay Marina, Municiple Rec Centre, Royal Victoria Yacht Club, and Royal Jubilee Hospital. Downtown Victoria or Mayfair Shopping Mall are an easy 15 minutes away by bus or car. For thirty years, 2000 Lansdowne was the home of Joe Easingwood, the celebrated “Voice of Victoria” on C-FAX Radio; while over the last two decades, its occupant was CFB Esquimalt Fire Chief Alan Day who at the age of 92 officially became Canada’s strongest nonagenarian by setting of national and world powerlifting records in the over 90-year-old category. For anyone thinking of long term improvements on this property, one might wish to take advantage of this house’s hilltop location and consider the addition a large room or rooms on the roof level. It is something neighboring house owners have profited from. This would afford the owner with a spectacular panoramic view of the Olympic Mountains, the ships passing through the Salish Straits and an overview of all of Oak Bay and the entire Victoria city shoreline. Combined with an easily converted independent basement flat with its separate entrance would vastly increase the value of this property.

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Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this House for sale, 988 Monterey Avenue, South Oak Bay, Victoria, BC

Located in South Oak Bay, this spacious well built split level home provides great accommodation for a growing or extended family in it's well proportioned rooms on two levels. The ground level has a separate entrance and is an added bonus - bright and full height with a development potential. The carport is approximately 19x13. Three bedrooms and two bathrooms upstairs. Boasting gorgeous solid oak flooring throughout main floor, two cozy wood burning fireplaces and an eat-in kitchen are among some of this home's fine features. The generous sized, west facing sundeck (approximately 23x14) is ideal for "Al Fresco" dining, relaxing or safe haven for a toddler. Conveniently located - walk to private and public schools, Windsor Park and Oak Bay Village. University to Downtown bus routes are just minutes away. A four-minute ride to the Victoria Golf Club and McNeil Bay is three blocks away.

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Swiftsure International Yacht Race 2017

What a gorgeous day to watch the yachts set sail at the 74th annual event that runs all weekend finishing Monday May 29th at 6 am.  This year was a little different than past years...Four Long Courses, a tactical race testing knowledge, sharp skill, and endurance. These racing yachts are also very technical.  Approxiamtely two hundred yachts registered for one of the following races: Swiftsure Inshore Classic, The Hein Bank Race, The Cape Flattery Race and The Juan de Fuca Race. Congratulations to ANOMALY - skipper Bill Elmer for finishing first in The Swiftsure Inshore Classic. Click Here to watch this race live right now with the 2017 Race Tracker which uses GPS transponders to show you real time positions of the participants during the Four Long Course races. A Big thank you to all of the volunteers and the Royal Victoria Yacht Club. I hope you enjoy the photos below!

A Few Photo's During Friday Night Inner Harbour Festivities

Friday Night Inner Harbour Festivities

IFriday Night Inner Harbour Festivities

Friday Night Inner Harbour Festivities

Photo of The Swiftsure Yachts Heading to Clover Point

Friday Night Inner Harbour Festivities

Photo of Spectators Enjoying the Start Sequence at Clover Point

Friday Night Inner Harbour Festivities

Photo From Oak Bay's King George Terrace Look Out 

Friday Night Inner Harbour Festivities

On a personal note: Completed years ago my 'Basic I' which I remember very well...having capsized in order to pass this level... and enjoying hot choclate afterwards to warm the body from the ocean temperatures... ha ha ha - below is a little photo of me and my son while sailing for a week down the coast of Baja Mexico...in a harness on deck and my son below... an incredible experience from 1997 and realizing a full week of sailing was enough for me... smile... Wishing you all a great weekend and if you have any real estate questions please call me direct at 250.744.4556, twenty-eight years of experience... stay tuned for more updates. Cheers!

Brenda Russell     Brenda Russell Realtor in Oak Bay

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Oak Bay Artists' Studio Spring Tour 2017

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This year there are 26 local Artists in this self guided free event, Saturday and Sunday April 22 -23 2017 from noon - 4:30pm.  The artists will be opening their home studios to the public showing paintings in watercolour, acrylic, oil as well as jewelry, art cards, ceramics, photograhy, paper castings, woodcuts and more. Come and walk, drive or ride your bike to locations shown on the map above.  Meet the artists!

Several of these artists have received nationwide and international recognition.

1.  Victor Lotto - An award winning painter in acrylics and watercolour, Victor invites you to his studio to see his latest paintings from Canada and his travels overseas.

2.  Pam Stonehouse - Pam explores trees, water, flowers, animals and the unexpected by foot, bike and canoe.  Cards, prints, canvas and metal.

3.  Avis Rasmussen - 'Tour Memory Lane' triptych linocuts, drypoint polymer prints.  All original artworks.  'Garden World,' chapbooks, rubbings, and cards.  Plus print your own card...

4.  Claire Christinel - An award winning artist, Claire welcomes you to her studio!  Enjoy her most recent vibrant landscpe paintings, in either oils or acrylics.  Her art cards will also be available.

5.  Anne Hansen - Anne is famour for her oystercatcher art.  She is also fond of herons, bears, woodpeckers and bald eagles.

6.  Linda Lindsay - Linda is known for her sensitively sculpted, and life-like terracotta and bronze figures. She is passionate about representing the best in humanity.

7.  Jean Betts - Jean's textiles reflect her continuing studies in Japan.  Handwoven silk scarves, linens and decorative pieces using handspun yams and natural dyes.

8.  Myra Baynton - A selection of water colour and acrylic paintings that represent local and international settings.  These works are inspired by the vibrancy of nature and travel.

9.  Vivian Lochridge - Vivian's style is direct.  Her brush strokes evoke a kind of synesthesia, the sound of colour.  She explores, in oils, the balance and harmony of form.

10.  Arlene Davey - In Chinese Brush Painting, the choice of subject matter, simplicity of composition and direct manner of execution bring life to this traditional medium.

Below is a photo describing the artist, location and phone number

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11.  Flo-Elle Watson - Using up-cycled white porcelain for her canvas;  Flo-Elle creates an original one-of-a-kind, permanent, non toxic, and functional piece of art.  Flo-Elle welcomes you, come and view her latest creations.

12.  Bonnie-Anne Goodwin - Bonnie has collected antique and spiritual beads in her travels.  She now is creating unique bracelets and necklaces.

13.  Sandi Madsen - The studio is full of beautifully hand crafted pottery and silver jewellery.

14.  Paul Redchurch - Once again, Paul is back with an eclectic mix of water-colours and acrylic paintings as well as his always popular greeting cards.

15.  Robert Amos - Overflowing with creativity, Robert's studio is a must see.  Paintings of Oak Bay, musings about James Joyce, books and prints and umbrellas.  Don't miss it.

16.  Sarah Amos - "Well made, strong confident new oils of Oak Bay and Victoria.  An eclectic group of smaller paintings too."

Below is photo showing off more artists contact information for the 18th Annual Oak Bay Artists' Studio Spring Tour for 2017

thumb17.  Erik Thorn - "My work mostly in acrylic, reflects my love of colour, natural patterns and details."  Exhibition and collections in Canada, France, Scandinavia, and New Zealand.

18.  Miriam Thorn - "I use oil pastels, watercolours, mixed media and photography inspired by natural forms and music."  Exhibitions and collections in Canada, USA, UK, France, Scandinavia, New Zealand and Australia.

19.  Joan Turner - "I am at a new location but my art is still the same! Vibrant Colours! Looking forward to seeing art lovers!."

20.  Joanie McCorry - Discover the new magic Joanie has created via her three dimensional paper castings, collages and photos.  New greeting cards on display.

21.  Marie-Andree Allison - Represented in several ancient media, the subjects displayed are either figurative or abstract.  A long-time visual artist and art educator, Marie offers demonstrations in some of the techniques.

22.  F. Caroline Hunter - An award winning artist, Caroline welcomes you to her home to view her watercolour and acrylic paintings and cards.

23.  Greg Stoneman - Greg is pleased to welcome you to his Jactone Studios to view his unique styles of multimedia woodart.

24.  Val Woulters - "Shapes and colours I notice everyday inspire me to express the peace and joy of nature through the use of mixed media o canvas"

25.  Bruce Vallance - Bruce continues to explore boat, figure and eclectic themes.  His garden and renovated studio akes this a 'must see' visit.

26.  Myrna Germaine-Brown - Myrna is creating larger works inspired by familiar subjects and surroundings using her painted and dyed fabric enhanced with pastels.

Below is a photo of artists in this weekends special free self guided tour

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Wishing you all a fabulous weekend and please stay tuned for more Oak Bay updates! 

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Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this Condo for sale, 301 1687 Poplar Avenue, Mt. Tolmie, Victoria, BC

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'The Poplar' is located in the Mt. Tolmie Area. This warm and inviting corner suite offers windows on three sides! Immaculate two bedroom, two bathroom and is conveniently located within walking distance to shops, banks, restaurants, park and the University of Victoria. The Seller professionally enstalled a walk-in shower with seat in the ensuite bathroom. The main bathroom offers a tub/shower. The 'Murphy bed' and built-in desk will remain in the second bedroom for the new owner. In 2015 the Seller professionally replaced the fireplace with a new 'Valor' gas fireplace in the livingroom. This bright kitchen has lots of cupboards and counter space, an eating area and two large windows. The sliding doors are located off the dining area and lead to a nice spacious 18 x 6 balcony (approx). This suite has ensuite laundry facilities, secure underground parking and a storage locker. A fantastic location close to schools, and a short stroll to picturesque Mt. Tolmie Park. Ready for immediate occupancy. All yours!

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Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this House for sale, 46 King George Terrace, Oak Bay, Victoria, BC

A very rare offering in Oak Bay. The Gonzales area is a special one... sweeping southerly ocean views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic mountains showcase this solid, classic, 1965 post and beam home. Located in one of Victoria's most prestigious locations. Probably the most affordable offering on King George Terrace in years, boasts three bedrooms (could be four), three bathrooms, oak floors, floor to ceiling fireplace, some thermo windows and is a blank canvas for your imagination. Perched on an easy-care lot, rock terracing and a green house in the rear. Bonus: Drive into the garage and walk right in to the home. Some properties in this area the garage is either at street level or there isn't one. Enjoy the sunsets, sailboats, vessels and all the activity this exposure offers. Views of Gonzales Bay as well. Only minutes walk to this beach which I like to call 'Victoria's Malibu'. Victoria Golf Course is only a few minutes drive as well as the Oak Bay Marina. This home offers immediate occupancy upon completion of the sale.

A short video showing off a little of Gonzales Bay.


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Brenda Russell is so happy for her clients purchase at 1027 Roslyn Road, South Oak Bay, Victoria, BC

Simply a beautiful home in South Oak Bay! Solid and charming. This home is well loved and cared for. One could easily read about it in a 'House and Garden' magazine. Once inside you will appreciate the designer vibe of the interior spaces and the natural light, gorgeous wood floors, coved ceilings and privacy throughout. Cozy gas fireplace. The garden has been custom designed with walkways offering many areas of sun, solace and refuge. Situated on a quiet street but walking distance to the Oak Bay Village and cafe.

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The Coming Foreign Student Explosion

 
This evening, I received this information from one of our top BC Immigration lawyers and wanted to share it with you...
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There are only two ways that any country can increase its population – one by a positive birthrate or secondly by immigration.
 
Demographic studies that show that by 2030 Canada’s birthrate will have declined to such a point that deaths will outpace the number of births.  That means our sole growth in Canadian population will be from immigration.  Levels of immigration per year have been consistently between 250,000 to 260,000 individuals obtaining permanent residents every year through one of the three main avenues, economic, family or refugee class.  The present Minister of Immigration has set the target at 300,000 permanent residents per year.
 
The government's policy is focused now primarily on the 20 to 29-year-old demographic.  Such a policy for a country like Canada is prudent.  The previous Conservative government placed an emphasis on youth, English or French capabilities, having Canadian educational credentials and Canadian work experience.
 
What better way to qualify  potential permanent residents than by opening the doors wide to international youth to have them first study in Canada and then assure them of at least a three year work permit to work.  Once a student enters Canada it is obvious that they must have achieved a competent level of English or French assuring them of a Canadian credential which will be recognized by Canadian employers.  To assist in their work experience the government grants a three-year work permit upon the successful completion of the two or more year degree.  Employers in Canada now are assured of a freshly-trained labour force.
 
Gone are the old backlog days whereby applicants made application for residency, but after many many years found that their qualifications and work experience were not being recognized after entry.
 
As a result of this policy change, the foreign student population has exploded in Canada.  From this favoured demographic our population will grow providing a constant source of permanent residents for the future.
 
Here are the historical statistics over ten years to show how the student population has mushroomed:
 
1)      BY DESTINATION
                                                2005/2006                 2014/2015
         Canada                            234,000                      435,000
         British Columbia                69,000                      129,000
 
2)      BY TOP SOURCE COUNTRIES
                                                     2005                         2014
         China                                48,000                     129,000
         India                                   9,000                        52,000
         Korea                               40,000                        28,000
         France                             11,000                        25,000
         Saudi Arabia                      2,000                        18,000
         USA                                 17,000                        16,000
         Brazil                                 2,000                        15,000
        Japan                                 4,000                        11,000
 
With the Brexit vote now over and the US immigration policy uncertain, European youth who previously looked to the UK for an English-speaking milieu will also focus their sights on Canada.  In this regard, Britain’s economic loss will become Canada’s immigration gain.
 

S. DAVID AUJLA, PLC
CANADIAN IMMIGRATION LAWYER
Website: www.BCimmigration.com

If you have any real estate questions please call me direct at 250.744.4556 or toll free at 1.800.550.0585.  Please stay tuned for more updates!  Thank you.

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Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this House for sale, 3058 Henderson Road, Oak Bay, Victoria, BC

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Ultra desirable Henderson area! This warm and inviting classic 50's family home sits in a prime location on the Lansdowne/Henderson slope. Almost 1700 sqft on the MAIN FLOOR! Offering PRIVACY, City, Mountain VIEWS and some ocean on clear days towards the Oak Bay Beach Hotel. The owner loved her home for 40 years. All principal rooms are of generous proportions with large picturesque windows. The dining room with French doors to a sun deck. Gorgeous oak flooring. Three fireplaces. The lower level provides a 23 x 15 family room with sliding doors to the patio and private fenced yard (could offer wheel chair access), extra bedroom and ensuite, PLUS a large unfinished area. BONUS: DOUBLE garage with ceiling height ranging from 16'-11'5. Walk to Camosun College and Uplands Golf Course. A short bus ride to The University of Victoria and downtown.

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Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this West Coast House for sale, 3384 Cardiff Place, Henderson Oak Bay, Victoria, BC

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The Grande Dame of Cardiff Place in Henderson Oak Bay. This very rare offering perfectly combines west coast tradition and privacy in the area. 113 x 182 lot (.47 acre) with views of Mt. Baker, sunrises and sunsets all on a cul-de-sac. Gorgeous cedar ceilings, oak floors, floor to ceiling windows, updated baths. Two propane fireplaces. Completely NEW kitchen showcasing sleek granite, glass/tile back splash, under counter lighting, centre island with a solid block. NEW Stainless appliances (French door fridge w/water/ice filters, two ovens). Two sets of washer/dryers (one set: Bosch) BONUS: ELEVATOR (with new motor) off the kitchen!! Entertainment size dining room leading to either the GRAND livingroom, sunroom and decks. New windows 2010. New TRANE Air Conditioning/Heat pump and Hot Water Tank. Double garage. Walk to the University of Victoria and Henderson Recreation Centre. Bus route to downtown on Henderson Road and minutes drive to Uplands golf Course.

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Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this Townhouse for sale, 141 2345 Cedar Hill Cross Road, Henderson, Oak Bay, Victoria, BC

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Welcome to Elegance. 'Uplands Estates' is a well established, exclusive gated community in Oak Bay. This RARE ONE LEVEL townhome has been designer refurbished and unrivalled in condition! An idyllic floor plan. Wood floors in bedrooms and hall, tile in the entry, cork in kitchen and broadloom in living the formal dining areas. A gorgeous kitchen with corner windows, patio door, Kitchen Aid appliances, Quartz counters, under counter lighting, Italian tile back splash, pot lights. Large Master suite has access to a private patio as does the large den with built-ins and the living area. Generous window sizes, Phantom screens and Hunter Douglas Blinds throughout. Double garage with workbench and windows. Beauty, lush landscaped grounds overlooking Uplands Golf Course. Propane and electric BBQ's allowed.

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Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this House for sale, 1680 Earle Street, Fairfield East, Victoria, BC

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This beauty is a 1923 Character house in prime Fairfield close to the South Oak Bay border. 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 you need and great bus routes to UVIC and down town. Walk to the Fairfield Plaza, Hollywood Park and Ross Bay... Margaret Jenkins Elementary School is also just a few minutes away and offers French Immersion. Gorgeous wood floors, beams, built-ins, window seat, wood burning fireplace. Double carport. The lot shows off a nice 60 x 144 size! Undeveloped basement. New roof last year. Bonus: WALK to sandy Gonzales beach!

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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.