VICTORIA, BC-The story continues from last month when the Victoria Real Estate Board reported a relatively stable market when compared to the same time in 2011, but REALTORS® report they are optimistic that new provincial HST transition rules and a New Home First-time Buyers Bonus will stimulate sales of new properties.

February’s sale volume was virtually identical to that of February 2011, but the average price softened by 5% for single family homes  over February 2011. The average sales price for a single family home in Greater Victoria was $579,985, with a six-month average of $594,027, showing a corresponding decrease of 4.7% over February 2011.

“REALTORS® are reporting increased showings, especially since the Provincial budget announcements,” says Carol Crabb, President of the Victoria Real Estate Board. “Our Members tell me the HST transition rules, increased HST rebates and New Home First-time Buyers Bonus are stimulating traffic for both new houses and condos.

“I think the BC budget also instilled consumer confidence. Potential buyers can see that our economy is stable and mortgage rates are incredibly low”, Crabb says. “Not only are prices remaining stable, there are enough listings to allow buyers to perform their due diligence without making rash decisions. We encourage buyers to work with REALTORS® to ensure they are educated about current market conditions and recently announced government incentives.”

With 3,977 active listings at the end of February, Crabb notes increased supply levels and sales are expected in keeping with the normal historical trend of spring activity.

Total non-waterfront Single Family Dwellings sold: 258, up 4 sales over February 2011
Total waterfront Single Family Dwellings sold: 7, down 3 sales over February 2011
Single Family Dwellings sold over $1 million: 14 (1 over $2 million)

Summary Report and Graphs

Monthly Sales Summary
Average Selling Price Graphs
Active Listings, New Listings and Sales Graphs

When Interpreting Our Statistics

To ensure sales are not over-reported, we report net sales: that is, the number of sales less the number of collapsed sales, if any.  Average Price is the total dollar volume of sales  for the month divided by the number of sales in the month.  Six Month Average is the total dollar volume of sales  for the last six months divided the total number of sales in the last six  months.  Median Price is the mid-point price between the least  expensive sale and the most expensive sale in the month.

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