The holiday season is a time of joy, warmth, and creativity. However, it can also result in significant waste and environmental impact. Adopting eco-friendly holiday décor reduces your carbon footprint and encourages sustainable traditions. 

Here are some creative and environmentally conscious ideas for decorating your home this holiday season.

1. Natural Decorations

Nature provides endless inspiration for holiday décor. Pinecones, branches, dried flowers, and evergreen boughs make beautiful, biodegradable decorations. You can create garlands by stringing together cranberries, popcorn, or dried orange slices. These can be composted after the holidays, leaving no waste behind.

Consider using potted plants instead of a cut Christmas tree. A small potted pine, spruce, or fir can be decorated with ornaments and lights and later replanted in your garden or cared for indoors.

2. DIY Ornaments

Homemade ornaments are eco-friendly and add a personal touch to your holiday décor. Craft unique decorations using materials like fabric scraps, paper, or salt dough. For example, cut old greeting cards into festive shapes or create origami ornaments using recycled paper.

Repurposing household items like bottle caps, wine corks, or mason jar lids can also result in stunning ornaments. Involve your family in these projects to make the decorating process a shared experience.

3. Sustainable Wrapping and Display

Swap traditional wrapping paper, which often contains plastic and glitter, for reusable or recyclable alternatives. Use fabric wraps, newspaper, or brown kraft paper decorated with stamps or drawings. Store-bought gift bags can also be reused year after year.

Display wrapped gifts as part of your décor by stacking them under the tree or on shelves. Adding simple ribbons or sprigs of greenery can elevate the presentation while keeping it eco-conscious.

4. Energy Efficient Lighting

Holiday lights are a staple of festive décor, but they can consume much energy. Instead, opt for LED lights, which use significantly less electricity than traditional incandescent bulbs. Solar-powered outdoor lights are another excellent choice.

To reduce energy consumption, set your lights on a timer so they're only on during peak evening hours. This practice saves energy and extends the life of your light strings.

5. Upcycled and Vintage Finds

Thrift stores and vintage shops are treasure troves for unique and sustainable holiday décor. Look for second-hand ornaments, candleholders, and table linens. Upcycling old items into festive decorations can also be a rewarding and eco-friendly hobby. For instance, turn an old sweater into stockings or make a lantern out of a glass jar.

6. Edible Decorations

Incorporating food into your decorations can add charm and reduce waste. Adorn your tree with gingerbread cookies, candy canes, or cinnamon sticks, and then enjoy them later. Create a stunning centerpiece with a fruit bowl or a wreath with dried herbs and spices.

7. Avoid Single-Use Plastic

Whenever possible, avoid decorations made of single-use plastics. Instead, invest in high-quality, durable pieces that you can use year after year. Choose biodegradable materials, like wood or fabric, over plastic.

By embracing these eco-friendly holiday décor ideas, you can celebrate the season while honouring the planet. Sustainable decorating reduces waste and fosters creativity and mindfulness, making the holidays even more meaningful.

Selling your home during winter presents unique challenges, especially regarding curb appeal. Winter's harsh conditions, shorter days, and sometimes drab landscapes can make it difficult for your home to stand out. However, with a little effort and creativity, you can ensure your home is as inviting and appealing as it would be in any other season. 

These are practical tips to enhance your home's curb appeal in winter.

1. Enhance Lighting

Winter days are shorter, meaning prospective buyers may visit your home in low-light conditions. Ensure all exterior lights are functional and consider upgrading to brighter, warm-toned LED bulbs to create a welcoming ambiance. Highlight key features with strategically placed lighting, such as along pathways, around your entryway, or showcasing a well-maintained garden bed.

2. Add Seasonal Décor

Tasteful winter-themed décor can add warmth and charm to your home's exterior. A simple wreath on the door, a pair of planters filled with evergreen boughs, or string lights on trees can create an inviting look. However, avoid overly festive or personal decorations, as they may not appeal to everyone. Stick to neutral, classic designs that enhance your home's aesthetic.

3. Maintain Landscaping

While winter may limit lush greenery, keeping your yard tidy is crucial. Trim bushes, remove dead branches, and rake any remaining leaves. If snow is present, ensure it's evenly shoveled to avoid a messy appearance. Consider planting winter-friendly greenery, such as evergreen shrubs, to add a touch of life to your yard.

4. Refresh Your Exterior

A fresh coat of paint on your front door, shutters, or trim can make a big difference, especially against a snowy backdrop. Clean your windows to let in as much natural light as possible, and ensure your siding and gutters are free from dirt and debris. Cleanliness and small improvements signal pride in ownership.

5. Focus on the Front Door

The front door is a focal point; it can benefit from extra attention in winter. In addition to a fresh coat of paint or a welcoming wreath, ensure your door hardware is polished and in good condition. A clean, attractive doormat can also make a strong statement.

6. Showcase the Warmth From Inside

Winter buyers often want a sense of coziness. Keep your curtains open during showings to let in light and reveal a warm, inviting interior. If you have a fireplace, light it to create an irresistible sense of comfort. This inside-out approach adds to your home's curb appeal from the street.

7. Pay Attention to Details

Small touches, such as well-maintained house numbers, a polished mailbox, or even a clean, freshly painted garage door, can elevate your home's appearance. Attention to detail reassures buyers that the property has been well cared for.

Selling your home in winter may come with extra effort, but maintaining curb appeal can make a significant difference. By keeping your property safe, clean, and inviting and incorporating simple touches of seasonal charm, you can help buyers envision themselves living there — even during the coldest months of the year.

Owning a home comes with many costs that can strain your budget. But homeowners can save money with savvy strategies. 

Here are some top tips to help you enjoy the advantages of homeownership without breaking the bank.

1. Smart Energy Savings

Reducing energy costs is one of the most effective ways to cut home expenses. Start by sealing drafts around windows and doors with weatherstripping or caulk, saving up to 20% on heating and cooling bills. Additionally, consider adding insulation in attics, basements, and other areas where heat might escape. Installing a programmable thermostat can also help by lowering temperatures when you're away or asleep, leading to 10-15% energy savings over time.

Also, consider switching to energy-efficient LED bulbs and appliances, which use significantly less power than traditional options. While they may have a higher upfront cost, the savings over time make them worth the investment.

2. Routine Maintenance and DIY Repairs

Regular maintenance can prevent costly repairs down the road. For example, cleaning your gutters twice yearly keeps them working properly and prevents water damage. Changing HVAC filters every three months keeps your heating and cooling systems efficient, reducing energy costs and prolonging the unit's life.

Learning basic DIY skills can also save money. Tasks like fixing a leaky faucet, unclogging drains, and painting can be done without hiring a professional. YouTube tutorials and home improvement blogs are great resources to help you get started.

3. Mindful Landscaping

Landscaping can enhance your home's curb appeal but doesn't have to be costly. Choose native, drought-resistant plants requiring minimal water and maintenance, reducing water bills and landscaping costs. Mulching around plants can also help retain moisture, keeping them healthier and reducing the need for frequent watering.

If you want to grow vegetables, a small garden can be cost-effective and add fresh produce to your table. Start with easy-to-grow vegetables like tomatoes, lettuce, and herbs, which can yield a rewarding harvest with minimal upkeep.

4. Use Energy-Efficient Appliances and Smart Tech

If you're upgrading appliances, choose energy-efficient models with a high Energy Star rating. Although these appliances might have a higher purchase price, they consume less energy, resulting in lower utility bills. Investing in smart home technology, like a smart thermostat or energy-monitoring plugs, allows you to control usage and identify energy-draining devices.

5. Shop Around for Insurance

Homeowners insurance is essential, but premiums vary widely among providers. Shopping around for coverage and comparing quotes can help you find a plan that suits your needs at the best possible rate. Be sure to ask about discounts, such as bundling your home and auto insurance, which can lower premiums. Also, regularly reviewing your policy ensures you aren't overpaying for coverage you no longer need.

6. Be Strategic About Home Improvements

Some home improvements add value to your home, while others don't. Focus on cost-effective upgrades that enhance your quality of life and resale value. For example, kitchen and bathroom updates, fresh paint, and new flooring yield a good return on investment. Avoid high-cost renovations unless necessary, and consider doing smaller updates yourself if possible.

Homeownership doesn't have to drain your budget. By following these tips, you can enjoy the benefits of owning a home while keeping costs in check.

A total of 654 properties sold in the Victoria Real Estate Board region this October, 60.7 per cent more than the 407 properties sold in October 2023 and a 14.5 per cent increase from September 2024. Sales of condominiums were up 32.6 per cent from October 2023 with 187 units sold. Sales of single family homes increased by 76.2 per cent from October 2023 with 340 sold.

“Sales did increase notably over last year, but it’s important to include some context,” said 2024 Victoria Real Estate Board Chair-Elect Dirk VanderWal. “October 2023 saw the fewest sales in that month since 2008, which distorts a year-over-year comparison; in fact, last month’s sales count was almost exactly on the ten-year average for the month. With that context, although we’ve certainly seen a notable increase in sales month over month, this does signal a return to a more average market for this time of year. The number of homes available on the market has remained relatively consistent, which has also created the benefit of a more balanced market for buyers and sellers, even with the increase in sales numbers.”

There were 3,161 active listings for sale on the Victoria Real Estate Board Multiple Listing Service® at the end of October 2024, a decrease of 6 per cent compared to the previous month of September and a 14.7 per cent increase from the 2,756 active listings for sale at the end of October 2023.

“I think it’s safe to say that many consumers have been watching the Bank of Canada rate announcements, and that could be influencing their decision making,” adds Chair-Elect VanderWal. “Recent rate drops likely encouraged a few more buyers and sellers to enter the market, and we may see that trend continue in November, the month which traditionally begins our market’s winter lull. Even though sales were higher last month, we are still experiencing a comfortable environment for buyers and sellers to negotiate. There are fewer multiple offers and more time for the decision-making process. It is hard to predict what the winter market will bring, so it’s a great idea to consult with your favourite local REALTOR® to discuss the current market.”

The Multiple Listing Service® Home Price Index benchmark value for a single family home in the Victoria Core in October 2023 was $1,310,100. The benchmark value for the same home in October 2024 decreased by 0.8 per cent to $1,300,200, up from September’s value of $1,279,700. The MLS® HPI benchmark value for a condominium in the Victoria Core area in October 2023 was $578,800 while the benchmark value for the same condominium in October 2024 decreased by 5.4 per cent to $547,800, down from the September value of $553,400.

When selling a home, it can be challenging to remove emotional attachment. Whether it's the house where you and your spouse first lived, where you raised a family, or where you've created lasting memories, selling it can feel like an emotional process. However, too much emotional investment can interfere with making sound, objective decisions. 

Here's how to manage and remove emotional attachment when selling a home:

1. Understand That It's a Financial Transaction

First and foremost, shifting your mindset from thinking of your home as an emotional space to thinking of it as a financial asset is crucial. While your home has been the setting for important life events, it's also an investment, and selling it is a business decision. Focusing on the financial gain, market conditions, and sale price can help you reframe the process.

To do this effectively, research the real estate market, understand current trends, and consider how selling your home will positively impact your finances. Whether it's downsizing, upgrading, or investing the proceeds elsewhere, keeping your eyes on the financial outcome will help detach from the sentimental value.

2. Depersonalize the Space

Depersonalizing your home is a crucial step in emotionally detaching from it. Remove personal items like family photos, children's artwork, and other objects tied to your memories. This will help you see the property as a house, not your home.

From a practical perspective, depersonalizing also allows potential buyers to envision the space as their future home, increasing the likelihood of a sale. When the house is no longer filled with personal items, it will feel less like your space, making it easier to distance yourself emotionally.

3. Focus on the Future

Feeling sad about selling a home with personal memories is natural, but focusing on the future is also essential. Think about what lies ahead instead of dwelling on what you're leaving behind. Whether you're moving into a new home, relocating to a different area, or embarking on a new adventure, focusing on the excitement of what comes next can help shift your perspective.

Consider writing a list of what you look forward to after the sale. This exercise can help you focus on your future rather than clinging to the past.

4. Hire a Real Estate Agent

One way to take the emotional weight off your shoulders is to hire a professional real estate agent. Agents are experts in the home-selling process and can objectively guide you through the transaction. They can help you price your home based on market value rather than any personal attachment you may have.

A real estate agent will also handle the negotiations on your behalf, which can be a relief if you're emotionally tied to the outcome. Their experience and knowledge will provide a buffer between you and the stress of the selling process.

5. Consider the Buyer's Perspective 

Finally, it's essential to remind yourself that, to a buyer, your home is simply a property. They won't see it through the same emotional lens that you do. Instead of thinking about the memories you've created, try to see your home from their perspective.

By shifting your focus to the needs and desires of the buyer, you can start to let go of the emotional ties that make it difficult to sell. After all, the goal is to present the house as a desirable asset that will appeal to others.

Selling a home is often a sentimental experience, but emotional attachment can cloud your judgment and hinder the sale process. Following these tips can reduce emotional attachment and allow you to proceed with the sale confidently and through the appropriate lens.

A total of 571 properties sold in the Victoria Real Estate Board region this September, 15.8 per cent more than the 493 properties sold in September 2023 and a 4.8 per cent increase from August 2024. Sales of condominiums were up 21.9 per cent from September 2023 with 189 units sold. Sales of single family homes increased by 19.3 per cent from September 2023 with 272 sold.

“The real estate market in Victoria right now is much more stable and more predictable than it has been in recent years,” said 2024 Victoria Real Estate Board Chair Laurie Lidstone. “We have seen a few solid months of near-balance in the market, which means it’s neither a seller’s nor a buyer’s market and positives exist for both sides of a transaction. With downward trending interest rates and stable pricing combined with more inventory on the market, our current conditions are the most comfortable for consumers to navigate that I’ve seen in a few years.”

There were 3,361 active listings for sale on the Victoria Real Estate Board Multiple Listing Service® at the end of September 2024, an increase of 5.3 per cent compared to the previous month of August and a 24.5 per cent increase from the 2,699 active listings for sale at the end of September 2023.

“In times of more balanced markets,” adds Chair Lidstone. “There is less pressure on pricing and more opportunity to take time to make big decisions on real estate. However, there are still situations where you can encounter competition. When the house, price and location are all highly desirable for buyers, we can see situations where there are competing offers. As always if you are thinking about making a move, connecting with a local REALTOR® to start building your strategy is advisable.”

The Multiple Listing Service® Home Price Index benchmark value for a single family home in the Victoria Core in September 2023 was $1,316,100. The benchmark value for the same home in September 2024 decreased by 2.8 per cent to $1,279,700, down from August’s value of $1,287,400. The MLS® HPI benchmark value for a condominium in the Victoria Core area in September 2023 was $583,400 while the benchmark value for the same condominium in September 2024 decreased by 5.1 per cent to $553,400, down from the August value of $559,200.

Your living environment is crucial to your overall well-being, so the right home can significantly enhance your mental health. Choosing a home that promotes mental wellness involves considering factors such as location, design, and the emotional impact of your space. 

Here's how to choose a home that supports your mental health:

1. Prioritize Natural Light

Exposure to natural light is essential for regulating your body's circadian rhythms, directly impacting your mood and sleep. Homes with large windows and ample sunlight can help reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). When touring potential homes, observe how much natural light the space receives during different times of the day. Rooms facing south or with unobstructed windows typically offer the most sunlight.

2. Choose a Location With Green Spaces

Proximity to nature has proven mental health benefits, including reducing stress and improving cognitive function. A home located near parks, gardens, or natural landscapes provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking or simply enjoying a calming view. If possible, prioritize homes with easy access to green spaces, as this can be a valuable tool for stress management and mental rejuvenation.

3. Ensure Peace and Quiet

Noise pollution can increase stress levels, disrupt sleep, and negatively affect your mental health. A home situated in a quiet neighbourhood, away from busy roads or industrial areas, will help create a serene environment. Consider visiting the area at different times of the day to gauge noise levels. Look for soundproof windows or thick walls to minimize disturbances and promote a peaceful living space.

4. Consider Air Quality and Ventilation 

Indoor air quality is often overlooked but critical for physical and mental health. Poor air quality can contribute to feelings of fatigue and anxiety, while good ventilation supports clearer thinking and better mood regulation. When choosing a home, ensure adequate ventilation, including operable windows and well-maintained HVAC systems. Homes away from high-traffic areas will also have fewer pollutants entering the living space.

5. Evaluate Community and Opportunities for Social Connection

Your mental health is closely tied to your social environment. A supportive community can provide a sense of belonging, reduce feelings of isolation, and increase overall life satisfaction. When choosing a home, consider its proximity to family, friends, and community resources such as recreational centres or social clubs. Living in a neighbourhood that fosters connection and community engagement can have a profoundly positive impact on your emotional well-being.

6. Opt for a Minimalistic Design

The design of your home can also influence your mental health. Overly cluttered or chaotic spaces can lead to feelings of anxiety and overwhelm. Look for homes with clean, open layouts that encourage simplicity and minimalism. If you're moving into a home that needs redecorating, aim for neutral colours and functional designs that promote a sense of calm and organization.

Choosing a home that boosts your mental health involves more than just finding a functional living space. It requires thoughtful consideration of the elements contributing to emotional well-being. By prioritizing these factors, you can create an environment that supports your physical and mental health, leading to a happier, more fulfilling life.

A total of 545 properties sold in the Victoria Real Estate Board region this August, 0.2 per cent more than the 544 properties sold in August 2023 and a 16.5 per cent decrease from July 2024. Sales of condominiums were up 10.4 per cent from August 2023 with 181 units sold. Sales of single family homes decreased by 7.7 per cent from August 2023 with 252 sold.

“The final month of the summer is generally a rather relaxed one in terms of real estate sales and listings,” said 2024 Victoria Real Estate Board Chair Laurie Lidstone. “Many folks pause their home shopping activities or pause their sales listing to make the most of other summer activities and vacations. It’s no surprise that sales this year were so close to the sales from 2023 and that listings declined slightly from the number we saw in July.”

There were 3,191 active listings for sale on the Victoria Real Estate Board Multiple Listing Service® at the end of August 2024, a decrease of 4.7 per cent compared to the previous month of July and a 28.2 per cent increase from the 2,490 active listings for sale at the end of August 2023.

“It’s likely our market will trend a bit busier in the upcoming fall months,” adds Chair Lidstone. “In September people return their attention to work and school and to bigger projects like making a move. Week by week into the fall our market will evolve so if you are considering listing or buying a home in the Victoria area, connect with your favourite local REALTOR® to help develop your best real estate strategy.”

The Multiple Listing Service® Home Price Index benchmark value for a single family home in the Victoria Core in August 2023 was $1,327,800. The benchmark value for the same home in August 2024 decreased by 3 per cent to $1,287,400, down from July’s value of $1,296,100. The MLS® HPI benchmark value for a condominium in the Victoria Core area in August 2023 was $575,900 while the benchmark value for the same condominium in August 2024 decreased by 2.9 per cent to $559,200, down from the July value of $567,800.

As the vibrant days of summer give way to the cool embrace of fall, it's time to prepare your home for the changing season. Fall is a time of transition, and preparing your home can ensure it remains comfortable, energy-efficient, and ready for the colder months ahead. Here are some steps to take to prepare your home for fall.

1. Inspect and Clean Your Heating System

One of the most important tasks to prepare for fall is to ensure your heating system is working and ready to endure the season ahead. Before the cold weather sets in, have a professional inspect your furnace, heat pump, or boiler. This inspection should include checking for any leaks, cracks, or other issues that could affect the system's efficiency. Changing the air filters is also essential to ensure your heating system runs smoothly and efficiently. A clean filter improves air quality and helps the system run more effectively, saving energy and lowering utility bills. 

2. Clean Eavestroughs and Downspouts

Falling leaves are a hallmark of autumn, but they can also clog eavestroughs and downspouts, leading to potential water damage. Take the time to clean out your eavestroughs and ensure downspouts are clear of debris. Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow and damage your roof, siding, and foundation. Ensure that water is directed away from your home to prevent water from pooling around the foundation, which can lead to basement leaks or other structural issues. Installing eavestrough guards is also a great idea to help keep debris out and reduce the frequency of cleaning.

3. Prepare Your Lawn and Garden

As you prepare your home for fall, don't forget about your lawn and garden. Rake up fallen leaves to prevent them from suffocating your grass and creating brown patches. Fall is also the perfect time to aerate your lawn, which helps improve soil health and allows water, nutrients, and air to reach the grass roots more effectively. 

4. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide

With the increased use of heating systems in the fall, it's crucial to ensure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in working order. Test each device and replace batteries if needed. This is also an excellent time to review your family's emergency plan and ensure everyone knows what to do in case of a fire or carbon monoxide leak. Safety should always be a priority when preparing your home for the season.

5. Transition Your Home Decor

Finally, preparing your home for fall isn't just about maintenance — it's also a time to transition your décor to reflect the season's warmth and coziness. Consider adding throws, cushions, and area rugs in rich, warm tones like burgundy, gold, and orange. Swap out lightweight summer bedding for heavier blankets or duvets to keep warm during cooler nights. Scented candles in autumnal scents like cinnamon, apple, and pumpkin spice can also help create a cozy and inviting atmosphere in your home.

By taking these steps to prepare your home for fall, you can ensure it remains comfortable, energy-efficient, and safe throughout the season. Taking proactive measures now can help you avoid potential issues and allow you to enjoy the beauty and comfort of fall to the fullest.

A total of 650 properties sold in the Victoria Real Estate Board region this July, 9.2 per cent more than the 595 properties sold in July 2023 and a 1.7 per cent decrease from June 2024. Sales of condominiums were up 6.5 per cent from July 2023 with 213 units sold. Sales of single family homes increased by 8.9 percent from July 2023 with 319 sold.

“The month of July delivered another steady month of sales and listings, as we’d expect for an average summer season in our market,” said 2024 Victoria Real Estate Board Chair Laurie Lidstone. “The sales in July tracked very closely to June numbers, which may have surprised some who expected that summer vacations would take more buyers out of the market. We did see inventory shrink a little from the previous month. This is not unusual for this time of year, but it is a trend we’ll keep an eye on because inventory levels are crucial to keeping our market balanced.”

There were 3,348 active listings for sale on the Victoria Real Estate Board Multiple Listing Service® at the end of July 2024, a decrease of 3.2 per cent compared to the previous month of June and a 38.4 per cent increase from the 2,419 active listings for sale at the end of July 2023.

“There continues to be a lot of government intervention in our housing market,” adds Chair Lidstone. “Recently, the provincial government announced changes to the Residential Tenancy Act that have resulted in some uncertainty for those considering homes with rental options. The changes have made an already complex transaction much more complicated and have added more risk. If you are considering purchasing or selling a tenanted or rental property, it’s imperative to bring in the assistance of a REALTOR® to navigate new requirements and ensure your transaction is successful.”

The Multiple Listing Service® Home Price Index benchmark value for a single family home in the Victoria Core in July 2023 was $1,322,800. The benchmark value for the same home in July 2024 decreased by 2 per cent to $1,296,100, up from June’s value of $1,295,500. The MLS® HPI benchmark value for a condominium in the Victoria Core area in July 2023 was $571,500 while the benchmark value for the same condominium in July 2024 decreased by 0.6 per cent to $567,800, down from the June value of $567,900.

Whether you're out of your usual cleaning products or prefer a more eco-friendly home improvement alternative to chemical-based cleaners, the natural cleaning solutions found in your kitchen might surprise you. And we're not just talking about home improvement standards baking soda and vinegar! You can clean almost every part of your home with these supplies and get great results.

Lemons for Cleaning and Brighter Whites

The natural acidity and pleasant scent of lemons make them ideal for a variety of home improvement purposes, and you can also use lemons to brighten white clothes. Put a few sliced lemons into a pot of simmering water, then add any clothes you want to whiten and let the mixture simmer. When you remove the clothing items, they should have a lighter look.

Clean Tough Grease Buildup with Coffee

Scrubbing your grill grate can be a tough home improvement task no matter what cleaner you use, but one of the best grill cleaners is likely already sitting on your kitchen counter. Make a large pot of coffee, pour it into a large pan, and let your grill grate soak for at least 30 minutes. After you remove the grate from the coffee, it should be much easier to scrub away stubborn grease buildup.

Coarse Salt Is Great for Cleaning Cooking Surfaces

If you're looking for a natural way to clean cooking surfaces — especially anything made from cast iron — then coarse salt is an excellent candidate. Coarse salt absorbs grease, so it's useful for scouring kitchenware, stove-tops, and any surface where grease builds up.

Natural Wood Polish with Olive Oil and Lemon

Mix olive oil with a splash of fresh lemon juice for a natural wood polish that brings the best out of wood surfaces without leaving behind chemical residue. This combination is excellent for polishing wood floors, but you should always polish a small, out-of-the-way area first to ensure that the mixture works for the type of wood in your home.

Club Soda for Stain Removal

Whether you use it on carpets or clothing, club soda is one of the best stain removers you can have in your home. The carbonation of club soda helps lift stains to the surface, making them easier to remove. Just pour some club soda on the stain, allow it to soak, then give it a thorough cleaning.

Cream of Tartar Cleans and Refreshes Stainless Steel

Cream of tartar is mildly acidic but still gentle enough to use for cleaning and home improvement projects. It's especially useful for stainless steel surfaces, including your ink. Just mix the cream of tartar with a small amount of water to create a paste, spread the paste on the surface you want to clean, and wash it off with warm water.

Freshen Your Microwave with Lemon Juice and Water

Any leftover used lemons can be put to work cleaning your microwave. Just place the used lemons into a bowl of water, place the bowl in the microwave, heat it until it boils, then remove it. The steam adds a fresh scent and makes it easy to wipe away messes with minimal effort.

While natural cleaners may sometimes require more elbow grease than their store-bought counterparts, the results are more than worth it. Using natural cleaners is an easy way to save money on home improvement, embrace green living, and tackle tough messes.

A total of 763 properties sold in the Victoria Real Estate Board region this May, 1.5 per cent fewer than the 775 properties sold in May 2023 and a 12.5 per cent increase from April 2024. Sales of condominiums were down 5.2 per cent from May 2023 with 235 units sold. Sales of single family homes exactly matched the number from May 2023 with 399 sold.

“Spring is generally prime time for real estate in Victoria,” said 2024 Victoria Real Estate Board Chair Laurie Lidstone. “And May is typically when we are at or near to the peak of activity in our property market. This May was another stable month for both buyers and sellers. With more inventory on the market, consumers had more choice and could take time to make decisions and complete their due diligence. The additional listings also meant less pressure on pricing, so prices remained relatively flat.”

There were 3,338 active listings for sale on the Victoria Real Estate Board Multiple Listing Service® at the end of May 2024, an increase of 10.6 per cent compared to the previous month of April and a 52.5 per cent increase from the 2,189 active listings for sale at the end of May 2023.

“After so many years of consumers navigating an unbalanced market, it is positive for buyers and sellers to see some months of consistent balance,” adds Chair Lidstone. “A lot of folks who have been watching the market over recent years may find that now is a good time to sell and buy as market conditions have changed for the better. Of course, as always, I recommend connecting with your favourite REALTOR® to create a strategy specific to your needs.”

The Multiple Listing Service® Home Price Index benchmark value for a single family home in the Victoria Core in May 2023 was $1,300,900. The benchmark value for the same home in May 2024 increased by 0.7 per cent to $1,309,700, up from April’s value of $1,301,800. The MLS® HPI benchmark value for a condominium in the Victoria Core area in May 2023 was $562,900 while the benchmark value for the same condominium in May 2024 increased by 1.2 per cent to $569,500, up from the April value of $561,200.