Property Transfer Tax is one of the biggest, and most misunderstood, costs when buying a home in BC. In today’s episode, we break down: • How Property Transfer Tax is calculated • Which price thresholds really matter • Who qualifies for first-time buyer exemptions (and who doesn’t) • How couples and title structure affect exemptions • Common situations that unexpectedly trigger Property Transfer Tax We’ll also share what buyers, REALTORS®, and mortgage brokers should review before an offer is written to avoid surprises. Clear, practical guidance for buyers and homeowners in Greater Victoria. Hosted by Jane Johnston, Andrew Plank, and Jen Lowe.

🎙️ Wills & Estates in BC What Happens to Your House When You Die — and How to Make It Easier

On this episode, Realtors Jane Johnston, Andrew Plank, and Mortgage Broker, Jen Lowe are joined by Lawyer, Bhavi Tathgar from League and Williams Law for a clear, practical conversation about Wills, Estates, and real estate in British Columbia. We break down one of the most common — and least understood — questions families face: What actually happens to your house when you die in BC? This episode goes beyond theory and into real-world guidance, including: How property is handled after death in British Columbia. When probate is required (and when it may not be). The role and responsibilities of an executor. Common mistakes that delay or complicate estates. A step-by-step walkthrough of the probate process, explained in plain language Whether you own property, are planning your estate, or may one day act as an executor, this conversation is designed to reduce uncertainty, prevent stress, and help families plan with confidence. This is essential listening for homeowners, adult children supporting parents, and anyone who wants clarity around estate planning and real estate in BC.

Today on the 🎙️ Greater Victoria Real Estate Show | How BC Assessment, Appraisals & REALTOR® Value Really Work In today’s episode of the Greater Victoria Real Estate Show, we’re joined by Katie Snell, a professional real estate appraiser who previously worked with BC Assessment. This is an important conversation for homeowners, buyers, and sellers who are confused by why their BC Assessment value doesn’t match market value — and why that difference matters. Together, Jane Johnston, Andrew Plank, and Jen Lowe sit down with Katie to unpack:

• How BC Assessment values are calculated and what they are actually used for
• Why BC Assessment exists primarily for property tax determination
• How professional appraisals are prepared and when lenders rely on them
• How REALTOR® market evaluations differ — and why they reflect real buyer behaviour
• Why these three numbers often do not align
• Common misconceptions homeowners have about “value”
• How understanding the differences can protect you when buying or selling

If you’ve ever looked at your BC Assessment notice and wondered: Is my home really worth that? This episode will give you clarity.

As we close out 2025, it’s time to take a clear, grounded look at where the market stands — and where it may be headed next. Join Jane Johnston, Andrew Plank, and mortgage expert Jen Lowe for our end-of-year episode of the Greater Victoria Real Estate Show, where we break down the latest Bank of Canada rate announcement alongside a full year-end market wrap-up.

In this episode, we’ll cover:

• Greater Victoria real estate statistics up to December 11, 2025
•  Current fixed vs. variable mortgage rates
• The pros and cons of each rate option moving into 2026
• What needs to happen for rates to hold steady, rise, or decline
• Practical insights for buyers, sellers, and homeowners planning their next move.
  
  Whether you’re actively in the market or simply planning ahead, this episode is designed to give you clarity, context, and confidence as we head into the new year.
• 📺 Watch on YouTube 📱 Stream on Facebook 🎧 Listen wherever you get your podcasts

Every real estate transaction involves many parties working together. At the end of the day, you will probably be interacting with building inspectors, mortgage brokers, appraisers, landscapers, lawyers, stagers, contractors, and others. It's important to us that we ensure you have the best choice and also that there is no real or perceived conflict of interest in our recommendations. Today Jane, Jen, and Andrew discuss referral networks.

Down payment myths (what’s required vs. what people think is required) The real story on variable vs. fixed rates Refinancing misconceptions Mortgage insurance eligibility How the new 30-year amortization for first-time buyers has played out What the $1.5M insured mortgage limit means for buyers in Greater Victoria What to expect if you're buying, renewing, or refinancing in 2026 Whether you're planning a purchase, preparing for a renewal, or simply trying to make sense of this year’s mortgage changes, this episode cuts through the confusion so you can make confident, informed decisions heading into 2026.

📍 About the Greater Victoria Real Estate Show Hosted weekly by REALTORS® Jane Johnston & Andrew Plank, along with mortgage specialist Jen Lowe, the show breaks down real estate trends, lending updates, legal changes, and local Greater Victoria market conditions — all to help buyers, sellers, and homeowners stay educated and empowered.

Jane Johnston, REALTOR® | Briar Hill Group, RE/MAX Camosun 📧 [email protected] 📱 250-744-0775 IG: @realtyteacher_remax_victoria YouTube: @JaneJohnstonRealtor

Jen Lowe, Mortgage Specialist 📧 [email protected] 📱250-217-4925 IG: @jenlowemortgages

Andrew Plank, REALTOR® | Royal LePage Coast Capital 📧 [email protected] 📱250-360-6106 IG: @andrewplank YouTube: @AndrewPlankRealtor

Understanding condo documents is one of the most important steps in buying or selling a strata property in Greater Victoria. These documents reveal how the strata is operating, its financial health, upcoming repairs, the status of the depreciation report, and any potential concerns—from bylaw enforcement and noise complaints to insurance updates and overall risk. In today’s episode of the Greater Victoria Real Estate Show, Jen Lowe and Jane Johnston, REALTOR®, sit down with Ryan Stenquist from Condo Clear to break down what every buyer, seller, and REALTOR® needs to know. Condo Clear specializes in reviewing and summarizing strata documents for REALTORS® and buyers across British Columbia. They also provide province-wide strata education and consulting services for strata corporations, developers, and property management companies. Whether you’re navigating Form B’s, minutes, AGMs, or contingency funds, this episode will help you feel more confident and informed. 🔍 What you’ll learn:

• How to read strata documents with confidence
• Red flags buyers should watch for
• What a depreciation report tells you about future costs
• How Condo Clear supports REALTORS® and clients
• Why thorough document review protects your investment

Join Jane and Jen at 9:30 am for the monthly market update up to November 1, 2025! What's the market doing? Are we entering into more foreclosures? What areas are doing well? Which ones are languishing? It all depends on what you are selling (house, condo or townhome) and where. Come join us and find out details!!

Wanting to save on real estate commissions?! Will you pay less if you deal directly with a listing agent or buyers? Let’s look at the real pros and cons of working with a REALTOR® — so you can decide what’s right for you. Join us this morning as Jane and Jen discuss being represented or unrepresented by an agent.