January 2014, Market Analysis
I find that January in particular, & perhaps the first half of February, often carry forward the specifics of November/December of the previous year, when it comes to real estate activity. An overlap Winter Season rhythm, thus.
In our secondary home & increasingly seasonal marketplace, we now seem to be focused on a March Break to Canadian Thanksgiving (early October) timeline for viewings/sales. The busier months would perhaps be May, July, August, September in our particular discretionary region.
Economic global trends might make themselves more clearly felt by mid-February, too. It’s very difficult, at these opening days of January, 2014, to make any projections about real estate market outcomes for Salt Spring & the Southern Gulf Islands.
My decision this time, then, is to report in at month’s end, instead of at the very beginning.
During January, I will be reading various economic projections, local & global, & will be attending significant economic think-tanks, & will also be keeping in touch with real estate sales outcomes throughout the Gulf Islands & on Vancouver Island. A month of assessing….
On the Coast, the recent B.C. Ferries decision to both cut numbers of sailings/& to raise fares on some ferry routes, may have a substantial impact on the Gulf Islands. It’s a key issue for all coastal communities & local Chambers are connecting to deal with this…including Salt Spring’s Chamber.
Look forward to reporting in to you, at month’s end, with my various findings.
It does appear that secondary home markets are seeing a slow uptick in activity, after a good five years of inaction on the part of a buyer. Sales volume did improve throughout 2013. Price points were still mainly in the entry level residential category.
Is it a sustained growth pattern, though, & will it now encompass all property types & price categories? Will 2014 be the visible face of an authentic real estate recovery in our “by choice” Islands environment? More later!
We are so lucky on Salt Spring Island & on the other Gulf Islands to enjoy a temperate climate, with the ability to be self-sufficient, & yet with proximity to major centres…apart & yet connected. The definition of a pleasing 21st Century lifestyle?
If you are thinking of a property purchase on Salt Spring Island, or on another Gulf Island or on Vancouver Island, please contact me. I look forward to bringing my knowledge (of both inventory & of trends) & expertise (managing broker’s licence & strong negotiating skills) to your benefit. Call me, & discover the difference that does result in connections between a seller & a buyer. The successful outcomes for you, the client, are my motivation.
How may I help you to buy your special Island property?
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