Max Profit: Sell With James

According to the Victoria Real Estate Board (VREB) market survey from 2020-2024, showing how buyers in the Victoria area located properties, the following points illustrate where buyers came from, in order of popularity, with approximate percentages:

REALTOR® Auto Search/Web Site: Consistently over 50% (around 52-58%) of buyers surveyed used this method.

REALTOR®: Approximately 25-30% of buyers contacted a real estate agent directly.
REALTOR.ca: This website was used by roughly 25-30% of buyers.
Real Estate Sign: Around 10-12% of buyers noticed a sign.
Relative or Friend: Referrals accounted for roughly 2-3% of buyers.
Open Houses: Open houses attracted approximately 2-3% of buyers.
Victoria.ca: The VREB website was used by about 1-2% of buyers.
Other Web Site: Other online platforms accounted for roughly 2-4% of buyers.
Classified Ad: Less than 1% of buyers used classified ads.
Real Estate Tabloid: Similar to classified ads, less than 1% of buyers used real estate tabloids.
Other/Don't Know: A small fraction, around 2-4%, used other methods or were unsure.

Important Note: These percentages are approximations based on the visual representation in the chart. For precise figures, it's best to consult the original VREB survey data. Also, keep in mind that buyers may use multiple methods, so the percentages might not add up to exactly 100%.

Selling Your Home - Why it Pays to Use a REALTOR®

Before selling your home, you will need a clear understanding of the legal issues and potential pitfalls. One wrong action could result in a lot of cost and frustration, which is why it is essential to have a REALTOR® working with you, as he or she will make the sale of your home a successful and satisfying experience.

REALTORS® use the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) to give your home maximum exposure. MLS® is a computer-based system that relays valuable information about your home to hundreds of REALTORS® and potential homebuyers.

Setting a price for your home is an important but difficult process. Again, this is where the services of a REALTOR® prove invaluable. REALTORS® have the experience to help you understand how the market works and decide upon a realistic price that meets your goals. REALTORS® also pre-screen potential buyers to make sure only those who are serious and financially qualified view your home.

REALTORS® will also develop a marketing plan to help your property receive maximum exposure. This will likely include placing your home on the MLS® system and placing a "For Sale" sign on the front lawn. The plan will likely also include arranging open houses for other REALTORS® and potential buyers, and developing advertisements and feature sheets/mailers to market your home.

Once you have accepted an offer to buy your home, your REALTOR® will help ensure that all the proper paperwork is completed. He or she will also make sure that both parties meet the necessary conditions outlined in the agreement.

When you work with a REALTOR® you will likely get a better price for your home than if you try to sell it yourself. Apart from the financial benefits, however, there is an extra measure of comfort and security that comes from having a REALTOR® on your side. Remember that REALTORS® are governed by a code of ethics and standards of business practice. They have also been trained and licensed under the provincial Real Estate Services Act to assist in transactions involving real property. When it comes to buying or selling property, using a REALTOR® just makes sense.

Source: Victoria Real Estate Board 2015

James Smith is a dedicated and experienced realtor specializing in residential real estate in Victoria, BC. He provides personalized service and expert guidance to buyers and sellers, navigating the Victoria real estate market with integrity and a focus on client satisfaction. Whether you're searching for your dream home or looking to sell your property for top value, James is committed to helping you achieve your real estate goals. James has been a licensed Realtor since 2005.