Let's Talk

Get in touch

Buying, Selling, or Investing? just have some questions? Just ask! We're here to help.

Contact Agent
Agent Photo

Personal Real Estate Corporation

Marina and coastal mountains on Vancouver Island, British Columbia

Vancouver Island Real Estate Insights

Vancouver Island Real Estate News & Advice

Local market insights, practical buying and selling guidance, and informed perspectives on real estate and life across Central Vancouver Island.

Practical, Local Guidance

Clear information for your next real estate decision

Explore articles and conversations covering Vancouver Island property, buying and selling strategies, downsizing, retirement and the local considerations that can affect your plans.

Market Insights

Local conditions, property trends and context behind the numbers.

Buying a Home

Practical guidance for evaluating properties and planning a purchase.

Selling & Downsizing

Preparation, strategy and support for a well-managed transition.

Vancouver Island Living

Communities, relocation and the realities of living on the Island.

From the Blog

Latest Insights

Could a Home with Suite Potential Be the Opportunity You’re Missing?

Posted on Aug 08, 2026 in Buying

For many Vancouver Island buyers, a secondary suite can make homeownership more manageable. The rental income may help with monthly expenses, or the space could provide a private place for an adult child, parent or extended family member.

Most buyers begin by searching for homes that already have a suite. That is the obvious approach, but it can als...

Read More

Port Alberni Chosen for HGTV’s Home Town Takeover Canada

Posted on Aug 01, 2026 in Vancouver Island Communities


Port Alberni has been selected as the featured community for the first season of Home Town Takeover Canada. Hosted by Bryan and Sarah Baeumler, the HGTV series will renovate selected homes, businesses and community spaces before premiering in fall 2026.

Production began on June 10, 2026, and is scheduled to continue through August 28. The completed...

Read More

Helping a Parent Downsize on Vancouver Island: A Realtor's Guide for Adult Children

Posted on May 02, 2026 in Selling & Downsizing


Most families on Vancouver Island don't have one downsizing conversation. They have ten. And the first nine are the same conversation, repeated over months, going nowhere — usually because the adult children think they're talking about a house, and the parent knows they're talking about something else. I'm Denise Hodgins, a REALTOR® here in the Oc...

Read More

From Saving to Spending | Island Living Today Talk...

Posted on Feb 13, 2026


From Saving to Spending | Island Living Today Talk with Melissa McGuire, CFP®, BM, BA, RIS


Excited for retirement but feeling unsure about your finances? Certified Financial Planner Melissa McGuire from Raymond James is here to help you navigate the transition with confidence!
 
Retirement is a time to enjoy the life you've worked so hard for, but shif...

Read More

Avoid These Two Big Mortgage Mistakes

Posted on Feb 04, 2026


We all know that searching for and viewing potential homes is the fun part of the home-buying process. The not-so-fun part? The mortgage.But if you don’t pay attention to the details, your mortgage can end up dragging down the enjoyment of your new home and cause some major regrets. Here are a few mistakes to avoid to ensure that you love your mort...

Read More

Fall Maintenance Tips

Posted on Oct 03, 2025


Summer is coming to an end and fall is almost upon us. If you are a new homeowner, fall home maintenance may be something your landlord handled. If you are a seasoned homeowner – you still my appreciate a few reminder tips that will help you lower your utility bills and protect your investment.

TUNE UP YOUR HEATING SYSTEM Invite your friendly HVAC t...

Read More