The Ferns is a new, purpose-built, 88 unit affordable rental housing development, located in the vibrant Burnside-Gorge neighbourhood of Victoria, BC. 70% of the units in this new development are subsidized units and 30% are affordable market units. The property is centrally located near transit, shopping, and dining options, and just minutes from some of the city's best parks, the Galloping Goose Trail, and the downtown core—an ideal location for those who appreciate an active, urban lifestyle. With a walk score of 90 and a transit score of 80, most daily errands can be accomplished on foot or by public transit, adding convenience to everyday living.

This mixed-use development features two buildings with an energy-efficient design, underground secure parking, pet-friendly units, and a beautifully landscaped shared community courtyard. Residents have access to storage lockers (limited availability), secure bike storage, and EV chargers— ideal for those who prioritize sustainability and convenience. The building also houses an on-site daycare operated by the Burnside Gorge Community Association, providing much-needed childcare spaces for the local community.

Rental rates for units in this building are a combination of affordable market and subsidized rates. The type of rental you may be eligible for depends on your household income. See below for eligibility requirements, as set by BC Housing, to determine what application to complete.

How to Apply for an Affordable Market Rental Unit

The Ferns development has two and three bedroom affordable market rental units available. Monthly rates are $2250/month for a two-bedroom unit and $3,000/month for a three-bedroom unit.

Affordable market rental units are for people who have a low-to-moderate income, but may not be eligible for subsidized housing. An applicant must fall within the income levels as outlined below.

Total gross annual household income must fall within the following income figures, as determined by BC Housing:

  •$65,001 to $134,140 for a 2-bedroom suite
  •$82,001 to $134,140 for a 3-bedroom suite

Interested in applying for a unit at The Ferns? Click on the button below to apply directly to Pacifica Housing now.

How to Apply for a Subsidized Rental Unit

To be eligible for subsidized housing, an applicant’s gross household income must be below certain income limits, as established by the Housing Income Limits (HILs). HILs is set by BC Housing and represents the maximum annual income, before taxes, that a household can earn for suitable housing in their location.

If you live in BC, have a low income and meet eligibility criteria, you may qualify for subsidized housing. Subsidized housing is long-term housing for people who permanently reside in British Columbia. Rental fees are calculated on a rent geared to income basis (30% of household total gross income, subject to minimum rent based on # of people). You may be eligible for subsidized housing if you can live independently and meet the household, residency, income and assets criteria.

In Greater Victoria, you are eligible for subsidized housing if your annual household income (not including GST and Child Tax Credit) is at or below:

  • $50,000 for a studio or 1 bedroom unit
  • $65,000 for a 2 bedroom unit
  • $82,000 for a 3 bedroom unit

Interested in applying for a subsidized unit at The Ferns? Click on the button below to apply directly to Pacifica Housing now.

You must apply to the BC Housing Registry to be considered for a subsidized rental unit in this building. All prospective subsidized housing tenants must have a live file with the BC Housing Registry. There are two ways to apply:

  • Apply online or
  • Download and print the PDF Application Form
  • Printed forms can be mailed to the Housing Registry at 301 - 3440 Douglas St., Victoria, BC V8Z 3L5.

Additional Information/Links on Subsidized Housing in BC
  • Are you eligible?
  • Apply online
  • About subsidized housing

Subsidized and Affordable Market Housing

Number of Units: 88
Property Info: Studio, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom units
Suitability: Families, individuals, person with disabilities
Wheelchair Accessible: 4 units (2 one bedroom, 2 two bedroom units)
Pet friendly: Yes (subject to approval). Please see our Pet Policy for more information.

Questions

Please direct all questions via email to rentals@pacificahousing.ca.

Photo Gallery

• Studio/1-bath
• 1-Bed/1-bath
• 2-Bed/1-bath
• 3-Bed/2-bath

Available Unit Types

• Studio/1-bath: 8 units; average size: 385 sq. ft.
• 1-Bed/1-bath: 34 units, including 2 accessible units; average size: 575 sq. ft.
• 2-Bed/1-bath: 24 units, including 2 accessible units; average size: 850 sq. ft.
• 2-Bed + Den/1-bath: 2 units; average size: 1050 sq. ft.
• 3-Bed/2-bath: 20 units; average size: 1050 sq. ft.

Building Features:

• 88 rental units that vary in size from studio to three bedrooms
• All studio units have microwaves
• All three bedroom units have ensuite bathrooms attached to the primary bedroom
• Secured underground parking available
• Bike storage secured in the underground parking lot
• Elevators
• Storage lockers for affordable market units
• Dishwasher (except for studio units)
• Shared laundry on-site and in-suite laundry hook ups in every unit
• Close to bus routes, amenities, and the Galloping Goose bike and walking trail
• Courtyard and green space with permanent furniture for outdoor lounging
• Modern energy efficient design for reduced utility costs
• EV chargers on-site
• Units are adaptable

Pets allowed subject to approval. Please see our Pet Policy for more information.