Home sales registered on the MLS® in the Metro Vancouver* for the month of March were the lowest going back to 2019 for the same month, while active listings continue to their upward trend.

The Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR) reports that residential sales in the region totalled 2,091 in March 2025, a 13.4 per cent decrease from the 2,415 sales recorded in March 2024. This was 36.8 per cent below the 10-year seasonal average (3,308).

"If we can set aside the political and economic uncertainty tied to the new U.S. administration for a moment, buyers in Metro Vancouver haven’t seen market conditions this favourable in years. Prices have eased from recent highs, mortgage rates are among the lowest we’ve seen in years, and there are more active listings on the MLS® than we’ve seen in almost a decade. Sellers appear ready to engage — but so far, buyers have not shown up in the numbers we typically see at this time of year."Andrew Lis, GVR director of economics and data analytics

There were 6,455 detached, attached and apartment properties newly listed for sale on the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in Metro Vancouver in March 2025. This represents a 29 per cent increase compared to the 5,002 properties listed in March 2024. This was 15.8 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average (5,572).

The total number of properties currently listed for sale on the MLS® system in Metro Vancouver is 14,546, a 37.9 per cent increase compared to March 2024 (10,552). This is 44.9 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average (10,038).

Across all detached, attached and apartment property types, the sales-to-active listings ratio for March 2025 is 14.9 per cent. By property type, the ratio is 10.3 per cent for detached homes, 21.5 per cent for attached, and 16.2 per cent for apartments.

Analysis of the historical data suggests downward pressure on home prices occurs when the ratio dips below 12 per cent for a sustained period, while home prices often experience upward pressure when it surpasses 20 per cent over several months.

“The current market bares resemblance to early 2023 where price trends were generally flat, and sales started the year off slowly before gaining momentum in the spring and summer months,” Lis said.

“While market conditions overall remain balanced, it’s worth noting that the attached segment continues teetering on the threshold of a sellers’ market as a result of a chronic undersupply, with only about 2,200 active listings available for prospective buyers throughout the entire region.”

The MLS® Home Price Index composite benchmark price for all residential properties in Metro Vancouver is currently $1,190,900. This represents a 0.6 per cent decrease over March 2024 and a 0.5 per cent increase compared to February 2025.

Sales of detached homes in March 2025 reached 527, a 24.1 per cent decrease from the 694 detached sales recorded in March 2024. The benchmark price for a detached home is $2,034,400. This represents a 0.8 per cent increase from March 2024 and a 0.4 per cent increase compared to February 2025.

Sales of apartment homes reached 1,084 in March 2025, a 10.2 per cent decrease compared to the 1,207 sales in March 2024. The benchmark price of an apartment home is $767,300. This represents a 0.9 per cent decrease from March 2024 and a 1 per cent increase compared to February 2025.

Attached home sales in March 2025 totalled 472, a 4.6 per cent decrease compared to the 495 sales in March 2024. The benchmark price of a townhouse is $1,113,100. This represents a 0.8 per cent decrease from March 2024 and a 0.2 per cent increase compared to February 2025.

Tariffs, economic uncertainty stall spring market in the Fraser Valley

March home sales in the Fraser Valley remained nearly 50 per cent below the 10-year average — making for the slowest start to the spring market in more than 15 years.

The Fraser Valley Real Estate Board recorded 1,036 sales in March, up 13 per cent from February, but still 26 per cent below sales recorded this time last year.

Following a decline on the Board’s Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in February, new listings increased 22 per cent in March to 3,800. Overall inventory is at a decade-high level, with 9,219 active listings, 49 per cent above March 2024 and 59 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average.

“If not for the economic uncertainty driven largely by U.S. tariffs, we’d likely be seeing a typical strong spring market in the Fraser Valley,” said Tore Jacobsen, Chair of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board.

“Instead, we’re seeing a disconnect as sellers remain hesitant to lower their prices beyond a certain threshold, while buyers, facing tighter financing conditions, are either unable or unwilling to meet it. The resulting inertia is keeping sales low.”

The overall sales-to-active listings ratio continues to signal a buyer’s market in the Fraser Valley, with a ratio of 11 per cent. The market is considered to be balanced when the ratio is between 12 per cent and 20 per cent.

“Currently, uncertainty is impacting all corners of the real estate and development sector,” said Baldev Gill, CEO of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board, “and as a result, we are seeing markedly lower seasonal activity. As we navigate these challenges, your local REALTOR® — with firsthand market insight and access to the latest data — is a valuable resource to help guide you through the critical timing decisions for buying or selling.”

Across the Fraser Valley in March, the average number of days to sell a single-family detached home was 31, while for a condo it was slightly higher at 33 days. Townhomes took, on average, 27 days to sell.

The composite Benchmark price in the Fraser Valley increased just under half a per cent in March, up 0.4 per cent to $974,400.

If you are interested in learning about the specific stats of a neighborhood, reach out to Iwa. They can provide insights on areas, property types, or trends you can leverage in 2025.

After a 46 per cent year-over-year increase of new listings in January, the number of newly listed properties on the MLS® in Metro Vancouver* rose more moderately in February helping keep market conditions in balanced territory.

The Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR) reports that residential sales in the region totalled 1,827 on Metro Vancouver’s Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in February 2025, an 11.7 per cent decrease from the 2,070 sales recorded in February 2024. This total was 28.9 per cent below the 10-year seasonal average (2,571).

“After the rush of new listings in January, home sales and new listings in February were closer to historical averages, which has positioned the overall market in balanced conditions,” Andrew Lis, GVR’s director of economics and data analytics said. “With a potential Bank of Canada rate cut on the table for mid-March, homebuyers may find slightly improved borrowing conditions while enjoying the largest selection of homes on the market since pre-pandemic times.”

There were 5,057 detached, attached and apartment properties newly listed for sale on the MLS® in February 2025. This represents a 10.9 per cent increase compared to the 4,560 properties listed in February 2024. This was 11.6 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average (4,530).

The total number of properties currently listed for sale on the MLS® system in Metro Vancouver is 12,744, a 32.3 per cent increase compared to February 2024 (9,634). This is also 36.4 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average (9,341).

Across all detached, attached and apartment property types, the sales-to-active listings ratio for February 2025 is 14.8 per cent. By property type, the ratio is 10.7 per cent for detached homes, 18.5 per cent for attached, and 16.8 per cent for apartments.

Analysis of the historical data suggests downward pressure on home prices occurs when the ratio dips below 12 per cent for a sustained period, while home prices often experience upward pressure when it surpasses 20 per cent over several months.

“Balanced market conditions typically bring a flatter price trajectory, and we’ve seen prices across all segments remain in a holding pattern for the past few months,” Lis said. “But with the active spring season just around the corner, it will be interesting to see whether buyers take advantage of some of the most favorable market conditions seen in years, and whether sellers change their willingness to bring their properties to market.”

The MLS® Home Price Index composite benchmark price for all residential properties in Metro Vancouver is currently $1,169,100. This represents a 1.1 per cent decrease over February 2024 and a 0.3 per cent decrease compared to January 2025.

Sales of detached homes in February 2025 reached 477, a 14.8 per cent decrease from the 560 detached sales recorded in February 2024. The benchmark price for a detached home is $2,006,100. This represents a 1.8 per cent increase from February 2024 and is virtually unchanged compared to January 2025.

Sales of apartment homes reached 976 in February 2025, a 10.6 per cent decrease compared to the 1,092 sales in February 2024. The benchmark price of an apartment home is $747,500. This represents a 2.8 per cent decrease from February 2024 and a 0.1 per cent decrease compared to January 2025.

Attached home sales in February 2025 totalled 359, a 10.9 per cent decrease compared to the 403 sales in February 2024. The benchmark price of a townhouse is $1,087,100. This represents a 1.2 per cent decrease from February 2024 and a 1.7 per cent decrease compared to January 2025.

Buyers gaining upper hand in Fraser Valley real estate market

SURREY, BC – For the first time in four months, home sales in the Fraser Valley have increased as buyers

capitalize on more selection and weakening prices.

The Fraser Valley Real Estate Board recorded 920 sales in February, up 13 per cent from January, but 26 per

cent below sales recorded in February 2024.

Despite a nine per cent drop in newly listed homes on the Board’s Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®), new

listings remained 14 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average, at 3,121. Overall inventory remains high,

at 8,070 active listings, 45 per cent above February 2024 and 55 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average.

The overall sales-to-active listings ratio continues to signal a buyer’s market in the Fraser Valley, with a

ratio of 11 per cent. The market is considered to be balanced with the ratio is between 12 per cent and 20

per cent.

“The combination of inventory accumulation and softening prices is providing buyers with increased

leverage, especially in the single-family detached category,” said Baldev Gill, CEO of the Fraser Valley Real

Estate Board. “Should this pattern persist, we could see a further shift toward a buyer's market, particularly

given the ongoing economic uncertainties and impending tariffs. With ample selection, buyers have

flexibility and time on their side to explore their options before making a decision.”

Homes across the Fraser Valley sold in fewer days in February compared to January. The average number of days to sell a single-family detached home was 39, while for a condo it was 36. Townhomes took, on average, 32 days to sell.

The composite Benchmark price in the Fraser Valley dipped less than a quarter of a per cent in February, down 0.2 per cent to $962,500.

Home sales registered in the MLS® in the Metro Vancouver market rose 28 percent year-over-year in November, building on the momentum of the 30 percent year-over-year increase seen in October.

The Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR) reports that residential sales in the region totalled 2,181 in November 2024, a 28.1 per cent increase from the 1,702 sales recorded in November 2023. This was 12.8 per cent below the 10-year seasonal average (2,500).

“When we saw demand pick up in October, there was still a question over whether it was a blip in the data or the start of an emerging trend,” Andrew Lis, GVR’s director of economics and data analytics said. “While the November market isn’t quite a Cyber Monday door- crasher, buyers are continuing to take advantage of the relatively balanced market conditions while they last.”

There were 3,725 detached, attached and apartment properties newly listed for sale on the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in Metro Vancouver in November 2024. This represents a 10.6 per cent increase compared to the 3,369 properties listed in November 2023. This was 5.4 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average (3,535).

The total number of properties currently listed for sale on the MLS® system in Metro Vancouver is 13,245, a 21.2 per cent increase compared to November 2023 (10,931). This is 26.1 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average (10,502).

Across all detached, attached and apartment property types, the sales-to-active listings ratio for November 2024 is 17.1 per cent. By property type, the ratio is 12.7 per cent for detached homes, 23.1 per cent for attached, and 18.7 per cent for apartments.

Analysis of the historical data suggests downward pressure on home prices occurs when the ratio dips below 12 per cent for a sustained period, while home prices often experience upward pressure when it surpasses 20 per cent over several months.

“Although demand has increased as we head into year-end, the number of newly listed properties coming to market in November remained sufficient to keep prices steady across all segments,” Lis said. “But as we move into the New Year, if the strength in demand continues at the current pace, and the pace of newly listed properties coming to market doesn’t keep up, it may not be long until we see the return of upward pressure on prices.”

The MLS® Home Price Index composite benchmark price for all residential properties in Metro Vancouver is currently $1,172,100. This represents a 0.9 per cent decrease over November 2023 and nearly unchanged compared to October 2024.

Sales of detached homes in November 2024 reached 626, a 19.7 per cent increase from the 523 detached sales recorded in November 2023. The benchmark price for a detached home is $1,997,400. This represents a one per cent increase from November 2023 and a 0.3 per cent decrease compared to October 2024.

Sales of apartment homes reached 1,089 in November 2024, a 28.1 per cent increase compared to the 850 sales in November 2023. The benchmark price of an apartment home is $752,800. This represents a 1.2 per cent decrease from November 2023 and a 0.6 per cent decrease compared to October 2024.

Attached home sales in November 2024 totalled 451, a 42.7 per cent increase compared to the 316 sales in November 2023. The benchmark price of a townhouse is $1,117,600. This represents a 1.8 per cent increase from November 2023 and a 0.8 per cent increase compared to October 2024.

Fraser Valley home sales returning to seasonal norms in November after October surge

Following a healthy boost in sales in October, Fraser Valley home sales dropped in November as slower seasonal buying trends set in amid balanced market conditions.

The Fraser Valley Real Estate Board recorded 1,136 sales in November, down 15 per cent from October, but 28 per cent above November 2023 sales.

“Buying and selling activity is typically quiet at this time of year,” said Jeff Chadha, Chair of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board. “But it’s worth noting that November 2024 sales are higher than they’ve been compared to the past two Novembers — a sign that overall activity is picking up in the Fraser Valley and with it, growing buyer confidence.”

A decline in new listings chipped away at overall inventory in November, with active listings declining eight per cent to 8,125. Overall inventory, however, remains at a 10-year seasonal high and 30 per cent above November 2023 levels. New listings dropped 26 per cent in November to 2,367, but remain above the 10- year seasonal average and above levels from November 2023. The Fraser Valley remains in a balanced market with a sales-to-active ratio of 14 per cent. The market is considered to be balanced when the ratio is between 12 per cent and 20 per cent.

“With seasonality expected to slow sales activity towards year-end, we are optimistic that the new mortgage lending guidelines, which come into effect on December 15, will slowly start to work their way into the market,” said Baldev Gill, CEO of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board. “Longer amortization periods and lower minimum down payments should help more buyers who want to get into the market in 2025.”

Across the Fraser Valley in November, the average number of days to sell a single-family detached home was 43, while for a condo it was 36. Townhomes took, on average, 33 days to sell.

Benchmark prices in the Fraser Valley dipped for the eighth straight month in November, with the composite Benchmark price down 0.2 per cent to $969,500.

If you are interested in learning about the specific stats of a neighborhood, reach out to Iwa. They can provide insights on areas, property types, or trends you can leverage in 2024.

After months of tracking approximately twenty per cent below the ten-year seasonal average, Metro Vancouver1 home sales surged more than 30 per cent year-over-year in October.

The Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR) reports that residential sales2 registered on the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in the region totalled 2,632 in October 2024, a 31.9 per cent increase from the 1,996 sales recorded in October 2023. This was 5.5 per cent below the 10- year seasonal average (2,784).

“Typically, reductions to mortgage rates boost demand, and the strong October sales numbers suggest buyers may finally be responding to lower borrowing costs after waiting on the sidelines for months,” Andrew Lis, GVR’s director of economics and data analytics said. “To some market watchers, this rebound may come as a surprise, but with four consecutive rate cuts from the Bank of Canada – and more likely to come on the horizon – it was only a matter of time until signs of renewed strength in demand showed up.”

There were 5,452 detached, attached and apartment properties newly listed for sale on the MLS® in Metro Vancouver in October 2024. This represents a 16.9 per cent increase compared to the 4,664 properties listed in October 2023. This was 20 per cent above the 10- year seasonal average (4,545).

The total number of properties currently listed for sale on the MLS® system in Metro Vancouver is 14,477, a 24.8 per cent increase compared to October 2023 (11,599). This total is also 26.2 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average (11,475).

Across all detached, attached and apartment property types, the sales-to-active listings ratio for October 2024 is 18.8 per cent. By property type, the ratio is 13.4 per cent for detached homes, 22.5 per cent for attached, and 22.2 per cent for apartments.

Analysis of the historical data suggests downward pressure on home prices occurs when the ratio dips below 12 per cent for a sustained period, while home prices often experience upward pressure when it surpasses 20 per cent over several months.

“While the strength in October's numbers is encouraging, one data point does not make a trend," Lis said. "Recent data shows that market conditions have been decidedly balanced, with prices easing over the past few months. With the recent uptick in sales however, the attached and apartment segments are now tilting toward a seller’s market with the detached segment not far behind, suggesting the recent period of price moderation may be nearing an end."

The MLS® Home Price Index composite benchmark price for all residential properties in Metro Vancouver is $1,172,200. This represents a 1.9 per cent decrease over October 2023 and a 0.6 per cent decrease compared to September 2024.

Sales of detached homes in October 2024 reached 724, a 25.5 per cent increase from the 577 detached sales recorded in October 2023. The benchmark price for a detached home is $2,002,900. This represents a 0.3 per cent increase from October 2023 and a 1 per cent decrease compared to September 2024.

Sales of apartment homes reached 1,393 in October 2024, a 33.4 per cent increase compared to the 1,044 sales in October 2023. The benchmark price of an apartment home is $757,200. This represents a 1.6 per cent decrease from October 2023 and a 0.6 per cent decrease compared to September 2024.

Attached home sales in October 2024 totalled 501, a 40.7 per cent increase compared to the 356 sales in October 2023. The benchmark price of a townhouse is $1,108,800. This represents a 0.4 per cent increase from October 2023 and a 0.9 per cent increase compared to September 2024.

Rising home sales a sign of market shift in the Fraser Valley?

Home sales in the Fraser Valley increased for the first time in five months following a sizable interest rate cut by the Bank of Canada in October.

The Fraser Valley Real Estate Board recorded 1,330 sales in October, up 35 per cent from September, and 37 per cent year-over-year.

“After waiting it out on the sidelines for a number of months, buyers seem to be finally responding to the series of successive rate cuts by the Bank of Canada,” said Jeff Chadha, Chair of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board. “Whether this is an indication of further sales trends, remains to be seen, especially as the feds eye a possible additional cut before year-end.”

New listings declined in October, down 5 per cent to 3,194, but increased 26 per cent year-over-year. Overall inventory dipped in October to 8,799, down three per cent from September, but up 34 per cent over last year. Rising sales and steady inventory levels have the Fraser Valley in a balanced market with a sales-to-active ratio of 15 per cent. The market is considered to be balanced when the ratio is between 12 per cent and 20 per cent.

“October’s healthy sales boost is a welcome development for buyers and sellers alike,” said Baldev Gill, CEO of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board. “The coming weeks and months will shed more light on whether buyer optimism has returned now that the cycle of interest rate cuts is in full swing.”

Across the Fraser Valley in October, the average number of days to sell a single-family detached home was 34, while for a condo it was 32. Townhomes took, on average, 29 days to sell.

Benchmark prices in the Fraser Valley dipped for the seventh straight month in October, with the composite Benchmark price down 0.7 per cent to $971,700.

If you are interested in learning about the specific stats of a neighborhood, reach out to Iwa. They can provide insights on areas, property types, or trends you can leverage in 2024.

Home sales registered on the MLS® in Metro Vancouver1 declined 3.8 per cent year over year in September, suggesting recent reductions in borrowing costs are having a limited effect in spurring demand so far.

Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR)2 reports that residential sales in the region totalled 1,852 in September 2024, a 3.8 per cent decrease from the 1,926 sales recorded in September 2023. This was 26 per cent below the 10-year seasonal average (2,502).

"Real estate watchers have been monitoring the data for signs of renewed strength in demand in response to recent mortgage rate reductions, but the September figures don’t offer the signal that many are watching for.

Sales continue trending roughly 25 per cent below the ten-year seasonal average in the region, which, believe it or not, is a trend that has been in place for a few years now. With the September data, sales are now tracking slightly below our forecast however, but we remain optimistic sales will still end 2024 higher than 2023."

There were 6,144 detached, attached and apartment properties newly listed for sale on the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in Metro Vancouver in September 2024. This represents a 12.8 per cent increase compared to the 5,446 properties listed in September 2023. This was also 16.7 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average (5,266).

The total number of properties currently listed for sale on the MLS® system in Metro Vancouver is 14,932, a 31.2 per cent increase compared to September 2023 (11,382). This is 24.2 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average (12,027).

Across all detached, attached and apartment property types, the sales-to-active listings ratio for September 2024 is 12.8 per cent. By property type, the ratio is 9.1 per cent for detached homes, 16.9 per cent for attached, and 14.6 per cent for apartments.

Analysis of the historical data suggests downward pressure on home prices occurs when the ratio dips below 12 per cent for a sustained period, while home prices often experience upward pressure when it surpasses 20 per cent over several months.

“With some buyers choosing to stay on the sidelines, inventory levels have sustained the healthy gains achieved over the course of this year, providing much more selection to anyone searching for a home,” Lis said.

With all this choice available, prices have trended sideways for the past few months. The September figures, however, are now showing modest declines across all segments on a month over month basis. This downward pressure on prices is a result of sales not keeping pace with the number of newly listed properties coming to market, which has now put the overall market on the cusp of a buyers’ market. With two more policy rate decisions to go this year, and all signs pointing to further reductions, it’s not inconceivable that demand may still pick up later this fall should buyers step off the sidelines.”

The MLS® Home Price Index composite benchmark price for all residential properties in Metro Vancouver is currently $1,179,700. This represents a 1.8 per cent decrease over September 2023 and a 1.4 per cent decrease compared to August 2024.

Sales of detached homes in September 2024 reached 516, a 9.8 per cent decrease from the 572 detached sales recorded in September 2023. The benchmark price for a detached home is $2,022,200. This represents a 0.5 per cent increase from September 2023 and a 1.3 per cent decrease compared to August 2024.

Sales of apartment homes reached 940 in September 2024, a 4.9 per cent decrease compared to the 988 sales in September 2023. The benchmark price of an apartment home is $762,000. This represents a 0.8 per cent decrease from September 2023 and a 0.8 per cent decrease compared to August 2024.

Attached home sales in September 2024 totalled 378, a 7.4 per cent increase compared to the 352 sales in September 2023. The benchmark price of a townhouse is $1,099,200. This represents a 0.5 per cent decrease from September 2023 and a 1.8 per cent decrease compared to August 2024.

Sluggish sales and rising inventories see Fraser Valley moving toward a buyer’s market

SURREY, BC – With active inventories hitting levels not seen in 10 years and sales 30 per cent below the 10- year average, Fraser Valley real estate is building towards a buyer’s market if sales continue to lag.

The Fraser Valley Real Estate Board recorded 982 sales in September, down by eight per cent over August and by more than 10 per cent over September 2023. Again, seasonally adjusted sales were the second slowest in a decade in the Fraser Valley.

“With three rate cuts already and more expected before the end of the year, buyers are watching the market closely to time their purchasing decisions,” said Jeff Chadha, Chair of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board. “The current conditions should favour buyers, particularly in the detached market, however until we start to see some movement in asking prices, properties will continue to sit on the market for extended periods as both buyers and sellers await the next rate announcement.”

New listings rose in September, up 21 per cent to 3,352, an increase of 17 per cent year-over-year. Overall inventory increased five per cent from August to September to 9,045, up 39 per cent over last year. The combination of declining sales and rising inventories has helped to create balanced, and in some cases, buyers’, market conditions in the Fraser Valley.

“We know the demand is there among Fraser Valley buyers,” said Baldev Gill, CEO of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board. “After months on the sidelines, buyers want to get into the market but many also need to sell before they can buy. When you factor in affordability challenges and the anticipation of more interest rate cuts, we are seeing persistent weakness in the market. In conditions like these, we encourage buyers and sellers alike to talk to their REALTOR® to assess the risks and opportunities before making a decision.”

Across the Fraser Valley in September, the average number of days to sell a single-family detached home was 35, while for a condo it was 37. Townhomes took, on average, 30 days to sell.

Benchmark prices in the Fraser Valley dipped again in September, with the composite Benchmark price down 1.4 per cent to $978,800.

If you are interested in learning about the specific stats of a neighborhood, reach out to Iwa. They can provide insights on areas, property types, or trends you can leverage in 2024.

Home sales registered on the MLS® in Metro Vancouver1 remained below their ten-year seasonal averages in August as summer holidays come to a close.

Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR)2 reports that residential sales in the region totalled 1,904 in August 2024, a 17.1 per cent decrease from the 2,296 sales recorded in August 2023. This total was also 26 per cent below the 10-year seasonal average (2,572).

"From a seasonal perspective, August is typically a slower month for sales than June or July. In this respect, this August has been no different. With that said, sales remain in a holding pattern, trending roughly 20 per cent below their 10-year seasonal average, which suggests buyers are still feeling the pinch of higher borrowing costs, despite two recent quarter percentage point reductions to the policy rate this summer."Andrew Lis, GVR director of economics and data analytics

There were 4,109 detached, attached and apartment properties newly listed for sale on the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in Metro Vancouver in August 2024. This represents a 4.2 per cent increase compared to the 3,943 properties listed in August 2023. This total was 1.7 per cent below the 10-year seasonal average (4,179).

The total number of properties currently listed for sale on the MLS® system in Metro Vancouver is 13,812, a 37 per cent increase compared to August 2023 (10,082). This total is also 20.8 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average (11,432).

Across all detached, attached and apartment property types, the sales-to-active listings ratio for August 2024 is 14.3 per cent. By property type, the ratio is 9.6 per cent for detached homes, 18 per cent for attached, and 17.2 per cent for apartments.

Analysis of the historical data suggests downward pressure on home prices occurs when the ratio dips below 12 per cent for a sustained period, while home prices often experience upward pressure when it surpasses 20 per cent over several months.

“Buyers’ hesitancy to enter the market, paired with new listing activity on the part of sellers that is in line with historical averages, has allowed inventory to accumulate for a number of months and has moved the market firmly into balanced conditions,” Lis said.

“With the Bank of Canada’s decision to reduce the policy rate today by another quarter percentage point, and with September being a month that typically sees an increase in sales from a seasonal perspective, the fall market is set up to bring more buyers off the sidelines. We will watch the upcoming September data to see whether they decide to show up.” 

The MLS® Home Price Index composite benchmark price for all residential properties in Metro Vancouver is currently $1,195,900. This represents a 0.9 per cent decrease over August 2023 and a 0.13 per cent decrease compared to July 2024.

Sales of detached homes in August 2024 reached 509, a 13.9 per cent decrease from the 591 detached sales recorded in August 2023. The benchmark price for a detached home is $2,048,400. This represents a 1.8 per cent increase from August 2023 and a 0.1 per cent decrease compared to July 2024.

Sales of apartment homes reached 1,012 in August 2024, a 20.3 per cent decrease compared to the 1,270 sales in August 2023. The benchmark price of an apartment home is $768,200. This represents a 0.1 per cent decrease from August 2023 and unchanged compared to July 2024.

Attached home sales in August 2024 totalled 370, a 12.3 per cent decrease compared to the 422 sales in August 2023. The benchmark price of a townhouse is $1,119,300. This represents a 0.8 per cent increase from August 2023 and a 0.5 per cent decrease compared to July 2024.

Two rate cuts not enough to ignite summer home sales in the Fraser Valley

SURREY, BC – The Fraser Valley residential resale market slowed again in August, as homebuyers continue to face affordability challenges.

The Fraser Valley Real Estate Board recorded 1,067 sales in August, down by 13 per cent over last month and by 30 per cent over the 10-year seasonal average. August sales were the second slowest seasonally adjusted sales in a decade.

Inventory levels in the Fraser Valley dipped slightly in August with active listings at 8,626, down one per cent from July, but 37 per cent higher than August 2023.

“Despite two policy rate cuts by the Bank of Canada, buyers are still feeling the squeeze of overall affordability challenges in BC,” said Jeff Chadha, Chair of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board. “With prices for single-family homes, townhouses and condos holding relatively flat year-over-year, many continue to face challenges buying their first home or moving up in the market, as reflected in seasonally slow August sales.”

New listings dropped nearly 20 per cent in August, to 2,778. With a sales-to-active listings ratio of 12 per cent, overall market conditions are just shy of a buyer’s market. The market is considered balanced when the ratio is between 12 per cent and 20 per cent. The last time the Fraser Valley dipped into buyer’s market territory was spring 2020.

“Buyers continue to wait on the sidelines in anticipation of more cuts to the Bank of Canada’s policy rate,” said FVREB CEO Baldev Gill. “However, we encourage anyone looking to get into the market to speak with their REALTOR® and lending professional to fully understand where interest rates may be heading in the coming months to determine the optimal long-term strategy.”

Across the Fraser Valley in August, the average number of days to sell a single-family detached home was 33, while for a condo it was 32. Townhomes took, on average, 28 days to sell.

Benchmark prices in the Fraser Valley dipped again in August, with the composite Benchmark price at $992,800.

If you are interested in learning about the specific stats of a neighborhood, reach out to Iwa. They can provide insights on areas, property types, or trends you can leverage in 2024.

Newly listed properties registered on the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) rose nearly twenty per cent year over year in July, helping to sustain a healthy level of inventory in the Metro Vancouver1 housing market. 

On the demand side, the Greater Vancouver REALTORS®2 (GVR) reports that residential sales in the region totalled 2,333 in July 2024, a 5 per cent decrease from the 2,455 sales recorded in July 2023. This was 17.6 per cent below the 10-year seasonal average (2,831).

“The trend of buyers remaining hesitant, that began a few months ago, continued in the July data despite a fresh quarter percentage point cut to the Bank of Canada’s policy rate,” Andrew Lis, GVR’s director of economics and data analytics said. “With the recent half percentage point decline in the policy rate over the past few months, and with so much inventory to choose from, it’s a bit surprising transaction levels remain below historical norms as we enter the mid-point of summer.” 

There were 5,597 detached, attached and apartment properties newly listed for sale on the MLS® in Metro Vancouver in July 2024. This represents a 20.4 per cent increase compared to the 4,649 properties listed in July 2023. This was also 12.7 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average (4,968). 

The total number of properties currently listed for sale on the MLS® in Metro Vancouver is 14,326, a 39.1 per cent increase compared to July 2023 (10,301). This is also 21.5 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average (11,788). 

Across all detached, attached and apartment property types, the sales-to-active listings ratio for July 2024 is 16.9 per cent. By property type, the ratio is 12.8 per cent for detached homes, 20.1 per cent for attached, and 19.3 per cent for apartments. 

Analysis of the historical data suggests downward pressure on home prices occurs when the ratio dips below 12 per cent for a sustained period, while home prices often experience upward pressure when it surpasses 20 per cent over several months. 

“With the overall market experiencing balanced conditions, and with a healthy level of inventory not seen in quite a few years, price trends across all segments have leveled out with very modest declines occurring month over month,” Lis said. “While it remains to be seen whether softening prices and improved borrowing costs will entice buyers to purchase as we head into the fall market, it’s worth noting that it can take a few months for improvements to borrowing costs to materialize into higher transaction levels. In this respect, it’s still early days, so we will watch the market for signs of transaction activity picking up in the months ahead.” 

The MLS® Home Price Index composite benchmark price for all residential properties in Metro Vancouver is currently $1,197,700. This represents a 0.8 per cent decrease over July 2023 and a 0.8 per cent decrease compared to June 2024. 

Cool summer market persists in Fraser Valley with second slowest July sales in a decade

SURREY, BC – Sluggish seasonally-adjusted sales and a continued rise in inventory has the Fraser Valley market slowly shifting to favour buyers.

The Fraser Valley Real Estate Board recorded 1,230 sales in July, down by seven per cent over last month and down by 26 per cent over the 10-year seasonal average.

Inventory levels in the Fraser Valley reached a 10-year seasonally adjusted high in July with active listings at 8,731, up 5 per cent over June and 41 per cent higher than July 2023.

“Amidst an overall balanced market, some REALTORS® are experiencing pockets within the Fraser Valley that favour buyers, where prices have come down,” said Jeff Chadha, Chair of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board. “This is evident in the amount of time buyers have to view a property before considering making an offer. Properties that are well-priced are selling quickly, suggesting motivated buyers are active in the market despite the slowdown.”

New listings were flat in July, down by less than half a per cent from June, to 3,412. With a sales-to-active listings ratio of 14 per cent, overall market conditions are balanced. The market is considered balanced when the ratio is between 12 per cent and 20 per cent.

“Despite back-to-back policy rate cuts by the Bank of Canada, many first-time homebuyers are still facing challenging market conditions — high interest rates, the mortgage stress test and the need for a substantial down payment,” said FVREB CEO, Baldev Gill. “While we wait for the rate cuts to take effect, we encourage anyone looking to buy or sell to speak with a professional REALTOR®, who has the knowledge and expertise to navigate the current market.”

Across the Fraser Valley in July, the average number of days to sell a single-family detached home was 31, while for a condo it was 28. Townhomes took, on average, 25 days to sell.

Benchmark prices in the Fraser Valley dipped slightly in July, with the composite Benchmark price below $1 million for the first time since January 2024. The composite Benchmark price in the Fraser Valley is $999,100.

If you are interested in learning about the specific stats of a neighborhood, reach out to Iwa. They can provide insights on areas, property types, or trends you can leverage in 2024.

Metro Vancouver1 home sales registered on the MLS® remained below seasonal and historical averages in June. With reduced competition among buyers, inventory has continued to accumulate to levels not seen since the spring of 2019.

The Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR) reports that residential sales2 in the region totalled 2,418 in June 2024, a 19.1 per cent decrease from the 2,988 sales recorded in June 2023. This was 23.6 per cent below the 10-year seasonal average (3,166).

"The June data continued a trend we’ve been watching where buyers appear hesitant to transact in volumes we consider typical for this time of year, while sellers remain keen to bring their properties to market."Andrew Lis, REBGV director of economics and data analytics

“This dynamic is bringing inventory levels up to a healthy range not seen since before the pandemic. This trend is providing buyers more selection to choose from and driving all market segments toward balanced condition."

There were 5,723 detached, attached and apartment properties newly listed for sale on the MLS® in Metro Vancouver in June 2024. This represents a 7 per cent increase compared to the 5,347 properties listed in June 2023. This total is 3 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average (5,554).

The total number of properties currently listed for sale on the MLS® system in Metro Vancouver is 14,182, a 42 per cent increase compared to June 2023 (9,990). This total is 20.3 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average (11,790).

Across all detached, attached and apartment property types, the sales-to-active listings ratio for June 2024 is 17.6 per cent. By property type, the ratio is 13.1 per cent for detached homes, 21.1 per cent for attached, and 20.3 per cent for apartments.

Analysis of the historical data suggests downward pressure on home prices occurs when the ratio dips below 12 per cent for a sustained period, while home prices often experience upward pressure when it surpasses 20 per cent over several months.

“With an interest rate announcement from the Bank of Canada in July, there is a possibility of another cut to the policy rate this summer. This is yet another factor tilting the market in favour of buyers, even if the boost to affordability is modest,” Lis said.

“But June’s lower-than-normal transaction volumes suggest many buyers remain hesitant, which has allowed inventory to accumulate and has kept a lid on upward price pressure across market segments.

"With that said, the transaction-level data do show that well-priced properties are still selling quickly, suggesting astute buyers are able to spot value and act when opportunities arise.”

The MLS® Home Price Index composite benchmark price for all residential properties in Metro Vancouver is currently $1,207,100. This represents a 0.5 per cent increase over June 2023 and a 0.4 per cent decrease compared to May 2024.

Sales of detached homes in June 2024 reached 694, a 18.2 per cent decrease from the 848 detached sales recorded in June 2023. The benchmark price for a detached home is $2,061,000. This represents a 3.7 per cent increase from June 2023 and a 0.1 per cent decrease compared to May 2024.

Sales of apartment homes reached 1,245 in June 2024, a 20.9 per cent decrease compared to the 1,573 sales in June 2023. The benchmark price of an apartment home is $773,400. This represents a 1 per cent increase from June 2023 and a 0.4 per cent decrease compared to May 2024.

Attached home sales in June 2024 totalled 456, a 16.6 per cent decrease compared to the 547 sales in June 2023. The benchmark price of a townhouse3 is $1,138,100. This represents a 3 per cent increase from June 2023 and a 0.6 per cent decrease compared to May 2024.

Fraser Valley home sales fall despite Bank of Canada rate cut

SURREY, BC –The policy rate cut of 25 basis points by the Bank of Canada on June 5 was not enough to rally home sales in the Fraser Valley last month.

The Fraser Valley Real Estate Board recorded 1,317 sales in June, down by 13 per cent over last month and by more than 30 per cent over both last year and the 10-year seasonal average.

While sales remain soft, inventory continued to build for the sixth straight month to 8,350 active listings. Active listings increased 41 per cent over June 2023 and are the highest they’ve been in five years.

“With seasonally slow sales in June and a steady increase in inventory, we’d expect to see affordability improve,” said Jeff Chadha, Chair of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board. “However, prices in the Fraser Valley remained relatively flat. That said, despite slow sales, properties that are well-priced are finding buyers, and are subsequently selling within three to four weeks.”

New listings dropped in June, down nine per cent from May, to 3,418. With a sales-to-active listings ratio of 16 per cent, overall market conditions are balanced. The market is considered balanced when the ratio is between 12 per cent and 20 per cent.

“The June rate cut hasn’t been enough to get buyers off the sidelines,” said FVREB CEO, Baldev Gill. “Current market conditions are such that buyers and sellers are advised to have thoughtful conversations with their REALTOR® and lending professional, rather than relying on media reports about where interest rates may be heading in the future.”

Across the Fraser Valley in June, the average number of days to sell a single-family detached home was 22, while a townhome was 20. Condos took on average, 30 days to sell.

Benchmark prices in the Fraser Valley remained relatively flat in June, with the composite Benchmark price down 0.5 percent from May and down 3.2 per cent from June 2023.

If you are interested in learning about the specific stats of a neighbourhood, reach out to Iwa. They can provide insights on areas, property types, or trends you can leverage in 2024.