(Friendly, simple, and full of helpful insights)

Have you wondered what’s really going on in the Greater Vancouver housing market? Whether you’re thinking about buying, selling, or just curious about real estate trends, you’re not alone. Some parts of the Canadian housing market — especially here in Metro Vancouver — are going through a pretty unusual time right now.

Let’s break it down in a friendly, easy-to-understand way. We’ll look at what’s happening, what experts are saying, and what you might want to think about if you’re planning to make a move.

Is the Vancouver Market Slow? Yes — But What Does That Really Mean?

First up, the headlines have been talking about home sales at their lowest point in decades. In fact, recent reports suggest that sales activity in 2025 hit levels not seen in about 25 years.

That might sound scary at first. But here’s the thing:

1.Less buying and selling doesn’t always mean prices crash. It can just mean fewer people are making deals right now.

2.It can also mean more options for buyers, because more homes are sitting on the market rather than flying off the shelf.

Think of it like a busy café versus an empty one. If a café is packed, you might have to wait for a seat — but if it’s quiet, you can take your time choosing what you want. The housing market works a bit the same way.

So — Should Buyers Feel Excited or Nervous?

Good question.

If you’re thinking about buying your first home or your next one, a slow market can be good news. Here’s why:

1. More choice means less rush

When fewer people are buying, sellers might be more open to negotiation. You might have time to look at a few properties, ask questions, and not feel pressured to rush a decision.

2. Prices aren’t falling everywhere

Sales are down, but prices haven’t dropped massively across the board. In many areas, they’re softening or staying relatively stable, but not plummeting.

Ask yourself: Am I ready to buy now, or can I wait another season to see how the market evolves? There’s no perfect answer, but giving yourself time to think can be a huge advantage.

What About Sellers — Is Now a Good Time to Sell?

You might be wondering: If sales are low, is now a bad time to sell?

Not necessarily.

Here’s a simple way to think about it:

If you must sell soon:

You’ll want to price your home carefully and work with a real estate agent who understands the current market.

Why? Because fewer buyers means homes that are priced too high might just sit there. But homes that are priced right are still attracting interest.

*If you don’t have to sell right away:

You have options. You could wait for the market to pick up or make strategic improvements to your home to boost its value. This can sometimes make selling easier and more profitable later on.

Understanding the Bigger Picture: Why Is the Market Slow?

There’s no single reason, but several trends are in play:

Interest rates and borrowing costs

Higher mortgage rates have made some people pause and rethink home buying. When monthly payments go up, fewer buyers are ready to jump in.

Economic uncertainty

Some people are waiting to see how the economy settles before making a major life purchase. That’s totally normal.

More homes sitting on the market

With more listings available than buyers ready to make offers, the pace of sales slows down. That doesn’t mean demand is gone — it just means things are shifting.

It’s like a slow morning at the grocery store: the shelves are full, but people aren’t rushing to check out. Doesn’t mean they won’t; it just means traffic is light for now.

Let’s Talk Strategy: What Should You Do Next?

Whether you’re buying or selling, having a plan is key. Here are some tips that might help you navigate this market wisely.

If You’re a Buyer:✔ Get pre-approved for your mortgage

This gives you a clear budget and shows sellers you’re serious. It’s like having a shopping list before you hit the store — you know what you can afford and you don’t waste time.

✔ Think about your must-haves

What’s really important? A great neighbourhood? A backyard? Extra bedrooms? Knowing your priorities will save you stress.

✔ Don’t let fear rush you

Just because activity is slow doesn’t mean you have to buy right this second. Market shifts sometimes happen slowly, like a tide coming in — and you want to be ready when the time feels right.

If You’re a Seller:✔ Price your home realistically

This is where a good agent really pays off. They can help you understand what buyers are willing to pay right now — not what prices were months ago.

✔ Boost your home’s appeal

Simple upgrades (fresh paint, clean landscaping, professional photos) can make a big difference when buyers are picky.

✔ Be ready to negotiate

A slower market doesn’t mean no offers. It just means you may have to be flexible.

Final Thoughts — This Market Is Changing, Not Breaking

Markets go through ups and downs — sometimes slowly, sometimes quickly. What we’re seeing in Greater Vancouver today is a cool-down, not a collapse. More choices for buyers and a little patience from sellers can create opportunities most people didn’t have in hotter years.

Ask yourself:

1.What’s most important to me right now?

2.Do I need to move soon, or can I wait for a better deal?

3.What’s my budget, and how comfortable am I with it?

Thinking these through can make all the difference.

Got Questions? Let’s Talk!

Have a real estate question or a situation you’re unsure about? Don’t stress — call us today and talk to a trusted agent. The more you know, the easier the choices will be.

Remember: You’re not alone in this market. With a clear plan and smart decisions, you can figure out what’s best for your next move.