Highlights of Dexter’s September 2024 report

• Bank of Canada should cut its rate by 0.5% this month

• 5th straight month of declining sales in Metro Vancouver

• Highest number of Vancouver condo listings since 2012

• Buy now before everyone else does when the rates come down further

September 2024 brought on promises and more promises. The Bank of Canada dropped their interest rate for the third consecutive time and by the end of the month the U.S. went ahead with their first rate cut – jumping right in with a half point drop. We’re now expecting a half point drop by the Bank of Canada in October based on the latest economic data. And if that wasn’t enough, the province is heading to the polls later in October with promise after promise from the incumbent NDP government and challenging Conservatives.

Is it any wonder that buyers are waiting to see what happens? That was the tone of buyers in September, all while sellers jumped back into the market with another rush of listings. 

For the third consecutive meeting the Bank of Canada has reduced its key interest rate by a quarter point in September, bringing down mortgage costs for homeowners with variable rate mortgages and lines of credit. While not overly expected, there was some thought that a half point reduction was in order. But what this does now is leave the remaining two meetings open to further reductions in the Bank of Canada’s rate as the economy and inflation numbers clearly indicate that stimulus is needed. Expect both countries to use the remainder of the year to reduce their rates, with Canada going from the current 4.25% to 3.5% or lower by the time 2025 begins.

 

Many buyers may be thinking that significant Bank of Canada rate cuts will lead to equivalent reductions in fixed rates. But that’s not going to happen. Fixed rates are based on bond yields and current yields have factored in the anticipated drops in the Bank of Canada’s rate. That’s the reason why fixed rates have come down more than 1.5% from their highs already. With economic growth and inflation in Canada lagging, it’s become more likely that the Bank of Canada will cut quicker and deeper than anticipated, so expect variable rate mortgage costs to drop more than fixed rate mortgage costs. That means buyers looking for fixed rate mortgages aren’t going to gain by waiting. With the highest inventory of properties available in the last 6 years, opportunities exist for buyers more so than ever.

There were 1,852 properties sold in Greater Vancouver in September, after 1,903 sold in August, 2,333 properties sold in July, and 2,418 sold in June. With the highest number of active listings available since mid-2019, buyers are still in a holding pattern. Given the path to a sub 3 Bank of Canada rate by some time next year, variable rate mortgages are the flavour of buyers. Taking advantage of the increase in choice will allow those buyers brave enough to buy now and ride the rate down to beat out the competition that will come next spring. 


Sales in September were a 4% decrease from the 1,903 properties sold last year, after a 17% decrease in August from the 2,296 properties sold in August 2023. September typically sees a tepid start to the fall market, so less sales in the month after August is not unusual. Will it take another rate cut to further entice more buyers into the market? While the federal government’s promise to extend amortizations for all buyers of presales to 30% and increase of the threshold for insured mortgages to $1.5M gives promise to buyers for easing the mortgage pain, this won’t come until December. Just what the market needs, another reason to wait and push more into the spring market. Buy now or compete later is the mantra of this fall market.  


Sales in September were 26% below the 10-year average, like August with sales 26% below the 10-year average after July was 18% below the 10-year average and June was 24% below the 10-year average. The fall market has some work to do to eclipse the spring market in terms of activity but what’s clear is that the longer demand holds off, the busier it will be come the spring. With the inventory of listings continuing to rise, buyers have choice and opportunity like they haven’t seen since 2019. 
In Greater Vancouver the number of new listings in September were the highest totals since May after dropping to a low in August. With 6,228 new listings in September, this was a 48% jump from what came on the market in August and an increase of 11% compared to September 2023. Sellers were certainly ready to get into the fall market, even if buyers were still reluctant.


The number of new listings in September were 16% above the 10-year average after August was 1.5% below the 10-year average, July 12% above the 10-year average, and June 2% above the 10-year average. With 3 months left in the year, the total new listings so far are almost at the total for 2023 and will likely be the second highest annual amount in the last 10 years. Even with this, prices had remained relatively flat but are trending lower in the last few months, albeit in the 1 to 3% range for declines. The increase in listings will help keep prices in check as demand enters back into the market at a greater rate over the next year. 


There were 14,932 active listings in Greater Vancouver at month end, compared to 13,812 at the end of August, 14,325 at the end of July and 14,180 at the end of June. After being up 46% year-over-year at the end of May, currently there are 31% more active listings year-over-year, a drop from being at 37% at the end of August. While we did see a significant jump in active listings after the month of September, we’re still not at the highs we saw in 2019, although for the month of September we’d have to go back to 2014 to see an active listing count this high for the month of September. Count on total active listings climbing above 15,000 in Greater Vancouver as we move through October before declining through the rest of year. 

 

Overall, the detached market in Greater Vancouver is up to 11 months supply from 10 while townhomes remained at 6 months supply and condos climbed to 7 months from 6. Condos have seen the biggest increase in listings with there being 39% active listings year-over-year, with detached at 24% above the same time last year. Detached sales activity has slowed more so though, putting many areas into strong buyer’s markets with over 10 months supply.

Vancouver westside condos are at the highest number of active listings since 2012 and sitting with 10 months supply – likely a result of rental legislation and short-term rental rules making that type of property a less attractive investment. Move over to the east side though and sales are up compared to last month and last year with their only being 5 months supply. That’s what a $200,000 difference in average price will do. As we move through October, election rhetoric and interest rate relief will be a distraction for many buyers.
 

Affordability will continue to be the word thrown around by the two main parties in B.C. when referencing housing, but with so many regulations put in place by the current government, supply suffers at the hands of so many restrictions. Even with the promise to build more, we are still left with the question of how that’s going to happen.

Here’s a summary of the numbers:


Greater Vancouver: Total Units Sold in September were 1,852 – down from 1,903 (3%) in August, down from 2,333 (21%) in July, down from 2,418 (23%) in June, down from 1,93 (4%) in September 2023, up from 1,701 (9%) in September 2022, down from 3,200 (42%) in September 2021, down from 3,741 (50%) in September 2020, and down from 2,363 (22%) in September 2019; Active Listings were at 14,932 at month end compared to 11,382 at that time last year (up 31%) and 13,812 at the end of August (up 8%); the 6,228 New Listings in September were up 48% compared to August 2024, up 14% compared to September 2023, up 43% compared to September 2022, up 17% compared to September 2021, down 6% compared to September 2020, and up 24% compared to September 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is up to 8 month’s supply from 7 (buyer’s market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 30% compared to 45% in August 2024, 35% in September 2023, and 39% in September 2022. 


Month-over-month, the house price index is down 1.4% and in the last 6 months down 1.6%.


Vancouver Westside: Total Units Sold in September were 312 – down from 337 (7%) in August, down from 416 (25%) in July, down from 470 (34%) in June, down from 338 (8%) in September 2023, up from 301 (4%) in September 2022, down from 567 (45%) in September 2021, down from 539 (42%) in September 2020, and down from 404 (23%) in September 2019; Active Listings were at 3,174 at month end compared to 2,558 at that time last year (up 24%) and 2,873 at the end of August (up 10%); the 1,302 New Listings in September were up 69% compared to August 2024, up 57% compared to September 2023, up 43% compared to September 2022, up 5% compared to September 2021, down 4% compared to September 2020, and up 31% compared to September 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is up to 10 month’s supply from 9 (buyer’s market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 24% compared to 44% in August 2024, 29% in September 2023, and 33% in September 2022.


Month-over-month, the house price index is down 1.2% and in the last 6 months up 0.4%. 


Vancouver East Side: Total Units Sold in September were 211 – up from 193 (9%) in August, down from 263 (20%) in July, down from 270 (22%) in June, up from 192 (10%) in September 2023, up from 178 (19%) in September 2022, down from 368 (43%) in September 2021, down from 443 (52%) in September 2020, and down from 293 (28%) in September 2019; Active Listings were at 1,529 at month end compared to 1,196 at that time last year (up 27%) and 1,407 at the end of August (up 8%); the 772 New Listings in September were up 67% compared to August 2024, up 22% compared to September 2023, up 71% compared to September 2022, up 22% compared to September 2021, down 7% compared to September 2020, and up 33% compared to September 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is steady at 7 month’s supply (balanced market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 28% compared to 42% in August 2024, 31% in September 2023, and 40% in September 2022.


Month-over-month, the house price index is down 1.3% and in the last 6 months down 0.4%. 


North Vancouver: Total Units Sold in September were 144 – down from 145 (1%) in August, down from 201 (28%) in July, down from 221 (35%) in June, down from 169 (15%) in September 2023, up from 128 (13%) in September 2022, down from 230 (37%) in September 2021, down from 328 (56%) in September 2020, and down from 166 (13%) in September 2019; Active Listings were at 856 at month end compared to 627 at that time last year (up 36%) and 675 at the end of August (up 27%); the 543 New Listings in September were up 102% compared to August 2024, up 13% compared to September 2023, up 35% compared to September 2022, up 29% compared to September 2021, down 8% compared to September 2020, and up 21% compared to September 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is up to 6 month’s supply from 5 (balanced market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 27% compared to 54% in August 2024, 35% in September 2023, and 32% in September 2022.


Month-over-month, the house price index is down 2.5% and in the last 6 months down 3.1%. 


West Vancouver: Total Units Sold in September were 45 – down from 57 (21%) in August, down from 59 (24%) in July, down from 75 (40%) in June, down from 53 (15%) in September 2023, up from 42 (7%) in September 2022, down from 71 (37%) in September 2021, down from 98 (54%) in September 2020, and down from 51 (12%) in September 2019; Active Listings were at 724 at month end compared to 626 at that time last year (up 31%) and 678 at the end of August (up 8%); the 237 New Listings in September were up 71% compared to August 2024, down 8% compared to September 2023, up 21% compared to September 2022, up 9% compared to September 2021, up 13% compared to September 2020, and up 1% compared to September 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is up to 16 month’s supply from 12 (buyer’s market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 19% compared to 42% in August 2024, 21% in September 2023, and 22% in September 2022.


Month-over-month, the house price index is down 3.0% but in the last 6 months down 2.8%. 


Richmond: Total Units Sold in September were 197 – up from 191 (3%) in August, down from 255 (23%) in July, down from 263 (25%) in June, down from 256 (23%) in September 2023, down from 210 (6%) in September 2022, down from 432 (54%) in September 2021, down from 415 (53%) in September 2020, and down from 283 (30%) in September 2019; Active Listings were at 1,736 at month end compared to 1,268 at that time last year (up 37%) and 1,632 at the end of August (up 6%); the 629 New Listings in September were up 16% compared to August 2024, up 4% compared to September 2023, up 35% compared to September 2022, up 0.5% compared to September 2021, down 10% compared to September 2020, and up 12% compared to September 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is steady at 9 month’s supply (balanced market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 31% compared to 35% in August 2024, 43% in September 2023, and 45% in September 2022.


Month-over-month, the house price index is down 1.2% and in the last 6 months down 2.5%. 


Burnaby East: Total Units Sold in September were 29 – up from 25 (16%) in August, down from 33 (12%) in July, up from 17 (71%) in June, up from 18 (61%) in September 2023, up from 17 (18%) in September 2022, down from 38 (24%) in September 2021, down from 41 (29%) in September 2020, and up from 22 (32%) in September 2019; Active Listings were at 148 at month end compared to 96 at that time last year (up 54%) and 140 at the end of August (up 6%); the 67 New Listings in September were up 37% compared to August 2024, up 37% compared to September 2023, up 148% compared to September 2022, up 37% compared to September 2021, up 22% compared to September 2020, and up 20% compared to September 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is down to 5 month’s supply from 6 (balanced market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 43% compared to 51% in August 2024, 37% in September 2023, and 63% in September 2022.


Month-over-month, the house price index is down 1.4% and in the last 6 months down 2.4%. 


Burnaby North: Total Units Sold in September were 122 – down from 145 (16%) in August, down from 137 (11%) in July, down from 172 (29%) in June, up from 113 (8%) in September 2023, up from 111 (10%) in September 2022, down from 189 (47%) in September 2021, down from 192 (36%) in September 2020, and down from 138 (6%) in September 2019; Active Listings were at 839 at month end compared to 561 at that time last year (up 49%) and 826 at the end of August (up 1%); the 339 New Listings in September were up 15% compared to August 2024, up 11% compared to September 2023, up 73% compared to September 2022, down 12% compared to September 2021, down 3% compared to September 2020, and up 34% compared to September 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is up to 7 month’s supply from 6 (balanced market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 36% compared to 49% in August 2024, 37% in September 2023, and 57% in September 2022.


Month-over-month, the house price index is down 1.5% and in the last 6 months down 2.1%. 


Burnaby South: Total Units Sold in September were 114 – up from 112 (2%) in August, down from 140 (19%) in July, down from 135 (16%) in June, down from 126 (10%) in September 2023, up from 96 (19%) in September 2022, down from 183 (38%) in September 2021, down from 173 (34%) in September 2020, and down from 119 (4%) in September 2019; Active Listings were at 694 at month end compared to 518 at that time last year (up 34%) and 634 at the end of August (up 9%); the 332 New Listings in September were up 49% compared to August 2024, up 18% compared to September 2023, up 53% compared to September 2022, up 16% compared to September 2021, down 8% compared to September 2020, and up 42% compared to September 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is steady at 6 month’s supply (balanced market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 35% compared to 51% in August 2024, 45% in September 2023, and 44% in September 2022.


Month-over-month, the house price index is down 3.4% and in the last 6 months down 4.3%. 


New Westminster: Total Units Sold in September were 73 – down from 79 (8%) in August, down from 98 (26%) in July, down from 108 (32%) in June, up from 72 (1%) in September 2023, up from 67 (9%) in September 2022, down from 131 (44%) in September 2021, down from 176 (59%) in September 2020, and down from 110 (34%) in September 2019; Active Listings were at 468 at month end compared to 298 at that time last year (up 57%) and 406 at the end of August (up 15%); the 242 New Listings in September were up 69% compared to August 2024, up 39% compared to September 2023, up 40% compared to September 2022, up 3% compared to September 2021, down 24% compared to September 2020, and up 11% compared to September 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is up to 6 month’s supply from 5 (balanced market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 30% compared to 56% in August 2024, 42% in September 2023, and 39% in September 2022.


Month-over-month, the house price index is up 0.6% and in the last 6 months down 0.3%. 


Coquitlam: Total Units Sold in September were 155 – down from 171 (9%) in August, down from 178 (13%) in July, down from 189 (18%) in June, down from 170 (9%) in September 2023, up from 142 (9%) in September 2022, down from 247 (37%) in September 2021, down from 307 (50%) in September 2020, and down from 213 (27%) in September 2019; Active Listings were at 1,146 at month end compared to 713 at that time last year (up 61%) and 1,052 at the end of August (up 9%); the 512 New Listings in September were up 22% compared to August 2024, up 15% compared to September 2023, up 58% compared to September 2022, up 43% compared to September 2021, the same as September 2020, and up 34% compared to September 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is up to 7 month’s supply from 6 (balanced market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 30% compared to 41% in August 2024, 38% in September 2023, and 44% in September 2022.


Month-over-month, the house price index is down 1.5% and in the last 6 months down 3.0%. 


Port Moody: Total Units Sold in September were 61 – up from 39 (56%) in August, up from 58 (5%) in July, up from 56 (9%) in June, up from 44 (39%) in September 2023, up from 53 (15%) in September 2022, down from 69 (12%) in September 2021, down from 88 (31%) in September 2020, and up from 49 (24%) in September 2019; Active Listings were at 251 at month end compared to 185 at that time last year (up 36%) and 243 at the end of August (up 3%); the 143 New Listings in September were up 59% compared to August 2024, up 38% compared to September 2023, up 61% compared to September 2022, up 46% compared to September 2021, down 14% compared to September 2020, and up 51% compared to September 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is down to 4 month’s supply from 6 (seller’s market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 43% compared to 43% in August 2024, 42% in September 2023, and 60% in September 2022.


Month-over-month, the house price index is down 0.7% and in the last 6 months up 2.4%. 


Port Coquitlam: Total Units Sold in September were 52 – down from 56 (7%) in August, down from 66 (21%) in July, down from 62 (16%) in June, down from 65 (20%) in September 2023, up from 50 (4%) in September 2022, down from 97 (46%) in September 2021, down from 114 (54%) in September 2020, and down from 78 (33%) in September 2019; Active Listings were at 358 at month end compared to 191 at that time last year (up 87%) and 306 at the end of August (up 17%); the 186 New Listings in September were up 81% compared to August 2024, up 33% compared to September 2023, up 49% compared to September 2022, up 28% compared to September 2021, down 7% compared to September 2020, and up 28% compared to September 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is up to 7 month’s supply from 5 (balanced market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 28% compared to 55% in August 2024, 47% in September 2023, and 40% in September 2022.


Month-over-month, the house price index is down 2.1% and in the last 6 months down 1.6%. 


Pitt Meadows: Total Units Sold in September were 24 – up from 21 (14%) in August, down from 27 (11%) in July, down from 28 (14%) in June, the same as September 2023, up from 20 (20%) in September 2022, down from 41 (41%) in September 2021, down from 44 (45%) in September 2020, and down from 32 (25%) in September 2019; Active Listings were at 125 at month end compared to 94 at that time last year (up 32%) and 105 at the end of August (up 19%); the 70 New Listings in September were up 75% compared to August 2024, up 29% compared to September 2023, up 27% compared to September 2022, up 59% compared to September 2021, down 9% compared to September 2020, and up 19% compared to September 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is steady at 5 month’s supply (balanced market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 34% compared to 52% in August 2024, 44% in September 2023, and 36% in September 2022.  


Month-over-month, the house price index is down 1.5% and in the last 6 months down 3.1%.


Maple Ridge: Total Units Sold in September were 114 – down from 123 (7%) in August, down from 166 (31%) in July, down from 130 (12%) in June, up from 108 (6%) in September 2023, down from 115 (1%) in September 2022, down from 182 (37%) in September 2021, down from 267 (57%) in September 2020, and down from 157 (27%) in September 2019; Active Listings were at 887 at month end compared to 752 at that time last year (up 17%) and 855 at the end of August (up 4%); the 344 New Listings in September were up 24% compared to August 2024, down 4% compared to September 2023, up 22% compared to September 2022, up 50% compared to September 2021, up 14% compared to September 2020, and up 21% compared to September 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is up to 8 month’s supply from 7 (buyer’s market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 33% compared to 44% in August 2024, 30% in September 2023, and 40% in September 2022.


Month-over-month, the house price index is down 0.7% and in the last 6 months down 1.2%. 


Ladner: Total Units Sold in September were 22 – down from 25 (12%) in August, down from 31 (29%) in July, down from 27 (19%) in June, down from 26 (15%) in September 2023, up from 20 (10%) in September 2022, down from 38 (42%) in September 2021, down from 53 (58%) in September 2020, and down from 28 (21%) in September 2019; Active Listings were at 136 at month end compared to 117 at that time last year (up 16%) and 124 at the end of August (up 10%); the 73 New Listings in September were up 62% compared to August 2024, up 12% compared to September 2023, up 83% compared to September 2022, up 62% compared to September 2021, up 30% compared to September 2020, and up 33% compared to September 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is up to 6 month’s supply from 5 (balanced market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 30% compared to 56% in August 2024, 40% in September 2023, and 50% in September 2022.


Month-over-month, the house price index is up 1.0% and in the last 6 months up 1.6%. 


Tsawwassen: Total Units Sold in September were 34 – up from 32 (6%) in August, down from 45 (24%) in July, down from 44 (23%) in June, down from 42 (35%) in September 2023, up from 21 (62%) in September 2022, down from 57 (40%) in September 2021, down from 80 (57%) in September 2020, and up from 26 (31%) in September 2019; Active Listings were at 215 at month end compared to 174 at that time last year (up 23%) and 199 at the end of August (up 7%); the 80 New Listings in September were up 32% compared to August 2024, up 7% compared to September 2023, up 36% compared to September 2022, up 8% compared to September 2021, down 32% compared to September 2020, and the same as September 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is steady at 6 month’s supply (buyer’s market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 43% compared to 53% in August 2024, 57% in September 2023, and 36% in September 2022.


Month-over-month, the house price index is down 2.8% and in the last 6 months down 4.3%. 

 

Fraser Valley: Sales in September were down 8.0%, compared to August and were down 10.7% from September 2023. New listings were up 20.7% from August and up 17.2% from September 2023.The average price was down 2.3% month-over-month and is up 2.4% year-over-year. Active listings were up 4.9% to 9,045 from 8,626 last month and up 38.5% from September 2023 which was at 6,532. Month’s supply of total residential listings is up to 9 month’s supply from 8 (buyer’s market conditions).
“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.


Month-over-month, the house price index is down 1% and in the last 6 months 3%. 

And the Listings Kept on Coming!

Highlights of Dexter’s May 2024 report

• The first Bank of Canada rate cut since 2020 – now what?

• Active listings in Greater Vancouver are up 46% from last year

• Buyers are being patient; sales dipped in May 

• Watch the Micro Markets closely

• Prices are relatively flat and some are down in the last 6 months

The Canadian Economy has been speaking, and the Bank of Canada finally listened. This morning, they dropped their overnight right by a quarter point which will see rates for variable rate mortgages and lines of credit come down. While not substantial, it signals the start of downward movement with interest rates. A welcome relief to many and perhaps a signal that it’s time to buy. With the next announcement in July, many will be singing like Tim McGraw “I like it, I love it, I want some more of it.”

For the second month in a row, the story was listings. More and more listings came on the market in May, albeit off the pace of April. The result is active listing inventory is at levels not seen since later 2020 after the world opened post Covid shutdown. Buyers are more patient though, with sales overall in Greater Vancouver down from April and May of last year – although the Fraser Valley saw sales creep up from April. This only adds to the level of pent-up demand that will start to act with more favourable interest rate and economic conditions. It’s not a matter of will buyers engage, but a question of when. 

While there was a break this month in new housing regulations, the market is still factoring in the numerous changes to various housing legislation introduced at the provincial and federal levels. Likely we are seeing properties listed due to capital gains changes, short term rental restrictions and investor frustration with the regulations of their rental properties they own. Owning a property in British Columbia has become a lot more difficult and more costly and as a result some sellers would rather sell than hold. This has the knock-on effect of removing some rental stock at the same time – not ideal for those struggling to find a rental.

There were 2,733 properties sold in Greater Vancouver in May after seeing 2,831 properties sold in April and 2,415 properties sold in March this year. This was a 20% decrease from the 3,411 properties sold last year in May. This marked the first month-over-month decline in sales this year. With increased listing counts, it should have brought on more sales, but buyers are continuing to show more patience and take advantage of the opportunity of choice. 

Sales in May were 20% below the 10-year average after being 12% below the 10-year-average in April and 30% below the 10-year average in March. One step forward, one step backward seems to be the theme in the real estate market. But with the number of homes for sale increasing, this will lead to a better chance for increasing home sale when buyers engage. And that may just be this month. What seems to be happening though is that real estate activity is occurring in many different micro markets. Detached houses on Vancouver’s West Side can sell with 5 offers in the $3M range while apartment listings below $1 Million can sit.

Detached properties overall saw the lowest growth in new listings in May, while townhouses surprisingly showed the most growth in new listings. And apartment sales were down the most year-over-year, likely an indication of how much higher interest rates are impacting that end of the market. First time buyers while getting the benefit of more choice still must contend with higher rates and especially the stress test which adds another 2% onto the rate for qualification purposes. Expect to see that segment of the market move quickly with rate reductions. Looking at detached home sales, they were up 4% month-over-month while down 18% year-over-year (although Pitt Meadows and Maple Ridge saw more sales year-over-year), townhouse sales were down 20% month-over-month and down 13% year-over-year and condo sales were down 6% month-over-month and down 22% year-over-year. 

As listings increased in the last two months, the months of supply didn’t increase much if at all in some areas. Greater Vancouver ticked up to 5 months supply (on the border of balanced to seller’s market), while some areas like North Vancouver (even with the number of active townhouse listings double the amount there were in May 2023), Port Coquitlam and Pitt Meadows are at 3 months supply, while New Westminster, Coquitlam, Port Moody and Ladner are at 4 months supply. All while listings totals ramped up. 

While we didn’t hit 7,000 for the number of new listings in May, after reaching 7,229 in April in Greater Vancouver, there were still 6,484 new listings that came on. Just shy of the May 2022 at 6491 and off the May 2021 high for that month at 7,276. For a variety of reasons sellers were coming to the market over the last 2 months, after being patient over the last 2 years. As we’ve said, significant pent-up supply had been building as many moves were on hold due to higher interest rates, lack of buyer demand and an inability to find the next home. With more choice available for sellers, we are seeing the sell and buy transactions coming back into the market. That has been missing over the last few years. And with more supply, prices are holding and, in some areas, and property types seeing downward pressure. 

The number of new listings in May were 7% above the 10-year average after April was 29% above the 10-year average and March was 9% below the 10-year average. May will typically see a significant number of sellers come to the market in advance of summer, so it isn’t surprising to see those numbers. We’ll see the number of new listings decrease as June winds down and the summer months come upon us.  

There were 13,600 active listings in Greater Vancouver at month end, compared to the 12,491 actives at the end of April and 10,552 at the end of March. With sales to listings ratios around 40% over the last two months, it’s allowed active listing counts to grow quickly in the region. Compared to this time last year, listings are up 46% from the 9,293 at the end of May 2023.  Detached active listings are up 37% year-over-year, while townhouses are up 53% and condos are up 56%. The detached market overall in Greater Vancouver remains at 6 months supply - a balanced market. Vancouver’s East Side is bucking this trend though, sitting with 4 month’s supply for all residential properties and producing some interesting multiple offer sales. Townhomes moved up to 4 months supply from 3 and condos stayed at 4 months supply - keeping both technically in seller’s market conditions in Greater Vancouver. Area by area market activity and the level of competition for listings will vary. Considering how much has come on the market; we still aren’t close to a true buyer’s market and it wont’ take much to see the shift back to a seller’s market. 

The last two months have seen a shift in the real estate market to more active sellers and increased buyer hesitation. With so much talk about interest rates, it’s easy to see why buyers are playing the waiting game. With visions of lower rates, why buy now and let’s shop for the best deal has become theme in the buyer world. But tides can shift quickly, when interest rates creep down. Buyers may soon find that the competition they were trying to avoid may come back quicker than expected. Those not distracted or hampered by elevated interest rates could see the best buying opportunity in some time. 

Here’s a summary of the numbers:

Greater Vancouver: Total Units Sold in May were 2,733 – down from 2,831 (3%) in April, up from 2,415 (13%) in March, down from 3,411 (20%) in May 2023, down from 2,947 (7%) in May 2022, down from 4,346 (37%) in May 2021, up from 1,506 (81%) in May 2020, and up from 2,669 (2%) in May 2019; Active Listings were at 13,600 at month end compared to 9,293 at that time last year (up 46%) and 12,491 at the end of April (up 9%); New Listings in May were down 10% compared to April 2024, up 12% compared to May 2023, down 0.1% compared to May 2022, down 11% compared to May 2021, up 72% compared to May 2020, and up 8% compared to May 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is up to 5 month’s supply from 4 (balanced market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 42% compared to 39% in April 2024, 59% in May 2023, and 45% in May 2022. 

Month-over-month, the house price index is up 0.5% and in the last 6 months up 2.5%.

Vancouver Westside: Total Units Sold in May were 501 – up from 471 (6%) in April, up from 424 (18%) in March, down from 624 (20%) in May 2023, down from 582 (14%) in May 2022, down from 736 (32%) in May 2021, up from 264 (90%) in May 2020, and up from 460 (9%) in May 2019; Active Listings were at 2,962 at month end compared to 2,115 at that time last year (up 40%) and 2,778 at the end of April (up 7%); New Listings in May were down 11% compared to April 2024, up 12% compared to May 2023, up 4% compared to May 2022, down 11% compared to May 2021, up 79% compared to May 2020, and up 26% compared to May 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is steady at 6 month’s supply (balanced market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 38% compared to 31% in April 2024, 53% in May 2023, and 46% in May 2022.

Month-over-month, the house price index is down 0.2% and in the last 6 months up 2.0%. 

Vancouver East Side: Total Units Sold in May were 329 – down from 349 (5%) in April, up from 285 (15%) in March, down from 360 (9%) in May 2023, up from 318 (3%) in May 2022, down from 474 (31%) in May 2021, up from 167 (97%) in May 2020, and up from 328 (0.3%) in May 2019; Active Listings were at 1,459 at month end compared to 1,006 at that time last year (up 45%) and 1,369 at the end of April (up 7%); New Listings in May were down 16% compared to April 2024, up 12% compared to May 2023, down 4% compared to May 2022, down 15% compared to May 2021, up 88% compared to May 2020, and up 19% compared to May 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is steady at 4 month’s supply (seller’s market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 45% compared to 41% in April 2024, 56% in May 2023, and 45% in May 2022.

Month-over-month, the house price index is up 0.4% and in the last 6 months up 1.9%. 

North Vancouver: Total Units Sold in May were 245 – down from 248 (1%) in April, up from 187 (31%) in March, down from 288 (15%) in May 2023, down from 280 (12%) in May 2022, down from 358 (32%) in May 2021, up from 136 (80%) in May 2020, and down from 257 (5%) in May 2019; Active Listings were at 796 at month end compared to 514 at that time last year (up 55%) and 711 at the end of April (up 12%); New Listings in May were down 12% compared to April 2024, up 21% compared to May 2023, up 11% compared to May 2022, down 11% compared to May 2021, up 59% compared to May 2020, and up 4% compared to May 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is steady at 3 month’s supply (seller’s market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 46% compared to 41% in April 2024, 66% in May 2023, and 58% in May 2022.

Month-over-month, the house price index is up 1.4% and in the last 6 months up 3.8%. 

West Vancouver: Total Units Sold in May were 67 – down from 70 (4%) in April, up from 53 (21%) in March, down from 80 (16%) in May 2023, down from 69 (3%) in May 2022, down from 90 (26%) in May 2021, up from 43 (56%) in May 2020, and down from 71 (6%) in May 2019; Active Listings were at 696 at month end compared to 529 at that time last year (up 32%) and 628 at the end of April (up 11%); New Listings in May were down 12% compared to April 2024, up 12% compared to May 2023, up 6% compared to May 2022, down 3% compared to May 2021, up 81% compared to May 2020, and up 11% compared to May 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is up to 10 month’s supply from 9 (buyer’s market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 26% compared to 24% in April 2024, 35% in May 2023, and 28% in May 2022.

Month-over-month, the house price index is up 2.2% but in the last 6 months up 3.8%. 

Richmond: Total Units Sold in May were 299 – down from 336 (11%) in April, up from 279 (7%) in March, down from 396 (24%) in May 2023, down from 341 (12%) in May 2022, down from 505 (41%) in May 2021, up from 152 (97%) in May 2020, and up from 271 (10%) in May 2019; Active Listings were at 1,440 at month end compared to 1,043 at that time last year (up 38%) and 1,339 at the end of April (up 8%); New Listings in May were down 15% compared to April 2024, up 0.5% compared to May 2023, down 20% compared to May 2022, down 22% compared to May 2021, up 58% compared to May 2020, and down 16% compared to May 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is up to 5 month’s supply from 4 (balanced market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 46% compared to 4% in April 2024, 61% in May 2023, and 42% in May 2022.

Month-over-month, the house price index is up 0.3% and in the last 6 months up 2.0%. 

Burnaby East: Total Units Sold in May were 31 – up from 30 (3%) in April, down from 32 (3%) in March, down from 39 (21%) in May 2023, up from 30 (3%) in May 2022, down from 53 (42%) in May 2021, up from 18 (72%) in May 2020, and up from 25 (24%) in May 2019; Active Listings were at 117 at month end compared to 90 at that time last year (up 30%) and 114 at the end of April (up 3%); New Listings in May were down 8% compared to April 2024, down 10% compared to May 2023, down 5% compared to May 2022, down 22% compared to May 2021, up 42% compared to May 2020, and up 22% compared to May 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is steady at 4 month’s supply (seller’s market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 51% compared to 45% in April 2024, 57% in May 2023, and 47% in May 2022.

Month-over-month, the house price index is up 1.1% and in the last 6 months up 4.0%. 

Burnaby North: Total Units Sold in May were 166 – up from 162 (2%) in April, up from 109 (52%) in March, down from 195 (13%) in May 2023, down from 175 (5%) in May 2022, down from 241 (31%) in May 2021, up from 79 (110%) in May 2020, and up from 123 (35%) in May 2019; Active Listings were at 749 at month end compared to 450 at that time last year (up 66%) and 700 at the end of April (up 7%); New Listings in May were down 16% compared to April 2024, up 27% compared to May 2023, up 18% compared to May 2022, up 1% compared to May 2021, up 148% compared to May 2020, and up 39% compared to May 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is up to 5 month’s supply from 4 (balanced market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 42% compared to 35% in April 2024, 63% in May 2023, and 53% in May 2022.

Month-over-month, the house price index is flat and in the last 6 months up 1.7%. 

Burnaby South: Total Units Sold in May were 127 – down from 143 (3%) in April, down from 142 (13%) in March, down from 233 (20%) in May 2023, down from 163 (7%) in May 2022, down from 231 (37%) in May 2021, up from 64 (81%) in May 2020, and down from 131 (2%) in May 2019; Active Listings were at 645 at month end compared to 404 at that time last year (up 60%) and 537 at the end of April (up 22%); New Listings in May were up 6% compared to April 2024, up 8% compared to May 2023, up 15% compared to May 2022, down 12% compared to May 2021, up 168% compared to May 2020, and up 7% compared to May 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is up to 5 month’s supply from 4 (balanced market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 37% compared to 44% in April 2024, 73% in May 2023, and 54% in May 2022.

Month-over-month, the house price index is up 0.5% and in the last 6 months up 2.4%. 

New Westminster: Total Units Sold in May were 115 – up from 105 (10%) in April, up from 108 (6%) in March, down from 142 (19%) in May 2023, down from 117 (2%) in May 2022, down from 194 (41%) in May 2021, up from 73 (58%) in May 2020, and down from 127 (9%) in May 2019; Active Listings were at 428 at month end compared to 258 at that time last year (up 66%) and 408 at the end of April (up 5%); New Listings in May were down 14% compared to April 2024, up 4% compared to May 2023, down 14% compared to May 2022, down 21% compared to May 2021, up 38% compared to May 2020, and down 21% compared to May 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is up steady at 4 month’s supply (seller’s market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 53% compared to 42% in April 2024, 69% in May 2023, and 47% in May 2022.

Month-over-month, the house price index is up 0.4% and in the last 6 months up 3.8%. 

Coquitlam: Total Units Sold in May were 228 – down from 238 (4%) in April, down from 235 (3%) in March, down from 284 (20%) in May 2023, down from 244 (7%) in May 2022, down from 350 (35%) in May 2021, up from 132 (72%) in May 2020, and up from 205 (14%) in May 2019; Active Listings were at 914 at month end compared to 555 at that time last year (up 65%) and 802 at the end of April (up 14%); New Listings in May were down 6% compared to April 2024, up 11% compared to May 2023, up 11% compared to May 2022, down 10% compared to May 2021, up 41% compared to May 2020, and down 1% compared to May 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is up to 4 month’s supply from 3 (seller’s market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 44% compared to 43% in April 2024, 61% in May 2023, and 53% in May 2022.

Month-over-month, the house price index is flat and in the last 6 months up 2.1%. 

Port Moody: Total Units Sold in May were 58 – down from 73 (21%) in April, up from 45 (29%) in March, down from 87 (33%) in May 2023, up from 57 (2%) in May 2022, down from 102 (43%) in May 2021, up from 46 (26%) in May 2020, and up from 62 (6%) in May 2019; Active Listings were at 219 at month end compared to 184 at that time last year (up 19%) and 203 at the end of April (up 8%); New Listings in May were down 24% compared to April 2024, down 9% compared to May 2023, down 28% compared to May 2022, down 21% compared to May 2021, up 26% compared to May 2020, and down 4% compared to May 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is up to 4 month’s supply from 3 (seller’s market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 48% compared to 45% in April 2024, 65% in May 2023, and 34% in May 2022.

Month-over-month, the house price index is up 1.0% and in the last 6 months down 2.2%. 

Port Coquitlam: Total Units Sold in May were 95 – down from 102 (7%) in April, up from 89 (10%) in March, up from 91 (4%) in May 2023, up from 91 (4%) in May 2022, down from 165 (42%) in May 2021, up from 60 (58%) in May 2020, and down from 132 (28%) in May 2019; Active Listings were at 278 at month end compared to 153 at that time last year (up 46%) and 254 at the end of April (up 9%); New Listings in May were down 8% compared to April 2024, up 18% compared to May 2023, down 18% compared to May 2022, down 30% compared to May 2021, up 91% compared to May 2020, and down 7% compared to May 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is up to 3 month’s supply from 2 (seller’s market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 55% compared to 54% in April 2024, 62% in May 2023, and 43% in May 2022.

Month-over-month, the house price index is flat and in the last 6 months up 2.9%. 

Pitt Meadows: Total Units Sold in May were 30 – down from 32 (6%) in April, up from 29 (3%) in March, down from 39 (23%) in May 2023, up from 24 (25%) in May 2022, down from 54 (44%) in May 2021, up from 23 (30%) in May 2020, and down from 40 (25%) in May 2019; Active Listings were at 94 at month end compared to 71 at that time last year (up 32%) and 71 at the end of April (up 32%); New Listings in May were up 26% compared to April 2024, up 60% compared to May 2023, down 9% compared to May 2022, up 13% compared to May 2021, up 50% compared to May 2020, and up 20% compared to May 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is up to 3 month’s supply from 2 (seller’s market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 41% compared to 56% in April 2024, 86% in May 2023, and 30% in May 2022.

Month-over-month, the house price index is down 0.8% and in the last 6 months up 4.9%.

Maple Ridge: Total Units Sold in May were 172 – down from 191 (10%) in April, down from 187 (8%) in March, down from 218 (21%) in May 2023, down from 178 (3%) in May 2022, down from 286 (40%) in May 2021, up from 111 (55%) in May 2020, and up from 171 (1%) in May 2019; Active Listings were at 850 at month end compared to 539 at that time last year (up 57%) and 817 at the end of April (up 4%); New Listings in May were down 9% compared to April 2024, up 16% compared to May 2023, down 23% compared to May 2022, up 1% compared to May 2021, up 96% compared to May 2020, and up 10% compared to May 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is up to 5 month’s supply from 4 (balanced market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 42% compared to 43% in April 2024, 63% in May 2023, and 39% in May 2022.

Month-over-month, the house price index is up 0.2% and in the last 6 months up 3.3%. 

Ladner: Total Units Sold in May were 33 – the as 33 in April, up from 30 (10%) in March, down from 54 (39%) in May 2023, up from 28 (18%) in May 2022, down from 49 (33%) in May 2021, up from 20 (65%) in May 2020, and down from 41 (20%) in May 2019; Active Listings were at 139 at month end compared to 85 at that time last year (up 64%) and 121 at the end of April (up 15%); New Listings in May were down 4% compared to April 2024, up 52% compared to May 2023, up 15% compared to May 2022, up 17% compared to May 2021, up 58% compared to May 2020, and down 12% compared to May 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is steady at 4 month’s supply (seller’s market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 43% compared to 42% in April 2024, 108% in May 2023, and 42% in May 2022.

Month-over-month, the house price index is down 0.1% and in the last 6 months up 3.4%. 

Tsawwassen: Total Units Sold in May were 40 – down from 51 (22%) in April, up from 34 (18%) in March, down from 62 (35%) in May 2023, down from 44 (9%) in May 2022, down from 95 (58%) in May 2021, up from 35 (14%) in May 2020, and up from 38 (5%) in May 2019; Active Listings were at 218 at month end compared to 166 at that time last year (up 31%) and 204 at the end of April (up 7%); New Listings in May were down 7% compared to April 2024, up 9% compared to May 2023, down 12% compared to May 2022, down 23% compared to May 2021, up 14% compared to May 2020, and up 5% compared to May 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is up to 5 month’s supply from 4 (balanced market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 40% compared to 48% in April 2024, 68% in May 2023, and 39% in May 2022. 

Month-over-month, the house price index is down 0.6% and in the last 6 months up 2.9%. 

Fraser Valley: Sales in May were up 3.1%, compared to April and were down 11.3% from April 2023. New listings were down 5.4% from April and up 6.4% from May 2023.The average price was up 2.5% month-over-month and is down 2.2% year-over-year. Active listings were up 8.1% to 7,904 from 7,313 last month and up 42.2% from May 2023 which was at 5,558. The Fraser Valley showed more sales activity in comparison to April this year and May last year, while seeing a slower growth in listings. 

“We are seeing an influx of inventory this spring, primarily due to slower than usual spring sales,” said Jeff Chadha, Chair of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board. “Growing inventory levels are helping to create a healthy balance in the market, giving buyers more options, especially as prices continue to flatten.” 

Highlights of Dexter’s February 2024 report

• Buyers continue to show up! Number of sales in Greater Vancouver were up 45% from January

• Sellers starting to show up, the number of new listings were up 20% from January 

• Bank of Canada continues the holding pattern on its rate – fixed rates declining 

• Sales in West Vancouver up 143% compared to January

At the mid-point of February, this month was as much a dark horse to hit 2,000 sales in Greater Vancouver as Billy Mack was to hit the #1 Christmas Song in Love Actually… and like this movie being 20 years old, the sales and new listings amounts feel like they are from 20 years ago. Lack of buyer and seller engagement continues to be one of the significant stories in the market. And as we’ve said before, Metro Vancouver real estate doesn’t have a speculation problem, it has a holding problem. Buyers are holding real estate and not turning into sellers which results in significantly less homes available for other buyers to purchase. But government policy continues to go after the demand side instead of encouraging supply from the existing home stock. Expecting new home construction to fill the void isn’t enough nor realistic.

With the Bank of Canada holding their rate at 5% at the latest meeting this morning, and with the U.S. holding at 5.5% so far this year, the wait continues as to when we might see the first rate cut. The sentiment is that it’s coming. Canadian and U.S. inflation is showing signs of easing, and with the Canadian economy showing signs of weakness, logic would say that rates should be coming down sooner rather than later. Employment numbers remain relatively flat though which isn’t helping in the obvious decision. Canada will likely wait for our neighbours to the south to make the first move, which may come in June when the U.S. has its more in-depth policy decision meeting.

There were 2,070 properties sold in Greater Vancouver in February after, 1,427 properties sold in January this year. This was a 13% increase from the 1,824 properties sold last year in February. Even with one more day in February this year, there were 103.5 sales per day compared to 96 sales per day last year. So, we can’t fully thank the extra day in the leap year for a better February. There is more buyer engagement. The latter half of the month certainly produced more sales, with the last week of the month showing 116 sales per day. A sign the real estate market is continuing to show more activity. This was also the first month where total sales were over 2,000 since August of last year as the fall suffered the fate of two summer interest rate increases by the Bank of Canada. Optimism is gaining in the market as buyers simply need to move on – literally. 

With this increase in activity, sales in February were 23% below the 10-year average, after sales in January were 22% below the 10-year average with sales in December 37% below the 10-year average and November’s sales at 35% below the 10-year average. We’re still within a slower moving market, and with a few more listings coming on this month, buyers were given opportunity. And moving forward, they should take advantage of it. February isn’t traditionally a strong month for sales, so expect March to produce more sales, even with spring break in the middle of it.

With the increase sales, we saw a drop to 5 months supply of homes overall in Greater Vancouver, falling back from 6 months in January and 7 months supply in December. Vancouver’s West Side dropped down to 6 months supply from 8 in January and Vancouver’s East Side declined to 4 months (a technical seller’s market) from 6 months in January. Vancouver saw fewer new listings in February compared to other areas of the region, while sales were up 53% compared to January on the West Side and 52% on the East Side. West Vancouver produced twice as many sales in February, bringing months supply down to 9 from 21. Detached sales in each of these cities showing more growth than the other sectors, signalling the upper end of the market is coming back perhaps. The perpetually under supplied North Vancouver dropped down to 3 months supply with condos there at 2 months supply. Further east, Burnaby and beyond have 4 months supply of homes available, with the Tri-Cities down to 3 months supply. Maple Ridge is the anomaly with 5 months supply after significant increase in new listings – up 92% compared to February last year and to 54% compared to January. Active listing counts are up 47% compared to this time last year. Buyers, Maple Ridge is where the opportunities are!

Even with the extra day in the month, we only saw 4,651 new listings in Greater Vancouver. This was well above last year’s total of 3,559 new listings, so that’s a good sign that sellers are coming back, perhaps in response to an uptick in buyer activity. Multiple offers have been occurring in the market more than last fall, an encouraging sign for those sellers that were afraid to enter a quiet market.

The challenge of giving up lower mortgage rates continues for many homeowners through, unwilling to enter a higher mortgage rate to make a move. As renewals begin over the next few months and years and as rates start to come down, we’ll see this pent-up supply start to release more into the market. For some sellers, it may be better to take advantage of a lack of listings now and come on the market and work with a mortgage professional to find the right rate for now in anticipation of lower rates in the next few years. Date the rate and marry the house as they say. 

The number of new listings in January were right at the 10-year average, which is an improvement from January where they were 13% below the average and December with the number of new listings in that month being 25% below the 10-year average. 

There were 9,634 active listings in Greater Vancouver at month end, after there being 8,633 active listings in Greater Vancouver at the end of January and 8,283 at the end of February 2023. The detached market overall has come down to 6 months supply from 8, putting it into balanced market territory. Townhomes remain at 4 months supply and condos dropped to 4 months supply from 5 – putting both into seller market conditions. Depending on price point and area though, some may be more in balanced market conditions. Absorption rates for detached were 39% for the month while townhouses and condos were at 48% and 47% respectively. All segments saw lower absorption rates compared to last year in February, because of more new listings this year. As a result, we are seeing a gain in the active listing counts. This could bring more buyers to the market, again, a good sign for sellers.

Will March be the lion or the lamb in the real estate market. With a sizable increase in both sales and new listings in February compared to the previous month, will March continue down that path. After the provincial budget was announced, buyers and sellers will continue to navigate an incredible amount of policy changes by government, with an anti-flipping tax of 20% to start in 2025 introduced by the BC NDP. The likely effect of this in the years to come will be a reduced number of listings as sellers hold on to properties more than they already are. Perhaps we’ll see a push to sell before 2024 ends though. Increased thresholds for the Property Transfer Tax exemptions starting April 1^st will help those buyers purchasing up to $835,000 for resale and up to $1.1 million for newly constructed homes. The first-time homebuyer incentive has been discontinued at the federal level, much to the dismay of Dawson Creek which was the only region of B.C. where the program worked. Goodbye to bad legislation. Unfortunately, that was not the same for the Foreign Buyer Ban as the Federal Liberals announced a further two-year extension on that program which will now run until the end of 2026. All of which do not help but hinder supply of homes, which is the biggest challenge in the housing market, ironically identified by the government too. Too bad policy doesn’t align with reality.

Here’s a summary of the numbers:

Greater Vancouver: Total Units Sold in February were 2,070 - up from 1,427 (45%) in January, up from 1,345 (54%) in December up from 1,824 (13%) in February 2023, down from 3,451 (40%) in February 2022, down from 3,852 (47%) in February 2021, down from 2,185 (5%) in February 2020, up from 1,512 (40%) in February 2019; Active Listings were at 9,634 at month end compared to 8,283 at that time last year and 8,633 at the end of January; New Listings in February were up 20% compared to January 2024, up 9% compared to February 2023, down 10% compared to February 2022, down 10% compared to February 2021, up 13% compared to February 2020, and up 17% compared to February 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is down to 5 month’s supply (balanced market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 45% compared to 37% in January 2024, 51% in February 2023, 62% in February 2022, and 38% in February 2019. Month-over-month, the house price index is up 1.9% and in the last 6 months down 2.1%. Prices appear to be on the upswing after several months of seeing them decline through the fall.

Vancouver Westside: Total Units Sold in February were 374 - up from 245 (53%) in January, up from 235 (59%) in December up from 316 (18%) in February 2023, down from 665 (44%) in February 2022, down from 592 (37%) in February 2021, up from 367 (2%) in February 2020, up from 254 (47%) in February 2019; Active Listings were at 2,148 at month end compared to 1,923 at that time last year and 1,963 at the end of January; New Listings in February were up 10% compared to January 2024, up 31% compared to February 2023, down 15% compared to February 2022, down 1% compared to February 2021, up 32% compared to February 2020, and up 5% compared to February 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is down to 6 month’s supply (balanced market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 40% compared to 29% in January 2024, 44% in February 2023, 61% in February 2022, and 29% in February 2019. Month-over-month, the house price index is up 4.0% and in the last 6 months down 0.7%.

Vancouver East Side: Total Units Sold in February were 249 - up from 164 (52%) in January, up from 148 (68%) in December up from 198 (26%) in February 2023, down from 359 (31%) in February 2022, down from 408 (39%) in February 2021, up from 243 (2%) in February 2020, up from 166 (50%) in February 2019; Active Listings were at 1,109 at month end compared to 900 at that time last year and 990 at the end of January; New Listings in February were up 9% compared to January 2024, up 43% compared to February 2023, down 16% compared to February 2022, down 6% compared to February 2021, up 23% compared to February 2020, and up 41% compared to February 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is down to 4 month’s supply (seller’s market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 46% compared to 33% in January 2024, 52% in February 2023, 55% in February 2022, and 43% in February 2019. Month-over-month, the house price index is up 0.8% and in the last 6 months down 3.5%.

North Vancouver: Total Units Sold in February were 163 - up from 117 (39%) in January, up from 106 (52%) in December up from 1,824 (9%) in February 2023, down from 261 (38%) in February 2022, down from 318 (49%) in February 2021, down from 206 (21%) in February 2020, up from 124 (31%) in February 2019; Active Listings were at 489 at month end compared to 436 at that time last year and 414 at the end of January; New Listings in February were up 27% compared to January 2024, up 35% compared to February 2023, down 16% compared to February 2022, down 20% compared to February 2021, down 8% compared to February 2020, and up 2% compared to February 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is down to 3 month’s supply (seller’s market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 48% compared to 43% in January 2024, 59% in February 2023, 64% in February 2022, and 37% in February 2019. Month-over-month, the house price index is up 1.5% and in the last 6 months down 1.8%.

West Vancouver: Total Units Sold in February were 56 - up from 23 (143%) in January, up from 41 (37%) in December up from 43 (30%) in February 2023, down from 80 (30%) in February 2022, down from 102 (45%) in February 2021, down from 57 (2%) in February 2020, up from 39 (44%) in February 2019; Active Listings were at 526 at month end compared to 443 at that time last year and 483 at the end of January; New Listings in February were down 5% compared to January 2024, up 11% compared to February 2023, down 21% compared to February 2022, up 6% compared to February 2021, up 19% compared to February 2020, and up 1% compared to February 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is down to 9 month’s supply from 21 in January (still buyer’s market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 33% compared to 13% in January 2024, 28% in February 2023, 37% in February 2022, and 23% in February 2019. Month-over-month, the house price index is down 3.7% and in the last 6 months down 6.3%. 

Richmond: Total Units Sold in February were 231 - up from 161 (43%) in January, up from 169 (37%) in December up from 227 (2%) in February 2023, down from 340 (30%) in February 2022, down from 453 (49%) in February 2021, down from 253 (9%) in February 2020, up from 155 (49%) in February 2019; Active Listings were at 1,088 at month end compared to 1,036 at that time last year and 1,014 at the end of January; New Listings in February were up 13% compared to January 2024, up 1% compared to February 2023, down 34% compared to February 2022, down 30% compared to February 2021, down 8% compared to February 2020, and down 2% compared to February 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is down to 5 month’s supply (balanced market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 50% compared to 39% in January 2024, 49% in February 2023, 56% in February 2022, and 33% in February 2019. Month-over-month, the house price index is up 2.9% and in the last 6 months down 1.2%.

Burnaby East: Total Units Sold in February were 25 - up from 17 (47%) in January, up from 18 (39%) in December up from 21 (19%) in February 2023, down from 34 (24%) in February 2022, down from 41 (37%) in February 2021, down from 32 (22%) in February 2020, up from 17 (47%) in February 2019; Active Listings were at 94 at month end compared to 71 at that time last year and 77 at the end of January; New Listings in February were up 20% compared to January 2024, up 200% compared to February 2023, down 7% compared to February 2022, down 6% compared to February 2021, up 58% compared to February 2020, and up 67% compared to February 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is down to 4 month’s supply (seller’s market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 42% compared to 34% in January 2024, 105% in February 2023, 52% in February 2022, and 47% in February 2019. Month-over-month, the house price index is up 0.2% and in the last 6 months down 2.6%.

Burnaby North: Total Units Sold in February were 121 - up from 88 (38%) in January, up from 91 (33%) in December down from 134 (2%) in February 2023, down from 226 (46%) in February 2022, down from 193 (37%) in February 2021, up from 100 (21%) in February 2020, up from 84 (44%) in February 2019; Active Listings were at 447 at month end compared to 380 at that time last year and 387 at the end of January; New Listings in February were up 35% compared to January 2024, up 22% compared to February 2023, down 20% compared to February 2022, down 6% compared to February 2021, up 29% compared to February 2020, and up 56% compared to February 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is steady at 4 month’s supply (seller’s market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 49% compared to 48% in January 2024, 66% in February 2023, 72% in February 2022, and 53% in February 2019. Month-over-month, the house price index is up 1.6% and in the last 6 months down 1.7%.

Burnaby South: Total Units Sold in February were 109 - up from 102 (7%) in January, up from 79 (38%) in December down from 118 (8%) in February 2023, down from 200 (45%) in February 2022, down from 201 (46%) in February 2021, up from 105 (4%) in February 2020, up from 83 (31%) in February 2019; Active Listings were at 425 at month end compared to 377 at that time last year and 398 at the end of January; New Listings in February were down 2% compared to January 2024, up 1% compared to February 2023, down 27% compared to February 2022, down 23% compared to February 2021, up 9% compared to February 2020, and up 0.5% compared to February 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is steady at 4 month’s supply (seller’s market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 52% compared to 48% in January 2024, 57% in February 2023, 70% in February 2022, and 40% in February 2019. Month-over-month, the house price index is up 1.6% and in the last 6 months down 2.1%.

New Westminster: Total Units Sold in February were 79 - up from 54 (46%) in January, up from 46 (72%) in December up from 66 (20%) in February 2023, down from 159 (50%) in February 2022, down from 164 (52%) in February 2021, down from 90 (12%) in February 2020, up from 63 (25%) in February 2019; Active Listings were at 300 at month end compared to 222 at that time last year and 242 at the end of January; New Listings in February were up 43% compared to January 2024, up 79% compared to February 2023, down 15% compared to February 2022, down 12% compared to February 2021, up 25% compared to February 2020, and up 16% compared to February 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is steady at 4 month’s supply (seller’s market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 41% compared to 40% in January 2024, 62% in February 2023, 70% in February 2022, and 38% in February 2019. Month-over-month, the house price index is up 0.7% and in the last 6 months down 3.1%.

Coquitlam: Total Units Sold in February were 189 - up from 112 (69%) in January, up from 119 (59%) in December up from 158 (20%) in February 2023, down from 264 (28%) in February 2022, down from 322 (41%) in February 2021, down from 196 (4%) in February 2020, up from 134 (41%) in February 2019; Active Listings were at 599 at month end compared to 466 at that time last year and 521 at the end of January; New Listings in February were up 29% compared to January 2024, up 56% compared to February 2023, down 17% compared to February 2022, down 9% compared to February 2021, up 13% compared to February 2020, and up 28% compared to February 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is down to 3 month’s supply (seller’s market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 51% compared to 39% in January 2024, 67% in February 2023, 59% in February 2022, and 46% in February 2019. Month-over-month, the house price index is up 2.4% and in the last 6 months down 1.8%.

Port Moody: Total Units Sold in February were 46 - up from 31 (48%) in January, up from 25 (84%) in December down from 47 (2%) in February 2023, down from 87 (47%) in February 2022, down from 92 (50%) in February 2021, up from 36 (28%) in February 2020, up from 30 (53%) in February 2019; Active Listings were at 131 at month end compared to 200 at that time last year and 122 at the end of January; New Listings in February were up 47% compared to January 2024, down 11% compared to February 2023, down 32% compared to February 2022, down 38% compared to February 2021, down 26% compared to February 2020, and up 1% compared to February 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is down to 3 month’s supply (seller’s market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 57% compared to 55% in January 2024, 52% in February 2023, 73% in February 2022, and 40% in February 2019. Month-over-month, the house price index is up 1.0% and in the last 6 months down 2.2%.

Port Coquitlam: Total Units Sold in February were 64 - up from 43 (49%) in January, up from 36 (78%) in December up from 40 (60%) in February 2023, down from 108 (40%) in February 2022, down from 122 (48%) in February 2021, down from 83 (23%) in February 2020, up from 60 (7%) in February 2019; Active Listings were at 198 at month end compared to 140 at that time last year and 155 at the end of January; New Listings in February were up 104% compared to January 2024, up 71% compared to February 2023, down 3% compared to February 2022, down 13% compared to February 2021, up 17% compared to February 2020, and up 6% compared to February 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is down to 3 month’s supply (seller’s market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 43% compared to 59% in January 2024, 46% in February 2023, 71% in February 2022, and 43% in February 2019. Month-over-month, the house price index is up 3.2% and in the last 6 months down 1.2%.

Pitt Meadows: Total Units Sold in February were 23 - up from 20 (15%) in January, up from 15 (53%) in February 2023, down from 35 (34%) in February 2022, down from 48 (50%) in February 2021, down from 27 (15%) in February 2020, up from 15 (53%) in February 2019; Active Listings were at 64 at month end compared to 62 at that time last year and 57 at the end of January; New Listings in February were up 18% compared to January 2024, up 66% compared to February 2023, down 10% compared to February 2022, down 20% compared to February 2021, down 12% compared to February 2020, and up 10% compared to February 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is steady at 3 month’s supply (seller’s market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 51% compared to 52% in January 2024, 55% in February 2023, 70% in February 2022, and 36% in February 2019. Month-over-month, the house price index is up 2.8% and in the last 6 months down 0.5%.

Maple Ridge: Total Units Sold in February were 145 - up from 106 (37%) in January, up from 129 (12%) in February 2023, down from 224 (35%) in February 2022, down from 292 (50%) in February 2021, down from 177 (18%) in February 2020, up from 100 (45%) in February 2019; Active Listings were at 678 at month end compared to 462 at that time last year and 563 at the end of January; New Listings in February were up 54% compared to January 2024, up 92% compared to February 2023, up 11% compared to February 2022, up 16% compared to February 2021, up 35% compared to February 2020, and up 94% compared to February 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is steady at 5 month’s supply (balanced market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 36% compared to 40% in January 2024, 62% in February 2023, 62% in February 2022, and 48% in February 2019. Month-over-month, the house price index is up 1.1% and in the last 6 months down 3.6%.

Ladner: Total Units Sold in February were 23 - up from 21 (10%) in January, up from 12 (92%) in December down from 27 (15%) in February 2023, down from 26 (12%) in February 2022, down from 61 (63%) in February 2021, down from 36 (36%) in February 2020, up from 20 (15%) in February 2019; Active Listings were at 82 at month end compared to 98 at that time last year and 83 at the end of January; New Listings in February were up 20% compared to January 2024, down 39% compared to February 2023, down 35% compared to February 2022, down 55% compared to February 2021, up 45% compared to February 2020, and up 26% compared to February 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is steady at 4 month’s supply (seller’s market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 62% compared to 46% in January 2024, 44% in February 2023, 46% in February 2022, and 40% in February 2019. Month-over-month, the house price index is up 0.4% and in the last 6 months down 5.0%.  

Tsawwassen: Total Units Sold in February were 38 - up from 24 (58%) in January, up from 21 (81%) in December up from 25 (52%) in February 2023, down from 73 (48%) in February 2022, down from 76 (50%) in February 2021, up from 32 (19%) in February 2020, up from 21 (81%) in February 2019; Active Listings were at 156 at month end compared to 146 at that time last year and 139 at the end of January; New Listings in February were up 47% compared to January 2024, up 42% compared to February 2023, down 26% compared to February 2022, down 27% compared to February 2021, up 39% compared to February 2020, and up 36% compared to February 2019. Month’s supply of total residential listings is down to 4 month’s supply (seller’s market conditions) and sales to listings ratio of 51% compared to 47% in January 2024, 47% in February 2023, 72% in February 2022, and 38% in February 2019. Month-over-month, the house price index is up 0.7% and in the last 6 months down 1.4%.

Fraser Valley: Sales in February were up 32% from January and up 38% from February 2023. New listings were up 18% from January and up 44% from February 2023. While the average price was down 0.1% month-over-month, it is up 8% year-over-year. Active listings were up 14% to 5,561 from 4,877 last month but up 26% from February 2023. After seeing steep declines, active listing counts in the region are climbing. It was a very precipitous decline over the last 3 months. Month-over-month, the house price index is up 0.9% and in the last 6 months down 4.2%. 

“There is somewhat of a buzz in the market right now,” said Narinder Bains, Chair of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board. “We are seeing new listings come onto the market and REALTORS® continue to see more traffic at open houses, however buyers are still exercising caution. We aren’t out of the woods just yet, but the signs are pointing to a further increase in activity as we head into spring.” 

Highlights of Dexter’s October 2023 Report

• Economists now predict interest rates will fall by 2.5%

• Median home prices are down this year in virtually every Metro market 

• Priciest detached markets lead the sales curve in Metro Vancouver 

• Province mandates 2-4 housing units on every detached house lot 

• Buyer’s market conditions now dominate suburban housing markets

Sometimes you just wonder about the short memories of Metro Vancouver home buyers and sellers. How many times have people been moaning about a tick-up in mortgage rates, about a perceived lack of homes, about too many investors and the lack of affordability. About world events hurtling us to a recession.

Plenty, so it sounds as familiar today as it did in say 2000, or in the misty past of four weeks ago when headlines and pundits were all about a housing shortage, soaring interest rates and rising home prices. 

Yet, if one looks at the Metro Vancouver market this October of 2023, it is the most welcoming environment in years for both buyers and sellers.  But many appear blinded by the brilliance of what is in plain sight. Is it time for a reality check?

Housing shortage?  The Canadian Press headline this week is “Housing supply outpacing demand in Vancouver market.” This is because there are now 11,599 homes for sale in Greater Vancouver, up 12.6% from a year ago and above the 10-year average. The Fraser Valley has another 6,580 active listings, 17% higher than in October 2022. That is a total of more than 18,000 residential properties for sale, yet total October sales in the entire region were less than 3,000. Message: there is a terrific selection of homes for sale right across the Lower Mainland.

Soaring interest rates? The Bank of Canada did not increase interest rates at the October setting and now there is growing belief that rates will be coming down, perhaps as early in Q2 2024.  Economists, including those at Desjardins. “We’re not going back to zero. But I could see rates falling to about 2.5% in terms of the Bank of Canada’s policy rate,” Desjardins told Bloomberg News. Among the reasons is that many people who took out mortgages during the 2020-21 boom will renewing next year and the Bank of Canada is feeling the pressure. 

Rising home prices? The median price of a detached house over the first 10 months of this year is down in nearly every market except Vancouver, West Vancouver and Surrey. The median – when half the prices are above and half below the line – provides a clear trendline. For clarity the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver uses median prices to show year-over-year and month-over-month trends in its internal sales and listing reports. This shows that, since October 2022, detached house prices are down $126,500 in both Burnaby and South Delta; down $168,000 in Port Moody, $50,000 lower in Richmond and down $100,000 in North Vancouver. 

For buyers this is great time to be shopping for a home, with lower prices, a huge selection and stable and soon to be falling mortgage rates. Buyers are very price sensitive  and there is a feeling of being able to negotiate and having the upper hand on sellers. While some areas may appear to be in a seller’s market, buyers don’t believe it and are trying to get the deals they have long been hoping for. This will continue into 2024 until the first interest rate declines start. Buyers, your time is now.

Sellers, especially those in top-tier markets of Vancouver and West Vancouver, or with prime listings anywhere, are attracting traffic and there have been some multiple offers.  In many markets, including North Vancouver, Burnaby South, Port Moody, New Westminster and Ladner, the sales-to-new-listing ratio is higher than 50% and competing bids are not unheard of in the current market.

There is also a wild card in the housing mix now. The B.C. Housing Ministry has confirmed that every detached housing lot in the province (except Vancouver, which has a similar density plan) will now be allowed to add three to four new housing units. But it is up to the discretion of the host municipality whether these new units are rentals or strata units, or a combination of both. (Most members of the Union of B.C. Municipalities appear to be leaning towards rentals.) Investors should ascertain what type of housing will be allowed under the local upzoning, but the new rules will certainly increase the demand for single-detached properties and land assemblies right across the province.

One thing is likely certain: five, 10 or even one year from now, many will be looking back to the autumn of 2023 and saying, ”I should have bought then.”

Regional Reports for Metro Vancouver October 2023 

Greater Vancouver: Total residential sales just missed the 2,000 mark, reaching 1,996 in October, which was up 4% from a month earlier and also up 4% from October of 2022. We are seeing a balanced market with total listings of 11,599, up from 10,305 a year ago. The sales-to-new-listing ratio is running at 42%, down from 47% in October 2022 but reflective of a solid market. By property type, the sales ratio to total active listings is 12.9 per cent for detached houses, 20.9 per cent for attached, and 21.5 per cent for apartments. The benchmark price for all residential properties is currently $1,196,500, a 4.4% increase over October 2022 and a 0.6% decrease compared to September 2023. The benchmark price for a detached home is $2,001,400.This is a 5.8% increase from October 2022 and a 0.8% decrease compared to September 2023. The benchmark price of an apartment home is $770,200, up 6.4% from October 2022. The townhouse benchmark price is $1,100,500, up 6% from last October. All strata prices were up 0.2% compared to September 2023.

Vancouver Westside: It is the higher end of the housing ladder that is holding firm on the Westside. Despite a median price of $3.36 million more detached houses – 71 – sold in October than in a month or a year earlier and were the second highest of any Greater Vancouver market. The sales-to-listing ratio for detached houses, at 45% was the highest for any sector on the Westside. At the same time, when the most expensive new condo tower – Curv - began pre-selling in the West End, 100 condos sold despite starting prices at more than $2,000 per square foot.  Even with total condo sales down from September, October condo transactions averaged 8 per day at a median price of $844,800. Two-bedroom condos are the tougher sale in this current market. This is flagged as a buyer’s market due to a higher supply, but with a 35% sales ratio despite an increase in active listings to 2,629 properties.

Vancouver East Side: Townhouse and duplex sales almost doubled in October compared to September, with the benchmark townhouse price up 10% year-over-year to $1,118,500. Detached house sales, at 78, were the highest in Greater Vancouver with a median price of $2,045,000. Total units sold in October were 231 up 20% from both September 2023 and October 2022. The supply of total residential listings is down to 5-month’s supply and the sales-to -listings ratio of 41% compares to 31% in September 2023 and 44% in October 2022. This is technically a balanced market, but it feels like a seller’s advantage at times.

North Vancouver: With total transactions of 194, October marked the highest monthly sales since June 2023 and slightly higher (up 0.5%) from October 2022. Condos led the sales pace, with 98 transactions at median of $826,500, while 59 detached house sold at a median of $2,050,000 – a price $50,000 lower than a year ago. Active listings were at 621 at month end compared to 614 at that time last year and 627 at the end of September, but new listings in October were down 22% compared to September. This is a seller’s market with total residential listings down to a 3 month’s supply and sales to listings ratio of 52% compared to 35% in September 2023.

West Vancouver:  Evan at a median price of $3,650,000, detached house sales led the West Vancouver market, with 27 sales, tied with the same month a year earlier, though condos posted the strongest uptake, with 60% of the new listings selling at a median of $1,320,000, by far the highest price of any B.C. market. Total active listings were 609 at month end compared to 589 at that time last year and 626 at the end of September , though new listings in October were down 33% compared to September 2023. This is a buyer’s market, despite the premium prices, with an 11-month supply of listings and a sales ratio of 32%, highest for an October in two years.

Richmond: This is a buyer’s market due to the healthy six-month supply of 1,268 active listings, but sellers are still attracting buyers, as total monthly transactions are steady at 217,  the benchmark price 5.6% higher than in October 2022 and the sales-to-listing ratio is running at 45%, up from 43% in September 2023. A glitch is in the condo market, especially in new projects, where an October sales downturn is related both to higher lending rates and new  provincial legislation banning many short-term rentals. Still, benchmark condo prices remain 10% higher than a year ago, at $736,400. Benchmark detached house prices, at $2,155,600, have not budged in six months.

Burnaby East: This is the only balanced market in Burnaby, with 21 total sales in October and active listings at 105 at month end, resulting in a 5-month supply of listings and new listings selling at ratio of 45%. Benchmark prices are also balanced, with the composite up 1% from September 2023 at $1,192,600, the highest in Burnaby.

Burnaby North: A seller’s market in October saw total sales jump 21% from a month earlier to 137 transactions as new listings dropped 4% and the sales-to-listing ratio firmed at 47%, nearly equal to October 2023. With a total 4-month supply of active listings and benchmark prices up across all sectors, sellers are excited. Higher demand is expected for detached houses as the provincial zoning for two to four new housing units on detached lots rolls out. The Burnaby mayor fears speculation will drive house prices – already up 7.2% from a year ago in North Burnaby to $2,070,000 – even higher. 

Burnaby South: With the highest benchmark detached house prices in Burnaby, at $2,199,700 in October, and total sales at 120, nearly even with a year ago, this is a seller’s market. There were just 515 active listings at months end and new listings were down 19% from September. With a just a 4-month supply and the sales ratio at healthy 53%, this is could be the hottest Burnaby market this autumn. 

New Westminster: Detached house buyers are apparently discovering that New Westminster prices, now benchmarked at $1,550,700, are about $200K to $500K lower than in neighbouring Burnaby or Coquitlam and just 3.2% higher than a year ago. The higher detached sales in October– at 16 nearly double that in October 2022 – could also reflect investors looking to assemble lots because the Royal City is keen on the new provincial higher-density regulations. Note that the townhouse benchmark price is $963,700, so adding 2 strata units to a detached lot should prove profitable. All in all, this is a seller’s market with a tight 4-month supply of total listings and a sales-to-listing ratio at 53%.

Coquitlam: Total sales in October were down 2%, to 170 transactions, from September 2023 and new listings dipped 8% month-over-month in an active but balanced Coquitlam market. Prices are firm, with detached benchmarks virtually unchanged in three months at $1,796,500. It is ditto for townhouses, at $1,062,000; and condo apartments, where the $723,300 benchmark was up just 1% from six months ago. Total residential listings are up to 5 month’s supply and the sales-to-listings ratio of 41% compares to 38% in September 2023 and 58% in October 2022. 

Port Moody: With the highest home benchmark price in the TriCities, at $1,139,900 in October, this is a seller’s market with a strong overall sales-to-listing ratio of 60% and just a 3-month supply of listings. Total sales in October, at 51, were up 16% from September 2023 and 16% higher than a year earlier. Supply of new homes will begin to increase in 2024 as two large single-family and multi-family projects start to take shape.

Port Coquitlam: While total transactions dipped down 17% from September to 54 sales in October, this small city remains a seller’s market, with a total sales-to-listing ratio of 47% . With a benchmark price of $954,500 and condo apartments at $631,000, these are the lowest in the TriCities, which keeps Port Coquitlam popular with buyers, who now have more than 200 active listings to choose from.  

Pitt Meadows: With a benchmark home price of $925,800, Pitt Meadows has been an affordable market that has attracted a lot of development in the past three years. However, this will be a challenge soon as the city plans to boost community amenity contributions (CACs) for new housing, as most larger centres already have. The proposed increases, to be decided Nov. 7, 2023, are: single-family houses, from $4,500 to $5,200; Townhouses up $600 to $4,600; and condo apartments up $500 to $3,500 per unit. The CACs are on top of development cost charges from the city and Metro Vancouver. This is a seller’s market, with just 91 active listings and a sales ratio of 44% in both October and September.  There were only 6 condo listings and 20 townhouses listings as of the end of October. 

Maple Ridge: Total sales in October were 110 up from 108 in September 2023 and up from 99 in October 2022. This is now a buyer’s market with a steady 7-month supply of total listings, 747, at month’s end and a sales ratio of 33%. The detached house price index has tracked down 2.1% over the past three months to $1,280,100 and townhouse benchmarks are unchanged since August at $771,300, with condo prices dipping to $531,600, the lowest in Greater Vancouver.

Ladner: Talk about a balanced market: Ladner’s 24 total sales in October were the same as in October 2022 and the sales-to-listing ratio was 50%. Active listings were at 119 at month end compared to 117 at the end of September. The composite benchmark home price is $1,116,200, nearly unchanged (down 1.8%) from three months ago. We have long wondered how Ladner has missed the boat on developing its downtown waterfront, which could be a terrific residential and retail opportunity.

Tsawwassen: Western Investor, a popular real estate publication, has named South Delta, primarily Tsawwassen, as one of the top 5 towns for real estate investing in 2024, citing the go-ahead for the giant Roberts Bank port and the new Massey Tunnel project. However, October sales, at just 27, were down 36% from a month earlier and 4% lower than a year ago, so the hype may be premature. This is a buyer’s market right now, with a 7-month supply of listings (188), a sale-to-listing ratio of 36% and the benchmark home price unchanged from a year ago at $1,128,900. It could be the time to get in early.

Surrey: The average detached house price in Surrey increased 9.5% year-over-year to $1,690,000 in October and shot up 9.8% to just over $2 million in South Surrey-White Rock, and total detached sales increased 12.4% from October 2022 to 145 transactions. Detached sales in the city are outperforming the strata sector, as the lower-priced products are more sensitive to interest rates. “What we’re seeing in the Fraser Valley and indeed across the province is the impact of sustained high interest rates,” said Narinder Bains, chair of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board. “We anticipate the trend will continue until we start to see some downward movement in the [Bank of Canada] rate.”