Is this the real life? or is this just fantasy? Caught in a landslide, no escape from reality? The lyrics fit well right now.  After seeing real estate sales in July be the highest in three years, the questions have been bouncing around as to whether this is a short-term result or a market intent on continuing to produce through the rest of 2020. With all that is happening in our world, it’s easy to contemplate the downside. We would be naïve to think that COVID-19 isn’t going to be a factor going forward – both in terms of the virus itself, or the economic conditions resulting from shutting down parts of society to deal with it. What we know is what is currently happening  though– interest rates are the lowest they have ever been, pent up demand from over two years, not to mention the shut down in March and April, and a strong desire to find a different home have propelled the real estate market to where we are now. All these factors should not be underestimated in how the market will perform going forward.

There were 3,202 properties sold of all types in Greater Vancouver in July this year compared with 2,497

sold in June, 2,584 sales in July last year and 2,108 sold in July 2018. It was actually the seventh highest amount of sales for the month of July on record and the highest monthly sales amount since June 2017. Total home sales in July were 14 per cent above the ten-year average for the month and July saw the continued increase in the number of sales, week by week since the pandemic took hold. Looking at the different types of homes, detached home sales were up 33 per cent year over year, townhouses up 28 per cent year over year, apartments up 12 per cent year over year. Buyers have shown more interest in real estate with space over the last few months, but that doesn’t necessarily mean condos aren’t getting interest. We are still seeing multiple offers with them, with even the higher end of the condo market starting to see sales occurring where they had been absent in the previous months.

2020 Average Daily Sales in Greater Vancouver by Week:

First two weeks of March – 253 new listings, 138 sales

Last two week of March – 167 New Listings, 98 Sales

April – 120 new listings, 56 sales

May – 189 new listings, 75 sales

June 1 to 5 – 271 new listings, 88 sales

June 8 to 12 – 272 new listings, 107 sales

June 15 to 19 – 274 new listings, 120 sales

June 22 to 26 – 241 new listings, 129 sales

June 29 to July 3 – 311 new listings, 133 sales

July 6 to 10 – 302 new listings, 138 sales

July 13 to 17 – 294 new listings, 146 sales

July 20 to 24 – 258 new listings, 151 sales

July 27 to 31 – 245 new listings, 154 sales

Some highlights from July:

• East Vancouver, North Vancouver, New Westminster, Coquitlam, Port Moody, Port Coquitlam, Pitt Meadows and Maple Ridge are all down to 3 month’s supply of active listings – Townhouses in Port Coquitlam are down to one-month supply
• Richmond showed greater strength in the townhouse and condo market compared to the detached market with detached still in balanced to buyer’s market conditions while townhouses and condos have moved into seller’s market conditions
• The number of detached homes available has declined by 28 percent compared to July last year, while townhouses and condos have declined 17 per cent and 15 per cent respectively
• Vancouver’s Westside and Burnaby South had less sales in July this year compared to July last year – down 3 per cent and 25 per cent respectively which wasn’t consistent with all other areas

We saw a slight increase in the number of new listings in July, which was 22 per cent higher than the ten-year average for the month of July. As a result, at the end of July there were 12,796 homes for sale, compared to 12,146 at the end of June but still less than the 15,037 available at the end of July 2019 – a 15 per cent reduction in the number of homes available year-over-year. There is still a limited amount of homes available for sale which is resulting in multiple offers still occurring in all segments of the market – including two properties in Vancouver listed over $8 million that sold over the list price. Metro Vancouver isn’t the only place that is experiencing this. Throughout Canada and the United States, the number of homes for sale is down year-over-year. Even with the higher number of active listings last year those inventories were still low considering the lack of sales activity in the market here in Metro Vancouver. While we don’t know how long the pent-up demand will play out, the number of homes for sale is not likely to increase enough. Unlike recent reports of significant increase in condos for sale in Toronto, we still have a lack of supply here with Vancouver’s Westside condos at 5 month’s supply and Vancouver’s East side at 3 month’s supply.

What’s next? Will August continue the trend of a real estate market on the rise. For Greater Vancouver, the pent-up demand is not just from COVID but from almost three years of the market reacting to new taxes and restrictions on buyers. At some point activity would have increased and we saw that trend emerging just prior to COVID. Key points to consider are that interest rates are going to remain low in the years to come, real estate will be seen as a better long term investment vehicle and home owners are going to continue to look at the space they are living in and consider alternative locations or types of homes for the next phase of their life. That has been a theme over the last few months, and with the continued presence of COVID, we’ve likely seen just the start of homeowners making “COVID” moves. And when mobility increases within Canada and from outside, British Columbia and especially Metro Vancouver is going to be seen as a destination once again and likely more so than ever before. How we’ve fared thus far in COVID times has not gone unnoticed – especially from our neighbours to the south.

“We’re seeing the results today of pent up activity, from both home buyers and sellers, that had been accumulating in our market throughout the year,” Colette Gerber, REBGV Chair said, “Low interest rates and limited overall supply are also increasing competition across our market.”

East of Vancouver, the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board processed 2,100 sales of all property types on its Multiple Listing Service® in July, an increase of 22.2 per cent compared to sales in June and a 44 per cent decrease compared to the 1,458 sales in July of last year. Last month’s sales were 22.5 per cent above the ten-year average for July and second only to July 2015. There were 3,549 new listings in July, a 2.7 per cent increase compared to June and a 26.9 per cent increase compared to July of last year. July’s new listings were 18.3 per cent above the ten-year average for the month and second only to July 2008. July finished with 7,341 active listings, an increase of 3.9 per cent compared to June’s inventory and a decrease of 12 per cent year-over-year. “In the context of the current pandemic environment, our market is significantly ahead of what we anticipated. We’re seeing the market conditions representing a seller’s market for townhomes and single-family homes in the Fraser Valley. For example, in North Delta, Cloverdale, Langley, Abbotsford and Mission, for every 100 active detached listings, 40 or more sold in July.” Chris Shields, President of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board said. “We attribute it to continued pent-up demand from what would have been a strong spring market for us; and clearly, near record-setting low interest rates. Buyers should take note that in some of our communities, the lack of supply and increase in demand is putting upward pressure on homes prices. The average price of a detached home in our region set a record high in July, last set two years ago during the same month.”

Here’s a summary of the numbers:

Greater Vancouver: Total Units Sold in July was 3,202 – up from 2,497 (28%) in June 2020, up from 2,584 (24%) in July 2019, up from 2,108 (52%) in July 2018; Active Listings are at 12,796 compared to 15,037 (down 15%) at this time last year; New Listings in July were up 3% compared to June 2020, up 30% compared to July 2019 and up 25% compared to July 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is down to 4 Month’s Supply (Balanced Market with strong signs of Seller’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 52% compared to 42% in June 2020, 55% in July 2019 and 43% in July 2018.

Vancouver Westside Residential: Total Units Sold in July was 472 – up from 409 (15%) in June 2020, down from 489 (3%) in July 2019, up from 403 (17%) in July 2018; Active Listings are at 2,489 compared to 2,572 (down 3%) at this time last year; New Listings in July were up 4% compared to June 2020, up 35% compared to July 2019 and up 36% compared to July 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 5 Month’s Supply (Balanced Market with strong signs of Seller’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 39% compared to 35% in June 2020, 40% in July 2019 and 45% in July 2018.

Vancouver East Side Residential: Total Units Sold in July was 344 – up from 280 (23%) in June 2020, up from 277 (24%) in July 2019, up from 227 (52%) in July 2018; Active Listings are at 1,164 compared to 1,341 (down 15%) at this time last year; New Listings in July were up 6% compared to June 2020, up 46% compared to July 2019 and up 27% compared to July 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is down to 3 Month’s Supply (Balanced Market with strong signs of Seller’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 50% compared to 43% in June 2020, 59% in July 2019 and 42% in July 2018.

North Vancouver Residential: Total Units Sold in July was 267 – up from 239 (12%) in June 2020, up from 205 (30%) in July 2019, up from 153 (75%) in July 2018; Active Listings are at 857 compared to 949 (down 10%) at this time last year; New Listings in July were down 6% compared to June 2020, up 35% compared to July 2019 and up 19% compared to July 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 3 Month’s Supply (Mostly Seller’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 54% compared to 45% in June 2020, 56% in July 2019 and 48% in July 2018.

West Vancouver: Total Units Sold in July was 68 – up from 62 (10%) in June 2020, up from 59 (15%) in July 2019, up from 57 (19%) in July 2018; Active Listings are at 638 compared to 726 (down 12%) at this time last year; New Listings in July were down 11% compared to June 2020, up 29% compared to July 2019 and up 13% compared to July 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is down to 9 Month’s Supply (Buyer’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 35% compared to 28% in June 2020, 39% in July 2019 and 33% in July 2018.

Richmond Residential: Total Units Sold in July was 363 – up from 272 (33%) in June 2020, up from 270 (34%) in July 2019, up from 284 (28%) in July 2018; Active Listings are at 1,603 compared to 2,309 (down 31%) at this time last year; New Listings in July were down 1% compared to June 2020, up 2% compared to July 2019 and down 3% compared to July 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is down to 4 Month’s Supply (Balanced Market with signs of Seller’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 58% compared to 43% in June 2020, 49% in July 2019 and 44% in July 2018.

Burnaby East: Total Units Sold in July was 32 – up from 31 (3%) in June 2020, up from 14 (129%) in July 2019, up from 21 (52%) in July 2018; Active Listings are at 139 compared to 166 (down 16%) at this time last year; New Listings in July were up 17% compared to June 2020, up 51% compared to July 2019 and up 24% compared to July 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is down to 4 Month’s Supply (Balanced Market with strong signs of Seller’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 47% compared to 36% in June 2020, 31% in July 2019 and 38% in July 2018.

Burnaby North: Total Units Sold in July was 141 – up from 107 (32%) in June 2020, up from 132 (7%) in July 2019, up from 88 (60%) in July 2018; Active Listings are at 566 compared to 630 (down 10%) at this time last year; New Listings in July were up 18% compared to June 2020, up 40% compared to July 2019 and up 56% compared to July 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is down to 4 Month’s Supply (Balanced Market with strong signs of Seller’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 43% compared to 39% in June 2020, 56% in July 2019 and 42% in July 2018.

Burnaby South: Total Units Sold in July was 114 – up from 93 (23%) in June 2020, up from 97 (14%) in July 2019, up from 76 (50%) in July 2018; Active Listings are at 641 compared to 807 (down 21%) at this time last year; New Listings in July were up 9% compared to June 2020, up 32% compared to July 2019 and up 20% compared to July 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 6 Month’s Supply (Balanced Market with some signs of Seller’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 36% compared to 32% in June 2020, 64% in July 2019 and 29% in July 2018.

New Westminster: Total Units Sold in July was 164 – up from 97 (69%) in June 2020, up from 122 (34%) in July 2019, up from 114 (44%) in July 2018; Active Listings are at 471 compared to 533 (down 12%) at this time last year; New Listings in July were up 7% compared to June 2020, up 40% compared to July 2019 and up 35% compared to July 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is down to 3 Month’s Supply (Mostly Seller’s Market conditions with some areas of Balanced Market Conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 59% compared to 37% in June 2020, 61% in July 2019 and 55% in July 2018.

Coquitlam: Total Units Sold in July was 287 – up from 216 (28%) in June 2020, up from 236 (24%) in July 2019, up from 150 (30%) in July 2018; Active Listings are at 846 compared to 1,120 (down 15%) at this time last year; New Listings in July were down 6% compared to June 2020, down 2% compared to July 2019 and down 8% compared to July 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is down to 3 Month’s Supply (Mostly Seller’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 67% compared to 48% in June 2020, 54% in July 2019 and 32% in July 2018.

Port Moody: Total Units Sold in July was 96 – up from 59 (28%) in June 2020, up from 56 (24%) in July 2019, up from 52 (30%) in July 2018; Active Listings are at 256 compared to 236 (down 15%) at this time last year; New Listings in July were down 3% compared to June 2020, up 92% compared to July 2019 and up 32% compared to July 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is down to 3 Month’s Supply (Mostly Seller’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 67% compared to 40% in June 2020, 75% in July 2019 and 48% in July 2018.

Port Coquitlam: Total Units Sold in July was 119 – up from 91 (28%) in June 2020, up from 86 (24%) in July 2019, up from 84 (30%) in July 2018; Active Listings are at 238 compared to 381 (down 15%) at this time last year; New Listings in July were up 1% compared to June 2020, up 12% compared to July 2019 and down 9% compared to July 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is down to 2 Month’s Supply (Seller’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 70% compared to 54% in June 2020, 57% in July 2019 and 45% in July 2018.

Ladner: Total Units Sold in July was 49 – up from 38 (29%) in June 2020, up from 34 (44%) in July 2019, up from 29 (69%) in July 2018; Active Listings are at 148 compared to 190 (down 22%) at this time last year; New Listings in July were up 18% compared to June 2020, up 22% compared to July 2019 and up 64% compared to July 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is down to 3 Month’s Supply (Mostly Seller’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 68% compared to 62% in June 2020, 58% in July 2019 and 66% in July 2018.

Tsawwassen: Total Units Sold in July was 62 – up from 48 (29%) in June 2020, up from 46 (35%) in July 2019, up from 23 (170%) in July 2018; Active Listings are at 295 compared to 287 (up 3%) at this time last year; New Listings in July were up 10% compared to June 2020, up 80% compared to July 2019 and up 106% compared to July 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is down to 5 Month’s Supply (Balanced Market with strong signs of Seller’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 48% compared to 41% in June 2020, 65% in July 2019 and 37% in July 2018.

Pitt Meadows: Total Units Sold in July was 48 – up from 28 (71%) in June 2020, up from 20 (140%) in July 2019, up from 25 (92%) in July 2018; Active Listings are at 99 compared to 139 (down 28%) at this time last year; New Listings in July were up 15% compared to June 2020, up 24% compared to July 2019 and up 19% compared to July 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is down to 2 Month’s Supply (Mostly Seller’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 77% compared to 51% in June 2020, 40% in July 2019 and 48% in July 2018.

Maple Ridge: Total Units Sold in July was 246 – up from 189 (30%) in June 2020, up from 182 (35%) in July 2019, up from 130 (89%) in July 2018; Active Listings are at 671 compared to 870 (down 22%) at this time last year; New Listings in July were up 11% compared to June 2020, up 13% compared to July 2019 and up 34% compared to July 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is down to 3 Month’s Supply (Mostly Seller’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 67% compared to 57% in June 2020, 56% in July 2019 and 47% in July 2018.

Kevin Skipworth
Managing Broker/Partner/Chief Economist

We have moved into Phase 3 of the British Columbia COVID-19 Restart Plan which will allow for more businesses to open up, movement around the province and improvement in economic conditions. In looking at home sales in June, the real estate market had already moved into its next phase as June began with buyers and seller having become more engaged in real estate. With limited showing measures and the continued focus on virtual means as a way to be introduced to homes for sale, week by week in June home sales kept increasing. There appears to be a renewed fever in the market, with market conditions coming close to resembling those seen at the beginning of March, pre COVID. And as the incidence for COVID-19 continue to be the lowest in Canada and in North America, there will be a positive energy that carries through the region and into real estate. And as the lyrics go from a song released in 1990 – don’t call it a comeback, I’ve been here for years. We shouldn’t be surprised by the resiliency of Metro Vancouver’s real estate market.

There were 2,497 homes sold of all types in Greater Vancouver in June this year compared with 1,506 homes sold in May, 1,119 in April, 2,098 sales in June last year and 2,467 homes sold in June 2018. It was actually the fifth highest amount of sales for a month going back to May 2018. To me that’s improvement and a sign of a real estate market that wants to move – literally. Pent up demand continues to be a factor in the recovery of Metro Vancouver’s real estate market. And realistically, the market can’t be kept down. Two of the slowest years in activity that we’ve seen have put pressure on market activity to increase. In the first half of 2019 there were 10,992 homes sold and in the first half of 2020 there were 11,471 homes sold. That is fairly significant considering half of that period this year was in the midst of a global pandemic.

2020 Average Daily Sales in Greater Vancouver by Week in COVID times:

First two weeks of March – 253 new listings, 138 sales

Last two week of March – 167 New Listings, 98 Sales

April – 120 new listings, 56 sales

May – 189 new listings, 75 sales

June 1 to 5 – 271 new listings, 88 sales

June 8 to 12 – 272 new listings, 107 sales

June 15 to 19 – 274 new listings, 120 sales

June 22 to 26 – 241 new listings, 129 sales

Some highlights from June:

• The move to houses is showing a sign of a trend in Metro Vancouver – North Vancouver house sales were the highest by month in that region in 2020 with 84, compared with 71 and 69 in February and March respectively
• There are 3 months supply of houses and townhouses in North Vancouver – into a seller’s market with sales of condos in June up 100 per cent compared to May – don’t count out the condo market
• There are 3 months supply of houses, and 2 months supply of townhouses and condos in Port Coquitlam – firmly into a seller’s market
• There were 43 per cent more houses sold in West Vancouver in June compared to the same month last year with the average price up 23 per cent from last month
• Sales and new listings in Richmond were at the same levels as June last year while other areas saw increases in both but condo sales in June were 113 per cent higher than May – again, those condos are still in demand

Once again there was an increase in the number of homes available in Greater Vancouver in June. At the end of June there were 12,145 homes for sale, compared to 10,771 at the end of May but still less than the 15,770 available at the end of June 2019 – a 23 per cent reduction in the number of homes available year-over-year. At the end of May there were 30 per cent less homes available compared to the previous year. More choice is available, but that’s also helping to create more home sales. Even with the increase in the number of homes available, it is significantly below the 15,342 average that we’ve seen for the month of June going back to 1995. It would be the expectation that after the halting of market activity starting mid-March there would be a sudden increase in homes coming on the market, but yet there is still a shortage or homes available. 

Predicting Metro Vancouver’s real estate market has long been a fascination of many. Dire predictions make the rounds, but it’s been clear the strength of the market has prevailed. Of course there are economic storm winds ahead, and unknowns as to which path COVID-19 will take but we live in a pretty amazing place and the course of what has happened over the last 4 months is being noticed by many around the world. Our region has and continues to be a safe place to be. Property will always be an investment vehicle, home ownership will always be sought after and with each day, British Columbia continues to shine in the eyes of the world. And while logic would suggest one type of property or area that allows for more separation or that is less densely populated will draw significant activity, every property type and location is unique and will likely perform in ways many wouldn’t have anticipated. Far be it from Metro Vancouver real estate to follow predictability – it always has a surprise up its sleeve.

“REALTORS® continue to optimize new technology tools and practices to help their clients meet their housing needs in a safe and responsible way,” Colette Gerber, REBGV Chair said, “Over the last three months, home buyers and sellers have become more comfortable operating within the physical distancing and other safety protocols in place.”

East of Vancouver, the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board processed 1,718 sales of all property types on its Multiple Listing Service® in June, an increase of 113 per cent compared to sales in May and a 32 per cent decrease compared to the 1,306 sales in June of last year. Last month’s sales were 6.4 per cent below the ten-year average for June. There were 3,456 new listings in June, a 57 per cent increase compared to May and a 23 per cent decrease compared to June of last year. May finished with 7,063 active listings, an increase of 9 per cent compared to May’s inventory and a decrease of 17 per cent year-over-year. “It’s due to a combination of factors. Obviously, very low interest rates, pent-up demand from the previous three months when the market was on hold and the new CMHC rules that came into effect on July 1^st making it harder to qualify for the mortgage insurance.” Chris Shields, President of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board said. “We can’t predict how our market will continue to respond during COVID, but what we do know is that historically, over 80 per cent of Fraser Valley buyers move within our region and half purchase within their own community. People buy and sell for lifestyle reasons and currently, even during this uncertain time, conditions are favourable. The market is balanced, inventory is growing, and prices remain stable.”

Here’s a summary of the numbers:

Greater Vancouver: Total Units Sold in June was 2,497 – up from 1,506 (66%) in May 2020, up from 2,098 (19%) in June 2019, up from 2,467 (1%) in June 2018; Active Listings are at 12,146 compared to 15,770 (down 23%) at this time last year; New Listings in June were up 57% compared to May 2020, up 22% compared to June 2019 and up 9% compared to June 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 5 Month’s Supply (Balanced Market with some Seller’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 42% compared to 40% in May 2020, 43% in June 2019 and 45% in June 2018.

Vancouver Westside Residential: Total Units Sold in June was 409 – up from 264 (55%) in May 2020, up from 355 (15%) in June 2019, down from 458 (11%) in June 2018; Active Listings are at 2,229 compared to 2,779 (down 20%) at this time last year; New Listings in June were up 57% compared to May 2020, up 31% compared to June 2019 and up 19% compared to June 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 5 Month’s Supply (Balanced Market with some Seller’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 35% compared to 36% in May 2020, 40% in June 2019 and 47% in June 2018.

Vancouver East Side Residential: Total Units Sold in June was 280 – up from 167 (68%) in May 2020, up from 215 (30%) in June 2019, down from 282 (1%) in June 2018; Active Listings are at 1,071 compared to 1,435 (down 25%) at this time last year; New Listings in June were up 68% compared to May 2020, up 35% compared to June 2019 and up 5% compared to June 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 4 Month’s Supply (Balanced Market with some Seller’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 43% compared to 43% in May 2020, 44% in June 2019 and 45% in June 2018.

North Vancouver Residential: Total Units Sold in June was 239 – up from 136 (76%) in May 2020, up from 202 (18%) in June 2019, up from 199 (20%) in June 2018; Active Listings are at 815 compared to 1,030 (down 21%) at this time last year; New Listings in June were up 58% compared to May 2020, up 28% compared to June 2019 and up 27% compared to June 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 3 Month’s Supply (Mostly Seller’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 45% compared to 40% in May 2020, 49% in June 2019 and 48% in June 2018.

West Vancouver: Total Units Sold in June was 62 – up from 43 (44%) in May 2020, up from 43 (44%) in June 2019, up from 54 (15%) in June 2018; Active Listings are at 611 compared to 764 (down 20%) at this time last year; New Listings in June were up 55% compared to May 2020, up 23% compared to June 2019 and down 7% compared to June 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 10 Month’s Supply (Buyer’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 28% compared to 30% in May 2020, 24% in June 2019 and 23% in June 2018.

Richmond Residential: Total Units Sold in June was 272 – up from 152 (79%) in May 2020, up from 270 (1%) in June 2019, down from 308 (12%) in June 2018; Active Listings are at 1,599 compared to 2,369 (down 33%) at this time last year; New Listings in June were up 54% compared to May 2020, the same amount as June 2019 and down 10% compared to June 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 6 Month’s Supply (Balanced Market conditions with some multiple offers occurring) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 43% compared to 37% in May 2020, 43% in June 2019 and 44% in June 2018.

Burnaby East: Total Units Sold in June was 21 – up from 18 (17%) in May 2020, up from 19 (11%) in June 2019, down from 26 (19%) in June 2018; Active Listings are at 131 compared to 161 (down 19%) at this time last year; New Listings in June were up 35% compared to May 2020, up 16% compared to June 2019 and up 16% compared to June 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 6 Month’s Supply (Balanced Market with some Seller’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 36% compared to 42% in May 2020, 38% in June 2019 and 52% in June 2018.

Burnaby North: Total Units Sold in June was 107 – up from 79 (35%) in May 2020, up from 100 (7%) in June 2019, 107 in June 2018; Active Listings are at 490 compared to 670 (down 27%) at this time last year; New Listings in June were up 75% compared to May 2020, up 19% compared to June 2019 and up 7% compared to June 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 5 Month’s Supply (Balanced Market with some Seller’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 39% compared to 50% in May 2020, 43% in June 2019 and 41% in June 2018.

Burnaby South: Total Units Sold in June was 93 – up from 64 (45%) in May 2020, down from 121 (23%) in June 2019, down from 121 (23%) in June 2018; Active Listings are at 562 compared to 872 (down 36%) at this time last year; New Listings in June were up 123% compared to May 2020, up 8% compared to June 2019 and up 17% compared to June 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 6 Month’s Supply (Balanced Market with some Seller’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 32% compared to 50% in May 2020, 45% in June 2019 and 49% in June 2018.

New Westminster: Total Units Sold in June was 97 – up from 73 (33%) in May 2020, 97  in June 2019, down from 141 (31%) in June 2018; Active Listings are at 454 compared to 577 (down 21%) at this time last year; New Listings in June were up 67% compared to May 2020, up 29% compared to June 2019 and up 12% compared to June 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 5 Month’s Supply (Balanced Market with some Seller’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 37% compared to 47% in May 2020, 48% in June 2019 and 61% in June 2018.

Coquitlam: Total Units Sold in June was 216 – up from 132 (64%) in May 2020, up from 177 (22%) in June 2019, up from 178 (21%) in June 2018; Active Listings are at 856 compared to 1,159 (down 26%) at this time last year; New Listings in June were up 24% compared to May 2020, up 17% compared to June 2019 and the same compared to June 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 4 Month’s Supply (Balanced Market with some Seller’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 48% compared to 36% in May 2020, 46% in June 2019 and 40% in June 2018.

Port Moody: Total Units Sold in June was 59 – up from 46 (28%) in May 2020, up from 42 (40%) in June 2019, up from 48 (23%) in June 2018; Active Listings are at 256 compared to 266 (down 4%) at this time last year; New Listings in June were up 53% compared to May 2020, up 68% compared to June 2019 and up 22% compared to June 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 4 Month’s Supply (Balanced Market with some Seller’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 40% compared to 47% in May 2020, 48% in June 2019 and 40% in June 2018.

Port Coquitlam: Total Units Sold in June was 91 – up from 60 (52%) in May 2020, up from 77 (18%) in June 2019, down from 108 (16%) in June 2018; Active Listings are at 228 compared to 381 (down 40%) at this time last year; New Listings in June were up 85% compared to May 2020, down 4% compared to June 2019 and down 2% compared to June 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 3 Month’s Supply (Balanced Market with mostly Seller’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 54% compared to 66% in May 2020, 44% in June 2019 and 50% in June 2018.

Ladner: Total Units Sold in June was 38 – up from 20 (90%) in May 2020, up from 29 (31%) in June 2019, the same as in June 2018; Active Listings are at 154 compared to 207 (down 26%) at this time last year; New Listings in June were up 27% compared to May 2020, down 13% compared to June 2019 and down 14% compared to June 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 4 Month’s Supply (Balanced Market with some Seller’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 62% compared to 42% in May 2020, 47% in June 2019 and 54% in June 2018.

Tsawwassen: Total Units Sold in June was 48 – up from 35 (37%) in May 2020, up from 35 (37%) in June 2019, up from 42 (14%) in June 2018; Active Listings are at 270 compared to 310 (down 13%) at this time last year; New Listings in June were up 33% compared to May 2020, up 47% compared to June 2019 and up 66% compared to June 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 6 Month’s Supply (Balanced Market with some Seller’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 41% compared to 40% in May 2020, 44% in June 2019 and 60% in June 2018.

Pitt Meadows: Total Units Sold in June was 28 – up from 23 (22%) in May 2020, up from 24 (16%) in June 2019, up from 24 (16%) in June 2018; Active Listings are at 107 compared to 130 (down 17%) at this time last year; New Listings in June were up 57% compared to May 2020, up 14% compared to June 2019 and up 9% compared to June 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 4 Month’s Supply (Balanced Market with some Seller’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 51% compared to 47% in May 2020, 51% in June 2019 and 40% in June 2018.

Maple Ridge: Total Units Sold in June was 189 – up from 111 (70%) in May 2020, up from 132 (43%) in June 2019, up from 136 (39%) in June 2018; Active Listings are at 671 compared to 868 (down 22%) at this time last year; New Listings in June were up 61% compared to May 2020, up 15% compared to June 2019 and up 19% compared to June 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 4 Month’s Supply (Balanced Market with some Seller’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 57% compared to 54% in May 2020, 46% in June 2019 and 48% in June 2018.

Kevin Skipworth
Managing Broker/Partner

"It's not whether you get knocked down, it's whether you get up.” – Vince Lombardi

We will get back up! Considering the extent of lock down, the momentum of what March started certainly carried over into April. While sales were down and new listings were down, there was still participation in the market as Realtors found ways to present properties virtually and look at ways to ensure socially distanced showings could happen if necessary. Buyers were there and continue to be, with multiple offers occurring, even as of last week.

There were 1,119 homes sold of all types in Greater Vancouver in April this year compared with 2,562 homes sold last month, 1,850 sales in April last year and 2,631 homes sold in April 2018. Sales and listings were well below the ten-year average but actually higher than in November and December 2008 and January 2009, all three months below 1,000 homes sold. The last two weeks of April showed home sales average 48 per day compared with 138 per day during the first two weeks of March – a reduction of 75 per cent. New listings were down 51 per cent with there being an average of 122 per day compared to 253 per day at the beginning of March.

2020 Average Daily Sales by Week in Covid times:

First two weeks of March – 253 new listings, 138 sales

March 23 to 27 – 172 New Listings, 131 Sales

March 30 to April 3 – 104 new listings, 62 sales

April 6 to April 9 – 137 new listings, 58 sales

April 14 to 17 – 131 new listings, 63 sales

April 20 to 24 – 117 new listings, 48 sales

April 27 to May 1 – 126 new listings, 48 sales

With the reduction in the number of homes sold and the number of homes being listed, absorption of new listings was actually stronger this April then compared with April 2019, 47 per cent compared to 31 per cent. The 47 per cent this year was even better than April 2018 at 44 per cent. Buyers were more engaged with the limited number of new listings than we’ve seen in April for the last 2 years – with more incidents of multiple offers occurring. Had more homes come on to the market we would have likely seen more home sales as a result.

Some highlights from April:

• Detached home sales in Vancouver West were slightly higher than January of this year, with a 58 per cent absorption rate and a slight increase in the average price for April compared to March
• Detached home sales in most areas had high absorption rates compared to attached homes, perhaps a sign of a push towards separate space and less home owners willing to part with that and put their homes up for sale
• The last two weeks of April showed the most significant lag in home sales and new listings, but similar to the end of March, home sales reported are from weeks previous and anecdotal reports indicated more activity amongst home buyers and sellers
• While Month’s of Supply increased in April due to lower sales totals, pushing areas into Buyer’s Market Conditions on paper– this will be temporary and even with those conditions we are seeing sales that favor sellers.

The number of homes for sale in Greater Vancouver saw a slight decrease in April. At the end of April there were 10,115 homes for sale, compared to 10,315 at the end of March and 15,060 at the end of April 2019 – a 33 per cent reduction in the number of homes available year-over-year. As expected, the number of homes that came to market in April were half that of March with 2,399 homes listed for sale, compared with 4,521 in March. We will come out of this pandemic with an extremely under supplied housing market, for both resale homes and presale homes. And while there are already some anticipating a drop in home prices as a result, activity through the worst of the pandemic hasn’t indicated that so far. As local, national and global governments begin to open up economies, there will be more opportunities for increased activity in the housing market. Home owners will seek changes in where they live, having been through more time at home than ever before, and in conditions they have not experienced. Changes will be desired for some and required for others. And governments will be doing their part to push the economy forward – they have the tools to do so and will.

“Predictably, the number of home sales and listings declined in April given the physical distancing measures in place,” Colette Gerber, REBGV president-elect said, “People are, however, adapting. They’re working with the Realtors to get information, advice and to explore their options so that they’re best positioned in the market during and after this pandemic. We’re seeing more innovation in today’s market, with Realtors using different technology to showcase homes virtually, assess neighbourhood amenities with their clients and handle electronically.”

East of the Fraser River, the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board processed 688 sales of all property types on its Multiple Listing Service® in April, a decrease of 52 per cent compared to sales in March and a 50 per cent decrease compared to the sales in April of last year. According to the Fraser Valley Board, last month’s sales were on par with April sales in 1983 through to 1985; and new listings are in line with numbers last need in April 1981. There were 1,416 new listings in April, a 47 per cent decrease compared to March and a 58 per cent decrease compared to April of last year. April finished with 5,997 active listings, a decrease of 1 per cent compared to March’s inventory and a decrease of 24 per cent year-over-year. “Even though March’s initial numbers promised a banner spring, we expected the market to respond this way in April. Both sales and listings contracted in tandem as we all moved swiftly to embrace the measures necessary to respond to this global pandemic. Given that the volume of new listings coming on stream fell even faster than sales in April, the market remains stable,” Chris Shields, President of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board.

More important than the housing market right now is focusing on getting through this pandemic and working to stay healthy and supporting those around us. The real estate market will continue and be much more active as social distancing measures and relaxations of those measures are allowed. Be safe and be careful.

Here’s a summary of the numbers:

Greater Vancouver: Total Units Sold in April 2020 was 1,119 – down from 2,562 (56%) in March 2020, down from 1,850 (40%) in April 2019, down from 2,631 (57%) in April 2018; Active Listings are at 10,115 compared to 15,060 (down 33%) at this time last year; New Listings in April 2020 were down 59% compared to April 2019 and down 60% compared to April 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 9 Month’s Supply (Balanced with signs of Buyer’s Market conditions in some areas and product types) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 47% compared to 31% in April 2019 and 44% in April 2018.

Vancouver Westside Residential: Total Units Sold in April 2020 was 195 – down from 467 (58%) in March 2020, down from 342 (43%) in April 2019, down from 467 (48%) in April 2018; Active Listings are at 1,760 compared to 2,808 (down 37%) at this time last year; New Listings in April 2020 were down 62% compared to April 2019 and down 62% compared to April 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 9 Month’s Supply (Balanced with signs of Buyer’s Market conditions in some areas and product types) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 44% compared to 29% in April 2019 and 40% in April 2018.

Vancouver East Side Residential: Total Units Sold in April 2020 was 120 – down from 297 (60%) in March 2020, down from 174 (31%) in April 2019, down from 298 (60%) in April 2018; Active Listings are at 836 compared to 1,403 (down 40%) at this time last year; New Listings in April 2020 were down 58% compared to April 2019 and down 66% compared to April 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 7 Month’s Supply (Balanced with signs of Buyer’s Market conditions in some areas and product types) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 49% compared to 36% in April 2019 and 42% in April 2018.

North Vancouver Residential: Total Units Sold in April 2020 was 96 – down from 204 (53%) in March 2020, down from 149 (36%) in April 2019, down from 221 (57%) in April 2018; Active Listings are at 633 compared to 1,049 (down 40%) at this time last year; New Listings in April 2020 were down 57% compared to April 2019 and down 54% compared to April 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 7 Month’s Supply (Balanced with signs of Buyer’s Market conditions in some areas and product types) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 43% compared to 29% in April 2019 and 46% in April 2018.

West Vancouver: Total Units Sold in April 2020 was 29 – down from 56 (48%) in March 2020, down from 48 (40%) in April 2019, down from 56 (48%) in April 2018; Active Listings are at 527 compared to 723 (down 27%) at this time last year; New Listings in April 2020 were down 62% compared to April 2019 and down 64% compared to April 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 18 Month’s Supply (Buyer’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 31% compared to 19% in April 2019 and 21% in April 2018.

Richmond Residential: Total Units Sold in April 2020 was 137 – down from 337 (59%) in March 2020, down from 172 (20%) in April 2019, down from 312 (59%) in April 2018; Active Listings are at 1,386 compared to 2,220 (down 38%) at this time last year; New Listings in April 2020 were down 65% compared to April 2019 and down 65% compared to April 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 10 Month’s Supply (Buyer’s to Balanced Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 56% compared to 25% in April 2019 and 45% in April 2018.

Burnaby East: Total Units Sold in April 2020 was 12 – down from 27 (56%) in March 2020, down from 15 (20%) in April 2019, down from 35 (66%) in April 2018; Active Listings are at 101 compared to 153 (down 34%) at this time last year; New Listings in April 2020 were down 44% compared to April 2019 and down 52% compared to April 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 8 Month’s Supply (Balanced Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 38% compared to 26% in April 2019 and 53% in April 2018.

Burnaby North: Total Units Sold in April 2020 was 40 – down from 130 (69%) in March 2020, down from 81 (51%) in April 2019, down from 135 (70%) in April 2018; Active Listings are at 409 compared to 634 (down 35%) at this time last year; New Listings in April 2020 were down 51% compared to April 2019 and down 51% compared to April 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 10 Month’s Supply (Balanced Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 29% compared to 29% in April 2019 and 48% in April 2018.

Burnaby South: Total Units Sold in April 2020 was 55 – down from 143 (62%) in March 2020, down from 97 (43%) in April 2019, down from 108 (49%) in April 2018; Active Listings are at 463 compared to 819 (down 43%) at this time last year; New Listings in April 2020 were down 63% compared to April 2019 and down 63% compared to April 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 8 Month’s Supply (Balanced Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 52% compared to 34% in April 2019 and 38% in April 2018.

New Westminster: Total Units Sold in April 2020 was 61 – down from 118 (48%) in March 2020, down from 108 (44%) in April 2019, down from 133 (54%) in April 2018; Active Listings are at 333 compared to 533 (down 38%) at this time last year; New Listings in April 2020 were down 69% compared to April 2019 and down 63% compared to April 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 5 Month’s Supply (Balanced Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 69% compared to 38% in April 2019 and 56% in April 2018.

Coquitlam: Total Units Sold in April 2020 was 93 – down from 202 (54%) in March 2020, down from 153 (39%) in April 2019, down from 202 (54%) in April 2018; Active Listings are at 687 compared to 1,068 (down 36%) at this time last year; New Listings in April 2020 were down 59% compared to April 2019 and down 59% compared to April 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 7 Month’s Supply (Buyer’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 49% compared to 33% in April 2019 and 44% in April 2018.

Port Moody: Total Units Sold in April 2020 was 28 – down from 54 (48%) in March 2020, down from 60 (53%) in April 2019, down from 54 (48%) in April 2018; Active Listings are at 204 compared to 252 (down 19%) at this time last year; New Listings in April 2020 were down 61% compared to April 2019 and down 50% compared to April 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 7 Month’s Supply (Balanced Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 50% compared to 41% in April 2019 and 48% in April 2018.

Port Coquitlam: Total Units Sold in April 2020 was 42 – down from 96 (54%) in March 2020, down from 67 (37%) in April 2019, down from 103 (39%) in April 2018; Active Listings are at 197 compared to 395 (down 50%) at this time last year; New Listings in April 2020 were down 60% compared to April 2019 and down 58% compared to April 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 5 Month’s Supply (Balanced Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 54% compared to 34% in April 2019 and 56% in April 2018.

Ladner: Total Units Sold in April 2020 was 17 – down from 32 (47%) in March 2020, down from 29 (41%) in April 2019, down from 32 (47%) in April 2018; Active Listings are at 173 compared to 190 (down 9%) at this time last year; New Listings in April 2020 were down 45% compared to April 2019 and down 37% compared to April 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 10 Month’s Supply (Buyer’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 47% compared to 45% in April 2019 and 56% in April 2018.

Tsawwassen: Total Units Sold in April 2020 was 24 – down from 39 (38%) in March 2020, up from 18 (33%) in April 2019, down from 38 (37%) in April 2018; Active Listings are at 209 compared to 296 (down 29%) at this time last year; New Listings in April 2020 were down 61% compared to April 2019 and down 63% compared to April 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 9 Month’s Supply (Buyer’s to Balanced Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 56% compared to 17% in April 2019 and 32% in April 2018.

Pitt Meadows: Total Units Sold in April 2020 was 19 – down from 35 (46%) in April 2020, down from 28 (45%) in April 2019, down from 25 (24%) in March 2018; Active Listings are at 97 compared to 136 (down 28%) at this time last year; New Listings in April 2020 (31) were down 56% compared to April 2019 and down 47% compared to April 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 5 Month’s Supply (Mostly a Balanced Market with some Seller’s Market Conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 61% compared to 38% in April 2019 and 43% in April 2018.

Maple Ridge: Total Units Sold in March 2020 was 82 – down from 170 (52%) in March 2020, down from 124 (33%) in April 2019, down from 205 (60%) in April 2018; Active Listings are at 649 compared to 792 (down 18%) at this time last year; New Listings in April 2020 were down 55% compared to April 2019 and down 58% compared to April 2018. Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is at 8 Month’s Supply (Mostly Balanced Market Conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 54% compared to 36% in April 2019 and 57% in April 2018.

Kevin Skipworth
Managing Broker/Partner/Chief Economist 

Is this an early present for the Greater Vancouver real estate market? With a continuing free fall in the number of active listings and the number of home sales continuing to be on the rise, perhaps the Grinch hasn’t actually stolen all the thunder from real estate in Greater Vancouver. Attached are the Sales and Listings Statistics updated to the end of November 2019. It has become quite clear over the last five months – buyers are entering the market more so than we’ve seen in the past two years, while many sellers are content to hold on to their homes and not list for sale. Perhaps taxation policies aren’t the answer to affordability in the housing market?

There were 2,546 homes sold of all types in Greater Vancouver in November this year compared with 2,892 homes sold last month, 1,633 sales in November last year and 2,831 homes sold in November 2017. November sales were 4 per cent above the 10-year average for the month of November. This was a 56 per cent increase in homes sold compared to November 2018, continuing the trend of strength in the real estate market. With the number of home sales trending as they are, 2019 is likely to finish with more sales in 2019 compared to 2018 – likely setting up for a busy spring market.

Some highlights from November:

• Detached home and strata townhouse sales again showed a significant year over year gain this month, up 58 per cent while apartments were up 50 per cent year over year
• New listings for apartments were down 17 per cent year over year, brining price stability and more multiple offers to this segment of the market
• Sales to listings ratios were the strongest this November we’ve seen since November 2015 – some areas over 100%, meaning that more homes are sold than listed in a month (New Westminster had a sales to listings ratio of 127 per cent)
• After a strong October, sales in Richmond came dropped more than any other area – mainly in the detached house market
• Active listings for detached houses in East Vancouver and North Vancouver are nearly half the amounts that they were two years ago

There were 828 detached houses sold in November 2019 up from 518 (58 per cent) in November 2018 in Greater Vancouver, with a 5.8 per cent decrease in the benchmark price of these homes year over year. For townhouses there were 451 sales in November 2019 compared to 282 in November 2018 (up 59 per cent) with a 4.4 per cent decrease in the benchmark price year over year; and for condos there were 1,222 sales in November 2019, an increase in sales from 810 in November 2018 (up 50 per cent) with a 3.8 per cent decrease in the benchmark price year over year. Definitely a November to remember this year.

The number of homes for sale in Greater Vancouver continued to decline in November with significantly less coming on the market than is typical for this time of year. At the end of November there were 11,517 homes for sale in Greater Vancouver, and at the end of October there were 13,022, reducing the month’s supply of homes in some markets down to 3 to 4 months – a seller’s market. Multiple offers were more common place in November, and in all segments of the market. Well priced properties were getting more attention, with a one-bedroom apartment listing in downtown Vancouver receiving 22 offers this month. There were 3,069 new listings during November in Greater Vancouver, down 14 per cent from November last year and down 27 per cent from November 2017. The number of new listings in November 2019 were 8 per cent below the 10-year average for the month of November. But then again, the argument continues from some that supply isn’t an issue. But here we are, sales are up, listings are down and pressure on prices begins. With home sales hovering slightly above the 10-year average, imagine what will happen to prices if the number of sales increases even more.

“We started to see more home buyer confidence in the summer and this trend continues today,” Ashely Smith, Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver president said. “It’ll be important to watch home listing levels over the new few months to see if supply can stay in line with home buyer demand.”

East of the Fraser River, the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board processed 1,405 sales of all property types on its Multiple Listing Service® in November, an increase of 11.7 per cent compared to sales in October and a 36.7 per cent increase compared to the 1,028 sales in November of last year. Active listings for the Fraser Valley finished at 6,733, decreasing 9 per cent month-over-month and a decrease of 8.5 per cent when compared to November 2018. There were 1,877 new listings in November, a 9.6 per cent decrease compared to November 2018 and a 21.2 per cent decrease compared to October 2019. “Some listings are seeing a lot of activity depending on location and property type. Agents are reporting more showings, higher traffic at open houses and even some multiple offer situations, which is atypical for this time of year.” said Darin Germyn, President of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board. “Four our region, a balanced market is when 12 to 20 per cent of active inventory is selling. In November, 33 per cent of our supply of townhomes sold, as did 29 per cent of Fraser Valley condos; indicating that the supply of attached properties isn’t keeping up with demand.”

Here’s a summary of the numbers:

Greater Vancouver: Total Units Sold in November 2019 was 2,546 – down from 2,892 (12%) in October 2019, up from 1,633 (56%) in November 2018, down from 2,831 (10%) in November 2017; Active Listings are at 11,517 compared to 12,978 (down 11%) at this time last year; New Listings in November 2019 were down 14% compared to November 2018 and down 27% compared to November 2017; Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is steady at 5 Month’s Supply (Balanced to Buyer’s Market conditions with signs of Seller’s Market conditions in some areas and product types) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 83% compared to 46% in November 2018 and 69% in October 2019.

Vancouver Westside Residential: Total Units Sold in November 2019 was 406 – down from 506 (20%) in October 2019, up from 298 (36%) in November 2018, down from 505 (20%) in November 2017; Active Listings are at 2,065 compared to 2,361 (down 13%) at this time last year; New Listings in November 2019 were down 19% compared to November 2018 and down 22% compared to November 2017; Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is steady at 5 Month’s Supply (Balanced to Buyer’s Market conditions with signs of Seller’s Market conditions in some areas and product types) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 72% compared to 43% in November 2018 and 62% in October 2019.

Vancouver East Side Residential: Total Units Sold in November 2019 was 310 – down from 316 (2%) in October 2019, up from 181 (29%) in November 2018, down from 315 (2%) in November 2017; Active Listings are at 1,006 compared to 1,314 (down 23%) at this time last year; New Listings in November 2019 were down 11% compared to November 2018 and down 35% compared to November 2017; Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is down to 3 Month’s Supply (Balanced to with signs of Seller’s Market conditions in some areas and product types) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 91% compared to 47% in November 2018 and 72% in October 2019.

North Vancouver Residential: Total Units Sold in November 2019 was 217 – down from 260 (17%) in October 2019, up from 139 (44%) in November 2018, down from 250 (13%) in November 2017; Active Listings are at 656 compared to 854 (down 23%) at this time last year; New Listings in November 2019 were down 22% compared to November 2018 and down 39% compared to November 2017; Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is steady at 3 Month’s Supply (Balanced to with signs of Seller’s Market conditions in some areas and product types) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 95% compared to 48% in November 2018 and 76% in October 2019.

West Vancouver: Total Units Sold in November 2019 was 66 – the same as October 2019, up from 30 (120%) in November 2018, down from 57 (5%) in November 2017; Active Listings are at 608 compared to 705 (down 14%) at this time last year; New Listings in November 2019 were down 18% compared to November 2018 and down 32% compared to November 2017; Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is down to 9 Month’s Supply (Balanced to Buyer’s Market conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 56% compared to 21% in November 2018 and 42% in October 2019.

Richmond Residential: Total Units Sold in November 2019 was 273 – down from 345 (21%) in October 2019, up from 178 (53%) in November 2018, down from 350 (22%) in November 2017; Active Listings are at 1,795 compared to 1,809 (down 1%) at this time last year; New Listings in November 2019 were down 15% compared to November 2018 and down 38% compared to November 2017; Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is up to 7 Month’s Supply (Balanced to Buyer’s Market Conditions) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 71% compared to 39% in November 2018 and 68% in October 2019.

Burnaby East: Total Units Sold in November 2019 was 33 – up from 26 (27%) in October 2019, up from 17 (94%) in November 2018, down from 30 (10%) in November 2017; Active Listings are at 135 compared to 142 (down 5%) at this time last year; New Listings in November 2019 were up 9% compared to November 2018 and down 30% compared to November 2017; Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is down to 4 Month’s Supply (Balanced to with signs of Seller’s Market conditions in some areas and product types) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 89% compared to 50% in November 2018 and 50% in October 2019.

Burnaby North: Total Units Sold in November 2019 was 137 – down from 166 (17%) in October 2019, up from 71 (93%) in November 2018, down from 144 (5%) in November 2017; Active Listings are at 439 compared to 547 (down 20%) at this time last year; New Listings in November 2019 were down 23% compared to November 2018 and down 30% compared to November 2017; Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is steady at 3 Month’s Supply (Balanced to with signs of Seller’s Market conditions in some areas and product types) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 104% compared to 42% in November 2018 and 80% in October 2019.

Burnaby South: Total Units Sold in November 2019 was 167 – up from 157 (6%) in October 2019, up from 79 (99%) in November 2018, up from 148 (13%) in November 2017; Active Listings are at 607 compared to 688 (down 12%) at this time last year; New Listings in November 2019 were down 6% compared to November 2018 and down 28% compared to November 2017; Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is steady at 4 Month’s Supply (Balanced to with signs of Seller’s Market conditions in some areas and product types) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 96% compared to 42% in November 2018 and 68% in October 2019.

New Westminster: Total Units Sold in November 2019 was 123 – down from 136 (10%) in October 2019, up from 87 (41%) in November 2018, down from 167 (26%) in November 2017; Active Listings are at 335 compared to 491 (down 68%) at this time last year; New Listings in November 2019 were down 40% compared to November 2018 and down 47% compared to November 2017; Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is steady at 3 Month’s Supply (Balanced to with signs of Seller’s Market conditions in some areas and product types) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 127% compared to 53% in November 2018 and 85% in October 2019.

Coquitlam: Total Units Sold in November 2019 was 210 – down from 254 (17%) in October 2019, up from 135 (56%) in November 2018, down from 323 (35%) in November 2017; Active Listings are at 753 compared to 935 (down 19%) at this time last year; New Listings in November 2019 were down 17% compared to November 2018 and down 33% compared to November 2017; Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is up to 4 Month’s Supply (Balanced to with signs of Seller’s Market conditions in some areas and product types) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 97% compared to 51% in November 2018 and 77% in October 2019.

Port Moody: Total Units Sold in November 2019 was 43– down from 66 (35%) in October 2019, up from 33 (30%) in November 2018, down from 73 (41%) in November 2017; Active Listings are at 182 compared to 219 (down 17%) at this time last year; New Listings in November 2019 were down 31% compared to November 2018 and down 38% compared to November 2017; Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is up to 4 Month’s Supply (Balanced to with signs of Seller’s Market conditions in some areas and product types) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 90% compared to 47% in November 2018 and 80% in October 2019.

Port Coquitlam: Total Units Sold in November 2019 was 90 – down from 107 (16%) in October 2019, up from 67 (34%) in November 2018, down from 94 (4%) in November 2017; Active Listings are at 269 compared to 335 (down 20%) at this time last year; New Listings in November 2019 were up 1% compared to November 2018 and down 2% compared to November 2017; Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is steady at 3 Month’s Supply (Balanced to with signs of Seller’s Market conditions in some areas and product types) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 73% compared to 55% in November 2018 and 84% in October 2019.

Ladner: Total Units Sold in November 2019 was 42 – up from 34 (24%) in October 2019, up from 23 (83%) in November 2018, up from 26 (62%) in November 2017; Active Listings are at 163 compared to 143 (up 14%) at this time last year; New Listings in November 2019 were up 264% compared to November 2018 and up 28% compared to November 2017; Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is down to 3 Month’s Supply (Balanced to with signs of Seller’s Market conditions in some areas and product types) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 82% compared to 164% in November 2018 and 52% in October 2019.

Tsawwassen: Total Units Sold in November 2019 was 36 – up from 32 (13%) in October 2019, up from 17 (112%) in November 2018, up from 24 (50%) in November 2017; Active Listings are at 250 compared to 219 (up 14%) at this time last year; New Listings in November 2019 were up 16% compared to November 2018 and down 8% compared to November 2017; Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is down to 7 Month’s Supply (Balanced to Buyer’s Market conditions in some areas and product types) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 82% compared to 45% in November 2018 and 40% in October 2019.

Pitt Meadows: Total Units Sold in November 2019 was 24 – down  from 31 (23%) in October 2019, up from 23 (4%) in November 2018, down from 32 (25%) in November 2017; Active Listings are at 82 compared to 112 (down 26%) at this time last year; New Listings in November 2019 were down 53% compared to November 2018 and down 63% compared to November 2017; Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is down to 4 Month’s Supply (Balanced to Seller’s Market conditions in some areas and product types) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 126% compared to 56% in November 2018 and 64% in October 2019.

Maple Ridge: Total Units Sold in November 2019 was 169 – down from 180 (6%) in October 2019, up from 108 (56%) in November 2018, down from 184 (8%) November 2017; Active Listings are at 689 compared to 674 (up 2%) at this time last year; New Listings in November 2019 were up 5% compared to November 2018 and up 6% compared to November 2017; Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is steady at 4 Month’s Supply (Balanced to Seller’s Market conditions in some areas and product types) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 78% compared to 53% in November 2018 and 74% in October 2019.

Kevin Skipworth
Dexter Realty - Managing Broker/Partner/Chief Economist

Attached are the Sales and Listings Stats updated to the end of September 2019. Back to school, back to selling. The number of sales in September were up from August, a rare occurrence going from August to September. And yes, the number of new listings were down, pulling Active Listings down with it. So where is the autumn market going? Well let’s find out by seeing where the summer left off.

There were 2,363 homes sold of all types in Greater Vancouver in September this year compared with 2,256 homes sold last month, 1,634 sales in September last year and 2,881 homes sold in September 2017. September sales were 7 per cent below the 10-year average for the month of September and marked a 45 per cent increase over September 2018. This was the largest year over year increase in sales in over 2 years and the third straight month that a year over year increase in sales has occurred. Buyers are engaging with offers, and the occurrence of multiple offers continues to be present in the market – even more so than we’ve seen in the last 3 months. While they tend to be happening more in the apartment and townhouse segment of the market, there was a detached listing on the Westside of Vancouver priced in the $3 Million range that attracted 12 offers. Showing that well priced properties will sell. There were 753 detached houses sold in September 2019 up from 509 (47 per cent) in September 2018 in Greater Vancouver, with a 8.6 per cent decrease in the benchmark price of these homes year over year. For townhouses there were 422 sales in September 2019 compared to 275 in September 2018 (up 53 per cent) with a 7.2 per cent decrease in the benchmark price year over year; and for condos there were 1,155 sales in September 2019, an increase in sales from 812 in September 2018 (up 43 per cent) with an 6.5 per cent decrease in the benchmark price year over year. In Greater Vancouver detached homes make up 32 per cent of all home sales, while apartments make up 50 per cent. If we move over to the Westside of Vancouver, detached homes make up only 15 per cent of sales, while apartments make up 75 per cent.

As for the supply homes in Greater Vancouver, there was a decrease in the number of new listings in September compared to September of last year. There were 4,989 new listings during September in Greater Vancouver, down 7 per cent from September last year and down 9 per cent from September 2017. The number of new listings in September 2019 were 6 per cent below the 10-year average for the month of September. Active Listings are at 14,242 at month end (up 3.5 per cent compared to September 2018). The number of homes on the market is shrinking as is the gap year-over-year. There continues to be a reluctance for sellers to engage in the current market, leaving fewer and fewer choices for buyers. Government policy aimed at creating affordability has not led to a significant increase in housing options but instead has left buyers continuing to fight over what comes on the market. With buyers adjusting to the Mortgage Stress Test enacted in January 2017 for conventional mortgages, those wanting to engage don’t have the options one would think in a quiet real estate market.

So where will the fall go? Well we have a federal election coming this month. Housing affordability is a main topic of several of the federal party’s platforms – all seemingly under the guise of taxing demand. While it’s recognized that supply needs to be brought forward, there is no clear plan to provide that. But what we do know is that buyers continue to be dealing with an undersupplied housing market in Metro Vancouver. Foreign buyers have been taxed for 3 years now, Speculation and Vacancy Taxes have been in place for a year or more in the case of the City of Vancouver, but to what end? Local buyers’ purchasing power was reduced with the mortgage rule changes, and now that prices have adjusted to reflect that and buyer’s have adjusted their budgets, but the government is still looking at one side of the equation and looking to supress demand – mostly local demand which will only lead to a continued build up of buyers and sellers wanting to transact. Where is the challenge to look at the supply side of the equation?

“We’re seeing more balanced housing market conditions over the last three months compared to what we saw at this time last year,” Ashely Smith, Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver president said. “Home buyers are more willing to make offers today, particularly in the townhome and apartment markets.”

East of the Fraser River, the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board processed 1,343 sales of all property types on its Multiple Listing Service® in September, a increase of 3.5 per cent compared to sales in August and a 29.8 per cent increase compared to the 1,035 sales in September of last year. Active listings for the Fraser Valley finished at 7,946, decreasing 1.2 per cent month-over-month and an increase of 3.9 per cent when compared to September 2018. There were 2,769 new listings in September, an 6 per cent decrease compared to September 2018. “The market’s return to balance is good news for both buyers and sellers, however it’s important to put the 30 per cent year-over-year increase in sales into context. September’s sales went from amongst the worth in 10 years to just above our 10-year average.” said Darin Germyn, President of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board. “Home prices are still dropping compared to a year ago, but on a month-to-month basis, prices are moderating because supply is shrinking. Our incoming supply of new listings has dropped consistently for the last four months pushing our total inventory in the Fraser Valley to the lowest it’s been since April, which has had an impact on prices”

Here’s a summary of the numbers:

Greater Vancouver: Total Units Sold in September 2019 was 2,363 – up from 2,256 (5%) in August 2019, up from 1,634 (45%) in September 2018, down from 2,881 (18%) in September 2017; Active Listings are at 14,242 compared to 13,760 (up 4%) at this time last year; New Listings in September 2019 were down 7% compared to September 2018 and down 9% compared to September 2017; Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is steady at 6 Month’s Supply (Balanced to Buyer’s Market conditions in some areas and product types and price range) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 47% compared to 30% in September 2018 and 59% in August 2019.

Vancouver Westside Residential: Total Units Sold in September 2019 was 404 – down from 423 (4%) in August 2019, up from 280 (44%) in September 2018, down from 540 (25%) in September 2017; Active Listings are at 2,444 compared to 2,433(down 0.5%) at this time last year; New Listings in September 2019 were down 4% compared to September 2018 and down 6% compared to September 2017; Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is up to 6 Month’s Supply (Balanced to Buyer’s Market conditions in some areas and product types and price range) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 41% compared to 27% in September 2018 and 67% in August 2019.

Vancouver Eastside Residential: Total Units Sold in September 2019 was 293 – up from 235 (25%) in August 2019, up from 195 (50%) in September 2018, up from 268 (9%) in September 2017; Active Listings are at 1,295 compared to 1,494 (down 13%) at this time last year; New Listings in September 2019 were down 5% compared to September 2018 and up 2% compared to September 2017; Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is down to 4 Month’s Supply (Balanced Market) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 51% compared to 32% in September 2018 and 65% in August 2019.

North Vancouver Residential Total Units Sold in September 2019 was 166 – down from 184 (10%) in August 2019, up from 120 (38%) in September 2018, down from 210 (20%) in September 2017; Active Listings are at 895 compared to 933 (down 4%) at this time last year; New Listings in September 2019 were down 18% compared to September 2018 and down 5% compared to September 2017; Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is steady at 5 Month’s Supply (Balanced to Buyer’s Market conditions in some areas and product types and price range) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 37% compared to 22% in September 2018 and 70% in August 2019.

West Vancouver Houses: Total Units Sold in September 2019 was 51 – up from 49 (4%) in August 2019, up from 34 (50%) in September 2018, down from 56 (9%) in September 2017; Active Listings are at 721 compared to 764 (down 6%) at this time last year; New Listings in September 2019 were down 5% compared to September 2018 and down 19% compared to September 2017; Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is steady at 14 Month’s Supply (Buyer’s Market) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 22% compared to 14% in September 2018 and 36% in August 2019.

Richmond Residential: Total Units Sold in September 2019 was 283 – up from 250 (13%) in August 2019, up from 196 (44%) in September 2018, down from 379 (25%) in September 2017; Active Listings are at 2,127 compared to 1,915 (up 11%) at this time last year; New Listings in September 2019 were down 14% compared to September 2018 and down 22% compared to September 2017; Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is down to 8 Month’s Supply (Buyer’s Market) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 51% compared to 30% in September 2018 and 48% in August 2019.

Burnaby East: Total Units Sold in September 2019 was 22 – down from 31 (29%) in August 2019, up from 11 (100%) in September 2018, down from 28 (21%) in September 2017; Active Listings are at 159 compared to 140 (up 14%) at this time last year; New Listings in September 2019 were up 8% compared to September 2018 and down 8% compared to September 2017; Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is up to 7 Month’s Supply (Balanced to Buyer’s Market conditions in some areas and product types and price range) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 39% compared to 21% in September 2018 and 58% in August 2019.

Burnaby North: Total Units Sold in September 2019 was 138 – up from 129 (7%) in August 2019, up from 83 (66%) in September 2018, up from 129 (7%) in September 2017; Active Listings are at 577 compared to 533 (up 8%) at this time last year; New Listings in September 2019 were up 2% compared to September 2018 and down 6% compared to September 2017; Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is down to 4 Month’s Supply (Balanced Market) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 55% compared to 34% in September 2018 and 61% in August 2019.

Burnaby South: Total Units Sold in September 2019 was 119 – down from 126 (6%) in August 2019, up from 82 (45%) in September 2018, down from 164 (27%) in September 2017; Active Listings are at 777 compared to 656 (up 18%) at this time last year; New Listings in September 2019 were down 4% compared to September 2018 and down 24% compared to September 2017; Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is up to 7 Month’s Supply (Balanced to Buyer’s Market conditions in some areas and product types and price range) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 51% compared to 34% in September 2018 and 51% in August 2019.

New Westminster: Total Units Sold in September 2019 was 110 – up from 97 (13%) in August 2019, up from 81 (36%) in September 2018, down from 155 (29%) in September 2017; Active Listings are at 502 compared to 460 (up 9%) at this time last year; New Listings in September 2019 were down 11% compared to September 2018 and down 16% compared to September 2017; Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is steady at 5 Month’s Supply (Balanced to Buyer’s Market conditions in some areas and product types and price range) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 51% compared to 33% in September 2018 and 58% in August 2019.

Coquitlam: Total Units Sold in September 2019 was 213 – up from 198 (8%) in August 2019, up from 131 (63%) in September 2018, down from 230 (7%) in September 2017; Active Listings are at 998 compared to 1,056 (down 5%) at this time last year; New Listings in September 2019 were down 14% compared to September 2018 and down 16% compared to September 2017; Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is steady at 5 Month’s Supply (Balanced to Buyer’s Market conditions in some areas and product types and price range) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 56% compared to 29% in September 2018 and 56% in August 2019.

Port Moody: Total Units Sold in September 2019 was 49 – up from 39 (26%) in August 2019, up from 34 (44%) in September 2018, down from 55 (11%) in September 2017; Active Listings are at 233 compared to 245 (down 5%) at this time last year; New Listings in September 2019 were down 18% compared to September 2018 and down 21% compared to September 2017; Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is down to 5 Month’s Supply (Balanced Market) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 52% compared to 29% in September 2018 and 51% in August 2019.

Port Coquitlam: Total Units Sold in September 2019 was 78 – down from 79 (1%) in August 2019, up from 73 (7%) in September 2018, down from 124 (38%) in September 2017; Active Listings are at 340 compared to 345 (down 1%) at this time last year; New Listings in September 2019 were down 12% compared to September 2018 and down 9% compared to September 2017; Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is steady at 4 Month’s Supply (Balanced Market) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 54% compared to 45% in September 2018 and 68% in August 2019.

Ladner: Total Units Sold in September 2019 was 28 – down from 33 (15%) in August 2019, down from 30 (7%) in September 2018, up from 23 (22%) in September 2017; Active Listings are at 185 compared to 177 (up 5%) at this time last year; New Listings in September 2019 were down 30% compared to September 2018 and down 8% compared to September 2017; Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is up to 7 Month’s Supply (Balanced to Buyer’s Market conditions in some areas and product types and price range) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 51% compared to 38% in September 2018 and 49% in August 2019.

Tsawwassen: Total Units Sold in September 2019 was 26 – down from 30 (13%) in August 2019, up from 25 (4%) in September 2018, down from 33 (21%) in September 2017; Active Listings are at 301 compared to 242 (up 24%) at this time last year; New Listings in September 2019 were down 4% compared to September 2018 and down 8% compared to September 2017; Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is up to 12 Month’s Supply (Buyer’s Market) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 33% compared to 30% in September 2018 and 41% in August 2019.

Pitt Meadows: Total Units Sold in September 2019 was 32 – down from 39 (18%) in August 2019, up from 17 (88%) in September 2018, the same as 32 in September 2017; Active Listings are at 111 compared to 127 (down 12%) at this time last year; New Listings in September 2019 were down 12% compared to September 2018 and up 37% compared to September 2017; Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is steady at 3 Month’s Supply (Balanced to Seller's Market conditions in some areas and product types and price range) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 54% compared to 34% in September 2018 and 102% in August 2019.

Maple Ridge: Total Units Sold in September 2019 was 157 – up from 133 (18%) in August 2019, up from 89 (76%) in September 2018, down from 193 (19%) in September 2017; Active Listings are at 822 compared to 709 (up 15%) at this time last year; New Listings in September 2019 were up 3% compared to September 2018 and up 8% compared to September 2017; Month’s Supply of Total Residential Listings is down to 5 Month’s Supply (Balanced to Buyer’s Market conditions in some areas and product types and price range) and a Sales to Listings Ratio of 55% compared to 32% in September 2018 and 63% in August 2019.

Kevin Skipworth
Managing Broker/Partner

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