The housing market in Greater Vancouver is undergoing significant shifts as we approach 2026. Recent data from credible real-estate associations and media reports point to reduced sales, rising inventory, and softening prices — trends that are reshaping the balance of power between buyers and sellers. For prospective homeowners, investors, and sellers, this evolving landscape presents opportunities — but also challenges. Here’s a breakdown of what’s happening in Vancouver’s real estate market and what to expect going forward.

📉 1. Sales Slump: Lowest in Years

• Metro Vancouver is on track to record some of its lowest home-sales totals in decades. Recent monthly data showed only 1,846 properties sold in November 2025, continuing a three-year stretch of sluggish activity. Yahoo News Canada+1

• Preliminary estimates suggest the overall number of home sales in 2025 may come close to the lowest annual level this century — raising concern among sellers and market watchers alike. Yahoo News Canada+1

• This slump in demand applies broadly across property types, including detached homes, condos, and townhouses. Bespoke Rgroup+2Condotrend+2

🏡 2. Inventory Surge — Power Shifting to Buyers

• Active listings have climbed dramatically. In October 2025, there were over 16,000 active listings — a 13.2% increase year-over-year, and well above the 10-year seasonal average. Bespoke Rgroup+1

• With more supply on the market and fewer buyers, buyers are gaining more negotiating leverage. nesto.ca+2Bespoke Rgroup+2

• The high inventory is pressuring prices across most housing segments — particularly condos and apartments where supply is abundant. nesto.ca+1

💲 3. Prices Cooling — But Not a Collapse

• According to recent reports, the average residential sale price in the region dropped by about 3.8% between 2024 and 2025. REMAX Canada+1

• For the general area of British Columbia, the British Columbia Real Estate Association (BCREA) forecast a modest price increase of around 4% in 2026, reflecting a stabilized market rather than a rebound boom. British Columbia Real Estate Association+1

• That said, price trends vary depending on property type. Entry-level homes and lower-priced units remain in demand, whereas high-end and luxury properties are seeing slower activity and more competition. REMAX Canada+1

🔄 4. 2026 Outlook: Balanced — But Uncertain

• Given current dynamics, experts expect 2026 to be a more balanced market, with neither buyers nor sellers holding an overwhelming advantage. British Columbia Real Estate Association+1

• Buyers—especially first-time buyers and downsizers — may find favorable conditions: more choices, softer pricing, and less competition than during the 2020–2022 peak. REMAX Canada+1

• For sellers, especially those in the luxury or high-end segment, strategic pricing and patience will be key. Holding out for peak prices may take longer than in prior years. Condotrend+1

✅ What This Means for You (As Buyer or Seller)

• For buyers: If you've been waiting on the sidelines, now could be one of the best windows to buy — given higher inventory and downward price pressure. Use the extra supply to negotiate, especially on condos or listings that have lingered on the market.

• For sellers: Manage expectations. The market has cooled and quick flips at pandemic-era prices are unlikely. Pricing realistically and being patient is essential — especially for detached homes or luxury properties.

• For investors: Rental demand and long-term potential remain uncertain. While lower entry prices may seem attractive, rental incomes and appreciation may be dampened by economic headwinds and shifting demand.

• For first-time buyers / downsizers: This environment may present unique opportunities — especially if you’re targeting value-based homes or trade-downs.

🔎 Final Thoughts

The Vancouver housing market is clearly shifting — from the frenzied seller’s market of the early 2020s toward a more balanced, even buyer-favorable, landscape in 2025–2026. For many, this may offer a rare chance to enter the market under comparatively favorable conditions. That said, uncertainty remains: broader economic factors, mortgage rates, and supply/demand imbalances will continue to influence how smooth (or bumpy) the ride is.