2025 closed as a year for the record books. With 23,800 sales across Metro Vancouver, it marked the lowest annual total in over 20 years. December alone saw 1,537 sales, down 13% from December 2024.
The reason? Trade tensions with the United States created uncertainty that held many buyers back throughout the year.
But here is the important part: those tensions are easing, consumer sentiment improved in the second half of the year, and borrowing costs fell nearly one full percentage point. Buyers and sellers are entering 2026 with clearer conditions than they had for most of last year.
December 2025 Market Snapshot:
- Sales: 2,371 (down 11% from December 2024, 23% below 10-year December average).
- Active Inventory: 18,540 (up 12% vs last year, up 63% above 10-year average).
- Months of Inventory: 7.8 (down from 8.2 in November).
- Prices (Greater Vancouver): Detached $1.75M (-6% YoY) | Townhomes $960K (-10% YoY) | Condos $640K (-11% YoY).
2026 Market Conditions
Buyers are starting the year with 3 things working in their favor: lower prices, lower borrowing costs, and plenty of inventory to choose from. At the same time, sellers brought a record number of listings to market in 2025, the highest total since the mid-1990s.
This shows the market is active. Properties are selling when priced realistically for current conditions. With trade tensions easing and sentiment improving, the question for 2026 is whether these buyer-friendly conditions will spark stronger demand. Both buyers and sellers who position themselves well now can take advantage of a market that is finding its footing after a challenging year.
1930s character home with unobstructed ocean views from Lions Gate Bridge to UBC. Updated while preserving heritage. Oversized wrap-around deck, open-concept main with gas fireplace, oak hardwood floors throughout. Do not miss the chance to own a 13,000 sq ft lot in West Bay catchment!
4 Beds | 2 Baths | 2,631 Sq. Ft.
Island escape 20 minutes from Horseshoe Bay. Sea Ranch Community spans 350 acres with new docks, working farm, pavilion, trails, marina, and ocean swimming. First lot with East Bay views. Cabin unfinished, sold as-is.
1 Bath | 813 Sq. Ft.
Winter Activities on the North Shore
Coffee Mornings at MONOVA
Jan 22, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m., MONOVA Museum
Start your morning with connection and community. Free event bringing people together for conversation in the museum's welcoming space. Drop in and meet neighbors while exploring North Vancouver's history through interactive exhibits.
Winter Explorer Tour
Ongoing through Winter, Deep Cove Kayak Centre
Paddle surrounded by snow-capped mountains. This guided tour explores Deep Cove and Indian Arm with harbour seals, eagles, and sea stars. No experience required, runs rain or shine.
Lights to the Lodge
Ongoing through Winter, Cypress Mountain Nordic Area
We loved snowshoeing this magical one-kilometre lit trail through Old Growth Forest to historic Hollyburn Lodge. LED lights guide you through ancient Cedar, Fir, and Hemlock trees creating an enchanting evening experience. Stop at the lodge for food and refreshments, then return on a lit trail!
See below some pictures of us enjoying the lights!
Starting 2026 With Clarity
The year ahead brings fresh opportunities. With easing trade tensions, improving sentiment, and borrowing costs down nearly a full percentage point, the conditions are clearer than they have been in months. Buyers have time and choice. Sellers who price realistically are getting results.
The best time to start planning is now! Let's connect to discuss your real estate goals for 2026.
