Condo Specialists in North Vancouver know that buying a condo in this highly sought-after area is a smart investment. With breathtaking mountain views, vibrant neighborhoods, and close proximity to downtown Vancouver, North Vancouver is a top choice for condo buyers. However, navigating the condo market here requires understanding strata living, neighborhood choices, financing, and making a competitive offer.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know before buying a condo in North Vancouver, from understanding strata documents to choosing the best neighborhood for your lifestyle.

This is for informational purposes only and should not be considered real estate advice. Always verify information independently and consult with a qualified professional before making any real estate decisions.

Why Buy a Condo in North Vancouver?

Lifestyle & Location Advantages 

North Vancouver offers a balanced lifestyle with easy access to both urban conveniences and outdoor adventures.

• Proximity to Downtown Vancouver: Quick commute via SeaBus or a short drive.

• Outdoor Activities: World-class hiking, skiing, and waterfront views.

• Community & Culture: A strong sense of community with vibrant local events, farmers markets, and cultural experiences.

Top Neighborhoods for Condo Buyers in North Vancouver 

Lower Lonsdale 

• Urban & Trendy: The most walkable neighborhood with cafes, shops, and the Lonsdale Quay Market.

• Perfect for Young Professionals: Quick SeaBus access to downtown Vancouver.

• High Demand Area: Popular for both buyers and renters, making it great for investment properties.

Central Lonsdale 

• Residential & Family-Oriented: More residential with schools, parks, and local shops.

• Convenience: Easy access to public transit and major highways.

• Variety of Condo Options: Mix of older, spacious units and newer modern buildings.

Edgemont Village 

• Charming & Upscale: Quiet neighborhood with a village feel, boutique shops, and fine dining.

• Nature-Oriented: Close to Grouse Mountain and Capilano Suspension Bridge.

• Luxury Condos: Smaller inventory but high-end properties perfect for downsizers.

SeyLynn Village 

• Modern & Urban: Newer, modern condos with stunning mountain views.

• Young & Vibrant Community: Popular with young professionals and first-time buyers.

• Easy Commute: Quick access to Highway 1 for commuting to downtown Vancouver.

Marine Drive Corridor 

• Affordable Urban Living: Urban feel with more affordable condo options.

• Shopping & Dining: Lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.

• Accessible Location: Close to public transit and major roadways.

Seymour 

• Nature Lovers’ Paradise: Surrounded by lush forests, hiking trails, and the Seymour River.

• Quiet & Residential: Ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

• Limited Condo Inventory: Mostly townhomes and low-rise condos with spacious layouts.

Click Here to Connect with a real estate specialist

Understanding Strata Living in North Vancouver 

What Is Strata? 

• Shared Ownership: You own your individual unit but share ownership of common areas (hallways, elevators, amenities).

• Strata Council: Elected group of owners who manage building operations and enforce bylaws.

• Community Living: Close proximity to neighbors with shared responsibilities for maintenance.

Strata Fees Explained 

• Monthly Fees: Cover building maintenance, insurance, and amenities.

• Budgeting: Fees vary by building, depending on age, size, and amenities.

• Reserve Fund Contributions: A portion of fees goes into a contingency reserve for major repairs.

Bylaws and Rules 

• Pet Restrictions: Check for pet policies or size restrictions.

• Rental Restrictions: Some buildings have rental caps or restrict short-term rentals (e.g., Airbnb).

• Renovation Approvals: Any alterations may require strata council approval.

What to Look for When Buying a Condo 

Building Age and Condition 

• Newer Buildings: Modern amenities but potentially higher strata fees.

• Older Buildings: Larger floor plans but may require more maintenance.

• Red Flags to Watch For: Leaky condo history, pending special assessments, or expensive repairs.

Amenities and Features 

• Popular Amenities: Gym, pool, rooftop terrace, guest suite.

• Luxury Amenities: Concierge service, spa, movie theater.

• Impact on Strata Fees: More amenities usually mean higher monthly fees.

Reviewing Strata Documents: A Critical Step 

Why Reviewing Strata Documents Is Essential 

Reviewing strata documents is one of the most important steps when buying a condo in North Vancouver. These documents provide crucial information about the building’s financial health, management practices, and potential red flags.

Key Documents to Review (H3)

• Form B: This is a must-have document that includes:

  • Financial Information: Details on strata fees, any special assessments, and the contingency reserve fund.

  • Pending Litigation and Liens: Reveals any ongoing legal disputes or outstanding debts.

• Minutes of Meetings: Reveal ongoing issues, disputes, or major repair discussions.

• Financial Statements & Budget: Ensure the strata has a well-funded contingency reserve.

• Depreciation Report: Long-term maintenance and repair plans.

• Current Bylaws and Rules: Ensures compatibility with your lifestyle needs (e.g., pets, rentals).

Red Flags to Watch For 

• Pending Litigation: Legal disputes can impact all owners financially.

• Underfunded Reserves: Risk of special assessments or increased strata fees.

• Frequent Special Assessments: Indicate poor maintenance planning.

Financing Your Condo Purchase 

Mortgage Pre-Approval 

• Competitive Market: Get pre-approved to act fast and know your budget.

• Local Mortgage Brokers: Choose one familiar with BC’s regulations.

Down Payment Requirements 

• 5% Minimum for properties under $1,500,000.

• Budgeting for Extra Costs: Property transfer tax, legal fees, and inspection.

Making a Competitive Offer 

• Work with a Condo Specialist in North Vancouver: Expert knowledge of the market and negotiation strategies.

• Be Ready to Act Fast: Condos in popular areas like Lower Lonsdale sell quickly.

• Include the Right Contingencies:

  • Subject to financing

  • Subject to strata document review

  • Subject to inspection

Final Thoughts & Call-to-Action 

Buying a condo in North Vancouver is an exciting investment with great potential for lifestyle and financial growth. With the right knowledge and guidance, you can find the perfect condo in this vibrant community.

Thinking of buying a condo in North Vancouver? Let’s connect! As a Condo Specialist in North Vancouver, I can help you navigate the market and find the best property for your needs.

Click Here to Connect with a real estate specialist

This is a reprint of the The Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR) January 2025 GVR Residential Market Report:

Home sellers off to an active start in 2025

Homes newly listed on the MLS® in Metro Vancouver rose 46 per cent year-over-year in January, as sellers appear eager to enter the market to start the year. 

The Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR) reports that residential sales in the region totalled 1,552 in January 2025, an 8.8 per cent increase from the 1,427 sales recorded in January 2024. This was 11.3 per cent below the 10-year seasonal average (1,749). 

“In the three months preceding January, we’ve watched buyer demand gain momentum, but it appears that momentum is now shifting toward sellers to start the new year,” Andrew Lis, GVR’s director of economics and data analytics said. “Even with this increase in new listing activity, sales continue to outpace last years’ figures, signaling some buyer appetite remains after the upswing that finished off 2024.” 

There were 5,566 detached, attached and apartment properties newly listed for sale on the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in Metro Vancouver in January 2025. This represents a 46.9 per cent increase compared to the 3,788 properties listed in January 2024. This was 31.1 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average (4,247). 

The total number of properties currently listed for sale on the MLS® system in Metro Vancouver is 11,494, a 33.1 per cent increase compared to January 2024 (8,633). This is 33.2 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average (8,632). 

Across all detached, attached and apartment property types, the sales-to-active listings ratio for January 2025 is 14.1 per cent. By property type, the ratio is 9.2 per cent for detached homes, 18.5 per cent for attached, and 16.5 per cent for apartments. 

Analysis of the historical data suggests downward pressure on home prices occurs when the ratio dips below 12 per cent for a sustained period, while home prices often experience upward pressure when it surpasses 20 per cent over several months. 

“With new listings outpacing demand to start 2025, price trends saw little fluctuation in January across all segments, with the market overall standing in balanced conditions,” Lis said. “Our 2025 forecast calls for moderate price growth by the end of the year, but we have cautioned that shocks to the economy such as those currently threatening Canada via tariffs from the US could impact these estimates. Going forward, whether these tariffs actually come into force, the duration they remain in place, and the degree to which Canada retaliates will determine the impact to the housing market in our region in the months ahead, if any.” 

The MLS® Home Price Index composite benchmark price for all residential properties in Metro Vancouver is currently $1,173,000. This represents a 0.5 per cent increase over January 2024 and a 0.1 per cent increase compared to December 2024. 

Sales of detached homes in January 2025 reached 380, a 0.3 per cent increase from the 379 detached sales recorded in January 2024. The benchmark price for a detached home is $2,005,400. This represents a 3.1 per cent increase from January 2024 and a 0.4 per cent increase compared to December 2024. 

Sales of apartment homes reached 846 in January 2025, a 13.4 per cent increase compared to the 746 sales in January 2024. The benchmark price of an apartment home is $748,100. This represents a 1.7 per cent decrease from January 2024 and a 0.2 per cent decrease compared to December 2024. 

Attached home sales in January 2025 totalled 321, a 12.6 per cent increase compared to the 285 sales in January 2024. The benchmark price of a townhouse is $1,105,600. This represents a 2.7 per cent increase from January 2024 and a 0.8 per cent decrease compared to December 2024. 

Summary:

The BC short-term rental registry deadline is fast approaching, with all hosts required to register by May 1, 2025. If you operate an Airbnb, Vrbo, or other short-term rental in Vancouver, North Vancouver, or West Vancouver, these new rules will impact you.

Failure to register on time could result in listings being removed and future bookings being canceled. While government intervention in real estate can be confusing, this registry is separate from the Speculation & Vacancy Tax and the City of Vancouver’s short-term rental license.

This post breaks down who needs to register, key deadlines, compliance rules, and what this means for short-term rental owners. Whether you plan to continue operating or are considering alternatives, now is the time to prepare.

📌 Check the official government sources for full details:
🔗 BC Short-Term Rental Registry
🔗 BC Short-Term Rental Legislation

(Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or tax advice. Always refer to government websites for the latest regulations.)

Why Is BC Introducing This Registry?

• The goal is to increase housing availability for residents by reducing speculation-driven short-term rentals.

• The government aims to ensure that homes are used for people living and working in BC, not just as investment properties.

• Annual registration fees will help fund enforcement efforts to crack down on non-compliant rentals.

Who Needs to Register?

• Short-term rental hosts (Airbnb, Vrbo, and other short-term operators)

• Platforms (Airbnb, Expedia, etc.)

• Strata hotel platforms (buildings that allow short-term rentals)

Key Deadlines & Registration Fees

Early Registration Discounts 

✅ 50% discount if registered by Feb 28, 2025
✅ 25% discount if registered by March 31, 2025

Final Registration Deadline 

• All hosts must register by May 1, 2025.

• Listings that fail to comply will be removed starting May 1, 2025.

• Future bookings will be canceled starting June 1, 2025.

What Happens If You Don’t Register?

The new compliance and enforcement unit will: 

• Monitor compliance and issue fines

• Order platforms to remove unregistered listings

Hosts who fail to comply risk: 

❌ Losing rental income
❌ Facing penalties and enforcement actions

How This Affects Homeowners & Condo Investors in Greater Vancouver

If you own a condo: 

• Many stratas already prohibit short-term rentals—check your bylaws before registering.

If you rely on short-term rental income: 

• You must comply with these new rules or explore alternative rental strategies.

If you’re buying an investment property:

• Consider long-term rentals instead, as regulations continue to tighten.

Alternatives to Short-Term Rentals

• Convert your unit to a long-term rental for steady, stable income.

• Sell your property if short-term rental restrictions make it less viable as an investment.

• Explore furnished mid-term rentals (e.g., 30+ day executive rentals), which may still be permitted under local laws.

Final Thoughts & Call-to-Action

• Government regulations are changing the short-term rental landscape in Greater Vancouver.

• Register before May 1, 2025, to avoid penalties and disruptions to your rental income.

• If these changes affect your investment strategy, let’s discuss your options.

📌 Check official sources for full details:
🔗 BC Short-Term Rental Registry
🔗 BC Short-Term Rental Legislation

Thinking of buying or selling in Vancouver, North Vancouver, or West Vancouver? Let’s connect!

#ShortTermRentalRules #VancouverRealEstate #NorthVancouverHomes #WestVancouverInvestments

Looking for a pet-friendly condo that welcomes your four-legged friend? 🐶🏡

I’ve put together a FREE guide with a complete list of dog-friendly condo buildings in Lower Lonsdale, North Vancouver. Whether you're a long-time dog owner or thinking of getting a new pup, this guide will simplify your search so you can find a home you both love.

🐾 What's Inside the Guide?

✔ A list of strata buildings that allow dogs
✔ Important pet-related strata rules to consider
✔ Tips to make your home search easier

📥 Click below to download your FREE Dog-Friendly Condos in Lower Lonsdale guide instantly!

About Davis Kosowan

Hi, I’m Davis Kosowan, a North Shore Realtor and dog owner. I know how important it is to find a condo that not only works for you but is also in a strata building that allows dogs!

That’s why I created this guide—to make your Lower Lonsdale condo search easier. I’ve done the research so you don’t have to!

Need help finding the right home for you and your dog? Let’s chat! 🐕📞

CLICK HERE TO CONNECT!

If you own a condo in North Vancouver and have been considering selling, you might be wondering: Is now the right time? The real estate market has been shifting, and with mortgage rates stabilizing and buyer activity increasing, 2025 is shaping up to be an interesting year for sellers. Let’s take a look at what’s happening in the North Vancouver condo market and whether now is a good time to list your property.

1. Buyer Activity Is on the Rise

After a period of hesitation due to higher mortgage rates, buyers are returning to the market. According to recent data, home sales in Metro Vancouver surged over 30% in December 2024 compared to the previous year, signaling renewed momentum. With interest rates expected to continue easing, more buyers will be looking to secure a property before prices rise.

2. Condo Prices Remain Strong

The MLS® Home Price Index for Metro Vancouver shows that condo prices have remained relatively stable, even with market fluctuations. While overall sales volume was below the 10-year average last year, North Vancouver remains one of the most desirable areas for condo buyers.

How Does This Benefit Sellers?

• Stable prices mean less risk of underpricing your condo.

• Increased buyer demand creates more competition among buyers.

• If you list now, you could sell before inventory levels increase.

3. North Vancouver’s Desirability Continues to Grow

North Vancouver remains a top choice for condo buyers due to:
✅ Proximity to downtown Vancouver
✅ Access to world-class outdoor amenities and parks
✅ Strong sense of community and urban convenience
✅ Limited condo inventory keeping demand high

What Types of Condos Are in Demand?

• Move-in ready condos with updated kitchens & bathrooms

• Well-managed strata buildings with strong financials

4. Market Trends Favor Serious Sellers

Buyers today are well-informed and selective. They want modern, well-maintained condos with updated finishes and strong strata financials. If your condo is in great condition and priced competitively, it could sell quickly.

What to Expect in the 2025 Market

• More buyers entering the market as interest rates decline

• Potential price increases in the next few months

• Growing competition from other sellers waiting to list

So, Should You Sell Now?

✅ If you want to take advantage of increased buyer activity, now is a good time to list.
✅ If you have an updated, well-maintained condo, you could attract multiple offers.
✅ If interest rates continue to drop, the market could see further price increases—but also more competition from other sellers.

If you’re thinking about selling, having the right strategy is key. Pricing your condo correctly, staging it effectively, and marketing it to the right buyers will make all the difference.

Next Steps: Let’s Talk!

Selling a condo in North Vancouver requires a smart approach. If you want to know what your condo is worth in today’s market and how to maximize your sale, let’s connect for a personalized consultation.

Thinking of buying or selling in North or West Vancouver? Let’s connect!

#NorthVancouverRealEstate #CondoMarketTrends #SellingYourHome #VancouverRealEstate