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The past 60 days across Greater Vancouver have created mixed signals for homeowners and buyers. January sales began the year approximately 28 percent lower than the same time last year and well below the 10 year seasonal average. That headline alone has caused hesitation.
Yet on the ground in Greater Vancouver, North Vancouver, and West Vancouver, activity is not uniform. Some segments are moving steadily. Others are slower. Buyers are cautious, but they are not absent.
Davis Kosowan has been tracking this closely.
“When you look past the headlines and study what is actually selling, you see opportunity. The market is selective, not stalled.”
Here is what that means for buyers and sellers right now.
Insights for Buyers
Over the past two months, many buyers assumed slower overall sales would create heavy negotiating power. Some entered the market expecting substantial discounts simply because activity was down year over year.
What we have seen instead is targeted competition in the entry-level and well-priced segments. One recent example: a buyer looking five entry-level condos priced lower than perceived “market value.” Roughly 75 percent of those homes had accepted offers. These were not bidding wars across the board, but they were clear signals that well-priced properties are attracting real demand.
“Buyers who wait too long on properly priced homes are learning that someone else will step forward,” Davis explains.
This is still a healthier market than the peak frenzy years. Buyers can conduct inspections, review documents carefully, and negotiate terms in many situations. But hesitation on strong value properties is proving costly. Preparation and decisiveness are separating successful buyers from frustrated ones.
Insights for Sellers
For sellers across Greater Vancouver, the past 60 days have reinforced one central theme: pricing strategy is everything.
Homes entering the market aligned with recent comparable sales are generating activity. Properties launched above recent market evidence are sitting longer and often adjusting later. This pattern has been visible in both North Vancouver and West Vancouver, particularly in the condo and mid-range detached segments.
In one recent case, two similar properties launched within weeks of each other. The one positioned at market value attracted early showings and secured an offer. The other tested a higher price and experienced extended days on market before repositioning.
“Today’s buyers are educated,” says Davis. “They know recent sales. When pricing reflects reality, they act.”
Sellers who prepare their homes properly and align with current conditions are still achieving solid results. Those who ignore market evidence are experiencing delays.
Subject to Sale offers are common.
Market Outlook
Looking ahead, selective strength is likely to continue. Entry-level and well-priced properties should remain the most active segments. Downsizers and lifestyle-driven moves continue to generate steady demand, especially in established communities within Greater Vancouver.
Challenges remain. Affordability pressures persist. Buyer confidence is cautious. Homes priced beyond what recent sales support may face longer timelines. However, properly positioned properties are proving that demand still exists.
“This market rewards informed decisions,” Davis notes. “Clients who understand current data and act strategically are gaining an advantage.”
Summary
Here is what the last 60 days show:
• Overall sales are lower than last year.
• Well-priced homes are still selling.
• Buyers are careful but active.
• Pricing correctly is the key to success
The market is steady, not frozen. It favours preparation, realism, and smart timing.
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