05 Jan 2026
JANUARY 2026 FOUNDER’S MESSAGE The Future is Bright
As we celebrate the beginning of the new year, Metro Vancouver’s real estate market is off to a strong start. While the snow-capped North Shore mountains provide a stunning back-drop to our city, now is an ideal time to set new goals for the year ahead.
Metro Vancouver’s real estate market closed out 2025 with favorable conditions. Lower interest rates and last year’s higher inventory levels offered plenty of exciting real estate opportunities throughout the Lower Mainland. There were 65,335 properties listed on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) in 2025. This is an increase of 8.2% compared to 2024. The total number of properties currently listed on the MLS is up 14.6% from the same time last year.
Real estate markets in British Columbia are expected to be balanced in 2026. The anticipated average price in B.C. will rise roughly 4% in 2026 to $995,600, according to the 2025 Fourth Quarter Housing Forecast from the British Columbia Real Estate Association (BCREA). In 2026, Multiple Listing Service (MLS) residential sales in B.C. are forecast to rise 12.8%, said BCREA chief economist Brendon Ogmundson in the report.
One in 10 Canadians are planning on buying a home in 2026 and borrowing costs are expected to remain steady throughout the year. This is all excellent news for both potential buyers and sellers. The Lower Mainland’s real estate market is changing and analysts are predicting it will continue to pick up significantly in the months ahead.
In 2025, there were several meaningful changes that impacted Metro Vancouver’s real estate market in a positive way. These changes are expected to help lead the way this year. Interest rates were the big news in 2025. Last year, the Bank of Canada cut its interest rate multiple times to the current 2.25%, the lowest level seen in several years. These cuts were welcome news for both buyers and sellers. Lower rates allowed more people to qualify for loans and mortgage-holders received relief on their borrowing costs.
Overall, 2025 was a year of easing and stabilization for Canadian interest rates. Market analysts are forecasting lending rates to remain stable throughout 2026. These lower rates are predicted to help create strong demand among potential homebuyers in the months ahead.
With high inventory and lower borrowing costs, January is an excellent time to contact one of our highly knowledgeable advisors to receive an in-depth complimentary comparative market analysis of your property. The market is picking up and you may be surprised to learn what your home is currently worth. Pricing accurately ensures you will consider all your options with confidence.
Metro Vancouver’s rental market was very busy last year and we’re expecting this to continue throughout 2026. Ask VIRANI RENT + MANAGE to help you secure a tenant and professionally manage your home this year. RENT + MANAGE provides clients with a full spectrum of exceptional property and tenant placement services. From procuring and screening tenants to handling monthly payments and repairs, our skilled management team will handle every occupational and operational detail.
As Vancouver’s top rental management and placement brokerage, we provide the most individualized service possible. Whether you’re leasing an individual property, purchasing a selection of homes or buying an entire building for your investment portfolio, we maintain your property to keep it at its best value so you will get the best return. Effective, flawless communication with tenants, an after-hours emergency line, lease negotiations, rent collection and marketing and advertising are some of the exceptional services we provide.
Vancouver remains one of the most livable cities in the world. With breathtaking scenery, mild climate, vibrant culture, strong economy and extraordinary recreational opportunities, our city is renowned for being the lifestyle capital of the world.
January brings a fresh perspective and is traditionally the time to set new goals. As we ring in the new year on an upswing, I hope you’re able to take time to consider your individual real estate needs and prepare for the year ahead. I am looking forward to a bright 2026 together.