The Metro Vancouver real estate market is known for its complexity. Each neighbourhood can have completely different trends, changes, and developments that make each city unique.
2025 has been no different. With distinct trends that are shaping how buyers and sellers are approaching their real estate journey.
Here are some of the top trends we’re seeing so far in 2025, across Metro Vancouver.
(Heads up! These can change, so feel free to contact us if you have specific questions.)
The Top Real Estate Trends so Far in 2025
1. A Balanced Market Between Buyers and Sellers
Overall, the Metro Vancouver market has transitioned into a more balanced state, with a sales-to-active listings ratio of 14.9% in March 2025, according to The Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR). A market is considered balanced when this ratio sits between 12% and 20%, creating fair opportunities for both buyers and sellers.
What This Means for Buyers
This balanced market spells good news for buyers. With no excessive upward pressure on prices, you have the space to negotiate without the craziness of bidding wars.
If the timing is right for you, it’s a great time to look for a home as there is good inventory out there, leaving you good selections without rushing into a deal because it’s a seller’s market.
What This Means for Sellers
With a balance market, this means you may have to be more strategic in your listing. This is different now compared to when there were bidding wars and barely any inventory like in 2021.
That said, priced-right homes are still selling steadily. Make sure you work with a realtor to strategically price your property to attract motivated buyers.
2. Localized Trends Vary by Neighbourhood
Not all cities and neighbourhoods within Metro Vancouver are reflecting the same trends. For instance, Surrey Central has been seeing a tough market for sellers. Whereas places like MetroTown are holding steady.
Highly desirable regions, such as Vancouver’s west-side neighbourhoods, continue to hover near seller’s market conditions, while areas farther east (e.g., Coquitlam and Surrey) are seeing stronger buyer’s markets. This is backed by GVR’s data showing variations in active listings and ratio trends depending on region.
What This Means for Buyers
If your dream location feels out of reach, give it time for that right home to hit the market. Or, consider nearby areas that may offer similar amenities at lower prices. For example, North Vancouver offers similar scenic benefits as West Vancouver but at a friendlier price point.
What This Means for Sellers
If you’re getting ready to sell, it’ll be very important to work with a Realtor for a proper Comparative Market Analysis (CMA), to list your home at a competitive but fair price. As each city changes in terms of listing price and comparables. If it’s not a favourable time given your location, it can sometimes be best to hang tight.
3. Stable or Slightly Declining Home Prices
2025 has maintained stable pricing trends or slight declines, with the benchmark price for all residential properties in Metro Vancouver at $1,190,900 as of March, down 0.6% from March 2024. A balance in supply and demand has kept prices from rising or sharply falling.
What This Means for Buyers
This stability offers you a less volatile market to work with. You can take your time making purchasing decisions without fearing drastic price fluctuations.
What This Means for Sellers
While price growth is slower, a stable market also means you avoid the downturns that can leave properties sitting idle. Focus on presenting your property in its best light by staging, great photos, and competitive pricing.
4. Increased Inventory Levels Despite Supply Problems
Metro Vancouver has seen an impressive 37.9% increase in active listings in March 2025 compared to the same time last year. This is great news for buyers. More selection and less competition..
What This Means for Buyers
You’re now working with the largest inventory in years, offering more choices. Take your time to see various properties. If you see a property you love, be prepared to move quickly, but rest assured that it’s a more balanced market.
What This Means for Sellers
If you’re selling a detached home or apartment, expect to face more competition with increased listings.
5. A Market Favourable for New Home Buyers
With mortgage rates continuing to decrease from their highs and increased government intervention aimed at first-time buyers, if you’re looking to buy your first home, it could be a great time to enter the market. There are various first time home buyers incentives, too.
What This Means for Buyers
If you’re a first-time buyer, now is an excellent opportunity to enter the market. Consider consulting with a mortgage advisor to see how much you can get approved for, or start the conversation with a qualified Realtor, like Daniel John, to see what your next step is.
What This Means for Sellers
If your home fits the profile of what first-time buyers typically seek (e.g., condo units or entry-level detached homes), this could be a good time to list.
Other Trends and Tips to Look Out For
Steady Decline in Luxury Home Market Sales
Insights from Sotheby’s suggest that luxury condo properties are experiencing slower sales. For buyers, this could mean good opportunities to negotiate.
Urban Rentals Seeing High Demand
With high interest rates discouraging some from entering the ownership market, the rental sector is thriving, while still down from its 2023 high. If buying isn’t a priority, rentals in Metro Vancouver are growing, with landlords seeing high demand for one- and two-bedroom units.
Final Thoughts
The Metro Vancouver housing market in 2025 is full of movement and opportunity, but staying ahead means staying informed. From shifting buyer preferences to evolving market conditions, understanding these five key trends can make all the difference. Whether you’re planning to buy, sell, or just keep an eye on the market, knowledge is your greatest asset. With the right prep and resources, you’ll feel confident navigating the ever-changing Metro Vancouver market.
