Modest Improvement Takes Hold as Buyers Return to Detached Housing
Detached housing activity in Greater Vancouver and the Fraser Valley showed modest improvement in the first half of 2026, as increased affordability and more stable market conditions brought buyers back to the table. In contrast, the broader market continues to face headwinds, with elevated condominium supply and softer demand tempering the pace of recovery.
New Westminster, Vancouver West and Fraser Valley Lead Sales Growth
Seventy per cent of markets within the overall Vancouver/Fraser Valley real estate boards noted elevated sales activity in the detached segment. In Greater Vancouver, 10 of 17 markets showed improvement in detached sales, with New Westminster (58.1 per cent), Vancouver West (23.3 per cent) and Whistler/Pemberton (20.8 per cent) leading in terms of percentage increases. In the Fraser Valley, all markets reported an increase in sales activity, led by Delta North (21.4 per cent) and White Rock/South Surrey (20.5 per cent).
Blue-Chip Stock in Demand as Trade-Up Gap Narrows
Demand continues to centre on blue-chip housing stock, with life-cycle events prompting buyers to make their moves. As demand builds, more purchasers are expected to enter the market, capitalizing on near-bottom values. The spread between existing home values and move-up properties is considerably narrower than in recent years, making the cost of upsizing far more attainable. Many purchasers are willing to take a loss to position themselves for the future.
Buyers continue to hold the upper hand in the market. Despite the increased pace of home sales, offers contain longer subject removal periods to lower stress levels during buyer due diligence and subject-to-sale clauses.
Luxury and Recreational Markets See Renewed Activity
Although affordability remains the greatest driver in the market to date, there has been substantial movement at higher price points in markets such as Vancouver West where the median price hovers at more than $3 million. Whistler/Pemberton has also had its fair share of activity at a median price of $2.5 million, as some buyers move to secure recreational properties while prices are depressed.
Turnkey Homes Move Faster as Inventory Tightens
Turnkey homes remain most sought after, given that few buyers have the capital necessary to undertake renovations. Most buyers are willing to wait for their opportunity, especially since premium product is coming to market at a discount. At present, many of the listings available for sale are stale dated, while well-appointed and sharply priced new listings tend to move quicker. Still, absorption is evident. The market is seeing inventory levels decline as more product is sold.
Neighbourhood Fundamentals and Commute Times Drive Buyer Decisions
Neighbourhood fundamentals continue to be most important to today’s buyers, with amenities, schools, safety and walkability among the primary considerations. Commute times are also weighing more heavily in purchasing decisions, as traffic and congestion continue to shape daily life across Greater Vancouver.
