VANCOUVER, BC – April 2, 2026 – Home sales registered on the MLS® in Metro Vancouver* continue evolving at a pace similar to last year, with the sales down roughly three per cent from last March.

The Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR) reports that residential sales in the region totalled 2,032 in March 2026, a 2.8 per cent decrease from the 2,091 sales recorded in March 2025. This was 31.8 per cent below the 10-year seasonal average (2,981).

“Year-to-date, sales are tracking our forecast for the year closely, and the weakness in demand we continue to observe at the aggregate level is unsurprising,” said Andrew Lis, GVR chief economist and vice-president data analytics.

“What’s interesting is that the aggregate total masks an emerging divergence among market segments. While the multifamily segment continues to see slower sales, the detached segment may be awakening with sales up, and new listings down from last year.”

There were 5,792 detached, attached and apartment properties newly listed for sale on the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in Metro Vancouver in March 2026. This represents a 10.3 per cent decrease compared to the 6,455 properties listed in March 2025. This was 4.9 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average (5,521).

The total number of properties currently listed for sale on the MLS® system in Metro Vancouver is 14,774, a 1.6 per cent increase compared to March 2025 (14,546). This is 38 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average (10,704).

Across all detached, attached and apartment property types, the sales-to-active listings ratio for March 2026 is 14.2 per cent. By property type, the ratio is 11 per cent for detached homes, 17.2 per cent for attached, and 15.7 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.

Despite recent headlines suggesting rent prices are easing, the reality for many Vancouver residents tells a different story. A large portion of renters still find themselves spending far beyond what’s considered affordable.

The 30% Rule Is Being Broken

Traditionally, housing is considered affordable if it costs no more than 30% of your income.

But in Vancouver:

• Many renters exceed this threshold significantly

• Some are allocating 50% or more of their income to rent

This creates financial strain and limits savings potential.

Why Rent Still Feels So Expensive

Even with slight rent declines:

• Wages haven’t kept pace

• Cost of living remains high

• High demand persists in desirable neighborhoods

Additionally, Vancouver continues to rank among the most expensive rental markets in Canada.

Supply Is Rising—So Why Isn’t It Helping More?

There has been an increase in housing supply, which has contributed to:

• Stabilizing rent prices

• Slight year-over-year declines

However:

• Demand is still strong

• New units are often priced at premium levels

• Older “affordable” units are limited

What This Means for Buyers and Sellers

This rental pressure creates ripple effects:

• Renters may rush into homeownership sooner

• Investors see continued rental demand

• Sellers may benefit from increased buyer urgency

The Vancouver rental market is shifting—but not enough to relieve pressure for most residents.

Affordability remains the core issue, and until incomes and supply align more realistically, this challenge will persist.

Want to understand how this affects your real estate decisions?

👉 Reach out for a personalized strategy
👉 Or explore more market insights here:
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The Greater Vancouver real estate market is shaped by a wide range of factors, including interest rates, housing supply, and government policy. However, one of the most important—and often misunderstood—elements is the role of Indigenous land claims.

As British Columbia continues to address longstanding questions around land ownership and rights, these claims are beginning to influence real estate in meaningful ways.

What Are Indigenous Land Claims?

Indigenous land claims arise when First Nations assert ownership or rights over traditional territories that were never formally surrendered through treaties.

Unlike other parts of Canada, much of British Columbia is considered unceded land, making the negotiation process particularly significant in this region.

These claims are typically addressed through treaties, court decisions, or government negotiations, all of which can impact land use and development.

Impact on Development and Housing Supply

One of the most immediate effects of Indigenous land claims is on development timelines.

Before new projects can proceed, developers are often required to consult with First Nations. While this process is essential, it can sometimes extend approval timelines and affect the pace of new housing supply entering the market.

At the same time, these processes can lead to more thoughtful and sustainable development outcomes.

New Partnerships and Opportunities

An important trend emerging in recent years is the increase in partnerships between developers and First Nations.

These collaborations are opening the door to new housing projects, particularly on Indigenous-owned land, which can help address housing shortages while supporting economic development within First Nations communities.

What This Means for Buyers and Sellers

For buyers, understanding land claims can provide additional insight into future development and neighborhood changes.

For sellers, it’s an opportunity to better position properties by understanding how local developments and land use policies may evolve.

In some cases, properties near major development areas or Indigenous partnerships may see long-term value growth.

Indigenous land claims will continue to play a significant role in shaping the future of real estate in Greater Vancouver.

While they can introduce complexity, they also represent an important step toward reconciliation and more inclusive land use planning.

As the market continues to evolve, staying informed about factors like Indigenous land claims is essential for making confident real estate decisions.

If you’re considering buying or selling, working with a professional who understands these dynamics can help you navigate the market with clarity and confidence.

Have questions about how this impacts your real estate plans?

Reach out anytime—we’re here to help you make informed decisions in a changing market.

Spring in Vancouver is truly something special. Each year, over 40,000 cherry blossom trees transform the city into a soft canopy of pink and white, creating one of the most anticipated—and fleeting—seasons of the year.

Whether you're a long-time local or new to the city, cherry blossom season is the perfect time to reconnect with Vancouver in a meaningful way.

FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS

🌸 Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival 2026
March 27 – April 12

Celebrate spring with some of the city’s most iconic events:

• Blossoms After Dark (March 27–29)
  Evening strolls under glowing cherry blossoms with live performances and food trucks

• The Big Picnic (March 28–29)
  A classic Vancouver moment—blankets, blossoms, and live entertainment

• Blossom Block Party (April 4)
  Music, dancing, and vibrant spring energy downtown

• Sakura Days Japan Fair (April 11–12)
  Cultural experiences, food, tea ceremonies, and performances

BEST PLACES TO SEE BLOSSOMS

🌸 Where to Go

• Stanley Park
  Iconic views with ocean and mountain backdrops

• Queen Elizabeth Park
  Elevated scenery and longer-lasting blooms

• VanDusen Botanical Garden
  Peaceful, curated gardens with diverse cherry trees

• Nitobe Memorial Garden
  A quiet, reflective Japanese garden experience

SIMPLE WAYS TO ENJOY

🌸 Keep It Simple

Sometimes the best moments are the easiest:

• Picnic at Vanier Park or David Lam Park

• Stroll through Kitsilano, West End, or Arbutus Ridge+

• Bike the blossoms around the city

• Early morning photography walks

• Explore seasonal cafés and treats

🌸 A Season That Doesn’t Last

Cherry blossom season only lasts a few weeks, making it a perfect reminder to slow down and enjoy the moment.

Peak bloom typically falls between late March and early April—so don’t miss it.

Thinking About a Move This Spring?

Spring isn’t just for blossoms—it’s also one of the most active times in Vancouver’s real estate market.

If you’re considering buying or selling, or just want to understand your home’s value, I’m always here to help.

What the New 7% PST on Services Means for Vancouver Real Estate in 2026

In the British Columbia 2026 provincial budget, the government proposed expanding the Provincial Sales Tax (PST) to certain professional services.

• Rate: 7% PST (this is NOT new, PST has always been 7%)

• What’s new: The tax now applies to more services than before
  
  

Effective date: October 1, 2026 (if legislation passes)

Key Clarification

“7% tax on real estate commissions”

❌ This is misleading / partially incorrect

 Reality:

• The 7% PST applies to non-residential (commercial) real estate services only

• Residential real estate commissions are NOT included (as of now)
  
  

What services ARE affected?

Starting Oct 1, 2026, PST will apply to:

1. Professional Services

• Accounting & bookkeeping

• Architectural services

• Engineering & geoscience

• Security services
  

2. Real Estate (Important for your niche)

• Commercial real estate commissions

• Property management (rental, strata)

• Real estate trading services
  
  

How this impacts Real Estate (Content Gold)

1. Higher transaction costs (Commercial)

• Buyers & sellers of commercial properties will pay more closing costs

• Commissions now include +7% PST
  

2. Increased operating costs

• Property management fees now taxed

• Likely passed down to:
  

  • Landlords

  • Tenants

  • Businesses
    

3. Potential ripple effect

Even though residential isn’t taxed directly:

• Higher commercial costs → higher rents → affordability pressure

• Developers face higher “soft costs” (design, engineering)

• Could indirectly affect housing supply & pricing
  

Why the government is doing this

The province says:

• BC has a narrow tax base on services

• Other provinces already tax many of these services

• This is meant to modernize the tax system
  

What’s still unclear

• Final legislation is not yet fully confirmed (pending Royal Assent)

• How mixed-use properties (residential + commercial) will be treated

• Whether more services could be added later
  

What the New 7% PST on Services Means for Vancouver Real Estate in 2026

In the British Columbia 2026 provincial budget, the government proposed expanding the Provincial Sales Tax (PST) to certain professional services.

• Rate: 7% PST (this is NOT new, PST has always been 7%)

• What’s new: The tax now applies to more services than before
  

Effective date: October 1, 2026 (if legislation passes)

Key Clarification (VERY IMPORTANT for your content)

The statement:

“7% tax on real estate commissions”

This is misleading / partially incorrect

 Reality:

• The 7% PST applies to non-residential (commercial) real estate services only
  

Residential real estate commissions are NOT included (as of now)

What services ARE affected?

Starting Oct 1, 2026, PST will apply to:

1. Professional Services

• Accounting & bookkeeping

• Architectural services

• Engineering & geoscience

• Security services
  

2. Real Estate (Important for your niche)

• Commercial real estate commissions

• Property management (rental, strata)

• Real estate trading services
  
  

How this impacts Real Estate (Content Gold)

1. Higher transaction costs (Commercial)

• Buyers & sellers of commercial properties will pay more closing costs

• Commissions now include +7% PST
  

2. Increased operating costs

• Property management fees now taxed

• Likely passed down to:
  

  • Landlords

  • Tenants

  • Businesses
    

3. Potential ripple effect

Even though residential isn’t taxed directly:

• Higher commercial costs → higher rents → affordability pressure

• Developers face higher “soft costs” (design, engineering)

• Could indirectly affect housing supply & pricing
  
  

Why the government is doing this

The province says:

• BC has a narrow tax base on services

• Other provinces already tax many of these services

• This is meant to modernize the tax system
  

What’s still unclear

• Final legislation is not yet fully confirmed (pending Royal Assent)

• How mixed-use properties (residential + commercial) will be treated

• Whether more services could be added later