2025 BC Real Estate Market Outlook: Why Lower Mainland Buyers & Investors Should Act Now

What’s Happening in the Lower Mainland Real Estate Market in 2025?

The Lower Mainland real estate market in 2025 presents a unique landscape for buyers and investors. With stabilizing prices, increased inventory, and supportive policies, it's an opportune time to consider entering the market.

Market Overview: Stability and Opportunity

• Balanced Market Conditions: The sales-to-active listings ratio in Metro Vancouver stands at 14.9% as of March 2025, indicating a balanced market that favors neither buyers nor sellers exclusively.

• Stable Prices: The benchmark price for all residential properties in Metro Vancouver is $1,190,900, reflecting a slight decrease of 0.6% from the previous year.

• Increased Inventory: Active listings have surged by 37.9% in March 2025 compared to the same time last year, providing buyers with more options and reducing competition.

Projections for 2025: Growth on the Horizon

• Sales Growth: The British Columbia Real Estate Association (BCREA) forecasts a 13% increase in MLS® residential sales in 2025, reaching 84,500 units.

• Modest Price Increase: Average home prices in BC are projected to rise by a modest 3.3% in 2025, following flat prices in 2024.

• Interest Rates: The Bank of Canada is expected to continue easing monetary policy, potentially stabilizing the overnight rate near 2.5% by year-end, which could further improve affordability.

Why It's a Great Time for Buyers and Investors

• Affordability Programs: New government policies, such as longer amortization periods for first-time homebuyers and increased mortgage insurance caps, are making homeownership more accessible.

• Tax Incentives: The introduction of the BC Home Flipping Tax and expanded Speculation and Vacancy Tax aim to stabilize the market and encourage long-term investment.

• Market Timing: With prices expected to rise and interest rates potentially decreasing, entering the market now could yield long-term financial benefits.

Navigating the Market with Keystone Real Estate Group

At Keystone Real Estate group, we combine local expertise with data-driven insights to pinpoint properties that match your budget and goals. Whether you’re a first-time buyer seeking affordable homes in Lower Mainland BC or an investor targeting long-term rental cash flow, our team:

• Monitors MLS® for emerging opportunities before they hit mass listings

• Leverages negotiation tactics honed in buyer-favourable markets

• Coordinates with mortgage professionals to secure competitive rates

• Provides ongoing portfolio reviews to maximize return on investment

Referenced Sources:

1. BCREA Housing Forecast 2025
   British Columbia Real Estate Association’s official projections for home sales, price trends, and interest rates.

2. Metro Vancouver Real Estate Board – 2025 Trends
   Monthly market insights including sales ratios, pricing benchmarks, and inventory updates.

3. BC Assessment 2025 – Lower Mainland Summary
   Annual evaluation of property values across Metro Vancouver and surrounding municipalities.

4. Tran & Tran – BC Housing Policy Updates
   Coverage of BC’s Home Flipping Tax, amortization policy shifts, and investment regulations.