• March is where we typically see things pick up for spring, but this year it’s been more gradual

• Buyers are out, but they’re taking their time and being selective

• Sales are slightly down year-over-year
  → 2,032 sales, down 2.8% from March last year
  → Still sitting well below the 10-year average

• New listings actually pulled back
  → Down 10.3% compared to last year
  → A bit of a shift, as we usually see more inventory building this time of year

• Overall, we’re in balanced market territory
  → Sales-to-active listings ratio at 14.2%

• Detached homes are starting to show some movement
  → Sales up 8.3% year-over-year
  → Fewer listings, which is helping that segment

• Apartments are still quieter
  → Sales down 7.8%
  → Prices also down compared to last year

• Townhomes are somewhere in between
  → Slight dip in sales
  → Prices holding fairly steady month-to-month

• Year-over-year prices are still down across the board
  → Detached: down 8.2%
  → Apartments: down 7.8%
  → Townhomes: down 5.7%

• Month-to-month tells a calmer story
  → Detached: up 1%
  → Townhomes: up 0.1%
  → Apartments: down 0.2%

• Market conditions really depend on property type right now
  → Detached: softer at 11% ratio
  → Attached: more balanced at 17.2%
  → Apartments: sitting around 15.7%

• What I’m seeing overall
  → The market isn’t moving as one — it’s splitting by segment
  → Detached may be waking up a bit
  → Multifamily is still taking longer to find its footing

• The takeaway
  → This is a very strategy-driven market
  → Pricing, presentation, and timing matter more than ever
  → Broad stats only tell part of the story — each property is its own micro-market

If you’re thinking about buying or selling this spring, it’s worth having a more tailored conversation based on your specific situation.

Bridget 604-805-6820

Spring brings momentum—and a common question: should you renovate before listing, or sell as-is?

In 2026, buyers are more thoughtful and quick to factor in uncertainty. That doesn’t mean you need a full renovation. It means focusing on the right level of preparation.

The goal: reduce friction, not chase perfection

Before spending money, ask:

• Will this broaden the buyer pool?

• Will it improve the first impression?

• Will it reduce “what else is hiding?” concerns?

If yes, it’s worth considering. If it’s mainly personal taste, it may not move the result.

Quick wins (usually worth it)

Simple updates that improve how your home shows:

• Fresh paint and minor patching

• Brighter, consistent lighting

• Fix small repairs (doors, taps, trim, caulking)

• Deep clean and declutter

• Create a functional, welcoming entry

These help buyers feel confident without needing to imagine potential.

Money pits (usually avoid before listing)

High-cost projects that don’t always pay back:

• Full kitchen or bathroom renovations

• Major layout changes

• Large exterior projects without clear timelines

• Highly personalized design choices

If you’re spending at this level, it should be for your own use—not just resale.

What buyers are paying for right now

• Move-in readiness (not perfection, just less work)

• Clear documentation and maintenance history

• Functional layouts that support daily life

The common thread is simplicity—homes that feel easy to understand.

What this means across B.C.

While each market is a bit different, the pattern is consistent:

• Metro Vancouver: presentation and condition matter more

• Sea to Sky: function and durability stand out

• Okanagan: outdoor space and usability carry weight

• Sunshine Coast: maintenance history and predictability matter

Across the board, thoughtful preparation tends to outperform major renovations.

The takeaway

In this market, clarity wins.

For most sellers, the best approach is:

• A targeted refresh

• Strong presentation

• Clear, upfront information

Not sure which direction makes the most sense for your home?
Reach out—happy to walk through it with you and help you decide what’s actually worth doing.

604-805-6820