Housing market poised for modest rebound in 2026: BC Real Estate Association
Posted January 29, 2026 6:56 am.
After B.C.’s weakest year of home sales in more than a decade, some experts suggest the market may rebound in 2026.
BC Real Estate Association Chief Economist Brendon Ogmundson says most of the province will have “an average year,” but it’s a different story for Metro Vancouver.
CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO 1130 NEWSRADIO VANCOUVER LIVE!According to the association’s latest report, while most of the province is returning to a normal pace of sales activity, Metro Vancouver will recover more slowly.
“Sales will be up and closer to a 10-year average by the end of the year,” Ogmundson explained. “But probably a below-average year in terms of sales for Vancouver in 2026.”
Other economists agree that while the market will bounce back — due to stable mortgage rates and pent-up demand — sales will be constrained.
Brian Yu, chief economist for the Vancouver-based financial institution Central 1, says he expects to see a five to 10 per cent increase in home sales.
“That’s still a very low level. Home prices are likely to remain relatively flat — we just have excess inventory right now,” Yu explained.
B.C. home sales dropped five per cent in 2025. In Metro Vancouver, sales dropped 10 per cent.
“It was the worst year for sales in 25 years,” said Ogmundson. “So we’re not expecting a repeat of that, but I don’t think it’s gonna be a rapid recovery either.”
Adil Dinani, a local realtor with Royal LePage, has some recommendations for those looking to buy or sell in 2026.
“We haven’t had this much inventory in nearly two decades, and so buyers have time, buyers have selection, and buyers have the upper hand at the negotiating table,” said Dinani.
“Sellers have to be in tune and aligned with the data. So get a really good agent in your corner who will tell you what you need to hear versus what you want to hear.”
The BCREA believes a modest rebound this year could mean even more activity in 2027. But if last year was any indication, forecasts are subject to change.
“We have a baseline forecast for what we think is a pretty good, stable path for recovery,” said Ogmundson.
“But [there are] all kinds of risks on the horizon that can totally upend that optimism.”
