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REBGV Market Update: Home buyer demand stays below historical averages in August

Hunter by The Intergulf Group of Companies. Now selling in North Vancouver.

Home buyer demand stays below historical averages in August

VANCOUVER, BC – September 5, 2018
The Metro Vancouver housing market continues to experience reduced demand across all housing types.

The Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver (REBGV) reports that residential home sales in the region totalled 1,929 in August 2018, a 36.6 per cent decrease from the 3,043 sales recorded in August 2017, and a 6.8 per cent decline compared to July 2018 when 2,070 homes sold. Last month’s sales were 25.2 per cent below the 10-year August sales average.

“Home buyers have been less active in recent months and we’re beginning to see prices edge down for all housing types as a result,” Phil Moore, REBGV president said. “Buyers today have more listings to choose from and face less competition than we’ve seen in our market in recent years.”

There were 3,881 detached, attached and apartment homes newly listed for sale on the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in Metro Vancouver in August 2018. This represents an 8.6 per cent decrease compared to the 4,245 homes listed in August 2017 and an 18.6 per cent decrease compared to July 2018 when 4,770 homes were listed.

The total number of homes currently listed for sale on the MLS® system in Metro Vancouver is 11,824, a 34.3 per cent increase compared to August 2017 (8,807) and a 2.6 per cent decrease compared to July 2018 (12,137). The sales-to-active listings ratio for August 2018 is 16.3 per cent. By housing type, the ratio is 9.2 per cent for detached homes, 19.4 per cent for townhomes, and 26.6 per cent for apartments.

Generally, analysts say that downward pressure on home prices occurs when the ratio dips below the 12 per cent mark for a sustained period, while home prices often experience upward pressure when it surpasses 20 per cent over several months.

“With fewer buyers active in the market, benchmark prices across all three housing categories have declined for two consecutive months across the region,” Moore said.

For a complete copy of the press release, click here:
https://www.rebgv.ca/content/dam/REBGV/Documents/Statistics/Residential/Media%20Stats%20Package/2018/2018-08-August-Stats-Package

Please note, market conditions can vary from neighbourhood to neighbourhood and product type to product type. If you’re thinking about making a move, get informed on the market conditions for the homes in your neighbourhood. If you’re considering selling your home, contact Chris today for a complimentary and no obligation market evaluation. In a changing market it’s important to stay informed and make decisions based on good solid research.

Chris can be reached at 778-881-0673 or by email at Chris@chrisbrownrealestate.ca.