After years of soaring prices and fierce bidding wars, the Vancouver apartment market in 2025 is offering something unusual – a window of opportunity for buyers and investors. The Vancouver property market 2025 has shifted into a balanced phase with high inventory, stabilizing prices, and falling interest rates, creating conditions that many experts say favor buyers. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a local investor looking to expand your portfolio, or a foreign investor eyeing Canadian real estate, now may be the best time to buy a Vancouver apartment. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore current Vancouver housing market trends, neighborhood spotlights (Downtown, East Vancouver, Burnaby), up-to-date data on prices and rents, and the key reasons why 2025 presents real estate opportunities Vancouver hasn’t seen in years. By the end, you’ll see why investing in a Vancouver condo today could be a savvy move – and how to act on this moment.
Vancouver Apartment Market in 2025: Overview and Key Trends
The Vancouver real estate investment landscape looks very different now than it did during the frenzied pandemic boom. Here’s a snapshot of what’s happening in 2025:
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Prices Have Softened: The benchmark price for a Metro Vancouver apartment is about $743,700, down 3.2% year-over-year. The average apartment prices in Vancouver are roughly $786,000, reflecting a 3.9% annual decline. Prices are below the all-time highs of spring 2022, giving buyers a chance to get in at a better value than a few years ago.
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Sales Have Slowed: The pace of sales is moderate. In July 2025, around 1,158 condo/apartment units sold in Greater Vancouver. With fewer buyers active, there’s less competition for each listing. This means you’re less likely to encounter bidding wars on Vancouver condos for sale now, compared to the frenzy of 2021.
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Inventory Is High (More Choice): Active listings have surged – over 17,000 properties are on the market, the highest inventory levels in decades. This gives buyers more choice and negotiating power.
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Balanced to Buyer-Leaning Market: The sales-to-active-listings ratio is hovering around 14% – firmly in balanced market territory. This means sellers are more flexible, and buyers can often include subject conditions that would have been impossible during peak times.
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Interest Rates & Mortgages: The Bank of Canada has cut rates by over 2% since mid-2024. Mortgage rates are lower than they’ve been in years, improving affordability. More rate drops may be on the horizon, giving buyers the opportunity to lock in favorable rates now.
Table 1: Vancouver Housing Market Snapshot (Mid-2025)
| Indicator | Value (Mid-2025) | Year-over-Year Change |
|---|---|---|
| Benchmark Apartment Price | ~$743,700 | –3.2% |
| Average Apartment Sale Price | ~$786,000 | –3.9% |
| Active Listings (All property types) | 17,168 listings | +20% |
| Sales-to-Active Listings Ratio | ~14% | Balanced market |
| Average 5-Year Mortgage Rate | ~4.5% | Falling |
| Average Rent (1-bed apartment) | $2,537/month | –8% |
Why 2025 Is an Ideal Time to Buy an Apartment in Vancouver
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Prices Have Adjusted from Peak: Prices are down compared to the last few years, giving buyers a rare chance to purchase at a discount.
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Plenty of Choices & Bargaining Power: High inventory means more selection and stronger negotiation leverage.
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Less Competition: Fewer buyers in the market mean less pressure to rush into decisions.
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Lower Interest Rates Boost Affordability: Falling rates reduce monthly payments and improve purchasing power.
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Strong Rental Demand: Vancouver’s rental market remains among the strongest in Canada, ensuring steady income potential for investors.
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Long-Term Growth Fundamentals: Vancouver’s limited land supply, strong economy, and global appeal point to long-term appreciation.
Neighborhood Spotlight
Downtown Vancouver
Known for luxury living and proximity to work, shopping, and entertainment. Prices remain high but have dipped slightly, allowing buyers to secure prime real estate with less competition.
East Vancouver
Offers more affordable prices with vibrant neighborhoods and strong community vibes. Great for first-time buyers and investors looking for value.
Burnaby
Close to Vancouver with modern condo developments and excellent transit. Offers larger units and amenities at lower prices compared to the downtown core.
Data-Driven Insights
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Record Inventory Levels: Over 17,000 listings give buyers unprecedented choice.
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Moderating Prices: Condo prices have dipped ~3–4% year-over-year.
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Slower Sales Pace: Sellers are more open to offers and conditions.
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Rental Demand: Average 1-bedroom rent remains above $2,500, supporting investor interest.
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Economic Signals: Lower rates and potential further cuts may spur more buying activity in the coming months.
Benefits for Different Buyers
First-Time Buyers
More inventory, fewer bidding wars, and extended amortizations make 2025 a great time to enter the market.
Local Investors
Opportunity to secure rental properties at reduced prices and improved cash flow due to lower interest rates.
Foreign Investors
Market softening allows for strategic entry before potential future demand increases.
Conclusion: Seize the Moment
With softer prices, high inventory, falling rates, and strong long-term fundamentals, now truly is the best time to buy a Vancouver apartment. These buyer-friendly conditions are rare and may not last as rates continue to drop and competition returns.
If you’re ready to explore Vancouver condos for sale or have questions about the market, now is the time to act. Contact Adam Chahl, Vancouver REALTOR® and leader of the Place Real Estate Team, for expert advice and access to the best opportunities available. Whether you’re buying your first home or making a strategic investment, Adam can help you secure the right property at the right price.
FAQs
1. Is 2025 really a good time to buy an apartment in Vancouver?
Yes. With prices slightly lower than in recent years, high inventory levels, and falling interest rates, 2025 offers buyers more choice, better negotiating power, and improved affordability compared to the peak market conditions.
2. Which neighborhoods are best for apartment investment in Vancouver right now?
Downtown, East Vancouver, and Burnaby are all strong options. Downtown offers premium, high-demand properties; East Vancouver provides better value and community appeal; and Burnaby combines modern developments with lower prices and great transit access.
3. How much does an average apartment in Vancouver cost in 2025?
As of mid-2025, the benchmark price for an apartment in Vancouver is around $743,700, with the average sale price at about $786,000. Prices vary by neighborhood, size, and building amenities.
4. Are Vancouver apartments a good investment for rental income?
Yes. With average rents for a one-bedroom around $2,500 and low vacancy rates, apartments in Vancouver can generate strong rental income. Investor returns are further supported by the city’s long-term housing demand.
5. How can I improve my chances of getting a good deal on a Vancouver apartment?
Work with an experienced local REALTOR®, look for motivated sellers, consider properties with longer days on the market, and be prepared to negotiate. Having mortgage pre-approval in place also strengthens your offer.
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