2015 was the strongest in the past few years with 102,517 MLS residential sales. Economists believe that this year will follow suit with strong consumer demand, however, with a slight 6.2% decline in sales bringing it under the 100k mark to a projected 96,100 units in 2016 and 98,000 units in 2017. A visual representation of BC's MLS Residential Sales are shown below starting from 2005 to 2017F.
BC's relatively robust economy coupled with strong net interprovincial migration has subsequently led to the strong housing demand that we have been seeing. Residential sales over the next two years are projected to remain well above the ten-year average of 83,200 units. In addition to strong housing demand, the average MLS residential price in BC is forecasted at $677,200 (6.4% increase) in 2016 and a further 4.1% to $705,300 in 2017.
"The inventory of homes for sale is now at its lowest level in almost a decade," said Cameron Muir, BCREA Chief Economist. "Fewer homes for sale and strong consumer demand are expected to push home prices higher in most BC regions this year and in 2017."
In line with the strong housing demand and low inventory levels, new home construction activity is expected to be on the rise to combat the issues of not having enough inventory to supply the high demand. This issue is particularly present on the South Coast.
For all your real estate needs, contact Amalia Liapis at amalia@wesellvancouver.ca or alternatively at 604-618-7000.
Source: BCREA Economics
The data relating to real estate on this website comes in part from the MLS® Reciprocity program of either the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver (REBGV), the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board (FVREB) or the Chilliwack and District Real Estate Board (CADREB). Real estate listings held by participating real estate firms are marked with the MLS® logo and detailed information about the listing includes the name of the listing agent. This representation is based in whole or part on data generated by either the REBGV, the FVREB or the CADREB which assumes no responsibility for its accuracy. The materials contained on this page may not be reproduced without the express written consent of either the REBGV, the FVREB or the CADREB.