In this blog, we'll be touching base again on the demand for housing in the Greater Vancouver Region. As stated in the previous blog, the demand for housing has slightly outpaced the supply for it. In addition, we will be delving into the current status of the real estate market.
The real estate market is cyclical in which several factors such as interest rates, employment growth, investment growth, construction and immigration influence this cycle. These factors affect whether it is a buyer's, seller's or balanced market.
[1] A buyer's market is when the housing supply is greater than the demand. This generally results in housing prices dropping over a period of time due to the fact that home owners may be eager to sell their property.
[2] On the other end of the spectrum is the seller's market. It is when interest rates are low so there are many qualified buyers but not many homes for sale. In this case, buyers must make quick decisions in order to secure a property due to the housing scarcity. Buyers also face competition with multiple offers on the home they are interested in buying and consequently, housing prices may rise.
[3] Lastly, a balanced market is where there supply and demand are fairly equal to one another (not necessarily at equilibrium though).
Ray Harris stated, "[o]ur market today sits on the cusp between a balance and seller's market". To measure market activity, the Sales-to-Listings ratio is often utilized. This tool measures the balance between demand and supply and the market categorization is based off of the ratio.
-- A ratio of three sales for five listings means we are in a seller's market (when the ratio is greater than 55%).
-- A ratio of less than seven sales for every 20 listings means we are in a buyer's market (when the ratio is less than 35%).
-- A ratio between 35 - 55% would be considered a balanced market.
*Market Type Sales Ratio as per the Real Estate Board of Vancouver & most industry analysts.
Source: REBGV Market Type
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.