Buyers are gaining leverage as inventory climbs — but for how long?
After years of bidding wars and ultra-tight supply, Vancouver’s condo market is showing real signs of cooling — at least on the surface.
According to the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver (REBGV), condo listings surged 17% in June 2025 compared to May. That marks the biggest monthly jump in inventory since late 2022, giving buyers more breathing room and putting some downward pressure on prices in certain neighbourhoods.

“It’s not panic selling,” one West End realtor told Mortgage.Expert. “It’s people trying to get ahead of rate changes and tap equity before summer ends.”

What’s Causing the Inventory Spike?

Several factors appear to be driving the surge in listings:

Rate fatigue — Some sellers want to offload before mortgage renewals at higher rates.
Investor exits — Short-term rental rule changes and higher borrowing costs are pushing some investors to sell.
Seasonal listing rush — June is traditionally busy, but this year’s inventory spike is unusually sharp.

Meanwhile, sales remain relatively flat — up just 1.2% month-over-month — meaning more listings aren’t being absorbed, giving buyers a rare advantage in one of Canada’s tightest urban markets.

What It Means for Buyers

If you’ve been waiting for the Vancouver condo market to breathe — this may be your moment. More listings means:

Better negotiating power
Fewer bidding wars
More time to review strata docs and financing

However, this window might not last long. If Bank of Canada cuts rates this fall, sidelined buyers could flood back in — re-tightening conditions fast.
New construction could be playing a role in rising listings — see how Vancouver leads national housing starts. Want a broader view of what’s next? Explore our detailed 2025 Vancouver housing outlook.

📋 Buyer Checklist in a Cooling Market

📑 Review strata documents early: With more time and less pressure, do a full review of financials, meeting minutes, and reserve fund health.
📊 Don’t skip your pre-approval: Even in a buyer’s market, strong financing gives you an edge in negotiations.
💰 Ask for incentives: Sellers may offer credits, furniture inclusions, or flexible closing dates — now’s the time to ask.
🔍 Inspect thoroughly: Slower markets mean more time for due diligence. Book that full home inspection.
📉 Monitor price drops: Watch for listings sitting 30+ days — many will be open to serious offers below asking.

Use this market shift to your advantage — but stay sharp. Cooling doesn’t mean risk-free.