Sheila Sontz Real Estate

08/30/2026

B.C. Home Construction Remains Strong Amid Market Shifts
This year, we’re seeing a noticeable shift in new home construction across B.C. Single-detached home registrations have dropped to 2,517—well below the five-year average of 4,146. Multi-unit registrations are also down, with 19,994 compared to 22,347 in recent years. Interestingly, Metro Vancouver is still leading the way in single-detached construction, accounting for 36.6% of these starts. As someone who has worked extensively in Vancouver Westside, Eastside, Downtown, New Westminster, and Surrey, I’m closely watching how these trends might shape the opportunities and choices for buyers and sellers in our market.
https://www.housing-trends.com/agent-news/sheila-sontz/1889285-B.C.-Home-Construction-Remains-Strong-Amid-Market-Shifts

08/29/2026

Vancouver Home Buyers Enjoy More Choices in Market
July brought a shift in Metro Vancouver’s market, with home sales dipping by 9.8% and apartment transactions falling 17.8%. New listings were down 11.5%, while active inventory edged lower by 4%. We also saw a modest price adjustment of about 1%, placing the benchmark at $1,088,800. As someone who’s guided clients through Vancouver Westside, Eastside, Downtown, New Westminster, and Surrey, I’ve seen how these numbers can influence your real estate journey. Staying informed about these trends is key to making smart decisions, whether you’re buying or selling.
https://www.housing-trends.com/agent-news/sheila-sontz/1890995-Vancouver-Home-Buyers-Enjoy-More-Choices-in-Market

08/28/2026

Vancouver Housing Market Poised for Future Growth Opportunities
Did you know Metro Vancouver condo construction is hitting historic lows? 🏗️ With economic uncertainty & high mortgage rates, fewer new homes are on the horizon—yet resale sales are bouncing back! What does this mean for buyers & renters? 🏠🤔
https://www.housing-trends.com/agent-news/sheila-sontz/1887429-Vancouver-Housing-Market-Poised-for-Future-Growth-Opportunit

08/27/2026

First-Time Buyer Math Is Shifting
The numbers for first-time buyers are evolving—and they tell a more nuanced story than the classic rent-versus-own debate might suggest. In a recent study of 136 cities, owning outpaced renting in 41% of them once the value of building equity was factored in. Even though the median city still leaned toward renting, the full picture highlights how principal paydown and local price appreciation can make ownership a powerful way to build wealth beyond just covering your monthly costs. The analysis zeroed in on markets where low-down-payment loans are common, comparing typical three-bedroom rents with estimated ownership expenses for buyers. What stands out to me, working with clients across Vancouver Westside, Eastside, Downtown, New Westminster, and Surrey, is just how much local factors matter: appreciation rates can vary widely, but every mortgage payment chips away at your principal, creating guaranteed equity. Of course, rates, affordability, and costs like maintenance or strata fees all play into the equation—so it's important to weigh these elements thoughtfully as you consider your next move.

08/26/2026

Canada First-Time Buyer Rules Differ
In my experience helping clients navigate the Vancouver and Greater Vancouver markets, I’ve seen many buyers surprised by how Canada defines 'first-time buyer'—it’s not always as straightforward as you’d think. In Canada, your eligibility as a first-time buyer depends on more than just whether you’ve owned property before. Federal programs often look at whether you’ve lived in a home you owned during the current year or the past four years. For insured mortgages, the focus is on whether you’ve ever purchased, recently lived in an owned home, or have gone through a separation. And provincial rules can be even stricter—Ontario, for example, typically uses a lifetime ownership test for its land transfer tax refund, which can shut the door even if federal programs say you qualify. The bottom line: don’t assume you’re in or out until you know which definition applies to your situation. Clarifying this can make a big difference when it comes to the benefits available to Canadian homebuyers.

08/25/2026

Secure Your Future with Smart Pre-Construction Investments
Exclusive access to top developments, expert guidance, and insights to help you buy before the market moves.

Exclusive access to top developments, expert guidance, and insights to help you buy before the market moves.

08/25/2026

Riley Park Farmers Market - Summer
Let’s connect and talk about the latest insights in the industry!

08/24/2026

Metro Vancouver: July 2026 Sales Cool Again

08/24/2026

Vancouver Sales Slide in July 2026

08/22/2026

Vancouver Homebuyers Enjoy More Choices as Sales Ease
Did you know? 🏠 Greater Vancouver home sales dropped nearly 10% in July, falling well below the 10-year average! Prices and listings are also down. What do you think this means for buyers and sellers? 🤔📉 Share your thoughts!
https://www.housing-trends.com/agent-news/sheila-sontz/1874468-Vancouver-Homebuyers-Enjoy-More-Choices-as-Sales-Ease