Is 2026 the right time to buy or wait?

Should You Buy a Home in Vancouver in 2026? Rent vs Buy Breakdown for First-Time Buyers

The Vancouver real estate market is entering 2026 with a noticeably different pace. Prices have adjusted from previous highs, inventory levels are up, and buyers are no longer facing the intense competition that defined the market in recent years. For many, this shift is creating space to think strategically rather than react quickly.

As a Vancouver Realtor working with buyers across the city, West Vancouver, North Vancouver and throughout the lower mainland, I’m seeing a change that matters. Buyers have more choice, more flexibility, and more negotiating power than they’ve had in years. This is especially relevant for first-time home buyers and those considering buying a condo, presale property, or house in Vancouver.

At the same time, housing costs across the region continue to rise, making the decision of whether to buy more important than ever. For many people, the question has evolved from “Can I buy?” to “Does it make sense not to?”

What this means for you is opportunity. Whether you’re a first-time home buyer in BC, looking to purchase a condo, exploring a presale condo, or planning to buy a house in Vancouver, 2026 may offer a chance to start building long-term equity instead of continuing to pay rising housing costs.

Before you commit, it’s important to understand your full picture. Budget, lifestyle, and mortgage options all play a role. Working with the right mortgage broker and a knowledgeable real estate broker can make a meaningful difference in navigating today’s market.

My role as a Realtor in Vancouver is to guide you through every step, explain your options clearly, and protect your best interests. Whether you’re researching top Vancouver real estate agents, looking for a real estate brokerage near you, or just starting to explore what buying could look like, having the right information matters.

If you’re wondering whether buying in 2026 makes sense for your situation, I’m here to help you walk through it with confidence.

📞 If you’re buying or selling in Vancouver and want clarity on appraisals, lending, and the full buying process — let’s connect.

Erin Price Emery

Vancouver REALTOR® | The Collective Real Estate Team | Oakwyn Realty

Contact me: erin@priceemery.com 

Call or text: 604-767-7725

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