Real estate trends 2025

1. Continued Demand for Affordable Housing

One of the most significant challenges in BC’s real estate market in recent years has been the shortage of affordable housing. This trend is expected to continue into 2025, particularly in high-demand areas like Vancouver and Victoria. As home prices remain high, first-time homebuyers will continue to face difficulties finding affordable properties

In response, many buyers will likely explore options outside of traditional city centers, opting for suburban or more rural areas. The demand for homes in places like Langley, Chilliwack, and the Okanagan is expected to increase as people look for more affordable housing options without sacrificing too much on convenience and lifestyle

For sellers, this trend means there may be opportunities to target buyers looking for affordable options, especially if you’re in a more suburban or up-and-coming area

2. Shift Toward Remote and Hybrid Workspaces

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the shift toward remote work, and this trend is expected to continue into 2025. Many companies have adopted hybrid or fully remote work models, allowing employees more flexibility in where they live. As a result, people are no longer as tied to living close to their office and are seeking homes that suit their new work-from-home lifestyle

This shift is creating demand for larger homes with dedicated office spaces, high-speed internet capabilities, and access to outdoor areas. Suburban homes with more square footage are becoming highly desirable as more people prioritize space and comfort. As a result, regions outside major city centers like Vancouver are likely to see an increase in demand, while urban markets may stabilize or slow down slightly

For sellers, this trend could be an opportunity to market your property to remote workers who need space and flexibility

3. Increased Interest in Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Homes

Sustainability is an ever-growing concern for many homebuyers in BC, and in 2025, this trend is expected to gain even more traction. As climate change awareness continues to rise, more buyers are seeking homes with energy-efficient features, sustainable materials, and eco-friendly technologies. Features such as solar panels, energy-efficient appliances, and green building materials are likely to increase a property’s appeal

In addition to environmental concerns, many homebuyers are also looking for homes that are built to withstand extreme weather events. Properties with proper insulation, energy-efficient heating and cooling systems, and flood-proof designs will be highly sought after in areas vulnerable to climate change impacts, such as coastal regions

For sellers, investing in sustainable upgrades can make your property stand out in a competitive market and potentially attract higher offers

4. The Rise of Multi-Generational Homes

With rising housing costs and changing family dynamics, multi-generational homes are expected to become increasingly popular in BC. Many families are opting for larger homes that can accommodate multiple generations—such as parents, adult children, and sometimes even grandparents. This trend is driven by the desire to live together for financial reasons, as well as the growing need for caregivers and family support

Homes with separate living spaces, secondary suites, or large basements are likely to be in high demand. This trend is especially noticeable in suburban and rural markets, where larger properties are more affordable

For buyers, this trend means looking for properties that offer flexibility and room for growth. For sellers, it could be an opportunity to cater to a demographic that requires more space and privacy

5. Technological Advancements and Virtual Real Estate

The role of technology in real estate is evolving rapidly, and by 2025, we can expect even more technological advancements to impact the way we buy and sell homes. Virtual tours, augmented reality (AR), and artificial intelligence (AI) are becoming more prevalent in property marketing, allowing buyers to explore homes remotely and interact with listings in a more immersive way

Additionally, AI-driven platforms that help buyers and sellers find properties, calculate mortgage payments, and predict market trends will continue to gain popularity. As more buyers begin their home search online, sellers will need to ensure their homes are marketed digitally, using high-quality photos, videos, and virtual tools

For both buyers and sellers, embracing these technological tools can streamline the process and provide greater convenience and insight into the market

6. Focus on Urban Density and Transit-Oriented Development

While suburban and rural areas are seeing growth, BC’s urban centers aren’t being left behind. In fact, the trend toward more urban density and transit-oriented development (TOD) is expected to continue in 2025. As cities like Vancouver and Victoria become more walkable and bike-friendly, developers will focus on creating mixed-use communities that combine residential, commercial, and recreational spaces

Urban density projects, such as condos, townhomes, and apartment buildings near transit hubs, are expected to thrive in 2025. These developments offer a more sustainable lifestyle, reducing the need for long commutes and providing easy access to amenities and services. This trend aligns with the growing interest in living in more walkable communities that offer both convenience and an urban lifestyle

For sellers with properties near transit hubs or in developing neighborhoods, this could be a great opportunity to appeal to buyers looking for convenience and long-term value

7. Real Estate Investment Opportunities

Real estate continues to be a strong investment option, particularly in BC, where the housing market remains resilient despite global uncertainties. Investors are likely to focus on rental properties, particularly in areas with growing populations and demand for rental housing

Short-term rental opportunities, such as those listed on platforms like Airbnb, are also expected to remain popular in BC’s tourism-heavy regions. However, as municipalities continue to regulate short-term rentals, it will be important for investors to stay updated on local laws and zoning restrictions

For buyers looking to invest, BC still offers great potential in rental properties, especially in growing urban and suburban areas. For sellers, focusing on the investment potential of your property—whether through long-term rental income or short-term rental opportunities—can attract a broader range of buyers