August 2026 Real Estate Market Insights
Hosts Brittany Reimer and Alan He welcome Ashley Judd to The Pulse as a regular member of the team, filming from Westview Townhomes in Central Coquitlam. As summer winds down, July delivered a mixed market: presale supply remained limited but strategically priced releases generated stronger absorption, resale activity softened, and rental supply continued to build ahead of a busy August.
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Macroeconomic Conditions
The Bank of Canada held its policy rate at 2.25% for a sixth consecutive decision, while inflation eased and employment remained relatively stable. However, renewed trade uncertainty and a cautious national housing outlook continue to weigh on confidence. With borrowing costs holding steady through the remainder of summer, buyers and developers are watching closely for signs of renewed momentum heading into fall.
Presale Market Overview
July saw three projects launch just 42 townhomes across Greater Vancouver and the Fraser Valley. Despite the limited supply, same-month absorption reached 50%, well above the five-year July average of 29%. The result was largely driven by smaller releases and strategic pricing, particularly on Burke Mountain, where competitively priced product generated strong early activity. August is expected to be quieter, with only one project and 10 homes forecast to launch as developers continue to take a measured approach to new supply.
Resale Market Overview
Resale activity softened in July, with sales declining 13.8% month-over-month in Greater Vancouver and 5.1% in the Fraser Valley. Active listings also edged lower, but inventory remains well above ten-year seasonal averages, giving buyers plenty of choice. Benchmark prices continued their gradual adjustment, sitting approximately 6% below last year in Greater Vancouver and just over 7% lower in the Fraser Valley.
Rental Market Overview
Four purpose-built rental projects completed in July, adding 452 homes, with same-month lease-up reaching 6%. August is forecast to bring approximately 864 additional rental homes across four projects, making it the largest delivery month of the year by unit count. Despite growing supply, average asking rents have remained relatively stable, while increased competition continues to give renters more choice and access to incentives.
Projects mentioned in this episode:
• Westview Townhomes – Trillium
Links mentioned in this episode:
• The Pulse Report - August 2026
• MLA Advisory Services and Sample Reports
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