MARIE TAVERNA & KIM TAVERNA

TAVERNA REAL ESTATE GROUP

Direct : 604-802-7759   

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302-932 Robinson Street Coquitlam BC

Welcome to “The Shaughnessy” in West Coquitlam. This top floor condo unit has two bedrooms & two baths. You will be impressed with the 15+ feet vaulted ceiling in the living room & wood burning fireplace. The living room & dining room are perfect spot for entertaining friends. Cute kitchen with Stainless Steel fridge & stove. Good size primary bedroom with walkthrough closet to in suite laundry. The four-piece bath & a two-piece bath flow together. Easy care tile floors thought most of unit. In suite storage or reno to a cute little office. Second bedroom or den. Enjoy many hours in the summer on your balcony among the tall trees. Centrally located to transit and shopping. The SkyTrain is a short stroll away. Flat walking neighbourhood. One underground parking spot. OPEN HOUSES SATURDAY FEBRUARY 15th & SUNDAY FEBRUARY 16th from 2:00-4:00pm. See you there!

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Fraser Valley’s decade-high inventory could open doors for buyers

SURREY, BC – Growing inventory and stable prices could lead to opportunities for buyers in the Fraser Valley market this winter despite uncertain economic conditions.

Newly listed homes jumped 167 per cent from December to January, with 3,432 listed on the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board’s Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®). At 7,251 active listings, inventory is at a 10-year seasonal high, 54 per cent above the 10-year average.

While sales remained slow in January, with 818 properties sold (down 18% from December), the combination of stable prices and abundant selection presents potential opportunities for buyers to get back into the market.

The sales-to-active listings ratio appears to bear this out. At 11 per cent, the overall ratio is signaling a buyer’s market, with detached homes firmly in buyer’s market territory. The market is considered to be balanced when the ratio is between 12 per cent and 20 per cent.

It took longer to sell homes in January compared to December. Across the Fraser Valley, the average number of days to sell a single-family detached home was 52, while for a condo it was 42. Townhomes took, on average, 38 days to sell.

“The market appears to be in a holding pattern at the moment,” said Baldev Gill, CEO of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board. “There is no doubt that economic uncertainty is playing a role, especially the spectre of a trade war, which could lead to even more rate cuts by the Bank of Canada. The confluence of these conditions could provide unique buying opportunities, but we urge buyers and sellers to work with a REALTOR® to ensure they align with financial objectives.”

Benchmark prices in the Fraser Valley held relatively steady in January, with the composite Benchmark price down 0.03 per cent to $964,800.

To read the full statistics package, click here.

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Top paint colours of 2025

With the arrival of a new year comes fresh trends and design inspiration – you might already be feeling the urge to redecorate or dive into DIY projects for your home in the months ahead.

One of the easiest and most impactful ways to transform a room is through colour. A fresh coat of paint can instantly set the tone, adding warmth, energy, or a sense of calm, depending on your choice. So why not take inspiration from the most stylish hues of the year?

Whether you’re looking to give your home a contemporary edge or a timeless refresh, here are some of the must-have colours for 2025.

Pantone: Mocha Mousse (17-1230)

For those seeking to add a touch of richness to their walls, Pantone’s Mocha Mousse offers a luxurious, subtle brown shade. Described as indulgent and comforting, this earth tone pairs well with floral colours like sage green, dusty pink, and cornflower blue, or similar natural tan and nude hues. Its warm undertones create a cozy ambiance, making it an excellent choice for living rooms, bedrooms, and even home offices.

Behr: Rumors (MQ1-15)

This bold and deep ruby red by Behr is perfect for those looking to make a striking statement on their walls. Warm and rich, Rumors offers a dramatic yet inviting touch, effortlessly balancing vibrancy with sophistication. Its versatility allows it to be paired with both warm and cool tones, creating depth and contrast in any space. Rumors can be applied to ceilings, baseboards, and moldings for an unexpected yet stylish pop of colour.

Benjamin Moore: Cinnamon Slate (2113-40)

Heathery, dusty, and velvet-like, Cinnamon Slate by Benjamin Moore is a sophisticated fusion of earthy browns with subtle plum undertones. This rich, nuanced shade exudes warmth and comfort, making it a perfect choice for those looking to create a cozy yet refined atmosphere. Pairing nicely with warm browns, soft creams, and muted mauves, Cinnamon Slate is a calming addition to any living room, bedroom or dining room wall.

Valspar: Encore (8002-45G)

Valspar’s Encore is a crisp, cool shade that brings refreshing energy to any space. Under low lighting, its subtle violet undertones add depth, making it an ideal choice for a powder room, basement, or an accent wall. This versatile blue pairs beautifully with cream for softness, rich browns for warmth, or muted sage for a natural touch, creating a balanced and sophisticated colour palette.

Glidden: Purple Basil (1046-7)

Embracing the resurgence of maximalist design, Purple Basil by Glidden is a statement-making hue that exudes self-expression, richness, and confidence. Departing from traditional neutrals, this deep, sophisticated purple draws inspiration from retro colour palettes and striking pastels, bringing a sense of nostalgia with a modern twist. Purple Basil can be elevated with gold accents for an opulent feel, balanced with muted gray-greens and blues for a grounded aesthetic, or softened with creamy grays for a more understated elegance. 

Bonus: Sherwin-Williams: 2025 Colour Capsule

Why choose just one Colour of the Year when you can have nine? To mark the 15th anniversary of its first Colour of the Year announcement, Sherwin-Williams has unveiled a curated selection of its top shades for 2025. This dynamic palette – featuring Grounded, Sunbleached, Chartreuse, Bosc Bear, White Snow, Rain Cloud, Clove, Malabar, and Mauve Finery – offers endless possibilities for mixing and matching, allowing homeowners and designers to create beautifully layered, personalized spaces.

Contributor

Michelle McNally

Communications manager, Royal LePage

Michelle is a member of Royal LePage’s Communications and Public Relations team, and works to deliver unique and insightful Canadian real estate content to media and consumers. Prior to joining Royal LePage, Michelle was an online reporter specializing in Canadian real estate and pre-construction development. She is a graduate of Toronto Metropolitan University’s esteemed journalism program.

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Home sellers off to an active start in 2025

Homes newly listed on the MLS® in Metro Vancouver* rose 46 per cent year-over-year in January, as sellers appear eager to enter the market to start the year.

Sales

The Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR) reports that residential sales in the region totalled 1,552 in January 2025, an 8.8 per cent increase from the 1,427 sales recorded in January 2024. This was 11.3 per cent below the 10-year seasonal average (1,749).

"In the three months preceding January, we’ve watched buyer demand gain momentum, but it appears that momentum is now shifting toward sellers to start the new year. Even with this increase in new listing activity, sales continue to outpace last years’ figures, signaling some buyer appetite remains after the upswing that finished off 2024."Andrew Lis, GVR director of economics and data analytics

Listings

There were 5,566 detached, attached and apartment properties newly listed for sale on the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in Metro Vancouver in January 2025. This represents a 46.9 per cent increase compared to the 3,788 properties listed in January 2024. This was 31.1 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average (4,247).

The total number of properties currently listed for sale on the MLS® system in Metro Vancouver is 11,494, a 33.1 per cent increase compared to January 2024 (8,633). This is 33.2 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average (8,632).

Sales-to-active listings ratio

Across all detached, attached and apartment property types, the sales-to-active listings ratio for January 2025 is 14.1 per cent. By property type, the ratio is 9.2 per cent for detached homes, 18.5 per cent for attached, and 16.5 per cent for apartments.

Analysis of the historical data suggests downward pressure on home prices occurs when the ratio dips below 12 per cent for a sustained period, while home prices often experience upward pressure when it surpasses 20 per cent over several months.

“With new listings outpacing demand to start 2025, price trends saw little fluctuation in January across all segments, with the market overall standing in balanced conditions,” Lis said.

“Our 2025 forecast calls for moderate price growth by the end of the year, but we have cautioned that shocks to the economy such as those currently threatening Canada via tariffs from the US could impact these estimates.

"Going forward, whether these tariffs actually come into force, the duration they remain in place, and the degree to which Canada retaliates will determine the impact to the housing market in our region in the months ahead, if any.”

MLS® HPI

The MLS® Home Price Index composite benchmark price for all residential properties in Metro Vancouver is currently $1,173,000. This represents a 0.5 per cent increase over January 2024 and a 0.1 per cent increase compared to December 2024.

Sales of detached homes in January 2025 reached 380, a 0.3 per cent increase from the 379 detached sales recorded in January 2024. The benchmark price for a detached home is $2,005,400. This represents a 3.1 per cent increase from January 2024 and a 0.4 per cent increase compared to December 2024.

Sales of apartment homes reached 846 in January 2025, a 13.4 per cent increase compared to the 746 sales in January 2024. The benchmark price of an apartment home is $748,100. This represents a 1.7 per cent decrease from January 2024 and a 0.2 per cent decrease compared to December 2024.

Attached home sales in January 2025 totalled 321, a 12.6 per cent increase compared to the 285 sales in January 2024. The benchmark price of a townhouse is $1,105,600. This represents a 2.7 per cent increase from January 2024 and a 0.8 per cent decrease compared to December 2024.

Download the January 2025 Housing Report

* Areas covered by Greater Vancouver REALTORS® include: Bowen Island, Burnaby, Coquitlam, Maple Ridge, New Westminster, North Vancouver, Pitt Meadows, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Richmond, South Delta, Squamish, Sunshine Coast, Vancouver, West Vancouver, and Whistler.

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SOLD 177-19451 Sutton Ave in Pitt Meadows

That was quick!

Welcome to Nature’s Walk in South Meadows. Lovely 3 bedroom and 2.5 baths turn-key townhome is perfect for a family or singles that want some space. The kitchen is equipped with high end appliances, including a gas range, stone counter tops and lots of cabinets for storage. Dining room & living room with electric fireplace flow together for entertaining. Powder room on main level. Easy care laminate & tile flooring. Forced air heat, air-conditioning plus water on demand. Primary bedroom has a vaulted ceiling with walk through closet to 4-piece ensuite. Two other bedrooms. 4-piece main bath. Stackable laundry up. Double tandem garage. Front fenced yard with artificial turf. Enjoy the fabulous Meadows Club with pool, jot tub, gym, children’s play area, games room, golf simulator and much more. Make a first date to view this beauty.

 

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NEW LISTING 940 SPENCE AVE COQUITLAM

Welcome to 940 Spence Avenue in West Coquitlam. Fabulous family home in a quiet neighbourhood. 4 bedroom, 2 bath home is perfect for a growing family. Warm & inviting living room with gas fireplace. Large family kitchen with lovely wood cabinets, lots of counter space & stainless-steel appliances. Large, covered sundeck for those summer parties.3 good size bedrooms up.The basement is awaiting your decorating ideas. Mostly fenced large backyard for the kids and Fido.Shed for garden storage. Back lane for future possibilities. Check with Coquitlam City Hall for future possible plans. Large garage for 1 car or 2 Fiat 500s tandem. Flat driveway for cars or more. Stroll to Miller Park, schools & transit. Make a date to view this home.

Offered for sale at $1,850,000

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NEW LISTING 111-5335 HASTINGS STREET BURNABY

The “TERRACES." CUTE 1 bed & den unit, perfect for a 1st time buyer or empty nester wanting to downsize,or anyone in between.From the moment you walk in you will love the nature light streaming in.Large living room with wood burning fireplace.Sliders to balcony facing south&enjoy view to Metro Town.Cozy kitchen with stain glass window.Dining room with retro light fixture.Good size primary bedroom with walk through closet to 4-piece bath. Bonus,den/office/guest bedroom/shoe closet, you decide!Laundry closet, just add washer&dryer.Also a shared laundry room in the building.Easy care flooring.1 parking spot.1 Locker on the same floor as unit. Transit, shopping & recreation close by. Great for students commuting to SFU or BCIT. Book a first date to view this condo.

Listed for sale at $524,900.00

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New listings at 10-year high in 2024, but affordability still the elephant in the room in Fraser Valley

SURREY, BC – Bank of Canada interest rate cuts that began mid-year were not enough to ease the affordability crisis for many home buyers in the Fraser Valley in 2024, leading to a decline in annual sales.

The Fraser Valley Real Estate Board reported new listings of 35,698 for the year ended December 31, 2024, a 10-year high and nine per cent above the 10-year average. However, annual sales recorded on the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) were the lowest seen in ten years at 14,570, a decline of one per cent over 2023 and 24 per cent below the 10-year average. The City of Surrey accounted for the majority of 2024 sales at 51 per cent, with Langley and Abbotsford accounting for 24 per cent and 15 per cent respectively.

“2024 marked another subdued year for Fraser Valley home sales on the heels of a ten-year low in 2023,” said Jeff Chadha, Chair of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board. “Slight declines in home prices across some areas of the region provided negligible relief for buyers looking to get into the market. At the same time, the modest price adjustments did not discourage sellers from listing.”

The composite Benchmark home price in the Fraser Valley closed the year at $965,000, down two per cent year-over-year, and down four per cent from its 2024 peak in March.

December 2024

The Board recorded 994 sales on its MLS® in December, a decline of 13 per cent from November, but 19 per cent above sales from December 2023.

New listings declined 46 per cent from November to December, from 2,367 to 1,288, contributing to a 23 per cent decline in overall inventory in December. With a sales-to-active listings ratio of 16 per cent in December, the overall market closed out the year in balance. The market is considered balanced when the ratio is between 12 per cent and 20 per cent.

“While the Fraser Valley saw overall balanced market conditions for most of 2024, the low levels of buying and selling activity reflected a challenging year for many as would-be buyers waited for affordability to improve,” said Baldev Gill, CEO of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board. “Interest rate cuts by the Bank of Canada along with recent government policies aimed at boosting overall housing supply and improving affordability, should help to increase market conditions in 2025.”

It took longer to sell townhomes and condos in December compared to November. Townhomes spent 36 days on the market, up from 33 days in November, while condos spent 38 days on the market, up from 36 days in the previous month. Single-family homes spent 43 days on the market — no change from November.

The composite Benchmark home price in the Fraser Valley continued to slide for the ninth straight month, down 0.5 per cent compared to November.

To read the full statistics package, click here.

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Home sales register a strong finish to cap off 2024

Home sales registered on the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in Metro Vancouver rose over thirty per cent in December, compared to the previous year, signalling strengthening demand-side momentum to close out 2024. 


The Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR) reports that residential sales in the region totalled 26,561 in 2024, a 1.2 per cent increase from the 26,249 sales recorded in 2023, and a 9.2 per cent decrease from the 29,261 sales in 2022. 


Last year’s sales total was 20.9 per cent below the 10-year annual sales average (33,559).

 
“Looking back on 2024, it could best be described as a pivot year for the market after experiencing such dramatic increases in mortgage rates in the preceding years,” said Andrew Lis, GVR’s director of economics and data analytics. “With borrowing costs now firmly on the decline, buyers have started to show up in numbers after somewhat of a hiatus – and this renewed strength is now clearly visible in the more recent monthly data.” 


Properties listed on the MLS® system in Metro Vancouver totalled 60,388 in 2024. This represents an 18.7 per cent increase compared to the 50,894 properties listed in 2023. This was 9.7 per cent above the 55,047 properties listed in 2022. 


The total number of properties listed last year was 5.7 per cent above the region’s 10-year annual average (57,136). 


Currently, the total number of homes listed for sale on the MLS® system in Metro Vancouver is 10,948, a 24.4 per cent increase compared to December 2024 (8,802). This total is also 25.3 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average (8,737). 


The MLS® Home Price Index composite benchmark price for all residential properties in Metro Vancouver is currently $1,171,500. This represents a 0.5 per cent increase over December 2023 and a 0.1 per cent decrease compared to November 2024. 


“Disappointingly, sales came in shy of our forecasted target for the year, but the December figures signal an emerging pattern of strength in home sales, building on the momentum seen in previous months,” Lis said. “These more recent sales figures are now trending back towards long-term historical averages, which suggests there may still be quite a bit of potential upside for sales as we head into 2025, should the recent strength continue. 


“Although sales activity had a slower start to the year, price trends began 2024 on the rise and closed out the year on a flatter trajectory. Most market segments saw year-over-year increases of a few per cent except for apartment units, which ended 2024 roughly flat. With the data showing renewed strength to finish the year however, it looks as though the 2025 market is positioned to be considerably more active than we’ve seen in recent years.”  

December 2024 summary

Residential sales in the region totalled 1,765 in December 2024, a 31.2 per cent increase from the 1,345 sales recorded in December 2023. This was 14.9 per cent below the 10-year seasonal average (2,074) for the month. 


There were 1,676 detached, attached and apartment properties newly listed for sale on the MLS® system in Metro Vancouver in December 2024. This represents a 26.3 per cent increase compared to the 1,327 properties listed in December 2023. This was 1.1 per cent below the 10-year seasonal average (1,695). 


Across all detached, attached and apartment property types, the sales-to-active listings ratio for December 2024 is 16.8 per cent. By property type, the ratio is 12.1 per cent for detached homes, 23.6 per cent for attached, and 18.7 per cent for apartments. 


Analysis of the historical data suggests downward pressure on home prices occurs when the ratio dips below 12 per cent for a sustained period, while home prices often experience upward pressure when it surpasses 20 per cent over several months. 


Sales of detached homes in December 2024 reached 494, a 31.4 per cent increase from the 376 detached sales recorded in December 2023. The benchmark price for a detached home is $1,997,000. This represents a two per cent increase from December 2023 and is nearly unchanged compared to November 2024. 

 

Sales of apartment homes reached 891 in December 2024, a 23.9 per cent increase compared to the 719 sales in December 2023. The benchmark price of an apartment home is $749,900. This represents a 0.1 per cent decrease from December 2023 and a 0.4 per cent decrease compared to November 2024. 


Attached home sales in December 2024 totalled 371, a 55.9 per cent increase compared to the 238 sales in December 2023. The benchmark price of a townhouse is $1,114,600. This represents a 3.4 per cent increase from December 2023 and a 0.3 per cent decrease compared to November 2024.  

Download the 2024 year-end stats package

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New Listing 177-19451 Sutton Ave in Pitt Meadows

Listed for $899,900.00

Welcome to Nature’s Walk in South Meadows. Lovely 3 bedroom and 2.5 baths turn-key townhome is perfect for a family or singles that want some space. The kitchen is equipped with high end appliances, including a gas range, stone counter tops and lots of cabinets for storage. Dining room & living room with electric fireplace flow together for entertaining. Powder room on main level. Easy care laminate & tile flooring. Forced air heat, air-conditioning plus water on demand. Primary bedroom has a vaulted ceiling with walk through closet to 4-piece ensuite. Two other bedrooms. 4-piece main bath. Stackable laundry up. Double tandem garage. Front fenced yard with artificial turf. Enjoy the fabulous Meadows Club with pool, jot tub, gym, children’s play area, games room, golf simulator and much more. Make a first date to view this beauty.

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SOLD 107-19122 122nd Pitt Meadows BC

Welcome to Edgewood Manor.What a fabulous opportunity to move into this condo unit. Ground level home has 2bedrooms & 2 full four-piece baths. Large windows let the natural light in.Extra large outdoor patio, imagine entertaining when the warmer weather arrives.The living room has a gas fireplace with sliders to your patio. Dining room is perfect for family dinners.Large kitchen with eating area. The primary bedroom has sliders to patio as well. 2 closets in the walkway to the ensuite. In suite laundry. In suite storage/pantry could be re-design for a cute home office. Two underground side by side parking spots and storage locker for your seasonal items. Priced more than $70,000 under BC Assessment. Book a first date to view this ground level condo.

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Canadian housing market maintains growth in November as sales and prices continue to rise

Canada’s housing market continued its upward trend in November 2024, as it recorded gains in both sales activity and prices, according to the latest report from the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA). This marks the sixth consecutive month of sales growth, further solidifying the market’s recovery since mid-year when the first cut to the overnight lending rate was made.

Key urban centers such as the Greater Toronto Area, Greater Vancouver, Calgary, and Montreal all saw increased activity, with notable gains also recorded in several smaller cities across Alberta and Ontario.

Sales growth persists

Home sales in November 2024 increased by 2.8% compared to October. Since May 2024 – just before the first interest rate cut in June – sales have risen by a cumulative 18.4%. This sustained growth reflects stronger buyer demand across the country.

“Not only were sales up again, but with market conditions now starting to tighten up, November also saw prices move materially higher at the national level for the first time in almost a year and a half,” said Shaun Cathcart, CREA’s Senior Economist. “Normally we might expect this market rebound to take a pause before resuming in the spring; however, the Bank of Canada’s latest 50-basis point cut together with a loosening of mortgage rules could mean a more active winter market than normal.”

Home prices show largest monthly increase since July

The National Composite MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) rose 0.6% from October to November, marking the largest month-over-month increase since July 2024. While prices had been relatively stable for much of the year, the November increase suggests renewed upward pressure on home values.

The non-seasonally adjusted National Composite MLS® HPI stood 1.2% below November 2023, the smallest decline since last April.
Meanwhile, the actual – not seasonally adjusted – national average home price for November 2024 was $694,411, up 7.4% from November 2023.

Fewer listings available

The total number of homes for sale declined in November. There were a little more than 160,000 properties listed on Canadian MLS® Systems at the end of the month, representing an 8.9% increase from the same period last year. However, this total remains below the long-term average of 178,000 listings for this time of year.

National inventory levels continued to shrink last month, making conditions more competitive for buyers. There were 3.7 months of inventory on a national basis at the end of November, down from 3.8 months in October. This marks the lowest inventory level in 14 months.

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Bank of Canada drops overnight lending rate to 3.25% in final announcement of 2024

This marks the second consecutive 50-basis-point cut to the overnight rate this year

In its last announcement of the year, the Bank of Canada made another supersized cut to its key lending rate.

In its scheduled December 2024 release, the central bank announced that it had lowered the target for the overnight lending rate by 50 basis points to reach 3.25%. This marks the fifth consecutive cut to rates in 2024, and the second consecutive 50-basis-point cut.

In October, Canada’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) increased 2.0% on a year-over-year basis, up from a 1.6% increase in September. Despite this increase, current levels continue to meet the Bank’s 2% inflation target. Weaker-than-expected GDP growth, in addition to reduced immigration levels and the possibility of new trade tariffs with the United States, justified the Bank’s decision to lower rates again in order to stimulate the economy while keeping inflation under control.

“With inflation back to target, we have cut the policy rate by 50 basis points at each of the last two decisions because monetary policy no longer needs to be clearly in restrictive territory. We want to see growth pick up to absorb the unused capacity in the economy and keep inflation close to 2%,” said Tiff Macklem, Governor of the Bank of Canada, in a press conference with reporters following the announcement. “The Governing Council has reduced the policy rate substantially since June, and those cuts will be working their way through the economy. Going forward, we will be evaluating the need for further reductions in the policy rate one decision at a time.”


 

Another rate cut increases likelihood of early spring market

With lower borrowing rates comes the likelihood of more robust activity throughout the winter months and an earlier-than-normal spring market, leading to upward pressure on home prices. 

According to the Royal LePage 2025 Market Survey Forecast, the aggregate1 price of a home in Canada is set to increase 6.0% year over year to $856,692 in the fourth quarter of 2025, with the median price of a single-family detached property and condominium projected to increase 7.0% and 3.5% to $900,833 and $605,993, respectively.2 Sidelined buyers are being encouraged back to the market following several rate cuts by the central bank and the optimism of more to come. Coupled with the implementation of new mortgage policies — including the increased insurance cap and 30-year amortizations for first-time buyers and pre-construction buyers — lower rates are expected to spur activity heading into the spring. 

“Starting in late spring 2024, we have seen the Bank of Canada continue to lower the cost of borrowing, a process that has prompted homebuyer demand to steadily rise, with a sharp uptick in activity following their first 50-point cut in October. This latest significant rate cut will help to sustain activity throughout the winter months, typically the slowest period for real estate transactions in Canada,” said Phil Soper, president and CEO of Royal LePage. “Buyers have woken up to the reality that property prices are rising again, and more will feel an urgency to act before affordability erodes. As a result, we are anticipating a ‘pull-ahead’ of activity and an early start to the traditional spring housing market. Adding to this momentum is the change in lending policies that come into effect on December 15th, which we believe will coax more sidelined purchasers to take advantage of their expanded borrowing power.”

  

Many sidelined homebuyers have been waiting for rates to drop significantly before reentering the market. With another cut now in the books, many will feel that interest rates have dropped enough for them to revisit their home purchase plans. According to a Royal LePage survey, conducted by Leger, 51% of Canadians who put their home buying plans on hold the last two years said they would return to the market when the Bank of Canada reduced its key lending rate. Eighteen percent said they would wait for a cut of 50 to 100 basis points, and 23% said they’d need to see a cut of more than 100 basis points before considering resuming their search.

The Bank of Canada will make its next interest rate announcement on Wednesday, January 29th, 2025.

Read the full December 11th report here.


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2024 holiday décor trends: A fresh take on festive magic

The crisp fall air signals to us that winter is on its way, and with that, the familiar cozy nights, twinkling lights, and joy of decorating for the holiday season.

For many, this time of year is a cherished opportunity to transform their homes into a winter wonderland. Whether you love the nostalgia of decking the halls with traditional red-and-green ornaments and tinsel, or prefer a more modern take on festive décor, it seems all options are on the table this holiday season.

Here are the top four 2024 holiday décor trends to spark inspiration for your celebrations:

1. Muted luxe

This year, the classic holiday palette of red, green, and gold is replaced by softer tones, such as sage green, champagne, dusty rose, and icy blue. These muted hues, paired with metallic accents like brushed gold or antique silver, create a more refined and calming look for your home.

Think velvet stockings, metallic-dusted wreaths and pale ornaments to bring an elevated vibe to your space. To add contrast, consider incorporating darker tones such as deep navy or charcoal. This trend offers an effortlessly elegant way to make your space festive without feeling overly bold.

2. Vintage nostalgia

Does merrily muted sound mundane to you? Then this might be the style you’re looking for.

Vintage-inspired décor is back in a big way. Crystal and glass ornaments, retro tinsel garlands, ceramic Christmas trees and vintage menorahs provoke a sense of nostalgia that warms the heart and the home.

You can find authentic heirloom pieces by exploring thrift shops, flea markets, or asking older family members for cherished treasures. For those who love the look but prefer something new, many retailers acknowledge that traditional holiday style is back in full swing, and now offer vintage-inspired holiday décor.

Pair these pieces with candles or warm string lights to create a timeless, cozy atmosphere that makes any house feel like home.

3. Natural elegance

As sustainability takes centre stage in many facets of our lives, nature-inspired holiday décor is no exception. Evergreen garlands adorned with dried orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and pinecones create a rustic and festive look – and they smell great, too!

When decorating the tree, consider swapping out plastic bobbles for dried fruits, a popcorn garland or ornaments made of natural materials, like wood or paper. Continue this theme throughout the home by dressing up your dining table with linen napkins, fresh greenery, and seasonal fruit displayed as the centrepiece. This trend is perfect for those who want their eco-conscious lifestyle to be reflected in their holiday decorations.

4. Textured layers

Styling the home with layered textures continues from fall into winter, creating comfy and cozy holiday vibes.

Blend soft, chunky knits with plush velvets, faux furs, and natural materials like woven cotton or linen. This approach adds depth and dimension to any room, making your home feel as inviting as your favourite holiday sweater – but don’t stop there!

Take texture to another level by adding ribbon, felt ornaments, or macramé to your home. For your tablescape, mix and match materials by pairing a cotton tablecloth with rattan placemats, or layering linens with soft runners in contrasting patterns. Add natural elements like greenery, flowers, or seasonal foliage. In living spaces such as the sitting room or bedroom, drape blankets and throw pillows in seasonal hues and incorporate textures like glass, wood, and metal to create a cozy and inviting environment throughout your home.

Bonus tip: Extend the cheer outdoors

Your outdoor holiday décor doesn’t have to stop at stringing lights along the rooftop! Add twinkle-lights, lanterns, and weather-resistant greenery along banisters and around door and window frames to bring the spirit of the holiday season to the outdoors. A welcoming porch or patio can make your home feel festive inside and out.

This holiday season, embrace the opportunity to create traditions and have your home reflect your personal style. Whether you prefer the understated elegance of muted tones, the timeless charm of vintage décor, or the natural beauty of sustainable elements, there’s a trend to suit every taste. With a little creativity, your home can shine as a joyful centerpiece for the season, ready to make lasting memories.

Contributor

Michelle McNally

Communications manager, Royal LePage

Michelle is a member of Royal LePage’s Communications and Public Relations team, and works to deliver unique and insightful Canadian real estate content to media and consumers. Prior to joining Royal LePage, Michelle was an online reporter specializing in Canadian real estate and pre-construction development. She is a graduate of Toronto Metropolitan University’s esteemed journalism program.

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Home price growth to return to long-term norms in 2025, ending era of market unpredictability

National aggregate home price forecast to increase 6.0% year over year in Q4 of 2025

For the last few years, the Canadian housing market has experienced trends far outside the norm. A global pandemic, rapidly rising interest rates and economic disruptions threw the real estate market off course for a time, but 2025 is expected to bring conditions back in line with long-term historical averages.

According to the Royal LePage Market Survey Forecast, the aggregate1 price of a home in Canada is set to increase 6.0% year over year to $856,692 in the fourth quarter of 2025, with the median price of a single-family detached property and condominium projected to increase 7.0% and 3.5% to $900,833 and $605,993, respectively.2

“After several years of unusual volatility in the real estate market, key indicators point to a return to stability in 2025. The backlog of willing and able buyers continues to grow, and upcoming changes to mortgage lending rules will further enhance Canadians’ borrowing power,” said Phil Soper, president and chief executive officer, Royal LePage. “Most notably, the Bank of Canada’s shift from ‘inflation fighter’ to ‘economy booster’ has taken time to influence buyer behaviour. We saw a marked increase in market activity at the start of the fourth quarter, following the Bank of Canada’s 50-basis-point rate cut. Buyers now believe home prices have hit bottom and are eager to act before competition intensifies.”

New lending rules to boost buyer borrowing capacity

A series of new lending regulations are set to take effect this month, offering greater accessibility to both first-time buyers and current homeowners. As of December 15th, eligibility for 30-year amortizations on insured mortgages will be expanded to all first-time homebuyers and to all purchasers of new construction properties, up from the current 25-year threshold.3 In addition, the mortgage insurance cap will increase from $1 million to $1.5 million, allowing buyers with a down payment of less than 20 per cent the opportunity to explore housing options at a higher price point. This will be especially impactful for homebuyer hopefuls in the country’s priciest real estate markets, where average property values often exceed $1 million.

“Improved lending conditions, combined with declining interest rates, will unlock new housing opportunities for many Canadians in the new year. First-time buyers will be the primary beneficiaries of these initiatives, as their ability to borrow more for less with a smaller down payment will help bring them closer to their first home purchase,” said Soper. “We believe the return of buyers to the market will encourage builders and trigger a wave of new supply, which is very much needed.

“Addressing Canada’s critical housing shortage must remain a top priority for policymakers at every level of government. With our population growing rapidly through both natural increases and immigration, it is essential to stay focused on supporting the development of new homes if we hope to address housing affordability, be it for purchase or rent.”

Changing political landscapes create potential impact for housing

2025 will bring a change in government south of the border, and potentially in Canada’s House of Commons. New leadership, in addition to evolving trade relations, immigration policies and global conflict, could meaningfully alter the state of the Canadian housing market.

“With an election approaching in Ottawa and a new administration preparing to take office in Washington, the housing market faces potential disruptions. Here at home, a federal election will see new housing policies that may temporarily impact market activity in the second half of 2025,” said Soper. “Meanwhile, south of the border, the incoming Trump administration’s trade policies and broader economic agenda have the potential to create ripple effects for Canada’s economy and housing market. While these impacts may take time to unfold, they could eventually affect consumer confidence and market dynamics on both sides of the border.”

Read Royal LePage’s 2025 Market Survey Forecast for national and regional insights.

Highlights from the release:

  • Greater Montreal Area aggregate home price appreciation (6.5%) expected to outpace greater regions of Toronto (5.0%) and Vancouver (4.0%) next year.

  • Quebec City is forecast to see the highest gains among all major regions in 2025, with the aggregate home price expected to rise 11.0%, followed by Edmonton and Regina at 9.0%.

  • Calgary, which saw unprecedented price appreciation and sustained activity over the last two years, is forecast to see home prices increase a moderate 4.0%, along with Ottawa, Halifax and Winnipeg.

  • Median price of a condominium in the Greater Toronto Area expected to decline modestly by 1.0%, with thousands of new units to be added to the current surplus of supply.

NATIONAL PRESS RELEASE

FORECAST CHART


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Greater Vancouver Real Estate Sees Continued Growth Amid Seasonal Trends

https://ebook.royallepagecorporate.ca/link/906540/

Home sales across Greater Vancouver continued to rise in November, demonstrating

strong demand across all property types. A total of 2,181 homes were put under

contract, marking a 28 per cent year-over-year increase and building on October’s

impressive 37 per cent annual growth. Aggregate sale prices across the region rose by

2 per cent to an average sales price of $1,277,653, largely driven by an uptick in

detached home prices.

While inventory dipped month-over-month to 12,830, reflecting seasonal trends typical

of winter, year-over-year inventory levels were up 18 per cent, offering more options for

buyers compared to the same time last year.

As sales activity continued to grow, we are also seeing increased interest from

American buyers. Recent website data suggests that the results of the 2024 U.S.

presidential election have prompted some Americans to explore relocating north of the

border.

Traffic data from royallepage.ca—Royal LePage’s consumer real estate portal and

Canada’s most-visited real estate company website—recorded a sharp increase in U.S.-

originated sessions the day after the election.

"Consistently ranked as one of the best countries in the world to live in, Canada

continues to be a top destination for international relocation—a trend that is unlikely to

change in the years ahead," said Phil Soper, president and CEO of Royal LePage.

Detached homes led the market with a notable monthly price increase of $95,384,

bringing the average sales price to $2,158,469—a 4.6 per cent rise. Detached home

sales totalled 630, representing a 20 per cent monthly increase. Inventory dropped to

5,096, reflecting an 8 per cent decrease from October but a 21 per cent increase year

over-year.

The condo market saw a slight monthly price decrease of $27,657, resulting in an

average sales price of $784,635. However, sales remained robust with 1,095 units sold

—a 28 per cent year-over-year increase—while inventory also rose by 28 per cent to

5,785 units, maintaining a balanced market.

Townhomes posted the highest yearly increase in sales volume, with 364 units sold—a

remarkable 37 per cent year-over-year growth. Prices remained stable compared to the

previous month, with the average sale price sitting at $1,147,448. Inventory levels

remained elevated, with 1,419 townhomes available, marking a 28 per cent year-over

year increase.

“Although demand has increased as we head into year-end, the number of newly listed

properties coming to market in November remained sufficient to keep prices steady

across all segments,” Andrew Lis, GVR’s director of economics and data analytics said.

“But as we move into the New Year, if the strength in demand continues at the current

pace, and the pace of newly listed properties coming to market doesn’t keep up, it may

not be long until we see the return of upward pressure on prices.”

The Greater Vancouver real estate market continues to exhibit resilience and steady

growth, buoyed by strong demand, increased inventory, and growing interest from

international buyers. As we approach the end of the year, the region remains one of the

most dynamic and sought-after real estate markets in the country.

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Fraser Valley home sales returning to seasonal norms in November after October surge

URREY, BC – Following a healthy boost in sales in October, Fraser Valley home sales dropped in November as slower seasonal buying trends set in amid balanced market conditions.

The Fraser Valley Real Estate Board recorded 1,136 sales in November, down 15 per cent from October, but 28 per cent above November 2023 sales.

“Buying and selling activity is typically quiet at this time of year,” said Jeff Chadha, Chair of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board. “But it’s worth noting that November 2024 sales are higher than they’ve been compared to the past two Novembers — a sign that overall activity is picking up in the Fraser Valley and with it, growing buyer confidence.”

A decline in new listings chipped away at overall inventory in November, with active listings declining eight per cent to 8,125. Overall inventory, however, remains at a 10-year seasonal high and 30 per cent above November 2023 levels. New listings dropped 26 per cent in November to 2,367, but remain above the 10-year seasonal average and above levels from November 2023. The Fraser Valley remains in a balanced market with a sales-to-active ratio of 14 per cent. The market is considered to be balanced when the ratio is between 12 per cent and 20 per cent.

“With seasonality expected to slow sales activity towards year-end, we are optimistic that the new mortgage lending guidelines, which come into effect on December 15, will slowly start to work their way into the market,” said Baldev Gill, CEO of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board. “Longer amortization periods and lower minimum down payments should help more buyers who want to get into the market in 2025.”

Across the Fraser Valley in November, the average number of days to sell a single-family detached home was 43, while for a condo it was 36. Townhomes took, on average, 33 days to sell.

Benchmark prices in the Fraser Valley dipped for the eighth straight month in November, with the composite Benchmark price down 0.2 per cent to $969,500.

To read the full statistics package, click here.

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Sold 1948 Eastern Drive Port Coquitlam  was listed for $1,329,000.00

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Home buyer demand continues to strengthen in November

Home sales registered in the MLS® in the Metro Vancouver market rose 28 percent year-over-year in November, building on the momentum of the 30 percent year-over-year increase seen in October. 


The Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR) reports that residential sales in the region totalled 2,181 in November 2024, a 28.1 per cent increase from the 1,702 sales recorded in November 2023. This was 12.8 per cent below the 10-year seasonal average (2,500). 


“When we saw demand pick up in October, there was still a question over whether it was a blip in the data or the start of an emerging trend,” Andrew Lis, GVR’s director of economics and data analytics said. “While the November market isn’t quite a Cyber Monday door-crasher, buyers are continuing to take advantage of the relatively balanced market conditions while they last.” 


There were 3,725 detached, attached and apartment properties newly listed for sale on the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in Metro Vancouver in November 2024. This represents a 10.6 per cent increase compared to the 3,369 properties listed in November 2023. This was 5.4 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average (3,535). 


The total number of properties currently listed for sale on the MLS® system in Metro Vancouver is 13,245, a 21.2 per cent increase compared to November 2023 (10,931). This is 26.1 per cent above the 10-year seasonal average (10,502). 


Across all detached, attached and apartment property types, the sales-to-active listings ratio for November 2024 is 17.1 per cent. By property type, the ratio is 12.7 per cent for detached homes, 23.1 per cent for attached, and 18.7 per cent for apartments. 


Analysis of the historical data suggests downward pressure on home prices occurs when the ratio dips below 12 per cent for a sustained period, while home prices often experience upward pressure when it surpasses 20 per cent over several months. 


“Although demand has increased as we head into year-end, the number of newly listed properties coming to market in November remained sufficient to keep prices steady across all segments,” Lis said. “But as we move into the New Year, if the strength in demand continues at the current pace, and the pace of newly listed properties coming to market doesn’t keep up, it may not be long until we see the return of upward pressure on prices.” 


The MLS® Home Price Index composite benchmark price for all residential properties in Metro Vancouver is currently $1,172,100. This represents a 0.9 per cent decrease over November 2023 and nearly unchanged compared to October 2024. 


Sales of detached homes in November 2024 reached 626, a 19.7 per cent increase from the 523 detached sales recorded in November 2023. The benchmark price for a detached home is $1,997,400. This represents a one per cent increase from November 2023 and a 0.3 per cent decrease compared to October 2024. 


Sales of apartment homes reached 1,089 in November 2024, a 28.1 per cent increase compared to the 850 sales in November 2023. The benchmark price of an apartment home is $752,800. This represents a 1.2 per cent decrease from November 2023 and a 0.6 per cent decrease compared to October 2024. 


Attached home sales in November 2024 totalled 451, a 42.7 per cent increase compared to the 316 sales in November 2023. The benchmark price of a townhouse is $1,117,600. This represents a 1.8 per cent increase from November 2023 and a 0.8 per cent increase compared to October 2024.

Download the November 2024 stats package

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Reciprocity Logo The data relating to real estate on this website comes in part from the MLS® Reciprocity program of either the Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR), the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board (FVREB) or the Chilliwack and District Real Estate Board (CADREB). Real estate listings held by participating real estate firms are marked with the MLS® logo and detailed information about the listing includes the name of the listing agent. This representation is based in whole or part on data generated by either the GVR, the FVREB or the CADREB which assumes no responsibility for its accuracy. The materials contained on this page may not be reproduced without the express written consent of either the GVR, the FVREB or the CADREB.