10 Questions People Ask About Presale Condos in Vancouver (Answered by a Presale Expert)

First-time presale buyers in Vancouver have dozens of questions. "Is this a good investment? How much do I need to put down? Can I assign the contract?" As someone who's guided over 300 buyers through presale transactions, I hear these questions constantly. Here are the top 10 presale questions—answered by someone who actually does this every day. Top 10 Presale Condo Questions Answered 1. What's the difference between presale and resale condos? Presale: You buy directly from the developer before or during construction. Prices are lower, but you wait 2-4 years for completion. Resale: You buy from the current owner after completion. You move in immediately but pay a premium. Expert tip: Presales offer better long-term value if you can wait for completion. 2. How much do I need to put down on a presale? Typical deposits range from 5-20%, paid in stages during construction: 5% at signing 5% at start of construction 5-10% as construction progresses Expert tip: Negotiate lower deposits. Savvy realtors can get developers to reduce this significantly. 3. Should I buy presale for investment or personal use? Presales work for both: Investment: Buy, wait for completion, rent it out for strong cash flow Personal: Buy, move in at completion, enjoy your new home Assignment: Buy at presale price, assign contract before completion for quick profit Expert tip: The best strategy depends on your timeline and financial goals. 4. Can I assign my presale contract? Yes—most developers allow contract assignments. This is how investors flip presales for profit without ever owning the property. You sell your contract to another buyer at a higher price before completion. Expert tip: Assignment rules vary by developer. Your realtor should understand them. 5. What if the developer goes bankrupt? Rare but possible. Your real estate lawyer should verify: Developer financial health Deposit protection through holdback provisions Insurance requirements Expert tip: Established developers have better track records. Do your research. 6. How long until completion? Typical Vancouver presales: 2-4 years from purchase to occupancy. Your realtor should help you understand timelines and how financing works during the construction period. Expert tip: Ask about construction delays in the contract. Some projects run over schedule. 7. Will my presale appreciate before completion? Often yes. As construction progresses and market conditions improve, presale values typically…

This article is part of the PresaleProperties.com BC real estate guide library. It is intended for buyers comparing presale condos, townhomes, assignments, deposits, completion timelines, neighbourhoods and developer incentives across Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley.

Because presale information changes quickly, readers should verify current project pricing, floor plans, incentives and availability before signing contracts or submitting deposits. For direct help, call 672 258-1100 or request VIP access on the relevant project page.