If you’re thinking about getting into the Vancouver presale market, you’re in a unique window of opportunity that most buyers will regret missing in the next two to three years. I’m not saying to go out and buy a presale condo if you don’t need one, but if you’re a first-time homebuyer or investor, you need to look past the doom-and-gloom headlines.

As someone deeply embedded in the industry, I’ve handled hundreds of units over the last few years, and I can confidently say that while 80% of projects are overpriced, the remaining 20% are from developers desperate to secure financing and building permits. These projects are where the real opportunities lie.

Three Key Metrics to Consider Before Buying a Vancouver Presale

1. Price Point

The current market correction was inevitable. Between Fall 2021 and Spring 2022, prices skyrocketed by 30% in just six months due to FOMO-driven buying. Now, with the market stabilizing, you need to focus on fair market value.

Here’s the simple way to analyze it:

• If a resale condo is selling for $900 per square foot, can you secure a presale at the same price or lower?

• If yes, it’s a no-brainer. You get a brand-new unit with three years of construction time for market appreciation.

• Even if the market doesn’t appreciate, you still have a newer property at the same cost as resale.

Smart investors don’t chase hype. They look for projects where developers must sell, offering discounts below current resale values. For example, in Langley, you can now get brand-new townhomes at the same price as older resale units.

2. Inventory Levels

Inventory is high right now because all the projects that sold out in 2021–2022 are now completing. This cycle repeats every four to five years. Here’s what happens next:

• 2024–2025: High inventory means opportunities for buyers.

• 2026–2027: Inventory shrinks, prices begin rising again.

• 2028–2029: Low supply and high demand push prices up significantly.

Most projects completing now are from the 2021–2022 buying frenzy. However, very few new projects are launching with 2028–2029 completions. That’s why investors buying today will be in the best position in four years.

3. Completion Timelines

The longer the completion timeline, the better it is for investors. Why?

• You secure today’s prices with only a deposit.

• No mortgage payments during construction.

• You give the market time to appreciate before taking possession.

For investors, the ideal completion window is Fall 2027 to 2028. There’s minimal supply expected then, meaning higher demand and increased prices. Even if the project is delayed, that’s usually a good thing—it extends your investment timeline without carrying costs.

The Best Time to Buy Is Now

Vancouver presale condos are often misunderstood because many buyers purchase the wrong projects. The top 20% of presales make the money, while the overpriced 80% don’t. If you’re looking to invest, focus on value—not speculation.

My personal strategy? I’m locking in units with 2027–2028 completions, giving myself a buffer to manage my portfolio. If you’re serious about securing a solid presale investment, now is the time to act.

If you want expert guidance in choosing the right presale project, feel free to book a call with me. Let’s make sure you don’t look back in 2027 wishing you had bought today.