What is a presale condo in BC?
A presale (pre-construction) condo is a home you buy from a developer before it is built, typically at today's price with a staged deposit, and you take possession when construction completes — often 1–4 years later.
BC Presale Buyers Guide
Buying a presale condo or townhome in British Columbia starts with budget, location and timing. A buyer should confirm mortgage comfort, expected deposit cash, preferred completion year and whether the home is for personal use or investment. Presale purchases are different from resale purchases because the buyer commits before construction is complete and relies on the developer disclosure package, floor plans, contract terms and projected completion schedule.
A typical buyer journey includes VIP registration, project comparison, floor plan selection, worksheet submission, contract signing, rescission review, staged deposits, construction updates, pre-delivery inspection and completion. Deposits are usually paid in stages and commonly average 5–15% across current BC presale projects. Buyers should verify whether assignments are allowed, whether rentals are restricted and whether any incentives affect the final net price.
The safest way to use a buyers guide is to combine education with live project verification. Prices, incentives, unit availability and deposit schedules can change without notice. Before committing, request the latest documents, compare comparable projects and speak with a local presale specialist who understands the neighbourhood and developer track record.
Common BC presale questions
How much deposit do I need for a presale in BC?
Deposits are staged and typically total 5%–20% of the purchase price, paid in instalments tied to milestones (e.g., on signing, then at set intervals). The exact structure varies by project and developer.
Do buyers pay commission on a presale?
No. With The Presale Properties Group, buyers pay $0 — the developer pays the buyer-agent commission. Using a buyer-side agent does not increase your price.
Is there GST on presale condos in BC?
Yes. New-construction homes in BC are subject to 5% GST. A partial GST rebate may apply for owner-occupiers depending on the price; investors are treated differently. Confirm specifics for your situation.
Are presale deposits protected in BC?
Under BC's Real Estate Development Marketing Act (REDMA), presale deposits are generally held in trust. Protections and conditions depend on the contract and developer.
What is an assignment sale?
An assignment is the sale of a presale contract to a new buyer before the building completes. Assignment is only allowed if the original developer contract permits it, and tax (including GST on the assignment) can apply.
Why use a buyer-side presale specialist instead of going to the developer's sales centre?
The developer's sales staff represent the developer's interests. A buyer-side specialist represents only you — comparing projects, negotiating incentives, reviewing contracts and disclosure statements, and accessing VIP pricing — at no cost to you.
Who runs The Presale Properties Group?
Uzair Muhammad, a Surrey-based REALTOR (Real Broker) who spent 10 years at the City of Surrey before real estate. The team has helped 450+ buyers and holds a 5.0 Google rating.
What cities does The Presale Properties Group serve?
We help buyers across Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley — Surrey, Langley, Abbotsford, Coquitlam, Delta, Burnaby South, Vancouver, Richmond, North Vancouver, New Westminster, Port Moody, Port Coquitlam, Maple Ridge, Mission, Pitt Meadows, White Rock, Chilliwack and Squamish.