The local real estate market in the Tri-Cities and Maple Ridge has entered a more balanced phase in early 2026. While homes are still selling, we are seeing a noticeable shift in buyer behaviour and overall market momentum.
Across Metro Vancouver, residential sales totalled 1,648 transactions in February 2026, which is nearly 10% lower than the same month last year and almost 29% below the 10-year seasonal average.
This slower pace reflects what many agents and sellers are experiencing firsthand — buyers are taking their time and being more selective.
Buyers Have More Choice
Inventory levels have risen compared to the past few years, giving buyers more options and more negotiating power. In fact, some segments of the market have shifted firmly into buyer-market territory, particularly detached homes where the sales-to-active listing ratio has dropped below typical balanced levels.
With more listings available, buyers are not feeling the urgency that defined the market during the pandemic years. Many are carefully comparing properties, waiting for the right opportunity, and looking for homes that are priced competitively.
Prices Adjusting
Home values have softened slightly across many areas in the Lower Mainland. For example, the benchmark price for a detached home across Metro Vancouver has declined to approximately $1.83M, down about 8–9% from the previous year.
In the Tri-Cities specifically, benchmark prices have also edged down, with some areas seeing declines of around 4–5% in assessed values year over year.
Maple Ridge has experienced similar adjustments. The benchmark price for all property types sits around $919,600, representing a modest year-over-year decrease.
These changes are not dramatic corrections but rather a return to more normal pricing conditions after several years of rapid appreciation.
Why Pricing Matters More Than Ever
In today’s environment, accurate pricing from day one is critical.
Homes that come to market priced correctly are still selling in a reasonable timeframe. However, listings that start too high often sit on the market longer and eventually require price reductions to attract buyers.
Because buyers now have options, they tend to focus on homes that offer clear value compared to competing listings.
A Strong Opportunity for Move-Up Buyers
One group that can benefit the most from today’s conditions is move-up buyers.
With prices stabilizing and inventory improving, families looking to upgrade from a townhouse to a detached home—or from a condo to a townhouse—may find more opportunity than they have seen in years.
The key strategy in this market is often selling first before purchasing. Doing so puts buyers in a much stronger negotiating position and allows them to make cleaner offers without the pressure of a subject-to-sale condition.
The Bottom Line
While the market is quieter than in previous years, homes are still selling and opportunities exist for both buyers and sellers.
- Buyers benefit from more selection and negotiating power
- Sellers who price strategically can still achieve strong results
- Move-up buyers may find excellent opportunities in today’s market
As always, every neighbourhood and property type behaves slightly differently, so understanding the micro-market in your specific area is essential.
If you’re considering making a move in 2026, now is a great time to have a conversation and explore your options.
In any climate, We’ve Got You Covered – the Generations Real Estate Partners.