Like many other regions across the country, liveability is important to homebuyers in Vancouver. Tied to liveability, having a home in a neighbourhood which suits your lifestyle and offers a sense of belonging is key to contentment and happiness. Kitsilano is considered by many to be one of the best neighbourhoods in Vancouver region right now, if not the best, with an average of one of every two listings selling over the last three months. Homebuyers are drawn to the neighbourhood for a variety of reasons, including price point, desirable homes/properties, sense of community, and its proximity amenities like the beach and ocean. Demand in the Vancouver region is primarily being driven by city lovers with no kids, cultural aficionados and health and wellness lovers.
We asked RE/MAX brokers and agents to weigh in on their market, and help identify some trends and the best neighbourhoods in Vancouver. Here’s what they said.
Top concerns for homebuyers in Vancouver are:
- Affordability
- Low Housing
- Diversity/sense of Community
Top three liveability qualities buyers seek in Vancouver are:
- Affordability – this will always be a major factor in Vancouver, mixed with ‘Value’. Vancouver is expensive, but people see the ‘value’ in the right neighbourhoods
- Accessibility/Walkability
- Amenities/Restaurants/Shops nearby
Best Neighbourhoods in Vancouver
Top 3 most affordable neighbourhoods:
- Mount Pleasant
- Main
- Renfrew Heights
Top 3 up-and-coming neighbourhoods:
- Grandview
- Hastings Sunrise
- Strathcona
Top 3 most luxurious neighbourhoods:
- Point Grey
- Shaughnessy
- Dunbar
Pick and buy for location – a home can’t be moved. Choose a spot where you feel at home, friends and family are nearby, where you see future positive growth
Advice to Homebuyers
“When making a purchase, homebuyers need to prioritize viewing properties they can afford. For many homebuyers, affordability is a significant concern. The purchasing process is easier to navigate when sticking to your budget,” says Tim Hill of RE/MAX All Points Realty, based in the Greater Vancouver Area.
Tim says homebuyers should also consider size when purchasing. “Analyze how much space is truly needed both in the short and long-term. This will reduce the likelihood of having to re-enter the market too soon.”
And finally, “Pick and buy for location – a home can’t be moved. Choose a spot where you feel at home, friends and family are nearby, where you see future positive growth.”