Federal legislation effective March 2026 allows GST relief for first-time home buyers on qualifying new homes priced up to $1.5 million, with full exemption up to $1 million. Eligibility depends on purchase date, home use, and documentation. Buyers must verify rules carefully, keep detailed records, and not assume all properties qualify. Taxpayers should confirm current rules before filing or financial decisions, as tax impacts vary by individual circumstances.
Vancouver's ABC-led council focused on speeding up housing permits with a 3-3-3-1 framework, approving multiplex policies, eliminating minimum parking, and updating development plans. Despite faster approvals, affordable and supportive housing progress lagged, with some initiatives like the Villages Plan and social housing towers rejected. Experts criticized the emphasis on speed over community engagement. Upcoming elections feature parties promising varied housing strategies, from accelerating development to enhancing affordable and supportive housing.
Earlier this year, Canada’s ownership-cost burden reached ~53% of median household income by Late-Q2, improving by ~0.5 points from Late-Q1 nationwide, a slight easing.
Ownership costs stayed mostly stable through Late-Q2, showing affordability improved only modestly and suggesting the national shift came from steady pricing, not a rapid reset.
Within Canada, Vancouver and Toronto led housing-cost declines, while Regina, Saskatoon, and Winnipeg posted modest price gains, showing affordability shifts varied by market.
Calgary and Edmonton were largely flat quarterly, with slight cost easing, yet both stayed above long-term affordability norms, underscoring lingering pressure for local buyers.
Edmonton remained among Canada’s most affordable major markets, but even there buyers faced affordability hurdles that could keep some from entering the market.
Vancouver has eased zoning rules at scale, making small-scale infill a more important housing source within existing neighbourhoods as the city looks to expand supply.
In Vancouver, as-of-right permissions let projects that fit zoning proceed without added council approval or rezoning, helping more homes move forward on typical residential lots.
Small-scale infill in Vancouver includes two-to-eight-unit buildings and accessory dwelling units, creating additional housing within established neighbourhoods instead of relying only on undeveloped land.
The analysis linked zoning reforms with more small-scale redevelopment, especially in neighbourhoods with older homes located closer to Vancouver’s downtown core areas.
Future Vancouver infill growth still depends on fees, approval timelines, building rules, financing, and whether projects remain financially viable for the teams delivering them.
The “eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month" of 1918 that signaled the end of World War I.
On this day we honour those who have sacrificed so much to keep our flag flying high.
Remembrance Day
Salute to all heroes, and thank you for your service.
Vancouver — Most Expensive homes for October 2026.
Listings (sorted by price):
1. Listing R3167930 — $58,800,000
2. Listing R3143519 — $49,880,000
3. Listing R3168173 — $38,800,000
4. Listing R3118660 — $35,990,000
5. Listing R3138481 — $27,880,000
6. Listing R3162306 — $26,880,000
7. Listing R3172388 — $26,800,000
8. Listing R3178532 — $19,800,000
9. Listing R3151299 — $19,500,000
10. Listing R3160820 — $18,800,000
11. Listing R3162268 — $18,000,000
12. Listing R3163856 — $17,890,000
13. Listing R3171176 — $17,800,000
14. Listing R3113846 — $17,398,000
15. Listing R3125664 — $16,990,000
A $2-billion rebate program will offer up to $10,000 per household to encourage Canadians to switch to electric cold-climate air-source heat pumps. The program, spanning eight years, aims to support up to 820,000 homeowners, promising lower energy bills, year-round comfort, and reduced emissions. Income-based rebates range from $2,000 to $10,000, with no energy audits required. Applications will be online with quick approval and payment.
Investor alert! Best value in Vancouver West, Welcome to MC² by Intracorp! This bright, West-facing 1 bed + 1 bath home offers stunning city, mountain & park views. Features include an open-concept layout, integrated appliances, spa-inspired bath, in-suite laundry, and a large covered balcony. Stay comfortable year-round with energy-efficient A/C & heating. Enjoy top-tier amenities: concierge, gym, meeting room. Steps to Marine Gateway shops, SkyTrain, T&T, Cineplex & more. School catchment: Sexsmith Elementary & Churchill Secondary (IB). 1 locker included.
A zero property tax increase means the tax rate stays the same, but municipal revenues can still rise through other fees and charges. Maintaining city services and infrastructure requires ongoing investment, often exceeding property tax revenue, leading to funding gaps. Tax freezes may involve service cuts, deferred maintenance, or alternative revenues. Evaluating municipal finances requires understanding long-term costs, service impacts, and equitable funding beyond immediate personal needs.
In August 2026, Greater Vancouver saw its median sale price fall by 3.5% compared to last year. This is a meaningful shift, opening up more affordability for buyers in a market known for high prices. If you've been waiting for a better entry point, this could be your moment to act.
