March 2023 saw the second consecutive month of growth in sales in the Fraser Valley, and although still below seasonal norms, the trend is an encouraging sign that the region continues to head toward increased market stability. 

At 1,550, property sales posted on the FVREB’s Multiple Listings Service (MLS®) were 72.6 percent higher than sales recorded last month. Although 39.9 percent lower than a year ago and nearly 25 percent below the ten-year average, it marks the first time since August that monthly sales exceeded the 1,000 level.

“After months of uncertainty made it difficult for buyers and sellers to re-enter the housing market, we may well be seeing a turning point,” said Narinder Bains, Chair of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board. “The pause in rate hikes has helped to restore a much-needed sense of predictability, which is building consumer confidence. As a result, we’re starting to see more traffic at open houses along with more multiple offer situations.”

As in all regions across the province and the country, low supply is still an issue and a primary factor driving price growth.

New listings, at 2,559, were 32 percent higher than in February, but still, 44.1 percent below last year, while active listings were up by 2.8 percent over last month and 3.5 percent below last year. However, both are well off the ten-year average and among the lowest March listings recorded in a decade.

As a result, the aggregate sales-to-active listings ratio grew to 34 percent, shifting the market into sellers' territory, with demand for townhomes even more pronounced, at a 62 percent ratio. (The market is considered balanced when the sales-to-active listings ratio is between 12 percent and 20 percent.)

Benchmark prices continued to edge upward with roughly two percent month-over-month growth across all categories. The composite Benchmark price was $965,100 in March.

“While market demand continues to trend up, we still face an uphill battle on the supply side, which is keeping prices elevated,” said FVREB CEO, Baldev Gill. “The province will require sustained inventory growth of at least 25 percent over each of the next five years in order to normalize inventories. Until then, we strongly advise buyers and sellers to consult with a REALTOR® to plan the best strategy.”

Properties spent slightly fewer days on the market compared to last month with detached homes posting 30 days on the market and apartments 29. Townhomes moved faster, at 26 days.

MLS® HPI Benchmark Price Activity

• Single Family Detached: At $1,390,600 the Benchmark price for an FVREB single-family detached home increased 1.9 percent compared to February 2023 and decreased 21.7 percent compared to March 2022.
• Townhomes: At $794,400, the Benchmark price for an FVREB townhome increased 2.3 percent compared to February 2023 and decreased 14.5 percent compared to March 2022.
• Apartments: At $521,800 the Benchmark price for an FVREB apartment/condo increased 2.3 percent compared to February 2023 and decreased 11 percent compared to March 2022.

1. Make a Budget Selling a home can involve unexpected expenses, so it's important to create a budget to cover these costs. Dave Ramsey offers a helpful sample budget on his website that can guide you from the beginning of the sales process to closing.

2. Choose the Right Real Estate Agent A qualified real estate agent can help navigate the complexities of selling your home, from effective marketing to smooth negotiations. Seek recommendations from friends, family, or your lender, and do your research to find the right agent in your area.

3. Bonus: Start Shopping for Your New Home Once your current home is ready to sell, start exploring your options for a new home. Enjoy the process of finding your dream home.

4. Enhance Your Curb Appeal First impressions matter, so start by improving your home's exterior. Hire a professional or rent a power washer to clean your house and driveway. Consider repainting your shutters or mailbox and adding a sealant to the driveway to make it look refreshed and new.

5. Prep Your Yard After the winter months, your yard may need some attention. Invest in seed or sod for brown patches, pull weeds, trim bushes, and add mulch or pine straw to spruce up your garden. Choose bright, colorful flowers to create an inviting atmosphere.

6. Deep Clean Your home should be spotless to attract potential buyers. Clean bathrooms and kitchens thoroughly, declutter drawers and closets, and dust the blades of ceiling fans and appliances. Consider hiring professionals to clean carpets.

7. Declutter and Depersonalize Removing clutter and personal items can help buyers picture themselves in your home. Remove knickknacks, children's drawings, and family photos. Consider removing a piece of furniture from each room to make it look more spacious.

8. Refresh Paint and Hardware A fresh coat of neutral paint can give a room a new lease on life. Clean baseboards, dust walls, and replace drawer pulls and knobs. Update porch lights and door handles, and consider a new front door if it's in your budget.

9. Focus on the Kitchen and Bath Small updates can make a big difference. Declutter storage areas, update fixtures, and add attractive lighting. Consider re-grouting and caulking in the bathroom.

10. Create a Welcoming Outdoor Space Spring is the perfect time to highlight your porch or patio. Sweep off decks, tidy up outdoor furniture, and make sure your grill is ready for use.

11. Take Photos Highlight the beauty of your home throughout the year with seasonal photos. Showcase your home's best features to help prospective buyers envision themselves living there.