Anxious Optimism: What's Really Happening in Vancouver Real Estate?

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May 4, 2025

In this episode, Marko Gelo and Andrew Way (of Oakwyn Realty) discuss Vancouver Real Estate and other surrounding factors that are influencing it. Here’s a summary of the discussion:

Anxious Optimism: What’s Really Happening in Vancouver Real Estate

Anxious But Active: Buyers—especially first-time homebuyers—are cautiously entering the market, encouraged by lower interest rates and increased inventory. However, seasoned homeowners and upgraders are largely sitting on the sidelines, waiting for more clarity.

The Rate Confusion: Fixed mortgage rates have dropped into the low 4% range, with some special offers dipping into the high 3s. Yet this hasn’t triggered the kind of buying surge many expected, largely due to political uncertainty and over-analysis by some buyers.

Pre-approvals & Misconceptions: Many buyers remain unclear on how down payments affect rates. For instance, putting less than 20% down might secure better rates due to mortgage insurance, contrary to common assumptions. Brokers are spending more time explaining these nuances—and undoing the confusion caused by online calculators.

The Efficiency of Collaboration: The episode also highlights the value of having a mortgage broker and realtor who work as a team. Quick communication and trust between professionals can save buyers crucial time in competitive situations.

Time is Money: Whether it’s negotiating over $5,000 or chasing a slightly lower rate, the hosts remind listeners that overthinking small differences can cause bigger losses—like missing out on the right property.

For a deeper dive into their discussion, tune into the episode in the link above!