Hi, I’m Mark Hammer. I’ve been helping buyers navigate the market in Vancouver for over 30 years. One of the most common questions I get every spring is simple.

Is now a good time to buy

The short answer is yes for many buyers, but only if you understand what is happening in the market and how to approach it the right way.

Let’s break it down in simple terms.

Why Activity Is Picking Up Right Now

Every year, the Vancouver market follows a pattern.

Winter tends to slow down. Fewer listings, fewer buyers, and less movement overall.

Then spring hits.

This is when we see:

More listings coming to market
More buyers re entering after waiting through winter
More activity across most price ranges

This creates a natural spike in both supply and demand.

Right now, we are in that transition period. The market is waking up, but it has not fully heated up yet.

That window matters.

What Is Driving the Market Today

There are a few key factors shaping today’s buying environment.

Inventory Is Increasing

Spring always brings more listings.

That means buyers have more choice than they did just a few months ago.

More choice gives buyers more confidence.

Pricing Has Softened in Many Segments

Over the past couple of years, we have seen price adjustments in different parts of the market.

This does not mean prices are dropping everywhere.

It means buyers are seeing better value compared to previous peaks.

Interest Rates Are More Stable

While rates are still higher than a few years ago, they have stabilized.

Buyers now have a clearer understanding of what their payments look like.

This stability helps people make decisions with more confidence.

According to Greater Vancouver Realtors, shifting inventory levels and sales ratios continue to create different conditions depending on property type, with more balanced conditions emerging in many segments. Data from Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation also shows that buyer activity tends to increase when supply improves and rate expectations become more predictable.

Why This Can Be a Good Time to Buy

When you combine these factors, you get a unique setup.

More listings are coming to market
Prices are not at peak levels
Rates are stable enough to plan around

This creates a window where buyers can act with less pressure than in a hot market.

You are not competing with ten offers on every home.

You have time to think, compare, and negotiate.

That is where opportunity lives.

What Buyers Need to Understand

Even in a more balanced market, not all homes are equal.

Well priced, well located homes still attract strong interest.

That means you need to be prepared.

Know your budget
Understand the neighbourhood
Be ready to act when the right home comes up

Buying is not about timing the entire market perfectly.

It is about recognizing value when you see it.

Where the Opportunities Are

Across Vancouver and the Lower Mainland, we are seeing opportunities in a few key areas.

Townhomes and newer condos often have more inventory, giving buyers more options.

Certain suburban markets are attracting families looking for space and long term stability.

Some properties that have been sitting on the market may offer negotiation opportunities.

The key is knowing where to look and how to position yourself.

Common Mistakes Buyers Make

Even in a better buying environment, mistakes can still happen.

Waiting too long and missing good opportunities

Focusing only on price and ignoring location and long term value

Not being prepared with financing before starting the search

The best buyers are the ones who are ready and informed.

A Simple Buying Strategy That Works

After 30 years in real estate, I keep things simple for my clients.

We focus on three things.

Clarity on what you want and need

Understanding real value in today’s market

Being ready to act when the right property appears

This approach removes stress and helps you make better decisions.

Why Timing Still Matters

You do not need to buy at the exact bottom of the market.

You need to buy at a time when you feel confident and prepared.

Right now, we are in a period where:

There is more selection
There is less pressure
There is clearer pricing

That combination does not always last long.

As more buyers re enter the market, competition can increase.

How We Help Buyers Stay Ahead

At Hammer Group, we focus on keeping our clients informed and ready.

We provide:

Weekly neighbourhood buying guides
Short video updates on market changes
Real time insights on new listings and opportunities

This helps you stay ahead of shifts in the market instead of reacting to them.

The Bottom Line

Is now a good time to buy in Vancouver

For many buyers, the answer is yes.

There is more inventory than there was in winter.

Pricing is more balanced than in previous peak markets.

Interest rates are stable enough to plan around.

That creates a window where smart buyers can make strong decisions.

Thinking About Buying

If you are considering buying this year, it is worth having a conversation early.

We can walk through:

Your goals and timeline
What is happening in your target neighbourhood
A clear strategy to help you move forward with confidence

Contact Us

Email: info@hammergrouprealtors.com
Phone: 604 761 1335
Website: hammergrouprealtors.com

Starting early gives you an advantage.

After 30 years in real estate, I can tell you that the best buyers are the ones who are prepared, informed, and ready to act when the right opportunity comes along.

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Sources

Greater Vancouver Realtors Market Reports and Monthly Statistics
Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation Housing Market Outlook and Buyer Activity Trends

Hi, I’m Mark Hammer. I’ve been helping people buy and sell homes in Vancouver for over 30 years. I focus a lot on helping homeowners downsize the right way. Right now, there is a shift happening in the market that creates a real opportunity if you own a family home.

This blog will walk you through what is happening, why it matters, and how to make a smart move.

The Market Shift You Should Know About

For a long time, buyers had many choices. There was a lot of inventory, and homes took time to sell.

That is starting to change.

In many suburban areas across the Lower Mainland, the supply of good family homes is tightening. Not every home, just the well kept homes in strong locations with good layouts and natural light.

When supply tightens, buyers focus on quality.

Families are leading the demand right now. Many are moving away from smaller spaces and busier areas. They want more room, more comfort, and a place they can stay long term.

This is why suburban markets are seeing more confidence, even while some central areas feel softer.

According to the Greater Vancouver Realtors, sales to active listings ratios and inventory levels continue to show varying conditions across property types, with detached homes often seeing tighter supply compared to condos and townhomes. Data from BC Stats also supports ongoing population growth in the region, which continues to support housing demand.

Why This Matters for Downsizers

If you have owned your home for many years, you are in a strong position.

You are not just selling a house. You are offering something that buyers want right now.

There is not a large supply of nice detached homes available. At the same time, there is a larger supply of townhomes and newer condos.

This creates a unique window.

You can sell into a market where buyers are actively looking for your type of home, and then move into a property that offers more choice and flexibility.

This is what I call a balanced opportunity.

What Buyers Are Looking For Today

Buyers today are careful. They are not rushing. They are looking for homes that feel right.

Here is what matters most to them.

Space that works for daily life. Open kitchens, family rooms, and outdoor areas.

Natural light. Bright homes always perform better.

Quiet streets and strong neighbourhoods. Buyers want stability.

Homes that are move in ready or close to it. Most buyers do not want large renovation projects.

Insights from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation highlight that livability, space, and affordability continue to drive buyer preferences, especially for families seeking long term housing solutions.

Where Sellers Make Mistakes

One of the biggest mistakes I see is over improving before selling.

Many homeowners think they need to renovate everything. That is usually not the best move.

In most cases, you only need to focus on a few key areas.

Clean and declutter the home.

Fix anything that is clearly broken or worn.

Improve the first impression with simple updates like paint and curb appeal.

Spending money in the wrong places can reduce your return.

The goal is not to create a brand new home. The goal is to present your home in the best possible way for today’s buyers.

A Simple Strategy That Works

When I meet with clients, I keep things simple.

I show them the three things that will make the biggest difference in their home.

Not a long list. Just the right list.

This approach helps you avoid unnecessary costs and focus on what actually drives results.

After 30 years in this business, I can tell you that the right strategy will always outperform overspending.

Understanding the Opportunity

Even though the overall market has been slower, there are important differences between property types.

There is limited inventory of strong detached homes.

There is more availability in townhomes and condos.

This creates a gap between what is scarce and what is more available.

That gap is where opportunity lives.

If you are downsizing, you can take advantage of both sides.

You can sell into a tighter market and buy into a more flexible one.

Where Downsizers Are Moving

Across Vancouver, many downsizers are choosing homes that offer simplicity and lifestyle.

Modern townhomes are popular because they provide space without the maintenance of a detached home.

Newer condos are also a strong option. They offer updated layouts, less maintenance, and a more predictable cost structure.

Walkable neighbourhoods are a big draw. Being close to shops, parks, and services makes day to day life easier.

Why Timing Matters

Many people ask if they should wait for a better market.

The truth is, timing the market perfectly is very difficult.

What matters more is how you position your home.

In today’s market, buyers are selective. Homes that are priced well and presented properly are the ones that succeed.

This is where experience plays a big role.

How We Help You Get the Best Result

At Hammer Group, we focus on creating a clear plan.

We start with pricing that attracts attention and brings buyers through the door.

We build exposure through digital marketing, agent networks, and local outreach.

We create a structured timeline that encourages strong offers.

This approach helps generate momentum and puts you in a stronger position when offers come in.

A Real World Example

A recent client had owned their home for over two decades. They were unsure about selling in a slower market.

Instead of doing major renovations, we focused on a few key improvements and positioned the home properly.

We created strong exposure and a clear timeline.

The result was solid interest and a successful sale, followed by a smooth move into a newer property that better fit their lifestyle.

This is the type of outcome we aim for.

The Emotional Side of Downsizing

Downsizing is not just a financial decision.

You are leaving a home that holds years of memories.

That is why the process needs to feel organized and supported.

My role is to guide you through each step so you feel confident and clear about your decisions.

The Bottom Line

There is limited supply of strong family homes.

There is steady demand from buyers looking for space and stability.

There is more choice in townhomes and condos than we have seen in recent years.

This combination creates a real opportunity for downsizers.

The key is to approach it with the right plan.

Thinking About Your Next Move

If you are considering downsizing, even in the early stages, it is worth having a conversation.

We can review your home, talk about current market conditions, and outline a simple strategy.

Often, a short discussion can help you avoid costly mistakes and give you a clear path forward.

Contact Us

Email: info@hammergrouprealtors.com
Phone: 604 761 1335
Website: hammergrouprealtors.com

If you are planning ahead for this year or next, now is a good time to start preparing.

After 30 years in real estate, I can say that the best results come from being prepared and making informed decisions.

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Sources

Greater Vancouver Realtors Market Reports and Monthly Statistics
Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation Housing Market Outlook and Buyer Preference Insights
BC Stats Population Growth and Housing Demand Data

Quick Answer

If you own a detached home in Vancouver and are thinking about downsizing, now is a strong opportunity. There is low supply of quality detached homes and a high supply of new townhomes and condos. This creates a price gap that can work in your favour.

What Is Happening in the Vancouver Market Right Now?

Many homeowners hear that inventory is rising. That is true, but it is not the full story.

• There is still a low supply of well-kept detached homes
• There is a high supply of new townhomes and condos
• Buyers are active but more selective

This means good detached homes are still in demand, while downsizers have more choices when buying.

👉 View our latest market update video: Here

Why This Is a Big Opportunity for Downsizers

If you own a larger home, especially as a long-term homeowner, this market creates a unique window.

You can:

• Sell your detached home with less competition
• Buy a newer, easier-to-manage home
• Take advantage of the price gap and keep money in the bank

This is where smart planning makes a big difference.

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What Downsizers Are Looking For Today

Most downsizers want more than just a smaller home. They want:

• Low maintenance living
• Modern design and finishings
• Walkable, central locations
• No major repairs or renovations

That is why many are choosing brand new townhomes.

Featured Opportunity: The Modern on Heather

A great example of this is:
👉 https://www.themodernonheather.com/

Why It Works for Downsizers

Location

• Central Vancouver
• Close to shops, parks, and transit
• Quiet residential setting

Homes

• Brand new construction
• High-quality finishings
• Efficient, comfortable layouts

Lifestyle

• No renovations needed
• Minimal maintenance
• Move-in ready

For many homeowners, this is the ideal next step.

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How to Get the Most Money for Your Home

In today’s market, small changes can make a big difference.

Mark Hammer offers a simple walkthrough where he shows you:

• The 3 most important things to improve
• What buyers are actually looking for
• Where to spend money (and where not to)

This helps your home stand out and attract stronger offers.

FREE Downsizing Strategy

Want to Know Your Next Move?

Before you sell, get a clear plan.

✔ What your home could sell for today
✔ The 3 key improvements to maximize value
✔ What you could buy next (including options like The Modern)
✔ How much money you could keep after downsizing

👉 Book Your Free Downsizing Consultation: info@hammergrouprealtors.com

Short Answer

Homes along the Heather Street bike route are popular with people who enjoy cycling. One example is The Modern on Heather located near Heather Street and West 29th Avenue.

About the bike route

The Heather Street bike route runs north and south through Vancouver. It connects several neighborhoods and allows cyclists to travel safely through the city.

Many commuters use this route to travel to downtown or nearby workplaces.

Why cyclists like this area

Living near the bike route makes it easy to use cycling for transportation or exercise.

Many people who enjoy outdoor activities look for homes along bike routes.

Who often chooses this location

Cyclists who commute to work often choose this neighborhood.

Young professionals who want an active lifestyle also enjoy the area.

Healthcare workers sometimes bike to nearby hospitals using this route.

Example of nearby homes

The Modern on Heather sits close to the bike route and offers modern townhomes designed for city living.

Quick FAQ

Is the Heather bike route safe
Yes. It is one of the recognized bike routes in Vancouver.

Can you bike to downtown from here
Yes. The route connects to other bike paths leading downtown.

Learn more

Thinking about moving to this neighborhood?

If you are considering living near Queen Elizabeth Park, the Cambie Corridor, or the Heather bike route, it may help to speak directly with the sales team.

Hammer Group Realtors represent The Modern on Heather and can provide details about the homes, construction timeline, and available units.

They can also help you understand whether this project could be a good fit for your lifestyle or family needs.

visit: www.themodernonheather.com

Thinking about downsizing in Vancouver and want to get the best value for your home? A well-planned kitchen renovation often delivers more than just a fresh look, it’s one of the most effective ways to boost appeal for buyers who notice functional, updated spaces the moment they walk in.

Clean, modern kitchen updates consistently stand out among high-impact upgrades for sellers 55+. Buyers put real weight on practical improvements over flashy luxury finishes, and a thoughtfully refreshed kitchen sets your home apart without overpersonalising. By focusing on fresh cabinetry, simple layouts, and quality surfaces rather than overly custom designs, you make the space feel move-in ready.

Prioritising kitchens when prepping to sell doesn’t just add style; it shows potential buyers your home has been cared for and kept current. For many downsizers, this approach makes the sales process smoother and can help realise more of the home’s value.

If you’re planning to downsize and want help deciding which renovations will make a real difference, reach out for tailored advice based on your goals and today’s local market.

Contact us: info@hammergrouprealtors.com 604-243-0669 Hammer Group Realtors

Vancouver real estate team with over 30 years of experience, specializing in buying and selling homes across the Lower Mainland.

#vancouverrealestate #exp #downsizingexpert #buyandsellvancouver

Decluttering a home can feel like a big job. Many people feel stuck before they even begin, especially when memories are tied to their belongings.

Experts say the best way to start is simple: take it one room at a time.

Instead of trying to do everything at once, start with spaces you don’t use often. This could be a spare bedroom, storage room, or garage. These areas are usually easier because there are fewer emotional decisions.

Work on one room until it is finished. Then move on to the next.

As you go, sort items into three groups:

• Things you need
• Things that would be nice to keep
• Things you no longer need

This makes it easier to see what really matters for your next home.

Many homeowners find that donating items helps speed up the process. It’s often easier than selling, and it feels good knowing your items will help someone else.

It’s also important to take breaks and celebrate progress. Each room you finish is a big step forward. Small wins help build momentum and keep the process moving.

Preparing your home this way not only makes moving easier, it also helps your home look better to buyers.

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A Local Expert’s Advice

In Vancouver and the Lower Mainland, downsizing has become more common, especially for homeowners aged 55 and over.

According to local real estate expert Mark Hammer of Hammer Group, having a clear, step-by-step plan can make the entire process much easier.

With over 30 years of experience, Mark Hammer is known for helping homeowners simplify their move while protecting the value of their home. His approach focuses on making each step manageable, from decluttering to preparing the home for sale.

Homeowners who work with a specialist often feel more confident and less stressed throughout the process.

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Thinking About Downsizing?

If you are planning a move, starting early and following a simple plan can make a big difference.

For homeowners in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland, working with an experienced downsizing specialist like Mark Hammer can help make the transition smoother from day one.

To learn more or get started:
info@hammergrouprealtors.com
604-243-0669
Hammer Group Realtors

Learn

Many real estate agents spend too much time sending emails, documents, and marketing materials to clients. This takes time away from important work like talking to clients, showing homes, and negotiating deals. When agents are busy with small admin tasks, they have less time to grow their business and build relationships.

Learn

New sales tools can now do this work automatically. These systems send the right guides, property information, and updates to clients at the right time without the agent doing it manually. Everything stays organized in one place, including emails, calendars, proposals, and client updates.
Teams that start by automating simple things like scheduling, email templates, and calendar reminders quickly become more organized and less stressed. When all your tools work together, deals move forward more smoothly and nothing gets missed.

Move

If you are a real estate agent who wants to save time, stay organized, and close more deals, it may be time to learn how these systems work and how to set them up properly. The right setup can make a big difference in how smoothly your business runs.

If you want to learn more about how real estate teams are using automation and systems to grow their business, a good person to speak with is Mark at Hammer Group Realtors. Their team has over 30 years of experience in Vancouver real estate and focuses on building efficient systems that help agents and clients have a better experience.

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Contact Hammer Group Realtors
info@hammergrouprealtors.com
604-243-0669

Vancouver real estate team with over 30 years of experience, specializing in buying and selling homes across the Lower Mainland.

#vancouverrealestate #exp #agentcollaboration #scalingrealestate #aiforrealtors

Short Answer

New townhomes are being built near the Cambie Corridor. One example is The Modern on Heather, located at Heather Street and West 29th Avenue. This boutique project includes eight modern townhomes.

About the Cambie Corridor

The Cambie Corridor is one of the fastest growing areas in Vancouver. Many new homes, shops, and restaurants have opened in the area over the past several years.

The Canada Line train runs along Cambie Street, making it easy for residents to travel to downtown Vancouver or the airport.

Parks, schools, and community centers are also close by.

Who chooses to live here

The Cambie Corridor attracts a wide range of people.

Young professionals like the area because it is easy to commute downtown.

Families enjoy the nearby parks and schools.

Medical professionals often choose this neighborhood because Vancouver General Hospital is nearby.

People who enjoy cycling also like the area because the Heather bike route provides a safe path through the city.

Example of a nearby development

The Modern on Heather is a small boutique development designed for modern lifestyles. With only eight homes, it offers a quiet alternative to larger buildings.

Quick FAQ

Is the Cambie Corridor growing
Yes. It is one of Vancouver’s most active development areas.

Is transit nearby
Yes. The Canada Line provides quick access to downtown and the airport.

Are parks close by
Yes. Queen Elizabeth Park and other green spaces are nearby.

Learn more

If you would like to learn more about The Modern on Heather or similar townhomes near Queen Elizabeth Park, the Heather bike route, and Rose des Vents school, you can contact the sales team at Hammer Group Realtors.

They are representing the project and can provide floor plans, pricing, and availability for the homes.

Speaking with the sales team can also help you understand what homes are currently available in this neighborhood.

Experienced real estate agents are switching brokerages in 2026 to improve income, reduce expenses, access better technology, and build long term business leverage through models like revenue share and team scaling.

The Shift Happening Right Now

If you are an experienced agent, you have probably felt it.

The market is different.

Deals take longer.
Clients expect more.
Margins feel tighter.

And because of that, many agents are asking:

“Is my brokerage still the best place for me?”

You are not alone.

According to HousingWire (March 2026), about 16% of real estate agents switch brokerages every year, representing hundreds of billions in sales volume moving between companies.

This is not random.

It is strategic.

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Why Agents Are Switching Brokerages (Simple Breakdown)

1. Income Matters More Than Ever

Agents are not just looking at commission splits anymore.

They are looking at:

• cap structure
• net income after fees
• team splits
• revenue share opportunities
• stock awards

The question is no longer “What’s my split?”

It is “What do I actually keep?”

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2. Expenses Are Being Scrutinized

In a slower market, every dollar counts.

Agents are paying attention to:

• monthly brokerage fees
• marketing costs
• desk fees
• team overhead

If expenses are too high, even top producers feel it.

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3. Technology Is Now a Deal Breaker

The best agents are running businesses, not just selling homes.

They want brokerages with:

• strong CRM systems
• automation tools
• marketing support
• easy transaction management

Less admin = more deals
More deals = higher income

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4. Culture and Support Still Win

This may surprise you.

Most agents do not leave just for money.

They leave because:

• they feel unsupported
• leadership is unclear
• there is no real growth path

Agents want:

• mentorship
• collaboration
• accountability

Because production grows in the right environment.

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5. Agents Want Leverage, Not Just Sales

This is the biggest change in 2026.

Agents are thinking long term.

They are asking:

“How do I build something bigger than myself?”

That includes:

• recruiting (rev share)
• building a team
• scaling systems
• creating an exit strategy

They are not just selling homes anymore.
They are building businesses.

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The Truth Most Agents Miss

Switching brokerages alone will not fix your business.

Some agents move…

And nothing changes.

Why?

Because the brokerage is only one part of the equation.

The real question is:
Which environment helps you grow faster and keep more income?

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How to Know If It’s Time to Switch

Ask yourself these simple questions:

• Am I keeping enough of what I earn?
• Do I have the right systems to grow?
• Am I supported by leadership?
• Is my business growing or flat?

If you are unsure…

It is worth exploring your options.

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Why You Should Talk to the Right Expert First

Before making any move, you need clarity.

Not pressure.
Not recruiting pitches.

You need someone who understands:

• brokerage models
• cap vs split vs rev share
• real net income math
• long term growth strategy

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Meet Mark Hammer – A Trusted Advisor for Agents

Mark Hammer works with agents who are thinking about their next move.

His approach is simple:

• understand your current situation
• break down your real numbers
• compare brokerage models clearly
• help you choose the best path for you

This is not about switching brokerages.

It is about building a better business.

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Take the Next Step

If you are even thinking about switching brokerages…

Have a real conversation first.

No pressure
No commitment
Just clarity

Connect with Mark Hammer today
and explore what your next move could look like.