<<< back to article list

Change is inevitable, and potentially imminent


Blog by Robert Matthews | August 30th, 2021


If you've been following the election campaigns, you'll know that the three main federal parties have all promised to improve housing affordability. Initiatives to build 1.4m million homes in four years; prohibiting foreign buyers; disallowing blind-bidding; increased mortgage insurance limits and longer mortgage amortizations; and even more promises in the fine print. All and any of these could help or could hinder the housing market, depending on your perspective.

No doubt some of these proposals may help some people buy a home who could not buy otherwise. Of course, some parties have put forward contradictory polices that may counter these initiatives, such as the goal to welcome some 400,000 immigrants per year, most of whom will settle in the big cities!

Predictions for housing after the election? I’d say there are just too many variables at play right now. Anyone who is saying otherwise is guesstimating or may have some sort of inherent bias. It remains to be seen how the variables will play out and how the real estate world here is affected. I do expect however that we may see some short-term seller and buyer hesitation, as is typical in an election period whether federal or provincial (or U.S. for that matter). Elections in general tend to be distracting; a desire to wait and process the aftermath is also natural.

Election or not, and no matter the outcome, as we move into September we also move into one of the traditionally most active times of the year for real estate. People need to buy and sell for various reasons, regardless of what is going on in the larger outside world. Between now and early December many homes will be sold and bought. I have three listings ready to go at this point myself, and several clients keen to buy when the perfect property comes active. If you’re thinking of making a move in this fairly tight fall timeframe, let’s get on it! You may want to lock in a sale before new housing-related policies are implemented, some of which may affect demand and values in some sectors.

Helping clients throughout Metro Van
You may know me from a particular neighbourhood or area. I do tend to seek new business from areas where I have a lot of history. However, I’m more than happy to be your trusted go-to Realtor throughout the Metro Vancouver region.   

With 20 years experience and more than 600 sales throughout the region, you can trust me to look after your sale or purchase every step of the way with the utmost professionalism. Whether maximizing your sale price or bargaining hard for a well-screened purchase, you'll be glad I’m on your side.

Here's hoping you can get out to enjoy a bit more summer before we move into the fall!