Date: January 14, 2026 Category: Market Statistics, Real Estate News

As we close the book on 2025, the Canadian real estate landscape tells a story of resilience and rebalancing. For buyers and sellers in Campbell River and across Vancouver Island, understanding the broader national trends—from the busy streets of Toronto to the coastal communities of BC—is key to making informed decisions in 2026.

December’s data reveals a shift towards more balanced markets across major centres, with inventory levels rising and price growth moderating. Let’s dive into the year-end numbers to see what they mean for your real estate goals.

Vancouver Island Real Estate Board (VIREB)

Focus: Campbell River, Nanaimo, Parksville-Qualicum, Comox Valley

The Vancouver Island market has demonstrated remarkable stability in the face of economic headwinds. While sales activity saw a typical seasonal dip in December, the year-over-year picture shows a market that is holding its value well. For local buyers in Campbell River and the Discovery Islands, this stability offers a predictable environment for entering the market or upgrading.

December 2025 Key Statistics:

• Total Unit Sales: 412 (Down 6% year-over-year)

• Active Listings: 3,075 (Up 7% year-over-year)

• Single-Family Benchmark Price: $773,000 (Up 1% year-over-year)

• Apartment Benchmark Price: $405,400 (Up 3% year-over-year)

• Townhouse Benchmark Price: $537,200 (Down 2% year-over-year)

Roman’s Take: "The slight increase in inventory gives buyers more breathing room, but the resilience in single-family home prices proves that demand for the Island lifestyle remains strong."

Visualizing the Island Market:

Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR)

Focus: Metro Vancouver, Burnaby, Richmond, North Shore

2025 SAW LOWEST ANNUAL SALES TOTAL IN OVER 2 DACADES.
The Metro Vancouver market ended 2025 with sales activity at a two-decade low, firmly placing the region in Buyer’s Market territory. With a sales-to-active listings ratio of 12.7%, downward pressure on prices has created opportunities for those who were previously priced out.
Last year’s sales total was 24.7 per cent below the 10-year annual sales average (31,625).

December 2025 Key Statistics:

• Residential Sales: 1,537 (Down 12.9% year-over-year)

• New Listings: 1,849 (Up 10.3% year-over-year)

• Total Active Listings: 12,550 (Up 14.6% year-over-year)

• Sales-to-Active Ratio: 12.7%

• Composite Benchmark Price: $1,114,800 (Down 4.5% year-over-year)

Market Balance Indicator:

Calgary Real Estate Board (CREB)

Focus: Calgary, Airdrie, Cochrane

Calgary continues its shift toward balance. A surge in new listings throughout 2025 helped alleviate the chronic supply shortages of previous years. This influx has cooled price growth, making the market more accessible compared to the frenzied pace of 2024.

December 2025 Key Statistics for City of Calgary:

• Total Sales: 1,126 (Down 14.57% year-over-year)

• New Listings: 1,219 (Up 6% year-over-year)

• Total Inventory: 3,860 units

• Months of Supply: 3.43 months (Balanced)

• Benchmark Price: $554,700

Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB)

Focus: GTA, York Region, Peel Region

The GTA market is seeing improved affordability as we head into 2026. With mortgage rates trending lower and selling prices adjusting, TRREB anticipates a potential recovery in buyer activity as consumer confidence returns.

December 2025 Key Statistics:

• Home Sales: 3,697 (Down 8.9% year-over-year)

• New Listings: 5,299 (Up 1.8% year-over-year)

• Average Selling Price: $1,006,735 (Down 5.1% year-over-year)

Year-Over-Year Comparison:

What This Means for You in 2026

Whether you are looking to sell your home in Campbell River, buy a vacation property on Quadra Island, or invest in the broader market, the data points to a year of opportunity. Inventory is healthy, and price volatility has stabilized.

Thinking of making a move this year? Let’s chat about how these stats apply to your specific neighbourhood and property type.

Roman Krzaczek Your Local Expert for Campbell River & The Discovery Islands 📞 Cell: 604-787-4594 ✉️ Email: Contact Me

Sources: CREB, TRREB, GVR, VIREB

The Castle Has Sold! 🏰✨

I’m excited to share that the iconic Wolf Bluff Castle on Cortes Island has officially sold! This has been, without question, the most unique and memorable property of my real estate career. Representing a half-finished, five-storey castle on a Gulf Island doesn’t come around often—and helping guide this sale from start to finish has been a truly rewarding experience.

This listing drew massive attention from across British Columbia and beyond. From social media buzz to coverage from major news outlets, the interest in this Cortes Island “castle” was incredible. Even my most recent Facebook post continued to receive inquiries long after the listing went live, proving just how captivating this property was to buyers, investors, and dreamers alike.

The best part? The sellers were thrilled to hear that the new owner plans to preserve and restore the castle, bringing new life to this rare and imaginative structure. It’s always exciting when a property with so much character finds someone ready to honour its potential.

A big thank-you to everyone who shared the listing and helped spread the word—including 604Now for showcasing this amazing opportunity on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/604Now
Original shared post: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1FN8LA9HWm/

If you’re interested in unique properties, Gulf Island real estate, or buying and selling on Cortes or Quadra Island, I’m always here to help.

📞 Call or text: 604-787-4594
🌐 Visit: romankrzaczek.ca

Whether you’re curious about market trends, planning to sell, or searching for your next island property, I’d be happy to answer your questions.

Selling your home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, or relocating, working with a professional realtor can make a world of difference. Many homeowners consider selling on their own, but partnering with an experienced real estate agent ensures your home sells faster, smoother, and for the best possible price.

As a Campbell River and Quadra Island BC realtor, I’ve seen firsthand how having the right guidance transforms the selling experience. Here’s why hiring a realtor — and choosing the right one — is so important.

1. Local Market Expertise That Makes a Difference

Every market is different, and real estate trends can change quickly. A professional Campbell River realtor knows how to read the local data, compare similar listings, and set a strategic price that attracts qualified buyers without undervaluing your home.

When you work with me, I use up-to-date insights from Campbell River, Quadra Island, and surrounding areas to position your property competitively and highlight what makes it stand out — whether that’s ocean views, modern upgrades, or family-friendly neighborhoods.

2. Powerful Marketing That Gets Results

Selling your home is about visibility — and realtors have the tools to make sure your listing gets seen by the right people.

Through professional photography, MLS listings, social media advertising, and Real Broker’s network, your home reaches a larger audience of active buyers. I also use tailored marketing strategies designed specifically for Vancouver Island real estate, ensuring maximum exposure across digital and local channels.

The result? More qualified showings and faster offers.

3. Expert Negotiation for the Best Price

Negotiating a home sale can be stressful — but that’s where experience matters. As your realtor, I act as your professional negotiator, ensuring your interests are protected and your property sells for its true value.

From handling multiple offers to managing buyer conditions, I take care of the details so you can make informed, confident decisions.

4. Legal Protection and Stress-Free Paperwork

Selling a home involves dozens of documents, legal forms, and disclosure requirements. A single oversight can delay your sale or create problems down the road.

I handle all the paperwork, coordinate with lawyers, and ensure your transaction follows BC real estate regulations. You can relax knowing everything is handled properly from listing to closing day.

5. A Trusted Network to Support Your Sale

When you hire me as your realtor, you also gain access to a trusted local network — photographers, stagers, contractors, and inspectors — who help make your property shine.

From preparing your home for listing to final walkthroughs, every detail is handled by professionals who care about achieving the best outcome for you.

6. Confidence and Peace of Mind

Selling your home isn’t just a transaction — it’s a major life event. My goal is to make the process as smooth and rewarding as possible.

With personalized guidance, honest communication, and proven results, I take the stress off your shoulders so you can focus on what’s next.

Final Thoughts

Hiring a realtor is more than a convenience — it’s a smart investment in your success. Whether you’re selling in Campbell River, Quadra Island, or anywhere across Vancouver Island, having an experienced professional by your side ensures the best outcome.

If you’re thinking about selling, let’s connect. I’m Roman Krzaczek, a Real Broker realtor serving Campbell River and Quadra Island, and I’d be happy to help you navigate every step of the process — from listing to sold.

👉 Contact me today at romankrzaczek.ca or call: 604-787-4594 to get started.

Nanaimo, BC
RESILIENT HOUSING MARKET CARRIES VIREB INTO THE FALL
In the single-family category (excluding acreage and waterfront), 307 homes sold in September, down four per cent from one year ago and nine per cent from August. Sales of condo apartments last month came in at 59, a decrease of 14 per cent year over year and a drop of 20 per cent from August. In the row/townhouse category, 79 units changed hands in September, down 13 per cent from one year ago and up 10 per cent from August.

VIREB Chair Olivier Naud notes that VIREB’s housing market, like last month, is in the mid-range of balanced, with approximately six months of inventory. Balanced markets offer the best of both worlds for buyers and sellers.

In Campbell River, the benchmark price of a single-family home was $706,200 last month, up two per cent from September 2024. The Comox Valley’s year-over-year benchmark price rose by two per cent to $846,000. In the Cowichan Valley, the benchmark price was $804,100, up four per cent from September 2024. Nanaimo’s year-over-year benchmark price increased by one per cent to $816,200, while the Parksville-Qualicum area saw its benchmark price increase by three per cent to $933,400. The cost of a benchmark single-family home in Port Alberni was $519,300, up four per cent from the previous year. For the North Island, the benchmark price of a single-family home dropped by one per cent to $449,400.

FULL REPORT HERE

Calgary, AB
Price declines mostly driven by higher density home types
Higher price adjustments are occurring for apartment and row style properties while detached and semi-detached properties have reported modest declines. As of August, the unadjusted total residential benchmark price was $577,200, down over last month and nearly four per cent lower than levels reported last year.

“Perspective is needed when it comes to price adjustments. The most significant price adjustments are occurring for row and apartment style homes as they are also the product type that are facing the largest gains in supply choice,” said Ann-Marie Lurie, Chief Economist at CREB®. “Meanwhile price adjustments in the detached and semi-detached markets range from modest price growth in some areas to larger price declines in areas with large supply growth. Overall, recent price adjustments have not offset all the gains that have occurred over the past several years.”

FULL REPORT HERE

Toronto, ON
September home sales increased in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) compared to a year earlier, as more homebuyers sought to take advantage of more affordable monthly mortgage payments. Buyers continued to respond to substantial choice in the marketplace by negotiating the average selling price downward.
“The Bank of Canada’s September interest rate cut was welcome news for homebuyers. With lower borrowing costs, more households are now able to afford monthly mortgage payments on a home that meets their needs. Increased home purchases will also stimulate the economy through housing-related spin-off spending helping to offset the impact of ongoing trade challenges,” said Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB) President Elechia Barry-Sproule.

FULL REPORT HERE

VANCOUVER, BC
Fall market favours buyers

“With another cut to Bank of Canada’s policy rate behind us, and markets pricing in at least one more cut by the end of the year, Metro Vancouver homebuyers have reason to be optimistic about the fall market,” said Andrew Lis, GVR’s director of economics and data analytics. “Easing prices, near-record high inventory levels, and increasingly favourable borrowing costs are offering those looking to purchase a home this fall with plenty of opportunity.”

The benchmark price for a detached home is $1,933,100. This represents a 4.4 per cent decrease from September 2024 and a 0.9 per cent decrease compared to August 2025.
The benchmark price of an apartment home is $728,800. This represents a 4.4 per cent decrease from September 2024 and a 0.8 per cent decrease compared to August 2025.
The benchmark price of a townhouse is $1,069,800. This represents a 2.7 per cent decrease from September 2024 and a 0.9 per cent decrease compared to August 2025.

FULL REPORT HERE

Nanaimo, BC
MARKET SLOWER THAN IN JULY BUT STILL AHEAD OF LAST YEAR
“August was slower than July, but that’s typical with back to school on the horizon,” says Naud. “However, sales were up from the previous August, and our market is proving to be resilient. There is pent-up demand but still some hesitancy that we attribute to ongoing tariff concerns.”
However, Naud adds that tariff worries have turned out to be more of a psychological deterrent than an economic one. The British Columbia Real Estate Association (BCREA) reports that the 35 per cent tariff is only on non-compliant goods, which is a very small share of exports (less than 10 per cent).
“The effective tariff rate on all Canadian exports to the United States is about five per cent only, and on U.S. imports to Canada, it’s about two per cent,” says Naud. “So, despite our initial fears, there has actually been minimal impact on growth or inflation.”

FULL REPORT HERE

Calgary, AB
Supply growth weighs on home prices
"Price declines are not occurring across all property types in all locations of the city, and even where there have been declines, it has not erased all the gains made over the past several years," said Ann-Marie Lurie, Chief Economist at CREB®. "The steepest price declines have occurred for apartment and row style homes, mostly in the North East and North districts, which coincides with significant gains in new supply."  

FULL REPORT HERE

Toronto, ON
August home sales reported by the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB) were up on a year-over-year basis. Over the same period, home buyers benefitted from an even larger increase in the inventory of listings. Average selling prices continued to be negotiated downward due to the elevated choice across market segments.

“Compared to last year, we have seen a modest increase in home sales over the summer. With the economy slowing and inflation under control, additional interest rate cuts by the Bank of Canada could help offset the impact of tariffs. Greater affordability would not only support more home sales but also generate significant economic spin-off benefits,” said TRREB President Elechia Barry-Sproule.

FULL REPORT HERE

VANCOUVER, BC
Easing home prices help lift sales in August

“Prices have eased around two per cent since the start of the year and are down about one per cent month over month in August, signaling that sellers have been willing to lower price expectations,” Lis said. “As sellers’ and buyers’ expectations have become more aligned, transaction volume has picked up. Newly listed properties remain in line with their ten-year seasonal average however, which when paired with increasing sales activity, is likely to diminish the available inventory. This also means the window of plentiful opportunity for buyers may soon begin closing if these trends continue.”

The benchmark price for a detached home is $1,950,300. This represents a 4.8 per cent decrease from August 2024 and a 1.2 per cent decrease compared to July 2025.
The benchmark price of an apartment home is $734,400. This represents a 4.4 per cent decrease from August 2024 and a 1.3 per cent decrease compared to July 2025.
The benchmark price of a townhouse is $1,079,600. This represents a 3.5 per cent decrease from August 2024 and a 1.8 per cent decrease compared to July 2025.

FULL REPORT HERE

Congratulations to my seller client! and also congratulations to the buyer of this incredible property! Sophie Gardner Team did a great job at representing the buyer. 

1416 Manzanita Rd, Cortes Island is now under contract! 

Wolf Bluff Castle: A Rare Cortes Island Property Sold

The five-storey Wolf Bluff Castle on Cortes Island, British Columbia has officially sold! Initially listed at $440,000, this remarkable property attracted national attention, including CTV News and my Instagram post.

Wolf Bluff Castle represents the ultimate unique island property in B.C., combining history, charm, and the opportunity for buyers seeking a renovation project.

Features of Wolf Bluff Castle: A B.C. Island Castle Like No Other

• Five-storey medieval-style architecture: Includes eight bedrooms, a dining hall, three turrets, and a dungeon.

• Historic construction by Karl Triller: The late builder, affectionately known as the “King of Cortes,” lived in a modest home on the property while crafting his castle vision.

• Additional structures: The property included Triller’s house, a workshop, and 1.97 acres of land, offering multiple possibilities for development or restoration.

• Utilities & renovation potential: Water and power are available, but there is no septic system — ideal for buyers interested in transforming a project into a dream home.

• Prime island location: Approximately a 15-minute walk from the Cortes Bay boat launch, perfect for buyers embracing remote island living in British Columbia.

The castle’s construction is reinforced with concrete-filled cinder blocks, ensuring a solid, durable foundation despite its unfinished interior.

The Story Behind Wolf Bluff Castle

As the listing realtor, I was drawn to Wolf Bluff Castle because of its unique character, history, and potential for restoration.

Karl Triller was a legendary figure on Cortes Island. In the 1990s and 2000s, he would put on a crown and host celebrations, food, and music for locals — earning him the title “King of Cortes.” Though the castle was unfinished, it remains a historic landmark in the B.C. island real estate market.

After gaining wide interest, the castle finally found a buyer, preserving this extraordinary piece of Cortes Island history.

Why Wolf Bluff Castle Was a Rare Opportunity

Wolf Bluff Castle illustrates the appeal of unique island properties for sale in B.C.:

1. Undervalued historic structures: Properties with character, history, or unusual architecture often attract buyers seeking something truly different.

2. Renovation potential: The castle was perfect for those willing to invest in a project, with opportunities to create a dream estate.

3. Island lifestyle: Remote yet accessible, Cortes Island offers natural beauty, privacy, and a strong sense of community.

For other examples of rare B.C. island properties, see my Unique Coastal Properties page.

Cortes Island Real Estate: What Buyers Should Know

Cortes Island has a year-round population of roughly 1,000 residents and is a popular destination for vacationers in summer. Real estate here moves differently than in urban areas — character and location often outweigh size or finishing.

For more guidance, explore my Cortes Island Homes for Sale page or learn how to Sell Your Island Home effectively.

https://cheknews.ca/unfinished-castle-on-cortes-island-b-c-selling-for-100k-less-than-average-victoria-condo-1269494/

May has seen some market division across the whole country. It’s very visible, and it was showing in April already that big markets like Vancouver and Toronto were showing lots of inventory increases but slower sales. This trend has continued into May. Please see the facts below, numbers that were shared with each real estate board across the major markets. 

VANCOUVER, BC- June 03, 2025
Buyers remain hesitant as inventory builds

May saw inventory levels across Metro Vancouver* reach another ten-year high, while home sales registered on the MLS® remained muted. The Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR) reports that residential sales in the region totalled 2,228 in May 2025, an 18.5 per cent decrease from the 2,733 sales recorded in May 2024. This was 30.5 per cent below the 10-year seasonal average (3,206).

“While there are emerging signs that sales activity might be turning a corner, sales in May were below the ten-year seasonal average, which suggests that some buyers are still sitting on the sidelines or are being especially selective,” said Andrew Lis, GVR’s director of economics and data analytics. “On a year-to-date basis, sales in 2025 rank among the slowest to start the year in the past decade, closely mirroring the trends seen in 2019 and 2020. It’s worth noting that sales rebounded significantly in the latter half of 2020, but whether sales in 2025 might follow a similar pattern remains the million-dollar question.”

Sales of detached homes in May 2025 reached 654, a 22.7 per cent decrease from May 2024. The benchmark price for a detached home is $1,997,400. This represents a 3.2 per cent decrease from May 2024.

Sales of apartment homes reached 1,087 in May 2025, an 18.8 per cent decrease in May 2024. The benchmark price of an apartment home is $757,300. This represents a 2.4 per cent decrease from May 2024.

Attached home sales in May 2025 totalled 469, a 10.3 per cent decrease in May 2024. The benchmark price of a townhouse is $1,106,800. This represents a 3.4 per cent decrease from May 2024.

FULL REPORT HERE

NANAIMO, BC
BUYER OPTIMISM AND A BALANCED MARKET TREND IN MAY

The Vancouver Island Real Estate Board (VIREB) recorded 781 unit sales (all property types) in May 2025, down three per cent from one year ago.

“In spite of the cloud of economic uncertainty, optimism among buyers is positive. The Island continues to buck the trend of declining home sales currently experienced on the mainland,” says Yochim. “Most of our markets remain in balanced territory, with year-to-date sales on par with 2024. Available inventory of homes is above the ten-year average, providing reasonable choice for buyers.”- Jason Yochim, VIREB CEO.

FULL REPORT HEre

INTERIOR (OKANAGAN)

FULL REPORT HERE

CALGARY, AB
Thanks to steep pullbacks in the apartment condominium sector, total residential sales in Calgary eased by 17 per cent compared to May of last year. While the drop does seem significant, the 2,568 sales this month remain 11 per cent higher than long-term trends for May and improved over last month. New listings continued to rise this month compared to sales, resulting in further gains in inventory levels. However, the monthly gain in both inventory and sales prevented any significant change in the months of supply compared to April. With 2.6 months of supply, conditions are still relatively balanced.

FULL REPORT HERE

TORONTO, ON
The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) housing market experienced an improvement in affordability in May 2025 relative to the same period a year earlier. With sales down and listings up, homebuyers took advantage of increased inventory and negotiating power. “Looking at the GTA as a whole, homebuyers have certainly benefited from greater choice and improved affordability this year. However, each neighbourhood and market segment have their own nuances. Buyers considering a home purchase should connect with a REALTOR® who is knowledgeable about their preferred area and property type. In today’s market, working with a REALTOR® who brings expertise, the right tools, and a strong network is essential,” said Toronto Regional Real Estate Board President Elechia Barry-Sproule. GTA REALTORS® reported 6,244 home sales through TRREB’s MLS® System in May 2025 – down by 13.3 per cent compare

FULL REPORT HERE