With all the political tensions in the United States we thought it timely to consider how US elections, court rulings, protests, and/or policy shifts can affect our local real estate market. 

While Canada has its own economic drivers, our housing market does not operate in isolation. The U.S. is our largest trading partner, our closest cultural influence, and a dominant force in global financial markets. Political instability south of the border ripples straight into Canadian housing markets but the impact isn’t always economic. It’s psychological. 

Business Confidence 

Because Canada’s economy is tightly tied to U.S. trade and capital markets, uncertainty can dampen business confidence — which then affects employment, housing and lending.  If markets fear instability investors may move money into bonds (lowering yields) or demand higher yields due to risk. 

Lender Confidence

U.S. political unrest indirectly influences bond yields, central bank messaging, and inflation expectations. While the Bank of Canada sets domestic rates independently, global financial pressure can influence policy tone.  Either scenario influences mortgage rates — which directly affects affordability and consumer psychology.

Buyer Confidence

When headlines are dominated by instability, buyers tend to pause. Even if their personal finances haven’t changed, uncertainty makes people more conservative.  We see this play out as buyers delaying purchase decisions, avoiding bidding wars and offering below asking. 

In uncertain or transitional markets: 

    •    Buyers keep more cash on hand 

    •    Scrutinize the value or small and large purchases more closely

    •    Homes priced above the most recent sales in the area sit longer

    •    Negotiations (and emotions) intensify

In robust markets like Surrey and White Rock, shifts in buyer psychology can noticeably cool activity.

Investor Confidence 

Investors tend to be globally aware and market sensitive. If U.S. political unrest impacts global equities or bond markets, this category of buyers may redirect capital or sit on the sidelines temporarily.

Seller Confidence 

Sellers are deeply influenced by media tone. If news cycles feel chaotic, potential sellers tend to wait until things appear more settled - especially those looking to downsize who are often selling their largest asset.  

Further, many sellers are also buyers.  If they’re unsure about broader economic conditions, they delay selling — especially if upgrading means taking on larger debt. 

American political unrest typically causes short-term confidence swings, not long-term structural damage, unless broader global recessionary forces are triggered. The real driver in real estate is perception. Housing is emotional.  Confidence is momentum. Momentum shapes markets. 

There is however opportunity in this “wait and see” environment. 

For sellers: equity gain consideration paired with patience, strategic pricing and presentation can get your home sold in a short amount of time for a solid price. 

For buyers: Uncertainty reduces competition providing you with time to consider options and creates leverage in negotiations. 

Regardless of conditions, informed clients make stronger real estate decisions.

We can help. That’s what we do!

Photo by Stefano Pollio on Unsplash

Chat GPT was used to support conceptualizing the above. All final edits and conclusions are our own.

Dear clients, neighbors, and friends,

Spring is almost here and if you’re a homeowner thinking about selling, you’re not alone. Traditionally, spring has always been one of the busiest and most rewarding seasons to list a home and while the 2026 market may look different from the frenzied pace of past years, there are still powerful reasons to feel confident about selling this season.

Here are five reasons to sell your home this spring …

1. Spring demand is real:  Seasonality matters. Spring consistently brings more foot traffic and stronger buyer engagement.  Longer days, improved weather, and the desire to move before summer drive increased buyer activity every year. Families aiming to move before the next school year begin their search now.  Depending on the weather, 2026 may start sooner rather than later. Regardless of the start, spring remains the strongest seasonal window in real estate.

2. Inventory is healthy:  More sellers may enter the market in spring however inventory levels in many markets remain below pre-pandemic norms.  That means well-priced homes still stand out and sell successfully.  Further,  more balanced conditions lead to more sustainable markets and a less stressful transaction for all.

3. Equity gains are significant:  Over the past several years homeowners have built significant equity. Even with price growth stabilizing in the last few years many sellers are sitting on strong equity gains.  Gains vary from region to region, but according to the Fraser Valley MLS Home price index release in January; Surrey, Sullivan/Panorama, South Surrey and White Rock have all seen 18% to 21% value growth over the last five years. Upsizing, downsizing, or relocating equity equals leverage.

4. Serious buyers are a thing:  Although some have to sell first, today’s buyers aren’t window-shopping. Higher borrowing costs mean those actively touring homes are motivated.  When they find the right home, at a fair price, they are prepared to act.

5. You are in control:  You can’t control interest rates, inflation, or the noise from the U.S. but you can control pricing, preparation and timing. Sellers who approach the market strategically are still achieving excellent outcomes.

 For those already on the market …

If your home is already listed and market response has been lack-lustre you might be wondering what has changed. 

Although global economic factors are in flux the truth is today’s market is more balanced.  During the height of the pandemic-era boom, historically low rates fuelled intense competition, now buyers are more selective, more cautious, and taking more time with their decisions.  Life events like job relocations, growing families, and downsizing don’t pause because of interest rates. What has changed is urgency. This change is not bad but it does require those of us selling a home today to adjust our expectations.  

If your home is priced correctly and presented well, it will attract attention but, in most cases, the process will take longer then in years past.

So, hang in there friends!

Even if showings are slower than expected the buyer who truly needs your home is out there. Patience will protect your negotiating power and help you avoid making reactive decisions.  Spring 2026 may not look like the hyper-competitive market of a few years ago but that’s okay. Real estate markets evolve but the fundamentals remain the same. 

If you’re thinking about making a move this spring or looking to reposition your listing, now is the time to plan strategically and step forward with clarity.

We can help.

Jenn & Colin

We have just listed this fully updated 4 bed and bath Foxridge built home in Panorama Hills.

Bright airy rooms, vaulted ceilings, great room plan on the main, huge primary suite and kids rooms w/ensuite baths on the upper, plus brand new private access 1 bed in-law suite in basement.

Updates are many; high end flooring and lighting top to bottom, white shaker kitchen with stone countertops, WOLF gas range, walk in pantry, built in coffee bar and wine fridge, stone feature wall with linear fireplace and built in shelving, power blinds, surround sound system, heat pump/AC plus inground sprinklers and storage shed.

Multiple car parking w/full size dbl garage, its pad plus private e-gate access to long side drive perfect for rec or work vehicles. Fully fenced, private yard, lane access.

Walk to local schools, parks, YMCA and amenities.  New Snokomish French Immersion Elementrary Catchment!

14782 59th Ave is asking $1,589,900 and open this Saturday Feb 7 from 2-4pm.

View images, floor plan and specs HERE 

We have just listed this well cared for 4 bed and bath, 2 story, cul-de-sac home in Ocean Parks Amble Greene neighbourhood. 

Almost 3,000sqft of immaculate living space on a 13,547sqft lot. The main level offers formal living/dining space, an open plan at back with bright solarium and family room overlooking the landscaped back yard, perfect for family hang outs and entertaining.

Bonus flex room and 4th bedroom also on the main level. Upper rooms include primary suite, ensuite bath and tons of closet space plus 2 more generous size bedrooms.

Huge patio area at back plus a smaller patio off kitchen perfect for outdoor kitchen and bbq. Full size double car garage with deep parking pad.

Perfectly situated in a private, parklike setting but only minutes to the amenities of Ocean Park Village, local library, local schools, easy access parks and beaches.

13197 Amble Greene Close is asking $1,974,900 and is open this Sunday Feb 1 from 2-4pm

View images, video, specs and floor plan HERE

IS NOW OPEN FOR REGISTRATION!

Saturday May 23, 2026 (rain or shine)
9:00 am – 1:00 pm.

Typically 30-60 families in Surreys Sullivan Panorama area host a sale at this event,

If your home is located between 64th Ave / 56th Ave and 156th St / 144th St you can participate too!

All promotions, posts and advertising will be managed by us leading up to the sale.  In addition, we will install hundreds of directional arrows and signs leading buyers to your sale, early morning the day of the event. 

All that is required from you is to have your sale ready to go by 9:00am on the day of the event.

Please visit our garage sale page for all you need to know to register your home …

LEARN MORE or REGISTER HERE

and …

WATCH FOR UPDATES ON OUR FACEBOOK PAGE

Please note, to have your home noted on our map / address list and in all promotion leading up to the event you must register before SUNDAY MAY 17.

See ya out there Sullivan.  COMMUNITY, Its what we do.

Happy New Year Clients, Friends and Neighbours!

As we enter 2026 the local real estate market continues to evolve. We thought it timely to write a post recapping recent data helping to inform those looking to sell this year.  
 
If you had a home listed in 2025 it’s likely you know it was one of the slowest years in decades for real estate sales  in the Fraser Valley.  Down 16 percent when compared to 2024.
 
Prices have softened, but not dramatically, Depending on where your live in  the valley, average sale prices are down 6 to 14 per cent.  Zoom out however and we see home prices down 24 per cent overall since March of 2022. 
 
Inventory levels climbed to their highest point in over 40 years. This meant sellers had to focus on their listings price and presentation more than ever before!
 
But that’s all in the past.  Let’s look to the future! (with an optimistic eye)

If you or someone you know has been thinking of selling in 2026 here are 3 tips to help navigate this market with confidence:

1. The stars are overrated. Don’t reach for the pricing peak. Get competitive. Better yet, start competitive. With pricing on a steady down curve realistic, attractive pricing is your best friend. Overpricing can cost weeks of wasted time or worse, cause your listing to become last years news. 

2. Make a great first impression. Don’t wait for buyer feedback. Upgrade your home with features a buyer can really sink their teeth into like a mortgage helper in the basement or a new kitchen or bathroom. If cash is tight get your homes presentation better than it has ever been before. And, do all this before launching your listing. 

3. Good vibes only. Unlike the rapid sales and multiple offers of years past. Homes take longer to sell. Offers are low and most buyers are stretching financially to make it happen. Bring your most patient, flexible, and sturdy self to the table. 

An optimistic lens helps us see we are in a time of transition not collapse and there are opportunities for both sides. Prices aren’t escalating and the 2026 buyers know it, but with the right mindset and strategy happy sellers are still a thing!
 
So get yourself (or your neighbour) connected with an area expert. One who can interpret hyper local trends and guide you through these quiet conditions.

If you are in Surrey, South Surrey, White Rock or the communities that border us, we can help.  
 
Read our past client reviews HERE and book your home evaluation HERE  

Jenn & Colin

Photo by Oliver Roos on Unsplash

After lofty expectations heading into this year, the Surrey / White Rock housing market has disappointed with activity falling steadily throughout the year making 2025 the third consecutive year of below average sales.

Surrey remains firmly entrenched in a buyer’s market but unfortunately easing prices and abundant inventory have not been enough to help buyers overcome challenges around affordability, economic pressures and tightened lending conditions. 

However, after three years of less than cheerful conditions its likely Santa will deliver a 2026 Real Estate Recovery. The elves are hard at work sprinkling sleighfuls of tinsel and cheer, lining up the market forces that will be needed to make a strong, steady, housing market recovery.

And Its not just the elves that are optimistic. 

Analysts are expecting sales to increase due to pent-up demand, improving buyer sentiment, and infrastructure-led growth.  Home prices are expected to make a moderate increase — not a runaway boom, but a healthy, sustainable rise.  Investment opportunities in condos and rental properties will continue.  Lastly, improved affordability and increasing supply is expected to spur on first time home buyers who have been waiting for softer pricing, more options and better leverage.

Let’s take a closer look …

1. Market Fundamentals: Stabilization & Recovery

According to the BCREA, 2026 is projected to bring a rebound in home sales across British Columbia, with MLS residential sales rising significantly.  As inventories stabilize (they have been elevated in 2025, especially in the Fraser Valley / Surrey region)  , the market could shift from a buyer’s market toward a more balanced territory, reducing downward pricing pressure.

2. Moderate Price Growth

With rising buyer confidence and improving macroeconomic conditions, average home prices in BC are forecast to increase 4 per cent in 2026 according to BCREA projections.  For Surrey specifically, this could translate into modest “catch-up” growth, particularly in segments like condos and townhomes, which have seen more inventory but also strong long-term demand.

3. Stronger Demand Driven by Transit & Development

The expansion of the Surrey–Langley SkyTrain is a powerful catalyst. As transit infrastructure grows, areas along the transit corridor will likely become more desirable, driving demand for high-density housing such as condos and mid/high-rise developments.  Mixed-use and transit-oriented developments are already in the pipeline, giving Surrey a long runway for population growth, densification, and increasing property values in the right nodes.

4. More Choices for Buyers & First-Time Homeowners

The surge in listings in 2025 (especially in Surrey) has given buyers more options.  For first-time buyers in particular, 2026 could be a sweet spot: with more inventory, reasonable negotiation power, and potentially stabilizing or slightly improving mortgage rates (depending on broader economic conditions), they might find favourable entry points in townhomes or condos. Some local forecasts specifically suggest 4–6% appreciation for mid-range condos/townhomes in Surrey, driven by transit and development momentum.  

5. Rental Market Strength & Purpose-Built Rentals

Surrey’s 2025 Housing Needs Report shows ongoing growth in purpose-built rental stock.  As new rental units come online—especially near transit corridors—the rental market could remain tight, supporting valuation in investor-owned multifamily units. For investors, the combination of rising rents, growing demand from renters, and long-term capital appreciation makes Surrey an appealing play.

6. Balanced Risk, But a Strong Upside Tilt

While there are risks (e.g., higher-than-expected interest rates, macroeconomic shocks), in this optimistic scenario those risks don’t derail recovery. Instead, Surrey benefits from a “soft landing”: not a speculative boom, but a sustainable, steady rebound. Sellers who price strategically (especially in development areas) may see good interest. Buyers who act in 2026 may lock in good value before potential further growth in the latter half of the decade.

If you are curious how the above affects your real estate goals in the new year.  Moving up, down or sideways, we can help you craft a realistic Christmas wish list.
Book your free, no obligation home evaluation now.
 
Jenn & Colin

We have just listed this well cared for 3 level home in Sullivan Ridge.  Walk to local schools, parks, YMCA and Sullivan / Panorama shops and amenities.

6 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, over 3,100sq ft of living space including partial above ground daylight basement with self contained suite.

Airy open spaces throughout with home office/flex room at front, large great room w/kitchen at back opens onto a west facing 14x16 sundeck and fully fenced yard.

Generous size upper level rooms include primary suite/ensuite bath with his/her sinks, soaker tub and walk in closet plus 3 additional bedrooms perfect for a family with young kids.

Daylight basement suite is fully finished with separate entry, private laundry and 9x12 patio area, can be configured as 1 or 2 bed unit.

Double car garage with deep pad for multiple cars and/or rec vehicles.

6093 145a St is asking $1,449,900 and showing by appt only.

View full image gallery, video, floor plan and specs HERE