According to the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver, “In June, home sale and listing activity have returned to more historically typical levels.” Meaning that the housing market has become more active for both buyers and sellers since the provincial government declared a state of emergency in March due to the pandemic.  

Safety protocols such as wearing gloves and masks during showings, increased sanitization, and enforcing social distancing have helped increase buyer and seller safety and comfortability. The RECBC recommends that real estate professionals should encourage virtual showings. As well as schedule viewings and use pre-registration to limit the number of individuals in the home.

Each month after the state of emergency was declared in British Columbia, the demand has increased steadily. From April – June 2020, Metro Vancouver listings have gone up by 144%.

(Photo Credit: Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver, 2020)