As the leaves fall and the air turns crisp across Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley, most people assume the real estate market is slowing down for winter. Traditionally, that’s true — spring is often viewed as “the best” time to list or buy a home.

But what if late fall actually offers unique opportunities for both buyers and sellers?

Let’s look at why this season may be a strategic moment to make your next move in the Lower Mainland real estate market.

Tips for Buyers in Late Fall

If you’re house-hunting before year-end, this is a great window to plan strategically.

🔍 Get pre-approved now. Lock in a mortgage rate before potential changes in 2026. Having financing ready also helps when negotiating with motivated sellers.

🕵️‍♀️ Look beyond the obvious. Some listings that have been sitting for weeks may simply need fresh marketing or minor updates — opportunities for negotiation.

📆 Think long-term. Prices may not jump dramatically in early 2025, but buying now means building equity before the next upswing forecast for 2026.

🚗 Explore emerging areas. Communities like Pitt Meadows, Mission, and parts of Surrey are offering better value per square foot than Vancouver proper — often with better lifestyle amenities and transit expansion on the way.

Tips for Sellers This Season

Even with cooler weather, there are plenty of ways to make your listing shine.

🍁 Focus on warmth and lighting. With shorter days, make sure every room feels bright and inviting. Use warm lighting and highlight cozy features — fireplaces, reading nooks, radiant heating, etc.

🍂 Lean into seasonal staging. A tasteful fall wreath, neutral throws, or candles can make your home feel welcoming without overdoing it.

🏡 Keep curb appeal in check. Rake leaves, clean gutters, and add simple porch lighting. Even small details count when daylight fades early.

💡 Be strategic on pricing. Overpricing in this market can cause your listing to sit too long. Look at comparable sales from the past 60–90 days, not last spring’s peak numbers.

📸 Invest in professional photos. Low natural light can make DIY photos look dull. Professional photographers can capture the cozy atmosphere of fall in its best light — literally.

Thinking about buying or selling before the new year? Reach out for a personalized market analysis of your neighbourhood — from Vancouver and Burnaby to Langley and Abbotsford. Understanding your local data is key to making the right move in today’s market.

Let’s plan your next step before the rest of the market wakes up.