As 2025 comes to a close, Vancouver Island homeowners are taking a closer look at how the market performed over the past year — and what those trends might mean moving forward.
Rather than dramatic shifts, 2025 was defined by resilience, balance, and thoughtful decision-making. Home values held steady across much of the Island, and while sales activity cooled slightly in certain segments, pricing remained largely stable.
How the Vancouver Island Market Performed in 2025
In 2025, the Vancouver Island real estate market demonstrated resilience and balance, with annual activity showing slightly higher total sales compared to 2024 and relatively stable pricing across housing types.
The Vancouver Island Real Estate Board (VIREB) reported roughly 7,620 unit sales in 2025, slightly higher than the approximately 7,473 units sold in 2024, reflecting moderate year‑over‑year growth in overall transaction volume.
While fourth-quarter sales were somewhat softer, with fewer transactions in the detached, townhouse, and apartment segments year-over-year, the median price for single detached homes saw modest gains, moving to around $813,200 in Q4‑2025 from $807,500 a year earlier, even as townhouses and condos experienced minor price adjustments.
Inventory conditions shifted modestly over the year, with active listings generally increasing, supporting a more balanced market where neither buyers nor sellers dominated. In smaller communities on the Island, assessment values showed a range of outcomes, with many areas seeing minimal changes (-5% to +5%) in 2025 property assessments, though pockets like Tahsis experienced stronger valuation increases.
Overall, Vancouver Island’s 2025 housing market combined stable pricing trends with balanced supply and demand, allowing homes to sell within a reasonable market context and providing a foundation for localized performance insights across the region.
A Closer Look at Regional Trends
While overall trends were consistent, performance varied slightly depending on location.
Nanaimo continued to serve as a central hub, supported by employment growth and steady demand. Home values in the area showed moderate appreciation, particularly for well-maintained and well-located properties.
In Parksville and Qualicum Beach, limited inventory and lifestyle appeal helped support higher price points, even as buyer activity became more selective.
The Comox Valley stood out as one of the stronger performers in 2025, benefiting from population growth and long-term buyer confidence in the area.
Communities in the Cowichan Valley experienced balanced conditions, with steady demand and moderate price movement throughout the year.
In Port Alberni, affordability remained a key driver. While price growth was more gradual, stability continued to attract buyers looking for value within the Island market.
What Defined the 2025 Market
One of the biggest changes homeowners noticed in 2025 was the shift in pace:
- Homes took slightly longer to sell
- Buyers were more discerning
- Pricing strategy became increasingly important
- Presentation and condition played a larger role
These conditions rewarded sellers who were prepared and priced appropriately, while giving buyers more breathing room than in previous years.
What This Means for Vancouver Island Homeowners
For homeowners, 2025 reinforced an important takeaway: local market knowledge matters more than ever.
Island-wide averages only tell part of the story. Neighbourhood trends, property type, and timing all played a role in how individual homes performed. Understanding your specific market and neighborhood performance in 2025 is key to making informed decisions.
Looking Ahead
As we move into 2026, Vancouver Island appears positioned for continued stability rather than sharp swings. Balanced conditions often create opportunities for both buyers and sellers who plan carefully and stay informed.
If you’re curious about how your home performed in 2025 — or how it’s positioned heading into the new year — a personalized review can provide clarity.
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