Dreaming of owning property in Canada? Whether it’s a big family home in the suburbs or a condo with mountain views, staying on top of 2025’s real estate trends is a must. This isn’t just about surface-level information; it’s about understanding the specific market conditions. Today, we’re comparing Markham and Vancouver, two of Canada’s busiest real estate areas, each with unique opportunities and challenges.
This guide offers a comparison to help you navigate the Markham vs. Vancouver property landscape. Smart real estate investment is all about strategy, and we’re here to give you the insights you need. Our goal? To help you find your ideal property and position our services as your trusted advisor.
Market Overview: Key Factors Shaping the Real Estate Scene
Let’s get started by exploring the key factors and real estate market trends.
Markham Real Estate Trends
Markham, north of Toronto, is on the upswing and is one of the real estate investment locations in Canada. Urban development, solid infrastructure, and proximity to Toronto’s job market, shopping, and entertainment are all major factors. This means more investment, more jobs, and population growth. Families love Markham for its kid-friendly vibe, good schools, and growing job market. The Markham real estate market looks promising in 2025. As new developments continue to emerge, there is a significant demand for housing in this region.
- Markham is generally experiencing a balanced real estate market.
- Renovations of older properties are popular.
- Sustainable building and multi-generational living are on the rise.
- Smart homes and outdoor living spaces are in high demand.
- Factors influencing the market include shifts in the proportions of home types sold and overall changes in home values.
Vancouver Real Estate Trends
Vancouver’s a different story. The real estate market in Vancouver is defined by strong and consistent demand. A big driver? Limited housing supply. Vancouver’s geography limits expansion. Also, there’s persistent international investment. While good for the economy overall, Vancouver faces ongoing affordability challenges, especially as demand outpaces supply and international investment fuels a competitive market. Here is the summary of the main trends.
- Increased activity from first-time and move-up buyers.
- Condo market is seeing a potential comeback, offering more options for buyers.
- Expectations of a modest increase in property values, potentially around 7%.
- Forecasts of a significant rise in sales volume, possibly up to 20%.
- Interest rate fluctuations play a crucial role in market dynamics.
- Population growth and immigration are impacting demand.
- Government regulatory changes influencing market behaviour.
- Housing supply is continuing to be a major factor.
- Neighbourhoods like Main, Mount Pleasant, and Kitsilano are expected to remain highly desirable.
Price Trends and Affordability: How the Cost of Homes Differs in 2025
Price is a critical factor for homebuyers in 2025, especially when comparing the Markham vs. Vancouver markets.
Markham
Markham property prices are expected to keep going up in 2025. Like the rest of the GTA, housing shortages are driving demand and pushing median home prices higher. This is especially true for properties near amenities and public transit.
- Median sales prices are fluctuating, with information showing values around the $1.1M to $1.2M range. Detached houses remain a significant portion of sales, followed by condos and townhouses.
- The rental market is also active, with a significant portion of rentals being condos. Median rent prices are around $2,950.
Vancouver
There is a significant disparity in affordability between Vancouver and other Canadian cities, especially in the downtown area. In order to find more cheap choices in Vancouver, buyers can concentrate on developing neighborhoods or think about purchasing smaller homes like townhouses or condominiums.
The average home price in Greater Vancouver is $1,208,415, down 3.6% from last year and 5.3% from the previous month. In January 2024, the benchmark price in Metro Vancouver was $1,173,000, a 0.5% annual increase and a slight 0.1% monthly rise. While Vancouver’s benchmark price has grown 64% over the past decade, it’s still 6.9% lower than the peak of $1,259,900 in April 2022. Detached homes dropped by 1.1% to $2.10M, attached homes fell 1.1% to $1.22M, and condos decreased by 1.3% to $806K. As of February 28, 2025, the lowest mortgage rate is 3.89% for a 3-Year Fixed.
Housing Supply and Demand: The Impact of Inventory on Homebuyers
Inventory levels affect market competition. Less supply usually means more competition and, potentially, higher prices. Here’s what to expect in 2025:
Markham
Markham’s housing supply is growing! New developments are increasing, including those focused on “New Urbanism” and suburban expansion. This creates good opportunities for homebuyers in Markham.
Vancouver
With few new constructions in regions with high demand, home availability in Vancouver is still a significant problem. Bidding has become intense as a result, particularly for residences in coveted neighborhoods. Because availability is still limited, buyers in Vancouver will need to move fast once they discover a house that suits their criteria.
Interest Rates and Financing: How Mortgage Trends Will Affect Homebuyers in 2025
Property market predictions in 2025 show interest rates will impact both markets significantly.
Impact of Interest Rates
Interest rate fluctuations will affect mortgage affordability in both Markham and Vancouver, and price changes can affect a buyer’s finances. You must adjust your financial plan. Reviewing your property investment strategies in a volatile market is crucial.
Markham
With several financial institutions providing enticing offers for homeowners, mortgage rates in Markham are probably going to stay competitive. Homebuyers may get pre-approved and get financing at competitive rates with the help of local mortgage brokers and real estate professionals. Buyers may experience bidding wars as the market heats up, so knowing your financing choices is crucial to staying competitive.
Vancouver
The financing environment for homeowners in Vancouver will be more difficult. It is more challenging for purchasers to obtain reasonable mortgages due to the city’s high real estate prices. Buyers can, however, find financing options with professional assistance, such as using the equity in their current home or looking for mortgage options specific to expensive regions.
Demographic and Lifestyle Trends: What Homebuyers Are Looking For
What do you see in the homes of home buyers? Market trends are as different as the buyers themselves.
Markham
Markham’s demographics are driven by families, and demand for family homes is high. Families often lean toward suburban living due to proximity to the Toronto job market.
Vancouver
Vancouver is different. With a higher concentration of young professionals and downsizers, there is high demand for condos and smaller homes.
Government Policies and Regulations: How Local Legislation Impacts Homebuyers
Government regulations at every level can greatly affect real estate.
Markham
In the GTA, property tax changes and land transfer tax adjustments may influence homebuyers’ decisions. It is crucial for potential buyers to stay updated on any new policies that could affect their ability to purchase a home.
Vancouver
Vancouver has implemented various measures to cool its overheated market, such as the foreign buyers tax, speculation tax, and vacancy tax. These policies have impacted non-resident buyers and are part of Vancouver’s broader efforts to address affordability issues. Homebuyers need to be aware of these regulations to ensure compliance and make informed purchasing decisions.
Investment Opportunities: Where Should Homebuyers Focus Their Attention in 2025?
Where to put your money?
Markham
Markham has encouraging investment prospects, especially in new urban projects and burgeoning neighborhoods. Buyers should concentrate on places with excellent infrastructural development and future possibilities as the city grows.
Vancouver
Outside of the city center, in neighborhoods like East Vancouver and the North Shore, Vancouver’s real estate market provides long-term value. Demand has grown in these neighborhoods, and as they continue to grow, they present excellent investment opportunities for those wishing to make long-term real estate investments.
Although Markham provides more reasonably priced possibilities in outlying areas, chances are available in Vancouver’s competitive market for individuals who are prepared to overcome its obstacles.
Depending on their objectives and financial constraints, both markets provide distinct alternatives for 2025 purchasers. Knowing these important patterns is crucial whether you’re searching for a real estate investment in a world-class metropolis or a family home in a developing suburb.
