Understanding the Best Move-Up Opportunity in Today’s Market

For growing families in Vancouver and Burnaby, the most common and practical upgrade path is:

👉 Condo to townhome

This move provides:

• More living space

• Better separation for families

• Access to outdoor areas

• Long-term lifestyle stability

In 2026, this segment of the market is showing clear signs of opportunity, supported by recent data.

📊 March 2026 Market Data: Townhome Inventory Is Rising

Vancouver East Townhome Market (March 2026)

According to the latest market report:

• Active townhome listings increased by 36% year-over-year

• Benchmark prices decreased by approximately 9% year-over-year

• Sales activity declined slightly

👉 This indicates a shift toward more supply and reduced buyer competition

Burnaby South Townhome Market (March 2026)

• Active listings increased by 53% year-over-year

• Sales volume decreased significantly

• Benchmark prices declined by approximately 5% year-over-year

👉 This is a strong indicator of a more balanced or buyer-favourable market

📈 What Increased Townhome Inventory Means for Buyers

1. More Selection

Buyers can now compare:

• Layouts

• Locations

• Price points

• School catchments

Without needing to act immediately.

2. Reduced Competition

With more listings and fewer sales:

• Fewer bidding wars

• Less pressure to waive subjects

• More time for due diligence

3. Greater Negotiation Leverage

Higher inventory typically leads to:

• Price flexibility

• Subject-to-offer conditions (financing, inspection)

• Seller concessions

💰 Condo vs Townhome Pricing in 2026

Typical Price Ranges (Vancouver East & Burnaby South)

• Condos: ~$650,000 – $800,000

• Townhomes: ~$950,000 – $1,100,000

While the price gap still exists, current market conditions are improving:

• Townhome prices have softened

• Condo values have remained relatively stable

• Negotiation opportunities have increased

👉 Result: A more achievable upgrade path for families

⏱️ Market Timing vs Market Conditions

A key insight for 2026:

The opportunity is not about perfectly timing the market —
it’s about recognizing favourable conditions within a specific segment.

In the condo-to-townhome segment:

• Supply is increasing

• Demand is stabilizing

• Pricing is adjusting

This combination is what creates move-up opportunities.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Who Should Consider Upsizing Now?

This market is particularly relevant for:

• Families outgrowing a 1–2 bedroom condo

• Buyers planning a move within the next 1–3 years

• Owners with built-up equity

• Clients prioritizing long-term lifestyle over short-term speculation

🧠 Expert Insight: 20+ Years of Helping Families Upsize

Our team has specialized in helping families transition from condos to townhomes and detached homes in Vancouver and Burnaby for over 20 years.

We’ve worked through:

• High-pressure seller markets

• Balanced markets

• Buyer-favourable conditions

What stands out in 2026 is:

👉 A rare alignment of increased inventory + reduced competition + price flexibility

These conditions historically create some of the best move-up opportunities for families.

🧭 Strategic Approach to Upsizing in 2026

Rather than asking “Is now the perfect time?”, a better approach is:

👉 “Is there a strong opportunity for our specific situation right now?”

A structured plan should include:

1. Accurate valuation of your current condo

2. Clear understanding of upgrade budget

3. Identification of target neighbourhoods

4. Timing strategy for buying and selling

🏁 Conclusion: A Window of Opportunity for Condo Owners

The data from March 2026 shows a clear trend:

• Townhome inventory is rising significantly

• Buyer competition has eased

• Pricing has softened modestly

For families considering a move:

👉 The condo-to-townhome transition is more achievable today than it has been in recent years.

📩 Work With Local Move-Up Specialists

If you’re considering upsizing in Vancouver or Burnaby, we can help you:

• Understand your home’s current value

• Identify realistic townhome options

• Build a strategy to bridge the gap

Brad & Theo
Vancouver & Burnaby Real Estate
Move-Up + Family Specialists