Deciding when to buy a home is as much about your life as it is about market timing. In the Victoria area, many would be buyers are currently asking whether to act now or hold off until 2026. Forecasts suggest some important shifts, but the right answer always depends on your personal timeline and finances.
Market outlooks for 2026 point to slightly higher sales and more listings across British Columbia, including Greater Victoria, as pent up demand and improved confidence bring more people back into the market. Price growth is expected to be modest, with some national forecasts even calling for small average price declines in selected regions before conditions stabilize and then rebound.
Waiting could offer upsides. More inventory might mean a better selection of homes, fewer intense bidding situations, and a bit more negotiating room in certain segments. If interest rates trend lower later in 2026, your monthly payment on the same purchase price could become more comfortable.
On the other hand, buying sooner can make sense if you find a home that fits your life and budget today, especially if you are outgrowing your current place or paying high rent. A home purchased in a slower market can sometimes be upgraded through renovations, with value realized when conditions strengthen. For buyers who plan to stay put for several years, small short term price fluctuations matter less than locking in a property that truly suits your needs.
A structured conversation about timing should consider several factors. Your current housing situation, job stability, savings, tolerance for risk, and desired neighbourhoods all contribute to the decision. Reviewing specific scenarios with a local Realtor and mortgage professional can show you what buying today looks like versus waiting a year in practical terms rather than headlines.
If you are wrestling with this question, there is real value in getting tailored advice rather than trying to solve it alone. Reach out to walk through your options, run the numbers, and build a plan that respects both the market and your goals.
