What Buyers and Sellers Should Expect in 2026

As we close out another year in the Okanagan, many homeowners and future buyers are asking what 2026 might bring. After a slower and more cautious 2025, the market is showing early signs of renewed stability. Forecasts from the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) suggest that next year will offer more balanced conditions, stronger sales activity, and steady price trends. When we combine that with what we are already seeing locally in the Okanagan, 2026 is shaping up to be a year where both buyers and sellers can make confident moves.

Looking Back at 2025: A Year of Adjustment and Stabilization

Across British Columbia, 2025 was a year where buyers took their time and sellers had to be more strategic. CREA expects the provincial average price to finish around 951,154 dollars, which is a 3.1 percent decrease from 2024. I saw this caution firsthand throughout Kelowna, Lake Country, and West Kelowna, especially during the spring and early summer.

Provincial sales activity also softened in 2025. CREA projects approximately 71,361 sales, a decline of 4.1 percent from the previous year.

Yet the Okanagan did not behave like the rest of the province. According to BCREA’s October 2025 data, our region recorded a 3 percent increase in sales and a 5.8 percent rise in average price to 805,680 dollars. This made the Okanagan one of the best performing markets in British Columbia during that period. 

This reinforces what many of us already know. Buyers value the Okanagan lifestyle and remain committed to this region even when the broader provincial market cools.

Early Indicators Suggest a Stronger 2026

CREA’s forecast for 2026 aligns closely with what BCREA’s charts are already showing as we finish the year.

1. Sales are expected to rise significantly

CREA forecasts 80,342 sales across BC in 2026, which is a 12.6 percent increase from 2025.
BCREA’s seasonally adjusted sales chart shows that activity began lifting through fall 2025, which provides early support for this projection. 

This tells us that many buyers who paused in 2025 may be ready to re-enter the market.

2. Prices are expected to stabilize and grow gently

After the 2025 price adjustment, CREA expects the provincial average home price to rise to 968,141 dollars in 2026, which represents 1.8 percent growth.

For buyers, this signals a stable and predictable environment. For sellers, it suggests that well priced and well presented homes will continue to attract solid interest.

3. Inventory is leveling off and moving toward balance

BCREA’s active listings data shows that inventory climbed through early 2025 but began to stabilize by the fall. 

Locally, the Okanagan sat at 7.6 months of supply in October 2025, which is considered balanced. 

Balanced market conditions create a healthier and more comfortable environment for both sides of a transaction.

What Buyers Should Expect in 2026

If you are considering a purchase next year, the outlook is encouraging.

• More homes to choose from. Inventory has increased compared to previous years, which means greater variety across price points and neighbourhoods.

• Moderate price growth. CREA’s forecast suggests a stable pricing environment rather than sharp increases. This gives buyers space to make thoughtful decisions.

• Negotiation opportunities remain. With inventory still healthy and sales rising, buyers can expect balance. Homes that need updates or are priced above market may offer room for negotiation.

• Continuing demand for lifestyle communities. Areas such as the Lower Mission, Wilden, Lake Country, and West Kelowna continue to attract families, retirees, and out of province buyers who are drawn to the Okanagan’s climate and year round recreation.

What Sellers Should Expect in 2026

For homeowners planning to sell, the coming year may bring more favourable conditions than 2025.

• Rising sales activity means more qualified buyers. Provincial and local data both point toward stronger demand in 2026.

• Balanced conditions reward well prepared homes. With 7.6 months of supply in the Okanagan, buyers have choice but are quick to act on homes that show well and are priced properly. 

• The Okanagan continues to outperform broader BC averages. The 5.8 percent increase in local pricing during October 2025 demonstrates ongoing resilience in our region. 

• National trends support this outlook. Across Canada, many major markets experienced softer sales and prices in 2025, with forecasts calling for more balanced and active conditions in 2026. 

Sellers who list in a balanced market often benefit from motivated buyers who have been waiting for clarity and stability.

Why the Okanagan Remains a Strong Long Term Choice

The Okanagan continues to attract buyers who want quality of life, not just real estate investment. With our mild climate, outdoor recreation, schools, and growing amenities, this region offers a lifestyle that buyers across BC, Alberta, and beyond continue to seek out. Even as markets shift, demand for homes that offer this balance tends to remain steady.

My Take as a Local Realtor with More Than 19 Years of Experience

After watching the market closely throughout 2025, I am encouraged by the outlook for 2026. The indicators are pointing toward a steadier, more predictable year with healthier activity and a balanced environment that supports both buyers and sellers.

If you are planning a move this year, preparation is everything. Understanding your neighbourhood, the timing that works best for you, and the trends shaping the Okanagan market can make the process smooth and successful.

If you are thinking about buying or selling in the Okanagan, I would love to share what is happening in your specific neighbourhood and help you make your next move with confidence.