From Concerts on the Grass to Astronomy club, Farmer’s Markets & ‘Nerd Nights’, the coast always has great activities on the roster. Check out the next month of events and get togethers here to learn more.
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Quick Tips for Home Sellers Series | 5 Things a Buyer Will Immediately Notice About a Home
Tips to sell your home faster
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Is the Sunshine Coast Greater Vancouver’s Most Affordable Area?
For many buyers navigating the Greater Vancouver real estate market (and beyond), affordability is continually one of the biggest challenges. Limited inventory, high demand, and rising prices have made it increasingly difficult to find a home that offers both lifestyle and long-term value.
The Sunshine Coast has emerged as Greater Vancouver’s most affordable area and a compelling alternative for home buyers seeking quality of life as well as great value.
Located just a short ferry ride from Vancouver, the Sunshine Coast offers a unique combination of coastal living, community connection, and relative affordability—making it one of the most accessible entry points into the broader Greater Vancouver housing market.
What Makes the Sunshine Coast So Appealing to Buyers
More value for your budget
Buyers can often secure a detached home with land, privacy, or even ocean views for the price of a condo or townhouse in Vancouver.
A true West Coast lifestyle
Access to beaches, hiking trails, and outdoor recreation is part of everyday life, offering a slower, more balanced pace without giving up essential services.
Strong community feel
Many buyers are drawn to the Coast for its sense of connection, local culture, and welcoming atmosphere.
Growing appeal for remote workers and creatives
With more flexible work options, the Sunshine Coast has become increasingly attractive to those seeking both lifestyle and productivity.
Proximity to Vancouver
Regular ferry access allows homeowners to stay connected to the city while enjoying a distinctly different living environment.
Sunshine Coast vs Greater Vancouver: A Cost Comparison
While prices vary depending on property type and location, the general difference is significant:
- Vancouver (East Side / West Side): $1.5M – $2.5M+ for detached homes
- North Vancouver: $1.6M – $2.3M+
- Burnaby / Tri-Cities: $1.3M – $2M
- Sunshine Coast (Gibsons / Sechelt): approximately $800K – $1.2M
What does this mean for buyers? In many cases, buyers are able to transition from strata living in the city to detached homes with outdoor space on the Sunshine Coast.
For example; it’s not uncommon for buyers from the city to realize that they can upgrade from a 2 bedroom apartment downtown to a detached 3 bedroom home with a lovely private yard for the same price. Depending on your goals, that is a total game changer.
Is the Sunshine Coast the Right Fit for You?
If you are craving a slower, more laid back, nature centric focused way of life, the coast might be just the thing for you. Parks, beaches and trails at your doorstep mean plenty of daily adventure. Independently owned businesses connect neighbours to their community and keep dollars circulating locally and food grown in farms dotting the coastline offer a healthy, sustainable way to fill the table. Our family was drawn to the coast not just for it’s affordability & beauty but the way this lifestyle allows us to pursue our hobbies and extracurricular activities. Spending less time fighting traffic means more time with friends or in the art studio and that makes a world of difference.
While the Sunshine Coast offers exceptional value within the Greater Vancouver real estate market, every buyer’s needs and lifestyle are different. Understanding how this market aligns with your goals, timeline, and expectations is an important first step.
If you’re considering a move, or simply want to explore what’s possible within your budget, I’d be happy to help guide you through the process.
Call to Action
If you’re curious about buying on the Sunshine Coast, the best place to start is with a clear understanding of the market, the buying process, and what to expect.
You can request my Sunshine Coast Home Buyer’s Guide, which includes:
- Current market insights
- Buying process specific to the Coast
- Key considerations (including ferry access, services, and property types)
- Tips to help you compete in a competitive market
Or, if you prefer a more personalized approach, feel free to reach out directly. I’m always happy to have a conversation, answer questions, and help you determine whether the Sunshine Coast is the right move for you.
N
About Nico:
Nicole (Nico) Arnett is an award-winning Sunshine Coast Realtor serving Gibsons, Sechelt, Roberts Creek, and surrounding communities on BC’s Sunshine Coast. Ranked in the Top 1% of all Greater Vancouver Realtors for sales volume in 2024 and 2025, Nico brings extensive, day-to-day experience navigating one of Canada’s most competitive real estate markets.
As a recipient of RE/MAX Platinum Club and Hall of Fame Awards, she combines proven results with a strategic, client-focused approach to buying and selling real estate on the Sunshine Coast.
Beyond real estate, Nico is deeply connected to the local community. She actively supports Sunshine Coast initiatives as a volunteer, event sponsor, and PAC member, and is passionate about supporting local businesses. When she’s not working with clients, you’ll find her running local trails, spending time with her family, or in the pottery studio.
Nico lives in Gibsons, BC, and is proud to help clients find not just a home—but a lifestyle on the Sunshine Coast.
It’s a Buyer’s Party, So Where Is Everyone?
On BC’s Sunshine Coast, we’re in one of the strongest buyer’s markets we’ve seen in years. Detached home sales were down 7% this March compared to last year, listings are up 9% and interest rates have come down significantly after the wave of 2022/23 increases.
That kind of supply-and-demand imbalance plus the gorgeous sunny weather usually sparks significant buyer activity—but many are still sitting on the sidelines. So, what’s holding people back?
In short: pricing.
While the market has shifted, many sellers are still holding onto optimistic expectations. And buyers are paying attention. They’re watching the market closely—and when a listing hits the right price for current conditions, it’s game on. We’re seeing multiple offers, subject-free deals, even cash buyers—all signs that demand is there when the value lines up. Yet many homes on the market continue to sit, with almost 25% of the total listings being on the market for 90 days or more! And that is where opportunity happens.
So what should focused buyers do right now to capitalize on these conditions?
✅ Talk to your agent to understand where the real value is showing up.
✅ Refresh your mortgage pre-approval so you’re ready to move fast for the right opportunity.
✅ Take a risk don’t ignore the homes with higher days on the market. Check these listings out and approach the sellers with a well thought out, below ask offer if the home suits your needs
✅ Price your own property for today’s market if you’re planning a simultaneous sale/ purchase.
The opportunity is real and these markets are the ones that buyers wish for who didn’t make the move—but timing, preparation, and good advice will make all the difference.
Let’s talk strategy. I’m here to help you take the next step with clarity and confidence.
Market Update | Dec. 10th – Dec 16th
Activity picked up this week, with sales from Dec. 10th–16th pushing the sales-to-list ratio back down to 10%, reaffirming it as a buyer’s market. There was also a slight increase in new listings, totaling 23, but overall, the market reflects the usual seasonal decline in available homes.
Coastal Market Recap
- Sales this week: 11 (7 detached, 3 attached, 1 land)
- Sales location: Pender Harbour: 0, Halfmoon Bay: 0, Sechelt 9, Roberts Creek 1, Gibsons 1
- New Listings: 23 (Detached 18, Attached 2, Land 3)
- Total Listings: 480 (Detached 306, Attached 63, Land 111)
- Sales to Listing Ratio: 10% (top end of buyers market conditions)
- Average Days on the Market: 84
- Average Price: $933,000
If you’re considering entering the market as a buyer or seller, winter is a great time to prepare for a busy spring season. Let’s discuss your plans and get you feeling prepared.
N
Featured Listings | A Family Sized Townhome & Building Lot Steps to the Beach
This month we have two fantastic listings to feature; a wonderful 4 bedroom Gibsons townhome, perfect for a family or couple looking for plenty of room as well as a beautiful building lot in Bonniebrook, just up the hill from the beach.
Check them out:
Welcome to this charming and well maintained 4-bedroom townhome, perfectly situated in the heart of Gibsons. This large end unit boasts a bright, roomy layout and is ideal for families or those looking for a bit more space. Enjoy the charming fenced back garden off of the main living space – perfect for outdoor dining, gardening, or relaxing in your own green retreat. Attached garage for plenty of storage. Walk to nearby schools, shops and restaurants, making daily errands a breeze. Upgraded appliances, fresh paint & lots of pride of ownership; this one offers an exceptional opportunity to embrace the best of Gibsons living at a fantastic value. Offered at $715,000
Build your coastal dream near the shore of one of Gibson’s most beloved beaches. This private, gently sloping 1/2 acre lot in lower Bonniebrook is the ideal parcel if you’re looking for a home that is surrounded by nature yet close to everything. There are multiple options for building on the R2 zoned property including single family, duplex or home with auxiliary dwelling w/ easy access level driveway off Grandview Road. Utilities close by with municipal water at the lot line & perc test for septic system completed. Perched just 2 blocks from the beach in a sought after area of quality homes, you can make bonfires, sunset paddle board sessions and oceanside cups of coffee part of your every day routine. This is a smart investment and wonderful lifestyle on BC’s gorgeous Sunshine Coast. Offered at $699,000
If you have a question abut either of these properties, or the market in general, reach out anytime.
Market Update | Dec. 3rd – Dec 9th
Activity took a dip this week with 7 sales for Dec. 03rd – 09th, dipping the sales to list ratio back down to 10%, again making it a buyers market.
There was also small bump of new listings; 13 in total but overall we are seeing the typical seasonal decline of homes offered for sale.
Coastal Market Recap
- Sales this week: 7 (7 detached, 0 attached, 0 land)
- Sales location: Pender Harbour: 1, Halfmoon Bay: 0, Sechelt 3, Roberts Creek 1, Gibsons 2
- New Listings: 13 (Detached 10, Attached 2, Land 1)
- Total Listings: 497 (Detached 315, Attached 67, Land 115)
- Sales to Listing Ratio: 10% (top end of buyers market conditions)
- Average Days on the Market: 84
- Average Price: $933,000
If you’re considering entering the market as a buyer or seller, winter is a great time to prepare for a busy spring season. Let’s discuss your plans and get you feeling prepared.
N
Market Update | Nov 26th – Dec 2nd
Sales saw an uptick on the coast with 12 sales for the week of Nov 26th – Dec 2nd.
Spurred by lowering interest rates, pent up demand and attractive prices, the sale to list ratio of 11% pushed the market condition to the top edge of a buyer’s market.
There was also a surprising bump of new listing; 18 in total but overall we are seeing the typical seasonal decline of homes offered for sale.
Coastal Market Recap:
- Sales this week: 12 (7 detached, 3 attached, 2 land)
- Sales location: Pender Harbour: 1, Halfmoon Bay: 1, Sechelt 7, Roberts Creek 0, Gibsons 3
- New Listings: 18 (Detached 14, Attached 2, Land 2)
- Total Listings: 510 (Detached 326, Attached 69, Land 115)
- Sales to Listing Ratio: 11% (top end of buyers market conditions)
- Average Days on the Market: 72
- Average Price: $900,000
If you’re considering entering the market as a buyer or seller, winter is a great time to prepare for a busy spring season. Let’s discuss your plans and get you feeling prepared.
N
Prepping for a Fall Sale | Cheat Sheet
If you’re considering a sale in 2024, September & October are historically the busiest months of the second half of the year. Summer is a perfect time to prep for home to look its best. Here are a few smart things to tackle.
- Exteriors. Painting, yard tidying, repairing and lighting up. The good weather means it’s fun to take on these outdoor projects and the bonus is that it’s something you’ll likely get to enjoy for the summer as well.
- Re-organize. Getting rid of clutter in the summer feels great. Spaces feel lighter and more airy. Take an hour a day and sort through a drawer or room and start pairing down.
- Brighten up. Invest in some light colored bedding/ sheets/ curtains etc. Bright homes are photogenic homes. It may seem like a small detail but even the color of your bed spread can affect listing photos. Grab some bright white linens and give your rooms a quick summer makeover. Warm and bright lightbulbs are always another easy and smart upgrade. Wherever you can, introduce extra light into the space.
- Update your servicing records. When was the last time the furnace or wood stove was serviced? How about the septic or well? Compile these dates and if any are going past the recommended time frame, call in the pros to make sure everything is in good working order. Why? Buyers feel more confident buying a regularly maintained home. Plus it avoids surprises and expensive negotiation for you during an offer.
- Upgrades. Start having a look at your appliances and major infrastructure in your home. Is the hot water tank more than 10 years old? Buyers insurance will want to see a new one at time of purchase. How about the roof? Any appliances on their last legs? Spotting potential buyer objections and doing some needed upgrades can be a big help in terms of saleability.
- Talk to your agent. Planning 1-3 months in advance of your listing is a great way to stay on top of your to do list. Have your agent do a walk through with you and point out areas that can be improved and what you can leave alone. They’ll know what buyers are looking for in a home. This way you can be sure you’re focusing on what’s important.
If you have a question about this market or your home, I am always happy to have a chat.
Summer Market Activity | Increased Inventory & Cooling Sales
Contrary to popular opinion, the summer real estate market is typically slower than spring and this year is turning out to be no exception. While our warmest months see buyers and sellers lose some motivation due to vacations, hosting visitors and being more intrested in the beach than open houses on the weekend, there is more to the story this year.
The first big factor is inventory which is currently at a 5 year high on the coast, and climbing! There are 507 homes listed for sale, a 31% increase from last year. In May alone, 154 new homes were listed, a 2.7% rise. However, sales have dropped to 60, an 11% decrease from 68 last year, indicating a slower market.
Despite more homes being available and fewer sales, the average home price is $855,900, up 6.7% from last year. This price may not fully reflect the current market because it often lags behind. A better indicator is the “months of inventory,” which is now at 10 months. If this trend continues, home prices might drop by about 5-10%.
The sales-to-listings ratio is 0.118, suggesting a buyer’s market where buyers have more power in negotiations. This means sellers need to be more competitive with their prices.
Sales have fallen in all areas of the Sunshine Coast. In Sechelt for example, there were 15 detached sales in the month of June, down 50% from June 2023 but 65 new listings in that same time, up 20% from last year . This combination of low sales, high inventory gives buyers many options, putting pressure on sellers to lower prices or offer incentives.
Recent interest rate cuts might boost the market slightly, but the high number of listings means it won’t solve all issues. Buyers may start returning, but other economic factors will also influence their decisions.
Overall, the Sunshine Coast market is adjusting. Buyers have more choices due to increased listings and slower sales and now is a good time for those who may have been unable to be competitive in stronger markets to make their way in. Savvy buyers will see excellent opportunity in these current conditions. Sellers need to be aware of this and adjust their strategies. If a sale is important, prices will need to be adjusted to reflect the current climate.
This summary highlights current trends, but each neighborhood and home category may have unique factors affecting it. If you have questions about your specific home, search or area of interest, I am happy to help.