Presale vs Resale Vancouver 2026 — Matt Brevner PREC
Presale vs. Resale in Vancouver: The Honest Comparison
Presale vs. resale is not a philosophical debate — it's a financial calculation that depends on your timeline, risk tolerance, and what the current market is offering. Here's the honest version.
The Case for Presale
- Price lock-in: You buy at today's price for tomorrow's delivery. In an appreciating market, you capture that spread.
- Small deposit, large exposure: 10% down controls 100% of the asset's appreciation for 2-4 years. That's leverage most investments can't match.
- New construction quality and warranty: New Homes warranty (2/5/10 years in BC). Everything is brand new. No deferred maintenance. No surprises in the first decade.
- Assignment potential: If the market moves, you can potentially sell your contract before completion without ever taking possession.
- Exclusive pricing: VIP access through agents like myself sometimes means pricing below what the general public sees.
The Case for Resale
- You see exactly what you're buying: No surprises. The unit you visit is the unit you get.
- Move in now: No 2-4 year wait. No construction delays.
- Strata history: You can review the minutes, the financials, the history. You know what you're getting into.
- No GST: On a $700K resale, no GST means saving $35,000 compared to a comparable new build.
- No developer risk: The building exists. It's been built. It's not going to get cancelled.
The Pier West Exception
There's a current market anomaly worth noting: Pier West in New Westminster — BC's tallest waterfront tower by Bosa — is now selling completed units below original presale pricing. It's move-in ready, no GST implications on the delta, and the quality is exceptional. This is a case where a completed new build actually beats both presale (no wait) and most resale options (new construction quality) on price. These windows don't last long.
Presale vs Resale FAQ
Is presale or resale better in Vancouver 2026?
It depends entirely on your situation. Presale makes sense if you can tie up capital for 2-4 years, want new construction quality and warranty, and are betting on price appreciation. Resale makes sense if you need to move in now, want to see exactly what you're buying, and aren't comfortable with developer/completion risk.
Are presale condos more expensive than resale in Vancouver?
Not always. During market downturns or when developers are motivated to sell, presale prices can be at or below comparable resale. In some cases (like Pier West right now), completed new construction is selling below original presale pricing. Market timing matters.
What are the tax differences between presale and resale in Vancouver?
GST applies to new construction (presale and new resale) — typically 5%, though there may be rebates for owner-occupiers under $500K purchase price. GST does not apply to resale properties. This is a material cost difference to factor into your calculations.
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