A New Chapter, Not a Rushed One: What North Vancouver’s Market Means for Your 2026 Move

Let’s take a look at what the actual numbers in North Vancouver are telling us and what that could mean for your next move, especially if you’re thinking about downsizing and simplifying life in 2026.

December 2025 North Vancouver Snapshot (MLS data):

• Average sold price in North Vancouver in December for a Single Detached Home was about $2,041,600, with homes taking on average 47 days on market. There were 223 Single Detached Homes on the market with 25 Sales in December.

• Across Metro Vancouver, December saw lower overall sales compared with last year, but listings were up — meaning choices abound for buyers, and strategic pricing matters more than ever.

These numbers tell a story that may feel familiar if you’re watching market trends closely: sellers have options, buyers have choice, and pricing strategy + presentation = traction in 2026.

Here’s the honest real estate reality — North Vancouver edition

If you’re thinking about selling — here is what’s working right now:

1️⃣ Buyers have options
North Vancouver’s inventory is healthy, and buyers can be choosy. That’s great news for downsizers who prepare well and price wisely — your property can stand out in a sea of listings.

2️⃣ This market doesn’t care about emotions — only value.
Your memories, upgrades, or sentiment don’t show up on MLS. What matters is: what a qualified buyer is willing to pay today. The sooner we align expectations with reality, the sooner you unlock your next phase.

3️⃣ Marketing amplifies good pricing, but can’t fix bad pricing.
Even the best photos, staging, drone shots, and storytelling won’t sell a home that’s priced above its market sweet spot. Think of pricing like positioning — the right spot gets attention. The wrong spot gets stagnation.

4️⃣ Patience is a strategic advantage.
In December we saw homes selling in ~ 47 days on average locally — not overnight, but certainly not an eternity. Smartly prepared homes are moving, and if you’re aiming for a spring 2026 sale, now is the time to start shaping your strategy.

5️⃣ Expect a bump or two.
Yes contracts can fall through — that happens in markets where buyers are weighing choices carefully. The difference between stress and success is prepared expectations and resilient optimism.

6️⃣ You’re not alone in this.
This is your move, your life chapter, and I’m right beside you. We map it out, strategize the best approach and when you feel ready, we hit play - seamlessly and stress-free.

Now the good news — because there is good news

Despite all the nuance, North Vancouver homes still sold in December 2025:

✔ Sellers found success — even in winter.
✔ Average sale prices held firm in a broad, balanced market.
✔ Buyers are still active and ready when value and fit align.

And here’s why 2026 is worth being optimistic about:

Lower borrowing costs, growing buyer confidence, and seasonal momentum typically kick in before the spring rush. There’s a real chance that the first half of 2026 sees increased activity, especially from buyers who have been waiting on the sidelines. (Historic patterns and regional forecasts support this trend.

For downsizers in particular? This is a moment to act with clarity, not urgency.
A balanced market means:

• More thoughtfully paced negotiating between buyers and sellers,
• More time to prepare your home to look its best,
• And the ability to choose where you’re going next — whether that’s a cozy condo, a 55+ community, or a modern strata home with less upkeep.

Bottom line:
Homes are selling here in North Vancouver — even in slower months — when pricing, presentation, and positioning align.

If you’re thinking about selling or downsizing in 2026, let’s chat about what this market means for you, how to set your home up for success and how we can make your next chapter the best one yet.

Shelley Hird
North Shore REALTOR® and Downsizing Specialist
www.shelleyhird.com