By: William Hubbard

SHOULD THE BAN ON FOREIGN BUYER'S GO OR STAY? 

Canada's federal ban on foreign purchases of residential real estate is currently scheduled to expire January 1, 2027.

Will the government allow it to expire? More importantly, should they?
I believe this deserves a much bigger discussion.

Logically, restrictions on foreign purchasing should have their greatest impact in markets that have historically attracted significant international investment and immigration. The two obvious examples are Toronto and Vancouver, Canada's two largest economies. To some extent, housing markets across the rest of the country are also influenced by what happens in these two major markets.

Look at what has happened to available inventory since the ban came in.
Compared with the extremely tight market of 2021, active housing inventory has increased approximately:
Toronto: +168%
Vancouver: +67%

Those are enormous increases in the number of homes available to buyers—and additional inventory was desperately needed.

Now look at prices.

From their 2022 peaks, residential values have declined approximately:
Toronto: -24.8%
Vancouver: -20.8%

That doesn't mean the same thing has happened everywhere in Canada. Some markets have remained relatively flat, while others have actually increased.
It also certainly doesn't mean the foreign buyer ban caused these corrections by itself.

This is where I think much of the commentary about real estate in the press misses something I call the VECTOR PRINCIPLE.

There is never just one force determining the direction of a real estate market.

Think of the market as being pushed and pulled by numerous vectors, each operating in a different direction and with a different magnitude:
• Interest rates
• Employment
• Immigration and population growth
• Housing inventory
• Consumer confidence
• Affordability
• Economic growth
• Domestic government policy
• Foreign government policy and global events
• Taxes and regulation
• Availability of credit
• Investor activity

The ultimate direction of the real estate market is the sum of all of those forces/vectors.

I have been tracking Canadian Real Estate Statistics for roughly 30 years, and both Toronto and Vancouver markets have historically been remarkably resilient. By 2022, however, they had become severely overheated and a correction was badly needed.

That correction has now been substantial.

I am not suggesting that the foreign buyer ban single-handedly caused inventory to rise or prices to fall. Interest rates alone have obviously been an enormous force during this period.

What I am suggesting is that the foreign buyer ban has been one significant vector among many, particularly in Toronto and Vancouver.

And if we remove that vector on January 1, 2027, what happens next?

Should Canada extend the foreign buyer ban—or is it time to let it expire?

I'd be interested to hear what you think. 

William Hubbard
Owner / Broker
Coldwell Banker Executives Realty 
TheBCHomes.com 

#ForeignBuyerBan #CanadianRealEstate #CanadaHousing #HousingMarket #RealEstateMarket #HousingAffordability #HousingPolicy #CanadianHousing #RealEstateCanada #TorontoRealEstate #TorontoHousing #VancouverRealEstate #VancouverHousing #BCHousing #BCRealEstate #HomePrices #HousingInventory #MarketUpdate #RealEstateTrends #PropertyMarket #RealEstateInvesting #EconomicOutlook #InterestRates #TheBCHomes #ColdwellBankerExecutivesRealty
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By: Executives Realty Coldwell Banker

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By: Coldwell Banker Executives Realty

How to Position Yourself for Success as a New Realtor® in BC

If you’ve been thinking about starting a career in real estate, you’ve probably asked yourself one big question: Is now actually a good time to get in?

It’s a fair question—and an important one. With the market shifting, interest rates stabilizing, and more conversations happening around affordability, it can feel uncertain from the outside looking in.

But here’s the truth: real estate has never been about finding the perfect time—it’s about positioning yourself for the right opportunity.


A Changing Market Creates Opportunity

Across British Columbia, we’re starting to see early signs of renewed activity. While some of this is seasonal, there’s also a growing sense of confidence returning to the market. Decisions from the Bank of Canada have helped bring more stability, and both buyers and sellers are beginning to re-engage.

For new Realtors®, this kind of environment can actually be an advantage.

You’re not stepping into an oversaturated, hyper-competitive frenzy—you’re entering a market that’s rebuilding momentum. And that’s often where long-term careers are quietly built.


It’s Not About Timing—It’s About Preparation

One of the biggest misconceptions about real estate is that success is tied to market timing. In reality, it comes down to something much more practical: your foundation.

The agents who succeed—regardless of market conditions—are the ones who have:

  • Consistent training
  • Strong lead generation systems
  • Ongoing coaching and accountability
  • The right environment around them

Starting in a transitional market gives you the time to learn, practice, and build confidence before things fully heat up again.


Less Noise, More Opportunity to Stand Out

During peak markets, it’s common to see a surge of new agents entering the industry. When things slow down or shift, that wave tends to settle—and what’s left are the agents who are serious about building a career.

For someone new, that creates a unique window:

  • Less competition from part-time or short-term agents
  • More opportunity to build meaningful client relationships
  • A chance to develop your business without the chaos of a peak market 


Less Noise, More Opportunity to Stand Out

During peak markets, it’s common to see a surge of new agents entering the industry. When things slow down or shift, that wave tends to settle—and what’s left are the agents who are serious about building a career.

For someone new, that creates a unique window:

  • Less competition from part-time or short-term agents
  • More opportunity to build meaningful client relationships
  • A chance to develop your business without the chaos of a peak market


Why Starting Now Can Be a Smart Move

There’s a strategic advantage to getting started before the market fully accelerates.

You have time to:

  • Build your database
  • Learn your local market inside and out
  • Develop routines and systems
  • Gain confidence in your skills

So when activity increases—as it always does—you’re not trying to catch up. You’re already in motion.


The Most Important Decision You’ll Make

If you’re considering a career in real estate, the most important question isn’t when you start.

It’s where and how you start.

The right brokerage should offer more than just a desk and a license. It should provide:

  • Hands-on training and accessible support
  • Systems that help generate real business
  • Coaching and accountability to keep you moving forward
  • A culture that genuinely wants to see you succeed

Because in this industry, the difference between struggling and succeeding often comes down to the environment you’re in. 


Real estate isn’t about waiting for the perfect moment—it’s about creating the right foundation and taking action when the opportunity is in front of you.

If you’ve been thinking about getting into the industry, now may not feel like a “perfect” time—but it could very well be the right time. 


Let’s Connect

If you’re curious about what a career in real estate could look like—or want an honest, no-pressure conversation about getting started—I’m always happy to connect confidentially.

William Hubbard
Owner/Broker
📞 250-550-4221
📧 [email protected]

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By: Coldwell Banker Executives Realty

What to Look For

Starting or growing your career in real estate is an exciting step—but choosing the right brokerage can make all the difference in your success.

In a competitive and evolving market like British Columbia, it’s important to look beyond the surface and understand what a brokerage truly offers to support your business.

Here are the key things to consider:

1. Lead Generation That Drives Real Business

Lead generation is often talked about—but not always delivered effectively.

In today’s market, having access to advanced online lead generation systems can be a major advantage. The right brokerage should provide tools and systems that go beyond just supplying leads—they should help you convert those leads into real clients and closed transactions.


2. Training, Coaching & Consistency

Real estate is constantly changing, and ongoing education is essential.

Look for a brokerage that offers:

  • Weekly training sessions
  • Regular sales meetings
  • Structured coaching programs

Consistent, professional coaching helps you stay accountable, sharpen your skills, and continue growing—no matter what stage you’re at in your career. 


3. Broker Support & Experience

Access to experienced brokers is invaluable.

Whether you’re navigating your first deal or managing a complex transaction, having knowledgeable brokers available to guide you can give you confidence and help you avoid costly mistakes. A supportive brokerage culture encourages you to ask questions and grow. 


4. Technology That Works for You

The right technology can streamline your entire business.

Modern brokerages should offer tools like:

  • Digital signing platforms such as Authentisign and DocuSign
  • Secure online banking platforms for handling client deposits
  • Trusted compliance tools, including FINTRAC apps
  • Integrated AI systems to improve efficiency and client service

These tools not only save time but also create a smoother, more professional experience for your clients. 


5. Systems That Add Value to Your Clients

Strong brokerages provide tools that help you stand out.

For example, access to strata summary reports can give your clients deeper insights and position you as a knowledgeable, prepared professional. These added-value tools can help build trust and set you apart in competitive situations. 


6. Brand Power & Professional Development

A well-recognized brand, combined with strong internal programs, can elevate your business.

Programs like CB Ignite provide structured learning and support, helping you build confidence and momentum—especially in your early stages as a Realtor®. 


Choosing the right brokerage in British Columbia isn’t just about fees or branding—it’s about finding the right combination of support, technology, training, and opportunity.

The right environment should empower you to grow your business, serve your clients at a higher level, and build a sustainable, long-term career in real estate.


Let’s Connect

If you’re considering a move or simply exploring your options, having a confidential conversation can be the best place to start. William Hubbard, Owner/Broker, is always available to connect one-on-one to discuss your goals, answer your questions, and help you determine the right path forward for your business.

You can reach Bill directly at 250-550-4221 or by email at [email protected]. 

All conversations are completely confidential and focused on what’s best for you and your career.

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By: Coldwell Banker Executives Realty

The British Columbia housing market is beginning to show early signs of recovery. While some of this activity can be attributed to the typical seasonal lift associated with the spring market, year-over-year comparisons also indicate measurable improvement.
Although conditions in the Lower Mainland remain relatively soft compared to the Interior, the region is now experiencing its second consecutive month of increasing absorption and sales activity. The Interior markets continue to perform modestly better overall, with certain areas like the North Okanagan, Kamloops and the Kootenays well into balanced market conditions. 
One of the most important indicators for assessing short-term future market direction is absorption, which measures the percentage of available inventory that sells each month. This metric is a direct display of supply and demand. As reflected in the stats  absorption rates have increased for the second consecutive month across both the Interior and Lower Mainland regions. Sellers are realizing that in order to draw the limited buyer pool they must get more aggressive with their pricing. 
While these trends are encouraging, they remain in the early stages and should be viewed with caution. Sustained improvement over the next few months will be required to confirm a clear and stable upward trend.
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