Question 1

Is it better to buy or rent in Vancouver in 2025?

Accepted Answer

Renting is significantly cheaper. Vancouver has extremly low 'cap rates', meaning the cost to purchase a property is disconnected from the rental income it generates. You can rent a luxury condo for 40-50% less than the monthly mortgage cost.

Question 2

How does the Empty Homes Tax work?

Accepted Answer

If a property is not your principal residence and is unoccupied for more than 6 months of the year, you are subject to a 3% annual tax on the property's assessed value. This is separate from the Provincial Speculation Tax.

Question 3

What are 'Leasehold' condos?

Accepted Answer

In some areas like False Creek and the West End, you don't own the land; you only lease it for a set period (e.g., 99 years[A]). These properties are cheaper but harder to finance and depreciate in value as the lease end date approaches.

Vancouver: Glass City Dreams or Rainy Reality?