A recent survey of British Columbia homebuyers reveals a strong preference for ground-level homes with front doors and outdoor space, rather than condos in highrise towers. The study, conducted by Angus Reid for Rennie Intelligence, found that over half of end-user buyers identify townhomes as their preferred choice.
Shift in Buyer Demographics
The survey, titled Homes of Tomorrow by Elaine Cowley and Ryan Berlin, highlights that 87 percent of recent and future homebuyers in B.C. are end-users who plan to live in their purchased homes. This marks a significant shift from the 2016-2023 period, when nearly half of condos in Metro Vancouver were bought by investors. The report notes that the demand for ground-oriented living remains strong, with many buyers being couples with children, pets, and cars.
Preference for Townhomes
According to the report, the ideal home for most buyers is a three-bedroom family home, but there is also notable interest in compact two-bedroom townhome configurations. "The appeal of a private front door isn't just for those with large families; it's a lifestyle preference that resonates even with households with more modest space requirements," the report states. Only 12 percent of respondents expressed a desire for a single-detached house, reflecting the high cost of urban land.
Challenges in the Housing Market
The findings come as the B.C. housing market softens after nearly three decades of unaffordability. Developers had focused on building condo towers targeting investors, but now there is a glut of unsold units in Metro Vancouver. The survey suggests that the highrise model is facing headwinds as buyers prioritize ground-oriented homes with parking and outdoor space.
The Remax real estate ad, featuring ground-level homes with white picket fences, aligns with these preferences. The survey of 1,400 residents across Metro Vancouver, Greater Victoria, and the Central Okanagan underscores the enduring appeal of ground-level living.
