The Columbia Valley Market Shows Signs of a Spooky Shift…
October crept in with frosty mornings, fall colours—and a few chilling twists in the Columbia Valley real estate market. While sales remained relatively strong, a cooling in buyer urgency and a climb in inventory signalled a return to more balanced conditions. Still, some “treats” await for well-prepared buyers and sellers alike.
Here’s your ghoulishly good breakdown of October’s real estate stats across Invermere, Radium Hot Springs, Windermere, Fairmont, and beyond:
🧛 October 2025 vs October 2024 – Frighteningly Fresh Stats
👀 Ghosts of Market Trends
🧟♂️ Sales Slump
Compared to last October, sales fell by nearly 23%. This slowdown may spook some sellers, but don’t panic—this is a normal seasonal shift as buyers start bundling up for winter and become more selective.
🎁 Inventory: A Treat for Buyers
Inventory jumped 15% and months of inventory climbed to 9.06 months. That’s the highest we've seen in over a year—giving buyers more choice and room to negotiate.
🧙♀️ Prices Still Brewing Higher
Despite fewer sales, prices remain strong. The average sale price rose by 18.6% year-over-year, though the sale-to-list price ratio dipped slightly. Sellers may need to manage expectations as more competition emerges.
🕯️ Longer Days on Market
Homes are lingering about 10 days longer than they did last October. It's a sign the market is cooling—but not freezing. Proper pricing, staging, and marketing remain critical.
🧟 What Buyers & Sellers Should Know
🎃 Buyers:
You now have more listings to choose from and stronger negotiation power.
Keep your eyes peeled for stale listings that may be open to price adjustments.
Get pre-approved and be ready to pounce when you find a good fit—fall and winter can still offer solid buying opportunities.
🦇 Sellers:
Expect longer timelines and more pricing competition.
That said, prices are still historically high—and a well-presented home will stand out in the growing inventory.
Consider listing before holiday distractions kick in or start prepping for the new year market surge.
🏡 Final Thoughts: Don’t Be Spooked, Be Strategic
As the fog settles over the Columbia Valley, one thing is clear: we’re entering a more balanced market, not a haunted one. Whether you're buying your first home or preparing to list, this season offers opportunity—with the right game plan.
Need help making sense of the market? We’re here to help you navigate every twist and turn—without the fright.
📞 Geoff Sherlock
📧 geoff@remaxinvermere.com
🕵️ Sherlock Homes Real Estate Team | RE/MAX Invermere
📞 Lindsey Sherlock
📧 lindsey@remaxinvermere.com
🕵️ Sherlock Homes Real Estate Team | RE/MAX Invermere
