Longer Days, More Listings, and Opportunities for Buyers
As the Columbia Valley transitions from spring into summer, the real estate market is beginning to reflect the seasonal shift. The warmer weather has encouraged more homeowners to bring their properties to market, resulting in increased inventory and more choice for buyers. While activity remains steady, the market continues to move toward a more balanced environment compared to the fast-paced conditions we experienced a few years ago.
Market Snapshot – May 2026
48 Residential Properties Sold (down 9.4% from May 2025)
104 New Listings (up 11.8% year-over-year)
283 Active Listings at month-end (up 1.4%)
Average Sale Price: $569,102 (down 12.6%)
Average Days on Market: 60 days (down 4.2%)
Sale-to-List Price Ratio: 95.85%
Months of Inventory: 8.09 months
More Listings Mean More Choice
One of the biggest stories this month is the increase in new inventory. With 104 new listings hitting the market, buyers now have more options than they did this time last year. Active inventory climbed to 283 residential properties, giving buyers additional opportunities to compare properties and negotiate with confidence.
The increase in inventory pushed the Months Supply of Inventory (MSI) to 8.09 months, slightly above last year's 7.97 months and above the five-year May average. This signals a market that is becoming more balanced and less competitive than we've seen in recent years.
Prices Adjusting While Demand Remains
The average residential sale price in May came in at $569,102, a decrease of 12.6% compared to May 2025. It's important to remember that monthly average prices can fluctuate significantly depending on the mix of properties that sell in a given month. Luxury home sales, waterfront properties, and recreational properties can all have a large impact on the averages.
Interestingly, year-to-date statistics continue to tell a more stable story, with average sale prices for 2026 running slightly ahead of 2025 overall.
Homes Still Selling at Strong Values
Despite softer average pricing, sellers are still achieving strong results. Properties sold for an average of 95.85% of asking price, nearly identical to last year's performance. This indicates that well-priced homes continue to attract buyers and sell close to list price.
The average time required to sell a home also improved slightly, decreasing from 62 days to 60 days. For sellers, this is encouraging news as serious buyers remain active in the marketplace heading into the busiest season of the year.
What This Means for Buyers and Sellers
For Buyers:
The increase in available inventory provides more selection and a bit more breathing room when making purchasing decisions. Buyers have greater opportunities to compare properties, negotiate terms, and find the right fit for their lifestyle and budget.
For Sellers:
Pricing strategy is becoming increasingly important. While buyers remain active, they have more choices than they did a year ago. Properties that are priced appropriately, professionally marketed, and presented well continue to generate strong interest and achieve solid sale-to-list price ratios.
Looking Ahead
As we move into June and the heart of the summer selling season, we expect inventory levels to remain elevated while buyer activity increases as vacation property shoppers and summer visitors arrive in the Columbia Valley. The market remains healthy, but success increasingly depends on understanding current market conditions and adapting strategies accordingly.
Whether you're considering buying your first home, purchasing a recreational property, or preparing to sell, having a local market expert on your side can make all the difference.
If you'd like to discuss your property's value or your real estate goals for 2026, feel free to reach out anytime.
Geoff & Lindsey Sherlock
Sherlock Homes Real Estate Team | RE/MAX Invermere
📞 250-688-5151 & 📞 250-409-6464
🌐 www.sherlockhomesbc.com
