The Hidden Risk of Waiting to Sell in Richmond BC’s Cooling Market
- Sam Loewen
- Nov 20
- 3 min read
The real estate market in Richmond, British Columbia is showing clear signs of strain as we move further into 2025. For homeowners, sellers, and investors, recognizing these challenges now is crucial — especially ahead of the busy spring listing season. Here’s a closer look at the key obstacles, what they mean for you, and how to navigate them.
1. Economic Headwinds and Buyer Hesitation waiting to sell Richmond BC
The broader economy is impacting buyer behaviour more than many sellers realise. With chaning interest rates, inflation pressures and cost‑of‑living concerns, many potential buyers are choosing to wait rather than jump into transactions. The Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR) reported that in October 2025, Metro Vancouver’s sales‑to‑active‑listings ratio dropped to a measly 11.3% — an indicator of imbalance between supply and demand. gvrealtors.ca+1
In Richmond, this means fewer qualified buyers are actively bidding, more properties linger on the market longer, and sellers are beginning to revise expectations.
2. Sellers Withdrawing Their Listings
When market activity dips, some homeowners opt to withdraw listings or postpone their plans rather than face lower offers or prolonged marketing periods. While specific public numbers for Richmond are limited, the trend aligns with broader Metro Vancouver data showing elevated listings and longer days on market. For sellers: this reduces competition short‑term, but also risks missing the strongest market window if you delay too long.
3. Danger Ahead: Everyone Relists in the Spring
Here’s the critical risk: many will try to re‑enter the market in spring believing that’s when the "rush" happens. But when too many sellers list at once, key issues arise:
Inventory spikes — A surge of new listings reduces leverage for each seller.
Price pressure — Over‑supply can force discounts or concessions.
Buyer fatigue — Buyers become selective and resistant to over‑priced homes.
Marketing fatigue — Homes that sit past the frenzied early viewing windows often lose momentum. waiting to sell Richmond BC
In short, timing matters. If you wait for spring because it “feels right,” you also risk being one of many competing sellers — not the standout listing.
4. What This Means for Home Sellers in Richmond
To navigate these challenges effectively:
Price realistically now — With buyer activity muted, pricing aggressively may even pay dividends.
Prepare early — Use the quieter market to secure staging, professional photos, and a targeted marketing plan.
Consider listing timing strategically — Rather than blindly targeting spring, evaluate whether your home would stand out now or would instead be lost among a spring rush.
Rely on local expertise — Richmond’s dynamics vary significantly block by block. A local agent who monitors these nuances is essential.
5. Why Acting Now Could Give You an Edge
While many sellers wait for "peak season," smart sellers will use this period of lower competition to:
Capture serious buyers who are still active
Control the narrative before a flood of new inventory emerges
Leverage marketing strategies that will pay off with fewer distractions
If you act now with the right plan, you avoid the crowd, position your home for fewer comparisons and increase your odds of a strong outcome.
Final Thoughts
The Richmond real estate market is not broken — but it’s clearly not operating as it did in 2021‑22. Sellers who recognize the changing environment, adapt their strategy and avoid the pitfalls of the spring relist surge will be in the best position heading into 2025.
Ready to Make a Wise Move?
If you’re considering selling, I provide Richmond‑specific guidance including:
A detailed market evaluation based on current conditions
A strategic timeline tailored for your property
A marketing approach built to stand out, not just blend in
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