B.C. has a new government. The BC Conservatives under Lorne Doerkson are projected to win a majority (leading in 64 of 93 ridings on the initial count; final count Nov 6–10).
This started as a post on my social channels. Politics aside, here's what they ran on for housing and what it could mean in Greater Vancouver and the Tri-Cities, BC.
Their housing plan
Cut construction taxes and charges, approve homes in months instead of years, overhaul the Step Code, and give density decisions back to cities through their Official Community Plans.
What it could mean for buyers, sellers and renters
Buyers: if fees and approval times actually come down, more new supply could help over time, but nothing changes overnight. Rates and your budget still matter more this year.
Sellers: no new or higher housing taxes were promised, and Doerkson said he'd keep the speculation and vacancy tax and the foreign buyers tax. Expect a "wait and see" pause from some buyers while details come out.
Renters: no renter-specific promises in the platform. The 2.2% cap on 2027 rent increases is already set.
What this means for you
The real impact will depend on what actually gets passed. I'll keep sharing what changes as it happens.
If you're buying, my page for home buyers walks through how I help. If you're renting, or you're a newcomer moving here, my relocation rental service for tenants covers all of Greater Vancouver, including the Tri-Cities, BC, and my guide to relocating to Greater Vancouver is a good place to start.
Thinking about buying, selling or renting in the Tri-Cities, BC? Happy to talk it through.