If you're living and working in British Columbia but aren't yet a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you may be wondering: Can I purchase real estate with a work permit in BC?

The answer depends on your individual circumstances.

Canada's federal prohibition on the purchase of certain residential property by non-Canadians has been extended through January 1, 2027. However, the legislation includes exceptions for certain non-Canadian purchasers.

That means holding a work permit does not automatically give every buyer permission to purchase—and being a non-permanent resident does not necessarily mean you cannot buy.

Does the Foreign Buyer Ban Apply to Work Permit Holders in British Columbia?

This is one of the most important questions to clarify before beginning your home search.

Eligibility can depend on factors including your immigration status, the conditions and validity of your work permit, the property you intend to purchase, and whether you meet an exemption under the federal regulations.

There is another important consideration for anyone buying in BC: federal purchase restrictions and BC's foreign buyer tax are separate rules.

British Columbia imposes an additional property transfer tax on certain foreign entities purchasing residential property in specified areas. Depending on your circumstances, exemptions may apply, but eligibility should be confirmed before writing an offer.

Can I Purchase Real Estate With a Work Permit in Vancouver?

Potentially—but don't make assumptions based solely on your work permit.

Before beginning your Vancouver real estate search, we recommend confirming your eligibility with a qualified Canadian real estate lawyer or notary familiar with the current legislation.

Your REALTOR® can then help you understand the real estate side of the transaction, including neighbourhoods, property values, comparable sales, financing timelines and the buying process.

Buying a Home While Relocating to British Columbia

For many newcomers, buying a home is only one part of a much larger transition.

If you're relocating to British Columbia, questions about commute, schools, transportation, housing types and lifestyle can be just as important as the home itself.

Vancouver may be your starting point, but communities such as Burnaby, Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Surrey, Langley, Maple Ridge and New Westminster can offer very different housing and lifestyle options.

The Anna Litvak Joseph Team at BC Prime Real Estate Group works with local and relocating buyers throughout Greater Vancouver and the Fraser Valley, including clients who prefer to communicate in Russian or Hebrew.

If you're considering purchasing property in BC with a work permit, the first step is understanding what applies to your specific situation.

Have questions about where to start? Connect with our team and let’s build a plan for your move to British Columbia.

This article provides general real estate information and is not legal, immigration or tax advice. Regulations and exemptions can change. Buyers should obtain independent legal, immigration and tax advice regarding their eligibility before purchasing.

ABOUT THE ANNA LITVAK JOSEPH TEAM — BC PRIME REALTY

The Anna Litvak Joseph Team at BC Prime Realty — BC Prime Real Estate Group — is one of Greater Vancouver's most trusted and established real estate teams, serving clients across Vancouver, Burnaby, Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Surrey, Langley, Maple Ridge, Fraser Valley, Kelowna, and the surrounding region.

Anna Litvak Joseph is a licensed REALTOR® with over 15 years of sales and entrepreneurship experience, dedicated to delivering exceptional service, expert advice, and outstanding results in every real estate transaction. Her client-centric approach is the cornerstone of her business philosophy — building meaningful relationships from the very first conversation and supporting clients throughout their entire real estate journey. A consistent Medallion Club Member every year from 2018 through 2025, Anna consistently ranks among the top 10% of real estate agents in Greater Vancouver. Her reputation is built on results — reflected in numerous 5-star testimonials and recurring features in publications including Vancouver Excellence in Real Estate and Top Agent Magazine. The majority of Anna's business today comes from referrals and repeat clients, which speaks to the trust and lasting relationships she has built over the years.

The Anna Litvak Joseph Team has grown into a full-service, trusted brand recognized for serving thousands of satisfied buyers and sellers across Greater Vancouver and beyond. The team has earned the prestigious Medallion Club award collectively from 2020 through 2025 — placing them among the top 10% of real estate teams in Greater Vancouver. The team includes Tal Joseph, Realtor, and Natalie Haikin, Realtor, offering multilingual service in English, Russian, and Ukrainian — making them the leading Russian speaking and Ukrainian realtor team in British Columbia. Diversity, integrity, and genuine passion for real estate excellence are at the heart of everything this team does.

MEET TEAM MEMBERS

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Market Statistics  | Customized Market Insights

As summer comes to an end, the Metro Vancouver real estate market is heading into fall with more choice for buyers, softer prices, and a market where strategy matters more than ever.

In August 2026, 1,869 homes sold across Metro Vancouver, down 4.6% from August 2025 and 20.7% below the 10-year seasonal average.

At the same time, there were 15,798 homes available for sale, leaving inventory 26.2% above the 10-year seasonal average.

The benchmark price for a Metro Vancouver home is now $1,081,900, down 5.6% year-over-year and 0.6% from July.

A Closer Look at Home Prices

Detached Homes
557 sales | Benchmark: $1,799,400
Prices decreased 7.2% year-over-year.

Apartments & Condos
891 sales | Benchmark: $686,200
Prices decreased 6.6% year-over-year.

Townhomes
412 sales | Benchmark: $1,028,800
Sales increased slightly compared with last August, while the benchmark price decreased 4.4% year-over-year.

What Does This Mean for Buyers?

For anyone thinking about buying a home in Vancouver or Greater Vancouver, the fall market continues to offer something buyers haven't always had: choice and time.

Higher inventory means buyers can compare more properties, evaluate value carefully and, in some situations, negotiate more favourable terms.

But this doesn't mean every property is a bargain. Well-priced homes in desirable neighbourhoods can still attract attention quickly.

The opportunity is in understanding which properties are priced correctly, which are sitting above market value, and where there may be room to negotiate.

Whether you're looking at a Vancouver condo, a Burnaby detached home, a Coquitlam townhome or a family home further into the Fraser Valley, local comparable sales matter far more than headlines alone.

What Does This Mean for Sellers?

For sellers, pricing and presentation are critical in the fall 2026 market.

Buyers have more options, so your home is being compared against competing listings from the moment it hits the market.

The right strategy starts with understanding recent sales and current competition, establishing a realistic listing price, presenting the property at its best, and creating marketing that gives buyers a reason to choose your home over the alternatives.

In a market with higher inventory, the first impression—and the initial pricing strategy—can make a significant difference.

Planning a Move This Fall or in 2027?

You don't need to be ready to move tomorrow to start planning.

If you're considering buying, selling or relocating to British Columbia, now is a good time to understand what your current home may be worth, what is happening in the communities you're considering, and how today's market could affect your next move.

The Anna Litvak Joseph Team at BC Prime Real Estate Group works with buyers and sellers throughout Vancouver, Burnaby, Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Surrey, Langley, Maple Ridge and surrounding Greater Vancouver and Fraser Valley communities.

Thinking about making a move this fall—or even in 2027? Let’s start planning now.

Market statistics based on Greater Vancouver REALTORS® August 2026 MLS® data. Real estate conditions vary by neighbourhood, property type and price range.

ABOUT THE ANNA LITVAK JOSEPH TEAM — BC PRIME REALTY

The Anna Litvak Joseph Team at BC Prime Realty — BC Prime Real Estate Group — is one of Greater Vancouver's most trusted and established real estate teams, serving clients across Vancouver, Burnaby, Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Surrey, Langley, Maple Ridge, Fraser Valley, Kelowna, and the surrounding region.

Anna Litvak Joseph is a licensed REALTOR® with over 15 years of sales and entrepreneurship experience, dedicated to delivering exceptional service, expert advice, and outstanding results in every real estate transaction. Her client-centric approach is the cornerstone of her business philosophy — building meaningful relationships from the very first conversation and supporting clients throughout their entire real estate journey. A consistent Medallion Club Member every year from 2018 through 2025, Anna consistently ranks among the top 10% of real estate agents in Greater Vancouver. Her reputation is built on results — reflected in numerous 5-star testimonials and recurring features in publications including Vancouver Excellence in Real Estate and Top Agent Magazine. The majority of Anna's business today comes from referrals and repeat clients, which speaks to the trust and lasting relationships she has built over the years.

The Anna Litvak Joseph Team has grown into a full-service, trusted brand recognized for serving thousands of satisfied buyers and sellers across Greater Vancouver and beyond. The team has earned the prestigious Medallion Club award collectively from 2020 through 2025 — placing them among the top 10% of real estate teams in Greater Vancouver. The team includes Tal Joseph, Realtor, and Natalie Haikin, Realtor, offering multilingual service in English, Russian, and Ukrainian — making them the leading Russian speaking and Ukrainian realtor team in British Columbia. Diversity, integrity, and genuine passion for real estate excellence are at the heart of everything this team does.

MEET TEAM MEMBERS

Listings  | Selling a Home  | Home Evaluation  | Moving to BC  | Investors 
Market Statistics  | Customized Market Insights

A rare opportunity has just hit the market in one of Burke Mountain’s most sought-after new communities — Terrayne by Townline in Coquitlam.

NEW PRICE $815,000

This assignment sale presents a modern 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home with 884 sq ft of thoughtfully designed living space, along with 2 parking stalls, 1 bicycle storage locker, and EV-ready parking.

This is a standout opportunity for buyers searching for new construction in one of the most desirable areas of Coquitlam.

Prime Burke Mountain Location

Located in the heart of Burke Mountain, this home offers a rare balance of nature and convenience. Surrounded by parks, trails, and mountain views, the community continues to attract families and professionals looking for long-term value.

For those searching with a Coquitlam realtor or browsing listings through Coquitlam real estate agents, Burke Mountain remains one of the fastest-growing and most in-demand neighbourhoods in the region.

Convenient Transportation Access

Terrayne offers excellent connectivity throughout Metro Vancouver. Lafarge Lake–Douglas SkyTrain Station is just minutes away, providing direct access to Coquitlam Centre, Burnaby, and Vancouver.

Easy access to major routes including Lougheed Highway and Highway 1 makes commuting simple for residents working across Metro Vancouver, including Vancouver, Burnaby, Port Coquitlam, Surrey, and beyond.

Schools & Family Living

This location is ideal for families. Nearby schools include Coast Salish Elementary, Leigh Elementary, Minnekhada Middle School, and Terry Fox Secondary School.

Douglas College Coquitlam Campus is also just a short drive away, making this a strong location for students and families alike.

Shopping & Lifestyle Amenities

Residents are close to Coquitlam Centre, offering a full range of retail, dining, grocery, and entertainment options. Additional amenities are available throughout Burke Mountain and nearby communities.

From everyday essentials to weekend outings, everything is within easy reach.

Modern Living at Terrayne

This home features a premium appliance package including KitchenAid and Bosch appliances, quartz countertops, gas cooktop, air conditioning, and spa-inspired bathroom finishes.

Residents will enjoy access to a wide range of amenities including a fitness centre, lounge spaces, outdoor fireside areas, community gardens, children’s play areas, and direct access to Burke Mountain trails.

FLOOR PLAN

A Rare Assignment Opportunity

Assignments in developments like Terrayne are limited and highly sought after in today’s market. With strong demand in Burke Mountain and Coquitlam, this home presents an excellent opportunity for both end-users and investors.

Whether you are actively searching with a Coquitlam realtor, comparing presales, or looking for a long-term home in a growing community, this assignment stands out as a strong option in the market.

Contact us for pricing details, floorplan, and full assignment package.

About The Anna Litvak Joseph Team — BC Prime Realty

The Anna Litvak Joseph Team at BC Prime Realty — BC Prime Real Estate Group — is one of Greater Vancouver's most trusted and established real estate teams, serving clients across Vancouver, Burnaby, Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Surrey, Langley, Maple Ridge, Fraser Valley, Kelowna, and the surrounding region.

Anna Litvak Joseph is a licensed REALTOR® with over 15 years of sales and entrepreneurship experience, dedicated to delivering exceptional service, expert advice, and outstanding results in every real estate transaction. Her client-centric approach is the cornerstone of her business philosophy — building meaningful relationships from the very first conversation and supporting clients throughout their entire real estate journey. A consistent Medallion Club Member every year from 2018 through 2025, Anna consistently ranks among the top 10% of real estate agents in Greater Vancouver. Her reputation is built on results — reflected in numerous 5-star testimonials and recurring features in publications including Vancouver Excellence in Real Estate and Top Agent Magazine. The majority of Anna's business today comes from referrals and repeat clients, which speaks to the trust and lasting relationships she has built over the years.

The Anna Litvak Joseph Team has grown into a full-service, trusted brand recognized for serving thousands of satisfied buyers and sellers across Greater Vancouver and beyond. The team has earned the prestigious Medallion Club award collectively from 2020 through 2025 — placing them among the top 10% of real estate teams in Greater Vancouver. The team includes Tal Joseph, Realtor, and Natalie Haikin, Realtor, offering multilingual service in English, Russian, and Ukrainian — making them the leading Russian speaking and Ukrainian realtor team in British Columbia. Diversity, integrity, and genuine passion for real estate excellence are at the heart of everything this team does.

MEET TEAM MEMBERS

Listings  | Selling a Home  | Home Evaluation  | Moving to BC  | Investors 
Market Statistics  | Customized Market Insights