Real Estate Market Report: Q1 2026

Let’s talk about the Whistler and Pemberton real estate markets in the first quarter of 2026. 

Whistler

While the first quarter of 2026 showed some improvement over the fourth quarter of 2025, it was weaker than the sales activity seen in Q1 2025. Listing levels compared to the same time last year were mixed, with slight increases in townhomes and condos, while chalet and shared ownership inventory saw marginal declines.

A closer comparison between Q1 2025 and 2026 suggests that uncertainty surrounding global economic and political conditions may be impacting buyer confidence. With the exception of the townhome segment, all other market segments experienced a decline in sales volume. Chalet, condo, and shared ownership sales decreased between 13% and 19%, while townhomes stood out with a 26% increase in sales activity.Total sales for the quarter reached 115 transactions. With a relatively small data set, it remains difficult to draw firm conclusions on overall market direction and buyer sentiment.

Pemberton

With a milder winter and potentially reduced winter travel due to broader political uncertainty, the Pemberton real estate market is seeing an early start to the spring buying and selling season.

Listing levels increased for single-family homes and condos, while townhomes continue to be an elusive commodity and vacant land inventory remains virtually unchanged. Ongoing supply constraints—particularly in the single-family and townhome segments—persist, with no significant new construction on the immediate horizon. Condo inventory has increased modestly, with eight active listings compared to four in Q1 2025, while vacant land supply remains steady.

Single-family home sales increased by 167% year-over-year; however, this represents eight sales compared to three during the same period last year. While modest in volume, this is an encouraging signal for the months ahead. Townhome sales declined, largely due to limited inventory, while condo sales remained consistent and vacant land saw one additional sale. Notably, there have been five vacant land sales over the past six months, indicating growing confidence in future development.

*excluding parking stalls

Market Share

Whistler Real Estate Company agents represented 35% of the Whistler and Pemberton market in the first quarter of 2026 and helped our clients achieve amazing outcomes.

As Whistler & Pemberton’s premier real estate company, our agents have the knowledge, expertise, and dedication to assist whether you are selling, buying or want up-to-date guidance on the market conditions.

Regulatory Notes

Foreign Buyers Ban

As previously noted, the Foreign Buyer Ban does not apply to the Whistler or Pemberton markets, nor does the Foreign Buyer Tax.

Residential Tenancy Act Changes

On July 18, 2024 there were significant changes to the Residential Tenancy Act that those who own or are looking to sell or purchase tenant occupied properties should be aware of.  Some of the key changes include: 

• Mandatory landlord use of a new web portal to generate Notices to End Tenancy for personal or caretaker use
• Extended notice period
• The individual moving into the property must occupy it for at least 12 months

It is strongly advised that you seek legal advice to navigate these new regulations effectively if you plan to proceed with a transaction involving tenant-occupied property to ensure compliance with the new rules and ensuring understanding of rights and obligations of the parties involved. More information regarding these changes can be found on the BC Government Website. 

Small-Scale Multi Unit Housing

The provincial government has introduced new housing legislation to update zoning rules to deliver more small-scale, multi-unit (SSMU) housing, with the intended objective of building more homes faster. In most municipalities of more than 5,000 people, these changes can allow for 3-4 units permitted on lots currently zoned for single-family or duplex use, depending on lot size, however strata bylaws may impact this. Get in touch with your local Whistler Real Estate Company agent to learn more about how this may impact your Whistler or Pemberton property or property of interest.

BC Home Flipping Tax

As of January 1, 2025, the BC Home Flipping Tax has come into effect. Please note, this provincial tax is distinct from the existing Federal Property Flipping Tax and specifically targets short-term property sales. Some of the details include:

• The tax applies to income from sales of residential properties, presale contracts, or assignments owned for less than two years
• The rate starts at 20% for sales within 365 days of ownership, decreasing to 0% at 730 days
• This tax applies to any person or entity (individual, corporation, partnership, or trust) selling property within BC, regardless of residency
• Exemptions include certain primary residences

To review all the details, please visit the BC Government Website, as well as the BC Real Estate Association website for a breakdown of the new tax, as well as a comparison with the current Federal Flipping Tax.