Market Snapshot

• Sales Activity
  In June, 1,195 homes were sold in the Fraser Valley MLS®—a slight 1% increase from May, but still about 9% lower than June 2024 and 33% below the 10‑year average .

• Buyer’s Market in Full Swing
  Inventory continues to swell, with nearly 11,000 active listings—2% more than May and 30% higher than last year. Meanwhile, new listings dropped by 10% month-over-month to 3,618 . With a sales-to-active-listings ratio of 11%, the market remains firmly in buyer territory (a balanced market sits between 12–20%) .

Price Trends

• Overall Benchmark Price
  Prices have eased slightly, with the composite benchmark in the Fraser Valley dipping 1.2% from May to land at $951,500 .

• By Property Type

  • Detached homes: $1,458,600 (–1.6% from May; –4.6% year-over-year)

  • Townhomes: $824,400 (–1.0% from May; –3.1% from June 2024)

  • Condo/apts: $526,500 (–1.2% from May; –4.5% from previous June)

Days to Sell (Average)

• Detached homes: 35 days

• Townhomes: 30 days

• Condos: 39 days

Regional Highlights

• Surrey experienced a 7% drop in total sales year-over-year; benchmark prices for detached homes fell to $1.573 million and condos to $513,800 .

• White Rock / South Surrey recorded a 33% jump in detached home sales, though benchmark prices eased by over 6% to $1.846 million .

What It All Means for Buyers & Sellers

For Buyers

This is a strong buyer’s market. With ample choices, slower sales, and declining prices, conditions are favourable—especially for first-time buyers who can tolerate economic uncertainties .

For Sellers

Reduced demand means listings are taking longer to move. To stand out, sellers may need to price competitively and differentiate their homes through thoughtful staging and marketing.

Looking Ahead

Economic uncertainty—driven by trade, tariffs, and broader market forces—continues to weigh on buyer confidence . The Fraser Valley Real Estate Board suggests this could be an opportune moment for policymakers to reassess current housing strategies to better align with today’s realities .

In Summary

• Sales: Slight monthly increase, but down annually and compared to the decade average

• Inventory: Rising supply with decreasing new listings makes for a competitive buyer landscape

• Pricing: Modest month-over-month dips across all housing types

• Pace of Market: Homes are selling more slowly than in the past

If you're considering entering the market, now may be a strategic time—whether buying or selling—with the caveat of heightened economic caution.

Fraser Valley Real Estate – May 2025 Breakdown

Just like in the pages of Where’s Waldo?, opportunity in today’s real estate market is right in front of us — just hidden in the chaos.

You flip the page, stare at the crowd, and think, “There’s nothing here”… until suddenly, boom — there he is.
That’s exactly what the Fraser Valley market feels like right now.

Let’s cut through the noise and show you where the smart money is moving.

🎯 First-Time Buyers: You're Not Selling — That’s Power

If you're entering the market for the first time, you're not weighed down by selling in a slower climate.

• Inventory is up 34% from last year → you’ve got choice

• Detached prices are down, and sellers are flexible

• You qualify for First-Time Buyer Programs (PTT break, 5% down, etc. NO GST ON NEW BUILDS)

👉 Opportunity: You’ve got timing, leverage, and options. That’s rare — use it.

🏡 Upsizers: Townhouses Are Holding. Detached Homes Are Discounted.

The market is rewarding the move-up buyer:

• Townhomes: Barely moved (down just 0.03% month-over-month)

• Detached Homes: Down 1.6% this month, and 6.2% year-over-year

• High inventory = more selection, less competition

👉 Opportunity: Sell your townhouse while values are steady, and buy a house while they’re on sale.

💸 Investors: Soft Prices + Strong Rental Demand = Prime Time

The headlines say slowdown — but landlords see strength:

• Rental demand is up (buyers waiting on the sidelines)

• Detached + apartment prices are down

• Find suited homes or light reno properties → cash flow, hold, gain

👉 Opportunity: Use today's pricing + tomorrow’s rental income = long-term win.

🧰 Value-Add Buyers: Ugly Ducklings = Hidden Gold

This market is full of overlooked potential:

• Dated listings = stale listings = negotiation opportunities

• Cosmetic updates yield huge upside in a soft market

• Pair with staging and smart prep and you've got a flip or equity-builder

👉 Opportunity: Find the stuff others scroll past. Fix it. Build wealth.

🔍 Final Word: Waldo Was Always There — So Is Opportunity

The people who win in this market are the ones who know what to look for.

• It’s not always shiny.

• It’s not always obvious.

• But it’s always there — if you’ve got the right guide.

📲 Ready to find yours? Let’s talk.

Turns out…a lot more than you’d think.

For Evan Bird, a 25-year veteran of the White Rock Fire Department and a partner at Collab Realty Group, the similarities are uncanny. Both professions might seem worlds apart, but at their core, they share some surprising parallels:

1️⃣ Seldom Home for Dinner

Whether it’s a late-night emergency call or a last-minute real estate deal, both careers seem to have an aversion to scheduled meal times. The unpredictability of the job means dinner plans often take a back seat, but when you're committed to serving your community, you show up—no matter the hour.

2️⃣ At the Sound of a Bell, It’s Go-Time

Whether it’s the fire station alarm or the buzz of a new listing hitting the market, it’s the same routine: sprinting out the door, sometimes with pants only halfway on. In both roles, when duty calls, you’re up and moving—often before the coffee’s finished brewing.

3️⃣ Putting Out Fires (Literally and Figuratively)

In firefighting, it’s the blazing kind. In real estate, it’s the “I need to move in 30 days and my financing just fell through” kind. Either way, problem-solving on the fly is just part of the job description. Evan’s used to facing the unexpected and keeping a cool head under pressure—whether it’s holding a fire hose or navigating a tricky negotiation.

A Career of Service

All jokes aside, firefighting taught Evan the values of service, trust, and community, which are now the backbone of Collab Realty Group. Our team was built on those same foundations—putting people first, always answering the call, and being there when it matters most.

Evan recently received the British Columbia Long Service Award in recognition of his 25 years of dedication to the White Rock Fire Department. It’s an incredible milestone that reflects his unwavering commitment to his community. We couldn’t be prouder to have him as a partner, bringing that same dedication to helping people find their homes.

Whether he’s putting out literal fires or guiding clients through the challenges of the real estate market, Evan approaches every situation with the same passion and integrity.

Congratulations, Evan, and thank you for your service. We’re grateful to have you as part of the Collab Realty Group family.

#CollabRealtyGroup #FromFirefighterToRealtor #BuiltOnService #CommunityStrong #WhiteRockFireDepartment #25YearsOfService

Buying your first home is exciting—but it can also be overwhelming. In a competitive market like South Surrey and White Rock, preparation is everything. That’s where Collab Realty Group comes in.

We believe first-time homebuyers deserve:

• Education on the local market

• Clear guidance on the buying process

• Access to trusted affiliates like mortgage brokers, inspectors, and contractors

Here’s how we make it simple.

🎉 Perks of Being a First-Time Homebuyer in BC (2025 Update)

Buying your first home comes with several financial advantages designed to make homeownership more accessible:

🏡 Property Transfer Tax (PTT) Exemption

As a first-time homebuyer in British Columbia, you may be eligible for a full or partial exemption from the Property Transfer Tax, potentially saving you thousands of dollars:

• Full exemption for homes with a fair market value up to $835,000.

• Partial exemption for homes valued between $835,000 and $860,000.

🏠 Newly Built Home Exemption

If you're purchasing a newly constructed home, you might qualify for an additional PTT exemption:

• Full exemption for newly built homes priced up to $1,100,000.

• Partial exemption for homes valued between $1,100,000 and $1,150,000.

💰 First Home Savings Account (FHSA)

The FHSA allows first-time homebuyers to save up to $40,000 tax-free toward their home purchase.

🧾 Home Buyers' Tax Credit (HBTC)

You can claim a non-refundable tax credit of up to $1,500 on your federal income tax for the year you purchase your first home.

🏦 30-Year Mortgage Amortization for First-Time Buyers

First-time homebuyers can access insured mortgages with 30-year amortization periods, reducing monthly payments.

🏡 Step 1: Market Education

Before you step foot in a showing, we make sure you understand the local market dynamics:

• Average home prices in South Surrey & White Rock

• Popular neighborhoods like Ocean Park, Grandview Heights, and Crescent Beach

• Insight into strata properties vs. detached homes

💡 Step 2: Mortgage Introduction

We introduce you to our trusted mortgage brokers, who help with:

• Pre-approvals

• Rate shopping

• Understanding fixed vs. variable rates

🔎 Step 3: Finding the Right Home

We work with you to identify:

• Must-haves vs. nice-to-haves

• Neighborhood insights, including school catchments and walkability

• Off-market opportunities and new listings

🔨 Step 4: Access to Trusted Affiliates

To make your journey smoother, we connect you with:

• Home Inspectors – thorough inspections for peace of mind

• Contractors & Handymen – quick fixes and renovations

• Insurance Agents – to secure the best rates and coverage

📝 Step 5: Offer & Negotiation

When it’s time to write the offer, we handle:

• Strategic pricing analysis

• Professional negotiation to protect your interests

• Clear explanations of subject clauses and next steps

📌 Why Work with Collab Realty Group?

As top-ranked realtors in the Fraser Valley, we pride ourselves on:

• Client education before you even step into a property

• Proven negotiation skills to get you the best deal

• A network of affiliates you can trust

Ready to Take the First Step?

Buying your first home should be exciting—not stressful. Let us guide you through the process with confidence, clarity, and the connections you need to succeed.

📞 Let’s chat about your homeownership goals:
www.collabgroup.ca

Top Schools in South Surrey & White Rock (2025 Edition)

If you’re moving to South Surrey or White Rock and education is a top priority, you’re not alone. One of the biggest reasons families relocate to this area is access to high-quality schools — from public and private to French immersion and IB programs.

As local realtors with deep ties to the community, we’re often asked:
“What are the best schools in the area?”
So we’ve pulled together this updated 2025 guide to help you choose the right fit for your family.

📚 Top Public Elementary Schools

1. École Peace Arch Elementary

• Type: Public / French Immersion

• Grades: K–7

• Highlights: Strong academic reputation, early French immersion, walkable White Rock location

• Fraser Institute Rating: 7.2/10

2. Chantrell Creek Elementary

• Type: Public

• Grades: K–7

• Highlights: Located in Elgin, highly rated, strong community involvement

• Fraser Institute Rating: 8.0/10

3. Rosemary Heights Elementary

• Type: Public

• Grades: K–7

• Highlights: Modern facility, progressive learning focus, popular with young families in Morgan Creek

🏫 Top Public Secondary Schools

1. Semiahmoo Secondary School

• Type: Public

• Grades: 8–12

• Program: International Baccalaureate (IB)

• Highlights: One of the most academically rigorous public schools in BC

• Fraser Institute Rating: 8.4/10

2. Elgin Park Secondary

• Type: Public

• Grades: 8–12

• Highlights: Known for arts & athletics, strong leadership programs, and excellent university prep

🏆 Top Private & Independent Schools

1. Southridge School

• Type: Private / Independent

• Grades: K–12

• Highlights: Uniforms, small class sizes, robust academics, high university acceptance rates

• Tuition: $20,000–$25,000/year

• Waitlist: Apply early — highly competitive

2. White Rock Christian Academy (WRCA)

• Type: Private Christian

• Grades: K–12

• Program: IB World School

• Highlights: Faith-based education, IB programs, growing facilities, inclusive community

🌐 French Immersion Options

South Surrey & White Rock offer several early and late French immersion options, including:

• École Peace Arch Elementary (K–7)

• Laronde Elementary (K–7)

• École Earl Marriott Secondary (8–12) — continues French immersion stream

💡 Things to Consider When Choosing a School

• Catchment Areas: Your address matters — double-check with the school district before buying.

• Program Type: Public, private, French, or IB? Prioritize what fits your child's needs.

• Walkability & Commute: A great school is even better when it's nearby.

• Future Pathways: Consider the high school-to-university trajectory.

🎓 Final Thoughts

South Surrey and White Rock are home to some of the top-rated schools in BC, making it an ideal place for families looking to plant long-term roots. Whether you're looking for advanced academics, faith-based education, or French immersion, this area offers something for everyone.

At Collab Realty Group, we help families find the right home in the right school catchment. If you're planning a move and school rankings are part of the decision, we’ll help you make an informed, strategic choice.

📞 Let’s chat about finding your ideal home in the perfect school zone.

Thinking of listing your home? The South Surrey and White Rock markets are competitive — and first impressions matter. The good news? With the right preparation, you can increase your sale price, reduce time on market, and feel more confident when the offers roll in.

At Collab Realty Group, we guide sellers through a structured 10-step process. Whether you’re selling a beachfront bungalow or a family home in Morgan Creek, this pre-listing checklist will help you get market-ready with no steps missed.

✅ 1. Pre-Listing Home Inspection

Before a buyer finds a flaw, you should know it first. A pre-listing inspection lets you:

• Uncover issues before they affect negotiations

• Avoid price reductions or conditional offers

• Show buyers you’ve done your due diligence

🧰 2. Handle Repairs & Minor Updates

Focus on high-impact, low-cost fixes:

• Patch drywall holes or cracks

• Re-caulk bathrooms & kitchens

• Replace burnt-out bulbs, leaky faucets, or squeaky doors

• Refresh paint where needed (neutral tones sell best!)

Need help? We can connect you with trusted local trades to get it done efficiently.

🧼 3. Deep Clean & Declutter

This step is non-negotiable.

• Clean every surface (baseboards, windows, appliances)

• Clear counters, closets, and storage spaces

• Rent a storage unit if needed — the goal is to make your home feel spacious and fresh

🛋️ 4. Stage Your Home (Even Lightly)

Professional staging helps buyers emotionally connect. At minimum:

• Reposition furniture to open up space

• Add soft textures (pillows, throws, area rugs)

• Use lighting to highlight key features

• Remove overly personal items (family photos, unique art)

We offer complimentary staging consultations with every listing.

📸 5. Hire a Realtor with a Proven Marketing Strategy

Your agent should:

• Use professional photography & videography

• Offer floorplans, social media reels, and paid ad exposure

• Price the home strategically based on data (not just a guess)

At Collab Realty Group, we build a full digital + in-person marketing campaign for each home.

🗂️ 6. Gather Your Documents

Before you list, prepare:

• Title, strata docs (if applicable), and past permits

• Utility bills, floor plans, or survey certificates

• Warranty info for roof, appliances, or major systems

We’ll help organize this into your seller disclosure package.

Ready to List with Confidence?

Selling your home doesn’t have to be overwhelming — not when you have a proven system and a dedicated team behind you.

📍Based in White Rock and South Surrey, Collab Realty Group offers strategic preparation, honest guidance, and results-driven marketing.

💬 Thinking of selling this year? Let’s have a conversation about how to get you top dollar, faster.

Buying or selling a home is one of the most important financial decisions you’ll ever make—and in a competitive market like South Surrey, the realtor you choose can make or break your outcome.

At Collab Realty Group, we’ve seen the difference the right representation can make. But not all agents are created equal—and flashy marketing or a big name doesn’t always mean better service.

So how do you know if you’re working with the best? Start by asking these 5 essential questions:

1. Do You Specialize in South Surrey & White Rock?

Real estate is local—ultra-local. You need someone who knows the neighbourhoods inside and out, from Ocean Park and Grandview to Crescent Beach and Rosemary Heights.
✔️ They should understand local pricing trends, school catchments, builder reputations, and even street-by-street nuances.
At Collab, we live and work in South Surrey and White Rock—this is our backyard.

2. What’s Your Process for Buying or Selling a Home?

Top agents have systems—not just opinions. Ask:

• Do they use a proven step-by-step strategy?

• Do they walk you through timelines, market prep, inspections, and negotiation?

• Can they break it down in a way that makes sense to you?

We follow a 10-step buyer and seller program that brings clarity and structure to every move.

3. What Marketing Strategies Do You Use to Attract Buyers?

If you’re selling, this is crucial. The best South Surrey realtors go beyond a sign on the lawn. Look for:

• Professional photography & staging

• Social media marketing

• Google and YouTube ads

• Pre-inspections and floor plans

• High-quality brochures and signage

Ask for examples—and don’t settle for outdated methods.

4. How Will You Negotiate on My Behalf?

Whether you're buying or selling, your realtor needs to be a strong negotiator who:

• Understands market leverage

• Protects your financial interests

• Can spot red flags in offers or listings

At Collab, we’re known for doing the hard work upfront, so when it’s time to write or receive an offer, our clients are ready—and in control.

5. Can I Read Recent Client Reviews or Speak to Past Clients?

This one’s simple: reputation matters. Don’t be afraid to ask for reviews, testimonials, or even speak to a past client. Great agents will have nothing to hide—and plenty of happy clients willing to vouch for them.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best realtor in South Surrey isn’t about flash—it’s about fit, strategy, and results. Whether you’re buying your first home or selling your family property, you deserve an agent who’s committed to your success.

👋 At Collab Realty Group, we bring a client-first approach, local expertise, and a systematic process to every transaction. If you're ready to make a move in South Surrey or White Rock, let’s connect.