Buy before a building is built, lock in today's price, and build equity by the time you take possession. Here's how presales work in BC.
A presale — also called a pre-construction purchase — means you're buying a property before it's completed. You sign a purchase contract with the developer today, put down a deposit, and take possession when the building is finished — typically 1 to 3 years later. In BC's market, presales have historically been one of the best ways to build equity with a relatively small initial outlay.
In many cases, buyers have seen their presale property appreciate significantly between contract signing and completion — building real equity before they even move in.
You sign at today's market price. If the market rises before completion, you gain equity without putting in more money.
Deposits are typically paid in stages (5% now, 5% at milestones) — giving you time to save while the building is under construction.
New construction means modern finishes, new appliances, updated building codes, and no costly repairs for years.
Depending on the contract, you may be able to assign (sell) your contract before completion — potentially profiting without ever taking possession.
BC's Homeowner Protection Act provides mandatory new home warranty coverage — 2 years on materials, 5 years on the building envelope, 10 years on structure.
Buying early means first pick of floor plans, floors, views, and unit selections before the best options are gone.
Presales come with unique risks that a resale purchase doesn't have. Understanding these upfront protects you.
I give you access to VIP presale launches — often days or weeks before the public — so you get first pick at the best pricing.
BC law requires developers to provide a disclosure statement. You have a 7-day rescission period after receiving it to walk away at no cost.
Select your floor plan, level, and finishes. Pay the initial deposit to secure your unit — typically 5–10% of the purchase price.
Have a real estate lawyer review the purchase and sale agreement before signing. This is non-negotiable — the contracts are developer-friendly by design.
Additional deposits (typically 5–15% in total) are paid at construction milestones — foundation, framing, etc. over the build period.
When the building receives its occupancy permit, your mortgage activates, you pay the balance, and you receive your keys.
About half my business is presales. I have direct relationships with developers across Surrey, Langley, Coquitlam, Burnaby, and New Westminster — giving my clients access to VIP pricing, unit selections, and incentives that aren't available once a project goes public. If you're serious about presales, the time to connect is before the launch.
The best presale deals are gone before the general public ever hears about them. Being on my VIP list means you're first in line with the best selection and pricing.
Get added to my VIP list and be first to hear about upcoming launches across the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley — before they go public.
Join the VIP List