Pre-Sale Guide

01 — What Is a Presale

Buying Before It's Built

A presale — also called a pre-construction purchase — means 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.

02 — The Advantages

Why Presales Make Sense

Six reasons BC buyers use presales to build wealth — and why the strategy still works in today's market.

Equity

Lock In Today's Price

You sign at today's market price. If the market rises before completion, you gain equity without putting in more money.

Cash Flow

Extended Deposit Structure

Deposits are paid in stages (5% now, 5% at milestones) — giving you time to save while the building is under construction.

Quality

Brand New Everything

Modern finishes, new appliances, updated building codes, and no costly repairs for years — everything is fresh.

Flexibility

Assignment Opportunity

Depending on the contract, you may be able to sell your contract before completion — potentially profiting without ever taking possession.

Protection

New Home Warranty

BC's Homeowner Protection Act provides mandatory warranty coverage — 2 years on materials, 5 years on the envelope, 10 years on structure.

Selection

Choice of Units

Buying early means first pick of floor plans, levels, views, and finishes before the best options are gone.

03 — Things to Know

The Key Risks and Considerations

Presales come with unique risks that a resale purchase doesn't have. Understanding these upfront protects you.

✓Completion risk — Developers can delay or, in rare cases, cancel projects. Review the disclosure statement carefully.
✓Market risk — If the market drops between signing and completion, your property may be worth less than your contract price.
✓GST applies — New builds are subject to 5% GST. For owner-occupiers, a rebate is available if the price is under certain thresholds.
✓Mortgage approval at completion — Your financing is based on market conditions at completion, not when you signed. Rate changes can affect affordability.
✓Assignment clauses — Not all contracts allow assignments. Review this with a real estate lawyer before signing.
✓Deposit exposure — Deposits are typically held in trust, but always confirm this and review rescission rights during the 7-day window.

04 — The Process

How a Presale Purchase Works

Six steps from finding the right project to receiving your keys on possession day.

Discovery

Find the Right Project

I give you VIP access to presale launches — often days or weeks before the public — so you get first pick at the best pricing.

Due Diligence

Review the Disclosure Statement

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.

Selection

Reserve Your Unit

Select your floor plan, level, and finishes. Pay the initial deposit to secure your unit — typically 5–10% of the purchase price.

Legal

Sign the Contract

Have a real estate lawyer review the purchase and sale agreement before signing. Developer contracts are developer-friendly by design — don't skip this step.

Build Phase

Stage Deposits

Additional deposits (typically 5–15% in total) are paid at construction milestones — foundation, framing, etc. — over the build period.

Possession

Completion and Possession

When the building receives its occupancy permit, your mortgage activates, you pay the balance, and you receive your keys — and your equity.

05 — My Edge

VIP Access and Developer Relationships

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.

Buying Before It's Built

Why Presales Make Sense

The Key Risks and Considerations

How a Presale Purchase Works

VIP Access and Developer Relationships

Interested in Presales?