North Van detached homes sold down by 32% from last year, attached (t/homes) down 22% and apartments down by 34% from ‘08. Detached average prices -18% and inventory Apr 30th, up by 11%. Average prices down 15% (t/hse) and down by 19% (apts). Inventory (t/hse) 48% higher than ’08 and (apt) down from ‘08 by 2%. While still higher than last year,  these inventories are starting to subside. Demand and the general level of sales, however, is clearly increasing month by month.

 In West Van, detached number of sales YTD has dropped, Apr 30th by 36% from ‘08. Average price down 24% and inventory Apr 30th up 2% over ‘08. On the condo side – attached (t/hses) sold has dropped to 4 vs 23 units last year; average price down 32%.  Active listings are marginally up from ‘08 (43 vs. 42).  Apartments sold reflect a 37% drop YTD vs ‘08; with average price down 19% and active listings up 53% from ‘08.

 Overall North Shore demand is improving (confidence certainly returning) with almost all inventories higher than this time last year. April is markedly the strongest month thus far in 2009 and the “bargain basement” purchases evident in the past few months are becoming scarcer – i.e. cheeky, low ball offers are receiving less respect! Remember too, as I’ve said before, a lower average price for one 4 month period vs the corresponding period a year before may well be distorted if a case can be made for generally “lower end” homes being the ones that are selling.

 Again, visit my website to see and “hear” the new developments.  Continue my commitment to keep you... www.OnTopOfTheMarket.ca - the “go to” site for North Shore Real Estate analysis and jumping off point for FULL market listing information.

 To join the group getting the e-mail version of this “update” - send a request now to This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it and you’ll be assured receipt; phone me at (604) 988-7368 or visit www.OnTopOfTheMarket.ca

 Alan