If you’ve been browsing listings late at night, scrolling through dream kitchens and wondering where to start, you’re not alone.Buying a home is exciting, but it also comes with a lot of questions. Over the years, I’ve noticed the same handful come up time and again ...whether it’s a first condo in Vancouver’s West End, a family home or a lifestyle purchase on Bowen Island.
Here are the five most common questions buyers ask (and my real-world answers) to help you make confident, informed choices.
1. How much can I actually afford?
It’s easy to get swept up in the charm of a listing and lose sight of what’s comfortable long-term. The truth is, your budget isn’t just what the bank says you can borrow, it’s what you’ll feel comfortable paying every month.
Remember, the mortgage payment is one thing, then, factor in other costs: insurance, strata fees, property taxes, utilities, and even the little lifestyle touches that make home feel good.
My take: “Comfort matters more than the max number your lender gives you. Aim for peace of mind, not just the mortgage payment.”
2. When is the best time to buy?
The market has its rhythms, but the right time to buy often depends on your personal timing. Traditionally, spring brings more listings and competition, while fall can offer motivated sellers and fewer bidding wars.
Right now, in neighbourhoods like the West End, I’m seeing steady activity and balanced opportunities, meaning buyers have time to think, but good homes are still moving.
My take: “The best time to buy is when you’re ready, educated, and have the right support - not when the headlines say it’s perfect.”
3. Should I wait for prices to drop?
This one’s tricky — and common. Many buyers hold off, hoping for “the dip.” But markets rarely move in straight lines. Waiting can sometimes cost more if interest rates change or your buying power decreases. And every month you hold off is another month you could have been paying into your own equity.
My take: “Trying to time the market is like trying to catch the tide, you might miss the wave that was meant for you.”
If you find a home that fits your life and long-term goals, that’s the moment to act!
4. What should I look for during a showing?
Beyond paint colours and staging, focus on the things you can’t easily change - the light, the layout, the sound, and the feel of the building.
In the case of buying a condo I always encourage clients to carefully review strata documents to find out if there are any recurring issues or any upcoming projects that will be out of pocket costs.
For single family homes check maintenance history, windows, roof etc. On Bowen, I’ll point out water and septic systems, driveway grades, and exposure to the elements... all details that matter for island living.
Pro tip: “Ask yourself how the space makes you feel. Do you exhale when you walk in? That’s usually a good sign.”
5. How do I make my offer stand out?
In a competitive market, little things can make a big difference. A clean, well-presented offer, flexible dates, or a short personal note to the seller can help your offer rise to the top. The fewer the subjects the better, but it makes me cringe to think of buying a home without an inspection and without a financing clause.
In today's market it's more 'buyer friendly' and these conditions are common and expected. In a more competitive market it's important to have a home inspector on hand and a mortgage broker on call (one that you're fully pre-approved with of course ;)
My take: “When two offers are close, it’s often the professionalism and tone that win the seller’s confidence - not just the price.”
Having an experienced Realtor on your side can also make your offer package feel calm, credible, and compelling.
Final Thoughts
Buying a home isn’t just a transaction, It’s where your next chapter begins, and my goal is to make that process feel grounded, clear, and even a little joyful.
If you’d like a personalized guide to buying in Vancouver’s West End or on Bowen Island, I’d love to help you find your match.
📩 Let’s start with a conversation.
Send me a note or follow along on Instagram [@angiekirkhomes] for more insight into Vancouver’s most livable corners.
