More Inventory, Higher Prices and Increased Buyer Choice
The Invermere-area and Columbia Valley real estate market saw a noticeable shift in August 2026, with more homes available for sale and higher average prices compared with the same month last year.
According to data compiled by the Association of Interior REALTORS® for the communities covered by the report—including Invermere, Panorama, Radium Hot Springs, Fairmont, Canal Flats and Windermere—there were 454 active properties at the end of August, compared with 423 in August 2025. That represents a 7.33% increase in inventory.
For buyers, the additional inventory provides more choice and potentially more time to compare properties. For sellers, the figures highlight the importance of accurate pricing, strong presentation and a well-planned marketing strategy.
Average Sale Price Increased 35%
The average sale price in August 2026 was $666,334, up from $493,509 in August 2025. This represents a year-over-year increase of 35.02%.
The average list price also rose substantially, increasing from $522,433 to $760,105, a 45.49% increase.
While averages can be influenced by the mix of properties sold during a particular month, the increase reflects continued demand for homes, recreational properties and lifestyle real estate throughout the Columbia Valley.
Buyers should consider more than the headline average when evaluating a property. Location, property type, waterfront access, views, renovations, acreage, amenities and proximity to recreation can all create significant differences in value.
Sales Activity Was Lower
There were 38 sold listings in August 2026, compared with 58 in August 2025. This represents a 34.48% decrease in the number of sales.
New listings also declined, with 59 new properties entering the market compared with 68 in August 2025—a decrease of 13.24%.
The reduction in both sales and new listings suggests a more measured market than the same period last year. Buyers may be taking more time to make decisions, while some potential sellers may be waiting for the right conditions before listing.
Homes Took Less Time to Sell
Despite lower sales activity, the average days on market to sale declined to 89.16 days, compared with 101.84 days in August 2025. That is a 12.46% improvement.
This indicates that well-positioned properties can still attract serious buyers and sell efficiently. However, the overall market is not necessarily moving at the same pace for every property. Homes that are competitively priced and professionally marketed are more likely to stand out among the available inventory.
The average sale-to-list price ratio was 92.15%, down slightly from 93.77% last year. This means buyers, on average, purchased properties for approximately 92% of the original list price, although individual results vary considerably.
More Than 12 Months of Inventory
The Columbia Valley ended August with 12.19 months of supply, compared with 9.65 months in August 2025. This represents a 26.30% increase.
Months of supply is a measure of how long it would theoretically take to sell the current inventory based on the recent pace of sales. A higher figure generally means buyers have more selection and sellers may face greater competition.
For buyers, this can create opportunities to compare properties and negotiate terms. For sellers, it reinforces the value of:
- Pricing the property realistically from the beginning.
- Preparing the home before going to market.
- Using high-quality photography and video.
- Highlighting lifestyle features and local amenities.
- Reviewing market feedback and adjusting strategy when necessary.
What This Means for Buyers and Sellers
For Buyers
August’s results point to a market with more available inventory and greater choice than a year ago. Buyers may have additional time to conduct due diligence, compare properties and negotiate, particularly where a home has been on the market for an extended period. At the same time, desirable properties can still attract attention quickly. Buyers should be prepared with financing, understand their preferred locations and work with a REALTOR® who can help them assess market value.
For Sellers
The market remains active, but buyers are likely to be selective. A property’s condition, price and presentation can have a major effect on the result. A local pricing analysis should take into account recent comparable sales, current competition, property characteristics and the likely buyer audience. In a market with more than 12 months of supply, a strong launch strategy can make an important difference.
The Columbia Valley Market
The Invermere area continues to attract buyers looking for a combination of recreation, natural beauty and lifestyle opportunities. Communities throughout the region offer access to mountain scenery, lakes, golf, skiing, hiking, cycling and year-round outdoor activities. Whether you are considering a permanent move, recreational property, investment purchase or a future sale, understanding current market conditions is an important first step.
The August 2026 figures show a market with:
- Higher average prices.
- More active inventory.
- Fewer completed sales.
- Fewer new listings.
- Shorter average days on market.
- Increased months of supply.
- A slightly lower average sale-to-list price ratio.
Every property and transaction is different.
For advice specific to your home or buying plans, contact the Maxwell Rockies Realty team for a current market evaluation and a discussion about your goals.
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