Do new condo developments require presale deposits?

Understanding Presale Deposit Requirements

In many new condo developments, buyers are required to provide a presale deposit when they sign a purchase agreement. The deposit is a commitment toward the purchase price and is commonly paid in instalments according to the terms set out in the contract. However, deposit requirements are not identical for every project, so purchasers should review the specific agreement and disclosure materials before making a commitment.

In British Columbia, a presale deposit structure may call for a percentage of the purchase price at signing, followed by additional payments at defined dates or construction milestones. The total amount and payment schedule can vary based on the development, market conditions, and the developer’s sales program. Deposits for qualifying presale projects are generally held in trust or otherwise protected in accordance with applicable legal requirements, but buyers should confirm how their funds will be handled in the documents for the individual development.

  • Read the contract carefully: Confirm the total deposit, instalment dates, permitted payment methods, and any consequences of a missed payment.
  • Review the disclosure statement: This document provides important project details, including the developer, proposed completion information, and purchaser rights.
  • Understand rescission rights: B.C. presale purchasers may have a limited period to cancel after receiving the disclosure statement. Obtain independent legal advice promptly if you are considering a purchase.
  • Plan for timing changes: Construction schedules and completion dates can change. Make sure your financing and deposit plan can accommodate the contract terms.
  • Ask clear questions: A developer’s sales representative, your real estate professional, lawyer, or notary can help clarify details that affect your decision.

It is also important to distinguish between a presale condo purchase and rental living. Purpose-built rental communities are intended for residents who are leasing a home, not purchasing a strata unit before completion. Rental applications and tenancy agreements have different requirements from a condo presale contract, including rules around any permitted deposits.

Vittori Developments focuses on thoughtfully planned, purpose-built rental living and mixed-use communities designed for people and long-term neighbourhood value. If you are exploring a new rental home rather than a condo purchase, you can view available rentals or contact our team for current project information. For a condo presale, consult the project’s official disclosure materials and qualified legal or financial professionals before signing.

Related FAQs

Outlook for 2027 No one can predict the Vancouver condo market in 2027 with certainty, but the city’s long-term housing fundamentals point to continued demand for well-located, high-quality homes. Population growth, limited land supply, employment access, transit investment, and Vancouver’s appeal as a place to live are likely to keep pressure on housing availability. The […]

Understanding How Vacancy Tax Affects New Condos Vacancy tax, often referred to as an empty homes tax, is intended to encourage property owners to place their homes on the rental market rather than keep them unoccupied. For new condos, whether or not vacancy tax applies can depend on factors such as your municipal regulations, the […]

Understanding When Vacancy Tax Applies to an Empty Condo The vacancy tax usually applies when a residential property, such as a condo, remains unoccupied for most of the year. In many cities, this requirement typically means the unit is neither rented out nor used as a primary residence for over six months within a calendar […]

Yes, We Build Condominiums with a Purpose While purpose-built rental communities are a major focus of our work, Vittori Developments also builds condominiums that balance modern living with long-term community benefits. Our approach to real estate development hinges on responsible land use, thoughtful design, and a commitment to adding genuine value to the neighbourhoods we […]

Understanding Bill 44 and Potential Bylaw Changes Many condominium owners and residents are wondering if new legislation, such as Bill 44, will require them to revise their existing bylaws. While the specifics can vary depending on regional laws and the unique provisions of each condo corporation, Bill 44 generally aims to provide updated guidelines on […]

How the Empty Homes Tax Affects Condo Owners The Vancouver Empty Homes Tax, sometimes referred to as a vacancy tax, applies to all types of residential properties, including individual condo units. The tax was introduced to encourage owners to occupy or rent out homes that might otherwise remain unoccupied for most of the year. By […]