If you’ve received your 2026 BC Assessment in the mail or checked it online, you might be wondering:
- Is my home really worth this much?
- Should I sell now?
- Is this number accurate for today’s market?
Let’s break it down — because BC Assessment value and market value are not the same thing.
What Is BC Assessment?
Your BC Assessment is prepared by BC Assessment for taxation purposes only.
Key things to know:
The value is based on an estimated market value as of July 1 of the previous year
It uses mass appraisal models, not individual home inspections
It does not reflect recent upgrades, renovations, or current buyer demand
It’s designed to ensure fair property taxation, not to price homes for sale
In short: BC Assessment is a starting point, not a pricing strategy.
Why BC Assessment ≠ Market Value
Market value is what a buyer is willing to pay today — not last summer.
Here’s what market value actually considers:
- Recent comparable sales (often from the last 30–90 days)
- Current inventory and buyer competition
- Interest rates and buyer affordability
- Condition, layout, lot, views, renovations, and location nuances
- Emotional factors (yes — buyers pay for feeling)
BC Assessment can’t account for:
- A new kitchen, roof, or suite
- Deferred maintenance
- Lake views vs. road noise
- A hot micro-neighbourhood vs. a quiet pocket
That’s why two identical BC Assessments can produce very different sale prices.
Why Your Assessment Might Feel “High” or “Low”
If it feels high:
The market may have shifted since the valuation date, or buyers are being more price-sensitive today.
If it feels low:
Your home may have improved, or buyer demand in your area has increased.
Neither situation automatically means your property taxes will skyrocket — remember, taxes are based on your value relative to others, not just your number alone.
Should You Use BC Assessment to Price Your Home?
Short answer: No — not on its own.
Overpricing based on BC Assessment can cause:
- Longer days on market
- Fewer showings
- Price reductions later
Underpricing without understanding the market can mean:
- Leaving money on the table
- Missed negotiation leverage
A proper market evaluation blends data and real-world buyer behaviour.
Want to Know What Your Home Is Actually Worth?
If you’re curious how your BC Assessment compares to today’s market value, I’m happy to prepare a no-pressure, local market evaluation that reflects:
Current buyer demand
Recent comparable sales
Your home’s specific features
Your goals (selling now, later, or just staying informed)
📩 Just reply to this email or send me a quick message — even if you’re simply curious.
Being informed puts you in control, whether you’re selling next month or years from now.