Introduction
Best Leading Indicator Trend: Vacancy Rate
From:
- CMHC
- BC Housing
- Municipal housing reports
Why Vacancy Rate Is Critical
| Vacancy rate trend | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Falling | Rent will rise |
| Rising | Rent will flatten or fall |
For comparison
| Vacancy | Market condition |
|---|---|
| <1% | Crisis level shortage |
| 1–2% | Landlord market |
| 2–3% | Balanced |
| >3% | Renter market |
Vacancy predicts rent trend 6–12 months ahead.