WHY FARMLAND IS GAINING GROUND LOCALLY AND ACROSS BC
Interest in BC farmland is growing—and not just among large-scale operators. In a recent Western Investor feature, real estate professionals report that buyers are returning to agricultural land as a stable, long-term investment. The focus is shifting away from quick resale toward land banking, lifestyle potential, and legacy-building. Even with fewer listings on the market, demand remains steady, especially for well-located parcels with flexible zoning and infrastructure in place.
🔍 What’s Driving the Trend?
In a time of rising costs and economic uncertainty, farmland is being viewed as a tangible, inflation-resistant asset. Buyers are also factoring in lifestyle goals, such as space for home businesses, multi-generational living, or sustainable food production. With urban land prices holding firm, rural acreage offers both breathing room and opportunity.
🌄 Sunshine Coast: Quietly in Demand
Here on the Coast, the numbers tell a compelling story. There are currently 62 active listings zoned AG, RU1, RU2, CR1, or CR2, including 18 land-only parcels. So far this year, 18 of these property types have sold, with 5 sales recorded in May alone—demonstrating stronger performance than many other property types.
What’s more telling is the nature of buyer inquiries: zoning, water access, agricultural viability, and long-term use are all front and centre. Buyers aren’t just looking—they’re planning. That’s a meaningful shift from speculation to purposeful ownership.
🧠Zoning That Supports Agricultural Use
Several Sunshine Coast zoning types support agricultural activity, home-based businesses, and flexible rural living:
AG (Agriculture): Supports farming, livestock, greenhouses, and primary residences. Often located within the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR).
RU1 & RU2 (Rural Residential): Allow for some agricultural uses alongside residential and accessory dwellings.
CR1 & CR2 (Country Residential): Great for hobby farms, gardens, orchards, and keeping animals—perfect for lifestyle acreage.
Understanding zoning is critical—because permitted uses often vary not just by zone, but by lot size. The ability to build a second dwelling, keep livestock, or operate a farm-based business might depend on minimum acreage thresholds or ALR regulations. We work closely with clients to clarify how zoning applies to a specific parcel, so the land’s use aligns with their long-term vision.
Whether you're looking for a peaceful homestead, a working farm, or an investment with room to grow, we can help you:
- Identify parcels with the right zoning, services, and potential
- Understand buildability, ALR implications, and value paths
- Strategically position land for sale, if you’re a current owner
Farmland is more than a retreat—it’s becoming a smart, purposeful choice for buyers who want space, sustainability, and long-term value. CLICK HERE to look at farmland for sale on the coast
📞 778-229-7694 | ✉️ manley.york@sothebysrealty.ca