Guide to 55+ Age-Restricted Stratas in North & West Vancouver
Age-restricted strata buildings—commonly referred to as 55+ communities—make up a niche but important part of the housing landscape in North and West Vancouver. These homes are typically tailored for older adults who want a quieter, lower-maintenance lifestyle, often with walkable locations and community-oriented features.
But what are the actual rules around 55 plus strata buildings? Who can live there, and are there exceptions? And what should buyers or sellers know before making a move?
This article answers common questions about age-restricted stratas and offers links to view all 55+ homes for sale and sold in North and West Vancouver.
What Is a 55+ Strata Building?
A 55+ strata building is one where the strata corporation has adopted a bylaw restricting residency to individuals aged 55 and older. These types of bylaws are permitted under B.C. legislation, but only with specific age rules and certain exemptions.
As of 2022, strata corporations are only allowed to implement 55 plus age restrictions. Other age limits—like 19+, 25+, or 40+—are no longer permitted.
It’s also important to note: age-restriction bylaws apply to who lives in the unit, not who owns it. Someone under 55 can own a 55+ condo, but they can’t move in unless they qualify under one of the exemptions below.
Can Someone Under 55 Live in a 55+ Strata?
Yes, in certain cases. Provincial legislation requires stratas with age restrictions to allow exemptions for:
- Legacy residents (those living in the unit before the bylaw passed)
- Caregivers who live with and assist a 55+ or legacy resident
- Spouses, children, and adult children of the 55+ or legacy resident, in specific circumstances
That means, for example, a 55+ homeowner can have their younger spouse or adult child living with them. Or someone under 55 who already lives in the unit when the bylaw passes can remain — even if they wouldn’t otherwise qualify.
Can I Rent Out a 55+ Condo?
Yes, you can rent out a 55+ unit, but the age restriction still applies to the tenant. In other words, the person renting must meet the same age or exemption requirements as an owner-occupier.
B.C. law no longer allows strata corporations to restrict whether you can rent your unit—but they can regulate who can live there, if a 55+ bylaw is in place. Strata corporations can also impose reasonable limits on rental length, such as minimum 30-day terms.
Are 55+ Homes in North and West Vancouver Priced Differently?
Yes — and in some important ways that buyers and sellers should understand.
Because 55+ strata properties serve a more specific demographic, they tend to have a smaller buyer pool. That can translate to better value when purchasing, especially if you're comparing similar-sized condos or townhomes in buildings without age restrictions.
But this also means that resale value is often more market-driven. These homes are frequently sold due to life events — such as a move to assisted living or after the passing of a long-time owner. In those cases, the seller (or the estate) may need to accept the market conditions at the time, regardless of whether it's a buyer’s or seller’s market.
In short:
- Buying a 55+ property often means you're getting more square footage or a better location for your dollar.
- Selling a 55+ property may involve more limited demand and less flexibility, especially if the sale is time-sensitive.
Still, many buyers prioritize the community, lifestyle, and peace of mind that come with 55+ strata buildings — and value remains strong for well-maintained units in desirable areas of North and West Vancouver.
Looking to explore pricing? Check out our active and sold listings for 55+ homes:
What Buildings Are 55+ in North or West Vancouver?
Age-restricted buildings aren’t common — but they do exist. We've created dedicated page to highlight North Shore buildings that have a 55 plus age restriction bylaw.
55+ Buildings in North Vancouver
55+ Buildings in West Vancouver
Want to See What 55 Plus homes are for sale right now?
We’ve made it easy to explore all currently listed 55+ homes in North and West Vancouver — including condos, townhomes, and select adult-oriented communities.
Tip: Because this is a smaller market segment, new listings don’t come up every day. Be sure to check back regularly — or set listing alerts by area or complex to get notified the moment a 55+ home hits the market or sells in your favourite building.
Thinking of Buying or Selling in a 55 plus Building?
Whether you're a downsizer, helping a parent transition, or listing an estate sale, navigating 55+ communities takes local knowledge and care.
It’s important to:
- Confirm the age restriction bylaw and any applicable exemptions
- Understand the building's resale history and demand
- Plan for the unique timeline and marketing considerations of this niche market
Looking for Expertise?
We work with buyers and sellers throughout North and West Vancouver — including many who've downsized, inherited, or transitioned from 55+ buildings. If you’re not sure whether a 55+ community is right for you (or how to prepare your unit for sale), we’re here to guide you.
Let’s talk about your goals and how to move forward with clarity and confidence.