When it comes to buying a presale condo in Burnaby, one of the first questions buyers ask is, “How much do I need for the deposit?” The deposit structure can make or break a deal, especially for first time buyers and investors. In 2025, developers are offering more flexibility than ever, but the numbers still vary widely depending on the project, location, and demand.
Here is a breakdown of what you can expect if you are considering a Burnaby presale condo this year.
The Standard Deposit Structure
Traditionally, Burnaby presale condos required 20 percent down before completion. This is usually broken into smaller payments, spread across the construction timeline. A common schedule looks like this:
- First deposit: 5 percent at the time of writing the contract
- Second deposit: 5 percent within 30 to 90 days
- Third deposit: 5 percent at 6 to 12 months
- Final deposit: 5 percent at 12 to 18 months or when construction reaches a major milestone
By the time the building completes in 2 to 4 years, buyers will have paid the full 20 percent.
More Flexible Options in 2025
With sales velocity slowing compared to previous years, many Burnaby developers are offering reduced deposit structures to attract buyers. Some recent projects in Brentwood and Metrotown have launched with just 10 percent total deposit, split into:
- 5 percent at contract signing
- 5 percent within 6 to 12 months
This lighter schedule can make presales more accessible to first time buyers who need more time to build savings.
Extended Deposit Timelines
Another trend is extended deposit deadlines. Instead of requiring the entire 20 percent within a year, developers may stretch payments across two or even three years. This strategy has become common in larger master planned communities in Burnaby, where developers want to keep pricing competitive while still moving inventory.
Incentives and Promotions
On top of reduced deposits, some developers are layering incentives like:
- Credit back at completion for early buyers
- Decorating allowances or upgrades in lieu of higher deposits
- Locking in deposit schedules as low as 5 percent for a limited number of homes
These strategies are becoming more frequent in 2025 as developers compete not only with other presales but also with attractive resale options nearby.
Risks to Consider
Lower deposits sound appealing, but they also come with considerations:
- Commitment: Once you sign, deposits are non refundable except under specific circumstances outlined in the disclosure statement.
- Market changes: If values soften before completion, you are still obligated to complete.
- Financing approval: You may qualify for a mortgage today, but final approval happens at completion, which could be years away.
Local Example: Brentwood vs Metrotown
In Brentwood, a recent tower launch offered a 15 percent deposit spread over 18 months. In Metrotown, a competing project attracted attention by offering just 10 percent total, with no additional payments until construction reached a certain stage. These competitive structures highlight how Burnaby developers are adjusting to current market conditions.
The Bottom Line
Deposit structures for Burnaby presale condos have become more flexible in 2025, but the standard still hovers around 15 to 20 percent. Buyers should pay close attention to the timing of payments, total deposit required, and what incentives are being offered.
For some, a lighter deposit schedule makes presales a smart entry point into the Vancouver real estate market. For others, resale condos may still offer more certainty and less risk.