BC Realtors See Wider Uncertainty, Possible Slowdown Following Aboriginal Title Claim Ruling

Farmland and houses along No. 6 Road, which fall within the boundaries of a Cowichan Nation Aboriginal title claim, are seen in an aerial view in Richmond, B.C., on Aug.2 22, 2025. The Canadian Press/Darryl Dyck

The Cowichan decision granting aboriginal title to an area in Richmond, B.C., has real estate industry leaders concerned about how uncertainty could affect the market in that region.

The Aug. 7 ruling recognizing Cowichan Nation’s aboriginal title to approximately 7.5 square kilometres of land in southeast Richmond has put the finality and binding nature of property transactions into doubt, B.C. Real Estate Association CEO Trevor Koot says.