Coquitlam rents fell 4.4% year-over-year while condo benchmarks dropped 8.8% — yet buying still requires clearing a mortgage stress test at 6.3%. liv.rent breaks down what these shifts mean for BC renters weighing whether to stay in their lease or enter the Tri-Cities housing market in 2026, with current RTB rules, price benchmarks, and first-time buyer programs explained.