The home-buying process can be a stressful one, especially if you are a first-time home buyer who is going through the process for the first time. While it’s important to have your finances in order and find a knowledgeable real estate agent, one factor of home-buying that sometimes gets overlooked is choosing the right neighbourhood. Kelowna is unique in that it is a true four-season playground, with no shortage of things to do, however, you’ll want to carefully choose your ideal neighbourhood to get the most bang for your buck.
We’ve highlighted a few things to consider when choosing the best neighbourhoods in Kelowna when purchasing a home.
Decide What Type of Property You Want
One of the first things you should consider when beginning your home search is the type of property you want to live in. This can have an impact on the neighbourhood you choose. If you’re looking for a smaller condo that boasts fantastic views and great amenities, then consider one of the many new buildings going up in Kelowna’s downtown area. If you’re looking for a single-family home with a great yard, then Rutland or Glenmore are definitely neighbourhoods to check out.
Consider Affordability
Affordability is arguably one of the most important considerations when deciding which neighbourhood to live in. If you are working with a smaller budget, then consider looking at neighbourhoods like Rutland and Black Mountain, which are further from the downtown core but offer fantastic, family-friendly amenities that are appealing to those with children. Alternatively, you might want to consider looking at areas just outside of Kelowna, such as Westbank and Lake Country, which still give you the Okanagan lifestyle everyone loves without the high price tag that can often come with homes in Kelowna.
Look at Liveability Factors
Liveability factors refer to the different elements of a neighbourhood that make it a great place to live, such as proximity to different amenities, schools and parks. If you have school-age children, make sure to familiarize yourself with the different schools in the area. If you’re looking to spend lots of time outdoors exploring the beautiful Okanagan, then consider neighbourhoods like Glenmore, Wilden, and Dilworth. They are just a short drive from the downtown area and offer fantastic hiking trails right in your backyard! For those who have a higher budget and are looking to be close to the beach, then the Upper Mission and Lower Mission might be exactly what you’re looking for.
Whether you’re new to Kelowna or are simply looking for a change of pace, these tips will help you choose the right neighborhood for you and your family!