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C21 Assurance Property Management Expands into Kamloops and Salmon Arm
Property owners and real estate investors in Kamloops and Salmon Arm now have another local option when it comes to professionally managing their investments.
CENTURY 21 Assurance Realty is pleased to announce the expansion of C21 Assurance Property Management into both the Kamloops and Salmon Arm markets, strengthening our ability to provide professional, locally focused property management services across the BC Interior.
The expansion brings dedicated Licensed Property Managers to each community, supported by the experience, systems, resources, and regional network of the broader C21 Assurance Property Management team.
Local Property Management in Kamloops
Our expanded Kamloops property management services are led locally by Licensed Property Manager, Tina McKay.
Tina brings hands-on property management experience, local knowledge, and a strong focus on communication and client service. After gaining experience managing luxury short-term rental properties in Whistler, Tina relocated to Kamloops and completed her licensing in rental property management.
Today, she is focused on helping residential rental owners, commercial property owners, and real estate investors throughout Kamloops and the surrounding Thompson-Nicola region protect and maximize the value of their investments.
Having a Property Manager based in the community means owners benefit from someone who understands the local market and can provide responsive support when it matters.
Expanding Our Services in Salmon Arm and the Shuswap
C21 Assurance Property Management is also expanding its presence in Salmon Arm and the surrounding Shuswap region, led locally by Licensed Property Manager, Kyle Jobin.
With strong ties to the community, Kyle brings local market knowledge together with a hands-on and detail-oriented approach to property management.
Whether working with a single rental property, commercial property, or larger investment portfolio, his focus is on protecting the owner’s investment while creating a professional and positive experience for both property owners and tenants.
For owners in Salmon Arm and the Shuswap, this means access to local support backed by a larger regional property management organization.
More Support for Property Owners and Investors
Managing a rental property involves much more than finding a tenant and collecting rent. From day-to-day communication and maintenance to documentation, inspections, and financial administration, there are many moving parts involved in protecting a real estate investment.
Our Property Management team can assist with services including:
- Tenant placement
- Rent collection
- Property inspections
- Maintenance coordination
- Lease administration
- Financial reporting
- Ongoing communication with property owners and tenants
The goal is simple: provide owners with professional support while helping protect the long-term value of their properties.
Local Service, Backed by Regional Experience
Earlier this year, CENTURY 21 Assurance Realty and Executives Property Management joined forces to create C21 Assurance Property Management.
The partnership brought together Executives Property Management’s operational experience and leadership with the regional network, systems, and resources of CENTURY 21 Assurance Realty.
Expanding into Kamloops and Salmon Arm is the next step in that growth.
By combining local Property Managers who know their communities with an experienced regional team behind them, we can provide property owners with the personal service of a local company and the resources of a larger organization.
It also creates a more connected real estate experience for investors. Whether you’re considering purchasing an investment property, need professional management for a property you already own, or eventually decide it’s time to sell, CENTURY 21 Assurance can provide support throughout the different stages of property ownership.
Own a Rental Property in Kamloops or Salmon Arm?
Whether you manage your property yourself, currently work with another management company, or are considering purchasing an investment property, it never hurts to understand your options.
Our team would be happy to learn more about your property, your goals, and how professional property management could help.
Learn more about C21 Assurance Property Management at c21assurancepm.ca or contact our team to start a conversation.
Kitchens Sell Homes
Why the Kitchen Can Make or Break a Home Sale
When buyers walk through a home, the kitchen often shapes their opinion faster than any other room. It influences first impressions, affects perceived value, and can even impact how quickly a property sells.
A recent presentation from Norelco Cabinets shared a clear takeaway for Realtors®: buyers respond strongly to kitchens that feel functional, well finished, and move-in ready.
Buyers judge the kitchen quickly
Buyers often make emotional decisions first, then back them up with logic later. The kitchen plays a big role in that first impression. If it feels clean, functional, and move-in ready, buyers tend to feel more confident about the home overall. If it feels dated or awkward, the property can start to feel like work.
Most buyers are not judging technical details. They are simply asking themselves:
Will I need to renovate?
Does this feel move-in ready?
Does this look like quality?
Kitchens influence perceived value
Buyers do not usually break down kitchen value item by item. They judge the space as a whole. Good storage, consistent finishes, and solid craftsmanship can make a home feel more valuable. Poor layouts, dated styles, cheap-looking finishes, and visible wear can create hesitation and lead to price resistance.
That is why kitchens matter so much in listing preparation. A kitchen does not need to be the most expensive room in the house. It just needs to feel intentional and well cared for.
A strong kitchen helps a listing perform better
Norelco also pointed out that kitchens can directly affect listing performance. A well-presented kitchen can lead to stronger photos, more online engagement, better showing-to-offer conversion, and less negotiation pressure.
For Realtors®, that means the kitchen should be a priority before the home goes live. It is one of the first spaces buyers notice online, and one of the rooms most likely to influence how they feel about the property.
The takeaway for Realtors®
Not every seller needs a full renovation. Often, the goal is simply to reduce buyer hesitation and make the kitchen feel more functional, polished, and move-in ready.
A strong kitchen can support better first impressions, stronger marketing, and a smoother sale overall.
Looking for expert advice before you list? Reach out to a Century 21 Assurance Realty agent to discuss the best way to prepare your home for sale.
Best Things to Do in Creston BC in Late Winter and Early Spring
Best Things to Do in Creston BC in Late Winter and Early Spring
As winter begins to fade and the first signs of spring arrive, Creston, BC offers a refreshing mix of outdoor beauty, small-town charm, and seasonal activities that make this time of year especially enjoyable. From peaceful nature walks and scenic day trips to local history, there are plenty of memorable things to do in Creston BC during the transition between seasons. It is also one of the best times to experience the relaxed pace, mountain views, and strong sense of community that define the Creston lifestyle. Whether you are planning a visit or thinking about living in Creston BC, this charming Kootenay community has plenty to offer. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy Creston in late winter and early spring.
Explore the Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area (CVWMA)
One of the best places to experience the natural beauty of the valley is the Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area (CVWMA). In late winter and early spring, this incredible landscape begins to shift as snowy trails give way to thawing wetlands, open skies, and the first signs of seasonal wildlife activity. It is a peaceful place for a scenic walk, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the quiet beauty of the valley.
Bring binoculars and a camera, as this time of year often brings opportunities to spot migratory birds, deer, and other local wildlife. For anyone who loves the outdoors, this is easily one of the top things to do in Creston BC.
Photo credits: Creston Valley Tourism
Photo credits: Creston Valley Tourism
Enjoy Scenic Views Near Kootenay Lake
A trip toward Kootenay Lake is always worth adding to your list when visiting Creston. While ice fishing and other winter-specific activities may depend on seasonal conditions, late winter and early spring are still a beautiful time to enjoy the area’s lakeside scenery, mountain backdrops, and peaceful surroundings.
Whether you are taking a scenic drive, stopping for a quiet shoreline walk, or planning ahead for spring fishing adventures, the lake offers a relaxing way to experience the natural beauty that makes the Creston lifestyle so appealing. It is the kind of place that reminds you why so many people are drawn to the slower pace of life in the Kootenays.
Take a Day Trip to Whitewater Ski Resort
If you are hoping to squeeze in one more winter adventure before spring fully arrives, a day trip to Whitewater Ski Resort is a great option. Located about 90 minutes from Creston, this beloved Kootenay ski destination is known for its friendly atmosphere, incredible powder, and terrain that suits both beginners and experienced skiers.
Late winter and early spring can still offer fantastic conditions, making it an ideal outing for anyone looking to enjoy the last stretch of ski season. After a day on the slopes, warm up in the lodge with a meal or a local craft beer before heading back to Creston.
Photo credits: Trip Advisor, Whitewater Mountain Resort
Explore the Valley by Scenic Drive
Sometimes the best way to enjoy Creston in shoulder season is simply by taking the scenic route. Late winter and early spring bring a unique beauty to the valley, with snow still resting on the mountain peaks while lower elevations begin to thaw and green up.
A drive through the surrounding countryside offers peaceful roads, open farmland, and panoramic mountain views that showcase why living in Creston BC is so special. Areas near Shadow Mountain and the surrounding valley roads can be especially beautiful this time of year, making scenic drives one of the simplest and most enjoyable ways to take in the season.
Experience the Clear Night Skies
Late winter and early spring can bring some of the clearest skies of the year, making stargazing in the Creston Valley a surprisingly memorable activity. With low light pollution and wide-open views, the valley offers excellent opportunities to enjoy the stars, planets, and seasonal night sky events.
Whether you head out for an evening drive, find a quiet viewpoint, or simply step outside after dark, the night sky here is a reminder of just how peaceful and connected to nature life in Creston can feel.
Hit the Trails and Take in the Views
For outdoor enthusiasts, late winter and early spring can be a rewarding time to explore local hiking routes around Creston, as long as trail conditions are checked in advance. Higher-elevation hikes like Goat Mountain may still have snow, ice, or muddy sections, but they remain a popular choice for experienced hikers looking for a challenge and sweeping views of the valley.
If you are looking for something more relaxed, lower-elevation trails and walking routes around the area can still offer a great chance to enjoy the fresh air and changing scenery. This time of year is all about flexibility, and even a shorter walk can be a memorable way to experience the valley.
Step Inside the Creston Museum
Not every great local experience needs to happen outdoors. If the weather is unpredictable, the Creston Museum is a wonderful indoor stop that adds depth and character to any visit.
The museum highlights the area’s rich history, including Indigenous heritage, early settlement, and the agricultural roots that continue to shape the valley today. With fascinating exhibits and local artifacts, it is a great place to better understand the community and appreciate the stories behind the region. For anyone considering Creston real estate, it is also a meaningful way to connect with the heart of the town.
Photo credit: Mindtrip, Creston Museum & Archives
Visit the Creston Valley Farmers’ Market
There is no better way to experience local flavour and community spirit than by visiting the Creston Valley Farmers’ Market. As spring begins to arrive, market season starts to feel closer, and depending on the schedule, you may find fresh local produce, baked goods, eggs, handmade products, and artisan creations.
Even when the full growing season has not yet arrived, this kind of local experience is part of what makes the Creston lifestyle so attractive. It is a chance to support local makers, meet people in the community, and enjoy the warm, welcoming feel that defines the valley.
Unwind at Wild North Brewing
After a day outdoors, a cozy local stop can be the perfect way to wrap things up. Wild North Brewing is a favourite for many locals and visitors, offering a relaxed atmosphere, locally brewed beer, and a welcoming place to unwind. It is a great example of the kind of community-minded local business that gives Creston its character. Whether you are grabbing a casual meal, meeting friends, or simply enjoying a slower pace, spots like this are part of what makes the valley feel like home.
Photo credit: TripAdvisor, Wild North Brewing Company
Why Creston Is a Great Place to Enjoy Every Season
What makes Creston special is not just the scenery or the seasonal activities, it is the way the community feels throughout the year. Late winter and early spring are a perfect example of that. It is a season of contrast, with snow still on the mountains, fresh air in the valley, and the first signs of spring just starting to appear.
For visitors, it is a beautiful time to explore. For locals, it is part of what makes the area so easy to love. And for buyers considering Creston real estate, it offers a glimpse into the everyday lifestyle that makes this community such a desirable place to call home.
Thinking About Living in Creston BC?
If you are discovering Creston for the first time, or starting to picture what life here could look like, you are not alone. From outdoor recreation and natural beauty to local businesses, community events, and a more relaxed pace of life, there is a lot to love about living in Creston BC.
If you are ready to learn more about the area, explore neighbourhoods, or browse available homes, our team at Century 21 Assurance Realty is here to help. We know the local market and the communities that make the Kootenays such a special place to live.
Explore Creston real estate opportunities today and connect with our team to find your place in the valley at C21creston.com
A New Standard in Property Management for the BC Interior Region
Executives Property Management and Century 21 Assurance Realty Ltd. Join Forces to Redefine Property Management Excellence
BC Interior — Executives Property Management (Formerly Real Property Management) is proud to announce its merger with Century 21 Assurance Realty Ltd., creating a dynamic and powerful partnership set to elevate property management in the BC Interior region.
This strategic union brings together two of the region’s most trusted industry leaders—combining unparalleled expertise, advanced systems, and dedicated professionals to deliver the highest level of executive property management and real estate services available.
Under the continued visionary leadership of Treena and Aaron Piva of Executives Property Management, together with Kim Davies of Century 21 Assurance Realty, this merger sets a new standard for professionalism, community engagement, and operational excellence in property management across the BC Interior.
As Managing Directors of Property Management, Treena and Aaron will ensure continuity and uphold the high level of expertise their clients have come to expect, now strengthened by the extensive Century 21 Assurance Realty network. This partnership unites shared values and complementary strengths to drive growth, spark innovation, and deliver an unmatched level of service and care to property owners, residents, and communities throughout the region.
“This is an exciting new chapter - one built on collaboration, innovation, and care,” said Treena Piva. “Our mission has always been to serve with integrity, lead with purpose, and create value for both investors and residents. Together, we’re taking that promise to the next level - continuing our commitment to redefine and elevate the expectations of property management through strategic innovation, advanced technology, and next-level service.”
For more information, please contact:
Anna Carbone, Partner
Century 21 Assurance Realty Ltd.
Anna.carbone@century21.ca
250 869 0101
Century 21 Assurance Realty Ltd. Expands Into Creston, BC
Century 21 Assurance Realty Ltd. Expands Into Creston, BC
Creston, BC – January 24, 2025
Century 21 Assurance Realty Ltd., a leading residential, commercial and property management
brokerage in the BC Interior, is excited to announce their expansion into Creston. BC. The
expansion reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to providing the BC Interior with
excellence in real estate services with local market expertise.
Over 50 years ago, Gordon & Ruth Veitch started their family-owned real estate brokerage in
the Creston Valley. In the early ‘90s Scott Veitch joined his mother and brother in the business
which evolved into a Century 21 franchise 3 years later. Scott and Shannon Veitch have run
Century 21 Veitch Realty since 2003. The Veitch’s have always upheld traditional values, are
community-oriented and strive to be a service-first brokerage.
In January 2025, Century 21 Veitch Realty merged with Century 21 Assurance Realty from
Kelowna. Assurance Realty has offices in Kamloops, Salmon Arm, Vernon, Kelowna, Castlegar,
and now Creston. “With 125 plus Realtors® in the region, our expanded team, with its broad
experience and expertise, is better positioned to satisfy our communities real estate needs
including residential, commercial, agricultural, recreational, property management and advisory.
We are now even more connected and intend to be around for future generations to deliver the
Gold Standard’ in Real Estate “, said Scott Veitch, Associate Broker of Century 21 Assurance
Realty in Creston.
C21 Assurance Realty’s office in Creston is centrally located at 1131 Canyon Street offering
personalized services to meet the unique needs of individuals and businesses in Creston and
the surrounding area.
“Clients can expect the same trusted guidance, service and care that have been the hallmark of
Century 21 Veitch’s history in Creston”, said Max Carbone of Century 21 Assurance Realty Ltd.
About Century 21 Assurance Realty
Century 21 Assurance Realty helps consumers buy and sell real estate in the BC Interior. Our
mission is to defy mediocrity and deliver extraordinary experiences. By consistently striving for
excellence, giving 121% and always elevating the CENTURY 21 brand, we help our agents to
be the first choice for real estate consumers and industry professionals.
www.assurancerealty.c21.ca
Top Tips to Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal This Fall
Curb appeal is something that you should always be conscious of, especially when trying to sell your home. Not only is the exterior of your home the first thing that prospective buyers will see when they come to view it, but it can also help your home stand out in a crowded market. Whether you’re looking to sell right away, or simply want to make some updates to improve your home’s visual appeal, boosting your fall curb appeal is a great way to do so.
We’ve highlighted a few ways you can help your home stand out and impress anyone who walks or drives by.
Fall Curb Appeal: Keep Leaves at Bay
One of the easiest ways to increase the curb appeal of your home this fall is to simply keep up with the yard maintenance. Not only will this help your yard look even better come springtime, but it can also help catch the eye of potential buyers and others driving by. Raking leaves as they fall is a great way to keep your front yard looking clean and tidy, and doing other tasks such as giving your lawn lots of water and applying fertilizer in the fall will help your lawn’s health in the long run, and will have it growing in even lusher in the spring.
Draining irrigation lines is also important, as this will help preserve them for warmer weather and will keep any remaining water in the lines from freezing and expanding, which could damage your irrigation system.
Decorate the Front Porch
Fall time is one of the best times to get all of your seasonal decorations out, especially for holidays like Thanksgiving and Halloween. Adding some fun and intrigue to your front porch can help boost your home’s curb appeal, as it will help make your home feel more lived in and adds personality. People are more likely to remember a well-decorated front porch than they are a home that had no decorations displayed.
Try adding a few decorative pumpkins or gourds to your front porch area to coincide with the fall holidays, or plant a few fall-themed flower pots with flowers such as mums.
Light It Up
As the days get shorter, it’s going to be important that your home is well-illuminated this fall. Not only will lighting your home up ensure that people can easily find it should they be coming to view it, but it can also help deter things like break-ins. The more illuminated your home is – both inside and outside – the more it will give the impression of someone being home. This is not only a great way to boost your home’s curb appeal this fall and winter, but will also help keep your home and property safe.
It’s especially important to ensure that all paths and walkways are well-lit and tidy, to avoid tripping or slipping hazards with the rain and snow that often accompanies fall weather.
Repaint & Highlight The Front Door
Updating your front door is one of the easiest ways to boost your home’s curb appeal and add character and charm to your home. A fresh coat of paint can either soften your front porch, or add a well-needed pop or colour. Fortunately, painting is relatively simple and is a DIY project that can be done easily in an afternoon or a weekend, for a relatively affordable price. Greens, blues, and reds are popular front door colours and if you take the time to find a colour that will be complimentary to your home’s siding or exterior, it can make a huge difference.
Regardless of whether you’re trying to attract potential home buyers or simply want to inject some new life into your home’s exterior ahead of the darker, colder months, boosting your home’s curb appeal is a great way to start.
Thinking about selling your home? We can help! Contact Max Carbone today to be put in touch with one of our experienced real estate agents.
Fall Activities to Enjoy In Kelowna
With the days growing shorter and leaves beginning to change colour on the trees, it’s safe to say that fall has hit Kelowna and the greater Okanagan area. Whether you’re looking to make the most of outdoor activities before the snow flies, or are wanting to stay close to the cozy comforts of home, we wanted to pull together a list of some fun, festive, fall activities to enjoy in Kelowna over the next few weeks.
Haunted Farm Adventure at Don-O-Ray Farms
Spooky season is upon us, which makes now the perfect time to check out a spooky farm adventure happening throughout the month of October. With Don-O-Ray market’s ghost town of Deadwood reawakening, bring the entire family for a fun day of exploring a hedge maze with twists, turns, dead ends and more spooky surprises! The whole farm has been given a Halloween makeover, and provides a large selection of pumpkins that are perfect for a festive night of jack-o-lantern carving.
Festive and fun for the whole family, this is a Halloween event you should definitely check out! Click here to learn more!
Zombie Apocalypse Scavenger Hunt
Think you’ve got what it takes to survive a zombie apocalypse? Epic Experiences has brought forward an opportunity to see if you’ve got what it takes. The game leads you through the city, where you have 60 minutes to collect supplies needed to survive the interactive scavenger game. With a team of up to 10 people, you’ll use a smartphone to search for much needed things such as food, supplies, and shelter. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to take on more challenges or answer trivia questions to gain more points and earn more supplies. The more points you receive, the closer you are to surviving.
Rocky Horror Picture Show
If you’re looking for more adult-focused ways to celebrate the spooky season, you might want to check out The Rocky Horror Picture Show, presented by New Vintage Theatre at the Rotary Centre for the Arts. Paying homage to the classic B sci-fi film and horror genres, The Rocky Horror Show is a hilarious, wild ride that you don’t want to miss!
The show runs from October 10th to 19th. For more details and for tickets, click here.
Halloween Movie in the Vineyard
Halloween movies are the perfect way to get into the spooky season spirit, and this October you need to look no further than the Halloween Movie Night in the Vineyard at Priest Creek Family Estate Winery for a festive film for the entire family. On Friday, October 11th, they will be showing the movie ‘Casper’ under the stars in their vineyard. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children, and the movie will be happening from 5-8pm.
Fall Fest Harvest Market & Outdoor Concert
Whether you’re looking for some festive decor to decorate your home with this fall, or are simply wanting to get a head start on some holiday shopping, you’ll definitely want to check out the Fall Fest Harvest Market & Outdoor Concert happening on Saturday, October 12th at Grizzli Winery. The annual event is the perfect way to embrace the fall season while shopping from local vendors, enjoying live music, or partaking in fun fall activities with the family. There will be a fall photo booth, outdoor lawn games, apple bobbing with chopsticks, a s’mores fire pit, face painting and a craft/colouring station. The event is free and pet-friendly, so be sure to stop by and check it out!
Regardless of whether you’re looking for spooky events to help get you in the Halloween spirit or are just looking to enjoy everything that fall has to offer in the Okanagan, these festive fall events are a great place to start!
Century 21 Assurance Realty Launches Property Management Division Led by Kim Davies
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
Century 21 Assurance Realty Launches Property Management Division Led by Kim Davies
**Kelowna, BC –June 5, 2024** – Century 21 Assurance Realty Ltd., a leading real estate brokerage in Kelowna, with a reputation for excellence and a commitment to client satisfaction, announced the launch of a Property Management Division to enhance their Real Estate business.
This strategic expansion aims to provide comprehensive real estate services to Okanagan investors and property owners, enhancing the overall client experience and ensuring the highest standards of property care and tenant satisfaction.
The Property Management division already has over 85 properties under management. It delivers a full suite of services, including tenant screening, lease administration, rent collection, property maintenance, and financial reporting. The services alleviate the burdens of property management for owners, allowing them to maximize their investment returns.
Industry veteran Kim Davies recently joined Assurance Realty to assume the role of Managing Broker of Property Management & Commercial. With a proven record in property management, residential and commercial real estate, Kim brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the team. Her leadership will drive the growth and success of both Property Management & Commercial divisions and ensure clients receive the highest level of service and support.
“Century 21 Assurance Realty is a company built on a strong foundation of care. Care for each other, care for our clients, and care for those that we work with every day, said Kim Davies. I am excited to lead the Property Management and Commercial Divisions and help our clients achieve their real estate goals with confidence and success.”
“We’re pleased to introduce the launch of our Property Management Division which represents a significant milestone in our company’s growth and evolution,” said Max Carbone, Partner, Century 21 Assurance Realty Ltd. “This expansion allows us to offer a broader range of real estate services to our clients. We look forward to delivering exceptional value, service, and expertise through residential, property management and commercial real estate sectors.
About Century 21 Assurance Realty Ltd.
Century 21 Assurance Realty helps consumers buy and sell real estate in the Okanagan. Our mission is to defy mediocrity and deliver extraordinary experiences. By consistently striving for excellence, giving 121% and always elevating, the CENTURY 21 brand, we help our agents to be the first choice for real estate consumers and industry professionals. www.assurancerealty.c21.ca
For more information, contact: Anna Carbone / Partner/ Century 21 Assurance Realty Ltd. anna.carbone@century21.ca
What You Need to Know About Buying a Condo
Condos have become a popular housing option for many different reasons – a smaller footprint is great for those who might be looking to downsize from a single-family home to something smaller, while their size often translates into more affordable purchase prices for first-time home buyers or new families looking to get into the housing market. If you’re considering buying a condo, it’s important to do your research to fully understand everything that goes into condo home ownership, as there can be differences between owning a condo versus a single-family home.
If you’re thinking about dipping your toes into the housing market and buying a condo, we’ve highlighted some of the main things you need to know about condo home ownership.
Take Location Into Account
Condos are typically built in high-traffic areas such as downtowns and other urban centers, so if you’re looking to be in a quiet, family-friendly neighbourhood, then a condo might not be the right choice for you. However, if you’re looking to be able to walk out your front door and be in the hustle and bustle, then a condo might be the perfect place to call home. Location is also important to consider when thinking about things such as transportation and other amenities. If you work in a busy downtown area, opting for a condo a few blocks away might be a great idea, as it’ll save on commute times and transportation costs.
What Amenities Are Included?
One of the most appealing features of many condos are their included amenities. These differ from building to building, but some common amenities often seen in condos include swimming pools and hot tubs, gyms, shared outdoor spaces such as BBQ pits and rooftop patios, and common lounge rooms that everyone in the building can access. If you’re currently paying for a gym membership, opting for a condo with a gym might be a great way to help cut down on some costs. These amenities are typically included as part of the strata fees you pay to live in a condo building, so they can be a huge added bonus when considering a condo as your next home.
Are There Other Costs to Be Aware Of?
While condo prices are often lower than those of single-family homes and townhouse units, it’s important to remember that the listing price doesn’t include things such as strata fees and other costs that factor into purchasing a home. Strata fees are used to help cover the cost of building maintenance, access to amenities, and general upkeep of the property and its grounds (garbage removal, landscaping, snow removal, etc.). These fees can vary depending on the property, its location and the amenities it provides, among other things. It’s important to take this fee into consideration when looking at purchasing a condo, as it will become part of your monthly payment and might impact your budget. You’ll also need to remember to consider utility and insurance payments, which also won’t be included in the purchase price.
Consider The Long-Term Potential
If you’re looking to downsize, then you might be looking at a condo as more of a long-term investment. However, if you’re looking at a condo as a bit of a stepping stone to get yourself into the housing market, then it is probably a good idea to consider the long-term potential of your condo. Condos have excellent rental potential, especially in cities like Kelowna where you have a bustling student population. Rather than selling your condo down the road, you might want to consider if it might be more worthwhile to rent it out instead. Thinking about your long-term goals before making a purchase might help you narrow down your options, or might make one condo more appealing than another.
Regardless of whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or are someone looking to downsize, condos can be a great investment. Taking the time to do your research before starting your home-buying journey can help you feel better prepared for the purchase you’re going to make, and help you get into the condo of your dreams!
Thinking about making the move to a condo? We can help! Contact Max Carbone today to have him connect you with one of our experienced real estate agents.
Century 21 Assurance Realty Proudly Celebrates One of Our Own
Out of 12,000 hard working, dedicated Century 21 Realtors across Canada, one of our own stood out amongst the rest. Anne Wolfe was recently named 2023 Sales Associate of the Year and was presented the award by Century 21 Canada president and CEO, Martin Charlwood, at the annual OneC21 Conference in Calgary.
Anna Carbone, Partner at Century 21 Assurance Realty, highlighted Wolfe’s work ethic and commitment to the brand.
“This incredible milestone and achievement is a nod to Anne’s outstanding performance, professionalism, community work, and engagement with the Century 21 brand, network, and tools. We’re thrilled to be a part of Anne’s successful journey in Real Estate.”
Having recently surpassed 20 years with Century 21, Wolfe was selected from a shortlist of agents nominated by the company’s brokers and agents. The main criteria for the award include:
- Industry Success
- Community Ties
- Engagement with Tech and Program Tools
- Representation of the brand’s “Gold Standard” of client excellence
“I feel honored and grateful to have received this year’s C21 Sales Associate of the Year award,” said Wolfe. “Having been with Century 21 for over 20 years – in two different provinces – the integrity of the organization, as well as its ability to pivot and grow with changing times has made it the best place to grow my business! The support of my family, agents, and brokers at Century 21 Assurance Realty and my Century 21 Canada family as a whole are a huge part of my success in real estate!”
