Consumer Tips For Real EstateSellers Advantage 7 November 2024

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.

Raking leaves for fall yard maintenance

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.

Festive front porch decor with decorative porch mat and various pumpkins

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.

In The Community 7 October 2024

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!

Girl in witch costume holding halloween pumpkin

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.

For more details, click here!

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.

Click here to learn more!

fall market events in the Okanagan

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!

Click here for full details.

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!

The Gold Standard in Real Estate 5 June 2024

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

Consumer Tips For Real EstateHome Buyers 21 February 2024

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.

Swimming pool in condo building

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.

Condo living room

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.

Consumer Tips For Real EstateHot Tips 16 November 2023

Best Ways to Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal in Winter

When it comes to selling your home, curb appeal has a huge impact on the first impression your home gives potential buyers. While boosting your home’s curb appeal during the warmer, summer months is relatively simple, it can be more challenging once the snow flies and the cold weather sets in.

If you’re looking for a few ways to boost your home’s curb appeal in the winter, we’ve compiled a list of a few different things you can do!

Home with bright interior lights in winter

Boost Curb Appeal: Let There Be Light

As the days get shorter, you’ll want to ensure that your home is properly illuminated. Not only will this help potential buyers see the home, but it will also help keep sidewalks and front porches lit up, which will help keep people safe. With showings happening in the darker evening hours, keeping your lights on will also make your home feel more welcoming and ‘lived-in’, which will help invite potential buyers in.

Spruce Up Your Front Porch

While there won’t be much yard work to be done in the winter months to help with your home’s curb appeal, one area that you can put some work into is your front porch. Consider painting your front door a bold colour to add some personality to the space, add festive winter-themed pots on the porch, or hang a seasonal wreath on the front door to help boost the curb appeal. Not only will these add to the first impression that your home will make to potential buyers, but it will also allow them to see the potential of what they could do to the space should they decide to put in an offer.

Homeowner shovelling snow in winter

Keep Sidewalks Clear

When inviting potential buyers into your home for showings, the last thing you want is for someone to slip and fall on an icy sidewalk. This is why keeping sidewalks and driveways clear is extremely important when selling during the winter months. Shoveling and de-icing your sidewalks and driveway can also help boost your home’s curb appeal as it makes your property feel lived-in and more welcoming to those who might be considering your home during their home search.

Update House Numbers

If you’re looking for a simple, relatively inexpensive way to boost your home’s curb appeal during the winter months, then you might want to consider updating your house numbers. They are mandatory to have on your home, but depending on when your home was built and when they were last changed, they can sometimes look a bit outdated. Taking the time to update your house numbers is a great way to refresh the exterior of your home while also ensuring that potential buyers will be able to easily find it when they come for their showings.

Whether you’re planning to list your home soon or are thinking you’ll be listing later in the winter, taking these steps now is a great way to ensure that you’re putting your home’s best foot forward when it comes time to put it on the market.

Thinking about selling your home? We can help! Contact Max Carbone today to get in touch with one of our experienced real estate agents!

Hot TipsIn The Community 18 October 2023

Spooky Halloween Activities in the Okanagan

With Halloween just a few weeks away and the crisp fall weather already in the Okanagan, many people are starting to look for activities to help them get into the spooky season mood. Whether you’re looking for a good scare or are looking for something fun to do with the kids, there are dozens of fantastic Halloween activities and events happening throughout the valley.

We’ve highlighted a few spooky Halloween activities happening in the Okanagan over the next few weeks that are definitely worth checking out.

Trick or treating in the Okanagan

Haunted Farm Adventure

Hosted by Don-O-Ray Farm, the Haunted Farm Adventure will provide fun for all ages! The ghost town of Deadwood has reawakened and the fall activities are in full swing, including a hedge maze that is full of spooky surprises, twists, turns, and dead ends. While you’re enjoying the spooky fun, you can also pick up your pumpkins straight from their pumpkin patch! With dates running throughout the month of October, make sure to drop in and enjoy their Haunted Farm Adventure!

Haunted House at the Museum

If you’re looking to visit a Haunted House this spooky season, then look no further than the Westbank Museum’s 3rd annual Haunted House at the Museum. Entry is by donation and they have several dates between now and Halloween for you to enjoy. Bring your friends and family and make your way through the haunted house – if you dare!

Halloween Movie in the Vineyard

Visit Priest Creek Family Estate Winery this October and enjoy a Halloween Movie Night in the Vineyard! On Friday, October 27th, they will be screening The Haunted Mansion for everyone to enjoy. This is a ticketed event with adult tickets at $15 and kid tickets at $10. Don’t forget to enjoy a wine tasting while you’re there!

Jack-o-lantern pumpkin for halloween

Halloweenie at Grizzli Winery

For those who are looking for both kid-friendly and pet-friendly Halloween events around the Okanagan this fall, Grizzli Winery is the place to be. Their 4th annual Halloweenie event is a non-scary, ‘lights on’ indoor event that is perfect for young kids. Kids can join in on fun Halloween-themed activities such as a scavenger hunt, mini-pumpkin decorating station, outdoor s’mores around the fire, and more while parents can enjoy wine from the winery. Admission is $5 and covers a variety of things for both adults and children.

Family Monster Bash

Join the City of Kelowna for their Family Monster Bash at the Kelowna Capital News Centre on Sunday, October 29th! This is a free event perfect for the whole family and will include an obstacle course, bouncy house, Halloween games, face painting, and more. The concession will be open for purchasing food and drinks, and the ice rink will be open for free skating.

There is never a shortage of great events happening throughout the Okanagan, and the Halloween season is no exception! These events are sure to get you into the spooky spirit, just in time for Halloween!

Are you thinking about moving to the Okanagan and making it your home? We can help! Contact Max Carbone to be connected to one of our experienced real estate agents.

Consumer Tips For Real EstatePreparing Your Listing for SaleSellers Advantage 21 August 2023

Top Tips for Downsizing Your Home

While having a large home with lots of room for kids and pets to run around can be great, there will likely come a time once the kids have moved out and you find yourself with more square footage than you know what to do with. In this scenario, many homeowners find themselves looking to downsize their home and find something a bit more manageable for their current lifestyle. But downsizing can be a daunting and sometimes emotional task that can be overwhelming if you don’t take steps to help streamline the process.

If you’re thinking about downsizing your home, we’ve put together a few tips to help make the downsizing process as stress-free as possible.

Small space kitchen

Declutter Before You Move

One of the best ways to make downsizing a breeze is to declutter your home before you move. Not only will this help eliminate items you don’t have space for in your new home, but it will also save time so you can avoid packing items that actually don’t need to make the move. Compare your current home with the home you’re moving into and take inventory of items that aren’t necessary.

Start Small

The idea of having to downsize and declutter an entire house can feel incredibly overwhelming, so it’s important that you remember to start small. Rather than looking at your home as a whole, start with just one room, such as a bedroom, and go from there. Making a list can also be helpful – jot down any items or pieces of furniture that you know you no longer need, and deal with them when you come to that room rather than trying to tackle everything at once.

Small space bedroom

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask For Help

Asking for help can be hard to do, but when it comes to downsizing and moving, it can be a game-changer! If you have friends and family who are willing to help with the downsizing process, take them up on it! Sometimes just having an outside opinion and an extra pair of hands can make the entire process go much faster and make it less stressful.

Utilize Space-Saving Options

When thinking about what furniture to take to your new place, it is a good idea to look at pieces that might serve more than one purpose or offer hidden storage. It’s also important to ensure that the furniture you currently have will fit in your new space, especially if you’re moving from a house to a smaller townhouse or condo. With so many great space-saving options available, you’ll be able to find something that will fit your needs while maximizing your space with additional storage or seating.

Whether you’re downsizing because you no longer need the space that you currently have or are just looking to simplify your life, these tips will help keep the downsizing and moving process simple and stress-free so you can spend less time worrying and more time enjoying your new space!

Looking to downsize from your current home into something smaller? We can help! Contact Max Carbone today to get connected to one of our experienced real estate agents!

Hot Tips 5 July 2023

Tips for Keeping Your Home Safe During Summer Vacations

Now that the sunshine and hot weather are here, many people will set off on their summer vacations. Whether you’re planning to stick close to home this summer or are planning a larger getaway, it’s important to make sure you have everything in order before setting off, including making sure your home is safe and secure. The last thing you want on vacation is to receive a call that something has gone wrong, so we have highlighted some steps you can take to help ensure that your home and belongings will be safe until you return.

Whether you’re leaving town for an extended period of time or are just leaving for a day or two, following these steps before you leave will help keep your home safe while you’re on vacation.

Watering flowers while homeowners are on vacation

Get a House Sitter

One of the easiest ways to ensure that your home will be safe and secure while you’re on vacation is to hire a house sitter to keep an eye on the place. Some house sitters will actually stay in your home, which will help make it look lived-in. Alternatively, some house sitters will stop by your home once a day or once every few days to make sure that everything is in order. Not only is this a great way to ensure that your home is being looked after, but it also means you can have someone stopping by to water flowers and other plants that might suffer in the hot Okanagan sun.

Lock All Windows & Doors

Before leaving on vacation, make sure to walk around your home and check that every window and door is closed and locked. This will help improve your home’s security and will help give you peace of mind that everything is locked up and secure. You might think that simply closing your windows is enough, but ensuring that they are locked as well will help keep every possible entrance to your home safe and secure.

Install Smart Locks & Security Cameras

Investing in a security system or smart locks is a great idea if you plan to be away from home for an extended period of time, but it is also an investment that will benefit you and your home year-round. There are many great, easily accessible options available, such as the Ring Video Doorbells or the Google Nest security cameras, many of which are easy to install and connect to an app on your phone so you can keep track of what’s happening from wherever you are. Smart locks are also a great way to ensure your home’s security, as many of them give you the ability to lock and unlock your doors from anywhere.

Make It Look Like Someone’s Home

If you have a trusted friend or neighbour looking after your home while you’re away, there are a few things you can ask them to do to make it look like your home is being lived in, even if you’re away. If there are cars left in your driveway, arrange to move them every so often to make it look like you’ve been out and about. Having someone collect your mail is also a great way to keep it from piling up so it’s not so obvious that no one is home. If your blinds or drapes are normally open, keep them this way so that it looks like nothing is out of the ordinary. You can also leave a light or two on to make it seem like someone is home.

While it might be tempting to rush out and make the most of your summer vacation, taking the time to properly secure your home will help give you peace of mind that it’s being looked after and will allow you to enjoy your holidays without worrying about your home or your belongings.

 

Thinking about calling the Okanagan home, but don’t know where to start? We can help! Contact Max Carbone today to be connected with one of our experienced agents.

Hot TipsPreparing Your Listing for SaleSellers AdvantageUncategorized 22 June 2023

5 Questions to Ask Your Real Estate Agent When Selling

While selling your home might seem as simple as just putting it on the market and waiting for the offers to come in, there is actually a lot more that goes into selling a home than you may realize. If you’re looking for a home sale that will go smoothly and be as stress-free as possible, it’s important to sit down with your real estate agent and ask some questions that will help manage your expectations and better understand the entire home selling process.

Working with an experienced and reputable real estate agent is a great place to start, but we’ve highlighted a few questions to ask your agent to best prepare for your home sale.

How Much Is My Home Worth?

One of the most important questions to ask when beginning your home selling journey is what your real estate agent thinks your home is worth. Hiring a real estate appraiser is one way to determine the price, but you can also ask your real estate agent to perform a market evaluation. They will consider the current housing market and demand in your area, along with the specifics of your home, such as square footage, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and location to determine your home’s value and what the listing price should be.

Factors such as the age of your home, any recent upgrades or renovations, and proximity to different amenities will also have an impact on your home’s value.

couple meeting with real estate agent

What Costs Will I Incur While Selling My Home?

Another important question to ask your real estate agent is what costs you might incur while selling your home. One of the more obvious costs is the commission that your agent will take for helping you through the selling process, but there are other costs that are important to keep in mind. Some of these additional costs can include fees from a Notary Public or Lawyer, as well as any costs associated with moving, starting/canceling new utility services, and hiring cleaners to clean your home for the new buyers before they take possession.

What Do I Need To Disclose to Buyers?

While there are some things that you likely don’t need to disclose to any potential buyers in your home, in British Columbia you are obligated to disclose any and all known Material Latent Defects, which can include:

  • A defect in the home or property that could make it potentially dangerous for occupants
  • Anything that classifies the property as uninhabitable
  • Lack of appropriate building (or other) permits regarding the property
  • Any required updates that will be extremely costly to the new owners to repair

It is important to bring anything you feel may fall under a Material Latent Defect with your real estate agent early on, as they can sometimes have an impact on the value of your property.

Home improvements being made before sale

How Do I Best Prepare My Home for Sale?

Another important question to ask is what you can do to best prepare your home for being put on the market and potential showings. One of the biggest things to remember is that your home will need to remain clean and tidy for both the listing photos and for showings, as that will allow you to best represent your property. The curb appeal of your home also makes a big impact, as it is the first impression people will get of your home. There are a few simple things you can do to help boost your home’s curb appeal, such as tidying any clutter from the yard, adding some bright flowers and planters, and painting the front door.

How Will You Market My Home?

While selling your home might seem as simple as just putting it on the MLS and waiting for the offers to roll in, there is actually quite a bit of marketing that goes into selling a home, so it’s important to ask your real estate agent what they plan to do to help market your property. The marketing approach is key as it can help attract buyers and make your home very appealing compared to others on the market. Some of the most common marketing materials utilized by real estate agents include:

  • Professional real estate photos and floor plans
  • Marketing materials such as flyers and brochures
  • Advertising on real estate portals such as Realtor.ca and Zillow.com
  • Social media marketing through the agent or brokerage’s social media accounts

Some agents also leverage marketing materials such as video, 3D virtual walkthroughs, and virtual staging to help your home stand out. Be sure to ask what your agent will do to help market your property to ensure you’re getting the best service possible.

While selling your home can be a stressful and sometimes emotional time, taking the time to prepare and ask the right questions can give you peace of mind that your real estate agent has your best interest in mind and can do what it takes to get your home sold.

Ready to sell your home and are looking for an experienced real estate agent? We can help! Contact Max Carbone today to get started!

Home BuyersIn The Community 19 May 2023

Kelowna’s Top Liveability Factors

There is no question that Kelowna and the rest of the Okanagan Valley is a true four-season playground, with endless activities and amenities to enjoy year-round. These features factor into Kelowna’s liveability factors, which is a huge attraction for people looking to buy in the city. If you’re considering making the move to Kelowna, take a look at Kelowna’s liveability factors to determine if it’s the right community for you.

We’ve highlighted some of Kelowna’s top liveability factors to help you get a feel for the Okanagan Valley and everything it has to offer!

Winter activities at Big White Ski Resort

Kelowna Liveability: Get Outdoors

Tourism is very popular in the Okanagan Valley. This means that Kelowna and the surrounding area offer a diverse range of outdoor activities for locals and visitors alike. While the hot summer months are popular with people looking to spend time at the beach, go boating, or golfing at one of the many popular golf courses, the winter months also provide endless outdoor entertainment. Big White Ski Resort and Silver Star Mountain Resort are both short drives away from Kelowna and are fantastic locations for ski and snowboard enthusiasts. Snowshoeing is also a popular winter activity and a great way to enjoy the great outdoors and explore everything Kelowna has to offer.

Eat and Drink

If the Okanagan Valley is known for one thing in particular, it’s wine. Kelowna is considered the birthplace of winemaking in British Columbia, which makes it a popular spot for people looking to experience some of the many incredible wineries that call the Okanagan home. Kelowna boasts five unique wine trails, with over 40 wineries to visit in just a 20-minute drive. Many wineries have restaurants attached, making them a great place to spend an evening sampling fantastic food and drinks with friends or family, whether you’re a local resident or are just visiting.

Beaches in Kelowna

Explore The Beaches

The gorgeous Okanagan Lake is the heart of the Okanagan Valley and spans a whopping 135 kilometers from Vernon in the north to Penticton in the south. Regardless of where you’re at in the valley, you’re bound to find a beach to enjoy the refreshing water during the hot summer months. Many beaches are equipped with bathrooms, playgrounds, and other amenities such as various sports courts and concessions, making them a great place to spend the whole day with friends and family. Whether you’re looking to get out on the boat, explore the shoreline in a kayak or stand-up paddleboard, or simply lounge and soak in the sun, you won’t regret checking out one of over 30 beaches in the region. If you look hard enough, you might even catch a glimpse of the elusive Ogopogo!

Landmark district

Popular Neighbourhoods

If you’re considering moving to Kelowna but aren’t quite sure which neighbourhoods to search in, here are a few that boast great liveability features that might be worth checking out. The Capri Landmark area is great if you’re looking to be close to work, as it is one of Kelowna’s major employment hubs and there are plenty of great apartments in the area. Lower Mission is a popular neighbourhood for those looking for easy access to trendy shops, restaurants, and the lake. There are lots of new apartments and townhomes being built in the area, making it popular with current home buyers. Finally, the heartbeat of Kelowna lies in the Downtown core, where you will find shopping, transit, and more!

Whether you’re already familiar with Kelowna or are new to the area and are looking to put down roots, these liveability factors will help you determine the best place to start looking for your perfect home in the Okanagan Valley!

 

Are you ready to find your Kelowna home? We can help! Contact Max Carbone today to be connected with one of our experienced real estate agents!