Considering a New Home in the Okanagan?

It is well known that the demand for new homes in British Columbia has been steadily increasing over the past few years. As more and more people are looking to move to the West, real estate prices have been rapidly rising to compensate.

As space for new developments becomes scarcer and the population in the lower mainland and Vancouver continues to grow, many home buyers have been looking to areas outside the lower mainland such as the Okanagan to satisfy their housing needs.

The Okanagan has long been a beautiful part of BC, located approximately 400 km east of Vancouver at an elevation between 340 and 350 meters above sea level. This region boasts great snow activities in the winter as well as hot leisurely summers by the water.  The Okanagan clocks an average of 2000 hours of sunshine annually; significantly more than most places in British Columbia. As the prices of new houses and condominiums continue to rise around British Columbia, new homes are significantly more affordable, generally between $300,000 and $500,000 for above average standard detached family homes in the Okanagan than in the lower mainland and Vancouver. This fact, among others, has been a large part of what is making this region a desirable area for new families, empty nesters and seniors. With safe, close-knit communities, a fantastic school system including post-secondary options as well as open spaces, verdant parks and larger lots, it is easy to see why this area of BC is growing so rapidly in popularity. Vancouver is still accessible, being only a few hours’ drive, but with the shopping, health care and all other amenities one could want within the Okanagan region, being closer to Vancouver isn’t really a necessity for most of the residents found in the Okanagan.

One of the most popular places to live in the Okanagan is Penticton. Resting between two stunning lakes, it is easy to see why tourists and those looking to relocate to or within British Columbia are attracted to this city with so many activities to offer year round; beautiful sandy beaches and abundant camping in the summer along with Peach Fest, a popular summer festival with activities for all ages attract the attention of many locals and tourists as the city hums with activity and life. Some of British Columbia’s best wineries and orchards are also found in the Okanagan Valley as well as some of the best golfing in the province. The winter usually brings snow and along with it, snow shoeing, sledding and ice skating, to name a few, as well as easy access to some great ski-hills found in the Okanagan area. Apple picking and scenic nature walks are popular in the fall and the colours and fresh scents of spring create a fantastic setting for any outdoor activity.

Another up-and-coming place within the Okanagan is Kelowna. With a city population of approximately 96,300 and a greater area population around 147,750, this city is continuing to grow in popularity. Situated right on the shores of Lake Okanagan, Kelowna is the location for some of the Okanagan’s best beaches, summer resorts and winter fun. World-class vineyards and orchards surround this beautiful city and all major amenities make it a convenient and enjoyable place to live.

The Okanagan has been growing in popularity as a place for new homes and families over the past few years, and with everything it has to offer, it is easy to see why: year-round activities, stunning scenery and an abundance of smaller town charm are only the beginning of what makes the Okanagan such a desirable place for your new house or condominium in British Columbia.

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