Okanagan Real Estate Market Update: May 2021

The Okanagan real estate market has continued to showcase steady growth and chart topping numbers. Okanagan’s dynamic market displays fast moving inventory and competitive offers in many cases. A high demand, with predictions to remain steady into the upcoming months is becoming a common theme.

Okanagan is consistently seeing historically high numbers of sales and low inventory. This creates increases in value and remains apparent that the market still favor sellers as we continue in the second quarter of 2021.

The current market conditions are driven up by many factors. Some of which include; low interest rates, flexibility of remote working, and the intriguing Okanagan lifestyle. The “small town” feel that the Okanagan showcases is sought after with many buyers relocating from large cities.

With world-class wineries, sandy beaches, countless lakes and an abundance of outdoor activities, the Okanagan is a hot spot for people of any age. Many people are looking for more of that outdoor lifestyle. Whether its boating, golfing, or heading to Big White for some mountain biking our community offers all of that, and then some!

Okanagan Real Estate Market Recap

Market activity continues to exceed levels our area is accustomed to. We experienced 9845 sales totaling over 5.7 billion dollars in 2020. Year to date, we sit at 3.2 billion with 5002 sales. Value continue to climb and the increase of pressure will likely continue in the short term.

Not only are listings selling for more, but they are taking less time to sell, 28.23% less time compared to 2020 actually. In March 2021, residential listings were taking, on average, 33 days to sell.

A Closer Look

As we experience high level activity within our market, individual market segments performed differently. The number of residential sales increased by 115%, and the condo market is ahead of that with an increase of 130%. Townhomes are slightly behind at 114%. But the real dominator here was lot sales, as more and more people decide to build. We saw a 383%, yes 383% increase in number of sales compared to 2020.

Average prices in all segments have increased. The average price of residential soared to $930,251 a 28% change from 2020. Townhomes also increased by 24% to $621,485 and condos trailed with an average price of $415,411 compared to $352,444, a 17% increase.

Looking Ahead

With our current markets status, we expect a similar quarter. Demand remains strong throughout our region and combined with a high level of available capital market trends are expected to continue. We are in a time where market growth seems to remain stable and steady for the foreseeable future and sellers are still in a perfect pocket of opportunity.

For more information about the Okanagan real estate market contact me anytime.

Spring in the Okanagan – Real Estate Edition

Spring has arrived in the Okanagan. With above 20 degree weather, the grasses are greening and the homes are selling faster than ever before. It’s not new news that in the Spring time we see a rush in homes being listed and sold, but this year is taking it to another level. Because this is a strong sellers market, many of the homes are going into multiples and ending up going for above listing price with no conditions. It is a frustrating time for buyers looking for that perfect home but with a qualified, professional, knowledgeable agent, finding and purchasing your dream home is possible!

The Okanagan has so much to offer and people from all across Canada are discovering this little piece of paradise we call home. The outdoor lifestyle, great weather, and endless opportunity are appealing to everyone. That appeal however is driving up prices for anyone local trying to get into this market.

As we near the end of April lets take a quick peek at some stats:

  • We have already seen 597 sales in the Central Okanagan whereas last years April saw 214. That is a 178% increase and the month isn’t even over yet
  • $561,463 was the average price in April 2020, and with the sales conducted so far this April we are at an average sale price of $723,368
  • A home is sitting on the market an average of 36 days compared to last years 66 days (45% decrease!)

Even though its now closed for the Winter Season, Big White Ski Resort is seeing the same increase. Number of sales and average sale prices are up tremendously from previous years. With their summer season approaching, everyone is keen to get outside and enjoy the activities offered; like world-class biking, hiking, festivals and more. More and more people are purchasing vacation homes close to home to escape to during these restricted times. You can check out Big White’s summer season here.

The velocity of the recent COVID-19 third wave, driven by the variants, is likely going to cause further restrictions and the Okanagan market has proven to be resilient and is expected to remain fast paced.

This is the time for sellers who are debating listing to really consider all of the incredible options out there. The Okanagan has never before seen a demand like this making it the perfect time to sell. On the other hand, if you are a buyer looking to purchase into this market, don’t get discouraged. Low borrowing rates create opportunity to step into the market.

As always, I am happy to answer any questions you have about the Okanagan and Big White real estate markets. Contact me today!

LIVE WHERE YOU PLAY!

Kelowna Real Estate Market – March 2021

Kelowna, the third largest metropolitan area in BC, has been a hot spot for real estate for the past few months. The lifestyle that Kelowna provides is appealing to everyone. An active outdoor lifestyle is what everyone is looking for these days especially within these restricting times. With people working remotely the mass exodus from metropolitan cities continues. People from Ontario, Alberta, and Lower Mainland are flocking to the Okanagan and falling in love with the valley. With many non-locals being drawn to the area, we saw 23% of purchases with buyers from the Lower Mainland/Island compared to 51% of buyers from within the board. So let’s take a look at the Kelowna Real Estate Market Stats.

Kelowna Real Estate Market Stats

With that, we have been seeing a major increase in single family home sale prices and a large decrease of that same inventory. February saw a benchmark price for single family homes at an astonishing $776,300. An increase of 17% from the same time last year. If that statistic doesn’t shock you, the listing inventory will. With a decrease of 51%, February had just 388 active listings. Days to sell are also down, about 40%, to just 44 days on average.

7 Day Market Watch

Single family homes remain sought-after; however, the condo market is steadily increasing for those who enjoy the low maintenance, lock and leave lifestyle. In February 2021 there were 183 sales, an increase of 108% compared to February 2020. Inventory is also sitting at 23% below last years. Kelowna’s condo market will be seeing a large increase of availability with new developments and proposals.

With many of the new listings, especially single family homes, getting multiple offers, the final sale price is often going above the list price. Competitive buyers are winning offers by agreeing to less subjects, quicker removals, and of course, higher prices. As agents we are seeing an increase of listing notes with “Sellers will review all offers by such and such date.”. This allows any interested buyers to view the property in an allotted time and make an informed not rushed decision.

March continues to show us that the market is not slowing down. If anything, it’s getting crazier. Buyers are feeling the stress of not being able to find a place, and sellers are wondering if now is the right time to list. With so many questions going around, I am always happy to answer any that you may have. You can always contact me here to have a chat. You can also check out all of my current Kelowna listings here.

Check out my latest SOLDS in Kelowna & Area!

Big White Real Estate is on Par With The Rest of BC

Big White Real Estate is on par with the rest of BC. You have likely seen in the news that the real estate industry in British Columbia, specifically the Interior, is breaking records. It has well exceeded many peoples expectations. Big White Ski Resort‘s real estate market is no exception.

For instance, January 2021 sales took a 35% increase from January of 2020. Sales from $99,400 to 1,540,000 took place in January with the transactions totalling over $12 million dollars. This created an average sale price of $531,670, a slight increase from January 2020’s average sale price of $501,588.

Big White Ski Resort Real EstatePeople are flocking to the resort to purchase vacation rentals for themselves and their families as well as purchasing investment homes to provide revenue. There are many options for whatever you are looking for in your Big White Ski Resort property. Whether it’s a lot for building your dream chalet, a commercial investment up to $10 million, a studio or anything in between.

From my office I get to see the bustle of the Village and the excitement that runs through the resort on the daily. There is no better time than now to get outside and enjoy everything this beautiful mountain has to offer.

This year, the resort has spent copious amounts of time and money ensuring they are following all new government protocols. I believe they have done an incredible job in keeping visitors and locals safe all seasons long.

If you are curious about stepping into the Big White market or ready to sell your lovely ski abode, contact me today and we can talk about your options. Now may be the best time for you to LIVE WHERE YOU PLAY!

Spend Summer at Big White!

Spend your Summer at Big White – the resort is open! This summers opening weekend was the most successful opening summer weekend in history. The real estate market is red hot and investors are coming from all over the country to buy a perfect mountain getaway for their families. We believe it is better to be outside, and with Big White Ski Resort offering incredible outdoor experiences, now is the time to explore all Big White has to offer.

Here are a few of the adventures and activities that you can find at Big White this summer.

The Toonie Experience – A Race Series

Friday nights are for downhill racing! With the course changing every week, this series is a fun way to hit the dirt and compete with friends. Either participate or just come to cheer the racers on! Click here for more information.

Geo Hiking Adventure

A free scavenger hunt taking place August 1 and 2, that will challenge your navigation skills and Big White knowledge. Compete as a team or by yourself and have fun! Find out more details here!

Horseback Riding

Saddle up and enjoy a relaxing adventure riding horseback along the trails with experienced guides. You’ve never seen Big White like this so take in the gorgeous views and fresh mountain air. Multiple options available from an hour ride to a half day adventure with lunch at Globe Cafe or Blarney Stone! Big White Horseback Adventures is ready to ride!

Hiking

An obvious favourite, hiking Big White is phenomenal. Grab a trail map and walk through the trails to enjoy the greenery and gorgeous vistas. Here are the Top FIVE hiking trails:

  1. Rhonda Lake Trail
  2. Peak Trail
  3. Falcon Ridge
  4. Alpine Meadows
  5. Jaimeson Loop

The sun is shining and the mountain is waiting for you to get outside and enjoy beautiful British Columbia and Big White Ski Resort. Come visit me at my office, right under Snowshoe Sams, or contact me today!

LIVE WHERE YOU PLAY!

History of Big White Part II

Continuing on from History of Big White Part I Big White Ski Resort showed continuous, steady growth from the 90’s and into the 2000’s. This second part  to the history of Big White will showcase all of the incredible amenities and features that have been constructed until mid 2000’s.

The opening of a Walk-In Medical Center at the Whitefoot Lodge took place in 1994, along with a 100 seat conference center,  Dom’s restaurant, and The Eagles and Chateau on the Ridge condominiums being constructed. The Ski Rental and Repair shop was also renovated during this time. In 1995, Big White Ski Resort invested more than $5 million in improvements to continue its growth. To accommodate its growth, a 350 car parking lot was placed between the Bullet and Black Forest and the White Crystal Inn opened offering deluxe accommodation and dining. On hill accommodations now exceeds 5,500 persons making Big White the largest on-mountain village in Western Canada!

The next few years brought the Ice Skating Rink, Snowboard Park, The Village Center Mall, The Big White Kid’s Center, Gem Lake Express Quad Chair and 1,200 acres of new terrain. Bringing the investment totals to over $75 million. Accommodations grew tremendously in 1997 and 1998 with the developments and expansions of Black Bear Lodge, The Coast Resort, Legacy Condominiums, Snowpines Estates, and The Ridge Day Lodge. Not long after in 1999, huge development milestones were hit with the completion of the Legend, Timber Ridge, Whiskey Jack, Treetops, Chateu at Big White projects. The Real Estate total for 2000 is $39.1 million!

In the early 2000’s, over $125 million was invested into the Gondola Woods Happy Valley Project. 100 acres of newly gladed terrain, summer grooming projects, and car park expansions were completed in 2001. While a year later, in 2002, a new super Olympic sized pipe, the 2nd one in Western Canada was constructed, along with the new skier bridge linking the village to Happy Valley. 2002 also saw a massive jump to nearly $50 million in real estate.

Stayed tuned for Part III

Big White Real Estate Market Update – February

Big White Village

Big White Ski Resort’s temperature might be in the negatives lately, but the real estate market is climbing to hot hot hot! With 18 new listings becoming active in February, it brings the total current listing count at Big White to 117. That number includes condos, single family residences, and lots. 

Condos currently make up 42% of the current listings and with prices ranging from $104,500 to $1,100,000, there really is a price point for everyone.

Whether it is local families, investors, or people from out of the country buying vacation homes, condos are an incredible chance to own at Big White Ski Resort. They allow owners and occupants to live a secure, low maintenance, lifestyle while reaping the benefits of amenities and location. Condo living often boasts the “Lock and Leave” lifestyle, which for a vacation home is an opportunity for less stress, and the confidence your home is secure and taken care of while you are not there.

Condos at Big White Ski Resort are becoming more luxurious and the amenities are increasingly raising the standards. Complexes such as Stonegate Resort offer incredible building amenities like a heated indoor/outdoor pool, 18 seat movie theater, fitness center, game room, and more! To check out the sophisticated Stonegate Resort, click here.

So whether you invest, vacation, or live on the mountain,the condo lifestyle may be right for you.

LIVE WHERE YOU PLAY!

Why January is a great time to list your home!

You’ve been pondering the idea of listing your home “next year”, but aren’t entirely sure when is the best time to list. You’re friends tell you Spring because that’s when the market picks up. BUT, I’m going to give you 3 reasons to list your home in JANUARY!!

  1. There are fewer houses on the market – which means less competition and greater chance at receiving an offer
  2. People that are looking at houses in January are serious buyers!
  3. Corporate relocation – One of the biggest months for employee relocation is January, you might just sell to a newcomer to your town!

Okay, now that you’ve decided to list in January, here are some helpful tips for winter showings:

  1. Bake cookies for the potential buyers – the smell, the thought, and the taste will leave an imprint in their memory with the house.
  2. Have summer photos of the house, yard, and neighborhood.
  3. Keep driveway and sidewalk clear of snow and ice at all times!
  4. Turn the heat up a notch or two prior to showings, and if you have a fireplace, turn it on for extra ambiance.

Listing your property in January may just ensure you get the right price and beat the spring saturation!

Call Joan Wolf today if you want results, passion, and perseverance!

C- 778-231-0308

E- [email protected]