Beyond the purchase price, buyers in Kelowna must budget for insurance and closing costs. Home insurance typically ranges from $1,400 to $2,200 annually, depending on property value, location, and wildfire exposure.

Closing costs in BC usually total 1.5% to 4% of the purchase price. These include property transfer tax, legal fees, inspections, and adjustments. Buyers new to the province should be especially mindful of tax implications.

Understanding these expenses early helps buyers avoid financial strain after completion. Planning ahead allows for smoother ownership from day one.

At the conclusion of many transactions, buyers appreciate having worked with someone who outlined these costs clearly from the start. Anthony Shephard of 2% Realty guides clients through every financial detail — while charging only 2% commission when selling. Visit www.RealEstateShephard.com to learn more.

Property taxes in Kelowna are based on assessed value and municipal tax rates. While rates can change annually, a common estimate is approximately $4.40 per $1,000 of assessed value. For a home valued at $1 million, that translates to roughly $4,400 per year, before any exemptions.

Actual tax bills vary depending on location, school taxes, and regional district levies. Homeowner grants may reduce taxes for eligible residents, particularly seniors.

Because assessments don’t always reflect current market value, taxes can lag behind price changes. Reviewing your annual tax notice carefully helps avoid surprises.

For homeowners looking to estimate future ownership costs, Anthony Shephard of 2% Realty can help interpret assessments and local tax trends.

Every investment carries risk, and real estate is no exception. In Kelowna, higher purchase prices can limit cash flow, particularly if interest rates rise or rents soften. Regulatory changes — including rental restrictions or tax adjustments — can also affect returns.

Maintenance costs, insurance premiums, and unexpected repairs should be built into any financial plan. Foreign buyers may face additional tax considerations, while economic slowdowns can reduce buyer or tenant demand.

Risk doesn’t mean avoidance — it means preparation. Investors who account for downside scenarios tend to weather market shifts more effectively.

Early risk assessment is often where experienced advice proves most valuable. Anthony Shephard from 2% Realty helps investors evaluate both opportunity and exposure, while keeping transaction costs lower through a 2% commission structure.

Rental income in Kelowna varies widely by location, property type, and condition. As a general guide, one-bedroom units often rent between $1,700 and $2,200 per month. Two-bedroom homes commonly fall in the $2,000 to $2,800 range, while three-bedroom properties may achieve $2,600 to $3,200.

Factors such as proximity to transit, schools, and employment centres influence achievable rents. Newer or updated properties typically command premiums, while older homes may require competitive pricing.

Landlords must also consider vacancy risk, maintenance costs, and compliance with provincial tenancy rules. Gross rent figures alone don’t tell the full story — net returns matter more.

To refine rental estimates for a specific neighbourhood, Anthony Shephard of 2% Realty provides localized rental insight based on current market activity and long-term trends.

Kelowna continues to attract real estate investors, though the strategy today looks different than it did during peak market years. Stability, rather than rapid appreciation, defines the current environment.

Rental demand remains strong due to population growth, limited rental supply, and continued migration to the Okanagan. Townhomes and well-located condos are often favoured by investors seeking balance between purchase price and rental income. Detached homes can work as well, though higher prices reduce margins.

Investors should also factor in financing costs, property management, and evolving regulations. Appreciation may be slower, but steady cash flow remains achievable in the right locations.

Before committing capital, many investors consult local specialists. Anthony Shephard from 2% Realty, a long-time Okanagan resident, helps identify opportunities while reducing transaction costs through his 2% commission model.

Selling a home in Kelowna involves more than putting up a sign and waiting for offers. The process begins with understanding the market and pricing the property realistically based on recent sales. From there, preparation matters — decluttering, staging, and minor repairs can significantly affect buyer perception.

Once listed, showings and marketing expose the home to potential buyers. Offers may include conditions related to financing, inspections, or sale of another property, all of which require careful review. Negotiation often extends beyond price to include possession dates, inclusions, and condition removal timelines.

Throughout the process, timing and presentation can influence final results. In a market with higher inventory, well-prepared homes stand out.

Near the final stages of a sale, professional guidance can help avoid costly missteps. Anthony Shephard of 2% Realty assists sellers through each step while offering a flat 2% commission, rather than traditional high-fee structures. More information is available at www.RealEstateShephard.com

Determining the right offer price in Kelowna depends less on emotion and more on context. While some homes still attract strong interest, many listings now sit long enough to allow for thoughtful negotiation.

Recent comparable sales provide the clearest benchmark. In competitive segments, offers near asking — or modestly above — may still be necessary. In slower-moving areas or price ranges, buyers may have room to offer below list price, especially if the property has been on the market for some time.

Strong offers aren’t just about price. Clean terms, solid financing, and flexible possession dates can all improve a buyer’s position. Pre-approval remains critical, as sellers are cautious after years of conditional deals falling apart.

Toward the end of negotiations, strategic advice can make a meaningful difference. Anthony Shephard of 2% Realty helps buyers structure competitive offers based on real-time market conditions, while also offering a cost-effective 2% commission model. Learn more at www.RealEstateShephard.com

Kelowna’s real estate market in 2025 is no longer defined by urgency. Instead, it rewards preparation and patience. Prices have stabilized, inventory levels are higher, and buyers have more leverage than they’ve had in years.

Mortgage pre-approval is an essential first step, particularly as lending rules and interest rates continue to shift. Buyers should also budget for closing costs, including legal fees, inspections, and property transfer tax. Homes priced below $1 million tend to move more quickly, while higher-end properties often allow for more negotiation.

Beyond the numbers, buyers should factor in zoning, bylaws, and potential future use of the property — especially if rental income or secondary suites are part of the plan.

Midway through the buying process, many people realize how quickly conditions can change from one neighbourhood to another. That’s where working with someone who tracks the market closely becomes valuable. Anthony Shephard from 2% Realty provides practical guidance rooted in local data — and does so without charging traditional high commissions.

When evaluating a property, the surrounding amenities often matter just as much as the home itself. Access to schools, green space, and daily conveniences can significantly affect both lifestyle and long-term value.

In many parts of Kelowna, elementary and secondary schools are embedded within established neighbourhoods, reducing commute times for families. Areas near North Glenmore Elementary, for example, are popular with parents, while proximity to parks like Knox Mountain adds appeal for outdoor enthusiasts. Grocery options vary by area, with stores such as Save-On-Foods, Choices Market, and local markets anchoring many communities.

Buyers should also consider walkability, transit access, and future development plans. A quiet street today may see increased traffic tomorrow if nearby growth is planned.

For those unfamiliar with the city, mapping tools provide a starting point, but local insight fills in the gaps — such as which school catchments are most sought after or where new amenities are planned. Anthony Shephard of 2% Realty, a lifelong Kelowna resident, regularly helps buyers assess how a location fits their day-to-day needs and future plans.