Friday 30 December 2016

New Listing in Shannon Lake!

Excellent Family Home in Shannon Lake. Huge 4 bedroom home with 2 full floors of finished space and a full unfinished basement wired for in-law suite ready to be completed. Maple kitchen with island, hardwood floors. Over 4,000 square feet when completed. Ready for home business. Great potential. Call or text Steve Higgins RE/MAX Kelowna 250-864-7893  for showings.

Wednesday 14 December 2016

New Listing in Glenmore......don't wait on this one!

PERFECT FAMILY HOME is waiting for you ! Centrally located within walking distance to top-notch elementary and middle schools, this 4 bedroom plus den, 4 bath home has everything you were looking for. Completely updated throughout, there is nothing to do but move in and enjoy the space. This home won't last in the much desired North Glenmore neighborhood, so act quickly before its gone. Please call or text Steve Higgins 250.864.7893

Thursday 24 November 2016

New Listing in Black Mountain $775,000.00


This Gorgeous Custom Built Walkout Rancher has amazing lake views. High end finishes throughout including beautiful hardwood floors and 11' ceilings. Stunning master bedroom and 2nd bedroom or office/den on main floor. Heated floors in ensuite, kitchen, pantry and the entire lower level. Walk out basement with 9' ceilings and separate entrance to be easily suited. Beautiful Rec Room with Bar and Wine Cellar. 2 very large bedrooms down. Granite Countertops, Hardwood, Nuvo Sound System throughout the home and 2 decks. Bubble Tub, RO Water Filters, topless glass deck, closet organizers, French doors with Phantom Screen and much much more. You must see this house to appreciate all the extras. Call or text Steve Higgins RE/MAX Kelowna 250-864-7893 to arrange a private showing.

Wednesday 9 November 2016

October Market Report

The month of October felt like a wet blanket was laid over the entire valley! However, the damp weather didn’t seem to dampen the real estate market. Our market continues to show its typical downward trend as we head into winter, but sales showed a year over year increase of 29.51%.

Here are some of the highlights:

Listing inventories increased slightly. Listings were 699 for the month of October this year compared to 644 for October 2015, an 8.54% year over year increase. 

Sales are still increasing year over year, but the percentages are tightening up as we move into the fall/winter market. Sales were only up 10.67% in October - to 529 in 2016 from 478 sales in 2015.

House prices are up - The price of a single-family home in October 2016 was $613,148 compared to $524,974 in October 2015, an increase of 16.8%.

Houses are selling faster - The average number of days on the market for residential properties has decreased to 50 days in October 2016 from 67 days in October 2015. There continues to be talk in the media about the house prices in Canada and the need to cool down overheated markets although most of the country isn’t experiencing what Toronto is and what Vancouver once was experiencing. On a bright note for Kelowna, the new CHMC Housing Market Outlook just released, shines a very steady light on Kelowna.
The report is reinforcing what we are seeing, that the Kelowna market will continue to see moderate but steady growth for 2017 and 2018.

Here are a couple of highlights from the report: 

A significant increase in multiple-family housing starts along with steady construction of single-detached homes will result in a higher number of total housing starts in 2016 with some moderation in 2017 and 2018.
MLS sales will end the year at a new record level followed by some moderation over the forecast horizon. MLS average prices are expected to increase significantly in 2017, partially as a result of a shift towards more high-end sales, followed by more modest gains through 2018.

Population growth is expected to remain steady while employment is expected to pick up, supporting housing demand. As I feel we live in one of the best cities in Canada, we can expect a continued interest in Kelowna and our real estate market.

Monday 12 September 2016

New Listing in West Kelowna.

Just hit the market in West Kelowna!! This home has a gorgeous view of the lake, mission hill winery and mountains. Nicely maintained with 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom plus den home. With an updated bright in-law suite in the basement. Over-sized deck, tile and laminate flooring, with 2 separate laundry's. Great yard with fruit trees, workshop and more!

Saturday 13 August 2016

New Listing in Glenrosa! Not Going to Last Long!!




Wonderful Home 3 bedroom home with a 1 bedroom suite located in a nice family oriented area close to schools and hiking trails. The 1 bedroom suite has a separate entrance through garage that was partially converted for suite entrance. Suite could be converted back to living space as 1 large home. Workshop with access has great potential for small business or hobbies. Room for the boat, RV and all the toys. Fully fenced for the dog. Priced to sell. Please measure if important. All measurements are approximate. Stairs to suite closed off but could be easily opened up for additional space. Home is vacant. Please call or text Steve Higgins RE/MAX Kelowna 250.864.7893

Thursday 21 July 2016

June's Market Report

The British Columbia Real Estate Association reports that a record 12,906 residential unit sales were recorded by MLS in June, up 14.3 per cent from the same month last year. The total sales dollar volume was $8.97 billion in June, up 25.7 per cent compared to last year. The average MLS residential price in the province was up 10 per cent year-over-year, to $694,925

With the robust housing demand in the Lower Mainland, Vancouver Island and the Okanagan drove the sales growth up in June and at the same time, the inventory of homes for sale continues to slide lower creating  very tight market conditions around the province. The supply of resale homes is remarkably low across BC particularly so in Victoria, the Fraser Valley and here in Kelowna in certain price ranges it is very hard to find homes. What little that there is on the market in the $300,000-$550,000.00 price range is gone right away if it is priced right.  

Year-to-date, BC residential sales dollar volume increased 53.2 per cent to $49.9 billion, as  compared with the same period in 2015. Residential unit sales climbed by 30.6 per cent to 67,361 units, while the average MLS residential price was up 17.3 per cent to $741,150.

Sunday 17 July 2016

A Gardener's Dream in Lake Country




Incredible Panoramic Lake Views from this 1.24 acres of land. This home is a Walkout Rancher with 4 very large Bedrooms and 4 Baths, with a huge Family Room. It also has a 1 Bedroom Suite in the walkout basement.
There is a 1400 SF Shop/Barn which would be perfect for your business or hobbies. The Barn/Shop has a second level loft with a ton of potential
This Beautiful property offers total privacy and is only steps away from 4 Wineries and Davidson Elementary School. There is lots of room for parking the RV, boat and more. Bring your hobby and imagination.
This property could be a gardeners dream.
Call or text Steve Higgins RE/MAX Kelowna to arrange viewing. 250.864.7893

Thursday 30 June 2016

New Listing in Magnolia Gardens $212,000.00




This 780 sq.ft. condo is a bright 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom with South East Exposure,
with a large  modern kitchen and eating bar. Open Dining and Living room floor plan.
Large deck. Has a clubhouse with an exercise area. Your own 5x7 storage locker.
There is also a hobby-workshop area, guest suite if needed, small pets <16" are allowed.
This building is a 19 years+ building. Great location close to shopping and transit.
Parking spot.
Call or text Steve Higgins RE/MAX Kelowna 250.864.7893



Tuesday 28 June 2016

Just Hit the Market! $225,000.00


This corner unit is a 2 bedroom and 1 bath in a great location within walking distance to downtown. If you would like to live downtown here is your opportunity. It is also a great investment as a rental. This building allows rentals with no age restrictions. Any size dog allowed. Offers presented Thursday June 30th. Call or text Steve Higgins RE/MAX Kelowna to view 250-864-7893

Saturday 25 June 2016

BC's Market is Hot!

The British Columbia Real Estate Association is reporting that a record 13,458 residential unit sales were recorded by the MLS in May, up 32.3 per cent from the same month last year. Home sales last month have exceeded April's record of 12,969 units. Total sales dollar volume was $9.72 billion in May, up 51.1 per cent compared to the previous year.

The average MLS residential price in the province was up 14.2 per cent year-over-year, to $722,146. We have to take in account that Vancouver is driving this. Record housing demand and dwindling inventories are continuing to push home prices higher in most BC regions. With total active residential listings across the province are nearly 30 per cent lower than twelve months ago. New home construction activity is at a near record pace in the province. In the Metro Vancouver market, a record number of homes are now under construction. Once the current crop of homes are ready for occupancy there will likely be more selection for home buyers and less upward pressure on home prices.

Year-to-date, BC residential sales dollar volume has increased 62 per cent to $41 billion, when compared with the same period in 2015. Residential unit sales climbed by 35.2 per cent to 54,455 units, while the average MLS residential price was up 19 per cent to $752,105.00

Sunday 12 June 2016

Kelowna's Market.

So, how’s the market? This is the question I get asked more than any other! The quick answer is, it’s very BUSY or at least it has been for me. But this question actually has two answers and it depends whether you’re a buyer or a seller.

Sellers, of course, are ecstatic because when they make the decision to sell their home, it is not a 4 or 5-month process of home showings and waiting for that all elusive showing appointment or offer. Sellers are seeing an almost immediate response when they list their homes, especially if the price is below $650,000. Some are selling the first day on the market with multiple offers.

Buyers, on the other hand, are finding it a little more challenging to get the perfect home. With lower than normal inventory levels and higher demand for listings, buyers who aren’t working with a professional agent, that is full time and on top of the current market, don’t even get the opportunity to act on a property before it’s gone.

Here are some of the market highlights:
• Residential listing inventories are down - listing inventories decreased by just .5 % from May 2015 to May 2016 and by 2.44% year to-date compared to 2015.
• Residential sales are up - way up! - Sales increased by a whopping 42.73% from May 2015 compared to May 2016 and a 30.98%
increase year to-date over 2015.
• Average house prices are up! – the price of a single family home in May 2016 was up by 19.23% compared to $504,262 in May 2015.
• Residential properties are selling faster – the average number of days on the market has decreased to 53 days in May 2016 from 71 days in May 2015.

Buyer gridlock, a term that refers to a situation where sellers are hesitant to list their properties for sale because of a lack of inventory or affordable options to move to when their home sells. As a result, they are staying where they are and making it work and that’s limiting the number of entry level options for buyers who are trying to get into the market. We are starting to hear sellers voicing this concern in the Okanagan.

As this starts to become a reality, it will lower inventories further making it more difficult to find the perfect home. This has been an issue in Toronto and Vancouver markets for some time, but as sales continue to increase and inventories remain low in the Okanagan, we expect to see more of this creeping into our market.

Tuesday 31 May 2016

Now is the Time to Buy as Prices are going UP!

The British Columbia Real Estate Association reports that a record number of  residential unit sales were recorded by the Multiple Listing Service in April, there were 12,969 that is up 30.3 per cent from the same month last year. Home sales last month beat March’s record of 12,560 units. Total sales dollar volume was $9.64 billion in April, up 52.7 per cent compared to the previous year. The average MLS  residential price in the province was up 17.2 per cent year-over-year, to $743,640. The housing demand has been exceptionally strong across the southern regions of the province. Who doesn't want to live in the sunny Okanagan!! The consumers appear to be particularly active in the Thompson/Okanagan, the Vancouver Island, and the Fraser Valley regions.

Strong employment growth is helping boost the consumer confidence. The BC economy has employed more than 78,000 additional workers during the first four months of the year, that is an increase of 3.5 per cent compared to the same period last year. The year-to-date, BC residential sales dollar volume increased 64.3 per cent to $31.2 billion, when compared with the same period in 2015. Residential unit sales climbed by 36.2 per cent to 28,028 units, while the average MLS residential price was up 20.6 per cent to $761,860.

Saturday 14 May 2016

If You want Lake Views then this is the Home for You!





Enjoy Beautiful Lake Views in this Walk out Rancher 4 Bed 3 Bath with Suite potential. This Open Concept Family Home has hardwood floors in great room & 2 beds on main. 2 Washers and 2 Dryers - up and down! Walkout lower level has two beds, 1 bathroom, kitchen, family room and potential for media room. Close to wineries. Sit on your deck and enjoy the stunning lake views while sipping a glass of wine! Call or text Steve Higgins RE/MAX Kelowna for viewing 250-864-7893

Monday 25 April 2016

The Market is Wild!

The British Columbia Real Estate Association has reported that a record 12,560 residential unit sales were recorded by the MLS in March,that is up 38 per cent from March of last year. Home sales last month have eclipsed the previous record of 11,683 unit sales in May of 2007. Total sales dollar volume was $9.69 billion in March, up 66.9 per cent compared to the previous year.

The average MLS residential price in the province was up 20.2 per cent year-over-year, to $771,620. Housing demand has never been stronger in the province. Most large population centres of the province are now experiencing record levels of housing demand. This being true in Kelowna. With a strong employment growth, rising wages and a marked increase in net inter-provincial migration is fueling the consumer confidence. Supply imbalances are becoming increasingly common as new residential listings are not keeping pace with consumer demand. As a result, the inventory of homes for sale is at decade long lows in many regions.

The year-to-date, BC residential sales dollar volume has increased 70.1 per cent to $21.59 billion, when compared with the same period in 2015. Residential unit sales climbed by 39.2 per cent to 28,028 units, while the average MLS residential price was up 22.2 per cent to $770,408.

Saturday 16 April 2016

Great Townhouse in Dilworth Estates with a View!!


Enjoy Beautiful Lake Views in this Dilworth Homes Built Townhouse. Upgraded Hardwood floors, 4 large Bedrooms. Open Concept Living Room and Large Family Room down. Great deck with Awning and lower level patio. End unit with visitor parking right beside. Built in Speaker & Central Vacuum. Security System, Glass Railing on Deck, Any size dog is allowed. Call or text Steve Higgins RE/MAX Kelowna to view 250-864-7893.

Friday 25 March 2016

Can't beat the Views!

Amazing Custom Home that checks all the boxes. 5 large Bedrooms & Den. 5 Bathrooms, Luxury throughout. Granite, Hardwood, High End SS Appliances. 2 Fireplaces, 2 Master Bedrooms. High end 1 bed suite with 2 decks. Media Room, Wine Cellar, Crown Moldings throughout. 3 Car Garage with Tandem for Shop or Toys. Patio with 2 sided Gas Fireplace and built in BBQ & Fridge. This House Has it all. Room for a pool too. Views of the Lake and UBCO on one side and the Airport on the other. 2 Championship Golf Courses Nearby. Walk to UBCO. New Shopping Coming to Area. Call Steve Higgins RE/MAX Kelowna to view 250-864-7893

Sunday 20 March 2016

It's all about the Location!



Walk to Downtown from this Fantastic Location. 2 beds, 1 bath or 1 bed & Very Large Den. You decide! Updated kitchen, & flooring. Dining and living rooms with fireplace. Large Laundry and storage in suite. Underground parking, with guest parking and storage locker. 2nd bedroom/Den doesn't have a window. Call or text Steve Higgins RE/MAX Kelowna for private viewing. 250-864-7893

Country Living almost in the City!



Solitude and Serenity is waiting for you along with a shop for your Hobbies. 4 Bedroom 3 bath, 2 Storey home with an unfinished basement ready to be customized. Great Location beside acreages and surrounded by mature trees. Room to park your RV and Boat. Beautiful yard. A Must see. Call or text Steve Higgins RE/MAX Kelowna 250-864-7893

Friday 18 March 2016

Just a Quick walk to Downtown!


With this great Location you can walk to Downtown. Half duplex with upper level beautifully updated. This Bi-Level has 2 bedrooms up, 2 bedrooms down and 2 bathrooms. It is 1 block away from Bankhead School & Lombardy Park. This home has a separate entrance that would allow for in-law suite potential. To see this home call or text Steve Higgins RE/MAX Kelowna 250-864-7893

Thursday 10 March 2016

Location, Location! Won't last long!


High End Luxury in a Awesome Location in walking distance to downtown Kelowna. 2 Bed/ 2 Bath Top Floor, Hardwood, Gas Fireplace. Quiet building.  1 Dog & 1 Cat are allowed. Very rare offering in this building. There are Rental restrictions. Waiting list. Convenient Parking Space, a 4x8 Storage Locker. Call Steve Higgins RE/MAX Kelowna 250-864-7893 for viewing.

Friday 4 March 2016

Hot on the Market Today!


This Townhome is in Show Home Condition! Within walking distance to 3 schools and a park. Granite Counter tops, Hardwood, Tile, Vaulted Ceilings, Central Vacuum. Private Backyard. Beautiful Kitchen Open Concept. 4th bedroom or could be a Family Room. Feels like a home that would sell for hundreds of thousands of dollar's more! Family neighborhood. Pets are allowed 1 Dog 17" or smaller or 1 Cat. Stainless Steel Appliances have extended warranty. Must see! 1st time Buyers don't pay Transfer Tax. Call Steve Higgins RE/MAX Kelowna to view. 250-864-7893.

Friday 19 February 2016

Another Great Investment or to Live In!




Great Investment Opportunity. 2 Beds, 2 Baths, 2 Parking stalls. Steps to 2 Great Golf Courses & UBCO. Granite countertops. Large balcony. BBQ, Rentals and pets allowed. Outdoor Pool, Hot tub, and exercise facility. Tenants willing to stay, lease up end of June they are renting for $1275/month. Or move in yourself this summer. Call Steve Higgins RE/MAX Kelowna to view. 250-864-7893