Happy Holidays from the Vrecko team

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We at Vrecko Real Estate Group wish you a happy holiday season!

 

holiday at Big White Snowy View

No matter what you are spending your holiday season doing, we hope it brings you the most joy! There are so many family activities to do during the holiday season in the Okanagan, with many indoor and outdoor options.

Big White Ski Resort

The Nutcracker

SilverStar Mountain Resort

Big White Ski Resort is the perfect getaway during the holiday season. Enjoy a stay in the breathtaking mountain area of Big White while you ski or snowboard down the slopes. Big White is the perfect spot to have a vacation property, Vrecko Real Estate Group loves working with clients to find their dream property at Big White Ski Resort. From your beautiful new property, you can enjoy Big Whites recurring firework show on Saturday nights! Contact our knowledgeable agents to inquire about properties at Big White.

is a holiday classic. Join the Mission Dance Centre & Company at the Rotary Centre for the Arts this season from December 22 – 23 to enjoy a beautiful ballet performance.

304-7700 Porcupine holiday Big White Deck ViewJoin SilverStar Mountain Resort in celebrating the holiday season with many exciting events. Beginning December 21st SilverStar is implementing ‘12 Days of Holidays” where you can win gifts while enjoying the slopes this season. SilverStar also offers many other events this season such as holiday movies, craft nights, and skiing with Santa! 

Whether you prefer to stay home, spend time with loved ones, or have an adventure, from us at Vrecko Real Estate Group we sincerely wish you the happiest of Holidays! We appreciate each and every one of our clients and look forward to the 2023 year with our clients!

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Fall activities in Kelowna

The beautiful brisk fall weather is here which means fall activities in Kelowna! 

From hikes, pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and haunted walks, you will want to add these events to your list of fall activities in Kelowna

1. Hiking

Kelowna is home to many fantastic hiking spots for all abilities.  Hiking fulfills the nature lover’s venture of fall activities in Kelowna.  The Myra Canyon Trestles are the perfect hike with a flat elevation and the ability to go the distance you please while soaking up the astounding views of the Okanagan lake, Kelowna and West Kelowna.  “City on the Edge of Forever and Daze of Roses Loop” is a longer, more challenging hike that offers beautiful forestry, mountain, and lake Okanagan views.

2. Pumpkin Patches

Kelowna is full of local farms that sell fresh fruit, vegetables, and of course pumpkins!  A favorite fall activity in Kelowna includes everything pumpkins!  Various farms throughout the Okanagan have pumpkin patches where you can enjoy a walk through the patches and offer pre-picked and u-pick to take home and carve!  Patches that offer u-pick include McMillan Farms Pumpkin Patch and Gambell Farms.

3. Corn Mazes

Corn Mazes are one of the must-do fall activities in Kelowna.  Offering many corn mazes, including spooky haunted-themed mazes.  If you stop by Mcmillian Farms for the Pumpkin Patch they also have a corn maze, hay rides, animals, and more!  Farm Scene Investigation at Kelowna is home to the biggest corn maze in Kelowna which provides you with an interactive mysterious experience.  If you are a fan of spooky activities, the Kelowna Corn Maze offers your regular, enjoyable maze walk then after dusk… the screams begin!  The Kelowna Corn Maze also has an outdoor theatre to enjoy a movie after going through the maze!

Endless options are available to explore for fall activities in Kelowna.  Options such as hiking, local farms and pumpkin patches, and corn mazes are among the vast fall activities in Kelowna. If you’re in the market for a new home come and check out Vrecko Real Estate Group’s beautiful listings at our open houses this fall.

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Kelowna Offers The Finer Things In Life – Including Luxury Living

Your Luxury Home & Dream Lifestyle Awaits

If you’re looking for a luxury lifestyle encompassing the finest in waterfront living, Kelowna is the place to be. With gorgeous high-rise condos that capture breathtaking lake and valley views, modern high-end townhouses, and luxury lakeshore homes of every style, Kelowna is the ideal destination for those in pursuit of the finer things in life.

Yes, Kelowna real estate is a little pricier than other parts of the country but it’s easy to see why…and fall in love with all the city has to offer.

  • Kelowna has a spectacular lake with easy access to sandy beaches.
  • If you like to be active outdoors, numerous boating, biking, hiking and golfing adventures await you.
  • Want to get creative? Find your perfect beachfront or mountain lot and build your dream house. 

Maybe you love red, white…or bubbles. The valley plays host to more award-winning wineries than you could ever hope to visit while breweries and cideries are soaring in popularity. Downtown luxury townhouses and condos near or on the water are just steps away from a huge variety of fine restaurants serving fresh and local ingredients. Those same steps will take you to a downtown cultural district featuring high-quality theatre shows, museums, and art galleries. For the sports fan in you, Kelowna plays host to a competitive junior hockey and football team. 

Luxury living in Kelowna doesn’t end there. The list of attractions is endless and our expert real estate team is here to help you find your luxury dream Luxury Hone in Kelowna home here. No matter what you seek, we can help you explore the different neighbourhood features … and get a feel for what you fancy! Arriving from somewhere else? Our relocation guide and intuitive real estate agents will walk you through what you need to know. Let us put our Kelowna realty industry knowledge and passion to work for you today in finding your perfect home. 

We can’t wait to meet you! Get ready to settle in and enjoy the finer things in life. 

Become a Vrecko client. Call one of their professional real estate agents for any of your real estate needs.

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Things to do in Kelowna

Summer is finally here! From wineries to gorgeous beaches and mountain trails the Okanagan has all the summer activities you’d need! With so many things to do in Kelowna, we handpicked a few activities you can indulge in this season just by yourself or with your friends and family!

  • Taste some local wine and cider

Kelowna is the birthplace of BC wine. Kelowna and surrounding areas feature eight separate wine-making regions. The modern lake city is just minutes from Kelowna’s five wine trails with award-winning wineries. Grapes to Grains is Kelowna Downtown’s self-guided tour of wineries, breweries, distilleries, and a cidery. The BC Tree Fruits Cidery is in the heart of downtown and something you should not miss as one of your summer activities!

  • Prospera Place

The Prospera Place is home to the Kelowna Rockets of the Western Hockey League and attracts major entertainers and events to the heart of our Cultural District. Visit their website to check all the upcoming events this season. 

  • Golfing

Kelowna is an incredibly picturesque setting in which to play one of the oldest sports in the world. There are many world-class golf courses here and Kelowna is known to have one of the longest, driest golf seasons you can find. With over 2000 hours of sun annually, you can often play for 7-8 months out of the year. Gallagher’s Canyon and the Harvest Golf Clubs were ranked as two of the top 15 courses in BC by SCOREGolf and the other courses are no slouch either.

  • Hiking 

Kelowna is known for all sorts of outdoor activities with trails galore. Try bicycling, hiking, or walking along the Mission Creek Greenway that runs through town or head up to Myra Canyon along the trestles of the old Kettle Valley railroad.

  • Water Sports

Have a paddle in a kayak, on a SUP, or simply take a swim at one of Kelowna’s many beaches. Launch your boat or sea-doo from one of the public areas, or find a local rental company at the Downtown Marina where you can rent boats & watercraft.

 

Kelowna is the largest city in the Okanagan Valley, boasting all the amenities of a major city – fine dining, unique shops and vibrant cultural life – yet orchards and vineyards thrive within a 10-minute drive of the downtown core. When you are buying property in Kelowna and surrounding areas, you are buying a lifestyle. No matter what your budget is, the Vrecko Real Estate Group can help you find your piece of paradise. Keep up to date on Real Estate market statistics and read about the different areas of Kelowna and its neighborhoods.

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Staging A Home In Winter

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Although the winter months are a not-so-popular time to sell a home, there are many benefits that will be favorable towards selling one during this season. A huge plus is reduced competition. At a time when demand is high for homes in Kelowna, you are more likely to sell yours within a short period of time. Here are a few tips for you to stage your home during the winter season and make your property a show-stopping spectacle for potential buyers.

 

Keep your abode cozy

During a showing, it’s always important to keep the house warm for potential buyers. Raising the temperature to 70 degrees will maintain a comfortable climate inside your home. This can help potential buyers to focus on the property’s features more comfortably. 

The curb appeal still matters

Winter months are hard to rely on flowering plants to have that perfect curb appeal. One option is to have cold-weather plants. You can jazz up your front door by giving it a fresh coat of paint and have some outdoor furniture that looks cozy and inviting on the front porch as the eyes of anyone visiting your home will naturally focus on what’s at your entrance.

Clear walkways and driveways

As a seller, it’s important to keep the walkways and driveways clear especially if it has snowed during the winter. It’s important to put down salt if there is excessive ice on the ground. Ensuring the safety of potential buyers during a viewing is very important when selling your home.

Lots of lighting

The first impression of a home at all times is a home with natural light in abundance. This can be a challenge during a gloomy winter day. It’s essential to have the spaces well-lit where natural light is difficult to reach. 

Get Organised

Winter can be tough on your floors. No one wants to see muddy footprints during a viewing. Have lots of floor mats to wipe the mud off the shoes or choose to provide disposable shoe covers for viewers. It is also essential to store your winter gear in an organized manner. Having your coats hung and shoes laid on racks will go a long way. Through occasional sweeping, vacuuming, and a mop between viewings, you can make your home look the best for every prospective buyer.

 

Winter months are a perfect time to sell your home as real estate agents are less busy and could give you additional attention and help market your property at a time when competition is less. If you are thinking of selling your home Quincy and Vrecko Associates are happy to provide you with an evaluation at no cost! To learn more about the benefits of listing with us, click here.

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Top 5 Winter Holiday Activities in Kelowna

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It’s finally December and we are already in the Christmas cheer and thinking of ways to fill the weekends in Kelowna this holiday season. We have got a selection of some of the best things to do in Kelowna; events that are offering safe Christmas experiences for families this year. Here are the top 5!

1. Mission Hill Tree Festival

In support of BC Children’s Hospital and their Healthy Minds Centre, Mission Hill Winery is currently underway with its 5th Annual Season of Trees. The event will be running until the 23rd of December. Those guests that book a Season of Trees Tasting on Sundays can also visit the evergreen pop-up market on the Loggia showcasing many local vendors and artisans.

2. Kettle Valley Santa Parade

Lace-up your boots to witness the annual “Macy’s Christmas Parade” of Kettle Valley! The Santa Clause Parade will surely impress both children and adults! The parade will set off on the 11th of December from 5 PM via Quilchena Dr and McCarren Ave, continued by a photo session with Santa and friends at the Kettle Valley Public on Main Pub. This annual event is organized in support of the Central Okanagan Food Bank and the Youth Recovery Centre. Don’t miss out on this event!

3. Stuart Park Skating Rink

The Stuart Park skating rink is the centerpiece for the downtown being the city’s most picturesque spot for an outdoor skate. Skating at the Stuart Park has been a popular winter tradition in Kelowna every Christmas season. This year, COVID – 19 safety measures are taken into consideration, and therefore residents can check the crowd conditions beforehand through a live cam. The rink will be open daily from 6 AM until 11 PM for three months before it shuts down in late February.

4. Festive Market at Quails Gate

Enjoy this holiday season at Okanagan’s, one of the festive vineyards! Make a quick visit to Quails Gate Winery this December. Stay cozy around the fire with some complimentary mulled wine while enjoying the local entertainment and local shopping experience. Head to the artisan market to check out some local cheeses and desserts that could be perfect holiday gifts for your loved ones! The festive shop is open on Fridays and Saturdays from 4 PM to 8 PM until the 18th of December.

5. Christmas events at O’keefe Ranch

The Victorian Christmas at O’Keefe ranch returns once again this year! A few minutes drive from the city, the ranch has a lot to offer during the holiday season. You will be welcomed by beautifully decorated heritage buildings, Santa Clause, wagon rides and live music. Head to the General store for some amazing baked goods and hot drinks. While enjoying Christmas caroling you can roasted chestnuts, Christmas contests and much more. The ranch will be open for guests on the weekends till 19th December from 10 AM to 4 PM.

 

Shop Local

This year, due to concerns about the supply chain, online shopping and lots of delayed shipping experiences, holiday shopping might be a little overwhelming and stressful. Here are some QVA recommendations to shop local. We wish you a happy and safe holiday season!

 

 

 

 

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2021 Big White Real Estate Market

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The 2021 Real Estate market has been like never before, and the prices of homes have experienced a huge jump overall with some of the lowest inventory we have seen. Big White is no exception: Steve Hyndman specializes in recreation properties and gives us the inside look into the Big White market, what has caused this shift and what we can expect to see as a result of this crazy market!

Big White real estate market QVA

How has the Big White Market Changed in 2021?

Before the pandemic, Big White had a very balanced market, I would even say it was a buyer’s market. Due to covid, Big White sales have started to explode and that has caused inventory to dry up.

 

 

 

What has caused this shift in the 2021 Big White Real Estate Market?

 

  • The Rental Market is Hot 

Many factors have contributed to the shift we are seeing in the 2021 Big White market. The pandemic has caused many of the people that currently own Big White properties to rethink listing in the current climate. Since Big White is a winter recreational resort, they are usually secondary properties and tend to bring in great rental income, especially now that the rent has gone up due to more people staying local and travel has become less frequent.

Big White real estate market

  • Out of Town Buyers

Another major factor in the low inventory is a high number of out-of-town buyers that are ‘safe haven’ buying. Big white is a great place to self-isolate and offers guaranteed rental income. The pandemic has caused interest rates to go down, and that has a huge effect on the movement of Big White properties as well.

  • Low-Interest Rate

Because the interest rate is so low right now, it is making recreation properties more serviceable in terms of debt load, and this is causing buyers from all over a jump on the opportunity!

  • Small Market

Big White has always been a smaller market and it is a great selling point. A lot of people buy at Big White because it provides a great feeling of community, has some of the best Ski-in & Ski-out properties, and is close to major cities. Big white being a small resort has caused it to be very reactionary to the changes we have been seeing in the 2021 Real Estate Market overall.

How do you think Big White will continue to be affected?

Big White has always been a more affordable option in the Okanagan, but recently it has exceeded the last market peak in 2008. In the past 8 to 10 years, there hasn’t been much development, and I predict this will change in the next 2 to 5 years. Prices at  Big White are back up but there have not been any new builds, meaning no new inventory has been added to the market in almost a decade! That sounds like an untapped opportunity. I think you can expect to see new developments and expansion at Big White.

 

 

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Lots and New Builds in the Current Real Estate Market

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The current real estate market has been anything but quiet, things are moving fast. But what does this mean for lots and new builds? We asked some questions to our lot and new build expert Chris Ward, who recently celebrated 30 years with RE/MAX. His expertise shone some light on this confusing yet exciting market.

 

Tell me about the differences you’ve noticed in this 2020-2021 real estate market when it comes to lots and new builds.

Last year, in 2020, lots were stagnant and inventory levels were not tremendously affected. With the advent of COVID-19, particularly this year, inventory levels of existing homes increased and the focus was turned towards building lots, and they started to disappear at a tremendous rate. Right now, anything that is finished is probably sold or has an offer on it.

 

If lots are going so fast, how does this affect new builds?

The challenge for the builders, because of COVID and a variety of other manufacturing issues, is that lumber is up 140%. Everything tin related such as furnaces are up 30%. Lumber and building supplies escalation clauses are being put in place in purchase agreements. This is a significant change and slows building down. Because of the increased cost, we haven’t seen homes come onto the market quite as quickly as the lot sales indicate, but they’re coming.

 

When should we be able to see the new builds from these lot sales?

I would say probably in the fall. It usually takes 6 to 8 months to build a 2500sqft house, depending on where you’re at. So, if lots have sold in March, they’ll be ready by the end of the year. We should see lots of new home products, finished products, on the market towards the end of the year and the beginning of next year.

 

In your opinion, was it a better investment to build yourself in the past compared to today?

Good question, because everything went up, houses are selling over the listing price, so what does that mean for new builds? New builds go in at a fixed cost, so probably will still be the same. There are times in the market when existing is cheaper than built, and there are times when built isn’t necessarily cheaper but there’s more of them available. I’ve been selling new products since around 1991. In 2003-2005, I was getting builders to buy lots, selling houses out of a catalog. Because at the time you could find lots.

 

What else has surprised you in the current real estate market?

In January we had a 30-lot subdivision for sale with only 3 deals on them. Now, they’re all sold, buts it’s mostly due to out-of-town builders. The market for the Okanagan became much more widespread than it was before. We used to get 6% of buyers from the coast, now the numbers from the lower mainland have surged, and along with them came the builders. Lots of different trends have happened, not since the start of COVID, but mostly since the start of this year. 2020 was not that affected, we still had good inventory levels. It all happened in 2021, I think because COVID has settled in and people don’t really see an end in sight, so they’re changing their focus.

 

What would be your advice for people looking to buy a lot and build in this market?

I still think it’s a really good idea. What you do have to understand is that you might not be able to get a definitive price, and if you’re a high ratio buyer, that’s not a safe place to be. If you have 20% down, it’s a really good place to be. But you do need patience because they’re having a hard time getting supplies, it won’t be finished for months. What used to take 8 months now can take 10 to 12. So as long as you’re not in a rush and have a place to stay, you’re good to go!

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Relocating to Kelowna: Getting to Know the Neighborhood

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In this market, many are considering relocating to Kelowna. Relocating is an exciting and uncertain time, with so much unfamiliarity coming your way, preparation is key. We spoke to Drew Irvine, our Wilden Luxury specialist, on the most exciting neighborhoods of Kelowna and what they can bring to your dream Okanagan lifestyle.

 

Drew, tell us about the most sought-after neighborhoods and what makes them ideal for relocation to the Okanagan?

Okanagan living is like no other. With sunshine and endless activities, choosing the right neighborhood for you is of most importance. Wilden is absolutely one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in Kelowna, with its modern homes, incredible lake views, and ideal location. Quite similar is the neighborhood of High Pointe in the lower Glenmore area. In South Kelowna, Kettle Valley and Lower Mission are also great options. On the other side of the bridge, the Mission Hill Winery area is beautiful and boasts amazing views. All these neighborhoods have great locations, beautiful homes and are close to all amenities.

 

 

You specialize in Wilden Luxury homes, what makes this neighborhood so special?

Wilden is known for its amazing city, valley and lake views, and luxurious homes. Most of the homes are brand new construction or built in the last 5 years, which means no renovations are required and these homes are move-in ready. Additionally, they often feature great outdoor living spaces and inground pools.  Wilden also has a really great, quiet community. The location is more than ideal, about halfway in between downtown Kelowna and the airport. With a 10-minute drive to the yacht club, Wilden is the best way to have stunning views in a quiet area and still be close to the lake and cultural center. Not to mention the amazing hiking trails and golf courses nearby. It’s an ideal neighborhood for someone looking to enjoy the Okanagan lifestyle.

 

Speaking of the Okanagan lifestyle, tell us more about it and how Wilden caters to it?

Of course, the Okanagan lifestyle is known for its amazing weather. For example, Toronto summers in comparison are extremely sticky and humid, making the heat unbearable. Kelowna summers are dry, long, and pleasant. Perfect for enjoying the lake and patios. Winters are shorter and much milder than the rest of Canada, and if you’re looking to enjoy some winter activities, Big White Ski Resort is a short way away. In the Okanagan Valley, you’re also avoiding all the Vancouver rain. Additionally, Kelowna is growing and developing some amazing areas. Downtown is becoming a great cultural center. Kelowna General Hospital is an amazing teaching hospital, which recently included a heart center. This is a great thing to have right in your city. Relocating to Kelowna brings you the perfect blend of city living and quiet nature. With its beaches, hiking trails, golf courses, wineries, patios, and tons of beautiful neighborhoods to choose from. Wilden brings all of that together and adds luxury to the blend. With these turn-key modern properties, you’re ready to move in and start enjoying the lifestyle right away!

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2021 Real Estate Market in Kelowna

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Yes, the current real estate market is red hot, but what does that mean to you as a buyer or as a seller? What are your options? How do you navigate this crazy market to make it work for you?

The state of Real Estate: This real estate series is an inside look and professional advice on what the heck is going on in this 2021 market! The current real estate market is certainly interesting and unpredictable. The Kelowna real estate market is changing on a daily basis and is proving to be frustrating for both buyers and sellers. Where common catchphrases of this past year include the “new normal” and “social distancing”, in the real estate world, these phrases are “multiple offers” and “seller’s market”. However, one common phrase they both have in common …unprecedented.

 

“The New Normal”

How is this “new normal” changing the face of real estate as we know it? We reach out to each team member at Quincy Vrecko and Associates to discuss their professional thoughts on every aspect of how the market is changing and their experience with the current real estate market.

 

In this series we will cover:

• Multiple offers from the perspective of the buyer and the seller
• Relocating to Kelowna
• New home construction and lot sales
• Luxury housing market
• Condominiums and townhouses

 

Over the last year, the pandemic brought some unexpected changes. What was about to happen following the lockdown was clearly unpredictable to even to the best of those in the know. In March 2020, CMHC forecasted an 18% decrease in property values and warned of a crash in the real estate market.

What a difference a year makes…

Fast forward to March 2021 and the current real estate market is registering record-breaking sales week after week. With the average price of single-family homes hitting an astonishing $900 000 sellers are in the driver’s seat and buyers are being left in the dust.

 

Sellers

As a seller, while the market is in your favor, you should not just have anyone representing your largest investment. Setting up the listing for success is the key to realizing the top dollar for your home. Photos and virtual tours are key tools to present your home not only with restrictions due to Covid but to a large number of out-of-town buyers. Currently, out-of-town buyers make up 41% of our overall homebuyers in the Okanagan.

 

Buyers

If you are a buyer in this market, it is more important than ever to have proper representation. An experienced agent on your side making sure you have the upper hand at securing a property over other bidders. An experienced agent with a strong connection will give you the upper hand in getting you in the right home at the right place.

 

 

 

 

Check-in each week as we discuss topics related to the current real estate market situation and answer questions from buyers and sellers. We look to the experience and expertise of the team members at Quincy Vrecko and Associates, one of the top teams for Re/MAX Kelowna. Every team member will offer their advice and suggestions on how to stay sane in this truly crazy real estate market.

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