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The HOLM Stretch | February 14, 2025

Chris Holm & Associates

We want you to know that our team is unique in the way we chose to approach real estate here in the North Okanagan.  We are a true real estate co...

We want you to know that our team is unique in the way we chose to approach real estate here in the North Okanagan.  We are a true real estate co...

Feb 14 6 minutes read

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House hunting? 10 smart tips to help you make the right choice

Whether you're just starting your home search or you're already deep into the process, house hunting can be exciting—but it’s easy to get swept up in first impressions.

To help you stay on track and make a smart decision, here are 10 practical tips that will guide you through your search.

1. Location matters: You can change almost anything about a home, but you can’t change its location. Make sure it’s close to the places you frequent—work, schools, and essential services.

2. Pay attention to smells: If you notice odd odours, like dampness, it could point to hidden issues like poor ventilation or mould.

3. Check for even floors: Uneven floors can be a sign of structural problems. Take a moment to notice if anything feels off.

4. Assess natural lighting: Don’t overlook how much natural light flows into the home. It can make a big difference in your comfort.

5. Imagine your furniture in the space: It’s easy to be wowed by staging, but make sure the room sizes and layouts work for your own furniture and lifestyle.

6. Don't forget parking: Ensure there's enough parking for your household, and that your vehicles will comfortably fit.

7. Evaluate laundry space: If the home has laundry facilities, make sure they’re conveniently located. If not, is the nearest option practical for you?

8. Storage is key: Storage space is often overlooked, but it’s important to have enough room to store your belongings without cluttering your living space.

9. Don’t be fooled by staging: Beautiful staging can sometimes hide potential issues. Focus on the bones of the house, not just the decor.

10. Take your time with kitchens and bathrooms: These are the most expensive rooms to renovate. Make sure they meet your standards before making an offer.

A home inspection will provide deeper insights, but keeping these tips in mind can help you avoid wasting time and money on a home that doesn’t fit your needs.

Talk soon,
CHRIS, PATRIC, JULIE, JASMINE, KRISTI & BRELL

Scroll down for our regular real estate and community features.

In North Okanagan Real Estate

As of the morning of Friday February 14, there are 687 homes showing as active listings here in North Okanagan. On February 7,  there were 665 homes active.

Sales ranged from $169,900. to $2,249,600. Days to sell ranged from 13 to 819. 5 listings expired,  9 were cancelled.

20 prices were reduced over the last week.

Scroll down for our market recap for Vernon, Armstrong, and Coldstream real estate activity in the last 7 days.

$169,900.

Low Sale

62

New Listings

$2,249,600.

High Sale

28

Listings Sold

JUST LISTED

 

 

COMING SOON

 

 

ICYMI...

WHAT'S HAPPENING?


       

What's Happening In & Around Vernon

ALL ABOUT THE STATS

📊 𝗝𝗮𝗻𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗲𝘁 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝘀 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗜𝗻! 📊 


The latest numbers from the Association of Interior Realtors show a 5% increase in home prices YoY, with home sales on the rise and inventory up across the North Okanagan. 🏡


🔑 𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙙𝙤𝙚𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙢𝙚𝙖𝙣 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙔𝙊𝙐, 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙝𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙗𝙪𝙮𝙚𝙧? 

While the market is moving, here are some tips to navigate this changing landscape:

1️⃣ Get pre-approved – in a competitive market, having your financing ready to go can give you an edge.

2️⃣ Work with a local expert – our team knows the ins and outs of the North Okanagan market and can help you find the best opportunities.

3️⃣ Stay flexible – with more inventory available, you’ll have a wider range of options, but be ready to act quickly when the right property comes along.

4️⃣ Think long-term – a 5% increase in home prices is a sign of strong market growth. This could be a great time to invest in a property that will continue to appreciate over time.


If you’re thinking of buying, now’s is a great time to get your questions answered. Let’s chat about how we can help you make the most of any market! 💬

 

MAKING TRACKS

 

WEEKLY REAL ESTATE REPORT


Armstrong BC Real Estate Recap

A look at Armstrong Spallumcheen Market Activity for the last 7 days.

New Listings  Just Sold  Active Listings

8

New Listings

2

Listings Sold

0

Price Up

1

Price Down

Vernon BC Real Estate Recap

A look at the Vernon market activity in the  last 7 days

New Listings  Just Sold  Active Listings

49

New Listings

17

Listings Sold

0

Price Up

11

Price Down

Coldstream BC Real Estate Recap

A look at Coldstream market activity over the  last 7 days

New Listings  Just Sold  Active Listings

5

New Listings

2

Listings Sold

0

Price Up

3

Price Down

Whether a purchase or sale is in the future (near or far) or you just want to know what's going in real estate anywhere in the Okanagan Shuswap, we'd love to hear from you.

Terms of Use

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