Why are people choosing Kelowna?

Photo: Contributed - Stone Sisters

We were out showing homes yesterday to a family moving here from overseas. They have two young children and are moving to Kelowna for the lifestyle. They want to raise their family in a safe community, yet give their children access to cultural and sporting activities that may not be available in smaller communities.  They like the fact that Kelowna has an international airport, as he will be travelling quite a bit with work.  Having a university here in Kelowna (UBCO) - especially one with such a well-respected reputation - was another bonus. 

But they are most excited about the quality of life that Kelowna will give them.  They are looking forward to enjoying Okanagan Lake this summer and Big White ski resort this winter.  They are impressed with the quality of our public and private schools.  They love the beauty of the Okanagan and the friendliness of the people here.  

This family was able to choose anywhere in the country to live - and they have chosen Kelowna!  This makes us proud to be from this beautiful area, and to be able to share the wonder of our community with people moving here.

When someone is only visiting Kelowna for a short period of time, it can be stressful making a major decision - such as which neighbourhood to choose.  We first got together with them to find out what their needs, wants and preferences were.  We asked questions like what activities the children will be involved in (dance, hockey, swimming?) and if they want a view of the lake, or room to kick the soccer ball around in the back yard after dinner.

We then gave them a good map, with highlighted areas and got them to drive all over Kelowna.  We suggested they stop for lunch and talk to the staff about what they love about living in Kelowna.  We even suggested that they take a quick stroll through the neighbourhood grocery stores. 

All of this helps people get a sense of what Kelowna has to offer and which area will be the best fit for them and their family's needs.

They'll call us tonight with a list of homes they want to see and a few of their favourite neighbourhoods.  And tomorrow we'll begin the hunt in earnest.

Tamara Stone Personal Real estate corp.
REMAX Kelowna

This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.