6 Tips for Buying Kelowna Luxury Real Estate on the Water

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couple sitting on chars by the water

When searching the Kelowna luxury real estate market for waterfront properties, it’s important to choose one that reflects your lifestyle preferences.

Photo credit: TourismKelowna.com

You can already imagine laying on your private beach, sipping an ice-cold beverage while enjoying a great book, the waves lazily lapping at the Okanagan Lake shoreline. Kelowna luxury real estate can have that effect on people who are searching the market for the perfect slice of waterfront heaven.

But before you dive in headfirst, several considerations play a part in selecting the lakefront property that’s right for you. Some might be obvious, but others could easily be overlooked during your property search. Keeping these pointers in mind will simplify the process and help you find an Okanagan waterfront property you’ll enjoy for years.

1. Beach Access

Just because you’re buying waterfront property doesn’t mean you can expect to find a nice sandy beach. The shoreline along Okanagan Lake can vary greatly, and sometimes there’s no accessible shoreline at all (for example, cliffs).

2. Lake Access

Similar to your beach, you should also investigate the access to the water in front of your property. Questions you should ask yourself include:

  • Does the water depth gradually increase, or is there a quick dropoff?
  • Is it rocky or silty underfoot?
  • Deep enough to park a boat?
  • Is there room for a dock?

3. Views and Exposure for Luxury Real Estate

The vast majority of waterfront properties on the Kelowna luxury real estate market have stunning vistas. Okanagan Lake is huge, so chances are you’re not going to notice what’s on the opposite shore.

A more important consideration is the exposure of your property. Are you going to be in full sun for the entire day? If so, are there trees or pergolas to provide shade?

4. Lifestyle

It’s important to ask yourself how you intend to spend your time on the property. The type of property you choose should reflect the types of activities you enjoy:

  • Swimming
  • Boating
  • Fishing
  • Towed water sports
  • Beach parties and entertaining
  • Relaxing

5. Lot Access

Waterfront terrain typically slopes down towards the shoreline, with the level of steepness varying from property to property. Finding one on a level lot with reasonable access—one that doesn’t require elaborate maneuvering while driving—will save you a lot of hassle every time you come down the driveway.

6. Privacy

If you’re buying Kelowna luxury real estate, solitude is probably on your list of priorities. You certainly don’t want to be surrounded by noise, either from a constant stream of traffic along the roadway or by your boisterous neighbors.

If you’re buying a summer home in the Okanagan, you want to be able to detach from the hustle and bustle of your everyday life. The last thing you want is to buy property next to the local marina or a campsite.

Once you’ve chosen your waterfront property, be sure to read our post Ask a Kelowna Realtor: Tips for a Hassle-free Move into Your New Luxury Home.

There are plenty of waterfront properties available on the Kelowna luxury real estate market. To find the one that’s right for you, come and talk to the experts, we can help you refine your search to find a home that suits your lifestyle and budget.