Kelowna Waterfront home

A Kelowna Waterfront home: Now and then

The shores of Lake Okanagan have certainly changed over the years.  Those small cabins that once lined the lakefront, are now few and far between.  These prime waterfront lots are now home to spectacular, luxurious Kelowna waterfront homes.

Back in the early 1970’s Kelowna was the place for a beach vacation.  Laid back and perfect for a summer in the sun. Most of the Kelowna waterfront homes were small cabins and beach houses, very different from the luxury properties that line the shores today.

Let’s take a look at  one Kelowna Waterfront home: Then and now.

The CEO of QVA, Quincy Vrecko, is a leading waterfront real estate specialist in Kelowna and will compare what this Kelowna Waterfront home used to be and what it is now.

Let’s start with then:

 4084 Lake shore cabin Kelowna Waterfront home

 

 

Sale Price:  $1 470 000

House: 1000sq.ft beach home built in the 1940’s

 

 

I sold this home to the current owners back in 2014.  A hard working couple from Calgary looking to get into the real estate market in Kelowna and secure a Kelowna Waterfront home for their future retirement.

The home was a small waterfront cabin built in the 1940’s.  Quaint and cute, the home was only 1000 sq.ft with 2 bedrooms, one bathroom.  

What attracted them to the property, was the lot and location.  The lot was 62ft of waterfront and offered amazing beach and deep water for moorage.  This is where they would eventually build their dream home.

After enjoying this little cabin on the Lake for 2 years, they eventually brought it down and started to build their dream home.  

Fast forward to now:

4084 Lakeshore Kelowna Waterfront home

 

 

Estimated Price:  $6 500 000

House: 6000sq.ft luxury home with high end finishings, 3 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, one bedroom suite

 

 

 

Now that .20 acre lot is home to a spectacular luxury Kelowna waterfront home.  Built by James Debruin from Debruin fine homes. This luxury estate boasts, 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, guest quarters, media room, wine room, inground pool and lush private patios just to name a few.

Out on the shores of Lake Okanagan, this Kelowna waterfront home has a beautiful dock with electric boat life to complete the perfect Okanagan lifestyle.  

Truly a masterpiece on the waterfront.  This Kelowna Waterfront home is enjoyed all year round by the newly retired couple who had a dream 5 years ago and has now made it a reality.

Quincy Vrecko Luxury Real Specialist

 

 

To find your piece of paradise on Kelowna’s waterfront, call Quincy Vrecko.  Quincy specializes in waterfront properties and luxury home

Quincy Vrecko

250-863-8810

[email protected]

Sensitive Santa 2018

Announcement:

The Sensitive Santa program will be running again this year at Orchard Park Mall.

Quincy and I are honored to bring back the Sensitive Santa visits.   With the help of Orchard Park Mall and Autism Okanagan, these precious Santa visits are treasured memories.  Sensitive Santa is a private one on one visit for children who have sensory sensitivities.  The hustle and bustle of the mall at Christmas time would normally overwhelm children on the specturm.  These visits make it possible for childen with Autism to enjoy this time honored event. 

Our 8 year old son Paxton has Autism.  It is difficult for him to enjoy a visit with Santa when there are crowds of people, bright lights and loud music.  Five years ago after a stressful attempt to visit Santa at the mall, we came up with idea of Sensitive Santa.Sensitive Santa-Quincy Vrecko real estate

The elements that would make a Santa visit a disaster for us, we now control with the help of Orchard Park Mall.  

Sensitive Santa visits are a success because we:

  • After hours-in order to ensure no large crowds
  • Each visit by appointment only- so every family doesn’t have to wait in line and has 5 minutes of privacy
  • Turn off the music and dim the lights- to ensure sensory sensitive environment

We controll the environment, therefore it has created priceless moments with families.   Before the Sensitive Santa program, these families have not been able to step foot in the mall.  Let alone to visit Santa at Christmas time.  

Autism Spectrum Disorder (known as ASD) is range of conditions. They are characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication.  In Canada, 1 in 68 children are currently diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.  This makes Autism the fastest growing and most commonly diagnosed neurological disorder in Canada.

Quincy and I hope to be able to bring more programs like Sensitive Santa to the Okanagan.  When I am not selling real estate, I am working with Autism Okanagan.  I am proud to be the acting president for the board of directors.  I am growing awareness in the community and increase activities for families living with a loved one on the Autism spectrum.

sensitive santa quincy and tracey vrecko

Dates for this year are December 2nd, December 9th and December 16th.

To register for Sensitive Santa visit http://sensitivesantaokanagan.ca/register/

Tracey Vrecko

 

 

Buying a Waterfront property in Kelowna

Considering buying a Waterfront property in Kelowna?

Start by calling talking to expert in Waterfront properties and Luxury homes in the Okanagan.  

The most important step in starting your search is to hire a luxury real estate agent.  This agent will have experience with this complex transaction.  Quincy Vrecko with RE/MAX Kelowna has been selling waterfront property in Kelowna for years.  He understands how complex this type of transaction can be.

quincy vrecko waterfront real estate agent

 

“There are so many important details when buying waterfront property in Kelowna”, says Quincy.  “I have extensive experience with buying and selling on the water. The rules and reulations are constantly changing with regards to waterfront properties and you need to know what questions to ask”

 

Some of these important factors could drastically change the use of the property or even the value.  Before diving into this large investment, the following factors should be considered and carefully examined.  As a waterfront specialist, Quincy can help protect your investment and bring some clarity when buying a waterfront property in Kelowna.

Things to consider

Waterfront:  When you are buying a waterfront property in Kelowna, you are buying the land  but you do not own the waterfront. There are very few properties in the Okanagan where the homeowner owns the foreshore right.  This means, you do not own the beach out in front of your home.


Docks:  If that waterfront home has a dock, the dock must have a specific permission or general permission. You must ensure it is compliant with the rules and regulations set out by the ministry. Different areas of Lake Okanagan have different requirements for dock construction.  This is based on the salmon spawning, depth of the water, protection of the foreshore and indigenous plants to name a few.  You will want to make sure your dock is a legal dock before your purchase.  

 

Building:  When buying a waterfront property in Kelowna and tearing down the current home, there are new setbacks that are now in place for new home construction on the waterfront.  Years ago, structures were allowed to be closer to the water but new guidelines are in place once that old cabin or beach house is taken down.

 

When looking into buying a waterfront property in Kelowna, it is important to hire a real estate agent who is experienced in selling waterfront properties.  Someone who is knowledgeable in the details of a waterfront sale.  

 

Quincy Vrecko of RE/MAX Kelowna is one of the top luxury real estate agents for waterfront sales in the Okanagan.  His extensive knowledge gives his clients the advantage when buying a waterfront property in Kelowna. Call Quincy before starting your waterfront search.  

Top 3 Kelowna Winery Visits this fall

Access to world renowned wineries and picturesque vineyards is one of the things that make Kelowna such a great place to live. The cooler weather and changing colours of fall make a trip out to a local Kelowna winery a pleasure this season. Here are our top three picks for a tasting trip to a Kelowna winery.

Tantalus

tantalus kelowna winery

Cheers to a Kelowna winery tasting

First planted in 1927 the Tantalus vineyard is the oldest continuously producing vineyard in British Columbia. Situated in picturesque East Kelowna they are open daily for tastings throughout the fall. Their sleek gallery style tasting facility is full of notable Canadian works of art, and the historic vineyards anchor beautiful lake views. This Kelowna winery focuses on small terrior driven lines of wine with a notable Riesling. Consistently award winning Tantalus is on the shortlist of Canada’s best Riesling producers. For the best tasting experience possible be sure to make reservations if you are plan to visit on the weekend.

The Hatch

Located on Boucherie Road and surrounded by some of the most notable names in Okanagan wine, this small quirky West Kelowna winery is well worth a visit. The Hatch creates wine from small producers all over the Okanagan Valley. The tasting room, referred to as their “rustic shack” is reminiscent of early days in the Napa Valley. Staffed by energetic, fun, and knowledgable individuals the tasting experience tells the story of local passionate growers with their delicious wine. Full of unique names and amusing wordplay their range of wines consistently collects awards. In fact, at just a year old The Hatch placed in the top 10 of all wineries in Canada. Grab a bottle of the 2015 Bacl Swift Pinecrest Chardonnay if you still can.

kelowna winery experience

It’s harvest season

50th Parallel

The experience at 50th Parallel has been perfectly orchestrated to create a world class wine destination. Surrounded by a stunning landscape and housed within an architectural masterpiece the tasting room at 2009 and the vineyard has expanded in stages ever since. The fantastic and award winning Pinot Noir is the only red produced at the vineyard in order to give it the technical attention it requires. The Block One restaurant at 50th Parallel opened its door in the spring of 2018 and serves regionally inspired cuisine in an impressive indoor and outdoor space. Try the truffle popcorn for a true indulgence. Reservations recommended, click here!

With the abundance of vineyards in the Okanagan Valley home near a Kelowna winery is an achievable dream. Quincy Vrecko and Associates is an experience team of Kelowna luxury real estate agents who have the skills to make the dream a reality. Contact them today at 778-760-2860!

Weekend Getaways from Kelowna

Thinking of getting out of Kelowna for a weekend?  The team at Quincy Vrecko and Associates share their 3 favourite weekend getaways.

Kelowna is a beautiful city full of stunning views, fantastic dining, and endless activities. That being said, sometimes you just need a relaxing weekend escape to recharge. If you’re ready to experience a new space here are our top three destinations for weekend getaways from Kelowna. Just a short drive or flight away!

Sparkling Hill Resort & Spa

weekend getaways from Kelowna

Get pampered at Sparkling Hill

A short drive north to Vernon takes you to the stunning property of Sparkling Hill. This one of a kind property is one of North America’s world-class health and wellness spas, considered an oasis for relaxation, pampering and healing. Guest rooms are filled with crystal accents and feature floor to ceiling windows as well as a crystal shaped two-person soaker tubs.

The Sparkling Hill spa boasts 7 themed steam rooms, indoor and outdoor pools, hydrotherapy and multiple areas for relaxation. After a full day or pampering you can refuel at the stunning Peak Fine Restaurant featuring farm to table dining with tasty menus that change seasonally. For an extra treat the sommelier will pair each course with the perfect local or international wine.

This is one of the weekend getaways that is close to home but will allow you to escape even just for a night.

The Douglas at Parq Vancouver

weekend getaways to vancouver from kelowna

Escape to Vancouver

Our weekend getaways take a little further west.  The Douglas hotel is located inside Parq Vancouver in downtown Vancouver’s entertainment district and perfect for a weekend getaway. The hotel features beautifully appointed rooms with lush linens and original artwork. Or splash out in luxury for one of three individually curated luxury bi-level suites with stunning views.

A short stroll through Parq Vancouver takes you to the Spa by JW and The Glamoury for some luxurious pampering. Spa treatments are custom tailored to Calm, Indulge, Invigorate and Renew. Or head to the Glamoury and treat yourself to a blow out.

Finally be sure to head up to the 6th floor rooftop and dine at The Victor a classic North American steak and local seafood experience. Sip expertly paired wine or premium cutting edge cocktails while looking out over False Creek.

Wickaninnish Inn

weekend getaways to tofino to kelowna

Long Beach Tofino

Finally, the last of the weekend getaways skip over to Vancouver Island.  Multiple daily flights with Pacific Coastal take you from YLW to Tofino through Vancouver. Tofino’s Wickaninnish Inn is one of the most favourite luxury weekend getaways for Tracey and Quincy Vrecko.  The “Wick” sits perched on the west coast of Vancouver Island and beautifully combines elegance and natural beauty. The spacious guest rooms feature ocean of beach views and are designed with attention to detail and a connection to nature.

Get pampered at the Ancient Cedars Spa and take a short drive to the Wolf in the Fog restaurant for an exquisite meal in stunning surroundings. The Wolf features a delicious menu inspired by the oceans, forests and shoreline of the local area. Try the oysters!

There you have it. If you are looking for a short but relaxing escape from Kelowna, these are our top three weekend getaways from Kelowna. Fabulous hotel rooms, luxurious spas and fabulous food combine for a perfect mini-vacation.

Autumn Golf Courses in Kelowna

Fall has arrived with changing leaves and brisk sunny days. This means that golf courses in Kelowna are getting ready to close down for the off-season. But you can still squeeze in plenty of rounds this month as most courses are open until late October. Here are our top recommendations for autumn golf courses in Kelowna.

Kelowna Springs Golf Club

For a day spent walking the links you cannot go wrong with Kelowna Springs for autumn golf courses in Kelowna. Known as a fantastic for walking this course was designed by renown architect Les Furber and features stunning waterways. Remarkably picturesque the course features views of the valley and distant vineyards. After your round visit Legends Classic grill and enjoy the autumn sun on one of two decks overlooking the course. Open until October 31st for you to squeeze in your final rounds.

Black Mountain Golf Club

Perched on the side of beautiful Black Mountain this par-71 championship course is suitable for all levels. With 4 choices for tee boxes even a novice will have a great day out at this premier of golf courses in Kelowna. Know for spectacular conditions regardless of the season Black Mountain Golf Club is one of the most scenic courses in Kelowna. Be sure to work up an appetite and visit The Grill after your round and choose from tasty choices ranging from nachos to Moroccan Lamb. Final rounds of the season will be played October 31st.

The Harvest Golf Club

Recently voted the “Best Golf Course in Kelowna” this course was carved out of a former orchard and features stunning lake views and numerous fruit trees. At 7,109 yards, The Harvest is a championship-length layout designed by renowned Canadian golf course architect Graham Cooke. Closing slightly earlier on October 26th you still have time for a few rounds on this stunning example of golf courses in Kelowna. Be sure to follow up with a meal featuring Okanagan flavours with a west coast flair at The Harvest Grille on site.

If you are looking to purchase a home close to amazing amenities such as these fantastic golf courses in Kelowna, it’s time to tee up a meeting with Quincy Vrecko and Associates. We are a dedicated team of professionals with years of experience ready to assist you in purchasing a Kelowna home. Contact one of our knowledgeable associates today, call 1-778-760-2860!

October Agenda – Events in Kelowna

If you can believe it October is just days away. Autumn in the Okanagan Valley is a beautiful place with lots of fun events to keep you busy. If you’re looking for October activity ideas you’re in the right place. Check out our three top ideas of events in Kelowna this October.

Sip & Carve at Buvez Wine Bar

autum events in kelowna

Pumpkin Carving & Wine at Buvez

These fun pumpkin carving events in Kelowna kick off on October 3rd and extend all  month long as long as the pumpkins last. The pumpkins are cleaned for you and the seeds roasted up tasty. Create your own festive pumpkin while sipping on some tasty wine, cocktails, or even vegan ‘Baileys’ and hot chocolate. The event is by reservation while supplies last so reserve early.

https://www.buvezwinebar.com/events-1/sip-carve-2

Fork & Spoon Gala – October 13th

charity events in kelowna

Fork & Spoon Gala on October 13th

9 Chefs, 9 Courses, 1 Warehouse. This inaugural event to benefit the Central Okanagan Food Bank brings together 9 of the top chefs in the valley to create a delectable multi-course tasting menu using only the ingredients available in the Food Bank warehouse. This one of a kind dining experience takes place in the new Central Okanagan Food Bank facility at 2310 Enterprise Way. A fantastic new tradition to add to fall events in Kelowna. To purchase tickets or provide sponsorship head to the Fork & Spoon Gala website https://trellis.org/campaign/The%20Fork%20and%20Spoon%20Gala/5b6c8496414d544161c1153d

Spooktacular Halloween Candy & Wine Pairing – October 27th & 28th

candy events in kelowna

Halloween Candy Pairings

Head on over to The View Winery and Vineyard in your spooky best costumes for this unique event. The third annual Spooktacular Halloween Pairing joins candy treats with delicious wines and ciders. Head out to South East Kelowna from 12-5pm each day to enjoy the fall flavours and maybe event win a gift for your fabulous costume.

Kelowna is full of great outdoor and indoor activities. There are endless events in Kelowna year round. Keep yourself going and entertained through this beautiful fall weather. Enjoy it while it is here as winter is not far from making an appearance.

If you are looking for Kelowna real estate within close proximity of fun activities indoor and outdoor, contact the team at Quincy Vrecko and Associates. Our team of professional Kelowna real estate agents is ready to assist you with your next Kelowna home purchase. Call 1-778-760-2860!

Kelowna Waterfront Sales 2018

Kelowna waterfront home sales are having a banner year. With stunning weather, beautiful views, and miles of lake shore it is no surprise that the Kelowna real estate market remains a hot one. Kelowna waterfront sales are up more than 50% over the same period over last year and show no sign of slowing down. We have rounded up three notable Kelowna waterfront sales from this year for your review.

Notable Sales :

 

quincy vrecko kelowna waterfront

320 Poplar Point Drive – Recently sold by Quincy Vrecko

320 Poplar Point Drive – $5,050,000

This spectacular Kelowna waterfront estate has over 100ft of shoreline with a large licensed dock and lift. The home is nearly 5000 sqft with 4 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms. The living spaces boasts 16ft vaulted ceilings and walls of glass to capture the panoramic views. Outdoor living space is abundant with a private deck off the master suite as well as a large cantilevered deck off the living space.

abbott kelowna waterfront quincy vrecko

1986 Abbott Street. Recently listed with RE/MAX Kelowna

1986 Abbott Street – $5,745,000

In the popular Abbott Street Corridor this Kelowna waterfront home provides a 4 bedroom and 5 bathroom main home as well as a 1 bedroom carriage house. Sitting on a level 0.6 acre lakefront lot in Kelowna South the property offers clean modern styling, a home gym, wine cellar, large master suite, and gourmet kitchen. Iron gates ensure privacy and security.

Swick kelowna waterfront quincy vrecko

165 Swick Road. Recently listed with Coldwell Banker Horizon Realty

165 Swick Road – $6,802,300

This 10,000 sqft home sits on nearly 2 acres of Kelowna waterfront in the Upper Mission. It boasts 5 generous sized bedrooms including a palatial master suite with private balcony overlooking the lake. High end features include the heated 10 car garage, home theatre, wine cellar, and butler’s pantry. Outdoors enjoy the extensive grounds, large dock, private lagoon, waterfalls, and salt water pool.

 

Kelowna waterfront homes are a specialty of the realtors with Quincy Vrecko and Associates. Be sure to call Quincy at 250-863-8810 before you start you search for the perfect lakeside luxury home and have a look through our waterfront listings to see what is currently available.

How to Create Privacy for Your Kelowna Downtown Condo

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If you live in a Kelowna downtown condo, you know what we mean when we say that privacy is minimal! If you are living in a Kelowna downtown condo and you are looking to create some privacy, you’ve come to the right place! Check out our three tips on how to create privacy for your Kelowna downtown condo!

Add bookshelves

Kelowna downtown condo with bookshelf in living room

Add a bookshelf

If you are looking to add some privacy to your Kelowna downtown condo, one way to do it is to add bookshelves! Carefully stage the bookshelf so that it doesn’t make your small Kelowna downtown condo look crowded! Adding a bookshelf to your Kelowna downtown condo, will not only add that extra bit of decor but will also separate rooms and add that privacy you are longing for.

Take advantage of privacy screens

Another easy way to add privacy to your Kelowna downtown condo is to add privacy screens. These screens are easy to use and can easily block off a section of your Kelowna downtown condo! Tick off “add privacy” on your to-do list with ease! Voila, a simple task and you’ve got the privacy you have been waiting for! 

large green plant in Kelowna downtown condo

Add greenery to your condo

Tall plants

A modern approach to adding some privacy to your Kelowna condo is by adding tall plants. Adding tall and green plants is a great way to add privacy and every home needs a bit of nature! There are plenty of great large plants to purchase, a few of our favorites are aloe Vera, palm, and rubber trees. These great plants are easy to maintain and great to add to your downtown Kelowna condo.

If you are looking for a Kelowna condo, contact the team at Quincy Vrecko and Associates. Our team of dedicated real estate agents can help you find exactly what you are looking for. We have helped many Kelowna home buyers purchase real estate in Kelowna and we can help you too! All you have to do is pick up the phone, and leave the rest to us! Call 1-778-760-2860 today!

September Agenda : What to do in Kelowna

Our long smoky Kelowna summer is coming to an end, and with that comes the excitement of back to school as well as some fabulous fun September events. We’ve taken a look at all that September in Kelowna has to offer and chosen a few highlights.

Denim on the Diamond

It’s concert time in Kelowna!

On September 1st Kings Stadium will be transformed from a historic ball diamond into the perfect all day party location. Denim on the Diamond will showcase some of the Okanagan’s best local businesses and artists. Food and drinks available from BNA, Kitsch Wines, Surfside & Dunnenzies while performances by Chad Brownlee, JoJo Mason, Devon Coyote and others will take place with stunning Knox Mountain Kelowna as the backdrop. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and claim your spot early.  Tickets available here.

 

Kelowna Nerd Olympics

City Park will play host to the Nerd Olympics on Saturday September 8th from 9am to 3pm. The Nerd Olympics is an annual event hosted by Kelowna tech company Data Nerds. The third annual event brings together teams from local companies to compete in games such as Zorb Soccer, Human Hungry Hippo and Foot Darts. While costumes are not mandatory teams receive points for creativity. Registration is now closed but you can come on down to City Park and witness all the fun.

Motionball Marathon of Sport

Motionball is a day of fun games!

The annual Motionball Marathon of Sport in support of the Special Olympic Canada Foundation takes place on September 22nd in City Park. The event is a fun-filled day of athletic competition where teams pair up with Special Olympics of British Columbia athletes and compete in a variety of sports and activities. Motionball has donated over $10 million to the Special Olympic Canada Foundation since its inception.

 

Theses are just a sample of all the great activities happening around town this month. The downtown Kelowna neighbourhood is busy, fun, and booming. Perhaps you’d like to live within walking distance of all the fun? Check out our neighbourhood guide and then contact the team at Quincy Vrecko and Associates. Our team of knowledgeable real estate agents would be happy to help you find a downtown Kelowna home! Call us at 1-778-760-2860!