July 2025

Trying to decide what to do with your rental property? You're probably wondering which option can put more money in your pocket—renting long-term to the same tenant or going short-term with a slew of vacation rentals. It's a big decision that affects your income, time, and stress levels.

Many property owners face this exact choice. You have a house, condo, or apartment that could generate income either way. But the wrong choice might mean leaving thousands of dollars on the table or creating a management nightmare.

Real estate investors especially need to understand how long-term renting offers different benefits and challenges from vacation rentals.

Quick Takeaways: Long-Term Rental vs. Short-Term Rental

• Short-term rentals can earn 2–3x

Buying a house in Kelowna can cost more than most people think. In fact, the down payment rules across Okanagan Valley cities, British Columbia, and all of Canada can catch you off guard. 

For homes under $500,000, you need at least 5% down. But for more expensive houses, the rules change in ways that might catch you off guard. Here's what to know about down payment amounts in British Columbia.

For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed mortgage or home loan professional before proceeding with any real estate transaction.

Kelowna & BC Down Payment Tips

• New rules for insured mortgages make buying slightly easier in BC
• Homes under $500,000 in BC need a 5% down payment
• For houses priced $500,000–$1.5 million, you

Kelowna is one of the best places to live for people who want a city where every day can feel like a vacation. The gorgeous lake, the year-round outdoor fun, and the milder Canadian climate all make Kelowna one of the best cities in the Okanagan Valley.

The city offers stunning lake views, 2,000+ hours of yearly sunshine, world-class wineries, and a wide variety of real estate options. However, high housing costs, seasonal tourism crowds, and a limited job market present real challenges.

Here's your no-nonsense guide to help you decide if moving to Kelowna is right for YOUR specific situation.

10 Reasons Kelowna is a Good Place to Live

1. Sunshine-filled climate: 2,000+ hours of sunshine yearly, with hot summers and mild winters compared to

If you’re considering renting your Kelowna property on Airbnb, the rules changed in 2025, and getting it wrong could cost you.

The City of Kelowna updated its short-term rental (STR) regulations to match new provincial legislation from British Columbia. These changes affect anyone wanting to rent out their home (or part of it) for less than 90 days.

You already know about Canada’s tax rules for short-term rentals, but it’s vital to comply with Kelowna’s new rules to make your STR legal. We'll cover everything from the principal residence requirement to safety rules and licensing steps.

Whether you're just starting out or need to update your existing rental, follow these rules to avoid hefty fines and keep your rental business running

If you’re buying a home in British Columbia, don't forget about the Property Transfer Tax. This tax catches many buyers by surprise and can add thousands to your costs. Knowing how it works—and who gets a break on paying it—helps you avoid budget shocks on closing day.

For informational purposes only. Always consult with an attorney, tax, or financial advisor before proceeding with any real estate transaction.

BC Property Transfer Tax at a Glance

• British Columbia charges a transfer tax when you buy property: 1% on the first $200,000, and then rates increase as property value goes up.
• First-time homebuyers don't pay tax on homes under $835,000 (as of April 2024).
• New homes under $1,100,000 are tax-exempt (as of April 2024).
• Foreign