All Blog Entries by Dave Kotler

Want to build a boat dock for your Kelowna waterfront property? Hold on a minute—there's more to it than just grabbing some lumber and getting started. In British Columbia, you’ll need to understand both the construction process AND the special rules that apply to lakefront properties.

This guide outlines the essential steps to building a sturdy, legal dock that will maximize the value of your waterfront home and the lifestyle you can live there. 

For informational purposes only. Always consult with local regulatory authorities for dock-related questions about your specific property.

Dock Building Tips for Kelowna Property Owners

• Get permission first! In BC, you need approval to build a dock (the foreshore is Crown land)
• Choose the

Are you standing on your lakefront property, trying to figure out what structure to build? Deciding between a pier, a dock, or something else entirely can be a difficult task. 

In simple terms, docks are mainly for parking boats, while piers extend over water for walking, fishing, and enjoying the view. But there's much more to it. These terms get mixed up because different regions use different words for the same structures.

Let's clear things up so you can make the right choice for your lake house’s backyard. The right structure makes lakefront living better every day you're there.

Dock or Pier? Key Facts at a Glance

• Dock vs. Pier Purpose: Docks are best for parking and accessing boats, while piers are ideal for walking, fishing, and

Riparian rights are essential legal entitlements that you need to know about before buying a lakefront home. The laws determine what owners can do with their shoreline, including building docks, accessing water, and limiting others' use of the water directly bordering their property.

That dream of waking up to sparkling Okanagan Lake views might have you ready to buy a waterfront property as soon as possible. But hold on! Take some time to understand British Columbia’s riparian rights so you know exactly what is and isn’t yours when you buy.

6 Things to Know About Riparian Rights in BC

• You don’t own the water or lakebed—the government does
• Building into the lake requires special permission
• Natural shoreline changes can affect your

Own a lakeside vacation home or short-term rental with canoes or kayaks for your guests? These lake house must-haves are huge draws, but you'll need a storage plan that works for long periods when you're away and keeps your equipment safe between guest visits. Winter storage is key for houses in colder climates, such as British Columbia.

This guide shows you exactly how to keep your canoes in great shape at your vacation property, whether they sit unused for months or are frequently used by rental guests. These practical tips will help you protect your investment and keep your water amenities ready for action.

How to Store Canoes & Kayaks: Quick Tips

• Proper canoe and kayak storage between guest stays can dramatically extend the life of your

Welcome to our exploration of the Central Okanagan real estate market! From Kelowna up to Lake Country and down through Peachland, this region is known for its wineries and beautiful outdoor activities. It's no wonder why so many people love to live here. Whether you want to join them or are simply curious, here's a breakdown of the market in April 2025.

We cover everything from median prices to inventory and sales for a range of property types. Primarily, these statistics cover residential properties and condos, but we also explore townhouses, lots, and mobile homes.

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

Central Okanagan Real Estate

Many people buy a luxury waterfront home for its location, so it's essential to make the outdoors as accessible and enjoyable as possible. Depending on location and access to amenities, there are a few key changes many property owners can make to see a marked improvement in their space and usage options. Keep reading for a closer look at a few lake house backyard ideas and design tips.

Landscaping & Design Ideas For Your Lake House

• Prioritize landscaping and layout by enhancing natural beauty with gardens, trees, and stone paths, while considering low-maintenance options like ground covers and drip irrigation.
• Maximize the view and relaxation with outdoor seating areas such as patios, gazebos, pergolas, and lounges—using weather-resistant,

Found out the previous owner did some home renovations without a permit? Don't panic. This happens more than you might think, but it's still something you need to address.

Unpermitted work isn't just about missing paperwork. It affects your home's safety, value, and can cause major headaches when you're ready to sell. Let's look at what you should do if you discover work done without a permit.

What Does Unpermitted Work Mean For New Homeowners?

Finding work done without a permit by the previous owner creates several challenges for homeowners:

• Your property might not be as safe as you thought
• You could face fines from your local city building department
• Your home insurance might not cover damages in areas built without a permit

Boat storage isn't just another expense you need to factor in—it's key to the long-term ownership experience. The right boat storage setup can prevent unnecessary wear and tear on the boat. Depending on your location, a popular storage option may be all wrong—especially for your wallet.

If you're storing a boat on the coast of British Columbia, salt water and air could be your main concerns. If you're in the lake-rich Okanagan Valley region, weather protection might be the top priority. Storing a boat in a big city? Security could top the list.

The truth is, there's no one-size-fits-all answer to boat storage. Your best option depends on how often you use your boat, your budget, and where you live.

Quick Boat Storage Tips

• Check your boat

A cold ice cream cone hits different on a warm Kelowna day. Whether you're walking by the lake, checking out downtown shops, or need something sweet after visiting Kelowna’s world-class wineries, this Okanagan city has amazing ice cream spots waiting for you.

Need to know where to get the best ice cream in town? Here's your guide to the top spots for your next ice cream craving.

Tips for Your Kelowna Ice Cream Hunt

• Amore Mio makes real Italian gelato with local ingredients—try their outdoor seating
• Moo-Lix has the best salted caramel brownie and vegan options, too
• Parlour Ice Cream serves birthday cake flavour in fresh waffle cones
• La Diperie lets you customize with tons of dip flavours and toppings
• Marble Slab hand-churns its

Myra Canyon is one of the best places to hike near Kelowna, BC—but it’s so much more. The Myra Canyon Trail, also known as the Myra Canyon Trestles for its distinctive trestle bridges, follows the path of the historic Kettle Valley Railway.

Though trains haven’t run on this line since the late 1980s, its transformation into one of British Columbia’s most popular outdoor attractions has made it more popular than ever. 

With amazing views and cool sights, Myra Canyon feels like stepping back in time. Dive in and prepare for your epic adventure on the Myra Canyon Trail!

Tips for Your Myra Canyon Adventure

• Drive about 25 km southeast of Kelowna to reach Myra Canyon
• Get there early—parking spots at Myra and Ruth Stations fill up fast