Climate Change Concerns & How They Affect Properties in Kelowna

Climate change is fast becoming a factor in some people’s decisions to purchase real estate. Some residents of places like Kelowna might see this as good news to keep the population low in our city. However, if you’re a seller what should you do to convince buyers not to worry? In some cases, the fear of climate events is keeping the market cool for the locals. Homeowners who have experienced the damage of these weather conditions can be slightly skeptical about buying properties in Kelowna.

For more information on how the weather can impact the local real estate market and what you can do as a seller, continue reading below.

Are Buyers Being Cautious to Purchase Properties in Kelowna Because of the Climate?

Kelowna is no stranger to wildfires and high heat. All that Kelowna sunshine can also make it deadly hot especially as temperatures continue to increase around the globe due to global warming.  However, these concerns are very slowly starting to creep into the housing market. Forest fires, floods, and extreme temperatures have wreaked havoc over the majority of B.C. in recent years.  Homebuyers are now coming forth with their concerns about purchasing properties in the affected areas. 57% of Canadians say that climate change is now a factor in where they will buy a home and are worried about future weather events. However, over 60% still agree that owning real estate is the best option for a long-term investment. 

Real estate agents must now help educate homeowners on how to identify climate risks on their property. Educating homeowners about climate change prevention and how to make their homes safer is a top priority. In fact, it’s now becoming important for real estate agents to lend advice on this topic. Climate change education is important to ensure that homeowners make informed decisions when it comes to climate concerns and their properties.

A few things we can encourage sellers to do:

• ensure that your landscaping is designed to be Firewise – reach out to your local fire department for a guide on how to do this!
• ensure that your home is prepared in case of flooding
• make your home sustainable with the addition of a green roof, solar panels, rain collection barrels
• switch your appliances to be energy efficient
• include a backup power supply

The interior of B.C is predicting more heat waves in the future. Weather like this makes it all the more important to practice fire-safe, climate-friendly habits in your home. It is so important to make sure that your home is protected as best you can from wildfire risks.

If you are interested in learning more about how to find a home that is disaster proof, then contact us today. We would be happy to help you find a home that is as safe as possible from climate risks.  If you need advice on how to sell your home in a high-risk area then please get in touch with our team today!

We look forward to working with you soon!