🛠️ From Fixer-Uppers to Move-In Ready: Why Today’s Buyers Want Turnkey Homes
The Okanagan real estate market—like much of Canada—is seeing a notable shift in buyer preferences, and one trend has become crystal clear: turnkey homes are in.
Gone are the days when buyers were excited to tackle a major renovation. The appeal of rolling up their sleeves and transforming a property has faded for many, especially in today’s economic climate. Instead, buyers are increasingly searching for homes that are updated, well-maintained, and move-in ready—and they’re willing to pay a premium for the peace of mind.
💸 The Cost of Renovation Has Skyrocketed
A key reason for this shift? Rising renovation costs.
Between inflation, supply chain disruptions, and ongoing labour shortages, the cost of even a modest kitchen or bathroom reno has ballooned. What used to be a manageable DIY project can now run tens of thousands of dollars—and take months to complete.
In Kelowna, West Kelowna, and surrounding communities, finding reliable contractors and tradespeople has become increasingly competitive. Wait times are longer, materials are more expensive, and many buyers—especially first-timers—don’t want to take the risk.
🧠 Emotional Simplicity in a Complex Market
In addition to financial concerns, today’s buyers are navigating an emotionally complex market. After years of market fluctuations, interest rate hikes, and uncertainty, many are looking for simplicity and stability.
A turnkey home represents exactly that:
No unexpected surprises behind the walls
No permits, inspections, or construction timelines
No stress about budgets spiraling out of control
Buyers can focus on the excitement of moving in—not the headache of tearing down.
👪 Millennials & Gen Z Lead the Trend
Millennials, now a dominant force in the real estate market, and the rising Gen Z buyers are fueling this trend. With demanding careers, growing families, and a strong focus on work-life balance, this group is prioritizing function, lifestyle, and time savings over sweat equity.
They’re looking for homes that are already aligned with their tastes—updated kitchens, energy-efficient windows, modern layouts—and are increasingly influenced by social media and home design trends.
💡 What This Means for Sellers
If you're thinking about selling your home, consider this a gentle nudge:
The better condition your home is in, the faster—and likely higher—it will sell.
While full renovations may not be necessary, strategic updates like fresh paint, updated lighting, or a modernized bathroom can make a significant impact. Even simple staging or a pre-listing inspection can help your property stand out as a turnkey contender.
🏡 Final Thoughts
Turnkey homes are no longer just a luxury—they're the new standard. As buyers seek certainty in an uncertain world, move-in ready homes offer exactly what today’s market demands: comfort, confidence, and convenience.
Thinking about buying or selling in the Okanagan? Let’s chat about how you can position your property—or your next purchase—for success in today’s market.
📲 Contact Me to get started.