NICOLA VALLEY
IN THE ISSUE
REAL ESTATE REVIEW Everything you need to know about real estate in the Nicola Valley.
LISTINGS
BUYING & SELLING TIPS
LOCAL EXPERTS
How to buy a home you can afford When is the right time to sell a home? Did you know
SEPT. EDITION
How to buy a home you can afford Riding the ups and downs of the financial market is challenging, particularly as it pertains to figuring out the right time to buy a home. After years of volatility, recent data indicates that the housing market might have hit an affordability ceiling, creating a much-needed period of rebalancing. Although prices remain high, the bidding wars and back-office tactics that may have
dominated past years have cooled considerably. This means buyers may have a wider window in which to purchase a home that is more affordable, states Cotality, a data analytic service. Those looking to buy now can explore options to ensure their next home does not bust their budget. Know the numbers The first step to buying a home is understanding the
median home price. According to data from Realtor.com and Redfin, the national median home price has stabilized at $429,156 in the United States. At the same time, mortgage rates have eased. CREA Statistics says the national average home price in Canada was $663,828 in March 2026. The average 30-year fixed rate is now around 6.0 to 6.3 percent as of April 2026. For the first time since 2022,
the typical mortgage payment has fallen below the 30 percent affordability threshold. Rocket Mortgage says this is a standard guideline suggesting households spend no more than 30 percent of their gross monthly income on housing expenses. Sit down with a lender By working with a lender to run numbers, potential buyers can get a clear picture of what they can afford. Plus,
a mortgage preapproval may be a necessity when putting in an offer on a property. Lenders often lean heavily on the 28/36 rule to determine risk. This means that total monthly housing costs (principal, interest, taxes, and insurance) should not exceed 28 percent of a person’s gross monthly income, advises PNC Bank. Total debt payments, including that new mortgage, car loans, and
Buyers can have a construction costs for real estate agent sort immediate needs. Look for under- listings by how many days homes have been valued areas student debt, should on the market. Many areas of the remain under 36 country have featured According to Mortgage percent. recent corrections in Research, homes Account for sitting on the market the housing market, hidden costs making housing more for more than 60 days Buyers may be are prime candidates affordable. inspired to widen for price cuts. Those Corrections have their search criteria occurred in parts of homeowners also may to find an affordable Florida, San Francisco, be more inclined to home. That could negotiate. and Los Angeles, translate into Buying a home that among other locales. choosing an older is affordable requires Buyers can target home or one that diligence on the part these areas and requires more of potential homeconsider widening repairs and their search radius, owners, who can upgrades. It’s especially if they work consider the market important that a remotely and need not and their finances and budget include worry about tweak search maintenance commuting. parameters to get the reserves for annual Target “old” best deals. repairs, as well as listings TF266922
ARE YOU A REALTOR®, MORTGAGE SPECIALIST, HOME BUILDER, OR HOME SERVICES PROFESSIONAL? Showcase your business in the Nicola Valley Real Estate Review, published in the first Thursday edition of the Merritt Herald each month. 24 | THURSDAY, Sept. 3, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
When is the right time to sell a home? Identifying the optimal time to sell a home involves careful consideration of seasonal trends, market conditions and shifting economic indicators. Home equity represents the largest component of personal wealth for most households, and miscalculating the market by even a few days or weeks can result in a substantial financial loss. Although there is no perfect moment to sell a home, the National Association of Realtors indicates data-driven insights can help maximize profits and minimize stress. The following are some factors that can determine the most advantageous time to sell a home. • The seasons are a strong influencer. According to a Realtor.com analysis of trends from 2018 to 2025, spring consistently is the strongest period for sellers. Mid-spring is a popular time to list a home because it brings higher buyer demand and lower competition. • The school year matters. Families looking to move will want to get into their new homes before the school year starts. The summer is a peak time for home sales, particularly when buyers can close on properties and move in before the kids start classes. The NAR says homes sell fastest in spring and summer, often in 31 to 35 days,
with sales rising through June. • Timing is localized, too. Some markets do not follow the typical seasonal trajectory. For example, home sales in San Jose, Calif., peak during the first two weeks of February, according to Zillow. The Silicon Valley market and surrounding areas feature chronically low inventory, so this early selling window allows sellers to capture highly motivated buyers. Other markets around the country challenge conventional wisdom as well, and relying on a knowledgeable real estate profession can help sellers list at the best time in their markets. • Financial and market factors play roles. Market conditions will often matter more than the calendar when it comes to the real estate market. The NAR forecasted a 14 percent increase in existing home sales for 2026 due mortgage rate stabilization and an increase in inventory. Sellers benefit most when inventory is tight and buyer demand is solid. Zillow says 78 percent of sellers cite major changes like job relocation, family size shifts or lifestyle needs as driving decisions to move and buy. Ultimately the right time to sell a home is when personal needs coordinate with reasonable market strength. Analysis of local data and reliance on local professionals can help homeowners sell on their terms.
Did you know? The market research experts at Business Research Insights report that the threeseason sunroom market size is projected to nearly double between 2025 and 2035. BRI reports that 65 percent of homeowners prefer cost-effective sunrooms when seeking to extend their living space. The popularity of sunrooms can be traced to a number of variables, including year-round access to a home’s surrounding landscape. That access
might be hindered if the only spaces to experience nature is a patio, deck or another traditional type of outdoor living space. But sunrooms, particularly those equipped with heating and cooling, can bring homeowners in touch with nature during times of year when they might otherwise be compelled to steer clear of their outdoor living spaces due to less welcoming weather.
Nicola Lakeshore Estates OWN YOUR OWN PIECE OF NICOLA LAKE
LAKEFRONT & LAKEVIEW LOTS
Start Building Your
Dream
FULLY SERVICED LOTS Ready for your dream home 3 HOURS FROM VANCOUVER Close enough to escape, far enough to relax HOT SUMMERS • MILD WINTERS Enjoy it in every season YEAR-ROUND RECREATION Boating, fishing, hiking, golfing & more
LIMITED TIME 477 ACRES OF NATURAL BEAUTY BUYER INCENTIVES Spacious, private, breathtaking BOOK YOUR VIEWING TODAY Brad Yakimchuk
- Personal Real Estate Corporation
CEN TURY 21 250-315-3043 cell / 250-378-6166 office Moving Real Estate BC LTD.
250-378-4344 fax / 1-877-841-2100 THINKING OF
SELLING OR BUYING A
HOME?
NAVIGATE THE MARKET WITH A REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL.
BREANNA OUELLET 13-1717 GRANITE AVENUE
MLS#10377442
Move-in ready 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom 55+ strata townhouse, ideally located within walking distance to downtown Merritt and amenities. The main floor features two bedrooms, including a primary with walk-in closet and ensuite, spacious living room with gas fireplace and sun deck, dining area, kitchen with breakfast nook, laundry and full bath. The basement offers a third bedroom, bathroom, large family/rec room, ample storage and backyard access overlooking the river. Extras include a chair lift, new carpets, fresh paint, appliances, fenced front yard, carport and additional parking stall.
BREANNA OUELLET
Cell: 250-315-5820 email: Breanna.ouellet@remax.net #1 - 2114 Nicola Avenue, Merritt RE/MAX Legacy. Each office is independent owned and operated.
$324,900
www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, Sept. 3, 2026 | 23
Local People
Bailee Allen
CANADA FLEX REALTY GROUP LTD
YOU CAN TRUST
Real Estate Representative
®
250-315-9648
F U L L S E RV I C E • F L E X I B L E S O L U T I O N S
bailee@flexrealtygroup.ca
Daren Matity
Michelle Bacon
Real Estate Representative & Licensed Property Manager darren@flexrealtygroup.ca | 250-457-4499
Karen McGregor,
Real Estate Representative & Licensed Property Manager
Licensed Property Manager, karen@flexrealtygroup.ca | 250-253-1001 Don Gossoo, Associate Broker
250-315-9987
Nathan Matis,
michelle@flexrealtygroup.ca
Owner, Managing Broker nathan.matis@flexrealtygroup.ca | 250-859-9559
Contact us with any real estate or property management needs REDUCED
2463 IRVINE AVE
1502 COLDWATER AVE.
1801 HAMILTON AVE
2101 GILLIS CRES
1867 JUNIPER DRIVE
MLS®10384982
MLS®10392099
MLS ® 10396110
MLS®10398169
MLS®10391205
$699,500
$499,900
$559,000
$559,900
$725,000
LOGAN LAKE
2664 COUTLEE AVENUE
2613 COUTLEE AVE
2475 IRVINE AVENUE
12-1717 GRANITE AVE.
198 LEA RIG CRES.
MLS® 10397095
MLS®10398417
MLS®10397126
MLS®10397549
MLS®10396200
$310,000
$459,900
$459,000
$315,000
3325 BOYD ROAD
471 WOODWARD AVE
2225 HAZELHURST RD
2701 LANGSTAFF PL.
MLS®10396953
MLS®1039635
MLS®10397115
MLS®10388143
$634,000
$725,000
$1,324,900
$499,900
$1,049,900
2337 COUTLEE AVE MLS®10394976 $479,000
MORE GREAT PROPERTIES
25-1901 MAXWELL AVE
RECENTLY SOLD
2135 MERRITT AVENUE
2102 CLAPPERTON AVE.
MLS®10395408
MLS®10390830
MLS®10391280
1202 HOUSTON STREET 5, 2390 SEYOM CRESCENT 4492 IRON MOUNTAIN RD 2064 CASTILLOU CRES 2564 COUTLEE AVE 2275 CASTILLOU CRES MLS®10379514 $379,000
$349,000
$489,000
$479,900 3104 PANORAMA DRIVE MLS®10394323
$468,900
1799 ARMSTRONG ST.
2326 GARCIA STREET
2313 CLAPPERTON AVE
MLS® 10390106
MLS®10386826
MLS®10369875
$515,000
$699,900
Let us help you MAKE YOUR NEXT MOVE!
$423,000
2001C Voght Street
REDUCED
admin@flexrealtygroup.ca
www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, Sept. 3, 2026 | 21
LOCAL EXPERTISE. GENUINE CARE. RESULTS YOU CAN COUNT ON.
JENNIFER KIGHTLEY REAL ESTATE AGENT
250.315.3256 www.merrittrealtor.ca jenniferkightley@royallepage.ca
Merritt Real Estate Services Ltd
Personal Real Estate Corporation
2.7 Acres
The home features 3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom, providing a functional layout with plenty of possibilities. This charming rancher has great potential and is ready for its next owner to bring their renovation ideas and make it their own.
This spacious 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home is ready for a new owner to bring their vision to life. With plenty of room for a growing family and the added bonus of an in-law suite, this property offers endless possibilities for multi-generational living or additional living space
1888 Granite Ave $379,000
Custom 5 bed / 2.5 bath family home with a double garage on a half-acre lot. Beautiful yard with garden space, gas fire pit area, deck, and underground sprinklers. Ample parking including RV parking. Close to schools, shopping, and the hospital.
4150 Walters Street $1,150,000
Custom luxury home with chef’s kitchen, open-concept living, and an incredible backyard oasis with outdoor theatre, hot tub, and pool. Features a fully finished basement and oversized garage with 16-ft ceilings. Step outside to your private backyard oasis featuring a covered deck, outdoor theatre, custom plumbed BBQ, hot tub, above-ground pool, and underground sprinklers. Upstairs offers spacious bedrooms with walk-in closets, including a luxurious primary suite with a spa-inspired ensuite. An additional bedroom features a private den, perfect for a home office, playroom, or study.
RURAL & ACREAGE OPPORTUNITIES IN THE NICOLA VALLEY 5508 Harmon 3596 Fox 10 Acres Estates Road Farm Road $944,900 $435,000 Fully FurnishedM 2 bdrm, 2 bath rancher on 0.30 acre waterfront on Nicola Lake. Attached garage, RV parking
1540 Canford Ave $430,000
2 Bed. 1 Bath, a Heritage Home with character & timeless appeal. Full of warmth and original charm including hardwood floors, updated with new windows and furnace.Fully fenced yard, with detached outbuilding and storage. Close to amenities.
Offering 1,508 sq. ft. of one-level living, the home features 2 spacious bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. The open-concept kitchen, dining, and living areas are filled with natural light thanks to many large windows, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere throughout.
2063 Castillou Crs - $549,000
1616 Fir Rd $585,000
.23-acre lot backing onto Crown land, this home offers direct access to hiking & biking trails while remaining within city limits. The main floor features a spacious kitchen with ample cabinetry, a dining area, and sliding doors to the back deck & fenced yard. The large living room includes a wood-burning fireplace for added warmth & comfort.
3 Bed / 2 Bath. Bright open-concept home with walkout daylight basement to a private fenced yard with amazing views. Attached garage and ample parking.
LOWER NICOLA 2268 Schindler 2.1 Acres Crescent $695,000 Half-acre lot with a 4-bdrm, 2-bath home, 2-car detached garage.
3-Bed, 1-Bath home on a spacious 0.35-acre corner lot w/ a detached 31’ x 34’ 2-car shop connected to the home by a covered breezeway.
2398 Reid Ave $799,000
2376 Quilchena Ave - $329,000
4 bdrm, 1 bath singlewide mobile w/ addition offering approx. 1,690 sq. ft. of living space. A great opportunity to bring your renovation ideas & personal touches. Outside features a large deck, fenced yard & off-street parking, with room to relax & entertain.
448 Woodward Ave - $589,000
Lot 2 Nicola Ave - $229,000
2.718-acre raw land parcel, Zoned AR1,Great opportunity for buyers looking for space, exposure & future possibilities. .
1288 Douglas St - $290,000
NEW!
HOMES IN THE MERRITT AREA
NEW!
53 Acres
160 Acres
160 Acres Off Grid. Private retreat with creekside views, abundant wildlife, detached shop with loft, solar power, generator backup, and natural spring water.
53 Acres. Fully fenced and cross-fenced property with two homes, two shops, pastures, livestock shelters, and chicken coop. Private setting with expansive views & direct access to Crown land.
9.9 Acres
NEW! 4.6 Acres
1373 Miller Road - $1,125,000
NEW!
4 bed/2 bath home. Fully fenced 0.23-acre yard with double-gate access, covered storage and plenty of room for a future shop or additional parking. Quiet location close to schools and amenities.
9.6 Acres
COMMERCIAL OPPORTUNITY 3649 Merritt NEW PRICE! Spences Bridge Hwy $750,000
Exceptional commercial opportunity offering over 10,000 SQFT of versatile space on the highly visible highway corridor. Zoned C1 w/extensive use potential. Currently operating as an inn with 12 fully furnished rooms, a restaurant area, and storefront possibilities. Outstanding Thompson River views enhance the appeal of this unique property with strong commercial potential.
537 WildRose Drive $249,000 - NEW
This 4.6-acre property is priced to sell, offering the perfect opportunity to enjoy a peaceful rural lifestyle while remaining just 15 minutes south of Merritt. Surrounded by beautiful countryside, with nearby lakes, hiking trails, and endless outdoor recreation, this property is an ideal setting for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. Zoned RL-1
1,765 sq. ft. home with 60’ x 30’ shop, with 3-phase power, excellent potential for a variety of uses.
360 Gray Ave $559,000
5000 Starshine Way - $1,600,000
3816 Petit Creek Rd - $1,550,000
Beautiful acreage with a 2-bedroom home plus flex room, 3 baths, double garage, stunning south-facing views, riding arena, barn, fenced pasture, and outbuildings.
390 Marshall Road $459,000
10-acre bare land parcel backing onto Crown land. Very private with sweeping views and direct access to recreation and nature.
1889 Nicolls Rd - $749,000
9.6-acre property just 15 mins W of Merritt. 3 bdrm, 1 bath manuf. home w/ elec. furnace & wood stove, plus openconcept living, kitchen & dining w/ large island. Ideal for hobby farming, livestock or rural living, w/ power to multiple bldgs, 7 frost-free hydrants & powered greenhouse. Includes a 16’ x 40’ barn, versatile insulated/heated/cooled sea-can w/ workspace & storage, livestock pens & full perimeter fencing. Plenty of room to build your dream shop!
LOGAN LAKE AREA 210-279 Alder Dr NEW! $139,900 Bright 1 bdrm, 1 bath
front unit w/ private balcony & breathtaking Logan Lake views. A brand-new sliding door & excellent investment potential make this a great option for 1st-time buyers or investors.
311-279 Alder Dr - $165,000 - 2 bdrm, 1 bath unit w/ great investment potential. Logan Lake is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts, offering 4-season recreation including fishing, hiking, golf, disc golf, camping, ATVing & winter skiing
22 | THURSDAY, Sept. 3, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com
SOLD
1637 Coldwater Ave - $195,000