Kelowna Real Estate Blog | Kelowna Real Estate News & Information

Looking to invest in rental property in Canada?

Canada has a thriving real estate market, but not all cities are created equal when it comes to investment potential.

In this article, we'll highlight the top 5 cities in Canada to buy rental property - including their main attractions for VRBO and Airbnb tenants - and why they're an excellent choice for investors seeking to capitalize on Canada’s booming property rental market.

Kelowna, British Columbia

Kelowna is a city located in the Okanagan Valley of British Columbia, and it is consistently rated as one of the best places to live in Canada. With a growing population of over 142,000 people, fantastic weather, and a strong economy, Kelowna’s healthy rental market makes it an ideal location for property investors.

Kelowna's low vacancy rates and high demand for rental housing make it an attractive option for those looking for a stable rental market. In addition to its real estate potential, Kelowna is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, vibrant cultural scene, and excellent amenities.

Kelowna is home to world-class wineries, golf courses, hiking and walking trails, restaurants, and ski resorts, making it a popular destination for tourists - and a great place to call home.

• Wine Tours: Kelowna is home to some of the best wineries in Canada, with over 40 wineries in the area. Visitors can take guided wine tours and tastings to experience the local wine culture.

• Outdoor Recreation: Kelowna is situated on the shores of Okanagan Lake, and the surrounding area offers a wealth of outdoor recreation opportunities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, golfing, fishing, and skiing in the nearby mountains.

• Cultural Events: Kelowna hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including music festivals, art exhibitions, and theater performances. The city is also home to the Kelowna Art Gallery and the Kelowna Community Theatre, which showcase local artists and performers.

Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver is a coastal city located in southwestern British Columbia, Canada. It is known for its natural beauty, diverse cultural scene, and vibrant economy. The city is consistently ranked as one of the most livable cities in the world, and it is a popular destination for tourists and business travelers.

Vancouver offers a wide variety of attractions and activities, from outdoor recreation to world-class dining and entertainment.

• Stanley Park: Stanley Park is a 1,000-acre public park located in the heart of Vancouver. It offers a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking trails, beaches, and scenic drives. The park is also home to the Vancouver Aquarium and the Totem Poles, a collection of First Nations art.

• Granville Island: Granville Island is a unique urban oasis located in the heart of Vancouver. It features a public market, artisan studios, theaters, galleries, and a variety of restaurants and shops. Visitors can take a water taxi to the island and spend the day exploring its many attractions.

• Grouse Mountain: Grouse Mountain is a popular year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It offers hiking and skiing trails, a zipline course, and a wildlife refuge. Visitors can also take the gondola to the top of the mountain for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.

Despite its high property prices, Vancouver remains a popular location for investors thanks to its strong rental demand and a steadily growing population.

Vancouver's real estate market is relatively stable, with demand for rental properties outpacing supply. Investors can take advantage of this market by purchasing rental properties in desirable locations throughout the city.

Victoria, British Columbia

As the capital of British Columbia and a major tourist destination, Victoria offers a stable rental market and a diverse range of housing options. The city's mild climate and beautiful waterfront location make it a popular place to live, and its growing tech sector is driving economic growth. 

In addition to its real estate potential, Victoria is known for its cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, and theaters. The city also boasts excellent restaurants, shopping, and outdoor activities - such as hiking, kayaking, and whale watching.

• The Butchart Gardens: The Butchart Gardens is a world-famous floral display garden located just outside of Victoria. It features 55 acres of stunning gardens, including the Sunken Garden, the Japanese Garden, and the Rose Garden.

• Whale Watching Tours: Victoria is one of the best places in the world to see whales in their natural habitat. Visitors can take whale watching tours to see orcas, humpback whales, and other marine wildlife up close.

• Royal BC Museum: The Royal BC Museum is a must-visit attraction for history buffs and museum-goers. The museum features exhibits that showcase the natural and cultural history of British Columbia, including displays on First Nations cultures, European settlement, and the province's natural environment.

Nanaimo, British Columbia

Nanaimo is a city located on the eastern coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. Known as the "Harbor City," Nanaimo is a thriving community with a strong economy, a rich cultural scene, and a stunning natural environment.

Nanaimo is a growing city with a thriving rental market. The city's affordable real estate prices and growing economy make it an attractive option for investors looking to buy rental property in British Columbia.

Nanaimo is known for its natural beauty, with easy access to beaches, parks, and hiking trails. The city also has a strong arts scene, with many galleries and theaters showcasing local talent. Here are some of the things that make Nanaimo a great place to visit:

• Nanaimo Bar Trail: The Nanaimo Bar is a famous Canadian dessert, and the city of Nanaimo has created a self-guided Nanaimo Bar Trail that allows visitors to sample the best Nanaimo Bars in town. The trail includes 39 locations that offer unique twists on this classic dessert.

• Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park: Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The island features hiking trails, beaches, and picnic areas, as well as a historic sandstone quarry that was used to build many of Nanaimo's earliest buildings.

• Nanaimo Harbourfront Walkway: The Nanaimo Harbourfront Walkway is a scenic pathway that stretches along the waterfront in downtown Nanaimo. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the harbor and nearby islands while walking, biking, or rollerblading along the pathway. The walkway also features public art installations and historic landmarks.

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Halifax is a charming coastal city located on the east coast of Canada which offers a stable rental market with strong investment potential. The city's growing population and diversified economy make it an attractive location for investors.

Halifax is known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities, including sailing, hiking, and skiing. The city also has a vibrant nightlife and a thriving arts scene, with many festivals and events throughout the year. Here are some of the top attractions:

• Halifax Citadel National Historic Site: The Halifax Citadel is a historic fort that was built in the 18th century to protect the city from attack. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and a National Historic Site of Canada. Visitors can explore the fort's ramparts, barracks, and artillery demonstrations.

• Peggy's Cove: Peggy's Cove is a picturesque fishing village located just outside of Halifax. It is famous for its lighthouse and rocky shoreline, which make it a popular spot for photography and sightseeing. Visitors can also explore the village's galleries, shops, and restaurants.

• Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk: The Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk is a scenic pathway that stretches along the harbor in downtown Halifax. It features a variety of attractions, including historic landmarks, public art installations, and shops and restaurants. Visitors can also take a harbor cruise or watch the ships come and go.

Maximizing Your Rental Property Investment: Best Canadian Cities to Buy In

Kelowna, BC, Vancouver, BC, Victoria, BC, Nanaimo, BC, and Halifax, NS offer unique investment opportunities - from strong rental demand to cultural attractions and natural beauty. 

Investing in rental properties in these cities can provide stable returns and potential for long-term appreciation. Whether you're an experienced investor or just starting, these cities are definitely worth considering for your next investment.

If you're interested in buying an investment property in Kelowna, BC - or anywhere in the Okanagan Valley - contact Vantage West Realty today at +1 (250) 717-3133 to see the latest available properties on the MLS.

Our award-winning property management service is perfect for busy property owners who want to maximize their rental income - without the stress of screening tenants and managing the property yourself.