October brought a shift toward a tighter market in Kimberley and the surrounding areas, with fewer homes available and continued buyer activity keeping things moving.

Inventory and Sales Trends

New listings were down by about 21% compared to October 2024, while the number of homes sold increased by nearly 17%. That combination means buyers are still actively looking, even though there are fewer options to choose from.

Active inventory dropped to 98 homes, which is down about 18% from last year. This reduced supply has helped maintain healthy price levels across the board.

Pricing and Market Balance

The average sale price in Kimberley in October was approximately $568,000, representing a 15% increase from the same time last year. The list-to-sale ratio averaged 95.4%, showing that while buyers are negotiating a bit more, sellers who price strategically are still achieving strong results.

Homes are spending a little more time on the market, with the average days to sell now around 74 days, up slightly from last year. This is consistent with a market where buyers are taking time to make confident decisions, but well-prepared listings continue to perform well.

What This Means for Sellers

Even though there are fewer listings overall, motivated buyers are still out there. With strong marketing, accurate pricing, and professional presentation, sellers can expect solid interest, especially as we move toward the winter and early spring market.

What This Means for Buyers

For buyers, this market still offers good opportunities, but preparation is key. With fewer homes available, it’s important to have financing in order and be ready to act when the right property appears.

In Summary

October’s data reflects a balanced, healthy market - one where confidence remains steady and both buyers and sellers have opportunities to achieve their goals with the right strategy.

If you are thinking about buying or selling in Kimberley, Cranbrook, or the East Kootenay area, I am happy to help you understand how these trends fit your specific situation.

November is Take Action on Radon Month, a national initiative led by Health Canada and TakeActionOnRadon.ca to help Canadians learn about the hidden health risks of radon gas and what we can do to protect our homes and families.

If you’re a homeowner in Kimberley, Cranbrook, or the surrounding areas, this is something worth paying attention to because our region shows some of the highest radon readings in B.C.

What Is Radon, and Why Should You Care?

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that comes from the ground. You can’t see it, smell it, or taste it, but if it builds up inside your home, it can pose a serious health risk. Over time, exposure to high radon levels can increase the risk of lung cancer, even for non-smokers.

The good news? It’s easy to test and even easier to fix.

What the Local Data Shows

The Kimberley Community Radon Report (June 2024) found that:

• 159 homes in Kimberley participated in radon testing between 2022 and 2023.

• Nearly half (49%) of those homes tested above Health Canada’s safe guideline of 200 Bq/m³.

• 36% were between 100–200 Bq/m³, and only 23% were under 100 Bq/m³.

That means that 1 in 2 homes in our community may have elevated radon levels, and most homeowners have no idea until they test.

 How to Test Your Home for Radon

Testing is simple and affordable. You can order a 91-day long-term test kit directly from TakeActionOnRadon.ca/test or from your local health authority.

Here’s how it works:

1. Place the small test device in your home (usually in a basement or lowest living area).

2. Leave it undisturbed for 91 days.

3. Mail it back to the lab for analysis and you’ll get your results.

What to Do If Your Levels Are High

If your results come back above 200 Bq/m³, Health Canada recommends taking action to reduce radon levels.

• Between 200–600 Bq/m³: Plan to fix within 2 years.

• Above 600 Bq/m³: Act within 1 year.

Certified radon mitigation professionals can install systems that reduce radon levels by up to 90%.

You can find a certified pro here:  TakeActionOnRadon.ca/test/find-a-radon-mitigation-professional

Why This Matters to Homeowners

As a REALTOR® in the Kimberley–Cranbrook area, I see firsthand how important it is for buyers and sellers to understand radon. Testing your home not only protects your family’s health but can also give you an edge in the real estate market.

Whether you’re buying, selling, or staying put, knowing your home’s radon level shows that you’re informed, proactive, and care about long-term safety.

Take Action This November

If you haven’t tested yet, November is the perfect time to start. You can:

• Order a test kit at TakeActionOnRadon.ca/test

• Learn more at TakeActionOnRadon.ca

• Or reach out to me. I’m always happy to connect you with trusted professionals and resources to make the process simple.

Let’s make sure our community stays informed and protected. Because a healthy home is a happy home 💛

There’s something happening in the East Kootenay right now, and it’s not just the fall colours lighting up the valley. More and more people are trading big-city burnout for mountain-town balance, and Kimberley, BC is at the centre of it.

As a REALTOR® who made this move myself, I can tell you firsthand that people aren’t just looking for a home anymore. They’re looking for a life.

🏡 My Kimberley Story: Finding Home and Balance

A few years back, I was living in Canmore, Alberta, another beautiful mountain town that I absolutely loved. But as anyone familiar with the Bow Valley market knows, owning a home there can feel out of reach. Prices were sky-high, and I realized that even after years of hard work, I’d never be able to afford the kind of home or lifestyle I wanted.

My husband and I are both snowboarders, and one winter he decided to ride a few resorts along the Powder Highway. That’s when he discovered Kimberley. A few months later, we came back in the summer to go camping, and that was all it took.

We fell in love.

Kimberley had everything we wanted: endless trails like Kimberley Nature Park, Lois Creek, and Forest Crowne, plus a strong community vibe and down-to-earth locals. It felt real, welcoming, and refreshingly not “touristy.”

And the best part? Homeownership was actually within reach.

💡 Kimberley Real Estate Market Update: September 2025

Fast forward to today, and many buyers are discovering exactly what we did.

Here’s what the latest data from the Association of Interior REALTORS® shows for September 2025 in Kimberley:

• Sales activity increased by 21% compared to last year.

• Average sale price decreased by 24%, with detached single-family homes and yards now starting around $405,000.

• Inventory dropped nearly 31%, showing that homes are still selling steadily.

• Average days on market dipped slightly, meaning well-priced homes are moving quickly.

For buyers, this creates a unique opportunity. The market is active but not overheated, giving first-time homebuyers and relocation buyers the chance to find great homes without bidding wars.

For sellers, it means there’s consistent demand, especially for well-presented listings that highlight Kimberley’s lifestyle and outdoor appeal.

🌲 The East Kootenay Lifestyle Advantage

Ask anyone why they’ve moved here and you’ll hear the same reasons again and again:

• A slower pace of life that lets you truly enjoy your days.

• Access to year-round outdoor recreation like hiking, biking, skiing, and paddling.

• A genuine sense of community that makes newcomers feel welcome.

The East Kootenay lifestyle is about balance. You can finish your workday, grab your dog, and hit a trail before sunset. You can own a home that feels like a retreat, without giving up comfort or connection.

🏘️ What This Means for Kimberley Real Estate

The takeaway is simple. Kimberley is offering something rare in today’s market: affordable homeownership in a beautiful, connected mountain community.

Buyers are finding they don’t have to choose between lifestyle and practicality. They can have both.

And for sellers, this growing interest means now is a smart time to showcase what makes your property special. Homes that are move-in ready, priced right, and marketed with professional visuals continue to stand out.

☕ Why Kimberley Still Feels Like a Permanent Vacation

Living here honestly feels like a permanent vacation. Maybe it’s the trails, maybe it’s the friendly faces, but there’s an energy in Kimberley that’s hard to describe until you experience it.

I’ve lived in fourteen towns, four states, three provinces, and three countries, and nowhere has captured my heart like this place.

If you’ve been dreaming about slowing down, breathing mountain air, and owning a home that actually feels like you, maybe it’s time to explore what life in Kimberley, BC could look like.

I’d love to help you discover it, whether that’s through a virtual tour or an in-person visit.

Relocating is exciting and chaotic. New jobs, school schedules, and packing can make the process feel overwhelming. When you cannot be here in person for every showing, a thorough virtual tour can be the difference between guessing and feeling confident.

Photos vs. Reality

MLS photos are great for first impressions, but they do not tell you how a home flows, how natural light moves through the rooms, or whether that “cozy” bedroom actually fits a real bed. My virtual tours give you the full picture. You can experience the layout, the scale, and the quirks just as if you were walking through with me.

Inspector Level Detail Without the Jargon

On every tour, I point out the good, the bad, and the “let’s budget for that later.” I cover window seals, yard grading, wear and tear, noise levels, smells, storage, and anything else you would want to know. This transparency gives relocating buyers the confidence to make informed decisions even when they are miles away.

A Real Story: From the North to Their New Home

Recently I worked with a couple living in northern Canada. They had both accepted new jobs here and were moving no matter what, but their children’s school schedule meant they could not travel ahead of time. We did several virtual tours together, and they chose their home based on those videos.

What made the difference? They told me the videos were a much more realistic representation than the MLS photos. They could see exactly how rooms connected, how much space there was, and every detail that might affect their decision. They ended up removing conditions before ever setting foot in the house. The first time they saw their home in person was after subject removal, and they loved it. The detailed virtual tour gave them the confidence to move forward for themselves and their two small children.

Why Sellers Love This Too

Out of town buyers who feel confident are able to act quickly. This means more exposure for sellers and fewer days on the market. Everyone wins.

The Bottom Line

Buying from afar does not have to feel like a gamble. With a detailed and honest virtual tour, you can make a confident decision without booking a single flight.

Relocating soon? Let’s schedule a virtual tour that shows you everything the photos do not.

(These stats are for residential real estate within Kimberley city limits)

Here’s a quick snapshot of what’s happening in the local market:

🏡 New Listings: 25 (-21.8% YoY)
🔑 Sold Listings: 18 (+20% YoY)
📦 Active Inventory: 95 (-26.9% YoY)
⏳ Days on Market: 67 (+5.6% YoY)
💰 Avg. List-to-Sold Price: 96.6% (+2.3% YoY)

Fewer new listings are hitting the market, but sales are up and sellers are seeing strong offers, with some properties receiving multiple offers and selling over the listed price.

Thinking of buying or selling? Let’s chat about what these numbers mean for you!

#buyandsellwithmichelle #michellefendelanderrealtor #michellefendelanderrealestate #michellesells #mfrealtor #mfrealestate #kimberleybc #agoodplacetobe #kimberleybcrealestate #kimberelybcrealtor #eastkootenays #eastkootenayrealestate #eastkootenayrealtor #cranbrookbc #cranbrookbcrealtor #cranbrookbcrealestate #mountainliving #mountainlifestyle #kootenayliving #kootenaylife #powderhighwayrealtor #powderhighwayrealestate

If you have never heard of the Royal Lepage Shelter Foundation, allow me to take a moment to give you a bit of information on this amazing foundation created by Royal LePage in 1998, which helps women and children find safety from domestic abuse.  Since its founding, the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation has grown to become the largest public foundation in Canada dedicated exclusively to funding women’s shelters and domestic violence prevention. Royal LePage is the only Canadian real estate company with its own charitable foundation.The Shelter Foundation has raised over $46 million to-date and currently supports 200 local women’s shelters and national partners.  

When attending the 2024 Royal Lepage National Sales Conference in Calgary, I was able to attend the Shelter Foundation silent auction and witness all of the incredible donations pour in.  I was inspired to get involved, and immediately signed up to be a donor.  I am happy to say that I now donate a portion of my commission from every home sold.  As Royal Lepage says, a house is only a home if the people who live there feel safe, and I completely agree.

If you’d like more information on this program, or to ask how you can get involved - get in touch.

*These stats are for residential sales in Kimberley during the month of June*

Would you like to talk real estate?
Are you considering selling and buying a new home?
Are you finally ready to buy your first home?

I am taking new clients and would be happy to help you.

📱(250)908-7707
📧mfendelander@gmail.com

#michellefendelanderrealtor #michellefendelanderrealestate #buyandsellwithmichelle #MFrealestate #MFRealtor #kimberleybc #agoodplacetobe #kimberleybcrealestate #kimberleybcrealtor #buyandsellwithmichelle #cranbrookbc #cranbrookbcrealtor #kootenayliving #kootenaylifestyle #mountainliving #mountainlifestyle

Come and say hello, and view this substantially renovated 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom home located a convenient 3 minute drive from downtown #kimberleybc

I will be hosting from 12:00-2:00PM, this Saturday, May 11th.

https://www.facebook.com/events/1701270880610798

Aaron Butcher, owner/operator of Horizon 360 Media has created an amazing virtual tour of the Kimberley/Cranbrook region (and the area in between).  He has kindly given permission for me to share this on my site, as I think this is an incredible tool for non-locals considering moving to the area, to familiarize themselves with what we have to offer.

Take the tour: Fly Over the East Kootenays

Check out his website.  Horizon 360 Media 

Take a moment to experience the St. Mary’s Valley via drone.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a0kUlQ50rMc

The proposed BC home flipping tax applies to income you realize from the sale of properties in British Columbia if you have owned them for less than 2 years.

The tax, which is subject to legislative approval, is separate and distinct from the federal property flipping rules and is not harmonized or administered with the federal or B.C. income tax.

Overview

The BC home flipping tax will apply to income from B.C. properties sold on or after January 1, 2025. Income from property purchased before the tax’s effective date may be subject to the new tax if sold on or after January 1, 2025 if the property is sold within 2 years, unless an exemption applies.

As previously announced in British Columbia’s Homes For People plan, the intention of the tax is to discourage short-term holding of property for profit.

How the tax will work

The BC home flipping tax will apply to income from the sale of property that was owned for less than 2 years.

The tax rate will be highest for those who owned properties for the shortest period and will decline the longer the property is owned. The tax rate will be 20 percent for income earned from properties sold within 365 days of purchase and will decline to zero between 366 and 730 days.

You may be exempt from paying tax on income earned from the sale of your property if you are eligible for an exemption.   

Who will be subject to the tax

If you sell your property on or after January 1, 2025, income earned from the sale of your property may be subject to the new tax if the property was purchased less than 2 years prior. Whether income earned from the sale of your property is subject to the tax depends on when you purchased the property.

Examples:

• If you purchased a property on May 1, 2023 and sold the property on January 31, 2025, income you earn from the sale of the property would be taxable.

• If you decide not to sell a property until June 1, 2025, then income you earn from the sale of the property would not be subject to the tax.

Note: The seller of the property may be a B.C. resident or a resident anywhere else in the world.

Exemptions

You may be eligible for exemptions if there are life circumstances that motivated the sale of a property within 2 years, such as:

• Separation or divorce

• Death

• Disability or illness

• Relocation for work

• Involuntary job loss

• Change in household membership

• Personal safety

• Insolvency

If you sell your primary residence within 2 years of purchase, you may also be able to exclude up to $20,000 when calculating your taxable income.

The purpose of this tax is to support housing supply, not impede it. Exemptions will be provided for those who add to the housing supply or engage in construction and real estate development.

The above information does not reflect an exhaustive list of the exemptions that will be included in this new tax. More information on these exemptions and others will be provided in the future.

Relevant properties

The tax will apply to income earned from the sale of:

• Properties with a housing unit

• Properties zoned for residential use

• The right to acquire the above properties, such as the assignment of a purchase contract 

The tax will include special rules for properties, or portions of properties, that have non-residential purposes.

Income earned from the sale of properties located on reserve lands, treaty lands and lands of self-governing Indigenous Nations will not be subject to this tax.

Ministry of Finance. BC Home Flipping Tax - Province of British Columbia. 22 Feb. 2024, www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/taxes/income-taxes/bc-home-flipping-tax#exemptions.

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