The Benefits of Buying a Vacation or Rental Property in Kamloops

Kamloops, British Columbia, is more than just a beautiful city—it’s a destination that blends nature, adventure, culture, and community. Whether you're looking to escape to a peaceful mountain getaway or you're seeking a smart investment opportunity, buying a vacation or rental property in Kamloops can be a rewarding move.
With a growing population, steady tourism, and a balanced lifestyle that appeals to both locals and visitors, Kamloops is quickly becoming a hotspot for real estate investors, especially those eyeing vacation homes or short-term rental properties.
In this article, we’ll explore why Kamloops is such a compelling location for vacation and rental property investments—and how you can make the most of it.
Why Kamloops?
Kamloops is often described as “Canada’s Tournament Capital” for its year-round events, outdoor recreation, and growing tourism sector. Located in the heart of BC’s interior, Kamloops is surrounded by lakes, rolling hills, trails, and ski resorts, making it a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts and vacationers.
It’s easily accessible via the Coquihalla Highway, has its own regional airport, and is only a few hours from Vancouver or Calgary, which adds to its appeal as a weekend or seasonal getaway spot.
1. Year-Round Tourism Potential
Unlike many vacation destinations that experience only seasonal demand, Kamloops draws tourists all year long. Here’s how each season supports rental income:
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Spring: Hiking, biking, golf, fishing—mild weather brings in active travelers.
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Summer: Lake life booms! People come for boating, paddleboarding, camping, and festivals.
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Fall: Stunning foliage attracts photographers, hikers, and wine-country tourists.
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Winter: Sun Peaks Resort—one of Canada's top ski destinations—is just 45 minutes away, keeping rental demand strong.
Owning a vacation property in Kamloops means you're not limited to one high season. Your unit can generate income almost every month.
2. Strong Short-Term Rental Market
Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo have made it easier than ever to turn a vacation home into a reliable source of income. Kamloops' mix of recreational tourism, business travel, sports tournaments, and family visits means there's consistent short-term rental demand.
What makes a Kamloops vacation rental attractive?
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Proximity to Sun Peaks or the downtown core
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Scenic views (river, valley, or mountain)
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Access to trails, parks, and golf courses
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Pet-friendly and family-friendly options
In some areas, well-managed short-term rentals have the potential to outperform long-term rentals—especially if you furnish the unit and cater to visiting tourists.
Pro Tip: Before buying, check zoning regulations and strata bylaws if you're buying a condo or townhome to ensure short-term rentals are permitted.
3. Opportunity for Personal Use and Profit
One of the biggest advantages of owning a vacation property is that you can use it yourself whenever it's not rented out. You can enjoy:
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Family getaways
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Ski trips
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Long weekends away from the city
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Retirement planning for future use
At the same time, when you’re not using it, the property works for you by generating passive income.
Many buyers are now purchasing vacation homes in Kamloops with hybrid purposes—as both an income-generating rental and a part-time personal retreat.
4. Property Appreciation and Market Growth
Kamloops has seen consistent real estate growth over the past decade. While larger cities like Vancouver face saturation and high entry barriers, Kamloops offers:
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More affordable purchase prices
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Lower property taxes
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Room for market appreciation
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Increasing demand from remote workers and retirees
As more people seek lifestyle-based living and “work-from-anywhere” options, Kamloops' balance of affordability, amenities, and recreation makes it a top-tier choice for buyers and investors alike.
5. Top Areas for Vacation and Rental Properties in Kamloops
Here are some of the most sought-after areas for vacation and rental property buyers:
🏔️ Sun Peaks
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A four-season resort village with skiing, mountain biking, golf, and events
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High nightly rates and strong occupancy during peak seasons
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Great for luxury chalets, townhomes, or ski-in/ski-out condos
🌅 Sahali & Aberdeen
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Close to downtown, schools, TRU (Thompson Rivers University), and shopping
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Good for mid- to long-term furnished rentals or vacation stays
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Higher resale potential and solid infrastructure
🌊 Lac Le Jeune & Paul Lake
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Waterfront and lakeview properties just outside Kamloops
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Ideal for vacation use and seasonal rentals
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Popular among families and couples looking for quiet retreats
🏞️ Downtown Kamloops / North Shore
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Central, walkable, and close to events, breweries, and shopping
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Good for Airbnb-style short-term stays
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A mix of heritage homes, modern condos, and smaller houses
Final Thoughts
Buying a vacation or rental property in Kamloops gives you the best of both worlds: a chance to enjoy everything this city offers and build long-term wealth. Whether you're after seasonal income, a future retirement spot, or an escape from the city life, Kamloops checks all the boxes.
From its year-round tourism appeal to its strong property values and unmatched natural beauty, Kamloops is truly a smart, sustainable choice for real estate investment.
Thinking of investing?
Let an experienced professional guide you through the process.
📞 Kevin Scharfenberg
Personal Real Estate Corporation
📍 Kamloops & Surrounding Area Expert
📱 250-457-1795
📧 kevin@kevinscharfenberg.com
🏡 Brokered by: eXp Realty
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Kevin Scharfenberg
Personal Real Estate Corporation | License ID: 180491
Personal Real Estate Corporation License ID: 180491