If you're searching for the perfect blend of commercial success and residential comfort, 605/607 Railway Ave in downtown Ashcroft offers an unmatched opportunity. This custom-built property, constructed in 2021, is ideal for creative professionals and investors alike, offering versatile mixed-use space, reliable income, and a prime location. Here’s why this property should be at the top of your list: 1. Prime Location in Downtown Ashcroft Situated in the heart of Ashcroft, this property offers incredible exposure and convenience. Downtown Ashcroft is known for its bustling energy and charm, attracting both locals and tourists. Being located near award-winning parks and high tourist traffic, this property benefits from consistent foot traffic, ensuring that the commercial side of the property thrives. 2. Commercial Space with Reliable Income Stream A standout feature is the well-established UniTea Cafe and Lounge, a beloved eatery with a 3-year tenant history that serves a unique blend of Mexican and Greek comfort foods. This popular cafe ensures a steady income stream, making it a low-risk investment. Additionally, there’s a front office or art studio space with its own street access, perfect for an artist, entrepreneur, or professional looking for a workspace with ample natural light and visibility.   3. Efficient & Modern Amenities for Comfortable Living The residential part of the property offers modern, energy-efficient amenities. High-efficiency facilities, a modern furnace, and central air conditioning guarantee low utility costs and year-round comfort. The living space includes a large open-plan living/dining area with a cozy WETT-certified wood stove, stainless steel appliances, and custom features like a painted ceiling and a 6 ft kitchen island. Two spacious bedrooms are located upstairs, with the potential to add a third bedroom, making it adaptable for growing families. 4. Extensive Storage and Outdoor Spaces The property is designed for both functionality and creativity. It features multiple storage options, including a 20x30 storage shelter, an 8x20 garden shed, and an 8x40 sea can with electricity, perfect for workshops or studios. The outdoor space is equally impressive, with concrete patios, sidewalks, and a charming bandstand, ideal for hosting events or enjoying time outdoors. The decorative fenced area has been used for "Gospel in the Garden" and can easily become a hub for community events or private gatherings. 5. Separate Power Services & Versatile Functionality This property is designed for flexibility, with separate power services to the front and back residences, making it ideal for live-work arrangements. You can comfortably live on one side while generating rental income from the other or fully operate a business and living space without interruption. 6. Creative and Entrepreneurial Haven This property is perfect for artists, entrepreneurs, and creatives. Whether you want to run a thriving business while enjoying a cozy home or expand your art studio, 605/607 Railway Ave offers the perfect setting to combine your passions with your profession. The property has been thoughtfully designed to support creativity and innovation, all while being conveniently located in one of Ashcroft’s most desirable areas. Conclusion Investing in 605/607 Railway Ave is more than just purchasing property—it's securing a versatile lifestyle with a stable income stream in a thriving location. Whether you're an entrepreneur looking for a live-work opportunity, an artist seeking inspiration, or an investor looking for a solid return, this unique property offers endless potential. With its modern amenities, prime location, and creative spaces, 605/607 Railway Ave is the perfect investment in today’s market. Contact Kevin Scharfenberg* for More Information To learn more about this incredible opportunity, contact Kevin Scharfenberg, Personal Real Estate Corporation, at 250-457-1795. Brokered by: EXP Realty. Don't miss your chance to own this exceptional property in Ashcroft!

If you’ve been searching for a stunning waterfront property that offers both tranquility and potential for investment, look no further than 2474 Loon Lake Rd in Loon Lake, British Columbia. This 1.46-acre property is a rare gem that combines breathtaking natural beauty, versatile living spaces, and endless opportunities for outdoor recreation or business. Whether you're looking for a personal retreat or an investment with income potential, here’s why you’ll love this unique listing. 1. Prime Waterfront Location Imagine waking up to serene mountain and lake views every day. Located on the shores of Loon Lake, this property provides direct access to the water, making it ideal for anyone who loves swimming, fishing, boating, or simply relaxing by the lake. The level beach area, large dock, and floating dock with two wave runner ramps offer plenty of space for waterfront activities, making this property perfect for family gatherings, guest accommodations, or even a small business. 2. Endless Opportunities for Investment or Recreation Formerly known as Wells Park Fishing Resort, this property offers fantastic potential for those looking to run a business. With C-4 zoning, it's perfectly suited for a variety of uses, including setting up a small RV park, a bed-and-breakfast, or simply hosting family and friends. The property includes nine RV spots, five of which have full hookups, making it easy to accommodate guests or generate rental income. The outdoor washrooms and bunkhouse add to the property's convenience, ensuring that everyone has access to the necessary amenities.    3. Charming Dwellings with Modern Updates 2474 Loon Lake Rd features two separate dwellings that are both cozy and functional. The Back Cabin, located close to the road, is a charming 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom space that offers a cozy kitchen and sitting area—ideal for use as a guesthouse or vacation rental. The main home has been beautifully remodeled, featuring two bedrooms, one bathroom, and a large mudroom. The custom kitchen is a standout feature, with stainless steel appliances and a stunning live edge cherry wood bar that makes entertaining a breeze. You’ll also appreciate the updated bathroom, complete with high-end commercial flooring, providing both durability and style. The cozy wood stove and baseboard backup heating ensure comfort year-round, no matter the season.   4. Off-Grid Living with Modern Comforts For those who dream of an off-grid lifestyle without sacrificing comfort, this property delivers. You'll have the chance to enjoy the peace and quiet of nature, while still benefiting from modern amenities like a newly remodeled kitchen, updated flooring, and reliable heating options. The expansive land gives you plenty of space to explore, garden, or even expand on the existing RV setup. This property provides the perfect blend of self-sufficiency and luxury living. 5. Stunning Views and Outdoor Lifestyle Few properties offer the kind of panoramic views you’ll find at Loon Lake. Whether you’re relaxing on the dock, enjoying a cup of coffee by the water, or taking in the sunset from the comfort of your home, you’ll be surrounded by nature’s beauty at every turn. The large dock, complete with a covered gazebo, is perfect for lakeside gatherings or enjoying quiet moments by the water. For outdoor enthusiasts, the location offers easy access to crown land and hours of ATV or horse riding trails, making it a haven for those who love adventure. 6. Convenient Yet Secluded Location Although the property offers a peaceful, off-the-grid lifestyle, it is conveniently located just a four-hour drive from the Fraser Valley and only minutes from Cherryville and Lumby. You can enjoy the seclusion of a private waterfront property while still having access to nearby towns for essential shopping, dining, and entertainment. Kids attending Cherryville Elementary are just a short drive away, making this property ideal for families as well. 7. Perfect Blend of Tranquility and Versatility Whether you're looking for a serene place to call home or a property that offers business potential, 2474 Loon Lake Rd provides the best of both worlds. The mix of upgraded homes, multiple RV spaces, a waterfront dock, and vast land creates a versatile opportunity that is hard to find in today's market. The property’s natural beauty, combined with its practical amenities, makes it a perfect investment for anyone seeking a tranquil lifestyle or a lucrative venture.   Conclusion: Don't Miss Out on This Incredible Opportunity 2474 Loon Lake Rd offers a unique chance to own a piece of waterfront paradise with tremendous potential for personal enjoyment or investment. The property’s rich history as a fishing resort, combined with its modern upgrades, makes it ideal for a wide range of buyers. From its stunning lake views and upgraded dwellings to its business potential and outdoor activities, this property has something for everyone. If you're ready to explore this extraordinary listing and all it has to offer, don't hesitate to get in touch. This property won’t last long, so take advantage of this opportunity to own a slice of peaceful waterfront living today! Kevin ScharfenbergPersonal Real Estate Corporation250-457-1795Brokered by: EXP Realty*

As the real estate market evolves, investing in rental properties has become one of the most attractive options for building long-term wealth. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just getting started, owning rental properties can provide numerous advantages. From generating passive income to benefiting from tax incentives, the potential rewards are vast. Here's a closer look at why investing in rental properties in 2024 is a smart decision. 1. Steady Passive Income One of the primary benefits of owning rental properties is the potential to generate a steady stream of passive income. Unlike stocks or other investments that may fluctuate in value, rental properties can provide a consistent monthly cash flow. If managed correctly, rental income can cover property expenses, including mortgage payments, property taxes, maintenance, and still leave you with extra cash each month. In today’s market, with high demand for rental properties in growing areas like Kamloops, Ashcroft, Cache Creek, and Loon Lake, the opportunities to rent your property quickly and for a competitive rate are significant. 2. Long-Term Property Appreciation Real estate values tend to appreciate over time, meaning your property will likely increase in value as the years go by. While property appreciation rates vary depending on location, economic factors, and market trends, historically, real estate has proven to be a solid long-term investment. For example, Kamloops and surrounding areas have seen stable growth in property values due to factors such as expanding job markets, increasing population, and community development projects. This trend can be particularly beneficial for rental property owners who may eventually choose to sell their investment for a profit. 3. Tax Benefits Investing in rental properties comes with a host of tax advantages that can help reduce your overall tax liability. Some key tax benefits include: Mortgage Interest Deductions: You can deduct the interest paid on your mortgage, which is often one of the most significant expenses for property owners. Depreciation: The IRS allows rental property owners to deduct depreciation over time, which helps offset taxable income, even if your property is appreciating in value. Repairs and Maintenance: Routine repairs and upkeep of your property, such as painting, fixing plumbing issues, or landscaping, are tax-deductible. Operational Costs: Expenses like property management fees, insurance, utilities (if paid by the owner), and advertising for tenants can also be deducted from your taxes. These tax benefits can significantly boost your net income and improve the overall profitability of your rental investment. 4. Diversification of Investment Portfolio Investing in rental properties allows you to diversify your investment portfolio beyond traditional stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. Real estate investments tend to have a lower correlation with other asset classes, making them an excellent way to reduce risk. By including rental properties in your portfolio, you’re not only gaining a potentially high return on investment but also creating a hedge against inflation and market volatility. Even in periods of economic downturn, rental demand often remains strong, ensuring that rental income continues to flow. 5. Control Over Your Investment Unlike other investment vehicles, where you have little to no control over the outcome, owning rental properties gives you direct control over how your asset is managed. You can decide: Who to rent to: By screening tenants thoroughly, you can minimize risks such as late payments or property damage. Rental pricing: You control how much to charge for rent, based on market conditions and the quality of your property. Upgrades and improvements: Any updates or renovations you make to the property can help increase its value and rental income potential. This level of control provides flexibility, allowing you to take proactive steps to enhance your investment’s performance and profitability. 6. Building Equity Over Time As you pay down your mortgage, your equity in the property grows. This is one of the most powerful aspects of owning rental properties—your tenants’ rent payments help you build equity over time. Eventually, as the property appreciates and your loan balance decreases, you’ll have a valuable asset that can be leveraged for future investments, sold for a profit, or kept as a steady income source in retirement. 7. Inflation Hedge Real estate investments, particularly rental properties, are known to provide a hedge against inflation. As inflation rises, the cost of goods and services increases, which typically results in higher rental rates. Since mortgage payments are generally fixed, your cash flow increases in real terms, protecting your purchasing power in an inflationary environment. Owning rental properties in a growing market like Kamloops or Ashcroft, where rental demand is high, can further enhance this inflation protection, as landlords can adjust rents to match market conditions. 8. Ability to Leverage Your Investment With rental properties, you can often buy more property with less capital through financing. By using a mortgage to finance your investment, you only need a portion of the total property value upfront. This leverage allows you to control a valuable asset while minimizing the amount of personal capital required. The advantage of leveraging your investment is that, if the property appreciates, you’ll see a higher return on your investment than if you had paid for the property entirely in cash. 9. Potential for Retirement Income Rental properties can serve as a significant source of income during retirement. As you build a portfolio of rental properties, the cash flow generated from rent can supplement your retirement savings, providing financial security in your later years. Additionally, if you’ve paid off the mortgage, the rental income becomes nearly all profit, enhancing your retirement lifestyle. Conclusion: Why Invest in Rental Properties Now? The advantages of owning rental properties in today’s market are undeniable. From passive income and tax benefits to long-term appreciation and the opportunity for diversification, real estate investment offers a pathway to financial security and wealth-building. Markets in areas like Kamloops, Cache Creek, Ashcroft, and Loon Lake are showing promise for investors seeking properties that offer solid returns. If you're ready to explore the benefits of investing in rental properties, working with a knowledgeable real estate agent can make all the difference. Reach out to discuss your investment goals and find the perfect rental property to suit your needs. Kevin ScharfenbergPersonal Real Estate Corporation250-457-1795Brokered by: EXP Realty*

When considering purchasing a home, one critical aspect that often gets overlooked is property taxes. Understanding how property taxes work and their implications can make a significant difference in your overall budget and financial planning. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the complexities of property taxes as a prospective homebuyer. 1. What Are Property Taxes? Property taxes are taxes paid by property owners based on the assessed value of their property. These taxes are typically levied by local governments and are a primary source of funding for essential services, including public schools, law enforcement, fire protection, road maintenance, and local infrastructure. 2. How Are Property Taxes Calculated? Property taxes are calculated by multiplying the assessed value of your property by the local tax rate. Here’s a breakdown of the process: Assessment: Local tax assessors evaluate the property’s value, considering factors such as location, size, condition, and comparable properties in the area. Assessments can occur annually or biannually, depending on local regulations. Tax Rate: The tax rate is determined by the local government and can vary by municipality. It’s usually expressed in mills, where one mill equals $1 for every $1,000 of assessed value. Example: If your property is assessed at $300,000 and the tax rate is 1.5%, your annual property tax would be $4,500 ($300,000 x 0.015). 3. Why Property Taxes Matter for Homebuyers Understanding property taxes is essential for several reasons: Budgeting: Property taxes can significantly impact your monthly mortgage payments. Lenders often factor estimated property taxes into their calculations for determining your affordability. Future Expenses: Property taxes can increase over time, which may affect your long-term financial plans. Researching historical tax trends in the area can provide insight into future increases. For instance, areas experiencing rapid growth may see higher tax rates as local governments seek to expand services. Investment Value: High property taxes can impact the overall value of your home and your potential return on investment if you decide to sell in the future. Knowing the tax rates in various neighborhoods can help you make more strategic investment choices. 4. How to Research Property Taxes Before Buying Before committing to a property, it's crucial to do your homework on its property tax history: Request Tax Information: Ask the seller or their agent for the current property tax amount and historical tax rates. This information is often disclosed in the property listing or can be provided by the seller upon request. Visit Local Government Websites: Most municipalities provide access to tax records, allowing you to view the assessed value and tax history for the property. This can give you a clearer picture of what to expect in terms of future taxation. Consult with Your Real Estate Agent: A knowledgeable real estate agent can provide valuable insights into local property taxes and help you understand how they might impact your purchase. They can also advise you on potential neighborhoods where property taxes are lower. Use Online Tax Calculators: Many local governments offer online tools to estimate property taxes based on assessed values and current tax rates. These calculators can help you forecast your potential tax bill. 5. Strategies for Managing Property Taxes Once you’ve purchased your home, managing property taxes effectively is vital: Stay Informed: Keep an eye on any proposed changes to tax rates in your area, as local governments may periodically adjust them based on budgetary needs. Attend community meetings or follow local news to stay updated. Appeal Your Assessment: If you believe your property has been overvalued, you can file an appeal with your local assessor’s office. Provide evidence, such as recent sales of comparable properties, to support your claim. This can potentially lower your tax burden. Explore Exemptions: Some jurisdictions offer exemptions or reductions for certain groups, such as seniors, veterans, or low-income families. Check to see if you qualify for any exemptions that can lower your property tax bill. Additionally, some areas may have programs that offer tax deferrals or freezes for eligible homeowners. Consider Homestead Exemptions: If you live in your home as your primary residence, inquire about homestead exemptions, which can reduce your assessed value and lower your tax bill. Utilize Tax Payment Plans: If property taxes are overwhelming, some local governments offer payment plans that allow homeowners to pay taxes in installments rather than a lump sum, making it more manageable. 6. The Impact of Property Taxes on Community Development Understanding property taxes also provides insight into how local governments fund community services. Higher property taxes often correlate with improved public services, such as better schools, parks, and infrastructure, enhancing the overall quality of life for residents. 7. Conclusion Understanding property taxes is a fundamental part of the home buying process that can significantly influence your financial landscape. By being informed and proactive about property taxes, you can make more educated decisions and enjoy your new home without unwelcome financial surprises. If you’re looking to navigate the real estate market with confidence, consider working with an experienced real estate agent who can provide valuable insights and guidance throughout the process. Kevin ScharfenbergPersonal Real Estate Corporation250-457-1795Brokered by: EXP Realty* By keeping these points in mind, you’ll be better equipped to handle property taxes and make informed decisions when purchasing a home. Don't hesitate to reach out for further information or assistance on your real estate journey!