** please note Joanne's phone number is 236-599-0512, not the number advertised in the video itself**

In this installment of the "Love Where You Live" series, we had the opportunity to interview Joanne Borowsky, an expert on the West Side of Okanagan Lake. Joanne, who has been in real estate for almost ten years with Salt Fowler, shared her insights and experiences about the Okanagan West Side.

Joanne's journey into real estate was driven by her passion for helping people find their dream homes. She enjoys the process of matching individuals with the perfect property and guiding them through the buying or selling process. For her, real estate is a dynamic field with constant new opportunities and interesting developments. Plus, working in the Okanagan region allows her to appreciate the stunning properties and picturesque landscapes that surround her.

Originally from Evington, Alberta, Joanne and her husband made the move to the Okanagan twelve years ago. They were drawn to the area by its desirable climate, abundant outdoor activities, and breathtaking views. Although Joanne hadn't considered living anywhere other than Evington, the West Side of Okanagan Lake captured her heart, becoming her forever home.

When asked about her preference for the West Side, Joanne highlighted its strong sense of community. There are numerous family and senior-friendly activities that bring people together, including community dances and baseball. At the same time, the area offers a serene and park-like atmosphere, providing residents with privacy and space. Unlike densely populated neighborhoods, the West Side features larger lot sizes, allowing homeowners to enjoy their own piece of paradise. Additionally, Joanne emphasized that the West Side is an affordable lakeside community, with a diverse range of properties to suit different preferences and budgets.

One potential concern for families considering the West Side is the distance to schools. Joanne mentioned that while older kids are served by School District 22, younger children are typically bused into West Kelowna. However, some families opt to enroll their children in Vernon schools instead, which involves a slightly longer commute. Although the bus ride might be around 45-50 minutes, Joanne emphasized that the area's natural beauty and outdoor activities make up for the longer journey.

Addressing other practical considerations, Joanne discussed snow removal in the wintertime. West Side Road, being a bus route, receives regular maintenance, but heavy snowfall can affect side roads. Many residents in the area own quads with blades or hire professionals for snow removal. While the commute from the West Side to the airport takes about an hour, Joanne preferred driving through Vernon instead of West Kelowna due to traffic considerations.

One of the significant advantages of living on the West Side is the abundance of trails and outdoor recreational opportunities. Joanne mentioned popular spots like Fintry, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Terrace Mountain, where residents can explore hiking trails and admire stunning waterfalls. Additionally, the area offers several campgrounds, such as Evely, Newport Beach, Bear Creek, and Fintry Park Provincial Park, providing ample opportunities for camping enthusiasts.

When it comes to beaches, the West Side boasts various options. Killiney and Killarney have their own beaches, while areas like West Shores and Ewing's Landing have access to nearby beaches like Killiney Beach. Communities such as La Casa and Parker Cove offer resort-style living with amenities like restaurants, stores, and marinas. Joanne also mentioned the spectacular lake views that many homes on the West Side enjoy, making it an affordable place to wake up to stunning vistas every day.

Joanne concluded the interview by discussing the diversity of houses in the different areas. Each neighborhood has its unique character, with no strict pattern or style. West Shores, being a newer subdivision, tends to feature more West Coast contemporary designs with flat roofs. On the other hand, Killeney Beach showcases a mix of architectural styles, from older houses.

If you want to talk to us about Vernon real estate feel free to call us at 250-549-SALT (7258), text us at 250-309-9586 or email us at webinfo@saltfowler.com.