Sean Phillips, REALTOR® · Coldwell Banker Executives Realty · Vernon, BC

Strand guide

Lock-and-Leave Living: Why Snowbirds Choose Okanagan Condos

By Sean Phillips, REALTOR®, Strand resident ·

Short answer: A lock-and-leave condo lets you close the door and travel without worrying about snow, yard work or exterior maintenance, because the strata handles them. That's why snowbirds and part-time residents love Okanagan waterfront condos: summers on the lake, winters somewhere warm, and a secure, well-maintained home waiting when they return.

What makes a condo lock-and-leave?

At The Strand Lakeside, the strata fee covers natural gas, water, sewer, garbage, snow removal, landscaping and the operating costs of the beach, pool and hot tub. See what's included.

Before you leave for the winter

  1. Set the heat to a safe minimum.
  2. Shut off water to appliances where recommended, and check under sinks.
  3. Unplug non-essential electronics.
  4. Arrange for someone to check your unit regularly, as many insurers require for long absences.
  5. Update your contact details with property management.
  6. Remove food and take out garbage.

Insurance

Tell your insurer how long you'll be away. Many policies have conditions for vacant or unoccupied homes, and you'll want coverage for the strata's water damage deductible. Read how strata deductibles work.

A note on the speculation tax

If your Vernon condo is your principal residence, you're generally exempt from BC's speculation and vacancy tax, even if you winter elsewhere. You still need to file the annual declaration.

Frequently asked questions

What is a lock-and-leave condo?

It's a home you can leave for weeks or months without worrying about maintenance, because the strata looks after snow removal, landscaping, exterior upkeep and security.

Should someone check my condo while I'm away?

Yes. Regular checks help catch problems early, and many insurance policies require them during long absences.

Do snowbirds pay BC's speculation tax?

Generally not, if the condo is their principal residence. All owners in taxable areas like Vernon must still file an annual declaration.

More guides to Okanagan Landing and The Strand

Have a question about waterfront living in Vernon?

I'm Sean Phillips, a REALTOR® with Coldwell Banker Executives Realty. I live at The Strand in Okanagan Landing and specialise in Vernon-area waterfront condos. For current listings and recent sales, visit 7343okanaganlanding.ca.

Text Sean: 778-363-0542

Call or text Sarah, my 24/7 info line: 604-227-4810

This article is general information as of fall 2026, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules, fees and conditions change, so always confirm details with the appropriate professional or authority before making a decision.

General information only, not legal, tax or financial advice. Confirm details for your situation with the appropriate professional.

Keep reading

BC Property Transfer Tax: What Condo Buyers Need to KnowHow BC property transfer tax works when you buy a condo: current rates, a worked example, first-time buyer and new-home exemptions, and when it's paid.What Is a Form B Information Certificate in BC?The Form B Information Certificate is one of the most important documents when buying a BC condo. Here's what it shows and the red flags to look for.What Is a Strata Depreciation Report in BC and Why Does It Matter?What a strata depreciation report is, what changed in BC's rules, how often stratas need one, and what condo buyers should look for before they buy.

Questions about The Strand?

Sean Phillips lives at The Strand and is a real estate agent with Coldwell Banker Executives Realty. Text him any time, or call Sarah, his AI assistant, 24/7 for building and area info.

Text Sean 778-363-0542Call Sarah 604-227-4810