The HOLM Stretch | January 16th , 2026
Thanks for stopping by!
Fixed vs variable isn’t the first question anymore
Mortgage rates are starting to feel more stable, which makes it a good time to look beyond the headline rate and focus on the mortgage setup that fits your life.
A few details that can matter just as much as the rate:
- Portability: If there’s a chance you’ll move in the next few years (upsize, downsize, relocate), portability can save you a lot of hassle and potential cost.
- Prepayment options: Some mortgages let you pay down extra each year with fewer restrictions than others. That flexibility matters if your goal is to attack the principal faster.
- Built-in tools: Some lenders offer a home equity line of credit tied to the mortgage, which can be useful for renovations or planned projects.
- Predictability vs flexibility: Fixed can feel calmer because payments stay the same. Variable can offer more flexibility, but it depends on how comfortable you are with changes tied to rate decisions.
- How variable actually works: Some variable mortgages keep payments the same while amortization shifts. Others adjust payments as rates change. It’s worth knowing which one you’re looking at before you commit.
- Term length: A shorter term (like three years) can be a practical middle ground if you want to stay nimble.
If you’re thinking about buying or renewing this year, reply with two quick details: your rough timeline and whether you care more about predictable payments or maximum flexibility. We’ll help you think through the options and what tends to fit best in your situation.
Talk soon,
CHRIS, PATRIC, JULIE, JASMINE, KRISTI & BRELL
Scroll down for our regular real estate and community features.
In North Okanagan Real Estate
As of the morning of Friday January 16th there are homes showing as active listings here in North Okanagan. On January 9th there were 647.
Sales ranged from $227,500. to $935,000. Days to sell ranged from 2 to 212. 12 listings expired, 12 were cancelled.
17 prices were reduced over the last week. 1 price increased.
Scroll down for our market recap for Vernon, Armstrong, Coldstream & Enderby real estate activity in the last 7 days.
$227,500.
Low Sale
47
New Listings
$935,000.
High Sale
23
Listings Sold
JUST LISTED
Vernon BC Real Estate | 6111 Bella Vista Road
This 2 bedroom 2 bath home on .4 acre lot is in Bella Vista Vernon, BC just waiting for yo...
Armstrong BC Real Estate | 2225 Wilson Avenue
This 4 bed 3 bath home in Armstrong has a legal suite! Check it out....
Armstrong BC Real Estate | #101 2455 Bradley Drive, Armstrong, BC
2 bed 2 bath home in Armstrong's new Rosemont neighbourhood....
Armstrong BC Real Estate | 2345 Patterson Avenue #101
Explore this 3-bed, 2.5-bath half duplex by GEM Quality Homes at 2345 Patterson Avenue, Am...
Armstrong BC Real Estate | 2345 Patterson Avenue #102
Explore this 3-bed, 2.5-bath half duplex by GEM Quality Homes at 2345 Patterson Avenue, Am...
Spallumcheen BC Real Estate | 1274 Mountain View Road
Check out this 3 bedroom 2 bath Spallumcheen home on 8.95 acres of land....
ICYMI...
WHAT'S HAPPENING?
WHAT ELSE WE ARE TALKING ABOUT
If this feels like the year you want to make a move, consider this your nudge to tune in. The real story isn’t always in the headlines. It’s happening street by street, block by block. Having a local team you can call to soundboard ideas, talk timing, and cut through the noise makes the whole thing feel a lot simpler.If you’re curious, quietly planning, or just want a clearer read, we’re always happy to talk it through.
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WEEKLY REAL ESTATE REPORT
Armstrong BC Real Estate Recap
A look at Armstrong Spallumcheen Market Activity for the last 7 days.
8
New Listings
2
Listings Sold
0
Price Up
3
Price Down
Vernon BC Real Estate Recap
A look at the Vernon market activity in the last 7 days
30
New Listings
16
Listings Sold
1
Price Up
10
Price Down
Coldstream BC Real Estate Recap
A look at Coldstream market activity over the last 7 days
3
New Listings
2
Listings Sold
0
Price Up
0
Price Down
Enderby BC Real Estate Recap
A look at Enderby /Grindrod BC market activity over the last 7 days
4
New Listings
0
Listings Sold
0
Price Up
2
Price Down


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