Realtors are now required to obtain more information from Buyers and Sellers when buying and selling property. These new guidelines come from the government's Fintrac division, aimed at reducing money laundering and proceeds of crime through buying and selling real estate. As of June 23rd, 2008, when you buy or sell a home you will need to provide your realtor with copies of your personal identification information such as drivers license, health care card, etc.

The government has announced that as of October they will no longer be insuring zero down mortgages or mortgage terms longer that 35 years. The lowest downpayment allowable will be 5%. This comes as no surprise as Canadian officials are trying to prevent a mortgage crisis like the one that is overwhelming the U.S .

So what does this mean for the South Okanagan Market?

Be the 1st to own one of these beautiful town houses, the 1st of their kind in Oliver, brought to you by Ellcar Ventures. Modern, functional 3 level homes with spacious 1600sf. floor plan featuring open design living area, u-shaped kitchen with island, private backyard and much more starting at $300,000.

Oliver and surrounding areas offer beautiful weather, unique landscape and unmatched attractions. Swim in the lake in the summer and take in the many sandy beaches. Golf at one of the 7 Championship golf courses open 10 months of the year. Get away from it all in the winter at Mt. Baldy Family ski area, an unpretentious ski experience located only 40 minutes from Oliver or Osoyoos. The mountain also features cross country ski trails, snowshoe trails, Frisbee golf and snowmobile areas.

Oliver is home to over 16 wineries located within a 20-kilometer stretch along the valley and is fast becoming recognized by vintners worldwide. The Okanagan is blessed with over 81 wineries. The wine culture is such a large part of life in the area that there is now a wine festival for every season. Oliver hosts it's own wine Festival, "Festival of the grape", in October, attracting over 2,000 enthusiast with attendance growing each year. What else could be better than ending your day in Okanagan paradise with a glass of local wine.