Why Princeton?
The allure of Princeton has only grown stronger over the past twelve months. A strong multi layered industry anchors Princeton’s economy offering stable employment. We’ve seen a diverse mix of buyers - from young families fleeing city prices to retirees seeking the quiet life, and investors looking for cashflow positive properties.The Lifestyle Advantage: Living in Princeton means embracing a slower, richer pace of life. Nestled where the Tulameen and Similkameen rivers meet, residents have world-class fishing, kayaking, and hiking right outside their doors. The extensive trail networks for ATVing and snowmobiling make it an outdoor enthusiast's paradise year-round. In 2025, the strong sense of community and the revitalized downtown core continued to be major draws for those seeking a genuine small-town experience without sacrificing essential amenities.
The Investment Case: For investors, Princeton remains a beacon of opportunity in B.C. Compared to the saturated markets of the Okanagan and the Lower Mainland, Princeton offers a lower barrier to entry with significant upside potential. The demand for high-quality long-term rentals remains high, and the town's growing reputation as a recreational hub has bolstered property values in the surrounding countryside.
The 2025 Notable Sales Showcase
This year’s market was incredibly varied. We saw movement across the entire spectrum, from ultra-affordable starter projects to large countryside acreages.Here is a look at the properties that defined the Princeton market in 2025.
1. The Luxury Benchmark: Most Expensive Sale
1084 Old Hedley Rd ($1,850,000)
This sale set the tone for the high end of the market early in the year. Properties along the Old Hedley Road corridor are known for their stunning river valley views and rugged mountains, and this sale proved that luxury buyers see immense value in the area. This transaction demonstrates that significant capital is moving into the region, seeking premium, lifestyle-oriented estates.2. The Gateway Opportunity: Most Affordable Home
88 Tapton Ave ($150,000)
In an era where "affordable housing" feels like a myth in B.C., Princeton still offers opportunities. This sale at just $150,000 represents the entry point into homeownership. While likely a project home requiring sweat equity, it highlights that it is still possible to get your foot on the property ladder here without a massive mortgage.
3. The Rural Dream: Cutest Hobby Ranch
The demand for manageably sized acreages suitable for horses, gardens, and a slice of self-sufficiency was huge in 2025. This property captured hearts with its balance of rustic charm and fertile land, proving that the dream of a hobby farm is worth nearly a million dollars in today's market.
4. The Adventure Basecamp: Best Recreation Property
Princeton’s identity is tied to recreation, and this sale emphasizes the value buyers place on proximity to adventure. Properties like this one located near Manning Park - offering easy access to backcountry trails, lakes, and winter sports - are being snapped up by those looking for the ultimate weekend escape or seasonal headquarters.
5. The Retirement Haven: Best Single-Level Home
150 Deerview Cres ($720,000)
With an aging demographic across the province, high-quality ranchers and bungalows are at a premium. This sale on Deerview Crescent highlights the strong demand for accessible, low-maintenance living in desirable neighbourhoods. A well-maintained, single-level home is perhaps the most liquid asset in the current Princeton market.
6. The Market Starter: Best for First-Time Buyers
482 Similkameen Ave ($450,000)
This is the sweet spot for young families and couples buying their first home. At $450,000, this sale on Similkameen Avenue represents a mortgage that is competitive with, or even cheaper than, renting in larger cities. It proves that the "Canadian Dream" of owning a detached home in a good community is still attainable in Princeton.
This is the sweet spot for young families and couples buying their first home. At $450,000, this sale on Similkameen Avenue represents a mortgage that is competitive with, or even cheaper than, renting in larger cities. It proves that the "Canadian Dream" of owning a detached home in a good community is still attainable in Princeton.
7. Room to Breathe: Best Countryside Home
1035 Hwy 5a ($970,000)
The "Yellowstone effect" is alive and well. Rounding out our list is this stunning example of countryside living just outside of town. Buyers in 2025 were willing to pay a premium for space and privacy, without being too far from services. This near-million-dollar sale reinforces the strength of the rural residential market surrounding the town centre.
The "Yellowstone effect" is alive and well. Rounding out our list is this stunning example of countryside living just outside of town. Buyers in 2025 were willing to pay a premium for space and privacy, without being too far from services. This near-million-dollar sale reinforces the strength of the rural residential market surrounding the town centre.
Looking Ahead to 2026
If 2025 taught us anything, it’s that Princeton has something for everyone. The spread between the $150,000 fixer-upper and the $1.85 million estate shows a healthy, diverse real estate ecosystem. As we head into 2026, we anticipate continued interest from those looking to cash out of high-density areas and reinvest in the lifestyle that the Similkameen Valley offers.Are you looking to make a move in the new year? Whether you are buying your first home or selling a recreational property, contact Lee today to navigate the Princeton market.
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