Buying Property in Harrison Hot Springs
Buying property in Harrison Hot Springs offers a unique opportunity to enjoy lakeside living while investing in one of BC’s most charming resort communities. Whether you’re drawn to the relaxed pace of living in Harrison, the appeal of a weekend getaway, or the income potential of short-term rentals, understanding the local market is key. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about real estate in Harrison from property types and zoning to taxes and property management in Harrison Hot Springs, so you can make an informed and confident purchase.
If you’re serious about buying property in Harrison Hot Springs, we highly recommend experiencing the town for yourself first since there’s no better way to fall in love with it. Reach out to our team and book a stay at one of our vacation rentals in Harrison Hot Springs. Get a true feel for the community, the pace, and the potential.
If you’re planning to buy property in Harrison Hot Springs and are considering using it as a short-term rental, Lifty Life can help. We’re a local vacation rental management company that specializes in setting up, launching, and managing Airbnb-style properties in the area.
We Can Help
“We’d love the opportunity to help you get your vacation rental in Harrison Hot Springs up and running. Whether it’s your first property or part of a growing portfolio, we’re here to make it easy and worry-free.”
Why Buy in Harrison Hot Springs?
- Lakeside lifestyle
Enjoy panoramic views, access to Harrison Lake, and a laid-back community known for its natural hot springs, beach, and walking trails. - Short-term rental potential
Tourism is strong, especially in summer, making it an ideal location for vacation rentals that can generate excellent returns. - Growing community
New developments like Aquila are attracting buyers who want modern living with walkable access to town and the lakefront. - Only 90 minutes from Vancouver
A quick drive from the Lower Mainland makes it perfect for weekend getaways or a second home that feels worlds away.
Types of Properties Available
- Condominiums
Modern condos in buildings like Oasis or Aquila offer amenities, low maintenance, and short-term rental zoning great for investors. - Single-family homes
Detached homes offer more space and privacy, often with yards and room for future expansion or suites. - Cabins & cottages
Rustic yet cozy, these properties are popular with vacationers and can offer unique charm for Airbnb stays. - Vacant land
Buy and build your dream retreat, but be aware of zoning, utility connections, and development costs.
Zoning & Short-Term Rental Rules
- Short-term rentals are regulated by the Village of Harrison Hot Springs
You’ll need to ensure the property complies with local bylaws if you plan to operate a vacation rental. - Ensure the property is zoned and licensed for nightly rentals if investing
Not all homes are eligible—work with your realtor or property manager to confirm legal usage. Generally speaking, if it is commercially zoned you should be able to operate, but Residential zoning does NOT allow for short term rentals.
New Developments in Harrison Hot Springs
- Oasis (Completed 2024)
- A boutique 28‑unit luxury condo building at 470 Esplanade Avenue offers sleek, modern finishes designed for ease of short‑term rental.
- Oasis opened in January 2024 and is now fully sold out, however, resale units may occasionally appear, all located within an STR‑friendly strata that permits short‑term hosting
- Aqua Shores (Largest New Development)
- With 56–75 upscale units spread across a 7‑storey building at 120 Esplanade Avenue, Aqua Shores is the largest new waterfront condo community in town.
- It features luxurious amenities like a gym, pool, sauna, EV‑charging, high ceilings, and concrete construction.
- However, due to strata bylaws, short‑term rentals are prohibited, making it ideal for full‑time living or stable long‑term leasing
- Aquila (Currently in Pre‑Sale) — Read our Aquila Buyers Guide
- Aquila is the newest beachfront boutique development with 38 units directly on the lakefront.
- Crucially, Aquila allows short‑term rentals, making it one of only a few brand new projects in town aligned with STR zoning.
- It blends modern design with the lifestyle perks of beachfront living, making it a strong option for buyers seeking rental flexibility.
- Harrison on the Lake Resort (Older, Budget-Friendly Development)
- Completed & well-established: This classic 1980s-era condo development at 450 Esplanade Avenue sits just steps from the beach and heart of the village, offering prime lakeside access.
- Short-term rentals allowed: Built in a commercial zone and explicitly permitted by strata bylaws, it’s one of the few affordable multi-unit options where short-term rental is legal.
- Budget-friendly appeal: While not brand new, units here often sell at a lower price point than the newer builds making it ideal for buyers seeking STR capability without a high upfront cost.
- Convenient location: Walking distance to hot springs, restaurants, and village amenities, this development delivers great value for both personal use and rental convenience.
| Development | Year / Status | Units | STR Allowed | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oasis | Completed 2024 | ~28 | ✅ Yes | Sleek finishings, fully sold-out, STR-permitted; only available via resale |
| Aqua Shores | Completed 2024 | 56–75 | ❌ No | Luxury amenities, largest waterfront building, but no STR allowed |
| Aquila | Pre‑sale now | 38 | ✅ Yes | Beachfront boutique, modern build, STR-friendly lifestyle option |
| Harrison on the Lake | 1980s | 32 | ✅ Yes | Older, affordable, prime lakeside location with legal STR zoning |
Thinking about buying a short term rental in Harrison? Let Lifty Life, Harrison Hot Springs’ top Airbnb management company, handle everything for you from listing, pricing, guest support, and cleaning.
We Can Help
“We’d love the opportunity to help you get your vacation rental in Harrison Hot Springs up and running. Whether it’s your first property or part of a growing portfolio, we’re here to make it easy and worry-free.”
Taxes & Fees
- GST (5%) may apply on new builds or short-term rental properties
New developments or homes used primarily as income-generating rentals often trigger GST. - Property Transfer Tax (PTT)
Most buyers will pay 1–2% of the purchase price unless they qualify for exemptions (e.g. first-time buyers). - Annual property taxes
These are paid to the Village of Harrison Hot Springs and vary by property value and zoning. - Utility costs
Expect monthly charges for electricity (BC Hydro), gas (Fortis BC), and municipal water/sewer services.
Work with Local Experts & Experience It
- Use a local realtor familiar with zoning and market trends
They’ll help you avoid pitfalls and identify properties that meet your lifestyle or investment goals. - Hire a real estate lawyer
A local legal expert can review contracts, titles, and zoning designations to protect your purchase. - Talk to a vacation rental manager (like Lifty Life)
We help buyers assess income potential, set up listings, and manage everything from check-in to cleaning. - Stay a few nights to get a feel for the area
Booking a vacation rental before buying lets you test the lifestyle and explore different neighborhoods firsthand.
