Why I Left the City and Found Home in a Small Town

Let me tell you a little story.

In 2019, I made a move that completely changed my life, I left the big city behind and settled in small town Oliver, BC.  

At the time, I only knew two people in the area, and I didn’t have a huge plan or a big safety net. But I knew I needed a reset. I wanted space to breathe, a stronger sense of community, and a better quality of life.

And that’s exactly what I found here in the South Okanagan.

The Big City Grind

There’s something exciting about city life. the energy, the options, the convenience. But over time, that buzz can start to feel more like background noise. The traffic, the long lineups, the cost of everything, it all adds up.

Maybe you’ve started wondering what life would feel like if it slowed down just a little. I’d been running my real estate business for years, helping people buy and sell homes and I felt like I was on a hamster wheel. I was ready for a lifestyle change. I wanted something quieter, more grounded and I found it in Oliver.

Why Oliver?

Oliver is a gem, plain and simple. Tucked in the heart of the South Okanagan, it’s surrounded by vineyards, rolling hills, and some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet. It’s known as the Wine Capital of Canada, but it’s not just about wine. It’s about community, lifestyle, and waking up every day feeling like you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be. 

What I love most about Oliver is the balance, there’s enough going on to keep life interesting, but it’s not overwhelming. You have access to everything you need, plus endless opportunities to slow down and enjoy your days. 

The weather is phenomenal, the views are incredible, and the people are real. It’s not just a slower lifestyle, it’s a more connected one. 

From Starting Over to Settling In

Starting over in a new town wasn’t easy. I had to rebuild my business from the ground up. I had to prove myself in a place where no one really knew who I was. But it turns out, that challenge was exactly what I needed. Today, I get to help others do what I did, make a smart move to a better life.

Moving is a big decision, no matter where you're going. It’s not just about the house or the price, it’s about lifestyle, goals, and what really matters to you. That’s why I do what I do: to help people make smart, thoughtful moves that fit their next chapter.

If you're thinking about making the move, whether it’s downsizing, retiring, or just starting fresh I’d love to help you figure it out. No pressure. No sales pitch. Just real talk from someone who’s done it, lives it, and believes in it.

Let’s find out if small-town life in the South Okanagan is what you’ve been looking for.

Because this isn’t about giving something up. It’s about gaining something better.

Jeffrey Sefton
Real Estate Solutions for Life's Next Chapter
okanaganrealestatesearch.com