Big White’s Freeride Days Recap

This time last week athletes from all over the world arrived at Big White Ski Resort for the first Freeride Days, an event where people come to win points that could help them move up the rankings, according to a news release from Big White Ski Resort.

This inagural event was hosted by Tom van Steenbergen and is the only FMB World Tour Gold event in North America.  The event took place in Happy Valley and offered beer gardens, music, demos, food trucks and lots of excitement!

Thursday started with The Bronze Slopestyle event, one of nine in North America. The pressure was on for the riders to win points in order to move up in the rankings. To make the stakes even higher, the top five riders got to compete in Saturday’s Big White Invitational Slopestyle. Over 5000 people showed up to watch the riders vie for the gold event on Saturday and saw Swede Emil Johansson claim the top prize.

The worlds biggest women’s Slopestyle contest was held on Friday, and Canadian Stephanie Nychka topped the podium for the event. “With few bronze-level Slopestyle courses existing in the world, the female athletes had never been given a stage this large to compete on, and it brought out the best,” Big White said in a news release.

After the Slopestyle events were wrapped up, riders showed off their talents in the official Whip Off!, where American Reed Boggs took home the win!

For more Summer Big White Events click here

Big White Real Estate Update – June

The Summer season at Big White Resort has begun and with that comes new people exploring the mountain. The summer season has allowed the Real Estate market to remain strong in the winters off season. As of today, Big White Ski Resort has 110 active listings, just 9 more active listings than June of 2018.

Average sale prices continue to gain momentum as Junes average sale price was $483,800, an increase of approximately 15k from May of this year, and, an even greater increase from June 2018 where the average sale price was just $292,500. If you like numbers, that is a 65% INCREASE! However, that doesn’t mean that all of the current listings at Big White are pricey, you can get into a mountain property for UNDER 100k; however, if your budget is more generous, there are also properties listed for up to 6.3 million.

The first half of 2019 has seen 57 sales, down from 2018s first half, but with the large increase in the average sale price, Big White Ski Resort remains a perfect opportunity for investors and vacationers alike. Buyers worldwide are still visiting Big White Ski Resort to explore the investment potential the mountain offers. With no speculation tax or foreign buyer tax, Big White Ski Resort is an ideal place for out of country investors to build their portfolio.

Big White Ski Resort and the strong real estate market make it a perfect time to purchase or sell your Big White property. Get in touch with me today for a complimentary market analysis or to receive new active listings within your criteria!

Big White open for S U M M E R!!

As of June 27th, Big White Ski Resort is open for Summer! This year brings biking, hiking and lots of new and exciting adventures to the mountain. It’s time to connect with nature, enjoy breathtaking views, and take in that fresh mountain air!

Lets start off with the new activities available for the Summer season at Big White:

Horseback Adventures – Big White teamed up with Christine & Troy McDonald & their team to bring this unforgettable experience to Big White.

Women’s Camps – Whether you’re a new rider or have years of experience, this fun fierce clinic is a great way to learn new skills with like-minded women.

Camping – Tents & RVS are welcome at Big White campgrounds! Located in Black Forest with all the necessary amenities. Pets are welcome too!!

Of course, making a huge comeback this year is BIKING and HIKING!

Hiking – Grab a trail map and head out to enjoy the amazing trails Big White mountain has to offer.

Biking – Featuring 19 world class gravity fed trails that range from rolling greens, bermed blues, and big air blacks, Bike Big White has something for every level of rider. NEW for 2019 is the Joker, Bike Big White’s premier jump trail!

Don’t forget about FREERIDE Days July 11-14 where Tom van Steenbergen hosts Pro/Gold Invitation Slopestyle

Big White Real Estate Update – May

Big White Ski Resort continues to display a steady increase in property value and investment return. Buyers from all over the globe are keeping the real estate market strong. There is no shortage of Buyers looking for investment properties, vacation homes and rental suites.

300 Moonshine Crescent

The average sale price of a single family dwelling (bare land strata) continues to rise at Big White Ski Resort. Statistics pulled from OMREB show the average sale price year to date of a single family dwelling to be $999,000. The same statistic from January to May 2018 was nearly half that amount at $525,000. Properties at Big White are raising the bar, and prices, with the quality of craftsmanship, high end details, and luxury furnishings,  there’s no wonder  the average sale price is ski rocketing for the luxury ski chalets.

In May, new listings were on par when comparing to last years numbers, as well as the total volume of real estate being sold at Big White Ski Resort. The number of sales were down slightly, but with the overall average sale price being significantly higher than the same time last year, the market is remaining strong.

Big White Ski Resort and the strong real estate market make it a perfect time to purchase or sell your Big White property. Get in touch with me today for a complimentary market analysis or to receive new active listings within your criteria!

History of Big White Part II

Continuing on from History of Big White Part I Big White Ski Resort showed continuous, steady growth from the 90’s and into the 2000’s. This second part  to the history of Big White will showcase all of the incredible amenities and features that have been constructed until mid 2000’s.

The opening of a Walk-In Medical Center at the Whitefoot Lodge took place in 1994, along with a 100 seat conference center,  Dom’s restaurant, and The Eagles and Chateau on the Ridge condominiums being constructed. The Ski Rental and Repair shop was also renovated during this time. In 1995, Big White Ski Resort invested more than $5 million in improvements to continue its growth. To accommodate its growth, a 350 car parking lot was placed between the Bullet and Black Forest and the White Crystal Inn opened offering deluxe accommodation and dining. On hill accommodations now exceeds 5,500 persons making Big White the largest on-mountain village in Western Canada!

The next few years brought the Ice Skating Rink, Snowboard Park, The Village Center Mall, The Big White Kid’s Center, Gem Lake Express Quad Chair and 1,200 acres of new terrain. Bringing the investment totals to over $75 million. Accommodations grew tremendously in 1997 and 1998 with the developments and expansions of Black Bear Lodge, The Coast Resort, Legacy Condominiums, Snowpines Estates, and The Ridge Day Lodge. Not long after in 1999, huge development milestones were hit with the completion of the Legend, Timber Ridge, Whiskey Jack, Treetops, Chateu at Big White projects. The Real Estate total for 2000 is $39.1 million!

In the early 2000’s, over $125 million was invested into the Gondola Woods Happy Valley Project. 100 acres of newly gladed terrain, summer grooming projects, and car park expansions were completed in 2001. While a year later, in 2002, a new super Olympic sized pipe, the 2nd one in Western Canada was constructed, along with the new skier bridge linking the village to Happy Valley. 2002 also saw a massive jump to nearly $50 million in real estate.

Stayed tuned for Part III

Big White Real Estate Market Update – April

Big White Ski Resorts real estate market is still going strong, even after the end of their Winter 2018/2019 season.

April of this year saw a total of 18 new listings hit the market, 44% of which were condos, down from March of last year where condos made up 63% of the new listings. Townhouses made up 27% of the new listings in April and 11% were lots.

The average sale price of lots located at Big White Ski Resort has increased dramatically over last year, the average sale price in 2018 from January-April was $181,500, this year we are seeing the average sale price at $330,667, an increase of 82%!! It’s not just lots that have increased, we are seeing an increase across the board including single family residences jumping from $633,500 to $889,667, a 40% increase!! These statistics prove exactly why Big White Ski Resort is an incredible place to invest in property.

LIVE WHERE YOU PLAY

History of Big White – Part I

Do you know the history of Big White Ski Resort? Have you ever wondered who discovered this mountain paradise and ultimately founded the resort it is today? I’ve collected some interesting facts and details while researching the history of Big White Ski Resort that I will share below in Part I of the series.

Cliff Serwa and Doug Mervyn opened the mountain in 1963 named Big White just outside of Kelowna with one Main T-bar, and it wasn’t until 1968 that the first accommodations, a few private chalets were constructed on the mountain. By the end of the 60’s there were 3 T-bars. Population in Kelowna at the time was 10,000.

The legendary Snow Ghosts were discovered in 1965 and are still a big hit with locals and tourists alike!

 

The 1970’s saw lift and trail structure growth with the ridge double chair being installed in 1971 and both the Easter Triple Chair and Powder Triple Chair installed in late 1970s. The accommodations also grew from just a couple private chalets to facilitates and condominiums.

The Schumann Family purchased Big White Ski Resort in 1985 with the goal to build a world-class ski resort. They were to focus of offering new skiing terrain, customer convenience and service while increasing capacity.

With the Schumann Family rapidly growing the resort, along came The Plaza chairlift, the first quad chairlift in BC, the lengthening of the Alpine T-bar, Cliff Platter, and the Ridge Rocket all constructed before 1990.

TUNE INTO OUR NEXT BLOG FOR PART II OF THIS SERIES!

 

Big White Real Estate Market Update – March

Big White Ski Resort’s real estate market in March saw a 55%  increase in sales from February. March’s sales were between the 94k and the 805k price point.

Listings haven’t slowed down either, with March seeing 18 new listings, bringing the current total to 112 active listings. Property price points are ranging from $104,5000 to $6.3million with a large majority between 500-700k.

Spring break at Big White was extremely busy for real estate this year. The weather was absolutely fantastic and the showings were non-stop! Investors, families, and individuals from all over the globe traveled to Big White to evaluate the real estate market and many jumped at the opportunity to make a purchase.

From luxury chalets to studio apartments, it seems that the market isn’t leaning one way or another, but offering properties of all types to cater to anyone looking to invest at Big White Ski Resort.

LIVE WHERE YOU PLAY!

Spring Cleaning Tips

It’s that time of year, although it doesn’t look or feel like it with all the snow, but it’s time to start your spring clean! The weather is set to warm up and the sun is scheduled to shine, and what better way to spend those in between type days than by airing out and organizing your home in preparation for the busy summer months ahead.

I have collected some fantastic tips for all the most-important tasks both big (patio furniture) and small (makeup), so whether you’ve got a whole weekend or just a spare moment, I have you covered!

Doormats

To refresh, hose off and air-dry mats. Vacuum indoor ones on both sides — going over the back will push trapped dirt out onto the floor where it will be easier to pick up. Trap more dirt by using two mats, one outside the door and one inside.

 

Microwave

Place large microwave-safe bowl with 1 cup of water and a chopped-up lemon, lime, or orange or several tablespoons of vinegar inside. Turn the appliance on high for several minutes or until the solution boils and the window is steamy, then let it sit to cool for 15 minutes before opening the door. Remove and wipe out the inside and outside with a sponge.

Makeup

Getting rid of expired makeup, skincare, and hair products is a quick way to declutter. Admit it, you’ve got some things in your drawers you haven’t used in over 6 months!

Kids Toys

Don’t overlook the convenience of your dishwasher. It can take on more than just plates, including your children’s (and pet’s) plastic toys. Just choose a gentle cycle and skip the heated dry.

 

Patio Furniture

Add a squirt of dish detergent to a bowl of warm water, then wipe down tables and chairs. Finish it all off with a spray of water from the garden hose.

Big White Real Estate Market Update – February

Big White Village

Big White Ski Resort’s temperature might be in the negatives lately, but the real estate market is climbing to hot hot hot! With 18 new listings becoming active in February, it brings the total current listing count at Big White to 117. That number includes condos, single family residences, and lots. 

Condos currently make up 42% of the current listings and with prices ranging from $104,500 to $1,100,000, there really is a price point for everyone.

Whether it is local families, investors, or people from out of the country buying vacation homes, condos are an incredible chance to own at Big White Ski Resort. They allow owners and occupants to live a secure, low maintenance, lifestyle while reaping the benefits of amenities and location. Condo living often boasts the “Lock and Leave” lifestyle, which for a vacation home is an opportunity for less stress, and the confidence your home is secure and taken care of while you are not there.

Condos at Big White Ski Resort are becoming more luxurious and the amenities are increasingly raising the standards. Complexes such as Stonegate Resort offer incredible building amenities like a heated indoor/outdoor pool, 18 seat movie theater, fitness center, game room, and more! To check out the sophisticated Stonegate Resort, click here.

So whether you invest, vacation, or live on the mountain,the condo lifestyle may be right for you.

LIVE WHERE YOU PLAY!