Investment Properties

Big White Real Estate Shines at LA Ski Dazzle — Our Second Year & Bigger Than Ever

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Our return to the LA Ski Dazzle Convention at the LA Convention Centre was nothing short of incredible. From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere was buzzing — thousands of excited skiers, snowboarders, families, and industry enthusiasts pouring through the doors, ready to dive into all things winter. The energy was infectious. Every aisle was lined with fun, dynamic vendors showcasing everything from gear and gadgets to trips, experiences, and mountain culture. Sharing the space with such a wide mix of passionate people made it feel less like a trade show and more like a full winter festival.

Sharing Big White With Thousands

For us, the highlight was the opportunity to represent Big White and share what makes our resort so unique. Over three full days, we had nonstop conversations about the mountain, the village, and — of course — the incredible real estate opportunities available. People were genuinely intrigued, many hearing about Big White for the first time, and the response was overwhelmingly positive.

The USD Advantage That Caught Everyone’s Attention

The moment we started talking numbers, you could see everyone lean in. Explaining how strong the USD is against the CAD right now opened a lot of eyes — and the excitement only grew when we shared that Big White is exempt from foreign buyer bans and additional taxes that impact other regions. That combination sparked so many productive, enthusiastic discussions. It was clear that buyers are not just interested in a ski property; they’re interested in value, stability, and lifestyle — all of which Big White delivers effortlessly.

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Building Connections That Matter

We met families dreaming of a cozy slopeside getaway, investors curious about rental potential, and long-time skiers who suddenly realized owning at a Canadian resort might actually be within reach. These conversations are exactly why we believe so strongly in returning to Ski Dazzle each year. It’s exposure to a massive, highly engaged audience who truly appreciates what we offer.

A Fun, Energizing, and Invaluable Trip

Beyond the business side, it was simply a fun, energizing few days. Sharing space with creative vendors, swapping stories with fellow ski lovers, and feeling the buzz of thousands of people who love the mountains as much as we do reminded us why we do this — big energy creates big opportunities.

We walked away with new connections, fresh excitement for the season, and a renewed appreciation for how special Big White really is. This trip was incredibly valuable in spreading awareness — not only about the resort itself, but about the ease and opportunity of owning property here.

And yes… we’re already counting down the days until we return next year!

Big White Real Estate: Market Strength and Lifestyle Appeal as We Head Into Fall

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As summer at Big White Ski Resort winds down, the shift toward cooler days and the anticipation of winter begins. For me, this is always one of the most exciting times of the year—not just because of what’s happening on the mountain, but because of what it means for real estate. The market is moving, buyer confidence is back, and fall is a fantastic window of opportunity for both buyers and sellers.

A Strong Summer Market

From June through mid-August, Big White recorded 16 sales—right on par with last summer’s numbers in 2024. For a seasonal market like ours, that kind of consistency is a great sign. It tells us that demand for Big White properties isn’t slowing down, and that people continue to see long-term value in owning here.

I worked with a range of buyers this summer: families who want a mountain getaway, investors looking for rental income, and even buyers who fell in love with Big White after a single visit. That’s the beauty of this market—it attracts people for so many different reasons, but the common thread is always the lifestyle.

Why Fall is the Perfect Time to Buy or Sell

Fall at Big White often flies under the radar, but it’s actually one of the best times of year for real estate.

  • Vacancy and Access: Most units are sitting empty right now, which makes showings easier and possession timelines quicker.

  • Ready for Winter: Buyers who purchase in the fall can take possession before opening day and enjoy a full ski season.

  • Sellers’ Advantage: Listing now means less competition before winter inventory increases. Buyers are motivated to secure something in time for the season, which can lead to strong activity.

 Curious what’s currently available? Explore my latest Big White listings here.

The Lifestyle That Sells Itself

Of course, the numbers only tell part of the story. What really makes people decide to buy at Big White is the lifestyle. I’ve seen it firsthand—families who come for a week and leave determined to find their own spot on the mountain.

Here’s just a glimpse of what life looks like up here:

  • Ski-in/Ski-out Living: No shuttles, no long walks—just click in and go. Most residences at Big White offer true ski-in/ski-out access.

  • Weekly Events: From après-ski gatherings to holiday celebrations, there’s always something happening in the village.

  • Canada’s Highest Outdoor Skating Rink: A magical spot for families, surrounded by alpine views.

  • Night Skiing: One of the largest night skiing areas in Western Canada—there’s nothing quite like carving turns under the stars.

  • Dining & Après: Incredible restaurants, pubs, and lounges that give the village a vibrant, welcoming energy.

  • World-Class Ski School: Whether it’s kids learning for the first time or adults fine-tuning their skills, the ski school is a huge draw.

Looking Ahead to Winter

This winter is shaping up to be busy, with plenty of events and activities already planned. Every year, thousands of visitors experience Big White for the first time—and many of them leave with more than just memories. They fall in love with the mountain lifestyle, and quite a few end up deciding to buy. That steady flow of new interest is one of the things that keeps our market strong year after year.

Final Thoughts

This summer showed us that Big White real estate remains steady and in demand, and as we move into fall, opportunities are only going to grow. With 16 sales logged already this summer, buyer confidence building, and the excitement of winter ahead, now is the perfect time to make your move—whether that means listing your property or starting the search for your own Big White getaway.

 View my current Big White listings or reach out anytime if you’d like to talk about opportunities before the snow starts falling

Building Your Dream Ski Chalet at Big White Ski Resort: With Weninger Construction & Design Ltd.

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When it comes to designing and building the perfect ski chalet, experience, vision, and attention to detail are essential. At Big White Ski Resort, Weninger Construction & Design Ltd., led by Marlin Weninger, has been at the forefront of custom homebuilding for decades. With over 36 years of expertise, Marlin and his team specialize in turning dreams into reality—crafting chalets that blend luxury, functionality, and the breathtaking beauty of the Okanagan mountains.

A Legacy of Craftsmanship

Marlin’s journey in the construction industry began early. At 15, he was mentored as a draftsman, gaining valuable skills in house design. By 1989, he founded Weninger Construction as a family business, incorporating it in 1991. Over the years, three generations of Weningers have been involved, creating a legacy of dedication and craftsmanship.

Marlin reflects, “Every project that I designed and built has been very satisfying to see completed. But what stands out most is the ability to collaborate with clients to bring their unique visions to life.”

Experience at Big White Ski Resort

The company’s history at Big White began in 1991 with the construction of the “Hahnenkamm Chalet” in Snowpine Estates. Since then, Weninger Construction has completed over 30 projects at the resort, including custom chalets, multi-unit buildings, and commercial spaces like the Black Forest Day Lodge.

Big White’s unique environment presents challenges, such as long winters that limit exterior work. However, Weninger Construction’s expertise ensures projects are completed efficiently without compromising quality. “Typically, we can complete a custom home in under a year, though larger, more complex builds can take up to two years,” Marlin explains.

Tailored Designs for Every Client

Every chalet at Big White is as unique as its owner. Whether it’s a rustic retreat featuring natural wood details or a sleek, modern smart home with cutting-edge features, Weninger Construction excels at creating custom designs.

The process starts with a 3D digital model, allowing clients to visualize their dream home and make adjustments before construction begins. “We specialize in design-builds, working closely with clients to produce exactly what they want,” says Marlin.

Tips for Building Your Dream Chalet

Marlin offers valuable advice for those considering a custom build at Big White:

  1. Plan Ahead: Take time to finalize the design and ensure it meets your long-term needs.
    “A 3D model is an invaluable tool for planning purposes,” he notes.
  2. Budget Wisely: Leave room for unforeseen expenses or special features you might want to add.
    “After all, this is your dream home—make it special and make it yours.”
  3. Choose the Right Team: Hiring experienced and ethical builders is crucial.
    “Don’t just pick the best talker or the lowest price. A good builder and their team will truly care about the quality of the build,” Marlin advises.

Emerging Trends in 2025

The trend toward multi-generational living is shaping the design of many homes at Big White. Features like elevators, stair lifts, and accessible bathrooms are being incorporated to ensure long-term usability. “We’re planning for future needs, either by installing these elements now or preparing the structure for easy updates later,” says Marlin.

Why Choose Weninger Construction?

With a proven track record, a passion for craftsmanship, and a deep understanding of Big White’s unique challenges, Weninger Construction is the go-to builder for ski chalets in the region. Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy retreat or a modern mountain home, Marlin and his team are dedicated to delivering exceptional results.

Ready to start your dream chalet? Contact Weninger Construction & Design Ltd. to bring your vision to life.

Big White Summer Real Estate Market Update: 2024

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As the summer season winds down at Big White, it’s time to take a closer look at how the real estate market has performed over the past few months. The summer period is traditionally slower compared to the winter, but that doesn’t mean there hasn’t been significant activity. In fact, the market has remained relatively stable, showing promise as we approach the busy winter season.

Summer Sales: 2024 vs. 2023

From June 2024 through the end of August, there were 17 sales at Big White Ski Resort. This is fairly on par with last year’s numbers, which saw 19 sales during the same time period. While the volume of sales remains consistent, it is worth noting the range of properties that have exchanged hands. This summer saw sales ranging from a $165,000 studio unit to a $1,730,000 chalet. The diversity of options available ensures that both entry-level buyers and luxury home seekers have opportunities to invest in this vibrant resort.

The average sale price for the past four months was $604,558 CAD, showcasing a robust market where properties of varying sizes and price points are finding buyers. Compared to last year, the overall market sentiment remains optimistic, with demand steady despite minor fluctuations in the number of transactions.

Total Sales Value: Year to Date

As of September 2024, Big White has seen a total of $38,776,499 in real estate sales. While slightly below last year’s $43,995,000 figure for the same period, this year’s numbers demonstrate a strong performance given the general economic conditions affecting real estate markets globally. The nearly $5 million gap could be attributed to minor market slowdowns or timing differences in high-end property sales, but overall, Big White’s real estate market has proven to be resilient.

Days on Market: A Subtle Shift

One noticeable shift in the market this summer is the increase in the average days on market (DOM) for properties. Compared to last year, the average DOM has increased by 19%. This means that while properties are still selling, they are taking slightly longer to find the right buyers.

This could be attributed to several factors, including a shift in buyer behavior, the range of available inventory, or the seasonal nature of Big White’s market. While the winter season brings a flood of interest from those eager to secure a ski-in/ski-out property, the summer often sees a more relaxed pace. Buyers are likely taking their time, knowing that the high season is just around the corner.

Looking Ahead: Winter Market Opportunities

As we head into the upcoming winter season, we’re seeing an uptick in both new properties hitting the market and increased interest from potential buyers. Showings have picked up as people prepare for the ski season, which is traditionally the busiest time for real estate at Big White.

For buyers ready to make their move, now is an ideal time to take action. Many properties are currently vacant, offering immediate possession opportunities before the snow hits and the resort comes alive. Buying in the quieter summer months means less competition, and the chance to settle into a new home before the winter season begins in full swing.

Why Now is a Great Time to Buy

While summer may be slower in terms of transactions, it is the perfect time for serious buyers to take advantage of the market. Properties are more likely to be vacant and priced competitively, as sellers prepare for the increased demand of the winter season. If you’re looking for a property at Big White, acting now allows you to get ahead of the competition and secure a home that’s move-in ready before the snow starts to fall.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy condo, a family-friendly townhouse, or a luxury chalet, Big White continues to offer a wide range of properties for all kinds of buyers. With the winter season fast approaching, now is the perfect time to explore your options and invest in one of Canada’s most beloved ski resorts.

Get your early bird season passes now for Big White Ski Resort here.

Top 5 Most Wanted Features in a Big White Ski Resort Property

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While every buyer is searching for something with their certain needs and wants, I am here to share the 5 most wanted features in a Big White Ski Resort property that are most common for buyers looking at purchasing property at the resort. Maybe a buyer is looking to check off all five of these boxes, or maybe just one, but these are the features that I have found to be the most wanted when working with both buyers and sellers at the resort.

TOP 5 MOST WANTED FEATURES IN A BIG WHITE SKI RESORT PROPERTY

  1. Ski-in/Ski Out Access

Ski-in/ski-out access is a highly sought after feature. Luckily, unlike other ski resorts like Whistler, Big White offers arguably the best ski-in/ski-out accessibility from nearly every property at the resort. Whether its right outside the door or a short walk to the closest run, ski-in/ski-out access is an attainable feature no matter where on the mountain you are.

  1. Well Run Strata

Having a predictable and proactive strata is another very important and wanted feature for those buyers looking to purchase a condo. As the majority of buyers are not living on the hill, having a well-run strata can ease the minds of buyers that are not always in the unit. With a well-run strata you can trust, a buyer can feel comfortable, and dependent that not only their unit will be looked after but the building itself maintained and functioning at the level they desire. Each building is different in how their strata runs so it is very important to work with a knowledgeable agent and of course review all strata documents.

  1. Rental Income Potential

As previously stated, many buyers are not living on the hill and often look for rental income potential to offset costs when they are not using the property for personal use. Some units provide a steady stream of revenue and others can be limited due to many factors. Revenue potential varies depending on the type of unit, location, and amenities it offers. Many agents will provide past revenue numbers and a revenue forecast if available and applicable.

  1. Location

This feature is completely dependant on each specific buyer but location is very important. Some buyers want to be right in the Village with amenities and activities just a few steps away, while others are looking for a more tranquil area. Happy Valley is a great location and highly sought after as it offers a close proximity to adventures such as ice skating, tubing, and more with also providing direct access to the Village from Lara’s Gondola.

  1. View

Admittedly, this feature is not as important to some as say, ski-in/ski-out access, however many buyers are looking for a property that showcases the stunning Monashee Mountains. Whether it’s from a gorgeous chalet in Feathertop Estates or a condo in the Village centre, views can be a massive selling feature. With the gorgeous sunrises and sunsets that the resort is blessed with, its no wonder views make the top 5 most wanted features in a Big White Ski Resort property.

With the news of the foreign buyer ban being extended, and the resort being exempt from the short term rental ban, Big White Ski Resort is a superb investment for global and local clientele.

What’s Happening at Big White Ski Resort

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As we near the opening day, which is scheduled for November 23, 2023, there is lots happening at Big White Ski Resort. Each season the resort grows, replaces, and revamps many areas to improve hospitality, housing, and operations. According to the Regional District, over $100 million dollars in construction and maintenance is projected for the resort.

What’s Happening at Big White Ski Resort

What's happening at Big White Ski ResortDevelopments – The luxurious Feathertop Estates development is booming. There is a ton of construction happening in the area with new builds popping up all over the development. Foundations have been poured and constructed over the summer months, framing is taking place, and many chalets are in the lockup stage. This is exciting as we are starting to see them come together and ready for the finishing touches.

More new developments are also taking place in Black Forest, Porcupine, Sundance, and Monashee Ridge. They are coming along nicely and will be a great addition to the resort once complete.

Some of the complex buildings are also getting facelifts including Snow Ghost Inn. This is great to see updates happening around the resort and not just new construction.

You may notice a large pile of sand at the bottom of Big White Road that will be used for the roads. Speaking of transportation, some more exciting developmental news is that the resort has commenced building the first phase of the $600,000 upper parking lot at Black Forest. This parking lot will hold an additional 250 vehicles!

Tourism/Operations – Snow cats are a huge part of the resorts success and the resort has brought in some new ones and have been working to maintain the current ones so everything is ready to go once the snow starts to fly. There is a new restaurant in the works that will be ready for opening day. A welcomed addition to the Village, along with new electronic signs throughout the resort. Boxes and boxes currently fill the Village Centre as a new central reservations team prepares for the season.

It’s very exciting to see all of these preparations come together as we are expected to have an awesome Winter 2023/24 season.

What That Means for Real Estate

Both showings and deals have picked up immensely over the past few weeks. As normal, the off season slows down but now we are seeing a steady increase. Buyers, nationally and internationally are starting to get serious about putting in offers and many are arriving at the resort prior to opening day to secure their perfect ski home in time for the Winter season.

An abundance of showings over the past weekend has brought in multiple offers on a variety of styles of homes from 1 bedroom units at The Inn at Big White to multi-million dollar chalets with unbelievable views.

If you have any questions or would like to see where your property would be in today’s market at the resort, feel free to reach out anytime! Always reachable by phone 1-778-231-0308 or email joan.wolf@sothebysrealty.ca

Increased Activity at Big White and in the Okanagan

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We are seeing an increased amount of activity at Big White Ski Resort and within the Okanagan region within that last few weeks. The trend of the slower summer season was present, however, with summer coming to an end in the next few weeks, many buyers are keen to find a home.

Big White Ski Resort

Over 11 million dollars in sales have happened at Big White since July, a nice increase from the same time period last year where sales topped at 7 million. The average days to sell has however increased from 54 to 65 days because we are still seeing slower sales than average.

Closing day for the Summer season is September 4th. Meaning if you are wanting to get a few more mountain bike rides in, or finally get to the hike you only have a few weeks left. Winter ski season will be here before we know it and if this season is anything like last year we should except to see a large number of visitors, sales, and fun! Get to know everything Big White Summer here!

Some more exciting news is that Big White just introduced a state of the art car charging stations in Happy Valley! This is great to see for the growth of the resort. Read more about it here.

Okanagan

Since the beginning of August, 200 sales have happened within the Central Okanagan region including single family homes, condos, and townhomes. The average sale price within the same time period is 826,475. The average sale price for the month of August in 2022 was $854,854 so we seem to be fairly consistent with last year.

Although the smoke seems to have settled in hopefully it clears, maybe see a little rain, and we can soak in the remainder of August sun. The Okanagan has been blessed with a great tourist season thus far and many visitors are becoming more keen on purchasing real estate here in the Okanagan.

To be in the know, and receive up to date listings and information about the market, contact me here to get set-up!

Big White’s Summer season is here

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The big day is here, Big White’s Summer season starts tomorrow, June 29th. After a short shoulder season, the resort has cleaned up, geared up, and is set up for the upcoming summer season. With huge events scheduled, more biking opportunities than ever, and an entire mountain to explore while hiking it’s no wonder the summers at Big White have become a very popular summer vacation destination.

There is more than biking and hiking at the resort too. You can play a round of 9 holes at the disc golf course (which is free!), attend the Craft & Country Beer & Music Mountain Festival, or enjoy the Summer Music Series Saturdays in the Village. And that is just the beginning, you can check out all of the events here.

Along with the shoulder season usually comes a slower real estate market and this year was no exception. Although we did see multiple sales there was a noticeable drop in showings and offers. That is no surprise with the resort being closed and traffic to the much less than the busy winter season. Another reason for some the slower market is that there is always a portion of sellers who remove their listing from the MLS in order to do some updates, etc during the off season and then get ready to Re-list once the resort re-opens.

Even this past week, leading up to opening day, you can see that the market is already rising with more showings, new listings, and accepted offers.

221-5340 Big White Road | $225,000CAD

406-5030 Snowbird Way | $1,050,000

Owning a property at Big White resort is attainable for many as the price range is vast. You can get a fully renovated studio unit with income generating potential for $225,000CAD. Or if you budget allows it, a penthouse suite with two primary suites in Happy Valley for $1,050,000CAD.

Whether your real estate portfolio goal is to purchase a piece of Big White’s magic for your family to enjoy, or to firm up a deal in order to generate income and potentially grow your portfolio in the future with more investment properties – Big White Resort can accommodate your needs.

Exciting Times in Spring 2023

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Spring 2023 is off to an exciting start in Real Estate! Interest rates were held again and the market is strong with Kelowna beating out Victoria to be the 3rd highest rental rate in the country. Big White Ski Resort is also experiencing one of the best rental seasons to date.

With lots of exciting music events happening like the Alti-tunes Fest at Big White this past weekend and the upcoming Rock the Lake in Kelowna and the many more events that are scheduled this coming spring and summer it is sure to bring in many tourists and people looking to possibly invest in the Okanagan and area. It’s very exciting that this area is where people dream of moving to – we are so lucky to live here.

Kelowna Real Estate Recap

Kelowna’s sale numbers increased last month when comparing to the previous months. “The upwards movement in sales activity compared to the previous month is showing signs that market activity is on its way to recovering from the previous month’s slump, while still maintaining healthy market activity,” said Association of Interior Realtors past-president Lyndi Cruickshank.

This is good news for Kelowna and Big White as a healthy and balance market is beneficial for both buyers and sellers.

The benchmark price rose above 1 million in March with the average being $1,001,500 – an increase from February but a 14% decrease from March 2022. Days to sell has also risen to 55 days on average – nearly double from March 2022 which, as we know, was an unprecedented time.

Big White Ski Resort Recap

As previously mentioned, the resort is experiencing one of the best rental seasons to date. With that in mind, many potential buyers are looking to invest at Big White as the benefits can be tremendous.

March saw a total of 14 sales at the resort, a decrease from 2022’s 25 sales. Even with the lower sales count, if the property is priced right and sought after there will be a buyer looking to commit.

To end of this real estate recap on a fun note, I’ve included some some fun facts from the season at Big White Ski Resort from Michael J Ballingall:

  • Events team served up nearly 5,000 cones of cotton candy to over 7,000 eager kids on Saturday at our weekly Carnival night. Over 7,000 new heads donned the famous Big White pom-pom toque, with over 100,000 now sold around the world.
    Big White’s food and beverage team served up 35,808 pounds of french fries, 49,971 shots of espresso (2,122 pounds of beans) and 17,263 liters of hot chocolate. Snowshoe Sam’s cooked over 7,500 Smash Burgers!
  • Visitors enjoyed over 125,000 tube rides, nearly 7,500 people went for a rip at night, and our brand new POWder Card made it into the hands of over 3,000 people.
  • Our outdoor operations team parked just under 130,000 cars, and our airport shuttle transported nearly 21,000 people to and from the resort, with the largest day being Saturday, February 25 with 404 people.
  • The Kids’ Centre, back for the first season since 2020, served up over 6,000 juice boxes and 1,300 litres of hot chocolate. Nearly 400 kids were dropped off at the Tot Town Daycare, and our Ski & Board School gave out around 2,500 private lessons and over 25,000 group lessons. Our Snow Hosts conducted over 500 free on-mountain tours with over 1,200 guests.
  • This season, we saw the return of our weekly events schedule, including Carnival Night, Bingo Night and Trivia Night. We also saw the return of Big Reds – with both nights selling out – and night skiing.
  • All 873 Big White team members want to send out a huge thank you to everyone, especially our loyal season passholders and locals, who came to enjoy our Okanagan Champagne Powder! We’ll see you in a few short months for summer – opening June 29 if weather permits

If you have any questions please feel free to reach out to me here.

March Fun at Big White Ski Resort

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March is time for fun at Big White Ski Resort. With many heading to the mountain for Spring Break – the resort is bustling and full of life! Property owners and renters alike are enjoying time at the hill – and with these events its hard not to.

As for Real Estate, there are plenty of showings happening around the resort as well with more and more people interested in investing at Big White Ski Resort.

March Fun at Big White Ski Resort – events

Of course, every Saturday night, the greatest firework show in town explodes down in Happy Valley. Its the perfect chance for the family to enjoy some great fireworks, take a skate around the skating rink, slide your way down tube town, or just enjoy from a window overlooking Happy Valley. This event starts at 9pm every Saturday.

Another big hit in March is the Moose Cruz! Starting March 22-23, this scavenger hunt is like no other. Discover and engage with the mountain, solving clues, exploring terrain and of course the most important, having fun!! Find all the information you need here.

And, the highly popular AltiTunes Music Festival takes place March 31, April 1 at the resort. This highly anticipated event will rock the resort with bands like Moontricks, DJ Invizible, Meems, Shred Kelly and many more! This is a celebration with live music, outdoor activities, and of course skiing! This event is a 19+ event and tickets are selling FAST. Learn more about this event here.

Brief Real Estate Update

Along with all of the fun events happening at the resort, real estate is also busy and seems to have picked up with Spring break happening. Many buyers are looking to find a vacation home to retreat to on the weekends or during school breaks. Units have been renting quite well so far this year with many fully booked for the remainder of the season. Investing on the hill at this time is a great opportunity!

Whether you are searching for an affordable studio unit that you can lock and leave or a luxury chalet with beautiful views, the market is seeing it all. Many people are loving the buildings with amenities such as a pool, fitness room etc.. as it does set it apart from the others than do not have amenities and most do not have rental restrictions.

So far March has seen 6 firm deals, a drop compared to March last year which firm deals equaled 25. The average sale price in March 2022 was $690,128 while thus far March is sitting at an average of $509,417.

I will be on the hill all of Spring break – so give me a call or stop by my office in the Village under Snowshoe Sams. I have plenty of brochures for current listings and can answer any questions you may have about rental revenue, investing, and more! You can also start by contacting me here!

March Fun at Big White Ski Resort