First Ever Big White Realtor Tour

Last week over 30 Realtors journeyed to Big White Ski Resort for the first ever Realtor Tour. Ten luxury properties were showcased during the tour, with a parade of vehicles convoying to each one and ending with a special luncheon at The Crescendo, where the best of Big White was featured.

The afternoon started by meeting at noon sharp outside of my Big White real estate office in the Village just under Snowshoe Sam’s. Over the course of two hours, we showcased and visited 10 high end properties, from top quality penthouses, income producing duplexes, and high end chalets. The tour included a vast array of available options on the market today.

The final part of the tour took place at the world renowned Crescendo, which was just voted Worlds Best Ski Chalet 2019. A spectacular set of guest speakers including Graham Sullivan with Owner Relations, Marlin Weninger, the leading expert on construction at Big White, Harry Pettit with Royal LePage and Jim Loyd, Director of Sales, took the time to educate the attending Realtors on a few things that makes Big White Ski Resort special within the Real Estate industry worldwide.

Local beer and wine, an in depth tour of the Crescendo provided by House Manager Sheila, and delicious tapas provided by The Bullwheel created a lively, ground breaking event at Big White.

A very big thank you to all of the presenters, behind the sceners, and the Realtors that attended!! With of all of your support this inaugural event at Big White Ski Resort was a success!

Big White Real Estate Update – September

Big White Ski Resort is skiing right into nearly 45 million dollars worth of real estate sold thus far in 2019! The third quarter alone brought in 19 million dollars, up slightly from the third quarter of 2018 which saw 17 million dollars in sales. Sales were especially strong in September as we saw 20 properties exchange ownership, an increase of  25% from September 2018. The number of listings currently at Big White Ski Resort sits at 125, which if compared to the same time last year, is up 30%.

September’s average sale price at Big White Ski Resort for 2019 is reported at $446,057. Going back to September 2018, it was reported at $380,344, quite an impressive increase. However; if we go back ever further, to September 2015, the average sale price was just $169,475!! So it just 4 short years, the average sale price has increased by a massive 163%! Talk about an impressive investment!!

The fantastic thing is that $446,057 is the average price, meaning you can purchase a property for far less, or far more depending on your budget. Currently the lowest priced listing at Big White Ski Resort sits at $94,900, UNDER $100k! If your budget is a bit more generous there are listings as high as $3,988,000 and $5,295,000.

Ready to take the jump and invest at Big White Ski Resort? Contact me to get started!

Opening Day is Around The Corner

Opening Day is scheduled for November 28, 2019 (snow dependent) so mark it on your calendars and start getting your snow gear ready! This year Big White Ski Resort is going to be better than ever with many new developments and amenities to increase locals and tourists experience.

“As Canada’s Favourite Family Resort, we are constantly investing in improving the sliding on snow, riding on lifts, and enjoying our hospitality. Year after year, families are returning to Big White because we are paying attention to their good times. And for that, we are truly thankful.” says Michael J. Ballingall, Senior Vice President at Big White Ski Resort Ltd.

Despite the cooler temperatures, Big White Ski Resorts real estate market remains hot! The time for investors, families, and every one else to purchase the perfect Big White property is NOW! Whether you are planning on using the property yourself or using it for potential revenue income, there are many options for you to choose from. Old developments with the basic necessities to new buildings with luxury amenities like movies theaters and multiple pools there is a potential for incredible memories and revenue potential!

Get in touch with me today to receive new active listings within your criteria!

Big White Real Estate Update – August

The summer season at Big White Ski Resort has come to an end and what an incredible summer for real estate! Summer 2019 brought many new buyers to the mountain from all over the world and the summer events allowed investors to continue renting their investment property year round.

10-255 Feathertop Way

As we know from the past few months, the average sale price at Big White Ski Resort has seen quite a dramatic increase. June through August of this year showed an average sale price of $463,176, which is an increase of 25% over the same time last year even though there were slightly less overall sales.

During the month of August we saw 33 new listings hit the market. From lots starting under 100k to luxury million dollar chalets the range of property available is vast. Properties are selling slightly quicker than last summer with an average days to sell statistic of 101 during the summer months (June-August), an approximate decrease of 12% from 2018.

Now who is ready for the winter season to start?! Only 84 more days!

Don’t miss the opportunity to purchase your dream mountain home or to sell that investment property!! Get in touch with me today for a complimentary market analysis or to receive new active listings within your criteria!

Big White Real Estate Update – July

July has come and gone and it brought some heat to the real estate market at Big White Ski Resort! 16 new listings hit the market in July, bringing the total number of active listings to 105 at the end of the month. The number of sales in July saw a massive increase of 95% from that in June, which only saw 5 sales throughout the month. The average days on market for Big White Ski Resort is sitting at 109 days, just one week more than that of the same time last year.

The average sale price in Big White Ski Resort has seen steady increase over the last few years. The average sale price in July 2019 was $459,179, a 17% increase from July 2018, and an increase of 40% from July 2017. These numbers are the reason why many out of town buyers and investors are coming to Big White Ski Resort to buy property. There is a price range for everyone from under 100,000-5,295,000. That’s right, you can own a piece of beautiful Big White for less than 100K!

The Big White Real Estate market remains strong into the second half of summer – don’t miss the opportunity to purchase your dream mountain home or to sell that investment property!! Get in touch with me today for a complimentary market analysis or to receive new active listings within your criteria!

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 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

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!

What to know for your vacation rental

If you own a vacation home, you’ve likely enjoyed many weekend getaways and time with family and friends. But what’s happening at your property when you’re not visiting? If you’re only making it to your vacation home every once in a while, have you considered earning an income by renting it?

Your first reaction might be to feel overwhelmed. Where do you even start? Is the stress of trying to market and book your home, while trying to maintain it between guest stays, even worth the extra cash? This guide will help you better understand what property management companies do and how one might be your ticket to easy renting and a new cash flow.

Choosing whether to manage your own vacation rental
If you’re handy and know the ins and outs of terms like “SEO” and “dynamic pricing,” then you may be able to manage your rental property yourself. However, if you’re like the vast majority of vacation homeowners, you struggle to unclog a drain and are currently pondering what SEO could be.

There are multiple sides to managing a rental home. Here’s what’s involved:

– Marketing your property to guests
– Determining rental rates
– Guest reservations and services
– Exterior and interior maintenance
– Housekeeping services
– Management services such as permits and taxes

But renting your home doesn’t mean you have to be an expert marketer or maintenance guru. That’s what full-service property management companies are for. At Vacasa, for example, we take care of the entire vacation rental lifecycle. Every step you see listed above comes standard with every homeowner we work with. And while we’re taking care of your guests and your home, you’ll be earning an income on your investment.

Vacation rental property maintenance
One of the most important parts of a vacation rental is the upkeep. Having a local team conduct home inspections, seasonal walkthroughs, and regular visits ensures your property is always in tip-top shape and ready for your next guest.

Reputable management companies will have both a property manager and an operations manager. They work closely with licensed, bonded, and insured contractors for any maintenance issues that arise. Electricians, plumbers, roofers, building contractors, heating and cooling specialists, and appliance technicians are on call for when something needs their attention at your home. Property management companies can arrange services such as snow removal, garbage pickup, wireless internet, cable, yard maintenance, and electric, water, and sewage.

Vacation rental cleaning
Just like hotels, vacation homes need a thorough cleaning after every stay. Hotel-quality housekeeping is critical to keeping guests happy and maintaining positive reviews. Unless managing your rental will be your full-time job, it will be difficult to complete a proper cleaning yourself every time guests leave.

Property management companies can refer you to housekeeping vendors, or if you work with us here at Vacasa, we hire our own. You can rely on housekeepers to supply your guests with items like shampoo, conditioner, paper towels, toilet paper, and dish soap. If you decide to hire a company for housekeeping, be sure to confirm in your agreement that they include these supplies.

Housekeeping services for short-term rental properties can also include seasonal deep cleans and regular housekeeping inspections. Some companies will even provide linens for bedrooms and bathrooms.

Vacation rental marketing
Marketing your home is critical to your success as a short-term rental homeowner. Without it, you won’t have steady bookings. Vacation home marketing is complicated. There are hundreds of websites that offer booking platforms, such as VRBO, Airbnb, HomeAway, Booking.com, and TripAdvisor. To place your home on each of these sites would be costly and time-consuming.

Full-service property management companies don’t just take care of your home—they also take responsibility for getting your home rented. Professional photography, virtual tours, and search-engine-optimized content is provided for your home’s listing. Then, your listing is placed on the top booking sites to strategically engage with the right renters. Some companies, including Vacasa, use Google Adwords and social media platforms for marketing as well. If you allow your vacation home to be marketed by a top property management company, your rental should be booked more often than not.

What is dynamic pricing?
Ever wonder how vacation homeowners determine their rental rate? It isn’t easy. In fact, hundreds of factors go into accurately pricing the nightly rate for a vacation home. It’s called dynamic pricing, and it optimizes your rental rate to give you the best ROI. At Vacasa we account for seasonality, local events, proximity to popular attractions, timing, market rates from third-party sites, and more. Our rates adjust four times a day, ensuring that every home is priced to maximize its booking potential.

If you choose not to work with a company that provides dynamic pricing, you may miss out on some income. Because top companies use sophisticated software to to predict how the vacation rental industry functions, it would be impossible for you to price your home the same way.

Property management fees
Property management fees differ from one company to the next. Here at Vacasa we charge one comprehensive fee, or commission rate, that encompasses every part of the vacation rental lifecycle. Turnkey has a similar commission fee structure, except there are other fees, such as the cost of household supplies, that aren’t included.

Here are the pros and cons of a full-service property management company:

Pros:
– All marketing, dynamic pricing, booking, and guest services are included.
– Interior and exterior maintenance, inspections, and housekeeping are part of the agreement.
– Permits and taxes are handled.

Cons:
– You cannot pick and choose a la carte services.
– Some companies will advertise one commission rate, but there can be hidden fees.
– Other companies serve as a booking platform, but don’t include property management services. Evolve and Rented.com don’t provide property management services but will connect you with       local contractors for maintenance and housekeeping services. Their websites are mostly used for securing rentals and booking guest travel.

The pros and cons for standard rental booking platforms are:

Pros:
– They will use top marketing techniques to book rentals for your home.
– Guest services are included in most agreements.
– Commission fees are lower.

Cons:
– You’re responsible for all maintenance, housekeeping, and administrative services.
– You’ll need to coordinate with multiple vendors to ensure your home is ready for guests.
– There’s no local presence in your home’s market.
– Whichever route you take, working with a property management company will help you navigate the short-term rental road with ease.

Understanding the vacation rental agreement
There are two types of vacation rental agreements you need to understand. First, you’ll have an agreement with your property management company, if you have one. Second, there should be an agreement in place for every guest that rents your home.

The property management agreement will note the terms, including the price, time frame, and services that are included. Be sure you fully understand what you’re signing, and look for extra fees that aren’t outwardly advertised. We recommend you avoid a long-term contract, so you have the opportunity to cancel an agreement if for some reason you’re not satisfied with the company.

Should you ever encounter a problem that you can’t resolve with your property manager, you have the right to file an ethics complaint with the National Association of Residential Property Managers (NARPM).

Among other important terms, the rental agreement you have with your guests needs to discuss who is responsible for what. For instance, if there is damage to your property, will you charge the guests a fee? How much will it be? What are the cancellation terms? Having a legal document in place that has been reviewed by an attorney will protect you and your home. If you partner with Vacasa, we take care of all guest agreements for you, so you can rest easy knowing safeguards are in place.

Making your Big White Rental a 10/10 for Guests

So you’ve purchased an investment property at Big White and are jumping into the mountain’s rental market.  You may be wondering how to make your property stand out amongst the rest. Read along to find out how to score perfect reviews with your guests and have them returning again and again.

1. Create a welcoming impression

tart by leaving a welcoming treat or present for when they arrive, this will create a good starting point. Don’t keep everything hidden, leave a cozy throw on the couch, and maybe some bathroom supplies on the counter in cute jars.

2. House Manual

Ensure you have a house manual that has all the information a guest will need about your home, building, and the mountain. Don’t forget the wifi password and a event calendar for all the incredible events Big White offers.

3. Cleanliness

Always have your rental property cleaned top to bottom prior to renting it out. Some guests pay attention to how well a home is cleaned and maintained and that effects their experience. Squeegee the windows, scrub the corners, and wipe down the walls.

4. Do 1 big gesture

Do something unexpected, like leaving a gift card to a Big White restaurant, gifting the kids a souvenir Big White toque from one of the shops, or a ski or snowboard rental voucher.

Going above and beyond will with these 4 tips will ensure you receive a fantastic review from your guests and continue bringing in revenue!