Market Update

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.

Overnight Index Swaps

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There are no shortage of predictions as to how when rate cuts start and how deep they go but the most objective predictor is typically “The Market”. Overnight Index Swaps (OIS) essentially trade debts and equity at an agreed upon rate of interest. But in doing so, they’re predicting or anticipating the next moves of the Bank of Canada (BoC) to set those rates. And the path the OIS market is predicting for the BoC right now is 0.25% rate cuts in:

  • April
  • June
  • September
  • October
  • December

That’s a total of 1.25% off the BoC overnight rate by the end of 2024. Which is excellent news for the housing market. And though we never want to get too far ahead of ourselves, some outfits like Capital Economics are calling for as much as a 2% cut by the BoC.

We talk a lot about pent up demand for housing and how it’s expected to come off the sidelines as we gain confidence in/start to see interest rate cuts. Ipsos conducted a poll in December that shows just how much prospective home buyers and sellers decisions are impacted by higher interest rates. 73% of those surveyed said “higher interest rates have me on the sidelines for now and I won’t buy or sell as a result.” Everyone in Real Estate and Mortgages have talked about pent-up demand over the last 18 months. This survey puts an actual number that shows the significance of just how much of an impact these higher rates have had. But what happens as we start to see rate cuts in the coming months? Certainly a share of that 73% will find more confidence to enter the market. The window to buy without significant competition may be closing and closing quickly.

Which leads us into spring and the market we might expect. 2023 saw a spring market that was stronger than the 10 year average. And that was with fixed interest rates that were still approaching 5%. Most borrowers opted for shorter term fixed rates in the ~4.85% range in the spring of 2023. And where do we sit today? On average, fixed rates of all terms are about 0.5% higher today than the same time last year. But as we get closer to the inevitable first cuts, it’s likely that fixed interest rates will see some more downward pressure. And it is quite possible that we will see the same levels we saw one year ago.

So where does all this leave us? “The Market” (OIS) is almost never wrong about the direction of rates. And while they’re not as good with timing or magnitude of moves, it’s becoming increasingly clear that the next move(s) are going to be downward. And as confidence grows into certainty, it’s fair to expect a good sized portion of that 73% to wade into the market and test the waters. The prescription here is to get prepared. Though there is much less urgency with rate holds in a declining rate market, there’s much higher urgency in having a quality pre-approval and knowing numbers and limits. Because when things turn, they turn quickly.

And hey – if you want to grab a coffee and talk  Reach out and let’s connect!

All the best in 2024!

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.

Okanagan and Big White’s Summer Real Estate Forecast

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Lately the Okanagan and Big White’s forecast has been above average temperatures and somewhat smoky skies but what does their summer real estate market forecast look like? It’s hard to use the past 3 years of statistics to help forecast this summer as they were highly unprecedented, but we do remain seeing certain trends continue. It’s no secret this is a highly desired place to live and play and the number of buyers coming from out of town and purchasing still remains relatively high. That goes for the Okanagan area as well as Big White Ski Resort.

Big White’s Summer Real Estate Forecast

At the resort we’ve seen 15 firm deals since April 1st, keeping up fairly well to the record breaking last year when the same time period had 23 deals. Since the beginning of May, 6 new properties hit the market. It is a good time to list as the mountain is preparing for its upcoming summer season and most units are vacant and easy to view for potential buyers and their agents. Seeing strong activity through the shoulder season is promising and helps us foresee into a productive and busy summer season in Big White real estate.

Big White’s opening day is scheduled for June 29th, 2023 – events are starting to pop up including Fiv’r Fridays and Bike Big White BC Cup. On June 10th we will once again put on the gloves, grab the garbage bags and volunteer our time at the Big White Community Clean-up. And, after all the hard work, there is a complimentary lunch at noon!

Okanagan’s Summer Real Estate Forecast

Homes in Kelowna are spending more time on the market than last year but still averaging just 53 days. I believe this will not waver too much and will remain under the 60 day mark for the summer. A few months ago the average home price dipped under one million, but the past few months we have seen it climbing again. April hit $1,083,027, a number I believe will keep climbing but not at an alarming rate as we saw last year.

It’s hard to choose what to do in Kelowna in the summer as there seems to be endless activities and events to take in. It’s no wonder people are drawn to this spectacular city! From Rock the Lake, to Fat Cat’s Children Festival, to Diner En Blanc Okanagan, to Apple Trilithon, there is always something to enjoy and definitely something that is sure to be a good time! Check out all of the incredible events and more here.