Get Ready for Summer at Big White

April 5, 2022 marked the last day of the Winter 2021/2022 season. You know what that means now? It’s time to get ready for summer at Big White!

This years summer season will start on June 30th and run until September 5th, 2022. Last summer it was incredible to see the events and amount of action we had even with restrictions were in place and we are excited this summer to pump it up to the next level because this summer is sure to be jam packed with events for the entire family. It’s very exciting to see the resort thriving and people being able to get outdoors more. Because as you know, it’s better to be outside!

Events

Big White Resort is bringing back many favorites like Craft & Country Music Festival, Freeride Days, Mountain bike boot camps and Spartan Race. You can find all the details about the resort’s summer events here.

The Annual Big White Community Clean Up takes place on June 11th, prior to opening day, to ensure the resort is in tip top shapes after all of the snow has melted. There is also a complimentary BBQ & t shirt for those who participate. Disposable gloves and garbage bags will be provided after registration which takes place at 9am in the Village. For further information click here.

New Developments

There is more than just events happening at the resort. There are multiple new developments underway. This is exciting and promising to see as more and more people are interested in buying a piece of beautiful Big White Ski Resort. Modern mountain living is coming and some pre-sales are already happening!

Monashee Ridge at Big White is mountain living at its best! Ski-in and ski-out, these single family homes boast spectacular views, modern mountain designs and low strata fees. Phase 1 has already sold out, so make sure to get your foot in the door for phase 2…coming soon!

Vita Residences at Black Forest by K West Homes are affordable smart, fully furnished studios starting at $399k. A $60M development, there will be 200 condos located just 50m from the base of the Black Forest chair lift.

Two more developments in Black Forest, Wild Wood and Blackhawk, are scheduled to commence in Fall 2022. Wild Wood will consist of 24 lots (single family or duplexes) with homes starting at $900k and Blackhawk will offer 16 townhomes.

Spyglass at Big White, luxury townhouses in Happy Valley, is currently constructing their final phase of 27 units. These townhouses are scheduled to be move-in ready for the 2022/23 ski season!

Big White Stats

April has continued to be a strong real estate market. The average sale price thus far is $850,613 – with a total of 8 properties being firmed up this month. The average days to sell since the beginning of the year is sitting at just 41 days. The same time frame last year we were seeing an average of 57 days on the market for a Big White property.

Currently there are 54 properties listed in the Big White area. There are affordable options, starting at 184k, all the way up to multi million dollar townhomes and chalets. The close price to list price is remaining high at 99.1% in April.

The summer season is exciting to watch grow because since 2017, the first summer season open, the resort has absolutely flourished with events, developments, businesses, and relationships all over the globe.

Feel free to reach out and contact me with any question you have about Big White, the summer season, and what’s happening in Real Estate!

Spring Break at Big White Ski Resort

Spring break is just around the corner and Big White Ski Resort is going to be the place to be! Many events over the past two years were canceled due to the pandemic, but with more Covid restrictions easing, the resort has some incredible events planned for the coming weeks. It’s an exciting time on the mountain because with more events, comes more guests getting to experience the beautiful resort.

What’s Happening

  • After two years of hiatus, the Neil Edgeworth Memorial Banked Slalom is going ahead this year on March 26 and 27th.
  • The 10th annual Big White Firefighter rooftop campout is March 18-20th. The goal this year is to raise $10,000 with 100% going towards the Thrive Foundation, BC Professional Fire Fighters Burn Fund.
  • Calling all healthcare workers(IH staff): FREE lift passes and 50% off ski/board rentals on March 30th!
  • AltiTunes Music Fest featuring the Arkells is a much anticipated event at the resort this year. A great way to reconnect and have fun. 

Real Estate Recap

The more people that arrive and visit the resort and see how amazing it is, more people are interested in purchasing a slice of Big White Ski Resort for themselves. We have seen 56 sales so far in 2022, fairly on par from last year and almost doubling the sales from 2020. With over 35 million dollars worth of property being sold so far, the resort is on track for another high transactional year.

With lower inventory than average, the resort has been expanding their residential areas and many new developments are in the making. Monashee Ridge for example is a new development offering luxury finishes and awesome location that has become an extremely popular choice for buyers.

Not only are there less options on the market, currently only 44 listings, but the listings themselves are being snatched up quicker than normal. 2022 is seeing an average days of market of just 44, a decrease from 2021’s average of 55 days. Less inventory means more competition and the average sale price so far in 2022 ($626,660) shows just how popular the resort is becoming.

Don’t be worried though because there are many opportunities to purchase real estate at Big White Ski Resort for less than that. Currently the most affordable option is a studio unit in the Whitefoot Lodge and it’s listed at $139,000. However, on the flip side, if luxury is your cup of tea, the most expensive listing is $1,999,999 luxury chalet in Feathertop Estates.

With so many eventful happenings at the resort, is it time for you to join the fun? To learn more or to get started on your Big White real estate journey, contact me today!

Hello 21/22 Winter Season at Big White Ski Resort

The final countdown is on to the 21/22 winter season at Big White Ski Resort. Are you ready? Passes bought, snowboard tuned and fresh gear? With less than 3 weeks to go, the resort has been seeing beautiful champagne powder fall in preparation for opening day. The village base is currently at 21cm as November 8th, a good start to the season. If you’re as eager as I am, you can watch the webcams here! The hype around the village is energetic and felt throughout. The restaurants, shops, and resort staff are all gearing up for the start of what is predicted to be an amazing winter season.

More New Things for the 21/22 Winter Season Big White Ski Resort

As discussed in my previous blog, there are many new and exciting things happening at the resort this year like Squawk Box (seriously check out the blog). In addition to those mentioned in that blog, Big White Ski Resort is also now home to the first Mexican restaurant on the mountain. Cantina del Centro, which also has a location in downtown Kelowna, is opening its doors in The Inn at Big White. The culinary variety at the resort is expanding every season and its nice to see numerous cultures and cuisines available.

Investing at Big White

Over the years, Big White Ski Resort has become a major hot spot for real estate investing. Consumers from all over the world purchase property at the resort.  They use for generating income when not being used themselves. This is a great way to be able to have a vacation home and investment home in one. The resort sees many tourists arriving and renting condos and chalets for days or weeks at a time providing great revenue for the investor. This year we have seen an increase of not only investors purchasing but also families. The resort is less than a 45 minute drive from Kelowna making it a great place for families to escape to on the weekends.

In October, there were 33 sales at the resort. A 65% increase if you compare to 2019 which saw just 20 sales in October when the average sale price was $405,631. Which, is fairly on par with this October’s which was $414,433. We saw a 1 bedroom unit sell at $120,000, a luxury ski home sell for $1.1M and everything in between. 75% of those sales were under 500K.

Big White Ski Resort is so much more than investing in a property. It’s about investing in growth, family, and the pursuit of enjoying the beautiful outdoors. It’s better to be outside.

LIVE WHERE YOU PLAY

Big White Ski Resort’s Opening Day

Big White Ski Resort was just voted best in the province and the second-best in Canada, according to Condé Nast Traveler’s list of the top five ski resorts in Canada, part of the magazine’s 2021 Readers’ Choice Awards. So its no wonder Big White Ski Resort’s opening day is highly anticipated this year. And with November 25th approaching quickly I’m sharing the ‘need to knows’ for the 2021/22 Winter Season.

Big White Ski Resort’s Opening Day

As mentioned, November 25th is opening day for the 2021/22 season. Michael J. Ballingall, senior vice-president of Big White, said “last winter was one of their best ever for season passes”, and this year seems to be proving the same outcome with strong season pass sales already. Early bird season passes are still available until October 17th (you can buy them here) and, because they are the #2 ski resort is Canada, the resort is on everyone’s radar.

Snow has already started to dust the resort and the entire Village is working hard to welcome everyone on opening day.

What’s New

As with every new season, comes new activities, protocols, and options at Big White. Along with more parking locations, outdoor washrooms, and touchless faucets, the resort has gained a Squawk Box. What’s a Squawk Box you ask? It’s the newest, online food delivery service where chicken is the main event!

Following suit with other major Canadian ski resorts,  Michael J. Ballingall recently announced they are implementing mandatory vaccines for all employees of the resort. He said the goal is to get people to come out, work, play and live in the mountains for the lifestyle experience. And if being safe by being double vaccinated is a part of it then we’re happy to do it.

Real Estate Market

With strong indications of a fantastic season at the resort, real estate on the mountain has remained strong and continues to break expectations. Year to date on today October 15th, the resort has seen 198 sales, a 32% increase from the same time period in 2020 which we know was a hot market as well.

However, with an increase of sales, usually comes a decrease of inventory. Comparing this October to October 2020 we have 49% less inventory at the resort. So what does that mean? Sellers are getting top dollar for their properties and buyers are jumping in now before the prices increase even further. Year to date, over 99 million dollars in sales has occurred at Big White Ski Resort, a 30 million dollar leap from year to date 2020.

More and more people are exploring this gem and falling in love with everything it has to offer. Big White Ski Resort is a fantastic family fun place to enjoy and explore the outdoors. Just 45 minutes from Kelowna, this mountain paradise is truly one of a kind. As always I’m happy to answer any questions you have and you can contact me here or pop into my office in the Village under Snowshoe Sam’s!

LIVE WHERE YOU PLAY

Big White Ski Resort Statistics

Since the pandemic started it seems like real estate in BC has skyrocketed and as you’ll see by the Big White Ski Resort statistics, the mountain is no exception. The pull to be outdoors, in the mountains, enjoying activities and fresh air seems to be on everyone’s list and they are heading to the resort to do so. The incredible asset about property at Big White is that it’s not just a vacation home. Properties at the resort are known to receive high rental revenue, especially during the busy months, making it even more appealing to buyers and investors.

Big White Ski Resort Statistics

  • Big White Ski Resort’s average sale price has reached an increase of 45% over the past 3 years. In 2018 the average sale price was $351,693 and 2021’s year to date average is $510,123.
  • The number of sales happening at the resort has also dramatically increased 95% from the previous year. YTD 2021 number of sales is 167. A huge leap from the same time period in 2020 when the number of sales was 85.
  • With the increased number of sales in mind, the volume of sales has seen major upward movement and we are seeing a YTD sales volume of 85M. When compared to Jan-Aug 2020 it’s a 123% increase.
  • Prices are up, and the average days spent on the market is down considerably. YTD the average days to sell sits at just 60 days. A dramatic 40% decrease from 2020’s average.
  • Also seeing an increase is the close price to list price. YTD 2021 is sitting at 98.5% – up from last year’s 96.8% average.

Increasing prices, lower days to sell, and everyone looking for that perfect mountain property creates this beautiful storm we are in right now. With massive expansions planned in the coming years, investing at Big White has never been more appealing.

For more information or to chat about your options on the mountain, reach out today HERE

4 Summer Activities to try at Big White Ski Resort

Summer activities are becoming more and more popular at Big White Ski Resort. With the resort now open for its summer season until September 6th, there is just over one month left to explore what the mountain has to offer. You’ve seen the mountain with snow, now its time to check out the incredible activities you can enjoy without all of that champagne powder Michael J. is always talking about.

Just 45 minutes from Kelowna, Big White Ski Resort is the perfect place to travel for a day trip to get outdoors and explore what this beautiful province has to offer. So pack up the family, the dog and head up the mountain to find adventure.

Here are 4 Summer Activities to try at Big White Ski Resort

Mountain Biking

Bike Big White has something for every level of rider. Whether you want to log some serious miles or just gear up for some family fun, the bike trails at Big White were built by riders for riders. These trails feature some of North America’s newest and best lift access. Find yourself exploring 19 world class gravity fed trails and soak up the Okanagan sun while doing so.

Don’t have a bike or any gear? No problem, the Rental and Bike Service will get you all geared up and ready to ride!

Disc Golf

This new addition to the resort has been a big hit with locals and tourists alike. The 9 hold disc golf course was funded in part by the Big White Mountain Chamber of Commerce and the Big White Mountain Community Development Association. It’s conveniently located just below the skiers tunnel.

This activity is free for those who bring their own discs and rentals are available through the Rental Shop in the Village Centre Mall.

Hiking

A great way to explore the landscape minus the snow you are probably used to. Big White offers an incredible hiking experience with mountain wild flowers, bird watching, and phenomenal views.

There are many trails to choose from and you can even arrange a guided hike with a local host.

Events

With COVID-19 restrictions eased, there are many events that are happening on the mountain. Events like Music on the Mountain, BC Cup Downhill Provincial Championships, and Trek Dirt Series are all back. These events are a great way to take in the Big White summer experience.

Check out all of the Summer events here

With the valley basically smoked in right now, Big White’s higher elevation can get you out of the smoke and into adventure.

Recapping the First Half of 2021

Recapping the first half of 2021 seems like great a way to look back and see how this year has molded not only us as a community, but the community itself. It has been another eventful year where we have experienced, learned, and gained growth. 2021 has provided insight into what the next few years may bring and many exciting things have happened that lead us to that.

Let’s recap the first half of 2021:

Real Estate

As we know, the Real Estate market in BC blew up the first half of 2021. With homes going well above listing prices, flying off the market on the first day, and the lowest inventory we’ve ever seen, the first six months of this year have been wild. 141 sales were completed at Big White Ski Resort from January to currently. If we compare that to the 66 completed deals within the same time frame in 2020, that is a 113% increase in sales. And not surprisingly, the total volume has taken a huge leap from 31 million dollars worth of sales to a whopping 74 million.

Low inventory was a huge factor in the stresses of buyers looking for a home to purchase. We saw the lowest inventory available ever and that created a frenzy for buyers looking. And with that, came an incredible sellers market. Many sellers took advantage of the rising home prices and quick possessions. The average time a Big White property spent on the market this year is 60 days. A 45% decrease from the same time last year.

Big White Ski Resort

The resort itself saw many changes over the courses of these first 6 months of 2021. many COVID-19 protocols were implemented creating a safe place for locals, tourists and workers alike. There were challenges along the way but I think the team at Big White did a phenomenal job pivoting and adjusting as necessary. The Summer season has just begun and already the Village is seeing lots of tourists ready to relax, enjoy, and explore the wonderful outdoors.

Big White Ski Resort also made a huge announcement in January sharing that the resort has massive expansion plans over the next few decades. With more skiing terrain, a golf course, new housing developments, and more this is very exciting for the economy and resort.

No one knew what 2021 was going to bring and after a stressful and unknown 2020 we have adapted as a whole and are driving the changes into this year. The first half has been more than exciting and the rest of 2021 will be a great time to enjoy the growth the first half has brought us.

Building at Big White Ski Resort

Finding the perfect chalet in this market can be challenging, especially when it comes to luxury chalets. With only a few available for sale throughout the year, it can be hard to capture your dream property. However, with the mountain expanding all the time, there are amazing new developments with many lots available so you can build your own luxury dream chalet.

Building at Big White Ski Resort is much different than an in town build. The timeline, construction process and costs are all affected. There are pros and cons to building at the resort and this article will bring insight to all aspects.

New Developments

First lets chat about the new developments at the resort. With the resort having major plans to expand, with the master plan underway for exciting new features and development of the ski resort as a whole, many new areas are popping up with developable land to start your build. In addition to these developments below, next year there will be lots available in the beautiful Black Forest area.

Feathertop Estates

The extremely sought after Feathertop Estates is where the luxury chalets showcase phenomenal views and top of the line design quality.

Snowpines

A quiet area where the views are gorgeous and the location is set back from the busyness of the Village.

Moonshine

A fabulous location close to the Villages with incredible views, ski access and low strata fees.

Process of building at Big White Ski Resort

As mentioned earlier, the process of a build at Big White is different than a typical in town build. For starters, there are the possible setbacks as with any build. From unpredictable weather conditions like significant snowfalls and freezing ground, to delivery challenges and selective materials can push the completion timeline.

The zoning bylaws and building code stipulations are something that are much different than in town because the mountain receives 12′ of snow load. (Click here for copies of the OCP and Zoning Bylaws)

As for the cost of your build. The average cost is approximately $400 per square foot plus the price of the lot. Lots range from $150k to $650k depending on size, view, ski access, and village proximity.

Because building at the resort comes with its challenges, its important to choose a builder with years of expertise and knowledge when it comes to building on the mountain. Builders like Weninger Construction, have mastered the building process and have designed and built some of the resorts most stunning chalets.

Completing a build at Big White Ski Resort is a long process compared to say building in Kelowna. The average timeline is usually about 18-24 months.

If you are interested further in the process and what goes into a build at Big White, please contact me as I would be happy to answer any questions and help you get started on owning your dream chalet at Big White Ski Resort.

Summer 2021 at Big White Ski Resort

Get ready for an incredible Summer season at Big White Ski Resort! because the much anticipated Summer 2021 season opens on July 1st. This summer is a great time to explore and discover what the resort has to offer without the champagne powder. With many of us seeking outdoor activities to keep us occupied, the mountain offers something for everyone.

Want to try mountain biking? No problem (they even have rentals!!). Ready for a hike with a phenomenal view? Got it covered. Or maybe you’re looking for something a little less strenuous? In that case, you can enjoy the beautiful scenic chair lift. Remember bike passes go on sale on June 1st and there is a limited supply. Head over to Big White’s website for more information.

You can leave with more than just memories as the shops are open for retail shopping and the restaurants will be open to fill your stomach. Check out all the summer information here.

With past years events including Cider Fest, Mud Sweat and Tears, Wine Fest and North American mountain biking open invitational, we are optimistic that full normalcy expected by late summer. With BC trending in the right direction we are excited to welcome all our international and national guests back to experience the magic with us.

Leading up to the Summer season at Big White

Even during this off season, the Real Estate industry hasn’t slowed down. Outdoor enthusiasts and many locals are looking for that perfect vacation property that they can indulge in that remains close to home. Whether its a small studio apartment to use for the basics or a lavish chalet to entertain and revel in.

There were 22 deals completed in April of this year, with over $13 million in sales. When comparing that to the 1 deal in last April, I would say this year, properties at Big White are sought after. Additionally, last years average days to sell last at 101 days while year to date, this years days to sell is 58.

If you’ve been thinking about purchasing that perfect vacation home or investment property, consider Big White Ski Resort. With major plans to expand over the next 60 years, the resort is quickly becoming an even more popular place to invest and enjoy.

Spring in the Okanagan – Real Estate Edition

Spring has arrived in the Okanagan. With above 20 degree weather, the grasses are greening and the homes are selling faster than ever before. It’s not new news that in the Spring time we see a rush in homes being listed and sold, but this year is taking it to another level. Because this is a strong sellers market, many of the homes are going into multiples and ending up going for above listing price with no conditions. It is a frustrating time for buyers looking for that perfect home but with a qualified, professional, knowledgeable agent, finding and purchasing your dream home is possible!

The Okanagan has so much to offer and people from all across Canada are discovering this little piece of paradise we call home. The outdoor lifestyle, great weather, and endless opportunity are appealing to everyone. That appeal however is driving up prices for anyone local trying to get into this market.

As we near the end of April lets take a quick peek at some stats:

  • We have already seen 597 sales in the Central Okanagan whereas last years April saw 214. That is a 178% increase and the month isn’t even over yet
  • $561,463 was the average price in April 2020, and with the sales conducted so far this April we are at an average sale price of $723,368
  • A home is sitting on the market an average of 36 days compared to last years 66 days (45% decrease!)

Even though its now closed for the Winter Season, Big White Ski Resort is seeing the same increase. Number of sales and average sale prices are up tremendously from previous years. With their summer season approaching, everyone is keen to get outside and enjoy the activities offered; like world-class biking, hiking, festivals and more. More and more people are purchasing vacation homes close to home to escape to during these restricted times. You can check out Big White’s summer season here.

The velocity of the recent COVID-19 third wave, driven by the variants, is likely going to cause further restrictions and the Okanagan market has proven to be resilient and is expected to remain fast paced.

This is the time for sellers who are debating listing to really consider all of the incredible options out there. The Okanagan has never before seen a demand like this making it the perfect time to sell. On the other hand, if you are a buyer looking to purchase into this market, don’t get discouraged. Low borrowing rates create opportunity to step into the market.

As always, I am happy to answer any questions you have about the Okanagan and Big White real estate markets. Contact me today!

LIVE WHERE YOU PLAY!