big white properties Archives - Joan Wolf, Big White REALTOR®

Big White Ski Resort 2022

August 15, 2023February 4, 2022 by Joan Wolf

We are over one month into 2022 already and Big White Ski Resort continues to break the mould in many ways. Rising above the challenges and restrictions, the mountain has maintained and elevated real estate growth and development. With the Coquihalla Highway reopened to regular traffic and exciting events scheduled, the resort is becoming a more sought after place than it already was. Travelers from afar, and locals are both vying for the opportunity to own property at Big White Ski Resort.

Big White Ski Resort so far in 2022

This January we saw 24 sales at the resort, which is fairly on par as last year saw 23 sales. Again, fairly on par was the total volume of sales reaching 14 million this year, up 2 million from last years number. A number that was saw a big difference in was inventory. Not news for anyone that has been keeping tabs on the Kelowna market, but for Big White, this is a large difference that has just been affecting the market. January 2021 had 73 active listings including condos, lots, etc.. This past January only 34 active listings were available on the market. More than a 50% decrease in inventory. Which, leads us into the current happenings as we continue through February.

Currently there are 36 active listings. From the most affordable studio unit at $165,000 to an under construction luxury chalet at $1,599,900. There still is a price point for everyone and the potential investment opportunity is, for some, just too good to pass up. Some listings are being quickly snapped off the market at full or higher than list price and sometimes subject-free. That is not the case for every property however so there are still many good chances to find your perfect Big White Ski Resort property.

In other news

The resort is finally bringing in and scheduling more and more events as we see the COVID-19 restrictions slowly easing off. A couple of events that have ears buzzing are:

AltiTunes Music Fest – The Arkells are headlining this incredible outdoor event at Big White Ski Resort along with Juno award winner Lights. This festival takes place April 2-3, 2022 and tickets are already on sale! Find more information here.

The Moose Cruz – A scavenger hunt like no other! This widely popular event is back and on February 19, 2022 you can join the fun. Find more information here.

As the Beijing 2022 Olympic Games start, we are ready to cheer on our very own Tess Critchlow! The home-town hero is representing Canada in Snowboard Cross and we are all extremely proud and excited for her.

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!

Big White’s 2020/21 Season – What to Expect

October 27, 2022September 12, 2020 by Joan Wolf

Big White Ski Resort is ready for the 2020/21 Winter Season! This year many new and exciting things are happening and with that new protocols and procedures to make skiing safe and available all season long. We are seeing a great number of Real Estate transactions happening – if we compare the numbers to last year there is an increase of 111% in the number of sales.

Virtual tours and online communications make completing a deal easy for those out of town. Our board has also set new procedures to ensure all showings are done in a safe manner.

Things will look a bit different at the resort the year. Here’s what to expect from Big White’s 2020/21 season:

Safety is the number one priority for staff at Big White Ski Resort, and because of certain challenges the tube park, ice rink and night skiing are suspended for the 2020/21 season.

Rentals at the resort also will be operating a bit differently this year. Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry said the limits will be based on the size of the rental, but did not provide specific numbers or say when the order will go into effect. She said health authorities are working with the industry to determine those details. (source: cbc.ca)

There are a few things to keep in mind while visiting Big White Ski Resort this Winter:

Masks are mandatory in lift lines and loading/unloading on the gondola.
Ticket sales are online only

What we really should expect from Big White’s 2020/21 Winter season is a GREAT time and champagne powder. It’s better to be outside so come visit me at my office right under Snowshoe Sam’s in the Village or contact me to chat about Big White Real Estate.

Revamp Remodel Renovate

December 30, 2019 by Joan Wolf

We’re now in full swing and right before the New Year, this is one of my favorite times of the year! Shimmering snow on the mountains and the twinkling lights in the village, Big White is a wonderful place to be.

Whether you’re thinking about building from scratch see my previous entry or if you already have a property there are lots of options to make it modern. Perhaps you’ve found a property you really like but there are just a few things you want to upgrade. Renovations are a great way to keep your place current and increase its market value. Even if you have a slight fixer-upper don’t be discourage to sell, this might be the perfect project for someone else. You don’t have to break your budget either since you can start and finish at your own pace.

Consider A Few Things

A fresh coat of paint is a simple way to change the look and feel of a space and you can hire professionals or DIY.
Kitchens and bathrooms are good places to start whether you’re a buyer or a seller most people take notice of these areas. You don’t necessarily need to do major renovations either since small improvements help, consider changing sinks, countertops, appliances and hardware.
Floors are another way you can easily transform a space. Think about replacing broken tiles, hardwood panels, or removing old carpet.
Window coverings are another way you can redesign a space.
If your property is on the smaller side think about sprucing up outdoor areas to add more inviting spaces into the mix.

Depending on the project you are planning you might need a permit so be sure to find out more from your regional district or municipality. There are lots of home improvement magazines, TV shows and websites that can help you decide on the perfect designer look for you. Our friends at Weninger Construction can also help navigate your renovations needs.

Build at Big White

October 27, 2022December 12, 2019 by Joan Wolf

You can feel the excitement as 41 runs are now open and it’s just the beginning of the season! At 7595 ft Big White is one of the highest ranges in the Okanagan Highlands. Maybe this is one of the secrets to the Champagne Powder? For that reason and many others, we are the second largest ski resort in BC and continue to grow each year. Nestled in between the Monashee Mountains and the Okanagan Valley, this makes panoramic mountain views a reality. Our listings showcase a variety of price points making this a viable market for buyers and sellers.

With The Crescendo winning ‘Best Chalet’ at the World’s Ski Awards in Austria, Big White is getting recognized for its design and innovation. This definitely helps attract people from around the globe I gotta say, this ski resort continues to impress me! Imagine what you could do with your own custom build. Perhaps you’re thinking about a chalet or an investment property. Work with a team that has experience in designing and building on the mountain for over 30 years. The expertise of Weninger Construction can help you execute your dreams, take a look as they construct Black Forest Lodge.

As a result of the unique climate and terrain, you’ll want to consider durable materials like stone, wood, acrylic stucco or treated concrete. In addition, the mountain is home to sensitive plant life so you’ll need to strategize how to be of minimal impact on the environment. Keep in mind growing season is short so you’ll want to get plants that will thrive in those months. The mountain is also getting a 800K sewer upgrade. In case you have further questions about the development process application which needs to be obtained before a builders permit click here. Keep in mind Big White falls under the Kootney Boundry regional district zoning which allows for residential, high-density mixed residential\commercial, recreational, industrial, light industrial, and institutional & community facilities.

Check out these lots for some of the best locations to build in Feathertop. Feathertop is one of the most exclusive neighborhoods on the hill with access to Bullet Chair and Black Forest Chair. The alpine terrain is getting developed past here which makes this an ideal location to build your luxury chalet.

3 Family Friendly Activities at Big White Ski Resort

October 27, 2022October 30, 2019 by Joan Wolf

Big White Ski Resort is Canada’s Favorite Family Resort and for good reason! Offering a vast array of activities, Big White is fun for all ages and athletic abilities. Not everyone has an interest in skiing or snowboarding and that deters them from experiencing Big White Ski Resort, but below you will find my TOP 3 activities that all families will enjoy, that doesn’t involve strapping on a pair of skis.

TUBING

Tubing at Big White is classic! Who doesn’t love to rip down a crisp smooth hill with the sound of laughter following you the whole way down!? No experience is required, no equipment is required, and a thrill seeking attitude is a plus! The tube-park offers 5 groomed lanes and the new tube lift offers more tubers per hour than ever to maximize the fun for everyone!

ICE SKATING

Canada’s highest outdoor skating rink offers a picturesque atmosphere to take a spin on your skates. The rink is suitable for a leisurely skate or a game of pickup hockey with others. Rentals are available! Visit here for more information and tips for the rink!

HORSE DRAWN SLEIGH RIDES

There is one beautiful way to see Big White, and that’s on a horse drawn sleigh! Cozy up under a blanket and glide through the winter wonderland with experiences horses. This activity is perfect for ALL ages. For rates and more information click here

For more family friendly activities offered at Big White Ski Resort click HERE

LIVE WHERE YOU PLAY

Big White Real Estate Update – May

October 28, 2022June 10, 2019 by Joan Wolf

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

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

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

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