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!

Big White Real Estate is on Par With The Rest of BC

Big White Real Estate is on par with the rest of BC. You have likely seen in the news that the real estate industry in British Columbia, specifically the Interior, is breaking records. It has well exceeded many peoples expectations. Big White Ski Resort‘s real estate market is no exception.

For instance, January 2021 sales took a 35% increase from January of 2020. Sales from $99,400 to 1,540,000 took place in January with the transactions totalling over $12 million dollars. This created an average sale price of $531,670, a slight increase from January 2020’s average sale price of $501,588.

Big White Ski Resort Real EstatePeople are flocking to the resort to purchase vacation rentals for themselves and their families as well as purchasing investment homes to provide revenue. There are many options for whatever you are looking for in your Big White Ski Resort property. Whether it’s a lot for building your dream chalet, a commercial investment up to $10 million, a studio or anything in between.

From my office I get to see the bustle of the Village and the excitement that runs through the resort on the daily. There is no better time than now to get outside and enjoy everything this beautiful mountain has to offer.

This year, the resort has spent copious amounts of time and money ensuring they are following all new government protocols. I believe they have done an incredible job in keeping visitors and locals safe all seasons long.

If you are curious about stepping into the Big White market or ready to sell your lovely ski abode, contact me today and we can talk about your options. Now may be the best time for you to LIVE WHERE YOU PLAY!

Big White Real Estate – Stats, Market Update & Opening Day

The 2020/21 winter ski season is a few weeks away and in real estate world that means crunch time to find the perfect Big White property before opening weekend. November 26th marks opening day at Big White Ski Resort this year and everyone is excited for that incredible champagne powder. Many people are not travelling out of country this year and are looking to Big White for their winter vacations, thus creating a flurry of deals on the mountain.  

September Stats

September was a huge month for real estate in the Okanagan and Big White is no exception. With an 80% increase in sales from September last year we saw 36 deals this September with an average sale price of $436,271. Prices as low as $86,500 and as high as $3,200,000 mean there is something for everyone and every price point. Check out some listings here. If you are interested in receiving a complimentary market analysis on your Big White property, contact me. I would be happy to discuss about marketing your property worldwide with virtual tours, google ads, and specific targeting. 

Upcoming 2020/21 Season Changes

With opening weekend just a few weeks away, Big White Ski Resort has been diligently working to ensure all safety guidelines and procedures are up to government standards. A few changes have been announced such as no more singles line for the lifts. Check out a few more of the changes for this upcoming winter 2020/21 season here.  

These changes are put in place so everyone can enjoy everything Big White has to offer. From skiing, ice skating, snowshoeing, and more, there is an outdoor activity for all. To stay in the know, visit Big White’s Website for their lift status and hours.  A fun new favorite at the resort is adaptive biking. With the wide trails and great variety of terrain, Big White is one of the best BC bike parks. Learn all about Adaptative Biking at Big White Ski Resort here. 

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

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:
  1. Masks are mandatory in lift lines and loading/unloading on the gondola.
  2. 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.

Spend Summer at Big White!

Spend your Summer at Big White – the resort is open! This summers opening weekend was the most successful opening summer weekend in history. The real estate market is red hot and investors are coming from all over the country to buy a perfect mountain getaway for their families. We believe it is better to be outside, and with Big White Ski Resort offering incredible outdoor experiences, now is the time to explore all Big White has to offer.

Here are a few of the adventures and activities that you can find at Big White this summer.

The Toonie Experience – A Race Series

Friday nights are for downhill racing! With the course changing every week, this series is a fun way to hit the dirt and compete with friends. Either participate or just come to cheer the racers on! Click here for more information.

Geo Hiking Adventure

A free scavenger hunt taking place August 1 and 2, that will challenge your navigation skills and Big White knowledge. Compete as a team or by yourself and have fun! Find out more details here!

Horseback Riding

Saddle up and enjoy a relaxing adventure riding horseback along the trails with experienced guides. You’ve never seen Big White like this so take in the gorgeous views and fresh mountain air. Multiple options available from an hour ride to a half day adventure with lunch at Globe Cafe or Blarney Stone! Big White Horseback Adventures is ready to ride!

Hiking

An obvious favourite, hiking Big White is phenomenal. Grab a trail map and walk through the trails to enjoy the greenery and gorgeous vistas. Here are the Top FIVE hiking trails:

  1. Rhonda Lake Trail
  2. Peak Trail
  3. Falcon Ridge
  4. Alpine Meadows
  5. Jaimeson Loop

The sun is shining and the mountain is waiting for you to get outside and enjoy beautiful British Columbia and Big White Ski Resort. Come visit me at my office, right under Snowshoe Sams, or contact me today!

LIVE WHERE YOU PLAY!

Big White Real Estate Market Update & More!

Let’s dive into Big White Real Estate Market Update & More! Although snow has postponed the Summer opening day at Big White Ski Resort this year the Real Estate market remains strong coming into the summer months. With the resort now opening on July 10th, many are eager to get outside and explore the mountain.

Many are investing in the local real estate market for vacation and investment properties. Big White Ski Resort has been a popular choice among those looking to purchase because of its incredible investment opportunities. Big White Ski Resort offers a variety of rental and vacation options whether you want a turn-key condo in the rental pool, or a larger single family home for those family getaways.

Real Estate Snapshot

We’ve seen thirty new listings hit the market since the beginning of May and nine properties have changed ownership including one for $950k.

With the help of virtual tours and other online marketing tools, out of country buyers are still able to complete transaction without stepping foot in the property. Real Estate agents have been working hard to ensure buyers and sellers are still able to carry out their Big White Ski Resort property dreams. Whether your budget is 100k or 1M, there is a Big White property that will suit your needs!

Big White Ski Resort Updates

Near the end of May, the resort announced a 20% rebate on the 2020/2021 season pass for people renewing their 2019/2020 pass because of the early closure. Early big passes are available now, click here.

At Big White, we believe it is better to be outside. With that in mind, the resort has implemented new protocols and procedures to ensure we are safe all while still being able to enjoy the outdoors. New touchless systems are now in place, additional outdoor washrooms are just a few of changes at the resort. Check out all their new procedures here!

School is now out and families are looking for local activities and Big White Ski Resort offers something for everyone. Come visit me at my office in the Village, right under Snowshoe Sams. I’d be happy to chat real estate and all things Big White Ski Resort!

To get in touch with me today, click here to contact me!

Big White Real Estate Update – October

With around 20 days left until Big White Ski Resort opens for the Winter 2019/20 season, the Village is starting to get busier and the Real Estate market is following suit. After a steady summer and off season, families and investors from near and far are travelling to the resort to purchase their own piece of paradise just in time for Opening Day!

Crescendo

October 2019 brought forward 25 new listings to the Big White Real Estate market. Listings starting at $87,000 for a studio apartment in Whitefoot Lodge, all the way up to a $3,250,000 listing featuring luxury amenities and great investment potential. There was a lot of movement of properties as well, as we saw 20 sales during the month of October. Which is basically on par for October of 2018 which saw 21 sales.

With 115 active listings, there is lots of inventory to choose. From lots, condos, and single family homes, there is a vast array of available options at Big White Ski Resort.

Click here for active Big White Real Estate listings

LIVE WHERE YOU PLAY