Whistler Real Estate

When seeking the perfect British Columbia investment, look no further than Whistler real estate. Land values have risen dramatically over the past several years, and the experts are predicting that prospects for future increases are virtually certain. This is in part due to the fact that Whistler is a "capped" community. Yet, when comparing Whistler real estate prices with its main resort competitors, Whistler real estate is still a bargain.

What Makes Whistler Real Estate So Attractive?

The simple answer is winter sports. As the premier ski resort in North America, Whistler/Vancouver has won the bid to host the 2010 Winter Olympics. Its facilities rank among the world's best, and it attracts visitors from all parts of North America and Europe. Skiers will find that snow is a reliable commodity from November through April. Yet its mild Pacific air makes for such a pleasant run that some skiers actually wear tee shirts!

Can I Make Use of My Whistler Real Estate in the Summer Months?

Absolutely! Whistler Village is surrounded by glacier fed lakes and mountain peaks that make a summer day there seem like you've landed on cloud nine. There are seven designer golf courses in the area that will challenge your skills at the game, and steal your breath with their sheer beauty. It isn't easy to look down a fairway at the green when there's a snow-capped mountain above it.

Your Whistler real estate investment in summer will also offer you some of most serious mountain biking that can be found. If you aren't the athletic type, you could also rent ATVs or 4X4s to enjoy some bone-bending off-road excursions, or simply hike and enjoy the wildlife that abounds. Perhaps hang-gliding might interest that adventurous side of you. Or, if you prefer your excitement closer to the ground, you can also try your skills at white-water rafting or kayaking.

What types of Whistler Real Estate Opportunities Are There?

Currently, you can find Whistler investment property, recreational wilderness properties, Whistler chalet properties, Whistler home properties, and even time-sharing opportunities. You'll find Whistler property sales prospects in the village, on the mountains, and on the lakes. Commercial opportunities are also currently available, as are condos and townhouses. No matter what you're looking for in Whistler real estate, you're sure to find it.

Skiing Is Still the Biggest Draw to Whistler, Isn't It?

With more the 20 miles of Nordic trails in the village and even more just outside, and hundreds of downhill slopes, the answer has to be, yes, Whistler is a ski town. There are even heli-skiing companies that have formed to fly you from the village to one of the 100+ glacial runs for the really serious skier. Whistler is in fact a frequent stop on the World Cup ski tour. Lift and T-bar access to the glaciers provide skiing opportunities even into the summer months. For après ski, Whistler also has everything a world-class ski resort would want. The "cement beaches" are the huge outdoor patios of some of the village's favorite restaurants and taverns, and the propane "trees" that decorate the "concrete beaches" allow you to have a comfortable outside drink on even the coldest evening.

Can a U.S Resident Buy Whistler Real Estate?

The simple answer is, yes, but ... The reason most people would ask that question of a Whistler realtor is because they are looking for Whistler investment property that they can rent during the times that they aren't there themselves. Many U.S. residents own a Whistler chalet or condo, rent it during the ski season, and enjoy the summers by going themselves. They find that the rental income for several years will help pay the mortgage sufficiently to turn the property around and make a nice profit. Plus, they get a great place to spend their summers, rent-free.

I'm Sold on Whistler Real Estate, What's Next?

Next, find a good Whistler realtor. Besides helping you find the perfect Whistler property to suit your needs and budget, they can help you with lots of other things you probably hadn't considered. If you plan to be a non-resident landlord and exclusively rent your Whistler investment property, there are potential tax issues that you might not have considered. While not Chartered Accountants, the Whistler realtor will have expertise enough to guide you through the process and know the right questions to ask when you do seek the advice of the tax expert.

Everything else aside, when seeking Whistler real estate, doesn't it just plain make good sense to take the advice of someone that has lived and worked in an area before making a serious purchase there? Enjoy Whistler for yourself, and be sure to consult a Whistler realtor before you buy.