What are you looking for? It’s a simple-yet-complicated question. Buying real estate in Whistler is a daunting process for those new to the community, and while you might know what kind of property you’re searching for, you may not know the best way to get the right one. Rob Palm Personal Real Estate Corporation uses two decades of Whistler real estate experience to streamline the buying process, take the pressure out of the purchase, and help you make your best move. The sooner you’re in your Whistler home, the sooner you can get into the Whistler outdoors!
WHERE YOU LIVE IS HOW YOU LIVE.
From lively urban centres to expansive rural estates, the lifestyle you aspire to is intrinsically wrapped up in the place you choose to be. In Whistler, this translates to an active, passionate lifestyle. Here the seasons evolve with your moods. From the famously generous snowfalls of winter to the perfectly balanced temperatures of summer—and everything in between—Whistler’s seasons are energetic. Charged with the passion of the mountains and the eclectic people they attract. Having a place to call your own in this valley is a surefire way to inject good energy into your life, whether you prefer to watch it from your living room, or submerse yourself in all things wilderness. To be close to Whistler is to bring Whistler close to the heart of who you are.
The Whistler real estate market holds opportunity for all kinds of people looking to be a part of this great community. From young families carving out a life in paradise, to those seeking a luxury getaway, to the prospective business owner searching for the perfect location, the possibilities are vast and diverse.
The Whistler Real Estate Market is full of opportunities for everyone. We have a wide range of property types that allow us to cater to many different needs and wants. There are just over 15,000 residential and approximately 750 commercial properties within the municipal boundaries in 20 distinct neighbourhoods.
For searching purposes, properties can be found under the following headings:
Residential Use
Properties zoned for residential use are meant to be used for residential purposes and are not to be rented on a short term basis. They may be rented on a long-term basis or enjoyed full or part time by the owner and guests.
Tourist Accommodation
Properties with this zoning allow rentals on a short-term basis, either through a professional rental management firm or through the owner themselves. They also allow owner use, which adds a lifestyle component to the investment. Within the tourist accommodation areas there are two distinct property types.
Condominiums and Townhomes
Whistler condos and townhomes account for approximately 60% of local real estate. Because they are managed through strata, each owner shares in the cost of the maintenance and upkeep of the common areas of the buildings and land associated with the properties, while enjoying all the benefits of full ownership. Along with location, the specific zoning of each Whistler condo or townhome is key to understanding the value of the property.
Chalets
Whistler’s history is rich, and the homes built here throughout the years reflect a dynamic range of builders, architects and owners that have been a part of the Whistler lifestyle. Whistler homes come in many different sizes and layouts for many different lifestyles and budgets. Location, view, size and age all determine how much you’ll pay for your new slice of paradise, but the range is wide. Values are based on location, land/home size and age of building, quality of construction and interior and exterior systems. Careful consideration to each factor will determine the value of each chalet.
Vacant Land
Vacant land is available in Whistler but is becoming more scarce each year. Municipal and provincial regulations—as well as the natural environment—limit development in the valley and it won’t be long before true vacant land in no longer available. Creating the Whistler chalet of your dreams should be exciting, and you’ll be in good hands with our talented group of local architects, general contractors and professionals. Things to keep in mind include: size of building allowed on a specific plot, the grade of the property, zoning, design guidelines and access to amenities and recreation. Generally speaking, you can build up to 35% of your lot size up to a maximum of 5000 square feet. Estate Lots allow larger homes however these are rare and can only be found in a few select neighbourhoods.
Quarter Share
These units allow each owner to use 1 week per month and can have up to four owners on title. If you don’t use your unit for your allocated week it is rented out through the contracted property management service. This can be an affordable way to own larger unit in Whistler for a much lesser price.
Commercial
Commercial Property in Whistler is a very select and unique proposition. Like anywhere there are office spaces, industrial & light industrial as well as storefront, restaurant and warehouse spaces throughout Whistler. Whistler Village is abundant with storefronts, restaurant and office spaces and the location of each is integral to value and lease rates. There are various smaller commercial nodes throughout the municipality that house smaller commercial centres. Some examples of each are Whistler Creek, Nesters, Upper Village at Blackcomb and Rainbow. Function Junction is a mixture of industrial buildings and office space, funky shops and cafes, and a craft brewery. There are many commercial opportunities in Whistler and one should understand the implications of the zoning for each separate parcel of land in Whistler to fully appreciate its potential.
READY TO MAKE YOUR BEST MOVE?
Contact Rob with any questions or to request a showing.
Our mission is to provide you with insightful information to help you make your best move.
Rob Palm | Personal Real Estate Corporation
c: 604-905-8833 e: rob@wrec.com