Why More Vancouver Buyers Are Eyeing Big White

By Adam Smith

Adam Smith brings a proven track record of negotiation, leadership, and client-focused execution to real estate in Kelowna. With a deep understanding of high-stakes decision-making, he helps clients navigate complex transactions with clarity, confidence, and strategic insight.

Over the last 12 months, I’ve noticed a pretty meaningful shift in the conversations I’ve been having with buyers from Vancouver and the Lower Mainland about recreational ownership.

A lot of people who traditionally would have focused on Whistler are starting to take a much harder look at Big White. Not because they’re identical markets, far from it, but because the overall ownership equation is starting to make a lot of sense.

Accessibility is a big part of it. Kelowna now has roughly 8 direct flights per day from Vancouver, along with multiple daily connections from Calgary and seasonal Toronto service. From Kelowna International Airport, Big White is about a 50-minute drive, making quick weekend trips and family trips surprisingly realistic.

The other major factor is pricing. Over the last 12 months, Big White condo sales averaged roughly $560,000, with family-oriented ski-in/ski-out condos and townhomes still trading at price points well below most comparable Whistler product.

For some perspective, entry-level full ownership in Whistler now commonly starts around $800K to $900K for a one-bedroom condo, while two-bedroom product is often well into the $1M+ range, and townhomes frequently start north of $1.6M.

Meanwhile, Big White still offers legitimate ski property ownership opportunities at substantially lower entry points, including detached homes that remain attainable relative to many traditional recreational markets like Whistler and Blackcomb.

The mountain itself is also substantial: 119 runs, 16 lifts, and roughly 4½ months of skiing each season. While Whistler generally sees higher overall snowfall totals due to its Pacific Coast exposure, Big White benefits from colder interior temperatures and consistent mid-winter conditions.

Another factor buyers are paying attention to is rental flexibility. Short-term rentals are permitted in many areas of Big White where zoning and strata bylaws allow, although the rules vary building by building. For many owners, the ability to offset carrying costs through occasional rentals adds another layer of flexibility to the ownership equation.

I’m not suggesting Big White replaces Whistler. Again, far from it. They’re very different experiences and very different markets. But I do think more Lower Mainland buyers are starting to rethink what recreational ownership can realistically look like, from both a lifestyle and a long-term ownership perspective.

It’s an interesting trend to watch.

If you’ve been curious about the Big White market, whether from a lifestyle, family, or investment standpoint, feel free to reach out anytime. I’m happy to share what I’m seeing locally. Call or text me at 604-813-0142, email me at adam@vantagewestrealty.com, or visit vantagewestrealty.com.