Whistler Condominiums (suites and townhouses)

Most condominiums on the market are re-sale units from existing complexes because Whistler is built up almost to the development (bed unit) cap. As Whistler's reputation as a ski resort has grown, there has been upward pressure on condominium prices and the supply has dropped. Nevertheless, you can now get excellent values in a variety of price ranges.

Phase I and Phase II Condos for sale in Whistler

If you are interested in Village condominiums, you need to be aware that there are two types in Whistler: Phase I (unrestricted) and Phase II (restricted).

Phase I condominiums provide unrestricted use for the owner. An organized rental program is available when the owner is not using the unit and wishes to rent it. This type of property works best for owners who treat their unit as a personal recreational home as well as an equity investment. All townhouse developments and most lodges on Blackcomb Mountain are Phase I. They can be found in Whistler Village, on the slopes of the Blackcomb Benchlands, and at the Whistler Creek base of Whistler Mountain.

Phase II condominiums restrict the amount of use by the owner. These units are located almost exclusively in Whistler Village. The covenant allows the owner to use the property for a maximum of 28 days in the summer months and 28 days in the winter months. The specific dates of usage must be booked in advance with the management company. These units are generally incorporated into a hotel operation. Benefits include revenue as well as the standard hotel services such as daily maid service. Phase II units are usually smaller in size, but have outstanding recreational facilities. These units are best suited for the occasional visitor to Whistler or for an investor interested only in potential capital appreciation and revenue.

Both Phase I and Phase II condominiums are available in top luxury developments and affordable smaller uints.

Price Range C$1,200,000 - C$2,500,000

There are excellent deals offered at present in this price range.

Townhouses in this price range have spectacular locations, architecture, and views. On Whistler Mountain they are in the Taluswood area and on Blackcomb in some prime developments above the Upper Village on the ski slopes. There are also half-duplex units on Blueberry Hill, in Sunridge Plateau and on the Nicklaus North golf course. You can expect a townhouse or duplex of about 2,000 square foot and skiing to your doorstep. Excellent interior designs usually offer 3-4 bedrooms and superior finishing standards. And the Four Seasons Hotel offers a selection of large Phase II suites.

A closer look at Taluswood		A closer look at Sunridge

Price Range C$500,000 - C$1,200,000

You still get prime locations for two or three bedroom suites or townhouses. Expect 800 to 1,600 square feet. Suites as a rule have spa facilities with swimming pools. In townhouse developments private hot tubs are more popular. Choices are excellent in both ski-in/ski-out and golf course locations.

Price Range C$150,000 - C$500,000

In this price range come most studios, 1 bedrooms and smaller (about 800 square foot) 2 bedrooms. They are all furnished. Hotel-type developments in the village itself will usually have Phase II covenants that restrict owners' private use. These are suitable for investors but not for frequent use by owners. In Phase I Village townhouses, you can find attractive 2 bedroom units with private hot tubs in developments with swimming pools. These are both excellent investments and pleasant residences, and are in high demand.

Fractional Ownership: C$120,000 - C$300,000

Fractional ownership is a relatively new concept in Whistler. There are three major developments of this kind in Whistler: Horstman House on Blackcomb Mountain, Montebello in Whistler Village and The Legends in Whistler Creek. The units were offered in ¼ shares that are mortgageable and registered in the same fashion as full ownership, so they differ greatly from the time share concept. They are luxuriously finished and have excellent recreational facilities.

Fractional ownership is not for everybody, but it is an attractive and easy way to own and enjoy a piece of Whistler. Prices for a ¼ share ownership vary from about C$120,000 for a one-bedroom suite to about C$250,000 for a large townhouse. Quarter ownership usage is scheduled in weeks or months that rotate every year, so unlike in a time share all quarters of a unit are equal in value.

A similar concept is available on Whistler Mountain: a super-luxurious complex of townhouses named At Nature Door is selling in 1/10 ownership fractions for about $300,000. This development is right on the Dave Murray Downhill Course, the site of the Olympic downhill in 2010, and of course is ski in/ski out. If you could be interested in this magnificent project, please ask me for a brochure and detailed information. And ask about the numerous benefits of fractional ownership.

For details on the types of properties on the market that would best combine your investment and enjoyment priorities, please email or call Agnes now.