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Frequently Asked Questions About Buying or Selling Real Estate and the communities of Whistler & Pemberton, British Columbia, Canada.

Q: What is Phase 1 Zoning?
A: Phase 1 zoning refers to properties zoned for Tourist Accommodation and unlimited owner use. Phase 1 properties can be found throughout Whistler Village, The Benchlands and Whistler Creekside. Buyers looking to operate their own rentals or hire a property manager would be looking to purchase a Phase 1 property. Owners are usually given the ability to choose their own property manager or operate their own nightly rental business.

Q. What is Phase 2 Zoning?
A: Phase 2 zoning allows for 56 days of personal use per year. 28 days of use in the summer (April 16 - October 14), and 28 days in the winter (October 15 to April 15). Phase 2 buildings are located in Whistler Village and The Benchlands on Blackcomb. When owners are not using their property for personal use, the property is placed in a rental pool. Owners can keep their property in the rental pool all year and do not have to use the property if they choose. Typically, owners can book their unit 'last-minute' as long as the hotel is below 80% occupancy. Owners can book their property up to 1 year in advance. Every Phase 2 building will have their own Rental Management Agreement (RMA). These details can vary slightly from building to building. When buying a Phase 2 property in Whistler, it is important to review the Rental Management Agreement.

Q: What is the Whistler Listing System®
A: The Whistler Listing System or WLS is similar to the Multiple Listing System, but it is specific to Whistler and Pemberton only. Only agents with brokerages in Whistler or Pemberton can access the WLS. If you are selling a property in Whistler or Pemberton, it is vital to work with a LOCAL AGENT. 

Q. How long is the ski season in Whistler?
A: The ski season will typically start around American Thanksgiving at the end of November. Whistler and Blackcomb close their winter operations at the end of April & for Blackcomb and mid-May for Whistler Mountain. Blackcomb will open in mid-June for summer skiing and snowboarding. This can vary either way depending on the snowpack. 

Q: When is the 'slow' or 'shoulder' season in Whistler?
A: Whistler & Blackcomb Mountains typically close their winter operations in mid-May. The bike park and golf courses will usually open mid-June. The bike park and golf courses close mid-October. Whistler & Blackcomb Mountains opens at the end of November.

Q: Can Non-Residents and Foreign Buyers of Canada purchase property in Whistler?
A: Yes. Non-residents and Foreign Buyers of Canada CAN BUY REAL ESTATE in WHISTLER, B.C. There are no current restrictions. Whistler is EXEMPT of THE FOREIGN BUYER BAN, EMPTY HOMES TAX & SPECULATION TAX!

Q: Can Non-Residents of Canada sell property in Whistler?
A: You should always seek professional tax advice when buying or selling property in Canada. A Seller will need to provide a Clearance Certificate to obtain the full amount of the purchase price. Non-resident sellers will need an accountant to order a Clearance Certificate. The Clearance Certificate can not be ordered until the seller has entered into an 'Unconditional Contract of Purchase and Sale.' The Clearance Certificate will typically take 6-8 weeks to obtain. If the seller does not obtain a Clearance Certificate prior to the 'Completion Date', up to 50% of the purchase price can be withheld until the Clearance Certificate is obtained.

Q: Is there a Non-Resident Tax in Whistler?
A: No, there are NO additional non-resident taxes in Whistler, B.C.

Q: Is there an Empty Home Tax in Whistler?
A: No. There is not an Empty Home Tax in Whistler.

Q: Is there a Speculation Tax in Whistler?
A: No. There is not a Speculation Tax in Whistler.

Q: What is a Tourism Whistler or TW Fee?
A: The Tourism Whistler Fee is used to market short term rental properties and fund the Whistler Village shuttle. Only properties zoned for nightly rental will pay a TW Fee. More information on the TW Fee in Whistler.

Q: What is a strata fee?
A: A strata fee is a portion of the fees associated with operating a stratified property. An owner will pay a portion of the total strata fee based on their Unit Entitlement.

Q: Is a Homeowners Association (HOA) the same as Strata?
A: Yes. In Canada, we have The Strata Property Act.

Q: What is Unit Entitlement?
A: An owner will pay a portion of the total strata fee based on their Unit Entitlement.

Q. Which buildings in Whistler have Phase 1 Zoning?
A:

Q. Which buildings in Whistler have Phase 2 Zoning?
A:
  • Adara Hotel
  • Alpenglow
  • Blackcomb Lodge
  • Blackcomb Springs Suites
  • Cascade Lodge
  • Delta Whistler Village Suites
  • Four Seasons Resort
  • Pan Pacific Mountainside
  • Pan Pacific Whistler Village Centre
  • Westin
  • Whistler Peak Lodge
  • Whistler Village Inns

Q. Which buildings in Whistler are Shared Ownership?
A:
  • At Natures Door - Fairmont
  • Evolution
  • Horstman House
  • Legends

Q. Which buildings in Whistler are Employee Restricted?
A:
  • Eva Lake Village (50/50)
  • Eaglecrest
  • Nordic Court

Q. Which schools are in Whistler, and where are they located?
A:
1. Whistler Waldorf School - located in Spruce Grove
.Whistler Waldorf School is a private, independent school that follows the Waldorf educational philosophy. The Waldorf approach emphasizes the development of the whole child, including their cognitive, emotional, and physical well-being. The curriculum includes subjects such as arts, music, practical skills, and academic subjects, with a focus on hands-on, experiential learning. The goal of the Waldorf education is to cultivate critical thinking, creativity, and a love of learning in students. The Whistler Waldorf School is located in Whistler, British Columbia, Canada.

2. Spring Creek Elementary School - located in Spring Creek.
Spring Creek Elementary School is a public elementary school located in the Spring Creek neigbourhood in Whistler, British Columbia, Canada. It serves students in grades Kindergarten to Grade 7 and is part of the Sea to Sky School District. The school provides a comprehensive education with a focus on creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment for all students. The curriculum includes subjects such as English, mathematics, science, social studies, and physical education, as well as opportunities for students to explore the arts, music, and technology. The school also provides support services for students with diverse needs, including those with learning difficulties or special needs. The staff at Spring Creek Elementary work together to create a dynamic and engaging learning experience for all students.

3. Myrtle Philip Elementary School - located in Whistler Cay Heights.
Myrtle Philip Elementary School is a public elementary school located in the Whistler Cay neighbourhood. It serves students in grades Kindergarten to Grade 7 and is part of the Sea to Sky School District. The school is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment where students can develop their full potential. The curriculum includes subjects such as English, mathematics, science, social studies, and physical education, with a focus on hands-on, experiential learning. The school also provides opportunities for students to explore the arts, music, and technology. The staff at Myrtle Philip Elementary School work closely with families to support each student's learning and development. In addition, the school provides support services for students with diverse needs, including those with learning difficulties or special needs. Overall, Myrtle Philip Elementary School is dedicated to providing a high-quality education for all students in the Whistler community.

4. Whistler Secondary School - located in Alpine Meadows.
Whistler Secondary School is a public high school located in Alpine Meadows neighbourhood. It serves students in grades 8-12 and is part of the Sea to Sky School District. The school is known for its inclusive, supportive, and dynamic learning environment, which prepares students for success in post-secondary education and beyond. The curriculum includes a wide range of academic subjects, including English, mathematics, science, social studies, and physical education, as well as opportunities to explore the arts, music, and technology. In addition, Whistler Secondary School offers a variety of extracurricular activities, clubs, and sports teams to enhance students' social and emotional development. The school also provides support services for students with diverse needs, including those with learning difficulties or special needs. Overall, Whistler Secondary School is dedicated to providing a comprehensive education that prepares students for the challenges of the 21st century.

5. Whistler Mountain Skills Academy - located in Function Junction. Whistler Mountain Skills Academy is a private, alternative high school located in Whistler, British Columbia, Canada. It provides students with an education that combines traditional academics with outdoor education, including skiing, snowboarding, and outdoor leadership skills. The school is designed for students who are passionate about the outdoors and are looking for a unique educational experience that combines academic learning with hands-on, real-world experiences. The curriculum includes subjects such as English, mathematics, science, social studies, and physical education, with a focus on experiential and project-based learning. Students have the opportunity to participate in a variety of outdoor activities, including skiing and snowboarding, as well as backcountry expeditions, camping trips, and rock climbing. The goal of the Whistler Mountain Skills Academy is to provide students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in post-secondary education, the workforce, and life in general.

Q. How tall is Whistler Mountain?
A: Whistler Mountain has a peak elevation of 2,184 meters (7,165 feet) above sea level.

Q. How tall is Blackcomb Mountain?
A: Blackcomb Mountain has a peak elevation of 2,284 meters (7,494 feet) above sea level.

Q: How tall is Mt. Currie in Pemberton?
A: Mt. Currie has a peak elevation of 2,379 meters (7,809 feet) above sea level.

Q. How far is Whistler from Pemberton?
A: Whistler, British Columbia and Pemberton, British Columbia are approximately 30 kilometers (19 miles) apart by road.

Q. How far is Whistler from Squamish?
A: Whistler, British Columbia and Squamish, British Columbia are approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) apart by road.

Q: How high above sea level is Whistler Village?
A: Whistler Village is located at an elevation of 675 meters (2,214 feet) above sea level.

Q: What is a good list vs sales ratio?
A: good list vs sales ratio depends on the specific market and location. In general, a ratio below 30% is considered a seller's market, while a ratio above 50% is considered a buyer's market.

Q: How often is the list vs sales ratio updated?
A: The list vs sales ratio is typically updated on a monthly basis.

Q: Can the list vs sales ratio be used to predict future trends in the real estate market?
A: While the list vs sales ratio provides insight into the current state of the market, it may not be an accurate predictor of future trends.

Q: How can I use the list vs sales ratio to inform my real estate investment strategy?
A: You can use the list vs sales ratio to determine the optimal time to purchase or sell properties in a given market.

Q: Are there other metrics I should consider when evaluating the real estate market?
A: Yes, there are other metrics you should consider, such as days on market, median home price, and housing inventory. These metrics can provide additional insight into the state of the market.

Get In Touch

Matthew Callaghan

Mobile: 604-966-8678

Phone: 604-966-8678

Fax: 604-962-1189

Matt@WhistlerRealEstateListings.com

Office Info

Angell & Hassman Associates

20-4314 Main Street  Whistler,  B.C.  V8E 0S7 

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