Whistler

The weather was beautiful, the Village was bustling, and Whistler’s real estate market picked up pace in August, with sales activity increasing from July.

 Listings remained steady throughout the month, consistent with the limited inventory we’ve seen recently. Shared ownership and condos held steady, townhomes nudged up slightly, while chalet inventory decreased by 2 listings.

 Sales activity was more robust than in July, with townhomes and condos receiving the most attention. Chalet sales remained consistent, while shared ownership saw a slight dip, with 4 sales in August compared with 6 in July.

Overall, total sales increased by 45% month over month.

As we move into September, attention will begin to shift toward the upcoming winter season. With inventory remaining tight, buyers who are actively looking should be prepared to move when the right opportunity comes to market. In a limited-inventory market, being ready can make all the difference.

Pemberton

The Pemberton real estate market followed a typical summer pattern throughout August, with both sales activity and inventory remaining relatively steady as many took advantage of the summer weather to travel, spend time with family and friends, and enjoy a seasonal break.

Total listing inventory remained unchanged from July, with 89 properties on the market. While the mix of available properties shifted slightly, there was no significant movement across the four main market segments. Chalet inventory declined, townhouse inventory remained steady at 12 listings, condominium inventory increased from 5 listings in July to 8 in August, and vacant land remained unchanged.

Sales activity was similarly steady month over month. Chalets recorded three sales, unchanged from July, while townhouse sales also remained steady with 2 transactions in both July and August. Condominium sales remained flat with 1 transaction, alongside one vacant land sale.

As we move into the fall market, inventory traditionally begins to build as new properties come to market, bringing fresh opportunities for buyers who have been anticipating additional selection.

The WREC Management Team

*excluding parking stalls

When buying a property in Whistler, it’s important to understand the difference between Phase 1 and Phase 2 zoning. These covenants are registered on the property title and determine how often you can use the property, how it can be rented, and how it is managed.

Phase 1 – Maximum Flexibility

Phase 1 properties offer the greatest flexibility for owners.

Key features:

• Unlimited personal use you can live in the property full-time or use it as often as you like.

• You can rent it nightly (such as Airbnb), monthly, or long-term.

• Depending on the property covenant and strata bylaws, you may be required to make the property available for rental and/or use a specific rental management company.

• Typically found in townhomes and some condominium buildings throughout Whistler Village, the Benchlands, Creekside, and other neighbourhoods.

• Generally, yields a higher return on investment compared to a Phase I property which is reflective in the purchase price.

Best suited for: Buyers who want the flexibility of a personal vacation home, a full-time residence, or an investment property with rental income options.

Phase 2 – Hotel-Style Investment

Phase 2 properties operate more like hotel ownership and have more restrictions on personal use.

Key features:

• Personal use is generally limited to up to 28 days in the summer and 28 days in the winter (56 days total annually).

• Personal stays usually need to be booked in advance according to the property's rules.

• When you are not using the unit, it must be placed in the hotel’s rental program and managed by the approved management company.

• The hotel management handles bookings, guests, cleaning, and day-to-day operations.

• Rental income and expenses vary by property and may be either pooled among owners or based on the individual unit’s performance.

• Phase 2 properties are commonly found in hotel complexes such as the Four Seasons, Westin, Delta Hotels, and Pan Pacific.

Best suited for: Buyers seeking a low-maintenance investment in a prime location who do not require unlimited personal use.

Quick Comparison

 Brief Summary

Phase 1 is ideal if you want maximum flexibility and the ability to enjoy your Whistler property whenever you choose. Phase 2 is better suited for buyers looking for a more passive, hotel-managed investment with limited personal use.

As every property has its own specific covenant, strata rules, and rental agreements, it’s always important to review the individual details before purchasing.

Feel free to call me if you have any more questions. 604-906-1700

Ceri 

Whistler

The July market snapshot for Whistler shows that listing levels remained relatively stable, with only minor changes across market segments. Condominiums were the only category to see a notable increase, rising by six listings compared to June.

Sales activity was mixed, with townhome and condominium sales declining, chalet sales remaining unchanged, and shared ownership experiencing an increase. Overall listing inventory remained consistent month over month, with just 11 additional properties available from June to July.

Activity throughout the resort continues to be strong, with a busy summer events calendar and steady visitor numbers driving increased interest and inquiries from those exploring property ownership opportunities in Whistler.

Pemberton

The Pemberton real estate market is following its typical summer pattern, with both sales and listings declining slightly in July compared to June. Listing inventory decreased across all market segments, with the exception of condominiums, where available inventory remained unchanged.

The lower inventory levels may be causing some buyers to adopt a wait-and-see approach, anticipating that more properties will come to market in the fall before making a purchase decision. At the same time, fewer available listings can benefit sellers, as buyers with an immediate need to purchase may face less competition from other properties and be more motivated to act.

The July market snapshot in Whistler shows listings varied slightly but not in any significant quantity. Only condos saw a tiny jump up by 6 listings from June. Sales volumes experienced mixed activity townhomes and condos down, chalets the same while shared ownership was up. Listing inventory also remained consistent from June to July up by 11 units total. The activity in the resort has been brisk with events and visitor numbers remaining strong which leads to more inquiries about property ownership in Whistler.

The WREC Management Team

*excluding parking stalls

For many people, owning a place in Whistler is the dream. Imagine finishing work on a Friday, driving up to the mountains, and spending your weekends skiing fresh powder in the winter, biking world-class trails in the summer, or simply relaxing with friends and family in one of Canada's most beautiful destinations.

The reality, though, is that most of us don't need a vacation home 365 days a year. That's where 1/4 share ownership makes so much sense.

With a quarter share, you enjoy all the benefits of owning a Whistler property without the cost and responsibility of owning it full-time. You'll typically have around 13 weeks each year, giving you plenty of time to experience every season while sharing the expenses with three other owners.

One of the biggest advantages is that everything is looked after for you. When you arrive, your home is clean, furnished, and ready to enjoy. When you leave, you simply lock the door and head home. No worrying about maintenance, landscaping, or checking on the property between visits—it's all professionally managed.

Many owners also choose to rent out the weeks they aren't using, helping offset some of the costs of ownership. It means your mountain home can work for you while you're away.

Quarter share ownership is perfect for people who love returning to Whistler throughout the year. Maybe it's Christmas with the family, spring skiing under blue skies, long summer days on the golf course or bike trails, or colourful autumn weekends when the village is a little quieter. Instead of booking hotels and hoping for availability, you'll have your own place waiting for you.

It's also a great way to step into the Whistler real estate market at a much lower price than purchasing an entire property. You still own real estate, but in a way that fits how most people actually use a vacation home.

At the end of the day, a quarter share isn't about owning more—it's about making the most of the time you spend here. It's a chance to create family traditions, enjoy spontaneous weekends away, and truly feel like you're part of the Whistler community.

If you've ever dreamed of having your own place in the mountains but wondered if full ownership was the right fit, a 1/4 share could be the perfect balance of lifestyle, flexibility, and value.

Ceri Williams | Whistler Real Estate Company

Let's look at how the Whistler real estate market performed through the first half of 2026 compared with the same period in 2025.

Whistler

While the numbers suggest there has been relatively little overall change year over year, one factor influencing sales activity may be the continued lack of available inventory. Listings have remained relatively stable but on the lower end of historical levels, leaving many buyers waiting for the right property to come to market.

Total listing inventory at the end of the second quarter of 2026 was down 7% from the same time last year, with 265 properties available compared to 284 at the end of June 2025. Although these represent the month-end totals, average monthly inventory has remained relatively consistent at approximately 330 listings.

The largest change was in the chalet segment, where inventory declined 17%, falling from 90 listings in 2025 to 75 this year. Condominium inventory also decreased by 7%, from 104 to 97 listings. Townhome inventory remained virtually unchanged, increasing by just two properties year over year, while shared ownership inventory rose slightly to 21 available properties. Sales activity was similarly steady, with overall transactions down just 7% compared with the first half of 2025. Two market segments experienced modest gains while two saw declines, although none recorded significant shifts.

Townhome sales experienced the largest adjustment, declining by 16 transactions compared to the same period last year. Shared ownership sales also eased, falling from 14 sales in 2025 to nine this year. In contrast, chalet sales increased by one transaction, representing a 6% gain, while condominium sales rose by 13%, with four additional sales compared to last year.

Several factors likely contributed to the mixed results during the second quarter. The end of the ski season traditionally brings a seasonal slowdown, with some properties unavailable for showings due to owner occupancy or rental commitments during the ski season. At the same time, reduced inventory across several market segments has limited options for buyers searching for properties that meet their needs.

Nationally, there have been encouraging signs of strengthening housing activity in several Canadian markets, suggesting that some buyers may no longer be waiting for further price adjustments before making a purchase. While Whistler operates differently from most residential markets, improving consumer confidence across the country often translates into increased interest locally.

Tourism Whistler has reported strong summer occupancy, bringing more visitors to the resort and creating additional exposure for the local real estate market. From our perspective on the ground, inquiries from prospective buyers have increased, and we are seeing more clients touring properties than we did earlier in the year. If this trend continues through the second half of 2026, it could provide positive momentum for the Whistler market heading into the fall.

Pemberton

Pemberton has a unique real estate market, attracting a diverse range of buyers. Some live and work locally, others commute to Whistler while choosing Pemberton for its affordability and lifestyle, and many purchase secondary homes to enjoy everything the Pemberton Valley has to offer while remaining close to Whistler. Despite this broad appeal, Pemberton remains a relatively small market, where even modest changes in activity can have a noticeable impact on year-over-year statistics.

Listing inventory increased during the second quarter of 2026, following the typical spring pattern when properties tend to show at their best. This year was no exception, with inventory rising in most market segments. Chalet and acreage listings increased to 42 properties, up from 34 during the same period in 2025. Townhome inventory rebounded from an unusually low three listings last year to 11 this year. Vacant land also saw a modest increase, with three additional lots available. Condominiums were the exception, with inventory declining from eight listings in 2025 to four this year.

Single-family home sales increased by 167% year-over-year; however, this represents eight sales compared to three during the same period last year. While modest in volume, this is an encouraging signal for the months ahead. Townhome sales declined, largely due to limited inventory, while condo sales remained consistent and vacant land saw one additional sale. Notably, there have been five vacant land sales over the past six months, indicating growing confidence in future development.

*excluding parking stalls

Overall sales activity increased 17% during the first half of the year, although performance varied by property type. Chalet and acreage sales were down by just one transaction compared with the same period last year. Townhome sales remained consistent with 2025 levels but doubled compared with the first quarter of 2026, indicating improving momentum. Condominiums experienced the strongest performance, recording nine sales during the first half of the year, while vacant land sales declined by three transactions compared with 2025.

The summer months in Pemberton traditionally bring a seasonal slowdown as buyers and sellers turn their attention to family, holidays, and enjoying everything the valley has to offer. While activity may ease over the coming months, this can create opportunities for buyers who remain active in the market. For sellers, it may simply mean packing a little extra patience—along with the bathing suit—as they wait for the right buyer to come along.

The WREC Management Team

For many people, Whistler Village is the first place that comes to mind when they think about life in the mountains. But ask a local where they'd choose to live, and there's a good chance they'll say Creekside.

As Whistler's original base area, Creekside has evolved into one of the resort's most desirable neighbourhoods. It offers the perfect balance of convenience, outdoor adventure, and a relaxed community atmosphere—making it an excellent choice for full-time residents, weekend homeowners, and investors alike.

Direct Ski/Bike Upload at Creekside Gondola.

One of Creekside's biggest advantages is its direct access to Whistler Mountain via the Creekside Gondola. Instead of navigating the busy Village, you can be on the slopes within minutes, making first tracks before many visitors have even arrived. The Creekside base has its own ticket office, rentals, ski school, and amenities, allowing you to enjoy a complete mountain experience without the crowds.

A Quieter Side of Whistler

While Whistler Village is known for its energy and nightlife, Creekside offers a more peaceful pace of life.

The neighbourhood has a genuine community feel, with a mix of families, long-time locals, and second-home owners and ¼ shares. Tree-lined streets, lakeside paths, and a slower rhythm make it feel like a true residential neighbourhood rather than a tourist destination.

Smaller Lift Lines

One of Creekside's best-kept secrets is the often shorter lift lines compared to the main Village gondolas—particularly on weekdays and outside peak holiday periods.

Less time waiting means more time skiing, biking, or enjoying the mountain, something locals quickly learn to appreciate.

Lakes on Your Doorstep

Few neighbourhoods offer the lifestyle that Creekside does. Within a short walk or bike ride you'll find:

• Alpha Lake – ideal for paddleboarding, swimming, kayaking, or relaxing on the beach.

• Nita Lake – a peaceful spot for morning walks, lakeside picnics, or an evening paddle.

• Access to the Valley Trail, connecting you to parks, beaches, and Whistler Village without needing your car.

Whether it's a summer swim after work or a coffee beside the water, outdoor living is simply part of everyday life here.

Great Coffee, Restaurants & Everyday Convenience

Despite its smaller size, Creekside has everything you need. For coffee, locals love Rockit Coffee Co, a welcoming neighbourhood café that's perfect before hitting the slopes or trails.

When it comes to dining, Creekside punches well above its weight:

• Rimrock Café – one of Whistler's most iconic restaurants.

• Creekbread – famous for its wood-fired pizzas.

• Southside Diner – a local favourite for breakfast.

• Roland's Creekside Pub – perfect for casual drinks and catching the game.

You'll also find a grocery store, liquor store, gym, retail shops, ski services, and everyday essentials, meaning most errands can be done without ever leaving the neighbourhood.

Just Five Minutes from Whistler Village

Need a little more excitement? Whistler Village is only about a five-minute drive away, with regular public transit and the Valley Trail making it easy to get there by bike or bus. You can enjoy world-class shopping, restaurants, festivals, and nightlife whenever you like—before returning home to the quieter atmosphere of Creekside.

A True Four-Season Lifestyle

Creekside isn't just a winter destination. Spring brings blooming trails and quieter mountain adventures. Summer is all about lakes, hiking, mountain biking, and paddleboarding. Autumn offers spectacular colours and peaceful walks, while winter delivers some of the best ski access anywhere in North America.

It's a neighbourhood where the outdoors become part of your daily routine not something reserved for weekends.

Why Buyers Love Creekside

For buyers looking in Whistler, Creekside offers an outstanding combination of lifestyle and long-term value:

• Ski-in/ski-out access to Whistler Mountain

• Often shorter lift lines

• Walking distance to Alpha Lake and Nita Lake

• Excellent cafés, restaurants, and local amenities

• Family-friendly, peaceful atmosphere

• Just five minutes from Whistler Village

• Strong appeal for both full-time living and vacation ownership

If you're looking for a neighbourhood that combines mountain convenience with a genuine sense of community, Creekside continues to be one of Whistler's most sought-after places to live. Whether you're enjoying first tracks on a powder morning, paddling across Nita Lake on a summer evening, or grabbing a coffee from your favourite local café, Creekside makes it easy to embrace the Whistler lifestyle every single day.

Author: Ceri Williams

Photo: Callum Hayes, Whister Creekside Village

Whistler

June followed a fairly typical seasonal pattern, with sales slowing across most market segments while listing inventory edged up slightly.

Chalet and shared ownership inventory both increased month over month. Chalet listings rose from 73 to 86, while shared ownership listings increased from 18 to 25. Townhome and condo inventory remained relatively steady compared to May.

Sales of chalets and townhomes softened in June, while condo and shared ownership sales held steady. As summer continues and more visitors arrive in Whistler, sellers have new opportunities to showcase their properties to an active audience. It will be interesting to see how the market responds through the remainder of the season.

Pemberton

Comparing June to May, the Pemberton real estate market saw a modest increase in listing inventory and a slight decrease in overall sales activity. As a relatively small market, even minor changes in the number of listings or sales can influence what buyers and sellers can expect when making their real estate decisions.

In June, townhome listings increased from 11 to 15, while condo listings doubled from 3 to 6. Chalet and chalet-with-acreage listings remained essentially unchanged, with just one additional listing compared to May.

Sales activity was relatively steady overall, with one fewer chalet sale, one additional townhome sale, no condo sales, and one lot sale recorded during the month.

While properties are taking longer to sell, prices have remained stable through the first six months of the year—a positive sign of continued market resilience.

The WREC Management Team

*excluding parking stalls

Canada officially slipped into a technical recession today after economic growth stalled in the first quarter.

So what does this actually mean for interest rates?

The central bank makes scheduled rate announcements. The next date is June 10, 2026

While markets are still predicting the Bank of Canada will raise interest rates before the end of the year, BMO chief economist Douglas Porter says, today's bad GDP news should make that less likely.

"Even if we determine that this is just a recession in name only, the fact that we have seen declines in GDP in three of the past four quarters I think washes away any argument for rate hikes," Porter said.

Economists are now watching closely to see whether slowing growth could eventually lead to rate cuts if economic conditions continue to soften.

As a general rule, when interest rates rise, house prices tend to soften as borrowing becomes more expensive. When interest rates fall, house prices often increase as buyers have greater purchasing power and affordability improves. While many factors influence the market, interest rates are one of the key drivers of housing demand and pricing trends. For homeowners, buyers, and anyone watching mortgage rates, this is definitely something to keep an eye on over the coming months.

Read the full article here:
https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/recession-gdp-may-2026-statscan-9.7216352

Source: Abby Hughes · CBC News