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