Owning a condo at Big White Ski Resort makes for a pretty sweet getaway, and it can be a great investment, too. But if you want that investment to stay worth visiting, you’ve got to take care of it, especially in the off-season. When the lifts stop turning and the snow starts melting, your condo won’t sit there untouched by time. Weather, wear, and critters can all creep in if you’re not paying attention. That’s why taking care of your property when you’re not around is so important. Whether you rent it out during the winter or keep it for your vacations, a well-maintained unit holds its value and stays ready for the next ski season.
Seasonal Checks Ensure Your Investment Holds Value
Start every off-season with a thorough inspection of your condo. Walk through every room. Look for water damage, cracks, or any signs that winter has taken a toll. Big White sees a lot of snow and moisture, so leaks can pop up, especially around windows and in storage areas.
If you’re not local, consider hiring a property manager or a local caretaker who knows what to look for. They’ll check the roof, the pipes, the furnace – all the important stuff! The small cost of hiring someone can save you lots of money in the long run.
Don’t forget to inspect your appliances. Shut off and unplug anything that doesn’t need to be running. Fridges should be emptied and cleaned to prevent mold. The same goes for laundry machines. Clean your fireplace and have the chimney inspected if you have one.
If you close up your place completely, make sure everything’s turned off properly. Water lines can freeze and burst if you’re not careful, so either winterize the plumbing or keep the heat on low to prevent freezing. A smart thermostat you can control from your phone can help you keep tabs on the temperature from afar.
Protect, Repair, and Prep Big White Realty
Once everything’s been checked, it’s time to take care of any needed repairs. The off-season is perfect for this, as contractors are more available, prices might be lower, and you don’t have renters coming and going. Get on top of things like chipped paint, loose railings, broken fixtures, or worn flooring. If you have a hot tub, give it a full service now. You don’t want something to break when it’s minus twenty and someone’s trying to enjoy an evening soak.
You’ll also want to think about your condo’s security. It might be sitting empty for weeks or months at a time. Install motion lights or smart cameras at the entrance. Make sure the windows lock properly. If your building has shared access, ask the strata what off-season security measures they use. A timed light inside the unit can also make it look lived in.
For those renting out their place during the ski season, make sure your online listings stay updated. Take fresh photos if you’ve done any upgrades. A few small improvements can help boost your nightly rate come winter. Think about adding boot warmers, upgraded kitchenware, or better bedding. Little things matter when renters are choosing between properties.
Storage is another item worth handling now. Put away any seasonal gear, and label bins so you’re not digging through them come December. Store anything valuable out of sight, or even off-site if possible. If you’re storing items in the unit, keep them elevated and sealed, just in case of leaks or critters. Mice can be a problem in mountain environments.
Make Next Season Even Better
Prepping for the next ski season might feel early, but it’ll make your life easier later. Think about what worked well last year and what didn’t. If your check-in system felt clunky or you had trouble with cleaning schedules, fix that now. Update your welcome book, refresh your essentials, and double-check your inventory.
If you use your condo for personal trips, make a list of items you want to bring up early next season. For instance, ski gear, pantry staples, or extra linens. Set aside a weekend in the fall to do a deep clean and restock, so you’re ready before the snow hits.
Also, don’t forget about your condo’s value. Big White realty is competitive. A tidy, well-maintained unit stands out. Even if you’re not thinking of selling right now, keeping your place in top shape pays off later, whether that’s in rental income or resale price.
And, if you’re unsure what adds value, ask a local agent. I’ve seen what buyers and renters look for season after season. I’m always happy to give advice on upgrades that actually make a difference.
Contact me About Big White Realty
If you ever need help with off-season care, rental tips, or want to talk about the market, I’m here. As someone who specializes in Big White realty, I know how to keep your property performing year after year. Contact me anytime, and let’s ensure your condo is ready for whatever comes next. I look forward to hearing from you!
