Once ski season wraps up, Big White shifts into a completely different atmosphere. The crowds thin out, the pace slows down, and the mountain becomes a peaceful place centered around nature, outdoor recreation, and quiet living.

For buyers considering a condo, townhome, or vacation property at Big White, understanding the off-season lifestyle is important. Summer living here is very different from winter, and depending on what you’re looking for, that can either be a huge advantage or a challenge.

Here’s what life at Big White is really like once the snow starts melting.

Big White Becomes a Different Kind of Destination in Summer

Spring and summer at Big White are quieter, slower, and much more relaxed than the peak winter season.

Instead of busy lift lines and packed restaurants, you’ll find:

• hiking trails surrounded by alpine scenery
• mountain biking routes and downhill riding
• cooler temperatures than the Okanagan valley
• peaceful mornings and uncrowded walking paths
• a strong connection to nature and the outdoors

For many owners, this quieter pace is exactly why they love spending time here in the off-season.

The mountain transforms from a winter resort into a calm recreational community where people come to recharge, stay active, and enjoy the outdoors without the noise and traffic of city life.

The Hiking and Walking Trails Are a Major Draw

One of the biggest summer lifestyle advantages at Big White is the access to trails.

Whether you enjoy casual walks, hiking with your dog, or more challenging alpine routes, there are countless opportunities to get outside.

Popular summer activities include:

• trail walking through alpine forests
• scenic hikes with mountain views
• dog-friendly routes
• wildlife viewing
• photography and nature exploration

For many property owners, daily walks become part of the routine during the warmer months.

The cooler mountain air also makes outdoor activity much more comfortable compared to the valley during peak summer heat.

Mountain Biking Continues to Grow at Big White

Big White’s mountain biking scene has continued to grow in recent years, attracting riders looking for downhill terrain and scenic alpine riding.

As the resort transitions from ski season into biking season, many visitors return for:

• downhill bike park access
• cross-country riding
• scenic chairlift access (seasonal)
• beginner and intermediate trail systems
• quieter riding conditions compared to larger bike destinations

For buyers who enjoy active lifestyles, this helps reinforce Big White as more than just a winter investment property.

It’s becoming increasingly attractive to people who want four-season recreational use from their property.

Summer at Big White Is Quiet and That’s Either Perfect or Not for You

One of the most important things buyers should understand is that Big White becomes much quieter in the off-season.

Some restaurants and businesses operate on reduced schedules or close temporarily between seasons. Services are more limited, and the village feels far less active than it does during winter.

For some people, that’s a downside.

For others, it’s the entire appeal.

Many owners specifically love Big White in summer because it offers:

• peace and quiet
• less traffic and congestion
• easier parking and access
• uncrowded trails and outdoor spaces
• a slower lifestyle away from the city

If your idea of a perfect mountain property includes calm mornings, outdoor recreation, and a quieter environment, summer at Big White can be incredibly appealing.

Remote Workers and Flexible Lifestyles Are Driving Interest

One trend that continues to grow is the number of people using Big White properties outside of ski season while working remotely.

Because many professionals now have greater flexibility, some owners are spending extended time at Big White throughout spring, summer, and fall.

The lifestyle appeal includes:

• cooler temperatures during Okanagan summers
• peaceful surroundings for focused work
• easy access to hiking and recreation after work hours
• a break from city noise and congestion

For some buyers, Big White is evolving from a pure vacation property into a lifestyle property that can be enjoyed year-round.

What Services Are Available During the Off-Season?

One of the most common questions buyers ask is: “What stays open during summer?”

The answer varies depending on the time of year.

During shoulder seasons especially, services can be limited compared to winter operations. Buyers should expect reduced hours and fewer business options on the mountain itself.

That said, many owners simply plan around it.

Groceries, larger shopping trips, and many services are often handled in Kelowna before heading up the mountain. For owners who value quiet living and outdoor access, this tradeoff is usually well worth it.

Understanding this reality ahead of time is important because Big White summer living is best suited for people who genuinely enjoy a slower, nature-focused environment.

Why Some Buyers Prefer Purchasing During the Off-Season

Interestingly, many serious buyers prefer viewing properties during spring and summer because it gives them a more realistic understanding of the community.

In winter, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of ski season. But during the off-season, buyers can evaluate:

• the building itself
• parking and access
• overall property condition
• noise levels
• sunlight exposure
• true day-to-day livability

This often leads to more informed buying decisions.

Is Big White Only a Winter Real Estate Market?

Not anymore.

While skiing still drives much of the market demand, buyers are increasingly recognizing the value of four-season ownership.

Today’s buyers are often looking for:

• recreational flexibility
• investment potential
• remote work lifestyle opportunities
• mountain access year-round
• long-term family use

As Big White continues growing as a year-round destination, summer lifestyle has become a much more important part of the conversation.

Thinking About Buying at Big White?

Every building, strata, and property type at Big White offers a different ownership experience, especially during the off-season.

Some properties are ideal for rental income. Others are better suited for personal lifestyle use and quiet enjoyment throughout the year.

If you’re considering buying at Big White and want honest insight into:

• what summer living is actually like
• which buildings work best year-round
• rental considerations
• off-season access and services
• the current market opportunities

Andrew Braff can help you navigate the options and find a property that truly fits your goals. Get in touch today!

FAQ Section

Is Big White busy in the summer?

No, Big White is significantly quieter in the summer compared to ski season. Many people enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, hiking, biking, and outdoor lifestyle during the off-season.

What can you do at Big White in summer?

Popular summer activities at Big White include hiking, mountain biking, trail walking, sightseeing, and enjoying cooler mountain temperatures compared to the Okanagan valley.

Are restaurants and services open year-round at Big White?

Some businesses and services operate seasonally or with reduced hours during the off-season. Buyers and visitors should expect fewer amenities compared to winter operations.

Is Big White a good place for remote work?

For many people, yes. Big White offers quiet surroundings, outdoor recreation, and cooler temperatures that appeal to remote workers and flexible lifestyle buyers.

Is buying property at Big White only good for ski season?

No. Many buyers now use their Big White properties year-round for hiking, biking, relaxation, and remote work in addition to winter recreation.

Are Big White properties good for investment?

Some Big White properties can perform well as vacation rentals or long-term recreational investments, but buyers should carefully review strata rules, rental restrictions, and operating costs before purchasing.

The post Big White Summer Living: What It’s Really Like in the Off-Season appeared first on ANDREW BRAFF - RE/MAX Kelowna/Big White Ski Resort.

Getting Your Condo Ready for Guests

When you decide to turn your condo into a rental property, you need to consider the business side of things. When guests walk in, they expect a clean space, that feels comfortable, and is well-stocked. Think of the basics like bedrooms, seating areas, and dining spaces, but don’t forget the small stuff either. Items like having decent pots and pans, wine glasses, extra blankets and a coffee maker that works, all contribute to a more luxurious stay. 

Try to sleep there yourself for a night. If anything annoys you, it’ll probably bug your guests too. A wobbly chair or a dull knife may seem minor, but bad reviews often come from little things piling up.

The interior of your condo is ultimately up to you, but most Big White visitors aren’t looking for flashy or ultra-modern. They want somewhere warm, practical, and close to the lifts. Add a boot tray by the door, hooks for jackets, and plenty of storage for gear. 

It’s also a good idea to have a locked owner’s closet for your personal items. Stock the rest of the condo with fresh towels, extra bedding, and basic toiletries. It’s easier to replace things regularly than deal with complaints.

Legal Stuff, Platforms, and Pricing for Big White Vacation Rentals

With the popularity of vacation rentals in the Interior of B.C, throwing your condo on Vrbo and calling it a day, won’t suffice. Before you begin the rental process, start by checking with your strata. Most buildings at Big White allow vacation rentals, but others have rules or limits. If you ignore strata bylaws, you could end up fined, or worse.

Big White falls under the Regional District of Kootenay Boundary (RDKB), which makes operating a  short-term rental much simpler. In the RDKB, you don’t need a business license to operate a vacation rental and there is no principal residence requirement. With this in mind, you do still need to register with the province before you can operate. 

Once you’re clear on the legal side, it’s time to list. Airbnb and Vrbo are obvious choices, but don’t stop there. Some property managers in the area offer direct booking through their sites. If you’re using a management company, they’ll likely handle this for you.

Pricing takes a little homework. Look at similar units in terms of size, location, and number of beds to see what they charge. Then adjust based on season. You’ll earn the most between December and March, but shoulder seasons can bring in cash too. You can use pricing tools if you’re managing the rental yourself. They’ll help you adjust your rates automatically depending on seasonal demand.

Make sure your listing is honest. Don’t promise ski-in/ski-out access if it’s a ten-minute walk uphill. Guests won’t forget, and bad reviews are hard to shake!

Managing, Maintaining, and Protecting Your Rental

Once you’re ready to operate, you may be wondering who’s going to run your rental? If you live nearby and have time, you can manage it yourself. But, that means handling bookings, guest questions, cleaning, and restocking supplies. It saves money, but it’s not passive income.

If you’re not local, or you just want it off your plate, you can hire a property manager. There are a few companies based at Big White that handle everything from check-in to snow removal. However, they take a cut that is usually between 20 and 40 percent. Either way, you need a cleaning crew you can rely on. Guests expect that your unit will be spotless. Plan regular deep cleans between seasons, especially after spring melt when things get damp and gritty.

For upkeep, schedule a maintenance check every few months. Change HVAC filters, check the water heater, and keep an eye on wear and tear. In the off-season, unplug everything and shut off the water to avoid any unwanted surprises.

And don’t forget insurance. Your regular home insurance likely won’t cover short-term rentals. So, call your provider and ask for a policy that’s specific to vacation rentals. Make sure it covers liability in case a guest gets injured, and protects against theft or damage.

Contact me About Owning Big White Vacation Rentals

If you’re ready to rent out your Big White condo but not sure where to start, contact me today. Whether you need help finding a property, pricing it out, or hiring a good management team, I’ve been helping investors at Big White for years!

The post Transforming Your Condo for Big White Vacation Rentals appeared first on ANDREW BRAFF - RE/MAX Kelowna/Big White Ski Resort.