While Big White Ski Resort may still be enjoying warm summer days, experienced property owners know that winter preparations start long before the first snowfall arrives. The work completed during the summer and early fall can make a significant difference when temperatures drop, roads become snow-covered, and your property welcomes family, friends, or rental guests.

Whether you own a ski-in, ski-out chalet, a vacation condo, or an investment property, taking a proactive approach now can help you avoid emergency repairs, protect your investment, and ensure everything is ready when the lifts begin turning later this year.

Why Summer Is the Best Time to Prepare

Many maintenance tasks are far easier to complete while contractors have better access and before winter weather arrives. Waiting until November often means limited availability for trades, increased costs, and the possibility of discovering problems just as ski season begins.

By tackling maintenance during the off-season, owners have time to schedule inspections, compare service providers, and complete repairs without the pressure of approaching snowfall.

Schedule Preventative Maintenance

A comprehensive maintenance inspection can identify small issues before they become expensive winter repairs.

Areas worth reviewing include:

• Heating systems and thermostats
• Fireplaces and chimneys
• Hot tubs and spa equipment
• Plumbing fixtures and shut-off valves
• Roof flashing and gutters
• Decks, stairs, and railings
• Exterior lighting
• Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

Even seemingly minor repairs can become much larger problems once temperatures remain below freezing for extended periods.

Protect Against Winter Water Damage

Freeze-thaw cycles are one of the biggest challenges for mountain properties.

Inspect windows and doors for worn weather stripping, ensure exterior caulking remains intact, and verify that drainage systems direct water away from the building. Addressing moisture issues before snow arrives can help prevent ice damage, leaks, and costly repairs later in the season.

Review Your Insurance Coverage

Many vacation properties sit vacant between visits or rely on rental management companies throughout the winter.

Take time to review your insurance policy to ensure it reflects how the property is actually being used. Coverage requirements can differ depending on whether the home is owner-occupied, rented to guests, or vacant for extended periods.

It’s also worth confirming that replacement values remain current, particularly after recent increases in construction costs.

Prepare for Winter Rentals

If your property generates rental income, now is an excellent time to ensure everything is guest-ready.

Consider reviewing:

• Furniture and mattresses
• Kitchen equipment
• Bedding and linens
• Internet and Wi-Fi performance
• Smart locks or access systems
• Appliance servicing
• Safety information for guests

Small improvements can enhance guest experiences while helping maintain strong reviews throughout the ski season.

Arrange Snow Removal and Property Monitoring

One of the biggest advantages of planning ahead is knowing someone is keeping an eye on your property.

Whether you use a professional property management company or arrange private services, it’s wise to confirm snow removal, walkway clearing, and regular inspections before winter arrives.

Properties that sit unattended for extended periods can experience frozen pipes, heating failures, or storm damage that may go unnoticed until significant repairs are required.

Don’t Forget Your Strata Responsibilities

If your property is part of a strata, summer is also a good opportunity to review any upcoming maintenance projects, bylaw updates, or annual meetings.

Understanding planned improvements or special levies ahead of the busy winter season helps owners budget appropriately and avoid unexpected surprises.

Thinking About Selling Before Winter?

Many buyers begin searching for Big White properties well before the ski season officially begins. Purchasing in late summer or early fall allows buyers to complete inspections more easily, move in before opening day, and enjoy the entire winter season.

If you’ve been considering selling, preparing your property now not only improves its presentation but also allows you to take advantage of buyers who want to be settled before the snow arrives.

Local Knowledge Makes a Difference

Owning property at Big White is unlike owning a traditional home in the valley. Mountain weather, seasonal access, rental demand, and resort operations all create unique considerations that benefit from local experience.

As Big White’s only full-time REALTOR®, I work with owners and buyers throughout the year—not just during ski season. Whether you’re preparing your property, considering an investment, or thinking about selling before winter, I can help you make informed decisions based on what’s happening on the mountain. Get in touch with me today!

FAQ

When should I start preparing my Big White property for winter?

Summer and early fall are ideal. Completing maintenance before contractors become busy and before snowfall arrives helps reduce the risk of emergency repairs.

Should I inspect my heating system every year?

Yes. Annual servicing helps ensure your heating system operates efficiently and reliably throughout the winter, particularly if your property sits vacant for periods of time.

Is late summer a good time to sell a Big White property?

Yes. Many buyers begin looking before ski season so they can complete their purchase and enjoy the property throughout the winter.

Do vacation properties need different insurance coverage?

Often they do. Coverage can vary depending on whether the property is owner-occupied, rented to guests, or left vacant for extended periods. Reviewing your policy annually is recommended.

Why work with a REALTOR® who lives and works at Big White year-round?

A full-time local REALTOR® understands the unique aspects of mountain ownership, including seasonal maintenance, rental demand, market timing, and resort-specific considerations that can influence both buying and selling decisions.

The post Preparing Your Big White Property for the 2026-27 Ski Season appeared first on ANDREW BRAFF - RE/MAX Kelowna/Big White Ski Resort.

Owning property at Big White Ski Resort comes with incredible perks. The mountain air, fresh snow, and awesome winter activities make it a place unlike anywhere else. But before the first big snowfall, every property owner should get ready. Whether you rent your place to vacationers or use it yourself, early preparation will ensure you’re good to go when the first snowfall hits. Winter can be hard on homes at Big White. The extreme cold, excess snow, and high demand from guests mean you need everything in tip-top shape. A little extra TLC now will protect your investment, save money, and ensure your property is comfortable all season. Here is how to prepare your Big White real estate for the winter ahead.

Get Ahead with a Winter Maintenance Checklist

A good winter starts with maintenance. Start by inspecting your roof. Look for any loose shingles or damage that could lead to leaks once the snow piles up. Big White sees heavy snowfall, so your roof must be ready to handle the weight. Check gutters and downspouts next. Clear away leaves and debris so melting snow can drain properly. If ice builds up, it can cause water damage or dangerous icicles.

Move inside and inspect your heating system. Have a professional service your furnace or boiler before the cold sets in. Replace filters and test the thermostat to make sure it’s accurate. If your property uses baseboard or radiant heating, check that all units work. It’s much easier to fix small issues when the weather is still mild.

Plumbing deserves special attention in mountain properties. Insulate exposed pipes, especially in basements, crawl spaces, and exterior walls. Burst pipes can cause major water damage, which is costly and hard to fix mid-season. Run water through each tap to make sure nothing is clogged or leaking.

If your property has a fireplace or wood stove, schedule a chimney cleaning. This helps prevent fires and improve heating efficiency. Stock up on firewood early if you plan to use it throughout the season.

Don’t forget safety systems. Replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Test your fire extinguishers and make sure they are easy to find. If your property has security cameras or smart locks, check that they’re online and working. A full inspection and tune-up now means fewer emergencies later. 

Preparing Real Estate Big White Ski Resort for Renters or Personal Use

Once your home is winter-proofed, decide how it will be used. Many owners rent their Big White properties during ski season. Others keep them for family and friends. Either way, you’ll want to get a few things ready before you’re there every weekend.

If you plan to rent, create a clear schedule for bookings. Many visitors secure accommodations months ahead, so list your property early. Check that your rental platform profiles are current and have accurate photos. Mention updates like a serviced furnace or a new snow removal plan. Small details can make your property more appealing to renters.

Inside, make sure the space is clean and stocked with essentials. Provide plenty of blankets, working lamps, and clean linens. Test all appliances, including ovens, dishwashers, and laundry machines. Vacationers notice when things don’t work. Make sure Wi-Fi is reliable since guests expect it even in the mountains.

If you use the property personally, stock up on supplies so you don’t have to think about it during the middle of the season. Keep extra food, batteries, and firewood on hand. Prepare a basic emergency kit with flashlights, blankets, and first aid items.

Finally, review your insurance policy. Confirm that your coverage includes winter damage and short-term rentals if applicable. The right policy can save you thousands if something goes wrong.

Stay on Top of Snow, Heat, and Plumbing

Snow is part of the charm at Big White, but it can also cause trouble. Heavy buildup can block driveways, bury decks, and stress roofs. Make sure you have a couple of snow shovels on hand in case you need to dig out a path. But, for the most part, snow removal is handled by Big White in the majority of the stratified buildings and communities. 

While stocking up on snow removal supplies, check that all paths and stairs have secure railings and traction mats. This keeps guests and family safe on icy days. Salt or sand can help, but avoid overuse to protect nearby landscaping and wood surfaces.

Inside, monitor heating systems regularly. Mountain homes can face sudden cold snaps, so set thermostats to maintain a steady temperature. Avoid turning off the heat, even when the property is empty. This prevents frozen pipes and keeps the interior stable. If you use a smart thermostat, set alerts for extreme temperature changes.

Plumbing can freeze fast in mountain conditions. Run faucets occasionally if you’re away for long stretches. Keep cabinet doors open under sinks to allow warm air to reach pipes. Drain and shut off outdoor water lines before the temperature drops below freezing.

Many owners install water leak detectors or temperature monitors for peace of mind. These small tools send alerts if something goes wrong, allowing quick action even when you’re off the mountain.

Contact us About Real Estate Big White Ski Resort

Preparation is the best way to protect your Big White ski resort real estate and make the most of the ski season. Start early and tackle maintenance issues before the first snowfall! If you’re thinking about buying, selling, or managing property at Big White Ski Resort, reach out to me today. I can help you find the best opportunities and keep your investment strong year-round!

FAQs

1. When should I start winter prep for my Big White property?

Start by mid-September. This gives time for repairs and service appointments before snow arrives.

2. Do I need to hire a snow removal company?

Yes, especially if you rent your property or won’t be there full-time. Reliable snow clearing prevents access and safety issues.

3. How often should I service my furnace or boiler?

Once a year before winter. A professional cleaning and inspection improves safety and efficiency.

4. What should I do to prevent frozen pipes?

Keep the heat steady, insulate exposed pipes, and drain outdoor lines. Never leave your home completely unheated in winter.

5. Can I manage my Big White rental remotely?

Yes. Many owners use property managers or smart home systems to monitor temperature, water, and security while away.

The post Preparing Real Estate Big White Ski Resort for the Winter appeared first on ANDREW BRAFF - RE/MAX Kelowna/Big White Ski Resort.

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!

The post Taking Care of Big White Realty in the Off-Season appeared first on ANDREW BRAFF - RE/MAX Kelowna/Big White Ski Resort.