There’s a particular kind of excitement at Big White in November. The first snowfalls have arrived, the mountain is slowly turning white again, and everyone is watching the forecast as another ski season approaches.

For those of us who live and work here year-round, it’s one of the most anticipated times of the year. After the quieter summer and fall months, the resort begins preparing to welcome skiers, snowboarders, families and visitors back to the mountain.

Big White Ski Resort is scheduled to open for the 2026–27 winter season on Thursday, November 26, weather and snow conditions permitting. And while there’s still time for Mother Nature to do her part, anticipation is building.

For many people, the beginning of ski season also brings back a familiar thought: wouldn’t it be incredible to have a place of our own up here?

The Countdown to Opening Day at Big White

There’s nothing quite like watching Big White come back to life.

As November progresses, the snow begins to settle into the trees, the Village prepares for another busy winter, and familiar faces start returning to the mountain. Property owners arrive to open their chalets and condos for the season, while visitors begin looking forward to their first turns on the slopes.

Big White has scheduled several activities to welcome the new season, including opening-day celebrations on November 26 and a Welcome to Winter event on November 28.

Of course, early-season skiing depends on snowfall and mountain conditions. The amount of terrain available at opening can vary, and it’s always worth checking the resort’s latest updates before heading up.

But the anticipation is part of the experience. For people who love Big White, the first snowfall is often all it takes to start thinking about winter weekends, family holidays and fresh powder.

Owning at Big White Changes the Way You Experience Ski Season

There’s a difference between visiting Big White for a ski holiday and having a place here that you can return to whenever you like.

When you own a property on the mountain, the experience becomes less about organizing a trip and more about enjoying a familiar place.

Your ski equipment has somewhere to stay. Your favourite restaurants and runs become part of your routine. You can invite friends and family for a weekend without arranging accommodation every time.

For families, a mountain property can become the setting for years of memories. Children learn to ski, holiday traditions develop, and weekends at Big White become something everyone looks forward to.

For others, the appeal is having a quiet mountain retreat where they can escape the city, enjoy the snow and spend time outdoors.

And for those who have the flexibility to stay longer, owning at Big White can mean experiencing the mountain on quieter weekdays, not just during peak holiday periods.

It’s a lifestyle that’s difficult to fully appreciate until you’ve spent time here.

What Kind of Big White Property Fits Your Lifestyle?

One of the things I always encourage buyers to consider is how they actually want to spend their time at Big White.

The right property for a couple looking for occasional ski weekends may be very different from what a family needs for extended winter holidays.

Condos and Townhomes Near the Village

For buyers who enjoy being close to restaurants, shops and resort activity, a condo or townhome near the Village Centre may be an excellent fit.

Some developments offer amenities such as hot tubs, ski storage, underground parking or shared facilities. Others are more straightforward, with fewer amenities and different ongoing expenses.

It’s important to look beyond the photographs and understand how the building operates, what the strata fees cover and how convenient the location really is.

Chalets and Detached Homes in Snow Pine Estates

Snow Pine Estates offers a different mountain experience.

With chalets and single-family-style homes set among the trees and ski terrain, the area appeals to buyers who want a more residential setting.

Depending on the property, there may be more room for family gatherings, equipment storage and longer stays.

Buyers should also consider snow removal, parking, maintenance and the property’s actual access to the ski runs.

Luxury Mountain Homes in Black Forest and Feathertop

For buyers looking for something more substantial, Black Forest and Feathertop include newer, high-end mountain homes as well as established properties.

Large windows, expansive living areas, timber and stone finishes, outdoor hot tubs and impressive mountain settings are among the features buyers may encounter.

These properties can offer a very different ownership experience from a compact resort condo, particularly for larger families or buyers who spend significant time on the mountain.

If you’re comparing property types, my earlier article, Which Big White Property Is Right for You? Comparing Condos, Townhomes and Ski Chalets, explores these differences in more detail.

Why Ski Access Matters More Than a Listing Description

One of the most appealing aspects of Big White real estate is the opportunity to own a property with convenient access to the slopes.

But the term ski-in, ski-out deserves a closer look.

Some properties offer direct access to groomed ski runs, while others require a short walk, a connecting trail or a particular route to reach the lifts.

The return trip can be just as important.

A property that looks conveniently located on a map may involve a different experience depending on snowfall, grooming, ability level and which lifts are operating.

For families with young children, that distinction can make a considerable difference.

When I’m showing properties, I want buyers to understand how they’ll actually get from their front door to the mountain and back again.

Read more in Ski-In, Ski-Out Living at Big White: What It’s Really Like (And What Buyers Should Watch For).

Is November Too Late to Buy a Big White Ski Property?

Not at all.

While purchasing before opening day may be difficult for buyers who are just beginning their search, November can still be a good time to explore available properties.

In fact, seeing Big White as the winter season begins can help buyers better understand the environment they’re purchasing into.

Snow accumulation, winter parking, building access, equipment storage and the relationship between residential developments and ski runs become much more relevant when the mountain is transitioning into winter.

Buyers should still take their time reviewing financing, insurance, property condition, strata documents and any restrictions affecting how the property can be used.

There’s no reason to rush into a purchase simply because ski season is approaching.

The right Big White property should work for your lifestyle and budget long after the excitement of opening day has passed.

Thinking About Selling Your Big White Property This Winter?

For property owners considering a sale, the return of ski season can provide an opportunity to showcase what makes their property appealing.

A chalet surrounded by fresh snow, a condo with convenient lift access or a townhome overlooking the ski terrain can tell a very different story in winter than it does during the summer.

However, successful marketing requires more than beautiful winter photographs.

Buyers want accurate information about the property, its expenses, maintenance responsibilities, amenities and location.

They also want to understand how the property compares with other available options.

Pricing and presentation should reflect the current market rather than assumptions about what buyers might be willing to pay simply because the ski season has begun.

If you’re considering selling, it’s worth having a conversation about your property’s position in the market before deciding when to list.

Big White Is More Than a Ski Resort

It’s easy to focus on the skiing when talking about Big White, particularly at this time of year.

But for people who own property here, the mountain offers much more than access to chairlifts.

It’s the opportunity to spend time with family, enjoy a change of pace, reconnect with friends and experience a community that has its own character.

There are quiet mornings watching snow fall outside the window, afternoons spent exploring the mountain and evenings gathered around a fireplace after a day outdoors.

And although winter is what attracts many buyers initially, Big White also has a quieter side during the spring, summer and fall.

For people who appreciate mountain living, those off-season months can become just as meaningful as the ski season itself.

Looking Forward to Another Winter at Big White

With opening day approaching, there’s plenty of excitement around the mountain.

Whether this is your twentieth season at Big White or you’re considering purchasing your first ski property, November is a wonderful reminder of why people are drawn here.

As Big White’s full-time resident REALTOR®, I have the opportunity to experience the mountain throughout the year, not just during the winter months.

That local perspective is something I bring to every conversation with buyers and sellers.

If you’ve been thinking about owning a property at Big White, or you’re considering selling your existing chalet, condo or townhome, I’d be happy to talk about your options.

Contact Andrew Braff to explore Big White real estate and find out what’s available as we head into the 2026–27 ski season.

Frequently Asked Questions About Big White’s 2026–27 Ski Season and Real Estate

When is Big White scheduled to open for the 2026–27 ski season?

Big White Ski Resort has scheduled opening day for Thursday, November 26, 2026. Opening is dependent on snowfall and mountain conditions, so visitors should check the resort’s official updates before travelling.

Is November a good time to look at Big White real estate?

Yes. November gives buyers an opportunity to see the mountain as winter conditions develop. It can be particularly helpful for understanding property access, snow management and proximity to ski terrain.

Can I buy a Big White property during ski season?

Absolutely. Big White real estate transactions take place throughout the year. Buyers should allow enough time for financing, inspections, insurance and other due diligence.

What is the difference between buying a condo and a chalet at Big White?

Condos may offer shared amenities and strata-managed maintenance, while detached chalets often provide more space and different ownership responsibilities. The best option depends on your intended use, budget and preferences.

Are there luxury homes available at Big White?

Yes. Areas such as Black Forest and Feathertop include substantial mountain homes, including newer luxury properties. Availability changes, so it’s worth reviewing current listings with a local REALTOR®.

Is every property at Big White ski-in, ski-out?

No. Ski access varies by location and individual property. Some homes connect directly to ski terrain, while others require walking or using connecting routes. Access can also depend on snow conditions and lift operations.

The post Opening Day at Big White Is Almost Here: Why There’s Nothing Quite Like Owning on the Mountain appeared first on ANDREW BRAFF - RE/MAX Kelowna/Big White Ski Resort.

It may still feel like summer in the Okanagan, but for people hoping to own a property at Big White this winter, the buying season can start well before the ski season does.

Waiting for the mountain to turn white before beginning your property search might seem natural. After all, that’s when it’s easiest to imagine mornings on the slopes, après-ski afternoons and weekends spent at your own mountain getaway. But there are some very practical advantages to looking at Big White real estate before the snow falls.

From seeing a property’s exterior clearly to having more time for inspections, financing and possession, late summer and early fall can be an excellent window for buyers who want to be ready when the lifts start turning.

You Can See What You’re Actually Buying

Snow makes Big White beautiful, but it can also cover a lot of the property you’re trying to evaluate.

Buying before winter gives you a much clearer look at exterior areas such as decks, stairs, retaining walls, drainage, foundations and landscaping. It can also be easier to assess parking, entrances and the grade surrounding a property.

That doesn’t mean you can’t successfully buy during the winter. Many properties at Big White change hands during ski season. It simply means that viewing before significant snowfall can give buyers a different perspective on the property.

This can be especially useful if you’re considering a detached chalet or townhome where there are more exterior components to evaluate.

There’s Time to Complete Your Due Diligence

A resort property purchase can involve considerations that aren’t always part of buying a traditional home in Kelowna.

Depending on the property, buyers may need to review:

• Strata documents and financial statements
• Bylaws and rental restrictions
• Short-term rental rules
• Parking and storage arrangements
• Ski access
• Property management agreements
• Insurance considerations
• Upcoming strata projects or special levies

If you’re purchasing primarily as an investment or intend to rent the property when you aren’t using it, there may be additional questions to answer before making a decision.

Starting early gives you time to understand exactly what you’re purchasing rather than feeling pressured to make a decision because the ski season has already begun.

You Can Be Settled Before Opening Day

For many Big White buyers, this is the biggest advantage.

If the goal is to use your new property during the 2026-27 ski season, purchasing before winter gives you time to close, furnish the property and get everything organized before your first ski weekend.

Depending on the property, you may want to arrange internet service, replace furniture, purchase linens and kitchen supplies, service a hot tub, organize ski storage or make minor improvements.

If you’re planning to offer the property as a vacation rental, you’ll have another list of things to prepare before welcoming guests.

Getting those jobs completed before ski season means that when the mountain opens, you can actually enjoy being there.

You’ll Understand Access Differently Without the Snow

“Ski-in, ski-out” is one of the most desirable phrases in Big White real estate, but ski access isn’t identical from one property to another.

Some homes offer incredibly convenient access directly to the slopes. Others may require a short walk, a particular route or a little local knowledge to understand exactly how you’ll get from your door to the lifts.

The same applies to vehicle access.

Seeing a property before winter can help you understand driveways, parking areas, walking routes and the relationship between the property and the surrounding terrain.

Then, with the help of someone who knows the mountain, you can understand how those same areas function once they’re covered in snow.

If ski access is one of your top priorities, read Ski-In, Ski-Out Living at Big White: What It’s Really Like (And What Buyers Should Watch For) before starting your search.

You Have Time to Think About How You’ll Really Use the Property

One of the most important questions I ask Big White buyers is surprisingly simple:

How do you actually want to use the property?

A couple looking for a weekend ski getaway may have very different priorities from a family hoping to spend every school holiday at Big White.

An investor may prioritize rental appeal and operating costs, while someone planning to keep the property for their own use might care much more about storage, privacy, views or proximity to the Village.

Before becoming focused on individual listings, determine whether you primarily want:

• A personal ski property
• A family vacation home
• A short-term rental investment
• A combination of personal use and rental income
• A long-term mountain property

That decision can significantly narrow your search.

If you’re still deciding between property types, Which Big White Property Is Right for You? Comparing Condos, Townhomes and Ski Chalets is a good place to start.

Condos, Townhomes and Chalets Offer Very Different Ownership Experiences

Big White isn’t a single real estate market made up of interchangeable properties.

A condo can offer relatively simple ownership, particularly for buyers who don’t want to worry about exterior maintenance. A townhome can provide additional space while retaining some of the benefits of strata living. A detached chalet may offer more privacy and flexibility, but it can also come with greater maintenance responsibilities.

Strata fees, amenities, rental opportunities and location can vary considerably between developments.

That’s why I encourage buyers to compare more than price and square footage.

A less expensive property with higher ongoing costs may not necessarily be the better value. Similarly, paying more for a location that dramatically improves ski access or rental appeal could make sense for a particular buyer.

The right property is the one that fits how you intend to use it.

Buying Before Winter Doesn’t Mean You Should Rush

There is an important distinction between starting your search early and rushing into a purchase.

You don’t need to buy a property simply because you want to be at Big White this winter.

Starting your search before ski season gives you an opportunity to learn the market.

Look at different neighbourhoods. Compare strata developments. Understand what your budget buys. Ask about rental potential. Learn which locations provide the type of ski access you want.

By the time the right property appears, you’ll be in a much better position to recognize it.

Financing a Big White Property Can Be Different

Buyers should also speak with their lender or mortgage broker early in the process.

Financing a resort or vacation property can differ from financing a conventional principal residence. Property type, intended use, rental arrangements and even characteristics of a particular development can influence financing options.

If you intend to rely on rental income as part of your ownership strategy, discuss that with your financial professional before you begin making offers.

Getting financing organized early removes another potential source of stress from the purchase.

Think Beyond This Ski Season

It’s easy to fall in love with Big White in January.

The mountain is covered in snow, the Village is busy and you’re surrounded by everything that makes the resort such a special winter destination.

But a good real estate purchase should make sense beyond one ski holiday.

Consider how often you’ll realistically use the property, what it will cost to own, whether you want to rent it, how much maintenance you’re comfortable with and whether the property will continue to meet your needs several years from now.

Big White also has a growing summer season, with mountain biking, hiking and other warm-weather activities adding another dimension to property ownership.

For a closer look at the mountain outside ski season, see Big White Summer Living: What It’s Really Like in the Off-Season.

Local Knowledge Matters When Buying at Big White

Buying a mountain property involves details that aren’t always obvious from an MLS® listing.

Two properties that look similar online can offer very different experiences once you consider ski access, sun exposure, parking, strata rules, rental potential, location and how different parts of the mountain function during the winter.

That is where local knowledge becomes particularly valuable.

As Big White’s only full-time REALTOR®, I live and work on the mountain throughout the year. I can help you compare properties based not only on bedrooms, bathrooms and asking price, but on what ownership will actually look like once winter arrives.

If you’d like to own at Big White for the 2026-27 ski season, you don’t have to wait for snow to start looking. Contact me to start exploring Big White properties now and find out what is available before the winter season gets underway.

Frequently Asked Questions About Buying at Big White Before Ski Season

Is August too early to start looking for a Big White ski property?

No. Starting in late summer gives you time to learn the market, view different property types, arrange financing and complete due diligence without the pressure of already being into the ski season.

Can I buy a Big White property before the ski season and be moved in for winter?

Potentially, yes. Timing depends on the property, financing, subjects and agreed possession date. Buyers hoping to use a property for the coming ski season should start the process early rather than relying on a last-minute purchase.

Is it easier to inspect a Big White property before the snow arrives?

There can be advantages. Exterior components, drainage, decks, stairs, driveways and surrounding terrain may be easier to evaluate without significant snow coverage.

Should I buy a condo, townhome or chalet at Big White?

It depends on your budget, intended use, desired amount of maintenance, rental plans and preferred location. Each type of Big White property offers a different ownership experience.

Can I rent my Big White property when I’m not using it?

Some properties may offer short-term rental opportunities, but buyers should confirm current strata bylaws, applicable regulations and other requirements for the specific property before purchasing.

Do I need a local REALTOR® to buy at Big White?

You aren’t required to use a REALTOR® who lives at Big White, but resort properties have unique considerations. Working with someone who understands the mountain, individual developments, ski access, strata considerations and seasonal ownership can provide valuable context when comparing properties.

The post Why Buyers Start Shopping for Big White Ski Properties Before the Snow Falls appeared first on ANDREW BRAFF - RE/MAX Kelowna/Big White Ski Resort.

Real estate at Big White is very different from real estate in a city. It moves to the rhythm of the ski season, visitor demand, and the unique layout of the mountain itself. Because of that, experience on the hill is not just helpful. It can make a real difference in the outcome when you buy or sell.

Many agents from Kelowna help clients with Big White properties from time to time. But living on the mountain and working here every day gives a completely different level of insight.

Andrew Braff of Big White Property Group and RE/MAX is the only full-time REALTOR® who lives and works at Big White year round. He has spent decades skiing the mountain, working with local owners, and helping buyers understand how the resort really functions. That local perspective can change everything when it comes to pricing, negotiations, and choosing the right property.

Why Big White Is Not a Typical Real Estate Market

Most buyers are used to thinking about neighbourhoods, commute times, and school districts. At Big White, the important factors look very different.

Buyers and sellers need to think about things like:

• True ski access and how it works in winter
• Proximity to lifts and village amenities
• Strata rules and rental restrictions
• Building reputation and maintenance history
• Seasonal demand during ski season

Small details about location on the mountain can affect value more than square footage or interior finishes. That is why building specific knowledge matters so much here.

The Advantage for Buyers

For buyers, the biggest challenge at Big White is understanding what you are really buying. Two condos might look similar online, but they can feel very different once you are actually skiing the mountain.

Andrew helps buyers see the difference by explaining:

• Which buildings have the best ski access
• Where snow conditions affect usability
• Which areas are quieter or more active
• What buildings tend to hold their value over time

When conditions allow, Andrew often shows properties on skis. That gives buyers a real feel for how the property works during the heart of the ski season.

The Advantage for Sellers

Selling at Big White also benefits from local insight. Pricing and timing matter more than many sellers expect.

Andrew understands how buyers compare buildings, how ski access affects demand, and when interest on the mountain tends to peak. That knowledge helps sellers position their property properly from the beginning.

Marketing also needs to reflect the ski lifestyle. Buyers want to understand the experience of the property, not just the floor plan. Local knowledge helps highlight the features that truly matter to resort buyers.

Relationships Matter on the Mountain

After decades at Big White, Andrew knows the people and the history behind many of the buildings and developments on the hill. Those relationships often help transactions move more smoothly.

Whether it is answering questions about a strata, understanding the background of a development, or connecting buyers with trusted local service providers, those connections can make the process easier for everyone involved.

Why Working With a Full Time Big White REALTOR® Matters

Big White is not a market you learn from a few occasional visits. Living here year round gives Andrew a day to day understanding of how the resort evolves each season.

He knows the buildings. He knows the terrain. He knows the community.

That level of familiarity helps buyers make confident decisions and helps sellers present their property in the best possible light.

Thinking About Buying or Selling at Big White?

Whether you are considering selling your property or searching for the right ski home, working with someone who truly knows the mountain makes the process far easier.

Andrew Braff has spent decades living, skiing, and selling real estate at Big White. That experience helps clients navigate the resort market with clarity and confidence.

If you are thinking about buying or selling at Big White, reaching out to Andrew is a great place to start.

Big White Real Estate FAQ

Do I need a local REALTOR® to buy or sell at Big White?

Yes. Resort real estate has unique factors that most city markets do not have. Ski access, building layout, snow conditions, and rental rules all influence value and usability. A REALTOR® who lives on the mountain can explain these differences clearly.

Who is the most experienced REALTOR® at Big White?

Andrew Braff is the only full time REALTOR® living and working at Big White year round. With decades of experience on the mountain, he provides insight that visiting agents cannot easily match.

Is Big White a good place to invest in real estate?

Many buyers are drawn to Big White because of its strong ski culture, limited inventory, and appeal as a vacation destination. Like any resort market, investment potential depends on building location, rental rules, and long term demand.

When is the best time to sell property at Big White?

Timing often depends on ski season activity and buyer interest. Many sellers see strong attention when the mountain is busy and buyers are actively visiting the resort. A local REALTOR® can help identify the right timing.

What types of homes are available at Big White?

Buyers will find a mix of ski in ski out condos, townhomes, and mountain chalets. Each building and area has its own characteristics, which is why local guidance is so valuable when choosing the right property.

The post Buying or Selling at Big White? Why Local Knowledge Makes or Breaks Your Result appeared first on ANDREW BRAFF - RE/MAX Kelowna/Big White Ski Resort.