Whistler Monthly Stats December 2011

Click here to download Whistler Monthly Stats for December 2011

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2011/ 2012 winter season business update

Tourism Whistler update on business levels for the 2011/ 2012 winter season.

With significant wins in December and January and with February and March pacing well ahead of last year, this winter is shaping up to be one of – if not the – best winter season in recent years (post the 2008-recession) with regards to room night volumes.

Please note some highlights below:

Business Levels in Whistler:

This past December was our busiest December on record in terms of room nights and saw a double digit increase over last winter.

January is looking very strong compared to last year, and February, March and April are all pacing ahead.

This winter is on track to be more than 10% ahead of last winter in terms of room night bookings.

Several factors affecting the positive results include:

The success of Tourism Whistler’s efforts, which include:

1.      Enhanced Whistler profile from increased investment into brand marketing in key target markets – aimed at leveraging the global awareness garnered from the 2010 Winter Games.

2.      Gains in early bookings through a resort-wide early-booking program in partnership with our in-resort mountain and hotel stakeholders and our in-market tour operators.

3.      Significant interest generated by the Whistler Sabbatical Project – Tourism Whistler’s 2011/ 2012 winter marketing campaign.

Whistler’s snow advantage – particularly compared to many major U.S. ski resorts.

Considerations:

The volatility in the international economic climate has resulted in a shift in consumer behavior which experts suggest is permanent. How people spend has changed and travellers are seeking greater value for money than ever before.

Regardless of budget – from moderate to luxury – people are looking to get the biggest bang for their buck – and Whistler is continuing to work hard, ensuring we deliver upon that.

We recognize how fortunate we are. Mother Nature has been very kind to Whistler this season – and we’re pleased to see other resorts starting to receive snow, as that is good for the entire ski industry for the long-term.

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Apres Ski Client Gathering at Bearfoot Bistro

Reminder to our guests that our Apres ski cocktail gathering is tomorrow December 28th at the Bearfoot Bistro between 2-4pm. We will have a cooking demonstration for the kids and a sundae bar. Come mingle and be jolly. Attire is ski wear!

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2011 Holiday Gift Guide

The holiday season is upon us once again and finding the perfect gift for friends and loved ones is a top priority. If you need a bit of inspiration, this edition of our annual gift guide offers some of our favorite suggestions at a wide range of price points for the diverse personalities on your list, from the jet-set traveler to environmentally conscious consumer.

The term “eco-friendly” remains ubiquitous and the elegant options in this arena continue to grow. Wine lovers with a rustic style are sure to love the Rail Yard Wine Rack from Rail Yard Studios. 16 pieces of rail dating from 1908 form the wine rack shelves jutting from a striking, golden stained solid piece of hickory. The feet of the rack are formed by railroad switch plate cuffs. Each unique piece is individually numbered with a salvaged railroad tie nail. $995; RailyardStudios.com

Another great place to find novel repurposed products and gifts if Hipcycle. A wide range of interesting “upcycled” options is perfect for someone who appreciates both green initiatives and fine design. Selections include Recycled Teak Nesting Tables, made from reclaimed Indian teak the versatile tables marry a smart functionality with a bold look. $399; Hipcycle.com

For a table centerpiece, porcelain creations from renowned KleinReid add a sophisticated, contemporary look. Shown in gallery and museum exhibitions, the chic vases and bowls are also sought by celebrities and public figures, including First Lady Michelle Obama. Their new Prime collection features a variety of handmade porcelain pieces atop a hand-turned walnut base. $144 – $285; KleinReid.com

From globally sourced and artistic products to something for a creative globetrotter – the Tiffany & Co. passport cover. The leather cover in Tiffany’s signature blue is a stylish way for the elite traveler to protect their important document and also show off a keen fashion sense. $145; Tiffany.com

Also great for the jet-setter always on the go is something to help store their important data. An elegant way to consolidate files and save space is the sleek Christofle Pebble USB key. Handcrafted by skilled silversmiths, the device offers 4 GB of storage and easily attaches to keys or slides into pockets or purses. $130; Christofle.com

A perhaps more masculine alternative is the Swiss Army USB that combines data storage with the foldout design the company is known for. Available in a variety of colors, styles include storage device/bladed multi-tool combinations and a more travel-friendly bladeless version for frequent flyers. $45 – $500 depending on features; SwissArmy.com

Weary road warriors or anyone with a hectic schedule can rejuvenate with Woodley & Bunny’s Anti Fatigue Mist. The anti-bacterial and anti-pollutant spray revitalizes and brightens skin while also smoothing its texture and tone. A true shot of energy. $65; WoodleyandBunny.com

An uncommon twist on a traditional gift is provided with the Sprout biodegradable watch. Yes, a biodegradable watch – but don’t worry, it won’t disintegrate on the gift recipient’s wrist. Made from a corn resin, the watch will last a lifetime of normal wear and tear, but will break down in a compost environment. The unique timepiece also features a natural mother of pearl dial and runs on a mercury-free battery. $60 women’s, $65 men’s; SproutWatches.com

For a new baby or expectant parents, consider the organic products from Coyuchi. Innovators in organic cotton bedding, they have introduced an extensive line of baby wear. Instill an environmental awareness early with organic clothing, crib bedding and bath accessories that are naturally soft against a baby’s skin. Jumpers $28, Blankets from $45, Bath Set $6 – $59; Coyuchi.com

Give the gift of functional whimsy with Skybar Chill Cubes – stainless steel cubes to chill cocktails without the risk of watering them down. The cubes are washable and can be stored in the freezer. $40; available on Amazon.com

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October 2011 Housing Market Update REBGV


The Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver Housing Market Update for October 2011 with REBGV president Rosario Setticasi.

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Season Kick Off Video

Whistler Blackcomb 2011/2012 Season Kick Off Video from Sherpas Cinema from Whistler Blackcomb on Vimeo.

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‘Follow Your Heart’

Here is a quote from the late Steve Jobs that I wanted to share:-

“When I was 17, I read a quote that went something like this, “If you live each day as if it was your last, someday you’ll most certainly be right.” Since then…I have looked in the mirror every morning and asked myself, “If today were the last day of my life, would I want to do what I am about to do today?” And whenever the answer has been “no” for too many days in a row, I know I need to change something. Your time is limited…Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition…Everything else is secondary.”

- From Steve Jobs’s June 12, 2005, Stanford Commencement Address

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Whistler Real Estate Activity

Here is a link to view all the properties that have sold in Whistler over the last 30 days.

Here is a link to view all the Whistler properties that are newly listed over the last 30 days.

Pemberton Real Estate Activity

Here is a link to view all the properties that have sold in Pemberton over the last 30 days.

Here is a link to view all the Pemberton properties that are newly listed over the last 30 days.

Whistler Market Report

We are still experiencing a good level of inventory with a total of 879 properties currently on the market in Whistler as of today’s date. Over the past 30 days there has been a total of 48 sales and 97 new listings.

Comparing third quarter sales results with second quarter results for 2011, we have seen a reduction in sales volume, with a total of 121 unit sales in Q3 2011 compared to 144 unit sales in Q2 2011. However, the number of sales has increased by 10% when comparing the thirdquarter of 2010 with the third quarter of 2011 and dollar volume has seen an increase of just over $2.32% over the same period.

Looking at unit sales for the third quarter year on year over the past 5 years, sales have certainly levelled off since a dramatic drop in 2008 as shown in the chart below.

When assessing the Median Sales Price of various property types for Q3 over the past 5 years the following chart proves interesting.

In the last month there have been some great deals on shared ownership properties so it could be worth taking a second look at this type of ownership. You own Freehold Title to a percentage of the entire property, e.g. quarter share. In this case you are able to use the property for 1 week per month. If you decide not to use it any particular month you can rent out your week to generate some income to cover expenses

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Official Community Plan Whistler Resort Municipality

Whistler Offical Community Plan Letter to Property Owners

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What is happening in the market?

HERE ARE THE FACTS. IN JULY, WE HAD A TOTAL OF 33 SALES WHICH IS DOWN 10% FROM JULY OF LAST YEAR AND 40% BELOW JUNE 2011. BUYERS SLOWED IN JULY, SELLERS REMAINED ACTIVE.

OUR TOTAL INVENTORY FOR LISTINGS IS AT 1174 UP FROM 1121 IN JUNE WITH A TOTAL OF 143 NEW LISTINGS.

YOU MAY BE WONDERING HOW IT IS DETERMINED WHETHER IT IS A BUYERS OR A SELLER’S MARKET. Continue reading

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