“You can make tons of money from buying a property in Whistler and renting it on AirBnB!” …. This seems to be a common thing I hear, so is it true?

Well, yes and no.

You can certainly earn some great revenue with a Whistler airbnb property. But its pay to play i’m afraid.

I tell my clients that you typically need around 50% (or in many cases even more) downpayment in order to cover costs, if you require a management company to handle the operation of the rental. Those who can handle that personally can either do even better with their returns, or require less downpayment to enter the market.

It also greatly depends on how you view your investment.

For some, simply having a consistent place to use and call home when in Whistler, while covering some expenses with revenues is a great way at looking at their investment, and frankly a way that I’m a big advocate for.

Or, if you need to cover costs at the very least or even enter the realms of positive cash flow then you’ll need to delve into the numbers a lot more.

So, covering costs… how much do you need to put down?

Well, there are a huge number of variables which will impact this question, but if we take a very average approach to this, you might come up with the following:

  • Assume an average 2 bedroom that can be rented nightly, this is approximately $1.7M right now.
  • Average gross rental rates are approximately $80-90,000 per year.
  • Most management companies charge 28-30% of gross revenue.
  • That means that your adjusted gross revenue after management expense is more like $60-70,000/year.
  • subtract your strata fees, property taxes and tourism Whistler fees, which on average total approximately $15,000/year based on the sales stats for 2 bedroom sales in the last 6 months, which gives you a net result of between $45-55,000/year, or $3750-4600/mo.

So, how much mortgage can you cover with $3750-4600/mo? Right now at the time of writing this, mortgage costs are approximately $615 for every $100,000 borrowed based on Dominion Lending figures for a 5 year fixed mortgage.

That means that you can cover approximately $600,000-750,000 worth of mortgage payments with your net revenue.

So, your $1.7M purchase, with up to $750,000 worth of mortgage covered with revenues means you’re looking at needed a downpayment close to $1million. Or approximately 60%.

Now imagine you don’t need management fees because you do it yourself… now you’re in the money! But for the majority of people that’s just not feasible.

What about entry level stuff? Things like a Gondola Village unit?

These places are small, 400sq ft 1 bedroom units in Creekside and represent our most common entry level nightly rental product.

They currently sell between $750,000 (original, poor to average condition, poor location in complex) to $1million for renovated, good location, great condition units.

These places on average can generate upwards of $65,000/year. And if we do the analysis as above we get the following:

  • $45k adjusted gross after 30% management.
  • About $9k in strata fees, property taxes and tourism Whistler fees per year.
  • So about $35+k in net revenue, or about $3000/mo average’d out.
  • That enables approximately $480,000 worth of mortgage payment capacity based on the same $615/mo per $100,000 borrowed noted above.
  • So for a good condition unit (which is what you would need to obtain those revenues) you’re going to need around 50% down.

So there you have it for entry level 1 bedrooms, and average 2 bedroom units. 50-60% downpayment needed to cover costs of mortgage, strata fee and tourism Whistler fees.

Obviously there are outliers to these analyses, and there are many factors to consider. I will say however that most management companies suggest it makes more sense financially to go for a 3 or 4 bed over a 2 bed unit. The rental options are greater and the properties themselves are rarer.

But what about the equity and appreciation side of the investment argument?

Covering all costs and even having positive cash flow are obviously nice things to have! But don’t forget about the basics too; building equity and gaining appreciation.

The benefit to building equity through a place in Whistler is that you have a place to use in WHISTLER! I mean come on… who doesn’t want that?? We’re also exempt from any current Foreign Buyer ban, we represent close to 25% of all tourism dollars in BC and Whistler is now on the map for the ultra Buyers; people who used to spend their millions elsewhere are coming here in hoards. That speaks fairly highly for future property values in my mind.

Whistler condos and townhomes have appreciated 245% since January 2013. WOW.

 

See Whistler condo and townhome listings below!

15 4700  Glacier Drive, Benchlands

15 4700 Glacier Drive 15, Whistler

3.54.521922
Welcome to Pinnacle Ridge, where mountain living meets unparalleled convenience. This 3-bedroom plus den, 4.5-bathroom townhome is perfectly situated on the slopes of Blackcomb Mou …more
RE/MAX Sea to Sky Real Estate
$5,998,000
8378  Glen Abbey Lane, Green Lake Estates

8378 Glen Abbey Lane, Whistler

4422282
Introducing 8378 Glen Abbey Lane at Green Lake Estates. This stunning 4-bedroom, 4-bathroom townhome is nestled in the highly sought-after Goldenwood complex with a view that will …more
RE/MAX Sea to Sky Real Estate
$5,898,000
8315  Glen Abbey Lane, Green Lake Estates

8315 Glen Abbey Lane, Whistler

4423432
Goldenwood is a luxurious, gated community located in the distinguished Green Lake Estates neighbourhood. 8315 Glen Abbey Lane is ideally located on the fairway of the 16th hole of …more
Engel and Volkers Whistler
$4,990,000
4829  Casabella Crescent, Village

4829 Casabella Crescent, Whistler

33.515842
Stunning 3 bedroom townhome with unobstructed views of Blackcomb Mountain and within walking distance to Whistler Village! Welcome to this fabulous townhome and the ability to ren …more
RE/MAX Sea to Sky Real Estate
$3,395,000
4751  Settebello Place, Village

4751 Settebello Place, Whistler

3315082
Welcome to this spacious 3-bedroom townhome in the highly desirable Montebello neighborhood. First time to market, the sellers handpicked 4751 Settebello Dr at the development stag …more
Engel and Volkers Whistler
$3,199,000
25 2250  Nordic Drive, Nordic

25 2250 Nordic Drive 25, Whistler

2.52.515602
Freshly updated and renovated unit #25 in sought after Taluswood is the Whistler retreat you have been looking for. Ski or bike home right to your front door, via the Dave Murray D …more
Stilhavn Real Estate Services – Whistler
$2,825,000
10 8030  Nicklaus North Boulevard, Green Lake Estates

10 8030 Nicklaus North Boulevard 10, Whistler

32.517112
Welcome to this exquisite Englewood Green townhome nestled in prestigious Nicklaus North, home of the Nicklaus North Golf Course This beautifully renovated 3-bedroom townhome boast …more
RE/MAX Sea to Sky Real Estate
$2,770,000
4 2641  Whistler Road, Nordic

4 2641 Whistler Road 4, Whistler

3.5216172
Welcome to one of Whistler’s most coveted locales: Powderwood. House #4 holds a position of unmatched privacy, boasting one of the largest backyards enveloped by lush greenery. …more
RE/MAX Sea to Sky Real Estate
$2,699,000
1 2641  Whistler Road, Nordic

1 2641 Whistler Road 1, Whistler

3.5316792
Powderwood is strategically located between the Whistler Village and Creekside. Take advantage of the Whistler Lifestyle, with a trail that leads to the Dave Murray Ski run, then …more
Engel and Volkers Whistler
$2,650,000
6 2221  Gondola Way, Whistler Creek

6 2221 Gondola Way 6, Whistler

2.5213122
Sundance is a fabulous complex that is conveniently located just a short stroll down Gondola Way and right into the Whistler Mountain gondola line – a wonderful perk for the wint …more
Engel and Volkers Whistler
$2,495,000
203 4910  Spearhead Place, Benchlands

203 4910 Spearhead Place 203, Whistler

2210342
Relax by your fireplace or rejuvenate in the hot tub after skiing right to your front door of the Woodrun Lodge. One of the best ski in – ski out locations in all of Whistler, th …more
RE/MAX Sea to Sky Real Estate
$2,345,000
310-311 4573  Chateau Boulevard, Benchlands

310-311 4573 Chateau Boulevard 310-311, Whistler

2.5211562
Discover your mountain retreat at Glacier Lodge in Whistler, BC! This charming 2-bed + loft, 2-bath is located at the base of Blackcomb Mountain, a favourite ski-in/ski-out locatio …more
Macdonald Realty Group Inc.
$2,300,000
301 2202  Gondola Way, Whistler Creek

301 2202 Gondola Way 301, Whistler

2212462
Discover the ultimate Whistler experience at First Tracks Lodge. Nestled at the base of Creekside, this sought-after location offers unparalleled access to skiing and biking. Enjoy …more
RE/MAX Sea to Sky Real Estate
$2,249,000
5 4201  Sunshine Place, Village

5 4201 Sunshine Place 5, Whistler

2212502
Discover this exceptionally rare two-bedroom tucked in the heart of the Whistler Village. A true hidden gem, this property has remained off the market for 36 years. Oversized windo …more
RE/MAX Sea to Sky Real Estate
$2,150,000
6 4857  Painted Cliff Road, Benchlands

6 4857 Painted Cliff Road 6, Whistler

2211982
Step right onto Blackcomb ski hill, just a 2 minute easy walk from this spacious and renovated 2 bed 2 bath in the sought after Benchlands area. A spacious 1 level townhome, privat …more
Stilhavn Real Estate Services – Whistler
$1,999,000
219 2202  Gondola Way, Whistler Creek

219 2202 Gondola Way 219, Whistler

1.529702
Experience living ski-in ski-out in Whistler Creekside! Located just steps from Creekside Gondola, First Tracks Lodge is a distinctive mountain property with wood and stone accents …more
Stilhavn Real Estate Services – Whistler
$1,995,000
324 3309  Ptarmigan Place, Blueberry

324 3309 Ptarmigan Place 324, Whistler

2.5214692
Welcome home to 324 Greyhawk. Conveniently located in prestigious Blueberry Hill, this top floor, south facing suite features 1,470 square feet spread over two-bedrooms + loft with …more
Engel and Volkers Whistler
$1,995,000
1503 3050  Hillcrest Drive, Alta Vista

1503 3050 Hillcrest Drive 1503, Whistler

2.5315492
#1503 Alta Vista Pointe presents a delightful 2-bedroom + loft, 3-bathroom townhome, thoughtfully updated and impeccably maintained. Spanning 1,549 sq/ft of functional interior liv …more
Engel and Volkers Whistler
$1,748,000
89 4335  Northlands Boulevard, Village

89 4335 Northlands Boulevard 89, Whistler

229552
Beautifully renovated 2-bedroom townhome nestled in the heart of Whistler Village. This exquisite residence boasts two updated bathrooms, including a master ensuite, as well as two …more
Stilhavn Real Estate Services – Whistler
$1,699,000
44 4335  Northlands Boulevard, Village

44 4335 Northlands Boulevard 44, Whistler

228592
Centrally located in one of Whistler Village’s most popular developments you will find this wonderfully appointed, ground level entry 2 bedroom & 2 bathroom Lagoons townhome. Offer …more
Engel and Volkers Whistler
$1,659,000
812 4320  Sundial Crescent, Village

812 4320 Sundial Crescent 812, Whistler

227852
Pan Pacific Mountainside is a superbly located full service hotel within the heart of Whistler Village. There is no better place to spend your time while vacationing in Whistler – …more
Engel and Volkers Whistler
$1,499,000
44 4388  Northlands Boulevard, Village

44 4388 Northlands Boulevard 44, Whistler

116182
With a desirable Whistler Village location, this renovated 1 bedroom townhome places you within walking distance of all the amenities, including the free village shuttle. Whether y …more
RE/MAX Sea to Sky Real Estate
$1,249,000
781/782 4090  Whistler Way, Village

781/782 4090 Whistler Way 781/782, Whistler

228762
2 bedroom suites in the Westin Resort & spa Whistler rarely come up for sale. 781/782 are a rare gem, offering a connecting studio and one-bedroom suite over 876 sf with stunning …more
RE/MAX Sea to Sky Real Estate
$1,225,000
53 4335  Northlands Boulevard, Village

53 4335 Northlands Boulevard 53, Whistler

116202
The Hideout is a beautifully renovated 1 bedroom townhome conveniently located within the heart of Whistler Village, yet it enjoys a peaceful, private setting within a wooded area. …more
RE/MAX Sea to Sky Real Estate
$1,175,000
4415 4299  Blackcomb Way, Village

4415 4299 Blackcomb Way 4415, Whistler

229722
This luxurious suite at the Pan Pacific Whistler Village Centre is a perfect mountain getaway. A spacious open-concept living and dining area features a cozy gas fireplace and a fu …more
RE/MAX
$999,900
12 2213  Marmot Place, Whistler Creek

12 2213 Marmot Place 12, Whistler

115162
Bright open plan living and natural light in this well located, nightly rental zoned 1 bed townhome. Fully equipped modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances and breakfast bar …more
Stilhavn Real Estate Services – Whistler
$999,000
121 2005  Nordic Place, Nordic

121 2005 Nordic Place 121, Whistler

318402
This spacious top-floor condo features three bedrooms and is situated in a prime corner location. Enjoy the sun and stunning views of Sproatt and Rainbow mountains. It’s within wa …more
RE/MAX Sea to Sky Real Estate
$979,000
329 2050  Lake Placid, Whistler Creek

329 2050 Lake Placid 329, Whistler

126162
Lake Placid Lodge is located within steps of Whistler Mountain’s NEW Creekside Gondola, so park the car in the underground and be first to the lift! After a day on the hill, enj …more
Engel and Volkers Whistler
$979,000
3 2138  Sarajevo Drive, Whistler Creek

3 2138 Sarajevo Drive 3, Whistler

114002
Spotless and well maintained Gondola Village unit just a few steps up to your new front door! This unit has everything one could want in a Whistler home away from home Fantastic vi …more
Stilhavn Real Estate Services – Whistler
$925,000
725-727 4050  Whistler Way, Village

725-727 4050 Whistler Way 725-727, Whistler

1211452
INVESTMENT PROPERTY! The Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa offers the perfect mix of personal usage and revenue. With 1146 sq. ft., these 2 lock off units (#725 and #727) can be used se …more
Stilhavn Real Estate Services – Whistler
$909,000
529/531 4050  Whistler Way, Village

529/531 4050 Whistler Way 529/531, Whistler

1211462
1 bed, 2 bath, 1146 sqft – INVESTMENT PROPERTY! The Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa offers the perfect mix of personal usage and revenue. This “1 bed lock off suite” which is 2 sepa …more
Stilhavn Real Estate Services – Whistler
$899,000
602/604 4050  Whistler Way, Village

602/604 4050 Whistler Way 602/604, Whistler

1211662
Arguably the best location for accessing the ski hill and everything Whistler has to offer! The Hilton Whistler Resort is an unrestricted owner-use hotel condo. Tastefully refurbi …more
RE/MAX Sea to Sky Real Estate
$899,000
309/311 4050  Whistler Way, Village

309/311 4050 Whistler Way 309/311, Whistler

1211462
Hilton is perfectly located at the base of Whistler and Blackcomb Village gondolas and only steps away from all Whistler Village’s shops and restaurants. This one bedroom lock-off …more
$819,000
556 4050  Whistler Way, Village

556 4050 Whistler Way 556, Whistler

117412
Hilton is perfectly located at the base of Whistler and Blackcomb Village gondolas and only steps away from all Whistler Village’s shops and restaurants. This unit is a very rare f …more
Macdonald Realty Group Inc.
$595,000
DP4 1400  Alta Lake Road, Whistler Creek

Dp4 1400 Alta Lake Road Dp4, Whistler

0.514842
TAMARISK – Penthouse #D-P4 located along the shores of Alpha Lake in popular Whistler Creekside. This spacious & bright, cozy Studio condominium home is located on top floor of Bui …more
Engel and Volkers Whistler
$585,000
103 2109  Whistler Road, Whistler Creek

103 2109 Whistler Road 103, Whistler

0.513272
Charming studio on the quiet side of Highland Annex offers the perfect mountain getaway in an enviable location minutes from the Creekside Gondola – NIGHTLY RENTALS PERMITTED. With …more
RE/MAX Sea to Sky Real Estate
$579,000
205 2109  Whistler Road, Whistler Creek

205 2109 Whistler Road 205, Whistler

0.513272
Looking for a mountain getaway or a revenue generating property? Situated just a short stroll from the base of the new Whistler Creekside Gondola, shopping, restaurants and the Val …more
RE/MAX Sea to Sky Real Estate
$519,000
257 4050  Whistler Way, Village

257 4050 Whistler Way 257, Whistler

0.513702
Introducing a charming studio suite with 396 square feet of living space in the prestigious Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa. This well-designed property offers a convenient location a …more
RE/MAX Sea to Sky Real Estate
$299,000
6B 2561  Tricouni Place, Bayshores

6b 2561 Tricouni Place 6b, Whistler

3211952
Lifestyle investment! Nestled in the quiet hamlet of Bayshores The Seasons is a short distance from the new Creekside gondola, Creekside village, Valley trail, lakes, parks and fo …more
Engel and Volkers Whistler
$49,000
5G 2561  Tricouni Place, Bayshores

5g 2561 Tricouni Place 5g, Whistler

3211952
Lifestyle investment! Nestled in the quiet hamlet of Bayshores The Seasons is a short distance from the new Creekside gondola, Creekside village, Valley trail, lakes, parks and fo …more
Engel and Volkers Whistler
$49,000