Changes at Blue Mountain
This is the final part of this 4-part series
Intrawest and Blue Mountain know that in order for the resort to remain vibrant and solvent, they need to keep visitors coming to the resort. Since Fortress purchased Intrawest, they focused on cutting capital expenditures and reducing operations which did not prove to work.
The resort now focuses on bringing special events and experiences to the village. Almost every week-end, there is a festival or special event taking place such as the centurion bike race, the Apple Harvest Festival, Music Series, Beach parties and art shows. They are linking to other local activity providers such as Scenic Caves adventure tours (you gotta go zip-lining!), La Scandinave Spa and various Adventure Tour operators.
This year, they have made the first steps in recent years to new capital investments starting with Phase 1 of an on-site adventure park. In partnership with Blue Mountain resorts, the Village is now completing construction of a rather exciting Alpine Coaster ride that features a 1.5 kilometer, elevated track through forest into the Village where guests ride in a cart over the track that sits 1 to 6 metres off the ground. This will be open year round and is only the first of a 2.5 million dollar master plan that also includes an alpine mini golf course, rock-climbing, Euro-bungee, Tree Top Walk, Zip Line and mountain-top park. The village also expects to expand from its present 46 shops and restaurants to about 60-70 at completion.
Since it is a stated goal of the resort to increase rental occupancies, it is quite possible that the combination of scarcity ( with no new developer inventory at this time), increased occupancies and economic stability may see better returns on investment for unit owners in the Village at Blue. Of course only time will tell.
Read Part 1: Buying A Condo at Blue Mountain
Read Part 2: Why People Buy Units at Blue
Read Part 3: Financing A Purchase at Blue Mountain
Hi Marg
I have been reading your postings on Blue Mountain Village recently as we are looking at purchasing a unit there in the next few months. I was wondering if you can give me any insight into the Blue Mountain Village market at this point in time. Is this a good time to but a property up there, are the prices looking at stagnating or increasing/decreasing. I know you spoke of investments that have been done by Fortress to increase occupancy etc. A private response to my email would be appreciated but if not, than one here would be great. Thank you for your time.
We tried to purchase a condo in the village and according to the bank, they don’t finance condos in rental pool. Are there other financing available? If so, where/what?
Any reply will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks
Hi Dal
It is challenging for sure since you are buying into a commercial venture and banks don’t like to lend on that. some people finance against the equity in their principal residence and others have had success through mortgage brokers and private lenders. Your own real estate salesperson should be able to assist with you appropriate contacts. Good luck!
Is it a good time to buy 2 bed condo and would you recommend Snowbridge, Rivergrass or any other development appreaciate a response
Hi Sanjay
The market for condos in our area is very active and in demand so the challenge is always finding one. All of the developments you’ve mentioned are good and it really depends on what your purpose is for buying. Feel free to send me a private email if you wish to share further information. Thanks.