Thinking of buying a vacation home in Whistler that also brings in rental income? You’re not alone. For many buyers from Vancouver and Seattle, Whistler seems like the perfect mix of mountain lifestyle and smart investment.
But here’s the truth: the numbers don’t always live up to the dream.
As a real estate advisor working with buyers from both sides of the border, I want to help you cut through the hype and see the real math behind three actual Whistler Phase 1 properties. This way, you can make a smarter, more strategic investment decision.
Let’s break down what they really earn and what they cost.
📍 Property #1: 323 Tyndall Stone Lodge – Heart of Whistler Village
- Type: 1 Bedroom + Loft Condo
- Location: Whistler Village, Main Street (near Olympic Rings at Celebration Plaza)
- List Price: $1.399M
- 2024 Gross Rental Income: $59,456
- Total Annual Expenses: $21,144
Expenses Breakdown:
- Hydro: $648
- Internet & Cable: $1,800
- Strata Fees: $10,884
- Property Taxes: $5,280
- Tourism Whistler Fee: $1,812
- Insurance: $720
💰 Net Income: $38,312
📌 Note: Mortgage costs are not included, since every buyer’s financing is different.
📍 Property #2: Unit #215, Bear Lodge at Town Plaza
- Type: 2 Bedroom / 1 Bath Condo
- Location: Quiet side of Whistler Village, 5-min walk to gondolas
- Projected Gross Revenue (Harmony Whistler Vacations): $75,981
- Total Annual Expenses: $36,735
Expenses Breakdown:
- Property Tax: $3,743
- Tourism Whistler Fee: $1,781
- Strata Fees: $12,216
- Property Management (25% of gross): $18,995
💰 Net Income: $39,245
📌 Bonus: Strata fees here include heat, hot water, gas, cable, and internet — which helps with consistency in operating costs
📍Property #3: Unit #28, Painted Cliff Townhomes
- Type: 2 Bedroom Townhome (Ski-in/Ski-out)
- Location: Lower Blackcomb Mountain, just above the Fairmont Chateau Whistler
- List Price: $1.995M
- Forecast Gross Revenue (Platinum Pacific): $100,000
- Total Annual Expenses: $39,357
Expenses Breakdown:
- Property Tax: $5,406
- Tourism Whistler Fee: $1,211
- Strata Fees: $7,740
- Property Management (25% of gross): $25,000
💰 Net Income: $60,643
🎿 With ski-to-door access and more space, this unit earns more — but comes at a higher upfront cost.
Additional Insights for Buyers and Sellers
Two Practical Tips Buyers Will Appreciate:
- Always factor in management fees. A 25% cut is common in Whistler, and it significantly affects your bottom line. Consider self-management only if you have time and local support.
- Understand the differences between Phase 1 and Phase 2 zoning. Phase 1 zoning offers the greatest rental flexibility in Whistler, allowing for unlimited personal use and nightly rentals. It’s the ideal setup for buyers who want to enjoy their property while also generating income. Phase 2 zoning, by contrast, comes with stricter usage limitations and is often tied to hotel management programs.
One Vancouver family I worked with purchased a 2-bed in Tyndall Stone back in 2022. They used it every spring break and Christmas, and still cleared over $30K/year net. The key? They booked their family time early and relied on a great local rental manager to fill the gaps. Strategic planning made all the difference.
Bottom Line: Dream Wisely
Whistler real estate can absolutely generate income but it’s not magic. The difference between a “dream buy” and a smart investment is in the math. Whether you're eyeing a ski-in/ski-out chalet or a convenient Village condo, the numbers matter just as much as the lifestyle.
Want to see how these properties compare side-by-side in more detail?
Watch the full breakdown on YouTube for a visual walkthrough of all three options and more rental insights.
Ready to talk through what works for your goals? Reach out and let’s crunch the numbers together.
