Jul 1, 2002 | Marmot, Summer 2002

A Mountain of Real Estate Activity!

Rick Gibson of Royal LePage in the Comox Valley is breathing a sigh of relief as the Mount Washington Real Estate market takes off for the first time in four years.

“It’s great that this is happening,” says Rick, who is one of Mount Washington’s staunchest supporters. “It proves that Mount Washington is on the right track with their development plans.” He adds that he has seen more real estate sales activity in the past year than in the previous four years combined. “I was getting worried,” he laughs, “Since the Mount Washington market makes up a big chunk of my business, I’m sure you can understand that there is only so long a guy can make a living in a silent market.”

In the past year sales have tripled while most prices are clinging to lower levels. For now. Rick is quick to point out that these great buys will not last forever.

“In the past few weeks I’ve had three sellers actually raise their prices.” And he’s quick to add, “If you’re looking for an investment property up on the mountain, my suggestion is that you act quickly.” “The best bargains are being snapped up by savvy buyers and I only have a few really hot deals left.”

As for residential development on the mountain, the brand new second phase of Parkview Place townhomes are currently under construction on Henry Road. Located within a stone’s throw of the loading area for the new Hawk chairlift, these deluxe residences are designed with bright, open plans, three or four bedrooms and a spacious double car garage. The superb location puts you right in the heart of alpine action by being a truly ski-in, ski-out, drive-in, drive-out property; while at the same time providing excellent access to all Nordic facilities. Ben Kunz is the builder for Parkview Place and he’s no stranger to construction on Mount Washington. His latest accomplishments include Raven Lodge, Creekside House and of course the first phase of Parkview Place.

In addition, Mount Washington has opened up a small number of single family lots on Nordic Road. “These are the first single family building sites brought to the market since 1992.” States Rick, “They offer unobstructed, commanding views right into Strathcona Park.” Four of the seven lots sold immediately. “Where else can you purchase fully serviced lots like these for prices starting at $79,900 that border the oldest provincial park in British Columbia?” Rick asks.

Rick feels that the next focus for development will be the area surrounding Deer Lodge. “The time is ripe for commercial development and I’ve got a stack of people just waiting to become part of the new Mount Washington Village.” He says. “Deer Lodge has proven to be an extremely attractive location for renters and owners due to it’s unbelievable, slopeside location, and proximity to the Alpine Lodge.” Appia Developments is offering some extremely exciting incentives for purchasers of their few remaining suites. “These are the deals that everyone is looking for,” Rick points out, “Gorgeous suites in an unbeatable location at great prices, and strata fees paid for three years! Who could resist that?”

Rick states that he’s had purchasers from as far away as Oman and he continuously gets inquiries from around the world. “Mount Washington is no longer viewed as a ski resort for Vancouver Island residents. It is becoming a vacation destination for the world.” For more information about real estate and development on Mount Washington, Rick is easy to contact.
You can call Rick Gibson at 250-334-3124, or 250-338-1723 (home), and 250-334-7503 (cell). Or you can email him at info@rickgibson.ca. His website, www.rickgibson.ca is filled with
information about the resort which includes back issues of this newspaper, maps, accommodation for rent and of course, properties for sale.

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