whistler

Vacation Rental Management

The Leading Airbnb Management Company in Whistler

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Which Situation Applies To You?

Whether you’re in the early stages of your research or ready to hand over the keys, we have curated information to help you.

Property Management in Whistler

We would love the opportunity to discuss managing your Whistler property and see if we are the right solution for you. We’ve been owning and managing properties in Whistler for over a decade and have learned a lot about how to operate a successful vacation rental in this world class market.

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  • White Glove – Our highest service tier is perfect for homeowners looking for passive involvement, but also want to ensure their guests are well taken care of.
  • Full Service – Our most popular service tier that is an excellent option for hands-off owners.

  • Managing the boots on the ground can be challenging in a market life Whistler, so allow us to take on the heavy lifting.
  • We recruit, train, and support our cleaning and maintenance contractors to work diligently and with precision.

  • We don’t just manage units in Whistler; we are also an owner, so the same processes we use for our units are being leveraged across all the properties we manage.
  • We have a long track record of managing revenue in Whistler so we know how to appropriately price units to acquire the right bookers.

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Sharing Responsibilities Through Shared Hosting.

Oftentimes the best results occur when we share the responsibilities of managing the vacation rental. By dividing the workload we can ensure the guest gets the best experience possible and deliver exceptional results.

You focus on the cleaning, we manage the marketing.

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  • Shared Hosting – 20% – A perfect option for an owner that is happy to do the cleaning, but wants some help with the digital aspects.
  • Revenue Management – 5% – We strictly manage the pricing of your property while you focus on the guest experience.

  • Many homeowners are happy to do the cleaning themselves or have a trusted cleaner they would prefer we use, so our Shared Hosting solution makes sense for them.
  • By working together we can often achieve even better results for the homeowner and guests.

  • We don’t believe in a “Set it and forget it” pricing strategy, instead we deploy the best in class dynamic pricing software and compliment it with the oversight of a competent revenue manager.
  • Prior to Lifty Life, our CEO, Connor, was a revenue manager for a global powerhouse responsible for tens of thousands of listings.

  • Each and every month you will receive a monthly payout.
  • This report will outline the reservation details and all of the costs associated with each reservation.

  • Reach Out To Our Team – Call Today: (778) 255-0130
  • Schedule An Initial Walkthrough
  • Ensure You’re Compliant ( Licensing + Zoning )
  • Ensure You Have Adequate Insurance
  • Complete Our Property Questionnaire
  • Accept Your First Guests

Buying A Vacation Rental In Whistler

Investing in a vacation rental in Whistler is a big undertaking and want to ensure you have the right resources available to make an investment that makes sense for you. Of course; we would love the opportunity to manage your property in the future, but first we need to ensure you have the right people and information to get there.

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  • Our realtor recommendation in Whistler is Nick who can be contacted at 604-245-2568.
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To be compliant in Whistler, your property must be in a Phase 1 building. These buildings below are Phase 1:

  • Market Pavilion
  • Marketplace Lodge
  • Deer, Bear, and Eagle Lodge
  • Sunpath
  • Aspens on Blackcomb
  • Tyndall Stone Lodge
  • Aspens Hotel
  • Telemark
  • Cornerstone Building
  • Glacier Lodge
  • Glaciers Reach
  • Gondola Village
  • Saint Andrews House
  • Tantalus Lodge
  • Fitzimmons
  • Marquise
  • Highland Annex
  • Creekside Lodge
  • Vale
  • Hearthstone Building
  • Wedgeview Centre
  • Whistler Town Plaza
  • Wildwood Lodge
  • Woodrun
  • Windwhistle
  • Alpenglow (Phase 2, but operates differently)

  • Of course this varies greatly depending on the property type, but generally speaking you can expect a property to earn between $40,000 – $120,000+ per year in gross revenue.
View Our Revenue Estimator

Purchasing a vacation rental in Whistler, BC, can be a lucrative investment, but it’s essential to understand several key factors:

1. Zoning and Property Covenants:

  • Phase 1 Properties: These allow unlimited owner use and the flexibility to rent the property on a nightly or monthly basis. They are typically found in non-hotel complexes throughout Whistler Village and the Benchlands.
  • Phase 2 Properties: These restrict owner usage to 28 days in the winter and 28 days in the summer. The rest of the time, the unit must be available for nightly rentals through an integrated rental pool managed by a designated company.

2. Strata Regulations:

  • Short-Term Rental (STR) Friendly Strata: Ensure the strata bylaws permit short-term rentals. Some strata corporations may have restrictions or require owners to use specific rental management companies. Review strata bylaws carefully to confirm they align with your rental intentions.

3. Goods and Services Tax (GST):

  • GST Implications: Properties used primarily for short-term rentals are subject to a 5% GST. However, if you register for a GST number and continue renting the property nightly, you can defer this tax. Changing the property’s use to long-term rentals or personal use may trigger a GST payment. Consult a local accountant to understand the tax implications fully.

4. Working with a Local Realtor:

  • Expert Guidance: Engaging a Whistler-based realtor experienced in vacation rentals is crucial. They can navigate the complexities of zoning, strata regulations, and market trends. We can recommend reputable local realtors to assist you.

5. Property Price Points:

  • Market Overview: Property prices in Whistler vary based on location, size, and amenities. Generally, Phase 1 properties, due to their rental flexibility, are priced higher than Phase 2 properties. Engaging with a local realtor will provide current market insights tailored to your investment goals.

Understanding these aspects will help you make an informed decision when purchasing a vacation rental in Whistler. Partnering with knowledgeable professionals ensures a smooth and profitable investment experience.

Trusted Local Partners Of

Logo for Whistler Chamber of Commerce, featuring the organization name in gray text with a green dot above the "r" in "Whistler" on a white background—ideal for businesses, including vacation rental management in Whistler.
Tourism Whistler logo featuring stylized mountain peaks above the words "TOURISM WHISTLER" in blue and teal text, reflecting the area's vibrant spirit and role as a hub for vacation rental management in Whistler.
Black and white logo featuring a location pin icon above the words "The Adventure Group" in a clean, modern font, perfect for vacation rental management in Whistler.
A teal maple leaf with the letters "BC" inside is above the word "DESTINATION" in capital letters, representing vacation rental management in Harrison Hot Springs, all set on a white background.

About Whistler.

Whistler is recognized as the best ski resort in North America and it does not disappoint. Without any doubt it is the largest ski resort in Canada and it is an awesome place to own a vacation rental.

Market Statistics

  • Approximately 2,000+ active listings
  • One Bedrooms / Studios represent 52% of Rental Supply
  • Two Bedrooms represent 32% of Rental Supply
  • Three Bedrooms represent 9% of Rental Supply
  • 54% of Listings have two night minimums
  • Average length of stay is 3 nights

Our Opinion on Whistler.

“Whistler has a special place in our hearts as its the birthplace of Lifty Life. Its an awesome market that we own and manage properties in.
Connor Griffiths
CEO of Lifty Life

How Much Does A Whistler Property Earn?

We developed a simple calculator to help generate a rough estimate of how much your Whistler vacation rental could expect to earn. Please remember this is just an estimate.

Estimated Earnings: $34,000 – $78,000

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A man wearing hiking gear walks through a sunlit forest trail with a dog following behind him, enjoying the peace often found near top vacation rental management retreats.

Mac

Full service client in Whistler, BC

What Our Homeowners Have To Say.

Directly from a full service homeowner client of ours:

” Lifty Life was my property manager for my two bedroom rental unit in Whistler over this past ski season. They did a fantastic job! Communication was easy and they looked after every detail so that I could enjoy earning revenue without any stress. I would highly recommend them. “

What Our Whistler Guests Have To Say.

Our Vacation Rental Management Services in Whistler

We offer all three service tiers in Whistler, from shared hosting to our White Glove service offering everything a homeowner needs to ensure their property and guests are well taken care of.

Highest level property management in Whistler

White Glove.

35% Commission + Cleaning Fee Charged To The Guest.

Our most premier service level creates a passive vacation rental for owners and premium service for guests.

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  • Branding & Content
  • Professional Photography
  • Channel Management

  • Booking & Screening
  • Guest Care
  • Follow Up & Review

  • Forecasting
  • Dynamic Pricing
  • Monthly Reports

  • Professional Cleaning
  • Coordinate Maintenance
  • Replenishment

  • Hotel Quality Linens & Towels
  • Streaming Services
  • Help With Staging & Setup
  • Property Inspection
  • Dedicated Guest Services Manager

A Property Management Service That Works

Full Service.

25% Commission + Cleaning Fee Charged To The Guest.

We pride ourselves on providing carefree management that allows owners the freedom to thoroughly enjoy their properties.

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  • Branding & Content
  • Professional Photography
  • Channel Management

  • Booking & Screening
  • Guest Care
  • Follow Up & Review

  • Forecasting
  • Dynamic Pricing
  • Monthly Reports

  • Professional Cleaning
  • Coordinate Maintenance
  • Replenishment

Remote Management Services in Whistler

Shared Hosting.

20% Commission

Our remote service is a perfect solution for owners capable of handling the boots of the ground but need help managing digital services.

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  • Branding & Content
  • Professional Photography
  • Channel Management

  • Booking & Screening
  • Guest Care
  • Follow Up & Review

  • Forecasting
  • Dynamic Pricing
  • Monthly Reports
Unlimited

Owner usage

Monthly

Payouts

Flexible

Contract

Partner

Mentality

FAQ

It is very common for homeowners to have some initial questions so we wanted to provide them upfront for you to review.

The onboarding process for new homeowners with Lifty Life is simple and straightforward:
1. Initial Contact: Reach out to our team to organize an initial call or property walkthrough. This helps us understand your property and your specific needs.
2. Contract Review: We’ll review our contract together to ensure both parties clearly understand their responsibilities and expectations.
3. Compliance Check: We’ll assist in confirming that you have the adequate licensing and insurance required for your property to operate as a vacation rental.
This process ensures a smooth start to our partnership, setting the foundation for successful property management.

Who Travels to Whistler?

  • Outdoor Enthusiasts: Skiers, snowboarders, hikers, and mountain bikers flock to Whistler for its world-class terrain.
  • Luxury Seekers: High-income travelers seeking upscale accommodations, fine dining, and premium experiences.
  • Adventure Tourists: Zipliners, climbers, and those seeking adrenaline-pumping activities.
  • Event-Goers: Guests attending festivals like Crankworx, Whistler Film Festival, and culinary events.
  • International Tourists: Visitors from the US, Europe, and Asia drawn by Whistler’s global reputation.

What is There to Do?

  • Family Fun: Kid-friendly activities, ziplining, and the Peak 2 Peak Gondola experience.
  • Winter Sports: Access to Whistler Blackcomb, North America’s largest ski resort.
  • Summer Activities: Mountain biking, hiking, paddleboarding, and golfing.
  • Relaxation: Luxurious spas, wellness retreats, and the Scandinave Spa.
  • Dining & Nightlife: Fine dining, craft breweries, and vibrant après-ski culture.

In a Whistler vacation rental, guests typically seek a mix of comfort, convenience, and amenities that enhance their mountain getaway experience. Here’s a list of important amenities to consider:

Core Amenities:

  • Wi-Fi: Reliable and high-speed internet is essential for guests, whether for work, streaming, or staying connected.
  • Parking: Free or designated parking, preferably covered, is highly valued due to snowy winters.
  • Heating: Ensure the property is well-heated, especially during ski season.
  • Fully Equipped Kitchen: Include basic appliances (stove, oven, microwave, fridge) and cooking essentials (pots, pans, utensils, and spices).
  • Washer and Dryer: Guests appreciate the convenience of doing laundry, especially during extended stays or after outdoor activities.
  • Comfortable Beds: High-quality mattresses, linens, and extra blankets are a must.
  • Bathroom Essentials: Stock with toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, body wash), ample towels, and hair dryers.
  • Smart TV: This allows guests to easily watch their favorite shows on Netflix, Disney+, or ESPN.

Big Win Amenities:

  • Hot Tub: A private hot tub or access to one is a major selling point for guests after a day on the slopes.
  • Fireplace: A gas or wood-burning fireplace adds to the cozy, alpine atmosphere.
  • Ski Storage: Provide a secure and convenient place for guests to store their skis, snowboards, and boots.
  • Heated Floors: Particularly in bathrooms, heated floors are a luxurious touch.
  • Balcony or Patio: Guests enjoy taking in mountain views or relaxing outdoors.
  • Proximity to the Slopes or Village: Highlight walkability or access to public transit if the property isn’t ski-in/ski-out.

Seasonal Gear & Supplies:

  • Snowshoes or Bikes: Offering these for guest use can set your property apart.
  • Drying Rack for Gear: A place to dry wet gear is very useful during winter months.

Kid-Friendly Amenities (if targeting families):

  • Pack ‘n Play or Crib: For families traveling with small children.
  • Games and Entertainment: Board games, cards, or gaming systems are great for cozy nights in.

Yes, homeowners can use their property for personal stays with unlimited owner usage.

Here’s how it works:
Advance Booking: To ensure availability, homeowners are encouraged to book their stays well in advance, as we will not cancel existing guest reservations to accommodate owner stays.
No Nightly Charge: There is no nightly rental charge for personal stays. However, the cleaning fee will be deducted from a future payout to cover the cost of preparing the property for the next guest.
Owner Portal Access: Homeowners can conveniently book their stays directly through the owner portal provided.
This system offers flexibility and ease of use while maintaining a seamless experience for both homeowners and guests.

If you’re considering hiring an Airbnb management company in Whistler, here are some essential questions to ask to ensure you’re partnering with the right team:

  • How long have you been managing properties in Whistler? Lifty Life is over a decade.
  • What is your strategy for maximizing revenue during both high and low seasons in Whistler? We utilize dynamic pricing and have an in-house revenue manager.
  • How familiar are you with Whistler’s zoning laws and short-term rental regulations? Lifty Life is VERY fimiliar.
  • Which platforms market your properties? We use Airbnb, VRBO, Booking.com, Expedia, Google Travel, & Direct.
  • Do you use professional photography for listings? Lifty Life uses professional photographers for every listing.
  • Do you handle guest inquiries and booking management 24/7? Lifty Life has 24/7 guest support.
  • Do you offer concierge services or local recommendations for guests? Lifty Life absolutely does.

Yes, provided your property is in a Phase 1 Zoning. It is also required to have a business license from RMOW.

Phase 1 allows for unrestricted owner use and nightly rentals, while Phase 2 is more restrictive, requiring the unit to be available for rental a majority of the year, with limited owner usage.

Phase 1 vs Phase 2 Zoning in Whistler

 Phase 1 Zoning – Most Flexible

  • Nightly rentals are allowed year-round.
  • Unlimited personal use of the property by the owner.
  • You can live in it full-time, rent it long-term, or operate it as a vacation rental.
  • Common in Whistler Village, Upper Village, and some parts of Creekside.
  • Ideal for investors who want both rental income and personal use flexibility.

 Phase 2 Zoning – Hotel-style Restriction

  • Also allows nightly rentals, but with restricted personal use.
  • Owners are usually limited to 28 days in the summer and 28 days in the winter for personal use.
  • When not in use by the owner, the property must be available for rental, often through a hotel or rental pool.
  • Typically found in hotel-style buildings or resort developments.
  • Better suited for hands-off buyers not looking to really generate much income as the hotels will take most of the money.

Yes, you must obtain a business license from the Resort Municipality of Whistler (RMOW) and comply with local bylaws and zoning regulations.

1. Check Your Property’s Zoning

Start by confirming your property is zoned for short-term rentals. Only properties in zones designated for “tourist accommodation” (such as Phase 1 or Phase 2) are eligible. Residential zones do not allow nightly rentals.

2. Review Strata or Covenant Restrictions

Even if your property is in the correct zone, you must ensure your strata bylaws or property covenants don’t restrict short-term rentals. Some buildings or developments prohibit them regardless of zoning.

3. Close Any Open Building Permits

The municipality won’t issue a business licence if your property has any open or outstanding building permits. Be sure all construction work is fully completed and signed off.

4. Apply for a Business Licence

Submit an application to the Resort Municipality of Whistler (RMOW) for a tourist accommodation business licence. There’s a licensing fee involved, and you’ll receive a licence number once approved. This number must be displayed on your Airbnb or vacation rental listing.

5. Ensure Your Property Meets Safety Standards

Your Airbnb must comply with basic safety requirements, such as working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, accessible fire extinguishers, and visible emergency contact info. These requirements are inspected by the municipality.

6. Register with BC’s Provincial Short-Term Rental Registry

As of 2025, all short-term rentals in BC must be registered with the provincial registry. Once registered, you’ll receive a unique number that must be added to your online listing. Without it, your listing may be removed by Airbnb or other platforms.

7. Collect and Remit Applicable Taxes

Short-term rentals in Whistler are subject to provincial and municipal taxes. Some platforms may collect and remit these taxes on your behalf, but you’re still responsible for income tax and potentially GST depending on your rental income.

8. Display Required Information on Listings

Make sure your listing includes your RMOW business licence number and your BC provincial registration number. This is a legal requirement and helps ensure your listing stays active.

9. Be Prepared for Inspections or Bylaw Checks

The RMOW may conduct inspections or follow up on complaints. Failing to comply with bylaws or licensing requirements could result in fines or loss of your licence.

10. Renew Licences Annually

Your municipal business licence and provincial registration must be renewed each year to remain compliant and continue operating legally.

Yes, but you’ll need to handle bookings, guest communication, cleaning, taxes, emergency support, and bylaw compliance yourself.

Whistler is a high-demand, high-expectation destination. Guests are paying premium rates and expect hotel-level service. At the same time, staffing is highly transient, and it can be difficult to find reliable cleaners, handymen, and qualified tradespeople, especially during peak seasons. Responding to guest issues quickly can be tough without a strong local network.

For most owners, it makes more sense to partner with a local Airbnb management company like Lifty Life, who can handle everything from guest communication and turnover to maintenance and revenue optimization ensuring your guests are happy and your property performs year-round.

This depends on location, zoning, unit size, seasonality, and management quality. Studio units in the Village might earn ~$50,000/year, while larger units can exceed $100,000+.

Revenue in Whistler varies widely depending on factors like location, zoning, unit type, amenities, and how well the property is managed. However, here are some general benchmarks:

Property TypeVillage LocationCreekside or Outside Core
Studio Condo$35,000–$60,000$30,000–$45,000
1-Bedroom Unit$45,000–$70,000$40,000–$60,000
2-Bedroom Unit$60,000–$110,000$50,000–$85,000
3+ Bedroom Townhome$95,000–$180,000+$75,000–$130,000
Luxury Chalet$200,000+$150,000+

Key Factors That Impact Revenue

  • Proximity to lifts and the Village – Central properties command premium nightly rates.
  • Zoning (Phase 1 vs Phase 2) – Phase 1 gives flexibility to maximize peak dates.
  • Design, amenities, and quality – Well-furnished homes with hot tubs, parking, and premium finishes rent more often and at higher rates.
  • Management quality – Dynamic pricing, professional marketing, fast response times, and quality cleaning all directly influence booking volume and reviews.

Typical rates range from 20% to 35% of gross booking revenue, depending on the level of service provided (e.g., full-service vs. co-hosting).

Why Does It Make Sense to Pay for This Service?

While the fee may seem high, here’s why many owners find it worthwhile:

Local Expertise

Whistler is a high-expectation market. Professional managers know the pricing trends, event calendars, and guest behavior that drive bookings and maximize revenue.

Operational Support

It’s extremely difficult to coordinate cleaners, handymen, and guest issues from afar—especially in a mountain town with transient workers and tight trades availability. A local manager ensures your property stays guest-ready, even in winter storms or power outages.

Time Savings & Peace of Mind

From late-night guest calls to emergency repairs, short-term rentals are time-consuming. A manager handles everything on your behalf, so you can earn income without stress.

Higher Earnings (Even After Fees)

With dynamic pricing, higher occupancy, and better reviews, professionally managed listings often outperform DIY hosts, meaning you may earn more overall—even after paying a management fee.

The FAQ section on our site breaks down the complete onboarding process in 10 easy steps.

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How Lifty Life Can Manage Your Whistler Property

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