Real estate in Canada’s biggest ski towns is rebounding as Canadians look to buy more locally to push back against United States tariffs.
Real estate agents in 16 of the 18 biggest ski destinations in Canada have seen increased sales as more Canadians choose to vacation at home, according to Royal LePage’s 2025 Winter Recreational Property Report.
“Modest interest rate relief and a growing ‘Buy Canadian’ mindset helped reignite demand for slopeside chalets and mountain retreats,” Phil Soper, chief executive of Royal LePage, said in a release.
Among the company’s real estate agents in recreational areas, 47 per cent said they have seen increased demand this year.
“With relations between Canada and the U.S. running cool, more Canadians are choosing to spend their winter vacations at home,” Soper said. “Domestic destinations are benefiting as travel habits shift and people look for escapes that feel close, comfortable and truly Canadian.”
Meanwhile, 54 per cent of Canadians with property in the U.S. are looking to sell within the next year, 62 per cent of whom are selling due to the political climate south of the border, according to Royal LePage.
Among those planning to sell their U.S. property, 32 per cent are planning to reinvest in Canadian real estate.
And 27 per cent of Royal LePage agents have seen an increased demand from U.S.-based buyers, which Soper attributes to the favourable exchange rate between the two countries.
“Recreational properties are generally exempt from Canada’s foreign-buyer restrictions, which adds another layer of appeal for U.S. purchasers exploring seasonal retreats north of the border,” he said.
Canada’s real estate market as a whole has been stagnant amid the economic uncertainty, but recreational properties have been a bright spot. Home prices in recreational markets are up 3.8 per cent year over year through the first three quarters of 2025 to an average of $982,000.
Soper said the stability in the recreational market comes from the financial flexibility of those looking for a second home and because limited new construction in recreational areas keeps demand high.
“While economic uncertainty continues to weigh on many urban markets, buyers seeking winter escapes are pushing ahead, demonstrating once again the resilience and enduring appeal of Canada’s recreational regions,” he said.
Overall, total sales were down in just two of 18 Canadian ski destinations: Canmore, Alta., and Mont-Sainte-Anne, Que.
“The early snowfall has set a strong tone for the season ahead,” Soper said. “Canada’s recreational markets remain remarkably strong, driven by steady demand for ski and mountain properties and the growing desire for seasonal homes that offer relaxation, adventure and connection to nature. With resorts gearing up for what’s expected to be an active season, momentum in these markets is expected to build.”
Read More: ‘Buy Canadian’ movement leads to real estate rebound in ski towns
