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A Look into Big Bear’s Market Trends, 2019-Today

With the slowing of COVID, we have had numerous requests for a market update comparing the real estate frenzy of the past few years with today’s more normalized market. Simply put, the markets of 2020 and 2021 were unprecedented. Given that, those are not market periods we would usually compare to the more typical trends that have occurred in the last 20-30 years. To get a more realistic idea of where the market currently stands in comparison to the recent past, for today, I’ll be covering 2019 through today.  As … [Read more...]

No on Measure O Campaign Proves to be a Success

Like most tourist destinations, our mountain community saw a record number of visitors in 2020 and 2021. We also experienced a significant increase in buyer interest which resulted in record sales numbers. In 2020, 1,814 single family residences sold and, in 2021, 1,753 were sold. This represented a 35-40% increase compared to 2018, 2019 (and likely will be for 2022 as well). All information and stats are pulled from the local Big Bear MLS only. Of these sales, many buyers opted to vacation rent the homes they … [Read more...]

The COVID-19 Effect – April 2020 Real Estate Sales Down 57% in Big Bear.

Well, we knew it would have an impact, and that impact is showing up in the home sales numbers.  Residential sales were down 57% in April 2020 compared to the same month in 2019.  Per the Big Bear MLS, there were 48 home sales this past April.  In April 2019, there were 112 home sales in Big Bear.  Home prices were up a modest 2% year or year, with an average sales price of $327,757 in April 2020 vs. $321,508 in April 2019.   What's in the numbers?  There were approximately 30+ … [Read more...]

Looking to Ditch That Big Bear Cabin Look? Here’s Some Tips to Modernizing Your Mountain Home….

"We want something cabin-y." This is something I hear ALL the time. Most of my clients want to escape from the city to their mountain home that really feels mountainous. But here's the thing, you can still get that feeling without the bears and lacquered wood. Don't get me wrong, a lot of people love that look and it is important to decorate your home to fit your taste. But, if you're looking for something current or are hoping to maximize your rental potential, kicking that traditional cabin look may be the … [Read more...]

Looking For A Vacation Rental Property in Big Bear? Here’s Some Tips to What Makes One Successful…

Vacation rentals are likely my most discussed topic while showing property to potential buyers. "How much could this generate annually?" "What are the restrictions?" "Do I need a hot tub?" "What is the best vacation rental area?" . Here in Big Bear, 80% of the homes sold are second ones and a majority of those will take advantage of the short term rental market. So what makes a great vacation rental? Let's dive in... Where should I buy? Location is a big factor (if not the biggest) when you are on your quest to … [Read more...]

Big Bear Real Estate Market off to solid start in 2020!

Residential sales in Big Bear were up 9% year over year during the first quarter of 2020, while the average sales price was up 6% as per the Big Bear MLS.  There were 270 residential sales from January 1, 2020 to March 31, 2020 vs. 247 sales during the same time last year.  The average sales price rose from $364,000 in 2019 to $386,000 in 2020.  The average days on market went up a modest 11 days year or year.   Given all of the craziness with COVID, it's important to note that the Big Bear real … [Read more...]

Is the Big Bear Real Estate Market Cooling Off?

It appears that the real estate market in Big Bear is cooling off quite a bit.  2014 was the slowest year for unit sales over the last 10 years.  Take a look at the chart & notes below for some more interesting findings. Here's what I noticed - 1.  Residential unit sales were down 27% in 2014 compared to 2013.  I am not sure if this has something to do with the rising prices, about 10% higher year over year, or more of just a general slow down in the market.   Seems to me it could be a little of both. … [Read more...]

Big Bear Winter Fun For Everyone!

Whether you're a skier, rider, sledding junkie or exercise enthusiast... Big Bear has it all! Sure... summer time is a bit on the warmer side, but that doesn't mean you have to be stuck indoors all winter long. You may be a full-timer or here on vacation, either way there are several ways to get up, get out and breathe some fresh air. Check it out... Bear Mountain and Snow Summit: Our two local ski resorts offer a wide range of ski/snowboard lessons, terrain for all abilities and a shuttle that will take you to … [Read more...]

Want to EARN your Big Bear Thanksgiving dinner? Here’s How.

It’s almost that time. Turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, pumpkin pie… yep, it’s Thanksgiving! A day we all look forward to, especially when it comes to food. That being said, maybe a little jog would make you feel a bit better about indulging? If so, this year Big Bear has officially hopped on the Turkey Trot train and will be hosting its first annual run this Thanksgiving Day. The Big Bear Turkey Trot falls under the umbrella of Open Air Big Bear, and offers 3, 6, and 9 milers ranging from $35 - $45 (see … [Read more...]

Big Bear Real Estate History

The Big Bear Land and Water Company was one of the earliest real estate offices in the Valley. This is picture was scanned from their booklet printed in 1927. The Big Bear Land and Water Company had offices in downtown Los Angeles at 8th and Spring Street. Their motto was, “Building Big Bear City.” We have a copy of their 1925 brochure. Here is the advice they gave to their agents! Forward to Salesmen This booklet is a compilation of figures and facts about BIG BEAR CITY. It is not intended for prospective … [Read more...]