As we approach Labor Day weekend, the unofficial end of summer in Mammoth Lakes, it’s hard to believe how quickly it went by. This summer started off warmer than usual on or around June 1st and stayed very warm throughout the subsequent weeks. The fires that burned in the vicinity brought unwanted smoke into the Town of Mammoth Lakes, which made outdoor activity difficult for extended periods of time. However, tourism remained strong and healthy this summer, which seems to be the new “norm”. The temporary Yosemite park closure, due to fire threats, also brought many first-time visitors to Mammoth as a result. With added recreational options such as stand up paddle boarding rentals, E Bike rentals, kayak rentals and a variety of other activities, this mountain resort was teeming with activity and happy campers.
Typically, the fall like temperatures begin around the first week of September, followed by a few bursts of “Indian summer” warmer temperature, which can occur in October. We should begin to see the first traces of fall colors in the next couple of weeks. As we begin the transition into fall, the excitement of ski season around the corner is evident. This is the time of year when slope side or ski in, ski out properties become more...
As of today, August 1, 2018, the Mammoth Lakes real estate market has a total of 108 condos, 43 homes and 54 vacant land listings. On August 1st last year, we had a total of 80 condos, 52 homes and 42 lots on the market. So, the inventory is higher this year for condos, lower for homes, and higher for vacant land listings. Real estates sales in Mammoth Lakes remain consistent, but have slowed slightly from last year. It is my opinion that the demand was higher last year because prices were lower, we had a record year of snowfall and KSL & Aspen Skiing Company (now called “Alterra Mountain Company”) announced their acquisition of Mammoth Mountain on April 12, 2017. The new ownership is keeping any future development plans very quiet. The renovations currently underway in Canyon Lodge are said to include an escalator and other upgrades to the food service and bar areas, but nothing as substantial as what some of the mountain employees thought a few months ago. The ski lockers will remain. With regard to Eagle Lodge, it is rumored that Alterra didn’t like the previous approved plans, so they will look to begin again with a new set of architectural plans and concept (much needed). They do plan to invest a substantial amount in upgrading the Mountain lodges and on-mountain operations over the coming years. As the Ikon pass will most likely bring more crowds to the area, any improvement to the lodges and infrastructure to handle larger crowds would be highly beneficial and appreciated by the winter visitor.
Since the announcement of the new ownership, many sellers have been listing at higher...