With soaring mountains, tranquil lakes, rugged coastlines, and vibrant artistic communities, British Columbia is home to some of North America’s most desirable vacation properties. While the Foreign Buyer’s Ban has impacted Canada’s real estate market, there are still several scenic locations exempt from this regulation, as the policy only applies to properties located in Census Metropolitan Areas and Census Agglomerations. Here are five of BC’s most incredible destinations that are exempt from the Foreign Buyer’s Ban.
Sun Peaks
Home to Canada’s second-largest ski area, spread across three majestic mountain peaks — Tod Mountain, Sundance Mountain, and Mount Morrisey — this region offers world-class skiing and snowboarding in winter, along with exhilarating hiking, fishing, mountain biking, golf, watersports, and more during the warmer seasons. The charming pedestrian village at the base of the mountains features galleries, museums, theatres, event venues, and plenty of dining options, pubs, and breweries. See properties in Sun Peaks
Big White
The award-winning Big White Ski Resort boasts Canada’s largest ski-in/ski-out resort village, with a variety of runs and extensive skiable terrain suitable for athletes of all ages and abilities. Its rugged landscapes are ideal for hiking and mountain biking, while the town’s diverse dining options, lively festivals and events, and proximity to Kelowna make Big White one of the Okanagan Region’s most sought-after year-round vacation destinations. See properties in Big White
Salt Spring
Nestled along the Salish Sea between Vancouver Island and BC’s Mainland, Salt Spring is the largest and most populated of the Southern Gulf Islands. With breathtaking landscapes, lush parks and green spaces, a temperate climate, and a thriving arts scene, Salt Spring offers a tranquil retreat for both vacationers and those seeking to live amidst unparalleled natural beauty and a welcoming, laid-back community. See properties in Salt Spring
Halfmoon Bay
Located on the southern end of the picturesque Sunshine Coast, Halfmoon Bay is home to some of BC’s most luxurious waterfront estates, miles of sandy beaches, tranquil lakes, lush forests, and panoramic ocean views. Its charming historic downtown area features heritage buildings, quaint boutiques, lively eateries, galleries, and locally owned artists’ studios. See properties in Halfmoon Bay
Sechelt
The vibrant community of Sechelt is the largest on BC’s Sunshine Coast, nestled between the Salish Sea and Sechelt Inlet. Known for its abundant outdoor recreation opportunities, thriving arts scene, and laid-back coastal charm, Sechelt is surrounded by approximately 35 km of coastline, with numerous beach accesses, lush forests, provincial parks, spectacular waterfalls, and scenic multi-use trails. See properties in Sechelt
To discover more about British Columbia’s dynamic and diverse real estate markets, connect with a Sotheby’s International Realty Canada expert today. We’ll help you explore the best properties in these exceptional locations and beyond.





