Everyone in Southern Alberta realizes that Canmore is a genuine jewel of the Canadian Rockies, as well as one of the hottest real estate markets in the region.

But here's a point that's not so widely understood. This spectacular alpine resort town has barely begun to scratch its potential for real estate investment.

That's why the marketing professionals at Maverick Real Estate Corp. are so buzzed about Blackstone Mountain Lodge, a new vacation investment property in Canmore that has generated enormous interest since launching its pre-sale three months ago. Then again, Blackstone Mountain Lodge qualifies as an easy sell. For starters, it's the premium resort property in Canmore. So when talking to buyers, Maverick sales VP Christopher Wein and his team repeatedly stress a number of reasons why it's so important to get in on the ground floor.

Wein gets straight to the point with three key words: Invest. Earn. Enjoy.



Why not consider them one at a time?

* INVEST: Those who purchase one of 123 units at Blackstone Mountain Lodge not only acquire an incomparable home away from home in a dream destination for rest, relaxation and recreation, they're making an important investment for the future.

Ask around. You won't find many people who regret their decision to buy in Canmore, five years ago or even 15 years ago. And yet, this is a recreational market that remains a long way from its peak.

"In my opinion, Canmore is still a very young market," explains Wein. "Yes, prices have accelerated quite a bit in recent years, but taken in the context of the greater North American tourist market, Canmore in general - and Blackstone Mountain Lodge, in particular - still represent amazing bargains."

Peruse the markets via the Web and run your own comparison. Check vacation home prices in Mont Tremblant, Whistler, Kelowna and Vail, Colo. Then prepare for a pleasant surprise.

"Canmore is a market with an unlimited future," Wein sums up.

* EARN: Blackstone Mountain Lodge is not a time-share project. Nor does it offer fractional ownership. When you complete your sales transaction, you're in possession of a solely owned unit in one of Canmore's most dynamic new developments.

But that doesn't mean you can't put your investment straight to work via Blackstone Mountain Lodge's optional rental pool. It's an exciting plan that allows owners to generate significant revenue while they await their next vacation. Statistically, unit holders occupy their own suites an average of one month in 12. But because Blackstone operates as a year-round resort, owners are welcome to rent out their units any time they're vacant. It's a trouble-free, no-hassle arrangement that can significantly offset the price of your purchase. The lodge will be run on a day-to-day basis by Bellstar Hotels & Resorts Ltd., one of Canada's most competent management companies. They do the work and you reap the rewards.

Bellstar's professionals take care of everything, including rental details and worldwide marketing initiatives. Bellstar will rent your suite on a daily or weekly basis, while you're away. Then, pool participants share in revenue on an equal basis. That's a real plus because it means individual owners don't compete for the business of vacationing visitors. Meanwhile, 60 per cent of revenue goes to unit-holders, with only 40 per cent reverting to the management company. This arrangement compares well with the prevailing 50-50 industry standard.

* ENJOY: This is the easiest part. Your frequent getaways to Blackstone Mountain Lodge will soothe your spirit while delighting your eye. Consider the amenities: Stainless steel appliances. Granite counter tops. Slate backsplashes throughout. These attractive suites come fully furnished, with custom-designed pieces from the Blackstone Signature Collection, made specifically for the property. Each suite includes a 27-inch flat-panel TV, by the way.

But that's just scratching the surface. Developed by mountainsidehomes by Assured Developments, Blackstone Mountain Lodge features a year-round outdoor swimming pool; two year-round outdoor hot tubs; fitness centre and massage facility; games room; full meeting facility and business centre.

Sales have been extremely brisk, so don't delay. The pre-construction stage is the most economical time to put down your 10 per cent deposit, with purchase prices running the gamut from the mid-$200,000s to $1 million-plus.

This dazzling resort will welcome its proud new occupants in spring, 2007. While they're waiting, interested parties are cordially invited to stop by the Presentation Centre at 802 Main Street in downtown Canmore. The Presentation Centre features a fully outfitted show suite and remains open 7 days a week, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Meanwhile, visit the website: www.blackstonecanmore.ca.

For information, call 403.609.8098 or (toll-free) 1.888.830.8883.