From my perspective, in a market where the institutional players are active (see https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/311/topics/86191-the-modus-operandi-of-the-mass-buyer---a-case-study), I disagree with most of the above posts.

I saw a list of new, newly redecorated, and up and coming ski resorts in Canada.

Are you looking for a resort location with year-round sunshine?

Direct communications solves most issues, but is usually the last resort.

They have been in business since 1978 and are a big player in this field.

Not as much as previous years , due to better marketing by the resorts and golf clubs. 

An experienced investor will be able to spot out a 'player' real estate agent/broker quickly.

@Ned Carey  in addition one needs to have nexus lexus and be an expert at skip tracing.out our way the bigger players in this tend to be private detectives..and in many areas the counties make it darn tough as they don't like to see middle men taking 50% of peoples money.... this is an old Guru program that has kind of come and gone.

They are the two biggest players in the industry and have different approaches.

I guess they could make an example of a top player like yourself  :)  My son in Law trade marked   VEGASBABY in advance of the Raiders coming to Vegas..