With its breathtaking mountain views and endless outdoor recreation opportunities, Summit County is a dream destination for many; owning a house here has many benefits beyond stunning scenery.
From the fresh mountain air to the peaceful surroundings, a mountain view property provides a sense of escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Plus, with the increasing popularity of remote work, having a house with a mountain view is the perfect place to work and live. Whether you’re looking for a vacation home or a permanent residence, a mountain view property in Summit County is an investment worth considering. So, let’s dive in and explore the things you should consider when buying a house with a good view of nature and the mountains of Colorado.
Size and Layout
The property’s size and layout will directly impact your comfort and quality of life. Here are some things to think about:
Square Footage
Consider the property’s square footage and ensure it’s sufficient for your needs. Will it be big enough to host guests comfortably, or will it feel cramped? Make sure that you’re comfortable with the size of the property.
Indoor and Outdoor Living Spaces
Think about the indoor and outdoor living spaces on the property. Will you have enough space to relax inside and outside? Make sure the property offers a good balance of indoor and outdoor living spaces.
Home or Land Improvements
Will you need to add or replace the septic system or well? Consider how close you will be to a natural water source. If you’re far from one, drilling for water may become difficult and expensive due to rock excavations.
Is the property getting enough sunlight? Consider trimming a few trees to let a little more light shine through, especially if the property is off-grid.
Are you going to be responsible for plowing in case of a snowstorm? Look into this since the state may handle some roads and others not.
Does the property need repairs? Mountains can be challenging places to live in, and can damage a home.
Location
Location is an essential factor to consider when choosing a mountain view property. Keep these critical aspects in mind:
Accessibility
Consider the property’s accessibility. Is it easily reachable by car, or is it in a remote location that may be difficult to access in the winter months? It’s good to have a good understanding of the property’s accessibility before purchasing it.
Homes on mountain land will often need private or unpaved roads for access. These roads don’t get the same maintenance as those in cities and will get covered in mud, water, snow, or ice, making them tricky to travel. Consider driving a four-wheel drive vehicle if your property has one; you’ll need it.
The privacy of a remote property in the mountains will draw you in, but be sure to consider its distance to amenities such as grocery stores, restaurants, and other essential services.
Available Outdoor Activities
Outdoor activities often draw people to live in mountain areas. See what nearby outdoor activities the property offers and how close it is to other outdoor activity venues.
Neighborhood
You should also consider the neighborhood. Check if it’s a safe community or if there have been any security issues in the past. Does it have a sense of community? This will also affect your lifestyle.
Consider enlisting the help of a local expert knowledgeable about rural properties and the rules of mountain areas about building permits, septic systems, wells, roads, and infrastructure.
Natural Disasters
Floods, mudslides, droughts, and forest fires are inevitable if you live in the mountains. You will need to store additional water in cisterns for drier periods and add drains for wetter periods. You should also be ready for evacuations when forest fires occur.
Building Materials
The building materials used in your mountain view house will determine its durability and overall aesthetic. Some of the aspects to consider include the following:
Quality of Construction
Make sure that the property is made to high-quality standards. Does it have good-quality finishes and fixtures? Does it show signs of shoddy construction or inadequate materials? Is it built with durable materials that can withstand the elements? A well-constructed property will provide comfort and safety that can withstand harsh weather.
Energy Efficiency
Consider the property’s energy efficiency, especially when you risk losing power from time to time. Are there features such as double-paned windows or insulation that will help reduce energy costs and keep your home comfortable year-round? An energy-efficient property will help you save money on utility bills in the long run.
Utilities
Utilities like power, water, and connectivity are necessary if you want to live in the mountains.
Power
Power outages happen more often in the mountains. You’ll need to stock up on extra flashlights, batteries, and candles. You’ll also need to store extra water, get a propane tank for cooking, and a backup generator if a power outage lasts up to five days.
Communication
Cell service is often unreliable or nonexistent in mountain areas. Internet, phone, and cable lines will also be inoperable during power outages. If an emergency arises, you’ll need to figure out how to reach out for help. This is another reason to have a generator.
Shared Wells
Mountain properties often share wells. Drilling wells is expensive the higher up the mountain you are and the deeper the digger must dig to access water. Your neighbor’s water usage may also affect the water pressure.
Cost and Financing
Your expenses will largely determine where and if you can live in a home with mountain views.
Budget
Determine a budget for your mountain view property and stick to it. Be ready with your home loan and lender before searching for properties. And when you do find a property, make sure it fits within your budget and that you’re comfortable with the monthly mortgage payment.
Additional Costs
Living in the mountains is highly rewarding, but it comes with additional costs. Mountainous areas tend to have higher homeonwer’s insurance rates than other parts of the country. You may also need to purchase additional insurance for fire and flood, so consider consulting with a professional to ensure your home and investment are adequately protected.
While you may get charged a premium price if you choose to live in a resort area, it will give you access to more amenities.
Affordability
Consider the overall affordability of the property. With everything you’ll need to prepare for, will it be easy to maintain and upgrade the property, or will it strain your finances?
Future Value
When purchasing a property, you should also consider its resale value and future appreciation potential. Factors such as location, existing and projected trends in the area, and any improvements or proposed developments should all be taken into account. A property is an investment, and you should look for one that will pay off.
Key Takeaway
Choosing a property in the mountains requires careful consideration of several key factors, such as location, views, size, building materials, price, and affordability. By evaluating each aspect, you can find a property that fits your needs and exceeds your expectations. Remember to set a budget, research the property’s future value, and trust your instincts. With the right preparation, investing in a mountain view property can be a rewarding experience filled with breathtaking views and long-lasting memories.
Find the mountain view property of your dreams.
While it may be cheaper to buy a mountain property than a coastal one, you may still need to take out a loan to afford one. Aside from helping you look for a property to buy, Cedar Home Loans offers the best Boulder home loans. Make your dream of living a peaceful life surrounded by incredible mountain vistas come true today.
