Why are people buying a vacation home in the mountains, especially when there are hotel rooms available, and condos or houses for rent? Because most people have “been there, done that” for many years, but want to put a stake in the ground and get more plugged-in to the mountain lifestyle. Yes, there is the potential for the value of the property to appreciate, but if your number one priority is to buy an appreciating asset, then call your portfolio manager or financial advisor, as there are lots of other places to invest your money. Buying a vacation home in the mountains may be a good long-term asset to hold as homes can increase in value, and the physical asset is what is being purchased, but it is primarily a means to the end. What you are really buying is a lifestyle and a journey. There is something special about being an owner rather than a visitor in a cool mountain town. Life is about the memories you create, people you meet, and the relationships you form. Being a part of a mountain town community and participating in local activities, events and adventures, and becoming part of the fabric of the community, can be fun and very rewarding.
The mountain lifestyle means something different to every person. In general, it is a more laid-back feel than the big city. The conversations you will have at the end of the day will be about the great adventures and fun times you had, and what excursion is on the schedule for tomorrow. The pace is slower in a mountain town, and it is not unusual to sit on a bench in town next to a stranger and find yourself in a wonderful conversation. Mountain towns attract a diverse demographic, and the socio- economic and political views of some may differ from yours. There is also diversity in the many seasonal recreational activities, as well as interesting performing arts in mountain towns. When you start to look at the calendar of events, you will be surprised at how many are available. Most of the things you will find yourself doing are not options in your primary residence locale (or those of your family and guests).
Buying a vacation home in the mountains provides a great opportunity to get to know other second homeowners and the permanent members of the community. It can be a fun investment of time and effort to get out there and meet people. Being a member of a club can be a good way to meet others at events, on the tennis court, golf course or slope-side. Most mountain towns have many non-profit organizations that host social events that are always looking for volunteers or board members, and this can be a very good way to both give back and expand your social sphere. Check the local paper or look online for when these groups meet or are hosting an event. The age-old adage is true: You will get out of it what you put into it. 
Your second home is also home base for your mountain adventures. As a second homeowner and frequent visitor to your new mountain dream home, you will start to explore more areas and do more. I think it is safe to say that 95 percent of all visitors to a ski town in the winter will be alpine skiing via the resort’s lift- served terrain. While few will have the knowledge, time, gear, or inclination to go Nordic skiing (classic or skate), snowshoeing, fat tire biking on the snow, climbing with an alpine touring (AT) ski set-up, ice fishing, snowmobiling, or many other fun pursuits that are available, buying a vacation home in the mountains will allow you to explore the unique options available.
The same scenario exists in the summer (but the list is longer), and you will find mountain streams with native cutthroat trout you did not know existed, and hiking trails off the beaten path that lead to beautiful mountain lakes, waterfalls or meadows filled with high alpine wild flowers. It can be a special moment to spot a herd of elk moving up high in the mountains during the summer, or a mother moose and her calf grazing in a wetland drainage.
Finally, one of the neatest things about having a mountain home is that it gives you the opportunity to share it with family, friends and clients. Many empty-nesters buy a second home in the mountains so their kids will have a fun place to come visit. In the early years, the kids may bring their friends, then perhaps a significant other, spouse, and then grandchildren. With the hustle and bustle of the world out there, most people don’t stay as connected with their families as much as they would like, and your invitation to family members can be a great way to reconnect in the mountains. 
If you or your spouse’s job includes business development or entertaining clients, buying a vacation home in the mountains is a great way to step out of the business setting to build deeper relationships with key clients. It can also be a great opportunity to use your mountain town as an off-site meeting locale that allows everyone to enjoy fun winter or summer activities.
How can I help you? I have over 30 years of sales and marketing experience and am a top real estate agent in the mountain town of Crested Butte, Colorado representing affluent clients who are buying and selling their dream homes and ranch properties in the mountains. To see featured properties or search the MLS – visit chriskopf.com. How is the Crested Butte Real Estate Market doing? Click this link to see my monthly Crested Butte Real Estate Market Reports. I appreciate the opportunity to earn your business and be your Crested Butte Real Estate Agent when buying a vacation home in the mountains.
Thanks,
Previews® Property Specialist
Coldwell Banker Bighorn Realty
(970) 209-5405
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