Breckenridge Luxury Home for Sale | 186 Golden Age Drive, Highlands Neighborhood Posted on October 16, 2025 - 1:53 pm by Stacy Sanchez Breckenridge Home For Sale | 186 Golden Age Drive Set high above town in Breckenridge’s sought-after Highlands neighborhood, 186 Golden Age Drive offers a rare combination of space, privacy, and refined design Listed at $5,250,000 (MLS #S1062588), this custom home spans approximately 6,516 square feet and rests on nearly two acres surrounded by towering pines, with sweeping views of the Tenmile Range and Lake Dillon. CLICK HERE TO SEE THE MLS LISTING FOR 186 GOLDEN AGE For discerning buyers searching for a Breckenridge luxury home for sale in The Highlands Neighborhood, this property delivers a perfect balance between mountain retreat and architectural sophistication. It’s a blend of a log exterior, with lots of modern touches on the inside to bring it to a Modern Transitional feel throughout the home. The Highlands Setting The Highlands at Breckenridge is one of the Breckenridge area’s premier residential neighborhoods. Set along the northern ridgelines above town, it combines a sense of retreat with unmatched access to recreation and amenities. Homes in this community are known for their large lots, thoughtful architecture, and unobstructed mountain vistas. From 186 Golden Age Drive, the bustle of Main Street Breckenridge is only a few minutes away. Residents can enjoy a morning coffee at a local café downtown, then return to peaceful surroundings within moments. The Breckenridge Golf Club, designed by Jack Nicklaus, is nearby, as are countless hiking and biking trails that weave through forested terrain and open ridgelines. The neighborhood’s elevation captures extended hours of sunlight and panoramic views of the Tenmile Range, while its layout ensures each property maintains a sense of seclusion. This combination of privacy, scenery, and convenience makes the Highlands one of the most desirable enclaves in Summit County. Architecture and Design Originally designed with timeless mountain architecture, 186 Golden Age Drive underwent a comprehensive renovation in 2018. The remodel elevated the home to a contemporary standard while honoring its alpine character. The exterior combines natural stone, timber accents, and clean lines of glass and steel. The result is a home that feels current but rooted in the mountain landscape. The great room serves as the focal point of the residence, with vaulted ceilings, exposed trusses, and floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the mountain landscape. Natural light floods the space throughout the day, and the evening alpenglow washes the room in warm tones. A massive stone fireplace provides both function and balance to the generous scale of the room. Interior Composition CLICK HERE TO SEE THE MLS LISTING FOR 186 GOLDEN AGE The home’s five bedrooms and seven bathrooms are spread across multiple levels, offering both connectivity and privacy. The floor plan accommodates large gatherings yet provides quiet spaces for rest and retreat. The kitchen was designed for serious cooking and entertaining. It features premium appliances, a large center island with seating, and generous storage within custom cabinetry. The flow between the kitchen, dining, and great room supports effortless hosting or family living. The primary suite occupies its own wing, creating a private sanctuary within the home. It includes a spa-inspired bathroom with a soaking tub, walk-in shower, dual vanities, and direct access to a private deck. Guest suites are equally well-appointed, each with ensuite baths and comfortable proportions. The lower level includes a media room and family lounge, along with a hot tub and sauna — perfect for unwinding after a day in the mountains. The home is furnished and turn-key, allowing new owners to begin enjoying it immediately. Connection to the Outdoors Set on nearly two acres, 186 Golden Age Drive takes full advantage of its setting. Expansive decks and patios invite year-round enjoyment—whether for quiet mornings surrounded by forest or evenings watching the sun drop behind the peaks. The property’s orientation ensures privacy without isolation. Mature evergreens screen neighboring homes while framing the dramatic alpine views that define the Breckenridge experience. The site captures both sunrise and sunset light, and its elevation above town enhances the sense of openness and scale. In winter, owners can easily access skiing and snowboarding at one of the many resorts near the home including The Breckenridge Ski Resort, Keystone Resort, Copper Mountain, and Arapahoe Basin. For human powered pursuits, guests can choose between snowshoeing, fat biking and cross-country trails at the nearby Gold Run Nordic Center. In summer, hiking and mountain biking begin at the edge of the neighborhood and have the famous flume trails nearby that connect with even more trails in The Golden Horseshoe. Every season offers a new perspective on the surrounding wilderness. Investment in Legacy Luxury homes in Breckenridge’s Highlands neighborhood are more than residences—they’re enduring investments in both lifestyle and legacy. With limited land availability and architectural standards that protect the integrity of the area, properties of this caliber remain consistently desirable. 186 Golden Age Drive stands as a strong example of long-term value. Its thoughtful renovation, expansive views, and nearly two-acre setting distinguish it from newer construction while offering the confidence of proven craftsmanship and location. Its balance of privacy, proximity to town, and timeless design makes it equally suited for immediate enjoyment and long-term appreciation. In a market where truly exceptional homes are increasingly rare, this property represents both a sound investment and a generational retreat—one that will continue to hold meaning and value well into the future. With every architectural detail and location advantage working in harmony, 186 Golden Age Drive offers a complete picture of enduring value—both as a home and as an asset. The Opportunity Few Highlands homes offer this rare balance of privacy, scale, and timeless design. 186 Golden Age Drive stands out not only for its craftsmanship and setting, but for what it represents—a turnkey opportunity to step into one of Breckenridge’s most established luxury neighborhoods without compromise. For those ready to make Breckenridge part of their long-term lifestyle, this property offers more than square footage or finishes—it offers permanence. The kind of home that defines a mountain legacy and rewards its owners in both experience and value. To explore this exceptional Highlands residence or schedule a private showing, contact Dina Sanchez for more information and availability. CLICK HERE TO SEE THE MLS LISTING FOR 186 GOLDEN AGE Property Details – 186 Golden Age Drive | Refined Mountain Living in Breckenridge’s Highlands Neighborhood Address: 186 Golden Age Drive, Breckenridge CO 80424Neighborhood: Highlands at BreckenridgePrice: $5,250,000MLS #: S1062588Size: Approximately 6,516 sq ftBedrooms: 5Bathrooms: 7Lot Size: Approximately 1.8 acresYear Built / Remodeled: 2018 renovation Discover Highlands Living 186 Golden Age Drive exemplifies what makes Breckenridge’s Highlands neighborhood so desirable: privacy, architectural integrity, and a seamless connection to the outdoors. It’s a home that feels both expansive and grounded, offering its owners a daily reminder of the beauty that defines Summit County. To arrange a private tour or explore other Highlands and Breckenridge luxury homes currently available, contact: Dina Sanchez | Broker AssociateBreckenridge Associates Real Estate(970) 390-2343Search Breckenridge Properties Notice: JavaScript is required for this content.
Breckenridge Colorado – Condo For Sale: 214 S. Ridge St. #6 Posted on November 7, 2024 - 7:32 pm by Stacy Sanchez Live the Dream, Live in a Condo in Downtown Breck This blog is titled “Breckenridge, Colorado – Condo For Sale: 214 S. Ridge St. #6” and is all about an opportunity to own a property in the coveted downtown area of The Kingdom of Breckenridge. Scroll down for details and lots of pictures! MLS LISTING – CLICK HERE Discover Modern Living in the Heart of Breckenridge – 214 S Ridge St #6 Here’s the property description as it appears on Zillow: “Come see the outstanding transformation of this super located townhouse. One block from Breckenridge Main Street in the historic part of town. All new kitchen, baths, flooring, paint, window coverings, water heater and a classy glass railing. Qualified buyers can benefit from an attractive rate buy down by the seller. Enjoy walking to all Breckenridge has to offer, restaurants, entertainment, gondola, dog park, grocery store, bank and post office without having to find parking. Plus there is a bus stop conveniently located out the front door. Recent new roof with warranty, exterior paint and no special assessments on the radar. Co-Listing agent is the seller.” Want to Live Like a Local? This beautiful condo for sale in the heart of Breckenridge’s historic downtown is co-listed by Dina Sanchez and Mark Campione, both longtime locals and real estate agents. This location is a rare opportunity to walk practically everywhere in Breck, with the convenience of a nearby bus stop for places you’d rather not walk to. Prime Downtown Location with Mountain Charm Imagine living steps from everything Breckenridge has to offer: world-class dining, charming shops, scenic trails, and the bustling culture of this iconic mountain town. At 214 S Ridge St #6, you’ll find a perfect blend of convenience, luxury, and the undeniable charm of historic downtown. This recently transformed townhouse offers a rare opportunity to experience mountain living at its finest, right in the heart of Breckenridge’s historic district. Whether you’re looking for a full-time home, a seasonal retreat, or a rental investment, this property is perfectly poised to offer it all. Key Details: Price: $1,195,000 Square Footage: 1,140 sqft Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 2 HOA Fee: $3,300 annually Parking: Assigned spaces for two vehicles Year Built: 1972, fully updated in recent years MLS LISTING – CLICK HERE Modern Mountain Living Meets Historic Charm This townhouse has seen an incredible makeover that marries contemporary style with mountain character. From the brand-new kitchen, boasting sleek countertops and high-end finishes, to the fully remodeled bathrooms, this home is ready for someone who values both design and function. The newly installed glass railing adds a modern, open feel to the space, enhancing its sophistication while allowing the light to flow freely between rooms. Fresh paint, new flooring, and updated window coverings bring a bright, welcoming atmosphere that’s ready for you to make it your own. With these recent renovations, including a new water heater and roof with a warranty, this townhouse offers worry-free ownership in a highly desirable area. You can truly relax and enjoy the mountain lifestyle without the hassle of major upgrades or repairs down the road. Live the Ultimate Downtown Breckenridge Lifestyle This location is second to none—just one block off Main Street, where you’ll find some of Breckenridge’s most beloved attractions. Imagine starting your mornings with a stroll to your favorite coffee shop as the town comes to life around you. From this address, you’re mere minutes from fine dining, local boutiques, and entertainment, all accessible without the need to drive or hunt for parking. When you’re ready to hit the slopes, the Breckenridge gondola is within walking distance, allowing you to ski or snowboard with unparalleled ease. Enjoy an effortless day on the mountain and return home without a car, cutting down on the time spent in transit so you can maximize your adventure time. For those seeking outdoor activities beyond skiing, this location offers access to year-round recreation. In warmer months, take advantage of nearby hiking and biking trails that wind through scenic alpine forests. Or, simply relax in town and enjoy a meal with views of the Tenmile Range—a true treat for residents who want to experience Breckenridge’s beauty every day. Additional Features & Updates This townhouse is designed for both comfort and style, with updates that make it a true standout in the neighborhood: All-New Kitchen and Baths: Thoughtfully designed with high-quality finishes for a contemporary, luxurious feel. Classy Glass Railing: Adds an elegant, open vibe to the space. New Water Heater: Enjoy hot showers and warm comfort with a new, efficient system. Recently Painted Exterior and New Roof: Ensures peace of mind with no special assessments anticipated. These enhancements mean that new owners can immediately enjoy their investment without any interruptions or worries about necessary repairs. The exterior has been freshly painted, and a recent roof installation comes with a warranty for added protection. MLS LISTING – CLICK HERE A Downtown Location with All the Convenience Breckenridge is known for its vibrant energy, and this townhouse sits right in the middle of it all. From grocery stores and banks to the post office and even the local dog park, everything you need for daily life is nearby, making this home as convenient as it is charming. With public transit options and a bus stop just outside the front door, getting around couldn’t be easier—ideal for anyone looking to leave the car behind and explore the town on foot. The property’s central location also makes it a strong candidate for short-term rentals or as a vacation home with investment potential. Visitors flock to Breckenridge year-round, and properties with this level of convenience and style are in high demand. As Breckenridge continues to grow in popularity as both a tourist destination and a desirable place to live, homes like this one are rare finds. Seller Offering Attractive Rate Buy-Down For qualified buyers, the seller is offering a rate buy-down, creating an opportunity for savings on your mortgage. This financial advantage makes it even more enticing to own a piece of downtown Breckenridge, where real estate continues to be a valuable asset. Experience All the Seasons of Breckenridge from Your New Home Each season brings something special to Breckenridge, and this location lets you savor it all. Picture spending cozy winter evenings just steps away from twinkling holiday lights on Main Street. As summer arrives, watch the town bloom with festivals, art shows, and farmers’ markets—all within easy walking distance. This townhouse is more than just a place to live; it’s a gateway to everything Breckenridge has to offer. Whether you’re drawn to the slopes, the shopping, or the sheer beauty of the Colorado mountains, 214 S Ridge St #6 provides an ideal base for all your adventures. Make 214 S Ridge St #6 Your Own Ready to experience downtown Breckenridge like never before? This townhouse won’t be on the market for long. Contact us to schedule a private showing, and see for yourself how this stunning home can fit into your lifestyle. From its modern updates to its unmatched location, 214 S Ridge St #6 is truly one of a kind. Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of Breckenridge’s vibrant community! MLS LISTING – CLICK HERE Contact Dina Sanchez or Mark Campione for Seller Details MLS LISTING – CLICK HERE Thanks for reading about this Condo For Sale in Breckenridge, 214 S. Ridge St. #6. This unit will be a great place to make memories of a mountain lifestyle that few dare to think about, let alone pull the trigger, make the move and life the dream. We would love to help you find your way home. Contact us on our Contact Page, or using the form below. Notice: JavaScript is required for this content.
Spring 2024 – Breckenridge CO Real Estate Blog and Market Update Posted on May 8, 2024 - 6:54 pm by Stacy Sanchez This blog post is titled Spring 2024 – Breckenridge CO Real Estate Blog and Market Update as we will share a few blog articles that have numbers and opinions in them, as well as what we’re staying busy with at the moment. We had snow a few days ago and the first of the spring flowers are already up around town. This is the time of year that a lot of folks call “Mud Season” as the snow begins to melt and the trails and ground begins to thaw and soften up, releasing the frozen moisture that has been trapped in the ice and snow for months. All of this mud gets on our shoes, our cars and it’s as simple as removing shoes before going inside. A good idea is to have a large rug and boot tray to catch drips and melting snow and mud from shoes and boots. The diehard skiers are still able to take a bus up to the base of Peak 8 and ski a good amount of runs while the mountain decides how long to stay open, as there is no set date as of yet. The ski area stays open through May, of course conditions considered and it can shut down any day. But, for now, skiers and riders can wear lighter clothes, enjoy warmer temperatures and push around some soft spring snow. Colorado Home Prices Remain Strong and are Rising According to a Summit Daily News article, the home prices in Breckenridge and Summit County are on the rise, at the least for the first part of the year. How it pans out for the rest of the year remains to be seen. Here are some stats from the article: “Single-family home prices in Summit County are up anywhere from 18% to 38% for the first quarter of 2024, according to various real estate data sets. According to an April report by Land Title Guarantee Company, the average price for a single family home between January and March of this year was $2,459,847 — an 18% increase over 2023. The report looks at actual recorded transactions at the county clerk and recorder’s office. For three years now, the average and median residential price in the county has been over $1 million, with the first quarter of 2024 seeing a “record number of residential closings (54%) over $1 million,” the report states. The Colorado Association of Realtors, a state branch of the national association, records market trends through data on its multiple listing service, which tracks real estate transactions that are conducted with licensed Realtor agents. Its reports show even larger gains. According to the association’s most recent market analysis, the average single-family home price year-to-date was $2,717,442, a 38% increase from the prior year.” Redfin Articles Discuss Colorado Housing Market Real estate search engine and industry leader, Redfin, has writeen a number of articles that discuss the Colorado housing market and are providing more numbers and data for you to analyze, should be interested in the trends and actual numbers. We understand that sometimes houses sell at prices for sheer proximity to the lifts, or command a higher price because of the views, and / or ability to short term rent. If you are new to our blog, we have wrtitten a number of articles that share links to the various towns and municipalities around Summit County and allow users to find the information they need to continue their search for the best property that will fit the needs of their family. if you can’t seem to locate those articles or links, click on blog, and then scroll through the headlines to find the ones that discuss the Short Term Rental (STR) restrictions and regulations. Silverthorne Home Prices Rising In the Colorado Housing Market Overview, it has Silverthorne home prices rising, just behind Golden, for the #2 spot in Colorado. Top 10 Metros in Colorado with the Fastest Growing Sales Price Golden, CO. 55.1% Silverthorne, CO. 36.8% This information comes as there is now news of no major metro areas prices decreasing. Housing Market Update: For the First Time in Nearly 2 Years, There’s No Major American Metro Where Home Prices Are Falling: Inventory is below typical April levels, driving home prices up. Continually rising mortgage rates are further eroding affordability–and this week’s Fed meeting confirmed that mortgage rates are likely to hold steady for the foreseeable future. And, while many thought mortgage rates may fall, they haven’t made the plunge that some buyers were hoping for. There’s a lot at work that goes into that, and this blog does not discuss those macroeconomic facts and variables. There are many sources for that, and this is not one of them. Breckenridge is Almost Out of Land Another variable for the future pricing of homes and land in Breckenridge and Summit include the overall inventory and how it’s running out. This will more than likely increase existing homes prices. Breckenridge and Blue River approach limit on residential development, as outlined by Upper Blue Basin master plan: Summit County is not too far from reaching the limit on new residential development in towns and unincorporated areas in the Upper Blue Basin. Breckenridge is currently at 93% of its residential build out — or essentially the amount of residential units the area can hold, as determined by locals officials — according to town staff. Blue River town staff members say they are at 91% of their residential limit. The estimated residential density for unincorporated parts of the Upper Blue Basin is reevaluated each year, and county staff say they are still finalizing the analysis for 2023. As of Dec. 31, 2022, unincorporated areas of Summit County in the Upper Blue Basin were at approximately 76% of the limit. Contact Us with Questions I know this is a lot of information, but some of our client ask for this data and this is just a sampling of what’s out there. We hope this helps you on your home buying or home selling journey. We are currently helping buyers find the right place and we have a couple of homes for sale in the Summit County area. Please use the form below or visit the CONTACT page for more information,. Notice: JavaScript is required for this content.
Breckenridge Home For Sale: 208 N Ridge St. Posted on February 3, 2024 - 11:43 am by Stacy Sanchez Walk to the Gondola & Downtown Breckenridge Welcome to 208 N Ridge St., a rare newer construction home in the heart of downtown Breckenridge. Designed in a Modern Victorian style, this 3-bedroom, 3.5-bath residence offers something buyers actively search for—a true walk-to-gondola lifestyle, just minutes from Main Street shops, dining, and year-round events. If you want to ski, explore town, and enjoy Breckenridge without relying on a car, this location delivers. ✅ Walk to the Gondola & Main Street✅ Downtown Historic District✅ Newer construction✅ 3 BD | 3.5 BA | Tandem garage✅ Offered under $4M 👉 Watch the full video tour and see why homes like this are so rare in downtown Breckenridge.👉 Click below to view photos, pricing, and details on Zillow. Zillow Listing >> CLICK HERE to see more pics When you’re ready to schedule a private showing, please CONTACT US and we can figure out the best time to see this and other homes that may work best for you and your family. Under $4M and Walkable to the Gondola — Breckenridge, COWatch this video on YouTube >> CLICK HERE to see more pics and details Still have questions? Send us a message using the form below. Notice: JavaScript is required for this content.
How to Search for a Breckenridge Short Term Rental Investment Property Posted on July 21, 2022 - 3:40 pm by Stacy Sanchez How to Search for a Breckenridge Short Term Rental Investment Property This blog is about How to Search for a Breckenridge Short Term Rental Investment Property as it’s become a confusing subject over the last year with many talks and discussions happening in the community. Now, for clarification, this is ONLY for the properties that lie within the Town of Breckenridge town limits and does NOT apply to unincorporated Breckenridge, or any other towns. I’ve already written a comprehensive blog that provides links to the other municipalities in around the Summit County, Colorado area including Blue River, Copper Mountain, Dillon, Frisco, Keystone and Silverthorne. We work with buyers who are researching numerous areas asn an investment possibility, so I even included nearby areas such as Park and Eagle County towns like Alma, Fairply, Vail and Beaver Creek. It’s also a good idea to look into the Denver area as a comparison, so you can find that information on that blog also. You can CLICK HERE TO READ and find those links. >> https://mountainhabitat.co/short-term-rentals-in-breckenridge Town of Breckenridge Overlay Zones The Town of Breck just posted a PDF and searchable map on their Facebook page (July 21, 2022) that shows the most current information about where STRs (Short Term Rental) are allowed, and what zone they would fall under. “We have a new Proposed Short-Term Rental Zoning and Regulations page on our website! On the site you will find the proposed STR cap numbers, a searchable GIS map of Proposed Tourism Overlay Zones, and background information on the ordinance. Council will be reviewing this new ordinance later this summer. Use this link to get the most up to date information on the proposed STR zoning and regulation.“ >>. CLICK HERE FOR LINK If for some reason the link isn’t working, I’m going to provide the information below. I’ve copied the text below just to have it all on this page for easy reference and convenience. Proposed Short Term Rental Zoning and Regulations In the fall of 2021, the Breckenridge Town Council passed an ordinance that would cap the number of short-term rental licenses at a total of 2,200 (not including condo/hotel properties currently considered “exempt”). After implementation of the short-term rental license cap, the Town Council heard the public concern that a blanket cap was insufficient because certain areas of Town are better suited for short-term rentals. The Town Council responded by creating the Tourism Overlay District Task Force. The Task Force was formed to identify areas of Town where additional short-term rental licensing may occur. The Task Force was comprised of members of the public from several sectors, including property management, real estate, short-term rental license exempt properties, at-large citizens, and representatives from Town Council and Planning Commission. The Task Force met six times between November 2021 and February 2022. In April 2022, the Task Force’s recommendation of a three zone approach to short-term rental licensing and a recommended map were presented to Town Council. The three zones can be described as a Tourism Zone (Zone 1), the downtown core (Zone 2), and single family residential areas (Zone 3). A consensus on the exact number of short-term licenses that would be allowed within each zone was not reached by the Task Force; however, they anticipated the zones working so that the number of short-term licenses within Zone 1 would remain the same or possibly increase, the number of short-term licenses within Zone 2 would remain the same or slightly decrease, and the number of short-term licenses in Zone 3 would significantly decrease. The Town Council then held six work sessions regarding the short-term rental zones between April and July 2022. They took the Task Force recommendation and modified the three zone approach so that the zones more closely align with the Town’s established Land Use Districts. On July 12, the Town Council came to an agreement on the following: a new “Resort Properties” definition to replace “exempt” status, the boundaries of the three zones, and proposed cap numbers for each of the zones. The proposed zones and cap numbers represent a compromise to allow for more short-term rental licenses in areas of Town best suited for tourism while staying beneath the overall cap number of 2,200 in Zones 1-3. The table below shows the number of existing short-term rental licenses and the proposed allowed short-term rental licenses within each zone. The proposed zones and updates to the existing ordinance will be presented for adoption at an upcoming Town Council meeting and are subject to change. The Town Council Proposed Tourism Overlay Zones map pdf shows the three proposed short-term rental licensing zones agreed to by the Town Council. A searchable GIS map of the Proposed Tourism Overlay Zones is available here. You can determine a specific property’s zone by searching for the address, subdivision, or schedule number of the property. The proposed license caps do not affect existing short-term rental licenses in any zone. If you currently hold a short-term rental license you will be able to continue to rent your property as normal. Licenses are only relinquished through property sales, since they are non-transferable, or owner non-renewal. As properties are sold or as property owners decide not to renew short term rental licenses, the total number of licenses are anticipated to decrease within Zones 2 and 3, with the goal of eventually meeting the targeted cap numbers. Each zone will be handled separately in terms of license caps and availability of future licenses. The Town Council has to take official action and pass these ordinance revisions before these new laws would take place 35 days after a second reading. Additional information regarding short-term rental licenses and FAQs. Fee revenue generated by short-term rentals will not be included in the Town’s general operating budget. Instead a Regulatory Fee Fund will be established and funds will be used to support the Town’s workforce housing policies and programs, including buy downs, lease-to-locals, acquisition of deed restricted units, and/or construction of new units. For more information on the Town’s housing initiatives please visit the Town’s housing website https://www.townofbreckhousing.com/. For additional information on the short-term rental zones, contact Sarah Crump, Planner I, at sarahc@townofbreckenridge.com. How to Search for a Breckenridge Short Term Rental Investment Property We hope this post was helpful and if you have any questions or need assistance searching, evaluating and negotiating the purchase of a new Breckenridge Short Term Rental Investment Property, the STR rules and relevant regulations, and whatever else could come up. Contact us today or fill out the form below to select the most important needs and wants for your dream home in Breckenridge. Once you have it, you can then enjoy and share it with others that value a high quality family experience in Summit County, Colorado. Real Estate and Property Services. Thanks for reading!
7 Reasons Why Now is the The Time To Buy Posted on July 3, 2022 - 5:35 pm by Stacy Sanchez INTRODUCTION If you’ve found this blog post, chances are you saw an ad or have been researching homes and properties in the mountains of Summit County, Colorado. We’ve already compiled a list of neighborhoods, a comprehensive list of STR (Short Term Rental) regulations for the Town of Breckenridge as well as other resources, including a video that shows the passion of this website’s featured broker, Dina Sanchez. Please read the following information as a summary of ideas and then contact us with any questions or comments. Or, feel free to skip this article and call or email right away to get started on your search for the dream home your family has always wanted. Click here for contact information. #1 – MORE INVENTORY Increased options for buyers, simply put, there’s more to choose from. The shift is bouncing back from historic lows to something closer to normal. #2 – LESS COMPETITION Decreased number of buyers means less likelihood of a bidding war. #3 – BETTER NEGOTIATIONS Buyers can come in with a stronger negotiation strategy. Cash is still king, but still make a plan to come in with a strong offer with a substantial earnest money deposit, appraisal gap contingency and less potential objections. #4 – PROTECTION AGAINST INFLATION Over the last year, the market has seen inflation and a change in the buying power of the dollar. While these changes can affect the stock market for the worse, real estate weathers the inflation storm. Many times, inflation can benefit property owners. Rent and real estate prices tend to rise with inflation. [Source] #5 – BUILD EQUITY NOW Start accruing equity through appreciation, approximately 10-15% annually. See Values section below. #6 – MAKE A PLAN TO REFINANCE Mortgage pros say to get in now and buy your forever home, but it won’t be your forever mortgage, as you can make a plan to refinance when rates fall again. Mortgage forecasting states that the rates will decrease in time, and therefore again increasing competition and returning to the market to its previous state (low inventory, extremely competitive sellers market, etc.) [See video below or click here] #7 – THE MARKET IS NOT GOING TO CRASH While some think that the market is going to crash and prices will drop significantly, that may not happen. Yes, you will see price drops and homes will sit longer on the market, but that does not constitute a crash. Some believe our mountain markets are a bit more recession-proof and others look to the following items to consider: 1)The recent growth in home prices is because of demographics and low inventory and 2) Credit risks are low because underwriting and lending standards are sound. [Source] Mortgage Pro Opinion – Josh Smith We met Josh as a client and have now come to work with Josh as a colleague and friend. He splits his time between Texas and Colorado and is licensed in both states and can help shed some light on the current market with the following video. Please let us know if we can help patch you through to ask Josh more questions. He’s one of a few mortgage pros we recommend potential buyers consider when working on the financial part of the equation when purchasing a Colorado home near Breckenridge. Recession, Home Values, and Interest RatesWatch this video on YouTube FOR DISCUSSION AND FURTHER CONSIDERATION Lack of Inventory Q. What caused the lack of housing, was it the Pandemic? A. The pandemic didn’t produce this imbalance, but it did exacerbate it. Supply was temporarily hindered by a coronavirus-related pause in construction and by supply-chain-related shortages of building materials. And demand for spacious suburban houses was pushed upward as many Americans, especially remote workers, turned their attention away from downtown urban areas. [Source] Inflation and the overall Global Market Influence Q. What’s causing the decline in the markets this year? In short, inflation, interest rate increases, the war in Ukraine, higher oil prices, supply chain issues, and lower corporate earnings have all put downward pressure on stock prices. These factors, in addition to the collapse of a stablecoin called Terra and withdrawal freezes from crypto firm Celsius, have contributed to large declines in crypto as well. Home Values “I just don’t see the the kind of mortgage defaults and distressed sales that would be necessary for big declines in housing values. That’s when you get crashes, when you have lots of foreclosures and a lot of distressed sales,” Zandi says. “That’s just not going to happen.” [Source] “I don’t think you’re going to see homes go down in value really. The truth is, real estate always does pretty well during a recession. What will change, however, is the anxiety of buyers.” (Orman predicted house sellers would no longer receive dozens of offers above their asking prices, and warned buyers would face pricier mortgages and higher property taxes, insurance premiums, and maintenance costs.) [Source] Fears of a Recession – Why it May or May Not Happen Not only does JPMorgan not expect an economic recession to materialize anytime soon, but it expects a reacceleration in global economic growth, the note said. “While the probability of recession increased meaningfully, we do not see it as a base case over the next 12 months. In fact, we see global growth accelerating from 1.3% in the first half of this year to 3.1% in the second half,” JPMorgan said. It said much of that growth would be driven by China, whose economy could grow by as much as 7.5% in the second half of the year, as long as lockdowns don’t resume. That strong growth would trickle down to other emerging-market economies, the bank said. [Source] DISCLAIMER * All statements and discussion points are subject to the author’s opinion and links to sources are provided whenever possible. Readers are advised to conduct their own research to be as informed as possible. Notice: JavaScript is required for this content.
Keystone, Colorado Condo For Sale – Oro Grande Lodge #312 Posted on June 16, 2022 - 4:38 pm by Stacy Sanchez Location and Views New to the Summit County Real Estate market is this Keystone, Colorado Condo For Sale – Oro Grande Lodge #312. This unit is a two bedroom, two bath with lots of amenities and storage options. The living room and bedrooms have sunny south-facing windows that has the Keystone Resort as the dominant landscape. You’ll be able to look out the window and get a feel for how much snow is out there and how sunny it is at the moment. See the MLS Listing by CLICKING HERE Short Term Rentals Allowed Please refer to official documentation found on the Summit County government’s website:Keystone & Copper Mountain – The resort areas of Keystone and Copper Mountain and portions of the Peak 8 Breckenridge ski area are exempt from this moratorium. Source: https://www.summitcountyco.gov/1221/Short-Term-Rentals Resort Overlay Map: https://www.summitcountyco.gov/DocumentCenter/View/34090/Resort-Overlay-Zone?bidId= UPDATED: New Price Improvement + Furniture Package Value added furniture package newly delivered to the unit and ready for the next family to enjoy! Please see the following images and video to see the updated look and feel of the interior at this Keystone Condo For Sale – Oro Grande Lodge #312. Keystone Condo For Sale - Oro Grande Lodge 312Watch this video on YouTubeUPDATED Video: New Furniture Package Keystone Condo For Sale - Oro Grande Lodge 312Watch this video on YouTubePre-furniture unit tour. Living Room and Dining Area South-facing Balcony Deck The views from the balcony deck include views of Independence Mountain as well as Two Bedrooms and Two Bathrooms Owners will be able to wake up, drink their coffee or tea at the kitchen bar, or sit down at the dining table for a proper breakfast for a long day on the hill. Keystone has three mountains to explore (more on the resort below), so make sure you’re ready the day with the right fuel. Guests can use the hallway bathroom while the larger master bedroom has an ensuite bathroom accessed from inside the bedroom. Search the Summit County MLS We have the official MLS listing below, and also it has the most up to date information about properties int he area. Other sites may show out of date information or have other errors. See the MLS Listing by CLICKING HERE Bathtub is to the right in this image. Both bedrooms have closets and the dining area has a large closet for coats and other items. You won’t need to bring your skis up to the unit as there are lockers that guests and owners use to store their gear on the ground level. When you’re ready to leave, you won’t waste time digging out or brushing snow off your car as there is a heated garage that will have your vehicle ready to go. Outdoor overflow parking is in front of the building. More detailed information about the building follows. See the MLS Listing by CLICKING HERE Virtually Staged Images To give a better idea of what the potential for this unit is, we employed the services of a digital team and have the following images that shows the unit virtually staged. Oro Grande Lodge Searching for information about the building and I find the description from the Summit Resort Group, the organization that manages the HOA. This is a good summary, so I will share it here for you to get a snapshot of the building. ORO GRANDE LODGE – 22787 US Hwy 6, Keystone, COA fifty unit four-story condominium complex located in Keystone Colorado. Construction is pre-stressed concrete & frame. The exterior is stucco and the roof is asphalt shingle. The building is served by a common entry that accesses two elevators and a handicap lift. Units are accessed by common hallways on each level. Common areas include an attractive lobby area, an indoor pool with hot tub, an exercise room, laundry rooms, ski locker storage rooms, vending machines and a parking garage on the east end of the building.Exterior grounds are made up of attractive lawns, improved flower beds, natural areas and exterior parking. The following is a list of building amenities that are available to owners. This allows you to enjoy the mountains more as you can leave the maintenance and upkeep to the HOA. Indoor PoolIndoor Hot TubOutdoor Grill AreaLobby with Seating AreaFree Wireless InternetUnderground Heated Parking GarageCoin-operated Laundry FacilitiesSki Lockers Mountain View Plaza Across the street to the east is the Mountain View Plaza. This complex is home to a grocery store, liquor store, Dos Locos Mexican Restaurant, Subway, and Mountain View Sports. This provides owners and guests a convenient location for food and mountain rentals. You can find that this plaza is walkable as is the Mountain House Base Area. Keystone Resort shuttles provide access to the River Run Village and other area stops. Keystone Resort “Keystone Resort is a ski resort located in Keystone, Colorado, United States. Since 1997 the resort has been owned and operated by Vail Resorts. It consists of three mountains – Dercum Mountain, North Peak, the Outback – and five Bowls offering skiing at all levels.” Wikipedia Winter Trail Map If you click the link below, you’ll find a PDF of the winter trails at the Keystone Resort. They even have new improvements opening this winter as well. https://mountainhabitat.co/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Keystone-Resort-Map.pdf Bergman Bowl Project From the Keystone Resort’s Facebook Page… “This winter, get ready to adventure further to new heights, and for the first time ever, experience lift-served access to Bergman and Erickson Bowls! In anticipation, we’ll be bringing the project to life all summer, showcasing the progress and stories #BehindBergman and photos and videos that will get you excited to be #BergmanBound this winter. With the construction of a new 6-passenger lift, the Bergman Bowl Express, 555 acres of high alpine bowl terrain will become lift accessible, including 16 new trails. And, 16 new trails mean 16 new trail names! So, to kick off the excitement, we’ll be sharing out custom Wordles every day on our stories so you can play along in revealing the new trail names. The one returning trail name is Jane’s Journey, so we’re sharing this one as a freebie to kick things off! Follow our trail name blog as we’ll be sharing all of the trail names as they’re revealed.“ Click the link for more information: https://www.keystoneresort.com/…/bergman-bowl-project.aspx Mountain House Base Area and Peru Chairlift The Mountain House Base Area received an overhaul a few years back. The Keystone Resort wrote a blog and shared some images and backstory to this area. It’s a nice alternative to the busy River Run Village. https://blog.keystoneresort.com/featured/the-making-of-peru/ Keystone Real Estate and Property We are longtime Summit County locals and know the different areas that are in and around Keystone, Colorado. We’ve helped families find new homes in the Keystone Ranch neighborhood, which is near the golf course and Keystone Stables. There are also homes to the east of River Run Village, on the way to Montezuma, a funky little town at the top of the road. Some locals really like the vibe and don’t mind the short drive up to this spot. Ask us how to find you the best place for your family’s needs. Breckenridge and Summit County Real Estate As longtime locals in Breckenridge, we are very familiar with the different neighborhoods, and have even recently sold new construction in the heart of the historic district. Please click here for the neighborhood blog and here for the new construction sale. Contact us to Learn More Contact us to learn more about how we will go to work for you and help you find answers to your questions and to help you find the next chapter in your family’s story. Notice: JavaScript is required for this content.
New Construction in Breckenridge – Home For Sale: SOLD Posted on May 8, 2022 - 8:49 am by Stacy Sanchez This post is titled, New Construction in Breckenridge – Home For Sale: SOLD, as we are happy to help another family find their dream home in the mountains! This Colorado-based family loves to ski, hike and explore the mountains near Breckenridge, and this property will help them establish a base camp that will allow them to do all of those things and more. Walking Distance to the Gondola It’s rare to find new construction in the heart of the downtown historic district and this one is only a few minutes of walking to the gondola, perfect to just wake up, boot up and head on up to catch some fresh turns. This home was built by a longtime local contractor and they did an impeccable job with the details and craftsmanship. This home has an upper level with two bedrooms and bathrooms, while the main living area has a nice kitchen, dining and living room. Around the corner behind the living and kitchen space is. another exit and an in home office / desk area and more storage. Helping Families Live Their Dreams We really do try to find the best property for families, and take into consideration all their wishes and wants. Some want to be further out of town, or in a specific neighborhood, while others just say a few needs and then we keep them informed of any listings that come up as a potential match. Most of our clients don’t live in town, and we strive to be responsive and immediately perform property previews for clients and shoot videos with notes on any concerns or items that are pertinent to the purchase. Client Testimonial Once the home was sold and the family spent their first few days in the house, Dina received this text from the new owner. It shows how happy they are with the house and that made Dina smile and feel good about the sale. These images show the upper level bedrooms that have ski area views out the windows and are in the downtown historic district. The airy ceilings make the home feel large and spacious, when in fact, it’s actually an efficient space that utilized modern features that allow for comfortable living. “Thanks Dina! Dream come true… we are very lucky, we are at the new house and truly love this place it is amazing!” – J Family Friendly Construction The builders of this Breckenridge home understand that when families visit, it’s nice for the kids to have a bit of their own private space. In the lower level of this home is a set of beds on an elevated bunk style platform that has dimmable LED lights built into a practical and useful ledge for toys, clocks, and other small items. A closet under the stairs provides a space to throw everything into, as well as an additional small crouch room that’s perfect for small children to feel like they have their own fort or play area. Buy and Sell a Home in Breckenridge Thanks for reading about one of our most recent home sales in the Breck area. We’d love to be able to help you or someone you know with buying and / or selling their mountain home. Some families are ready to leave the mountains and we utilize the latest in video and photography options to put forward a tech savvy approach to selling. We also have lots of options for syndicating listings to reach buyers worldwide. Whatever your needs are, we can advise and adapt to your wishes. Live your dreams. We can help. Use the form below or visit our contact and about pages for more information.
Solid Reasons to Buy and Sell in Summit County, Colorado Posted on April 16, 2018 - 6:53 pm by Stacy Sanchez Solid Reasons to Buy and Sell in Summit County, Colorado In this blog, we’re providing a list of embedded posts that explain a few Solid Reasons to Buy and Sell in Summit County, Colorado. We share from other sources on our own Facebook page, so please follow us to learn more about the best of Breckenridge has to offer. Did you know we have hundreds of miles of high mountain mining roads and singletrack to explore? Plus, if you do get hurt, know that you’re in a good place to reach high quality care, with our hospital receiving high accolades. And, you’ll travel between Denver International Airport, one of the top 30 in the country. Breckenridge Real Estate and Property Search – Summit County MLS It’s easy to find reasons to want to spend time here, or be able to offer your property to others, we have the resources and the community knowledge to provide you the best recommendations when buying or selling homes in the Breckenridge area. For those considering an investment piece, we are working with local property management companies for revenue projections and property care and maintenance. Securing a proper business strategy is a must for any serious property investment plan. We can help you find the right partners for your property needs. A quick hit list of mountain bike trails to look up include Boreas Pass Road, the Peaks Trail and the Flume Trails. Send us a message with any question about biking in the area. We love riding bikes when we can. The video above shows a familiar scene in April, and that’s snow. Wet and heavier snows fall, but it’s warmer. So it’s melting off faster when the sun comes out. And when the sun comes out, it can feel hot. Well, I think so, at least. And below is a link to an article about why DIA is good to travel to and from. It’s also what helps bring so many families to Breck and Summit. Families visit the Colorado Rocky Mountains with dreams of powder days, dog sled tours and snowshoeing in a snowy forest. And, then in the summer, they want to hike, bike, and fish. But, now we offer so much more and everyone seems to be pretty healthy out here. Everybody is out doing their own thing, and that’s the beauty of it. There’s enough space and opportunity to find quiet nooks and crannies over the years spent up here. It’s great to have so many choices. A major plus is having a stellar Search and Rescue Group, Emergency Personnel and Community Resources when it comes to accident response. Ongoing care with specialists might require a visit to the front range or west to the Vail Valley, but it’s only an hour drive or so. Emotional reasons are easy to bring out, but when it comes down to it, the bills need to get paid. So, click on the article below to read about how Breck is on record pace for STR growth with increasing profits for owners. Ask us about this hot market and how to take advantage of our popular resort area to make the most of your investment. If you’ve made it down the blog this far, you deserve a reward. Thank you for reading, and to share a favorite of ours, head over to downtown Frisco and go to Bread + Salt and have a late breakfast or brunch. It’s so yummy, and in the summer you can sit outside near Main Street with views of Peak 1 and Mt. Royal. Get Answers to Your Questions The area of Summit County is very diverse and the different mountain towns each have their own feel. Some properties for sale are downtown and close to all the action, but if remote and quiet is more your style, we can customize a search just for you. There are many neighborhoods near the Town of Breckenridge, so let’s talk soon and we can find your dream home or property. Sometimes you just want to build and get everything you want. It’s absolutely possible. Contact us to learn more. No pressure, we’re here to help you dream and wonder, and to ask yourself, what if you did buy that home in the mountains? What would your life be like then? CONTACT US Notice: JavaScript is required for this content.
Breckenridge, Colorado MLS Access Posted on August 26, 2017 - 7:52 pm by Stacy Sanchez Breckenridge, Colorado MLS Access If you’re reading this blog, that means you’re interested in our free Breckenridge, Colorado MLS Access. That’s right, and we also provide a way for you to create a saved search, that you can come back to, that matches your desired criterion. Because finding a home in Breckenridge is not a one time web search. Perhaps you’ve discovered a few homes on Zillow, or Redfin, but those sites are not current, and may waste your time. I won’t do that. I want to help you find your dream home in the Rocky Mountains. We’ve built this custom website for our clients that want to learn more about the values of owning property in the mountains. Simply put, we are in a hot market, and continually sought out destination for Colorado locals and out of state owners. We are close enough to the Front Range cities of Denver, Fort Collins, Boulder and Colorado Springs that many chose to own, rent out certain weekends, and have the best of both worlds. Start by creating an account and then a Custom Home Search that has everything you need, and nothing you don’t. Search for Summit County Real Estate – Breckenridge, Colorado MLS Access We like to start out with an initial phone call to determine basic needs. Then, I can perfect your search using my contacts, who sometimes have pocket listings (listings that don’t make the MLS feed) and will go to work for you. I am very interested in creating meaningful relationships with clients that are serious about investments in Rocky Mountain Real Estate. It’s a great time to buy a home in Breck, click here to read more about our market. The second quarter analysis just came out and we’re working on a blog with some thoughts about that report. This report contains data from the different Colorado resort towns, including Telluride, Steamboat, and Aspen. Vail and Beaver Creek are usually grouped together while the towns of Summit County include Breckenridge, Copper Mountain, Dillon, Frisco, Keystone and Silverthorne. They are all situated around Dillon Reservoir, a collection of water fed by three inlets: the Blue River, the Snake River and Ten Mile Creek. Land Title has compiled a 2nd quarter analysis of real estate in the mountain resort communities of Aspen (Pitkin County), Breckenridge (Summit County), Steamboat Springs (Routt County), Glenwood Springs (Garfield County), Winter Park (Grand County), and Vail (Eagle County) and Telluride (San Miguel County). 2017 Second Quarter Highlights from the Seven Counties: • Buyer Profile: 49.64% Local, 23.24% Front Range, 26.60% Out-Of-State, 0.50% International. • All counties saw an increase in the number of transactions compared to last year’s numbers. Pitkin had the biggest increase with 55.42%. • Average residential price increased for all counties. Top county was San Miguel with a 39.88% increase over 2016 Q2 numbers. • In gross volume sales, Pitkin county saw the biggest increase at 59.44% Get Answers to Your Questions The Summit County area is very diverse and the different mountain towns each have their own feel. Some units are downtown and close to all the action, but if remote and quiet is more your style, we can customize a search just for you. There are many neighborhoods near Breckenridge, so let’s talk soon and I can tell you about some of my favorite ones, and which might work best for what you’re looking for! CONTACT US Notice: JavaScript is required for this content.
3 Tips to Prepare for a Colorado Wildfire Posted on August 13, 2017 - 7:11 pm by Stacy Sanchez 3 Tips to Prepare for a Colorado Wildfire The title of this blog is “3 Tips to Prepare for a Colorado Wildfire” and helps prepare you with items to consider pertaining to your home, property and a Colorado wildfire. We recently had a fire in the Peak 2 area, and it took several days and the efforts of many to safely extinguish the fire and remove the danger. Neighborhoods were evacuated and it was a true emergency until the winds shifted, allowing the firefighters to make ground on containing the fire. Click here to read more on a previous post about the fire and the local and statewide resources involved. Please contact us to learn more about this event, or to learn more about how you can protect your home from a future Colorado wildfire. 3 Tips to Prepare for a Colorado Wildfire Watch this video on YouTube The Short List If you were unable to play the video, I’ll go ahead and give you the list in text form here. Sometimes embedded videos from Youtube can be funny on mobile devices and tablets. So, here it is: Make a Defensible Space – Clear the area around your home and help firefighters protect your property Sign up for Emergency Notifications – Receive real-time alerts and texts with up-to-the-minute information Create an Evacuation Checklist – Store essentials in a fire-proof safe, and have your escape plan in order Get Answers to Your Questions CONTACT US Notice: JavaScript is required for this content.
Wildfire Protection Plan for your Colorado Mountain Home Posted on July 12, 2017 - 9:50 pm by Stacy Sanchez 1 Wildfire Protection Plan for your Colorado Mountain Home This blog is titled Wildfire Protection Plan for your Colorado Mountain Home, and will discuss the action steps needed to create a safe space around your home, pet considerations, drones and evacuation planning. This is front and center with the latest wildfire that started on July 5. So, I thought it was a timely post that will have information that will be invaluable to first time home buyers and longtime Breckenridge locals. A good defense is your best offense when it comes to wildfires and planning ahead. Preventative measures can be taken to make sure your home is as safe as it can be, your essential information is stored safely and also accessible when needed, and that you have a plan for your home, your pets and your family. Create a Defensible Space The first page that you should look at is on the Summit County government website that discusses Summit County Forest Health and Wildfire Mitigation issues and provides many links and resources. At the top of the list of resources is a page for details about creating a Defensible Space around your home and property. The bottom line is to remove and minimize natural fuels for wildfires from around your home and detached structures. I’ve included a wonderful infographic with the basics below. Be sure to check out the chipping program that helps ongoing annual efforts: “If you clear woody vegetation from around your home and stack it in a slash pile, we’ll chip it and haul it away for free..” Anything you can do to help firefighters save your home is going to be well worth the time and efforts. After all, this is your investment, and that’s why we’re writing this article. To help you save your home. Get Emergency Notifications I signed up for the emergency notifications and get traffic updates and now, communication regarding wildfires. It was great to get notified about the evacuation notices being lifted, and even became aware of another wildfire that had to be put out on Mt. Baldy. That one was especially troubling, as I had considered it as an alternate route, should Breck be put on full evacuation. We were packed and ready to go, and that would have meant roads would have been at a standstill. Boreas Pass goes up and over to Como, connecting to Highway 285. But, they actually closed the road for a bit while they got the fire under control. Sign up and get notified about relevant emergencies that will affect you, your home and your family. Make sure you have an external power source to charge phones as you move. Prepare for not being able to plug in for 12-24 hours. I’m looking into a hand crank that can continue to generate energy, versus a power bank that will eventually run out of juice. Having both would be ideal. Pet Considerations Our pets are our family, and that means you need to make a plan for them too. I wasn’t able to embed the post and video like the others on this post, so click here to watch a good preparedness video regarding pets and evacuating them. Bottom line is to get a grab bag together for them, and practice loading them into trailers, cars and travel crates. Make sure you have someone who knows about your pet, how to access your home in an emergency and where to go and what to do next, if you are unable to return to your home quickly. Your pet will be stressed, but you don’t have to be. You can rest assured that you have a plan and that your pet has a greater chance of survival when it counts. Flying Drones Over Wildfires is Illegal We are all gawkers when it comes to accidents, so it’s no surprise that people want to pull over, watch the fire, and take pictures. Some of us even have drones now, and those that flew them near the fire hindered the airborne support as ground crews wouldn’t give the green light to the helicopters and planes until all potential hazards were removed from the airspace. Please spread the word and get drone operators used to the fact that their hovering cameras are not allowed during emergencies and could cost lives and money if used inappropriately. Evacuation Checklist I will admit that I didn’t have this entire checklist ticked off when the #peak2fire was underway. I did have a fireproof safe with essentials should I have not been home to respond and pack. We are used to traveling, so had backpacks and clothes ready, and when pressed to think about, there wasn’t much we couldn’t leave behind. We had family memorabilia in containers and it would have been easy for us to gather items like computers, personal documents and nostalgia and hit the road. We were actually deciding whether to take bikes and stuff. I saw posts from friends loading their prized fishing rods and other stuff that has sentimental value. Now, think about if you were to get that emergency text in the middle of the night. It’s 3 AM and you have 20 minutes. What would you take? What would you leave behind? Is your pet bag ready? I’ve included a link to a comprehensive checklist, so CLICK HERE to see the full list. When You Return Going home is all I would think about should we be evacuated from our house. But, I have learned that there would be a few things you would need to do once you are given the go ahead to return. Please think about the following when allowed back to your property. Food safety – Check the food in the fridge. You may have to throw away some items if you’re unsure if they’re any good. Don’t risk it and just toss it. A neat trick for knowing if your freezer shut off is to place a coin on a cup. Click here to learn about that trick. Most jarred items will still be safe, and even canned goods should be ok. That is, unless they were exposed to high heat from a fire. Private wells – Have them professionally checked out before using again. Wildlife – Please do not leave pet food or water outside. Report any distressed or hurt wildlife to the authorities. Garbage – Please pick up trash and safely contain with lids and other sealed containers to discourage wildlife from getting into it. Septic Systems – Flame retardants and other chemicals may have been used, so we recommend a professional check for any damages. Odors – Central heating systems may need air filters changed and to be checked by a professional HVAC person. Place odor absorbers and dishes of vanilla, vinegar and activated charcoal to help. Air Quality – Pay attention to the newscasts and notifications as personnel will give proper respiratory warnings. This is important for those that are sensitive and susceptible to breathing difficulties. Power – Electricity may or may not available, so make sure you have a way to cook food. You may need to transport your own water until your water source is clear and flowing too. While this post is a good list of resources, there are many more out there, and is just the start of your wildfire preparedness. It sure was scary to see all the smoke and everyone started thinking really hard about what to do next. Luckily, we have a great community full of professionals, and with the help of social media, locals were connected and sharing photos, links to official pages and communicators and we all had the best and most recent information we could get. This was a wake up call for all of us. We live in a beautiful forest mountain environment and forest fires are to be expected. It’s not a matter of if they will happen again, but when they will happen again. Next time, I hope we’re all a little bit more prepared. Please contact us with any questions about information presented in this article. Please share! Get Answers to Your Questions CONTACT US Notice: JavaScript is required for this content.