Mountain houses: what is it like to live in the mountains?
When people think about living in Colorado, they likely think of a home in the mountains or foothills. The “Rocky Mountain High “ image that has been around for generations, is no doubt appealing to those considering a move to our mountainous state. When my husband and I first came here, we had that idea too, and our REALTOR at the time understood the appeal. Her first home in Colorado had been in Aspen, a town high in the mountains known for the trees of the same name, but she had eventually moved to the Front Range, where most of Colorado’s population resides. She told us that nearly every person she met who was moving into the state had the same idea at first, a mountain house or mountain cabin. It can work for some, but it’s a good idea to make sure you have the full picture of what life in the mountains looks like.
For us, we happily moved into a house on a paved and plowed road with our three-year-old. The plains view from our living room was impressive, and the rustic setting meant no yard work. We installed a swing set on the only level ground, over the septic leach field. Eventually, we came to know the ins and outs of our new life. Prickly Pear cactus were a hazard for visiting children. Dry thunderstorms were frequent, with intense lightning and no rain. When our daughter (now four) wanted to swing we had to see if the five-point buck and his dozen does were gathered around the swing set. However, it was peaceful and beautiful. Eventually, we tired of the extremely hard water, the long commute and bear sightings.
While a mountain home may not be a great fit for every family with young children, everyone’s life is different. It may be your dream to have your young children immersed in the rugged beauty of that setting. Often couples with no children, or those with children who are almost grown enjoy it most. Career professionals who have the option to work from home may like the remote nature of living in the mountains. They may find spending a few minutes outside, surrounded by nature, to be an ideal break from work that takes place in front of a screen. Everyone is entitled to the dream, and I can help you find just the place. There are certainly some hidden gems in communities in the hills of Northern Colorado.
We regularly have groups of elk visit us in Loveland, CO.
If being close to the natural elements of the mountains is something that appeals to you, but your budget or career keep you in metro areas, you may be happy to know that nature can be found there, too. Many people are surprised to find that Loveland has herds of elk. In my limited hiking experience, I have learned a few things about Colorado wildlife. For example, When the irrigation ditches are drained in the Fall, they become trails for wildlife. Walking along the ditches, I have often seen tracks of elk, deer, coyote, fox, skunk and raccoons. I have seen cougar and bear tracks, too.
When you are choosing a home in Colorado, the most important thing to do with your REALTOR is to find out what you really like. You may like to be in the hills with views of the plains, or maybe back range views of Colorado’s majestic Fourteeners. On the other hand, you may prefer life on the plains with views of the hills and the Great Divide. It is time well spent when you investigate the different areas and the atmosphere of each place.
It is extremely important to have a REALTOR with extensive knowledge of the area. They will ask you key questions, and take you to properties in different areas to help you narrow the search and make the best use of your time. Having lived in Colorado for more than two decades, I have extensive familiarity with these areas, and can help you find the best match for your lifestyle. If this appeals to you, let’s get in touch!
Everything here is presented as friendly advice. Nothing here is to be considered legal advice.