An Established Resort can afford the high up-front costs, property in a popular area like Telluride or Snowbird is sure to appreciate. Land in internationally-known resorts is limited, so if you find real estate to purchase at a fair price, you will benefit from first-class amenities, a sure rental market, and a good return on your investment.
The Next Best Place. As high-end resorts price themselves out of the general market, developers look to smaller areas with big potential. A growing nearby urban market, good transportation, and developable real estate are all harbingers of a hot mountain resort. Finding a small mountain community with these attributes now, before development starts, is the most affordable way to enjoy your investment and watch it grow.
On the Fringes. By buying property at a distance --twenty to thirty miles-- from a resort, you can own more home for your money. Many small communities outside resort areas are affordable, relaxed, and fun. Owning a comfortable family home, and enjoying the mountain whenever you want, may create the lifestyle you want at a fraction of the price.
World-Wide Mountain Resorts. The strong U.S. dollar means that Americans buying in other countries can stretch their purchasing power. By finding ski mountains where locals are the primary buyers, Americans can save as much as 30% over comparable U.S. properties. Beware, however, of real estate tax laws when you sell; the advantage is that such taxes are generally deductible on your U.S. tax return.
Year-Round Resorts. If affordable ski property means that your home or condo must generate income to help pay for itself, then a year-round area may be the ticket. By offering summer (golf, horseback riding, sailing, whitewater rafting, mountain biking, climbing) activities, a resort can help rent out your property at a premium, summer and winter.
For further reading, & tips on buying property in Ski country, visit the following websites:
High Country News
Outside Magazine
Ski Magazine
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