Breckenridge Real Estate Blog

Residents of Breckenridge CO homes are taking steps to insure that the pristine natural environment stays that way forever.  As the industrial revolution merges into the challenges of the new millennium, Breckenridge CO real estate is getting a “green” code.  In an effort to preserve the pristine environment, the new green Breckenridge building code more than encourages the designing and building of efficient and healthy real estate in Breckenridge. 

The new green code is just the beginning of a substantial effort to change the fact that 40 percent of the Summit County waste stream comes from construction and deconstruction.  This step echoes the new Summit County code and will result in Breckenridge real estate with greater efficiency and lower energy usage.  Our vacation paradise of homes around the Breckenridge Ski Resort and surrounding national forests will not go the way of many municipalities that are beset with grand issues like reducing smog and cleaning out airways and waterways that have already reached dangerously toxic levels.

Some homeowners in Breckenridge have already been using long-life light bulbs and energy saving appliances or recycling, but beginning in the New Year of 2009, a sustainability code impacting new construction.  Single-family homes, multi-family homes, additions, remodels, and the residential areas of mixed-use developments will be affected at that time.  All homeowners will be required to install energy efficient replacement windows during remodels.

Builders must earn a score of zero or better to be in compliance.  Chief building official Glen Morgan, as quoted in the Breckenridge Associates’ e-newsletter, says, “The bigger the house gets, the more green initiatives will be needed.”  Stricter guidelines are in place for homes greater than 3,000 square feet.  The complicated code outlines a series of criteria that will determine how large a home can be and how many amenities are acceptable.  If a home uses more energy, it will be required to offset that usage.   For example, solar panels could be installed to offset the energy required to heat a driveway and outdoor hot tubs. 

The fabulous Rocky Mountains, rivers, and national forests must be guarded for prosperity as a retreat and refuge tucked in the folds of Mother Nature for retirees, skiers, family vacation homes and for those of us to appreciate our pristine wonderland.  Call Jonna Beardsley of Breckenridge Associates at (970) 453-2200 or (800) 774-7970 for friendly and professional real-estate assistance in the resort areas.