Affordable vacation homes can be found outside of the famous Colorado resorts of Breckenridge and Keystone CO real estate. Land and second homes in Summit County and Park County can be purchased for a fraction of the going rates for ski-in/ski-out real estate in Breckenridge or Keystone.
Many rural communities easily access the slopes at Keystone, Arapahoe Basin, and Copper Mountain and come with lower price tags. The authentic Town of Breckenridge real estate, however, continues to be a popular place to belong. The former mining town, although less expensive than Vail, Beaver Creek, and Aspen, retains its charming traditional feel and friendly community. As one of the highest resorts in the world, buyers are enticed to the overall experience of living around Breckenridge.
Secluded mountain real estate near the resorts may better fit the needs of second homeowners. It is still possible to land a studio one and two bedroom condo for $200,000 –$300,000 not too far away from the ski slope scene in Keystone, Breckenridge or Copper Mountain. The two-or three-bedroom cabin is still available for $200,000 – $300,000 range in Fairplay, South Park area, which is right over Hoosier Pass, a 20 – 30 minute drive to the Breckenridge ski slopes.  Luxury real estate beginning in the mid $300’s for the smaller ski in ski out condo’s. Remember cash flow is everything. The closer to the slopes (more rental income in your pocket to help pay for the investment). So it’s important to average out the cost to income approach for investment purposes. The other thing to keep in mind is the QUARTER SHARE approach. We really have some nice opportunities throughout Summit County.
According to a European source article, the same is true in France and Italy. In Chamonix, France, more than 435 miles of snow-packed, high-altitude ski runs make the town sought after, causing property prices to soar. Vallorcine, a little-known village about ten miles away, offers a better buy. But, alas, the local council recently installed a lift linking the pretty village to the expansive pistes of the Mont Blanc and invited exclusive residential projects that are sure to elevate the prices.
Close to Cervinia, Italy at the foot of the Matterhorn, the quaint village and resort of Valtournenche is considered much nicer than the bigger Cervinia. With a bit of help, buyers can find small-scale new and renovation projects at lower prices. About 20 minutes from Cervinia, the lovely town of Aosta features cable-car access to a small ski area at Pila which offers 40 miles of ski trails. Nice condos can be found at good price points in the comfortable town with nice shops and European culture.
Jonna Beardsley of Breckenridge Associates is a long-time resident in Breck. She offers a wealth of information and affordable local options. Call Jonna at (970) 453-2200 for friendly, professional real-estate assistance in the Rocky Mountain area.