Ascent Sotheby's International Realty_Vail Valley Luxury Rentals MILESTONES MAGAZINE_Summer/Fall 2015 | Page 32

MAKE IT COMFORTABLE, AND CONVENIENT
In Europe, buyers typically seek homes in the resor ts with
which they’re most familiar—where they learned to ski when
young, for instance, or where there’s a strong traditional
expatriate contingent if the town is in another country.
For American buyers heading into the spacious West,
convenience and accessibility is another major factor.
Selecting a market that features a nearby airpor t served
by major airlines will make getting there less of a chore
and thus more usable year round.
KEEP IT SIMPLE
The home can be large, intimate, modern or rustic, but what
buyers look for most frequently is a turnkey proper ty.
Having to finish, furnish or remodel adds unnecessar y
layers of expense and effor t, and since these are usually
second, third or four th homes, having a residence that is
move-in ready is a real luxury.
FLEXIBLE SPACES
Look for ski homes with living spaces configured for all
seasons. High ceilings, open kitchens and great rooms
promote togetherness in winter, while large patios and
balconies, exterior fireplaces or fire pits, and landscaped
gardens can be ideal for enter taining while helping to
maximize the outdoor summer experience.
Large windows, sliding doors and even entire glass wall
systems that open are other features that can highlight
the mountain views and reduce the barrier between
home and nature.
EXPLORE THE SEASONS
Whereas winters are generally driven by a singular purpose
—chasing snow—summer is more laid back and diverse.
Long days and moderate climates are perfect for golf,
hiking, fly fishing, mountain biking, kids’ day camps, farmers’
markets and jeep tours.
“Summer used to be an after thought,” says Stockton,
“but the smar t resor ts are realizing they can capitalize on
summer activities and are creating more entertainment options.”
Hagmann agrees: “Basically each resor t showcases other
spor ts and cultural activities to make sure they remain
attractive throughout the year.”

TOP 54 Beaver Dam Road︱Vail Village, Colorado︱SOLD︱$11M
BOTTOM 332 Mill Creek Circle︱Vail Village, Colorado
$18,500,000 • Proper ty ID: GE374K

Many locations sponsor national and international events,
including the Verbier Festival of classical music and the
Omega European Masters golf tournament in Crans-Montana
(both in Switzerland) or the Aspen Music Festival. The events
and attendees it attracts is often a reflection of the
resor t’s personality.

AscentSIR.com

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A Ski Home For All Seasons