Windshield Time
Appraisers have traditionally spent plenty of time on the road, especially in Colorado where a single county can have the total land area of a small eastern state. In actuality, Fremont County in Southern Colorado has more land mass than the state of Rhode Island, with rugged mountains in the west, open plains in the east, and the Gold Medal Arkansas River running right through it all.
Fremont County is the primary coverage area of Sound Appraisal Services, Inc. As one might imagine for such a large county, there are multiple and wildly different marketing areas. The county seat is Canon City, with multiple market segments. From small victorian-era bungalows, to agricultural type properties on larger acreages, to custom residences in the foothills, Canon City offers something for everyone.
The eastern and western sections of the county couldn’t be more different. Penrose, a large, open, unincorporated town appealing to equestrians, ranchers, and folks wanting room to spread out, is on the eastern boundary. Clinging to the banks of the Arkansas River on the far western boundary, is the small river town of Swissvale, an idyllic rural enclave of less than 200 full time residents. The northern and southern sections are generally characterized by mountain property at higher elevations, national forests, and enormous tracts of pristine natural habitat for our abundant wildlife. But the crown jewel is the Royal Gorge, through which Class V rapids rage during spring run-off, 1000 feet under one of the highest suspensions bridges in the world.
Over the years, I’ve come to truly appreciate the variety within Fremont County, both in terms of the types of real estate as well as the types of people I’ve been able to meet and help with their appraisal and real estate consultation needs. I’ve visited amazing homes, met amazing people, and feel honored by the experience. From mountain chalets to urban condos, from ranchers with generational roots to young families moving to the area for a new life, it’s been and continues to be an adventure.
Changing times and new technologies may see future appraisers less mobile, more chained to their desks, and less connected to their coverage areas and the people they serve. For now, I’m happy to be on the road, engaging my community and going where the work takes me!
