Mountain Real Estate Appraisal
Full of stunning views, crisp clean air, and thick old growth forests instead of people, Fremont County is one of the least densely populated counties in Colorado.
Fremont County ranks around 35th of out of 64 total counties in terms of population per square mile. Of its 981,800 total acres, approximately 54% are public lands such as BLM (Bureau of Land Management), National Forest, and State of Colorado Land. Of the remaining privately owned 46%, the vast majority consists of large tracts of vacant land in the rural northern, southern, and western sections of the county.
The largest single land owner in Fremont County is the Borrego Family, who own a 637 acre working ranch in the north central section of the county along State Highway 9. This multi-generational ranch, now permanently protected under a Conservation Easement, is an enduring reminder of what Fremont County and much of the west was like before rampant land development and speculation took over.
The balance between development and preservation is one that is easily tipped, depending on ones perspective and agency in the process. For a struggling family with nothing but land to bargain with, a developer may appear as a savior. On the other hand, to one who has had the fortune to live in and enjoy a pristine mountain environment, the sound of bulldozers can sound like the end. In terms of mountain real estate values, rarity and environmental stewardship will always demand a premium. Conversely, residential properties in close proximity to influences such as industrial mining operations, high density residential development, or even busy roads, typically suffer.
Appraising mountain property requires a certain skill set and experience. Many urban and even suburban based appraisers can miss certain nuances that are vital for an accurate valuation. Access to public lands, land use regulations and restrictions, covenants, the presence of live water, development potential, views and elevation, road maintenance agreements, and even the shape and orientation of a site, can pose major value related issues and need to be carefully considered.
Sound Appraisal Services, Inc. has specialized in appraising mountain real estate in Fremont County since 1999 and takes the time to carefully evaluate the issues, both obvious and nuanced, that each unique mountain presents. We have worked in every single area of the county and have performed assignments on the most basic seasonal cabins to some of the most elegant and well built custom homes in the area.
Whether you’re considering purchasing vacant land, or planning to build your mountain dream home, feel free to reach out with any questions you may have! We’d love to help you make a great decision and avoid potential pitfalls.
