BLOG NOTE: This blog post is from a previous season. To view our most recent blog posts, click here.
Seeking exclusive, high-end luxury estates with views of Aspen Mountain, Maroon Bells, Independence Pass, Mt. Sopris and all four local ski areas? The Red Mountain neighborhood fits the bill, offering some of the most sought-after real estate in Aspen and Pitkin County, and the entire world. If you're looking for fabulous homes of all sizes and styles on larger lots, minutes from downtown Aspen and skiing, then look no further than Red Mountain. Red Mountain offers a unique blend of real estate options for potential buyers ranging from families to second-home owners.
So, why is Red Mountain right for you? This week our blog team takes a closer look at this prestigious area with the assistance of Frias broker Andrew Myatt, who can better explain the allure of this popular residential neighborhood.
Q: What's the initial allure of the Red Mountain neighborhood? Why do people like it?
A: "Aspen’s Red Mountain neighborhood is one of the most exclusive areas in town. With dominating views of town, Castle Creek, Maroon Creek and the Maroon Bells, it is hard to find better view in Aspen with a close proximity town. Many of Aspen’s iconic town pictures have been shot from Red Mountain. Red Mountain is also only a short drive to town. Depending on how high up Red Mountain the property is that you are looking at anywhere from a three-minute drive to 10 minutes. There are a lot of hiking trails just outside your door and the Hunter Creek trail system offers some of the best mountain biking in the country.”
Q: If you were to describe Red Mountain to a friend who has never been to Aspen, how would you describe it?
A: “It’s like the 90210 ZIP Code of Aspen: It is very exclusive and some of the most expensive real estate in the country.”
Q: Is Red Mountain considered a big neighborhood?
A: “Yes. Red Mountain is consider a big neighborhood, but there are many different streets and smaller neighborhoods that make up what's known as 'Red Mountain.' Willoughby Way is a little lower on Red Mountain and The Ranch at Red Mountain is at the top, and there are few other sub-neighborhoods in between."
Q: Are the homes on Red Mountain original, mostly remodeled or overall new builds?
A: "The houses are a mix of original homes with 1970s charm to expansive new homes that have been built in recent years. The Ranch at Red Mountain, which is at the top, has homes ranging from 20 year ago to newer construction. Most of the older homes are being bought and torn down for new buyers to build their dream estate in the mountains."
Q: Are there a lot of full-time, live-in residents on Red Mountain or is it mostly second-home owners?
A: "For the most part, they are second-home owners."
Q: From an investment standpoint, why should I buy property on Red Mountain?
A: "With list prices ranging from $6 million to $25 million, the homes on Red Mountain have been a very solid investment over the past 25 years. Yes, it is a high price to get into the market, but the prices continue to climb. The properties on Red Mountain seem to be a more insulated then the rest of the Aspen market ... and it was the quickest area in town to recover from the recession in 2008 and continues to perform well."
Q: Is there solid rental potential if I buy in this neighborhood?
A: "Yes. Red Mountain is a highly sought-after rental area with renters wanting great views and a little more privacy then a condo in has to offer."
Q: Is a home on Red Mountain a good place to raise a family?
A: "The Aspen public schools continue to be among the best public schools in the state of Colorado, and the country. There are a lot of community programs for children and teens, and I couldn't think of a better place to raise a family."
Q: Is the Red Mountain area pet friendly?
A: "Yes. There are a lot of trails to take your dogs for walks and a few meadows and community spaces to let them run."
Wow! All that, plus recreational opportunities like skiing, mountain biking, hiking, fishing, golfing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, hunting rafting, kayaking and camping all within close proximity explain why the Red Mountain neighborhood is a top choice for potential buyers.