Ski Townhomes vs Beach Houses: What Buyers Prefer These Days?

Ski homes — (Photo : Image by Guyjass from Pixabay )

The coronavirus global pandemic may have prohibited the people from socializing with their usual circle, but it would not stop a person's craving for relaxation, adventure, and fun.

Because of the health crisis, instead of going to crowded vacation spots. People, especially families, opted to purchase private properties where they can hang out and enjoy without risking everybody's health.

When it comes to vacation houses, beach houses and ski townhomes are the top two properties of choice.

It is expected that many homebuyers would choose beach houses in a heartbeat, but recent data shows that homebuyers now prefer acquiring having a property where there is frequent cold weather.

Based on the report from realtor.com, potential ski townhomes buyers increased by 36% during the fourth quarter of 2020 alone. Most of the buyers came from households already residing in cold weather climate areas like the Nothern states.

(Photo : Image by marcelinobobe from Pixabay )

Why homebuyers suddenly prefer ski townhouses?

Realtor.com Chief Economist Danielle Hale said that many of these possible buyers are looking for a ski townhouse as an escape closer to home.

"Historically, residents of the Midwest and Northeast have shown a preference for warmer cities, and contributed to much of the out-of-state demand in homes in sunny states, such as Florida," Hale said.

"This year, we found that snowbirds' interest in ski towns increased more than interest from other areas across the country. It's not surprising. Americans are increasingly searching for getaways that are within driving distance. Skiing is done outdoors and generally at a distance from others, making it a relatively safe sport during the pandemic," she added.

Hale added that the hot spots for ski homes do not only offer snow recreation but other year-round activities, making it an interesting summer destination.

Residents from the so-called "snowbird" areas are where the demand in ski towns is coming from. Such sites include Boston, Chicago, Columbus in Ohio, Indianapolis, New York, Philadelphia, Providence, and Minneapolis.

Meanwhile, the top ten ski town with a growing number of interested buyers are the following:

Union Dale
Choteau, Mont.
North Creek, N.Y
Eden, Utah
Windham, N.Y.
Boone, Iowa
Otis, Mass.
Lakeside, Mont.
Paoli, Ind.
Boyne Falls, Mich.

(Photo : Image by PublicDomainPictures from Pixabay )

Things to consider when buying a ski property

House or condo?

There is a huge difference between a ski house and condo. One of the major differences would be maintenance. If you buy a ski home, you will be responsible for preserving your property, including snow removal and yard work.

While in a ski condo, you will be charged with association fees that will allow other people to do the snow shovelling, plowing, and even exterior painting.

Distance to the ski lift

Having a ski home that is only a few minutes walk to the ski lifts or trails increases your chance to rent out your place if you plan to make money out of it. The property will also sell faster if you decided to flip it in the future.

Storage Space

Do not forget to consider additional storage areas for your ski, bikes, and other recreational equipment.

Buying a ski house guarantees you space enough for your gears and apparatus, while condo units have different amenities to offer like private lockers and ski valets.