Overview
Building a custom home in Summit County offers the opportunity to create your perfect mountain retreat. However, the process requires careful planning and mountain-specific expertise.
Finding Land
Considerations
- Views and orientation
- Access and road maintenance
- Utilities availability
- Soil conditions and slope
- HOA or subdivision restrictions
Building Season
Mountain construction has a limited season:
- Primary season: May - October
- Foundation work: frost-free months
- Interior work: year-round possible
- Plan 12-18 months minimum
Choosing a Builder
- Experience with mountain construction
- Local references
- Understanding of snow loads
- Licensed and insured
Permits and Regulations
- Building permit from county or town
- Well and septic permits if needed
- Environmental reviews
- Design review in some areas
Cost Considerations
- Construction costs 15-25% higher than Front Range
- Shipping costs for materials
- Shorter building season impacts timeline
- Specialized mountain requirements
Timeline
- Design and permitting: 3-6 months
- Construction: 8-14 months
- Total: 12-20 months typical