Idaho Springs, Colorado, is a charming town situated just 30 miles west of Denver. Established in the midst of the Colorado Gold Rush in the mid-19th century, the town has successfully maintained its historical charm while adapting to modern times. Currently, Idaho Springs is a peaceful haven for about 2,000 residents who enjoy a serene lifestyle surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of nature.

Idaho Springs, Colorado: A Prime Location for Land Purchase

Situated in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Idaho Springs, Colorado, is a mountain town near Denver known for its unique blend of historical charm, adventurous spirit, and serene ambiance. The increasing interest in the real estate market for "Land for sale in Idaho Springs" is a testament to the town's appeal.

Insight into Idaho Springs

Located a mere 30 miles west of Denver, Idaho Springs, Colorado, is a quaint town where history and modernity harmoniously intertwine. Founded during the mid-19th century Colorado Gold Rush, the town has successfully preserved much of its historical allure. Today, it serves as a peaceful home to approximately 2,000 residents, surrounded by the awe-inspiring beauty of nature.

Reasons to Invest in Idaho Springs Land

Several factors make Idaho Springs an attractive option for land purchase. Firstly, its location in the Rocky Mountains provides breathtaking views and easy access to a wide range of outdoor activities. Secondly, the robust real estate market in Idaho Springs offers a diverse range of options, from undeveloped land to established properties. Lastly, its close proximity to Denver makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a tranquil mountain lifestyle without sacrificing access to urban amenities.

If you're considering buying land in Idaho Springs, Colorado, there are several important factors to consider. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision.

1. Source of Water

Colorado is known for its rural terrain, and while the idea of moving to a secluded area may sound appealing, figuring out your source of water is an important factor to consider. When you purchase land in a Colorado community, you'll likely need to pay for a tap fee and the cost of installing pipes and meters. If water will be supplied by a well, you'll need to acquire a permit to drill. In Colorado, most well water permits only allow well water to be used indoors, so you'll need to purchase extra rights or find alternative water sources for outdoor usage.

In addition, you'll want to find out if the land has access to an existing sewer system or if a septic system needs to be installed. For lots with sewer system access, you'll simply need to pay a hookup fee. For septic systems, you'll need to have a perk test performed to determine how well water is absorbed by the land. If your land passes the perk test, you can have a septic system installed, but if it does not, you may need to search for a different area to build on.

2. Availability of Electricity

Electricity is an amenity most buyers take for granted, but when buying land in Colorado, it's important to find out if the lot you're purchasing has easy access to electricity. If the street is electric-ready, you'll need to pay a hook-up fee. If not, you'll have to pay to have electric run to your property, which can be costly.

3. Terrain Accessibility

Even if living in the middle of nowhere is your dream, it's important to determine how long it will take to travel to key places like shopping centers, jobs, schools, medical centers, and airports. Since the terrain in Colorado is so diverse, what appears to be a quick drive to a grocery store may take much longer than anticipated because of the rough terrain. It's best to take a test drive before committing to an area of land.

4. Zoning Laws

Even if you've figured out utilities and accessibility, the plans for your dream home need to follow zoning codes. Some areas have zoning laws in place that dictate how high fences can be, what types of pets are allowed, and whether or not outdoor storage sheds can be built. There can also be some rules around the type of structure you can build, so it's important to figure out the specific zoning laws for your land.

5. Tax Implications

While every home comes with taxes, in Colorado, vacant land comes with higher tax fees than already constructed residential property. The rate is currently at 28% but does drop down once your home is constructed. It's still important to understand the tax implications before committing to a piece of land.

Next Steps

Purchasing land in Idaho Springs, Colorado, can be the best way to construct the home of your dreams in your ideal location. However, when purchasing land, there are many considerations that will need to factor into your decision, ranging from utility access to travel time to zoning laws. Partnering with a local real estate agent can be beneficial as they can help answer any questions you might have about the buying process and offer advice on alternative lots or housing options.