The Complete Guide to Buying a Vail Valley Condo (2026 Edition)

If you’ve been circling Vail this winter, here’s the short version of what matters most right now.

Financing first. As of last Thursday, the 30-year fixed averaged 6.06%. That’s the lowest in 3+ years and it’s nudging more buyers off the sidelines, so lock when the payment fits and ask your lender to model a 2-1 buydown versus points.

HOA health. In resort condos, dues aren’t “high” or “low”—they’re earned. Read the budget, reserve study, insurance line items, and recent board minutes before you fall in love with the view. Rising insurance costs are a real pressure point across Colorado associations; healthy reserves and clear loss histories matter.

Rental rules. Short-term rentals are permitted but regulated. Confirm licensing, tax registration, fire inspections, and caps by town and building. Don’t underwrite on nightly rates until compliance is verified.

Seasonality. Showings spike through spring break, but many well-priced condos transact April–July when sellers can accommodate access and buyers can inspect roofs, decks, and drainage without snow. Price strategy and timeline should reflect that rhythm.

Inspection traps at altitude. Plan for sewer scope, radon, roof/snow retention, boiler and humidification, plus ice-dam and deck evaluations. Negotiate credits where systems are aging instead of chasing headline price cuts.

Local reality check. Vail condo inventory remains thin and pricey; median list sits around the mid-$1M range with longer days on market than the Front Range—translation: patient, qualified buyers still have leverage on 30–70 day listings.

If you want a second set of eyes on HOA docs or a payment scenario that actually fits your plans, I’m here.

—Andy | Vail Peak Realty