Winter Inspection Checklist at Altitude (Denver/Vail)
Cold snaps + sun + elevation = different wear patterns on our homes. If you’re buying—or just being a smart owner—here’s where winter finds the weak spots:
Roofs (Class-4): Ask if the roof is Class-4 impact-resistant and check hail history/age. Verify attic ventilation to prevent heat pockets that lead to leaks.
Ice dams: Look for thick icicles at eaves, water stains on top-floor ceilings, and uneven roof melt. Insulation + balanced intake/exhaust vents beat heat cables alone.
Humidifiers: In arid winter air, whole-home units help comfort—but over-humidifying causes window condensation and attic mold. Target ~30–35% RH when it’s below freezing.
Radon: January is Radon Action Month—test every level. Mitigation is straightforward; use it as an inspection and negotiation item.
Sewer scopes: Denver’s older clay laterals + mature trees + freeze-thaw = offsets and root intrusion. Scope every time; clean/repair quotes can swing a deal by thousands.
Market pulse (as of Jan 22, 2026): 30-yr fixed averaged 6.09% per Freddie Mac. Denver city medians are hovering near ~$558K with ~2 months to sell on average; Zillow’s typical value reads ~$525K and contracts often go pending in ~50 days. Translation: leverage lives in due diligence—credits for roofs/sewer/HVAC/radon can matter more than headline price.
If you want a second set of eyes before you write an offer, I’m here.
—Andy | Vail Peak Realty
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