HI Sheryl,
Did you find a property that suited your needs? The last response here was in August. Are you looking for anything before the snow flies? The market is so crazy right now that analyzing the right price is like shooting a moving target. In the 7 years I've been here in Steamboat doing this full time, 6 days a week, I look for the same type of investment properties that you are looking for. Let me know if I can be of any help.
all the best,
Joy Rasmussen
Broker/Owner, Colorado Group Realty

Hi Sheryl. The least expensive single family home in Steamboat is a one bedroom 500+sqft home on a quarter acre for $ 269,000 or so. This probably wouldn't work for family vacations unless your family is super small! Although you could build a larger home with an attached caretaker unit in the future...

Modest three-bedroom homes in Steamboat start in the upper $400,000s for the most part, but there are nice condominiums near the ski mountain available for less - starting in the mid $200,000s for three bedrooms, and up. If your budget seeks something for less, there's a lot of value to be had by driving 30 minutes out of Steamboat to several neighboring communities.

Regarding renting it out for short term, if you are talking nightly rental you will want a property near the ski area, and there are alot of condos available with management companies already in place. These can be earning income for you while you're away, and be available for your family's use as needed. Some have great amenities (pool, hot tub, tennis courts, shuttle service, etc.) while others are more modest.

If you'd like any more help let me know. I am an Exclusive Buyer Agent in Steamboat so I have no vested interest in selling you any particular property - rather my fiduciary duty is to finding my clients the best property for them, at the best price and terms, and at no direct cost to you. My cell number is 970-846-3728, or email me at Susana@SteamboatGals.com. Best of luck to you in your search.

Sheryl,

First off, finding a small home that you can rent out "short-term" is a little harder that one might expect. Because of zoning regulations, many neighborhoods in Steamboat restrict rentals to only long-term. So if short-term rental income is what you’re looking for, and to enjoy it when you’re here, then you might be better off with a townhome or condo near the ski area. This would also solve your maintenance issues for these types of properties manage the grounds. And if you went this route there are many options to choose from: price, age, condition, size, etc. email me if you’d like more information. - Charlie

I am very familiar with Steamboat and can email you a list of specific areas that come to mind. I can send you ALL of the properties that are currently for sale and match your criteria in one email for you to look through and decide which ones are worth looking at and what areas you prefer. If this sounds like an option for you, email me with your email address and contact info as well as your price range. I have no doubt that I can help you find the perfect option that would work as rental and a great place for a vacation home for your family.

I hope to hear form you soon!
Kendra Lanterman
broker/owner
(720) 434-6432
KLanterman7905@yahoo.com