In a banner year for luxury real estate in the United States, led by a record-breaking 16 sales above $50 million, it perhaps should come as no surprise that the investment-heavy mindset of 2014 extended to ski towns. Aspen-Snowmass reported more than $1.1 billion in total sales for the year, while an $8.1 million Deer Valley home went under contract before even reaching completion. Here are the country’s most expensive ski home sales of 2014:
1. Aspen: 865 Willoughby Way – $20 million
Location had much to do with the 8-figure price of this 6-bedroom home, which sits in one of Aspen’s most coveted neighborhoods. (Of the town’s 50 billionaires, more than a few hang their skis in Red Mountain.) Of course, this Willoughby Way home has plenty to offer beyond an Aspen zip code, including a heated swimming pool, outdoor fire-pit and floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing views of the slopes. Not-so-incidentally, Red Mountain also claims the $14.5 million 411 Willoughby Way, which sold in May.
2. Big Sky: Mountain Chateau – $20 million
This ski-in/ski-out Big Sky chalet had been one of North America’s highest-priced listings of the last few years. Its sale in October brightened the spotlight on an increasingly visible Montana, which has quietly lured low-profile wealthy residents like Michael Keaton. Although L&K Real Estate has not revealed the buyer or final selling price of this 6-bedroom estate, we can imagine that amenities like private slope access through Yellowstone Club, an in-home cinema, a “ski hut” and workout facility ensured a high 8-figure price.
3. Vail: Forest Way Estate – $19 million
The appeal of this newly constructed Vail Village home goes far beyond its ski-in/ski-out location, as evidenced by its end-of-season sale in April. Built for entertaining, the 7-bedroom home features a grotto-style hot tub and spa, heated patios and even maid’s quarters. Vail also laid claim to the fifth most expensive home sold this year, the $14.5 million estate at 100 Vail Road.
4. Aspen: 855 Bay Street – $19 million
You might not live next door to the Koch brothers at this 7-bedroom estate, but you can walk to downtown Aspen and easily accommodate a dozen of your closest friends. The 9,300 square-foot home overlooks a river and features a swimming pool for year-round enjoyment.
Luxury Ski Magazine 