Jackson Hole, Wyoming, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park right in its backyard, not to mention the protected wilderness, visitors head to this town known as "the last of the wild west" for everything from hiking and skiing to arts and culture. Enjoy first-rate skiing and snowboarding experiences at one of Jackson Hole's three ski areas: Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Grand Targhee Resort, and Snow King Mountain Resort.
Afterward, you can embark on several scenic tours in search of picture-perfect landscapes and natural wildlife, then head into town for exceptional
fine dining choices, unmatched luxury shopping selections, and an unparalleled arts and culture scene. The National Museum Of Wildlife Art showcases works from famed artists Georgia O'Keefe and Andy Warhol. In addition, you can visit the town square to see magnificent arches created from antlers shed by the elk in the nearby National Elk Refuge.
They say it only takes one visit to fall in love with the charming town, so if you're considering a move to the state of Wyoming, read on for five expert tips on buying a home in Jackson Hole.
1. Research the town to determine if it’s the right fit
Only 3% of the land in Jackson Hole is privately owned—the remaining 97% is permanently preserved. Jackson Hole's passionate commitment to the preservation of its natural resources has led to a town of unparalleled beauty that is highly sought after. In addition, Wyoming's wealth-friendly tax status has created incredible diversity in luxury home options for interested buyers. Jackson Hole is separated into several distinct areas with opulent private homes and lavish neighborhoods that appeal to even the most discerning buyer.
Jackson proper offers an array of amenities, with a vibrant art scene that is showcased in the celebrated Jackson Hole Center For The Arts. In addition, Snow King Mountain is located within the town, a plus for avid skiers and snowboarders. Finally, residents enjoy proximity to downtown shops, medical centers, the airport, and national park entrances. Homes here range from luxury condos to magnificent single-family mansions.
North of Jackson enjoys more of a country club lifestyle, with world-class golf courses and tennis amenities. Residences feature breathtaking views of the Teton Mountain Range and access to the Snake River.
West of Jackson has some of the most protected landscapes in Jackson Hole, including the West Gros Ventre Butte, Walton Ranch, and Puzzleface Ranch. This area is famous for its inspiring and dramatic landscapes.
South of Jackson, known as South Park, offers more secluded properties convenient to bike paths and town services. Neighborhoods here include Rafter J, Melody Ranch, and 3-Creek Ranch. In addition, the area is home to the finest, exclusively private golf and fly fishing amenities.
2. Get pre-approved
Getting pre-approval for a mortgage is an important step before you begin your search for new homes. The pre-approval gives you a much more solid idea of what you can comfortably afford and will provide you with a financial advantage when negotiating on a property. After all, sellers want to feel assured that they are working with a buyer who has the financial standing to afford their property, and the buying process tends to move more quickly when the buyer has a pre-approval in hand. Be sure to shop around for the best mortgage rates, as they may vary by lender.
3. Hire an experienced local real estate agent
Buyers who team up with an experienced local real estate agent will have a true professional on their side who has their best interests at heart. They will guide you in securing the best price on a new home in Jackson Hole.
Experienced agents have solid and reliable networks, giving them the advantage of being “in the know” about properties that will soon hit the market, and they can match you with gorgeous homes that align with your criteria. In addition, experienced agents are highly skilled in negotiations, and they are experts at valuing the properties you are considering.
When buying a home in Jackson Hole, you want to work with an expert agent who will guide you through every step of the real estate process, from looking at listings to closing on your dream home.
4. Have at least a 20% down payment ready
When buying a home, the more money you put down, the less interest you will pay over time. If you put down a 20% down payment, you can also avoid PMI, the fee that covers the insurance to protect lenders. No matter how much down payment you decide to utilize, it’s essential to be financially prepared so that you can feel confident moving forward.
5. The steps after you've made an offer
Once you've decided on buying a home in Jackson Hole, consult your agent on making a reasonable, competitive offer. If the seller accepts your bid, the home moves into escrow, and you can proceed to the home inspection, home appraisal, and closing of the sale.
The home inspection will ensure that the property you are buying is in perfect condition, revealing any areas of concern that you can negotiate on with the seller. The home appraisal is usually conducted by a third party and will evaluate whether you are paying a fair price for the home. After these steps are completed, you can begin signing all the necessary paperwork to take ownership of your new luxury Jackson Hole home.
Experience counts
If you're considering
buying a home in Jackson Hole, you will want to team up with an experienced local agent who has the skills that get results. The agents at
Icuss Group are leaders in the Jackson Hole real estate scene. Their unparalleled knowledge of the area, impressive portfolio of luxury properties, and solid success rate in effective closings should put them at the top of your list. So, if you're ready to start the home-buying process, don't hesitate to contact them for all your real estate needs!
*Header photo courtesy of Shutterstock