🏡 Second Homes in Durango: Is Now a Good Time to Buy?
Durango’s Second Home Market Is Heating Up
Whether you’re dreaming of weekend getaways, planning for retirement, or looking for a rental-ready vacation spot, second homes in Durango are an increasingly attractive option. With its blend of year-round recreation, charming downtown, and small-town feel, Durango offers everything second-home buyers are looking for—and more.
But is now a good time to buy? In this post, we’ll break down current trends, top neighborhoods, financing tips, and what to consider before buying your second home in this scenic Colorado town.
Why Buyers Are Choosing Durango for Their Second Home
🏔️ Outdoor Recreation Year-Round
- Summer: Biking, hiking, river rafting, fly fishing
- Winter: Skiing at Purgatory Resort, snowshoeing, hot springs
- Fall: Gorgeous foliage and uncrowded trails
- Spring: Wildlife, mountain flowers, and quiet season rates
✈️ Easy Access
Durango-La Plata County Airport offers direct flights to Denver, Phoenix, and Dallas—making weekend visits or monthly getaways convenient for out-of-state homeowners.
🌆 Small Town with Big Amenities
Enjoy award-winning restaurants, live music, art galleries, breweries, and boutique shopping—all in a laid-back, welcoming setting.
💵 Long-Term Investment Potential
Many second homes in Durango appreciate in value thanks to:
- Limited land for new construction
- Desirable location for both full-time and seasonal residents
- A strong tourism economy and short-term rental market
Best Areas to Buy a Second Home in Durango
🏙️ Historic Downtown
- Walkable to shops, restaurants, and the Animas River Trail
- Great for buyers who want entertainment and convenience
- Condo options and cozy bungalows available
- Limited inventory = high demand and strong resale value
🏔️ Purgatory Resort & Twilight Peaks
- Ski-in/ski-out properties available
- Perfect for winter getaways and vacation rentals
- Managed resort communities = hassle-free ownership
🌲 Edgemont Highlands & Edgemont Ranch
- Just minutes from town but tucked into pine forests
- Community trails, river access, and upscale homes
- Ideal for seasonal living with privacy and amenities
⛳ Glacier Club / Tamarron
- Golf, spa, dining, and breathtaking views
- Gated luxury communities with full-service amenities
- Strong vacation rental potential during golf and ski seasons
🏞️ Bayfield & Forest Lakes
- More affordable options 25–35 minutes from town
- Lake access, forested lots, and cabins for true mountain escape
- Best for buyers who want solitude, views, and lower price points
Pros and Cons of Owning a Second Home
✅ Pros:
- Personal getaway whenever you need it
- Build equity in a high-value market
- Potential rental income (short-term or seasonal)
- Retirement transition plan
- Family legacy or multi-generational use
❌ Cons:
- Additional mortgage, maintenance, and property taxes
- May require local property management
- STR rules and seasonal demand can fluctuate
- Insurance for mountain homes may be higher
Financing a Second Home in Durango
Buying a second home often involves stricter financial requirements than a primary residence.
Requirements to Expect:
- 10–20% down payment (depending on lender and occupancy plans)
- Higher credit score minimums
- Proof of income and reserves
- Property must be suitable for year-round occupancy (for most second home loan types)
Work with a lender familiar with second homes in Durango, as mountain and resort areas may require additional underwriting.
Using Your Second Home as a Rental
Many Durango second-home owners offset costs by offering short-term rentals through Airbnb or VRBO when not in town.
Key Considerations:
- Local STR permits and zoning regulations
- HOA restrictions (especially in resort or planned communities)
- Hiring a local property manager or cleaner
- Income potential varies by location and season
Popular rental-friendly areas include:
- Purgatory Resort
- Tamarron / Glacier Club
- Downtown Durango condos
When Is the Best Time to Buy?
Right now, second homes in Durango offer a unique opportunity:
- Prices have stabilized after sharp increases during the pandemic boom
- Inventory is rising slightly, giving buyers more options
- Interest rates may ease later this year, increasing competition—so acting sooner may be smart
Buying during the spring or fall shoulder seasons may yield better pricing and more motivated sellers compared to peak summer or winter.
Whether you’re planning quiet retreats, outdoor adventures, or a future retirement plan, second homes in Durango offer value beyond the bottom line. With strong appreciation, rental potential, and an unbeatable lifestyle, a second home here isn’t just a purchase—it’s a long-term investment in how you want to live.
Work with a local agent who understands the seasonal rhythms, STR rules, and neighborhood nuances, and you’ll be well on your way to making your mountain dream a reality.
