Well, Well, Well… What Buyers (and Sellers!) Should Know About Mountain Water
One of the unique joys of living in the mountains is the connection to nature—the crisp air, peaceful views, and yes… your very own water supply. If you’re buying or selling a mountain property, chances are you’ll be dealing with a private well rather than city or municipal water.
While having your own well can mean fresh, clean water and no monthly water bill, it also comes with a few important things to understand. Here’s what both buyers and sellers should know:
For Buyers: Do Your Well Homework 📖
Get the Well Permit Ask to see the well permit during the transaction. This document shows how the well is classified (domestic, household, livestock, etc.), how many homes it legally serves, and whether it allows for irrigation or animals. If the well does not yet have a permit (in Colorado, this is common with older houses that have not recently transfered ownership), understand the process of how to register it upon closing and who is responsible for the fees and paperwork. - 💡Helpful Hint- Ask you agent!
Request a Recent Water Test Water quality is essential for health and peace of mind. Ask if the seller has a recent test for bacteria, nitrates, and other contaminants. If they haven’t tested it in the last year, consider making that part of your due diligence. A well inspection is crucial!
Know the Well Depth and Flow Rate A deeper well may offer better long-term water reliability, and flow rate tells you how much water it can produce. In dryer areas or drought seasons, this info becomes even more valuable.
Find the Location The well head should be easy to access and clearly marked. It should also be protected from runoff, livestock, or contamination.
Ask About Maintenance Some wells require little maintenance, but knowing the history of the pump, pressure tank, and any filtration system helps you plan for future costs.
For Sellers: Be Well Prepared 😉
Gather Documentation Early Get your well permit, drilling log, and any testing results together before listing. This gives buyers confidence and saves time once you're under contract.
Consider Pre-Listing Water Testing Just like a pre-inspection, a clean water test can be a great marketing tool. It also helps avoid surprises.
Ensure the Area Is Tidy and Accessible Make sure the well head is easy to find and isn’t overgrown or buried under landscaping. This shows buyers you’ve taken care of your property.
Know Your System If your well has a filtration system or softener, know the details and when it was last serviced.
Living the Well Life
Living in a mountain home with a well is an amazing experience. You have direct access to a natural resource that many people never think about. With a little education and a bit of preparation, owning a property with a well can be a low-maintenance, high-reward part of mountain living.
If you ever need help understanding how wells work in our mountain communities or want guidance during your buying or selling journey, I’m here to help you navigate every drop 😊
#MountainRealEstate #WellWaterWisdom #ColoradoLiving #BaileyCO #MountainHomeTips #RealtorLife #WellsInTheWild #BuySmartLiveHappy
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