Mountain Shadows neighborhood??

[coloradogreycat]

Something else to consider is resale value. If you're having concerns about the property, then so will buyers down the road. The last thing you want is to be stuck with a lemon that you can't sell later.

[PamelaOrr]

Hi LUVFOG. First let me say this... those are beautiful townhouses. I can see why you are diligently looking into the disclosure of the geological hazard area to move there. Covenants are good to keep the area values up, so not all covenant controlled areas are a bad thing. Maybe the 'controllers' are a little grumpy, but they have a job to do. My advice would be not to give up on the area just yet.

Most likely this area had to do an "over-dig" to be able to build upon it. There is another single family dwelling development close by where all homes must have an over-dig before foundation. Anyway, I would consider getting the parcel number and have your agent go down to the El Paso County GIS building on Vermijo. There they have land maps that may help to determine why this area is considered geological hazard. I would also call the real estate agent that first worked with the developer and builder. He's a very knowledgeable and great guy that would probably know what's going on. I'll send you a direct message with his name.

[luvfog]

Very helpful comments from everyone. This is what I found: The area is a geological hazard area because it is on a hillside and city law, since late 1990s I believe, reguires that a hazard study be conducted before hillside development is approved. All homes in the area had soil evaluations and building plans designed by geological engineers. Anyone should read review these documents before buying near the mountains (west of I-25). I also hired a structural engineer to review all docs and physically inspect. And, I had a conference with president of the engineering company who desgined the foundations. Both the engineering company and the bldg inspectiors monitored and documented compliance thoughout the process. Colorado Springs has a very comprensive building ordinance. Most problems relating to ground issues happen to homes built in challenging areas before the ordinance was enacted. Bottom line, everything is fine. I'm very satisfied. Looking forward to becoming a resident. Again, thank you all.

[nitsirk77]

So, we moved here a couple of weeks ago and are staying with my husband's aunt while we look for a rental house. We've looked at several in Briargate, and while we love the area, it's a little far from my husband's work (he's still willing to drive though). We found a house that we fell in love with in Mountain Shadows. It's close to his work and is an established neighborhood with lots of trees. The house has a ton of character. But I can't really find much info on the area. Is it safe? Are there a lot of young families? The school has good ratings (Chipeta) but it's D11 and everyone talks about D20 as being the best. My son is starting preschool this year and is on an IEP for his speech, so I'd really like a great school for him.

Overall, I'd just like to know the general "feel" for the area, if that makes any sense

Thanks everyone!!

[otowi]

That area of D11 is very good, I would have no worries about it at all. It is a great neighborhood.

[froggin4colorado]

Chipeta is a great school....rest assured! Some excellent staff and involved parents.

[MountainPharmD]

My son went to the Kindercare by the Walgreens and it was excellent. I am not sure if it is in Mountain Shadows but it is close.