Throughout election season, Grand County residents likely heard lots of conversations about affordable housing.

While homeownership remains difficult for those living in resort communities, Grand Cliffs, a housing development currently under construction, offers relatively affordable prices at market rates in Kremmling.

Grand Cliffs has a mix of duplexes and single-family homes. The development is located between the Muddy Creek cabins and West Grand Elementary and Middle schools. Prices range from $378,000 for a two-bed, two-bath duplex to $395,000 for a two-bed, two-bath single-family house. Homes are currently for sale.

The homes are constructed by Shirley Development Co., led by Greg Smith.

“As long as they keep selling, we’ll keep building,” said Smith.

A variety of architecture, from duplexes to custom homes

Smith estimates that full build-out of the project will be five to seven years, in three phases. Phase 1 – which includes 10 duplexes and eight single-family homes – offers the lowest cost options.

As of mid-November, Phase 1 includes two fully-constructed buildings — one duplex and one single-family home. Foundations for several other homes are in the ground and construction is moving quickly. Several more units will be for sale in February 2025.

Phase 2 is projected to be 16 units, at a slightly higher price point, around $400,000. These homes will be larger than Phase 1, and include two-car garages and accessory dwelling units.

Smith said the houses in Phases 1 and 2 are designed for working people of Grand County, including teachers, Middle Park Health staff, first responders and other community members.

Phase 3 will include the highest price point, offering large custom homes up to 3,000 square feet, also with garages and accessory dwelling units. Smith said that this phase will allow for a variety of custom homes that owners can help design. These homes will back Muddy Creek along the Kremmling cliffs, allowing for scenic views and access to fishing.

What will it be like owning a home in Grand Cliffs?

Smith explained that the project is designed to be “nearly LEED certified.”

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification is a globally recognized symbol of sustainability achievement. All homes in Grand Cliffs will be heated with heat pumps, which can also provide cooling. According to Smith, this will keep the electric bill for a 1,100 square-foot home under $100 dollars a month.

The development is part of an HOA, with a fee of $780 annually. Grand Cliffs will include sidewalks and alley ways. The power lines will be buried, so that power poles won’t impact the views.

Smith added that Grand Cliffs includes an open space easement to the elementary and middle schools. This way kids, parents and faculty can walk or bike to school.

To learn more about homes for sale or reach out to a realtor, please visit a real estate market such as Zillow.com, Remax.com, OmniResorts.com or others.