Zillow shows you the facts. But it won’t tell you what actually matters in a mountain town like McCall, Idaho. 🏔️

If you’re buying a cabin in McCall, snow should be your number one consideration. We get a lot of it, beautiful, yes, but also a lot of work.

Here’s what I look for when I’m touring homes with my buyers in McCall:

Roofline

Snow management is everything.

I check whether snow will slide off and block garage doors, front doors or any door for that matter. I’ve seen it. I’ve shoveled it. It’s not fun. Especially when you arrive for a weekend getaway and spend hours digging out instead of relaxing.

Driveway

Length and slope matter. A short, flat driveway makes winter easy. But if it’s long or steep, plan to hire a plow crew. No one wants to push a snowblower up a 200-foot icy hill. Trust me!

Covered Storage

Our first winter here, we lost things under the snow. Literally forgot where they were until spring. Now I always tell clients: you can never have too much covered storage. It’s a game-changer for tools, firewood, patio furniture and toys.

Heat Sources

When the power goes out, electric heat won’t cut it. I always look for homes with backup heat sources, propane, wood, or both. It’s peace of mind when storms hit hard. And while the power has only gone out a handful of times since we’ve lived here the last six years, it’s still a non-negotiables when buying a cabin in McCall, in my opinion.

South Facing Windows

If you can, buy a cabin in McCall that has the majority of it’s windows south facing. This warms up your home without the expense.

Why Working With a Local Agent Matters

This is where local experience makes all the difference. I’ve lived through six McCall winters and learned every lesson the hard way. My buyers don’t have to.

If you’re buying a cabin in McCall, I’ll help you find one that’s beautiful and functional for mountain living.

If you’re considering buying a cabin in McCall, New Meadows, Donnelly or Cascade, we should talk!

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I’m Ragan Erickson, a McCall, Idaho–based Realtor® and short-term rental coach helping people build wealth and memories through real estate. After moving from Southern California’s mountains to Idaho’s, I turned my love for small-town living and data-driven investing into a business that helps others do the same.

On my blog, you’ll find tips for buying and selling in McCall, launching profitable short-term rentals, and designing a lifestyle you don’t need a vacation from. Whether you’re dreaming about your first cabin, an STR portfolio, or a full-time move to the mountains, you’re in the right place.

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