We Invite You to be Part of our Summer Catalogue of Fine Properties

Listing your property this spring?

List with Jackson Hole Sotheby’s International Realty by May 20th and recieve premium placement (1/4 page or larger) in our upcoming Catalogue of Fine Propeties.

Why List with us?

Jackson Hole Sotheby’s International Realty sold twice the dollar volume of our closest competitor in the first quarter of 2013.

We have 9 sales offices in the region with 5 at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort including Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole.

Our professionals have experience dating back to the earliest real estate developments in Jackson Hole with expertise in all price ranges assisting everyone from the first time buyer to the seasoned developer.

The Sotheby’s Realty and Auction House networks provide global listing exposure- from New York to Hong Kong.

Our 2013 marketing plan delivers over 700 million impressions worldwide withexclusive media partnerships including the New York Times and Wall Street Journal. To register for this free offer: email us or call 307-733-9009

The Good News on Jackson Hole Taxes | Wyoming #1 with Money MSN, Wall Street Journal, USA Today

It is mid April in Jackson Hole – the time of year where one day it is sunny and warm followed by a small snow squall the next day. But don’t worry. It’s melts off by noon. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort concludes another banner season. But if you still want to ski, head 10 minutes up Teton Pass and hold on to winter a bit longer with a snow pack that will last until May. The hustle and bustle of town slows down and locals gather to enjoy the “off season” menu specials at their favorite restaurants.

So on April 15th, tax day, how do you feel if you live in Jackson Hole, WY? The consensus is quite good. The news is: if you live here it is likely you won’t feel as much of a tax pinch as you may in other states.

USA Today reports that according to the Tax Foundation, a think tank that advocates for lower taxes and a simpler tax code, Wyoming has the best business tax climate in the country due to no personal or corporate income taxes and less complicated tax codes. In addition the Foundation reports that states with low – or no – income taxes are attractive to businesses because it is easier to attract employees to such states.

Recently MSN Money ranked the top 10 states with the lowest tax burden. Wyoming took the number one spot. MSN Money notes about Wyoming, “It also has a 4 percent sales-tax rate, one of the lowest nationwide. And if you need more convincing, the state has the lowest beer tax, at just 2 cents per gallon of beer (the highest is Alaska, at $1.07 per gallon).” Who knew?

With the beer tax an added bonus; here are a few bullet points about the inviting tax climate of Jackson Hole, WY:

  1. No state income tax.
  2. Dynasty trusts.
  3. No inheritance tax or estate tax.
  4. No state gift tax.
  5. No tax on out-of-state retirement income.
  6. Low property taxes.
  7. No excise taxes.
  8. No tax on mineral ownership
  9. No intangible taxes.
  10. No tax on the sale of real estate.

Of course the reasons for living in Jackson Hole, WY go far beyond the fiscal benefits. Online searches for real estate in Jackson Hole from outside the area were so high this year The Wall Street Journal’s real estate publication Mansion took note. At the gateway to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, and touting the world renowned Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, this is one of the most unique places in the world to live.

Tucked away and private, yet vibrant with a community of people who cherish living in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, Jackson Hole remains a hidden gem in the rocky mountain west.

There is only one Jackson Hole.

A New Way to Ski | Braving the Slopes with Teton Adaptive Sports

On a day too warm and pleasant to belong to the Teton’s in January, I found myself at the base of Grand Targhee Resort in Alta, Wyoming, taking in the sights of their Plaza and base ski area. As is often the case at Targhee, there were not throngs of crowds, just enough individuals and families to add joviality and color to the scene. The stucco facades rose up like canyons on either side in contrast to the sun-sparkled and snow covered conifers rising up the angles of Fred’s Mountain ahead. The smell of grilled food and hot chocolate filled the air.

I sat strategically in the corner window of Branding Iron restaurant, holding a gourmet huckleberry barbecue burger in one hand and binoculars in the other. I was trying desperately to sneak glimpses of my daughter who was enrolled with her kindergarten classmates in an Alpine ski winter sports program. Kids in Teton Valley, Idaho have it good – the public schools offer a variety of winter sports to immerse themselves in the Teton winter wonderland. Today was my daughter’s first opportunity to experience the thrill of careening down a slope of wonder.

But this was no ordinary first-time experience.

Two years ago my daughter was diagnosed with Angelman Syndrome, a rare neuro-genetic disorder. When a parent first learns that their child has a condition that will render them unable to speak, unable to walk and require lifelong care, it’s hard to have much hope for the future. While most parents worry about ear infections and what college their child will attend, I’m wondering if mine will speak more than 10 words in her lifetime, or ever be invited to a sleep over. My mental “things my child will never do” list was quite extensive. Skiing was certainly high on that list.

Thanks to the pioneering efforts of a great team of therapists and sports professionals at Teton Adaptive Sports, individuals with physical, cognitive or medical disabilities are able to enjoy the same thrills (and spills) that captivate the rest of us in the wintertime. Headquartered in Jackson Hole, Teton Adaptive Sports was formed in 2005 with a mission “to promote and support sports and recreation opportunities for people with disabilities living in and visiting the Greater Teton Area.” Their winter Adaptive Ski Programs are available at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Teton Village and Grand Targhee Resort in Alta, Wyoming. They provide lessons for all ages, adaptive ski equipment, and offer financial assistance when necessary. In the summer months, Teton Adaptive Sports sponsors events that include biking, paddling, rafting, fishing, and climbing, and more.

According to Disability is Natural, “one American in five has a disability, making people with disabilities the largest minority group and the only group that anyone can join at any time: at birth or through an accident, illness, or the aging process.” The folks at Teton Adaptive Sports believe that people should never be limited by their challenges, and instead create new possibilities and an environment of inclusion for everyone in the community and beyond. Their motto – “It’s not a disability, it’s a possibility.”

Teton Adaptive Sports does a great job of partnering with existing services in our valleys. Our daughter had a great team… Tara Sanders, the Adaptive Program Coordinator at Targhee (who also doubles as a moose); Annie Kobetsky, Occupational Therapist from Teton Therapy in Victor, ID; Mary Langdon, a volunteer for the Adaptive program, and Jessy’s treasured paraprofessional Rachel from school. Together they strategized to give Jessy the best possible experience. I was amazed by their ingenuity and teamwork.

How was Jessy’s first-time skiing experience, you might well ask? Despite my high expectations for seeing my daughter whizzing down the bunny slopes, she remained timid and uncertain, at best. Okay, she cried for 3.5 hours. My friends assured me that this can be the case with neuro-typical kids too. I’ll take their word for it. If I have gained anything at all on this special needs journey, it is Endurance. Nothing worthwhile is achieved easily. In fact, it is the extent of our adversity that makes the eventual Joy even greater.

It takes a community to remind me that all things are possible. Great people, in love with a great place, can make a great difference in the lives of all of us, helping us find new ways to ski and overcome boundaries and barriers. Thank you, Teton Adaptive Sports, for your commitment to our families.

Julie Mcknight
Jackson Hole Sotheby’s International Realty

Barron’s Ranks Jackson Hole #1 | Top 20 of America’s Best Retreats

We knew it would happen sooner or later. Our little western enclave of Jackson Hole is being “discovered”. Of course I’ve always adored living in Jackson Hole for it’s natural beauty and community of people who appreciate being in the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem. But the good news is Jackson Hole offers some very practical reasons for home ownership as well.

This month, Barron’s released it’s annual “America’s Best Retreats” focusing on the recovering second-home market and those of us living in states classified as low tax states made top marks.

Writes Barron’s journalist Steven M. Sears, “The big winners were Wyoming, Nevada, Florida, and Texas; real-estate agents tell Penta (Barron’s Penta offers advice for families with assets of $5M or more) the trend is carrying briskly into the current year. Conversely, it’s interesting to note that the few resorts registering price falls last year included the Hamptons and Pebble Beach in high-tax New York and California, respectively.”

Barron’s Penta ranked Jackson Hole, Wyoming as #1 of America’s 20 Best Retreats not only for it’s financial benefits but for the ease of travel to and from, our spectacular scenery, world renowned ski resort, fly-fishing waters and proximity to Yellowstone National Park. Add in our restaurant scene featuring Culinary Institute of America trained chef at the Snake River Grill and our burgeoning arts community and Jackson Hole becomes more compelling than ever.

Luckily, Jackson Hole always maintains its welcoming, rustic and refined atmosphere. Celebrities who come to Jackson Hole are not here to be “seen”, but quite the opposite. They come here with their families to experience the natural beauty of the area and the friendliness of its people.

Not an Aspen or a Vail, Jackson Hole is a Rocky Mountain gem of a town with some very unique attributes not found in many parts of the world.

Amangani Resort Jackson Hole | Best Hotels of 2013

Congratulations to Amangani (translation: Peaceful Home) for their most recent award as one of the top hotels in the United States. Perched atop Gros Ventre Butte overlooking the entire Teton Mountain Range, one feels as if they are on top of the world with the beautiful valley below.

With the Snake River Valley below and the stunning mountains as a backdrop, enjoying an evening cocktail on the terrace of Amangani is probably one of the more memorable hotel experiences one can have.

Recently, Amangani was awarded Best Hotel for 2013 by US News and World Report. The location of Amangani itself is nearly perfect. Only moments from the Jackson Hole airport it is easy to get to but it feels a million miles away from any hustle and bustle.

For the winter visitor, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, known for some of the most acclaimed ski runs in North America, is 20 minutes away via a private shuttle. At the resort a private ski club is waiting for Amangani guests.

Summertime offers incredible fly-fishing in Jackson Hole. Amangani is situated just above the Snake River, known for it’s lush waters and trout habitat.

A Taste of Jackson Hole | A perspective by 13 year old Max Wilbrecht

Thirteen year old Henry Bartlett walks into a small Thai restaurant called Teton Thai, near the base of the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. He sits down waits for the waitress to come and orders the green curry and digs in.

If you’re planning a trip to Jackson Hole Wyoming, here are some tips for the dining in this mountainous region. The valley is broken down into three main groups, town, the village, and the west bank. We will start with the west bank.

The west bank or the west side of the Snake river is filled with restaurants big and small.  One of my personal favorites is the Q- Roadhouse. From steaks to seafood this restaurant is located on the village road on the left if you are going to the village. My personal favorite dish there is the Chicken Fried Chicken. It is mashed potatoes, green beans, and fried chicken covered in a delicious homemade gravy.

Next to the Q is Calico. Calico is all about pizza and pasta. The pizza is very good, and the pasta even better. You can eat inside or outside, and outside is a garden, park, field that you can just hang out in or play football, soccer, Frisbee, or any sport you desire.

In town there are too many great places to eat I cannot fit them all in. First we have The Snake River Grill. This is a fancy restaurant located on the town square. This is probably one of the nicest restaurants in Jackson. One of my favorite things there are their homemade Onion Rings. They are spicy and are huge. The come with multiple dipping sauces and are the best.

For breakfast the spot to go is D.O.G. They have the best breakfast burritos in the world. You can choose from vegetarian spicy, mild, or no spice. The same is for the meat. This small shack is located on Glenwood -hence the name Down On Glenwood.

The village or the Jackson Hole Ski Resort is a great place for eating great food. The Osteria is another Italian restaurant in Jackson Hole, but this one is different. First off the pizza there is outstanding, and can not be compared to any other pizza in Jackson. The pastas are also amazing. But the best thing there is only served for lunch. The burger, this is not just any burger, this is one hundred percent all beef burger with fontina cheese, fried onions, homemade ketchup, oh and it is juicy. Overall the valley of Jackson Hole is a must see it or taste it to believe it place, that should be on your bucket list.

Benefits of Being Western | An Overview of Jackson Hole’s Amenities

When it comes to a town with natural benefits Jackson cannot be beat. The outdoor lifestyle complimented by the old, wild western feel is unmatched in today’s fast paced environment. No mailmen, strip malls, or big-box department stores can be found, instead Mom and Pop Delis thrive and social hour occurs at the post office.

But don’t take my word for it. Barron’s cites Jackson as one of America’s best retreats for its innumerable amenities.

The main attraction to the area is its proximity to some prominent national parks: Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park. Being located within driving distance to the National Parks makes Jackson a desired location for the outdoorsman. While visiting the great American countryside you may be lucky enough to encounter some of the local wildlife. Don’t be shocked to run into elk, moose, bald eagles, or even the occasional bear. But don’t leave home without your bear spray!

In addition to exploring the parks you can also try your hand at some world-class angling. The Snake River is not only a whitewater rafting destination but a renowned fly-fishing location. If you tire of the expansive Snake, which is not likely, the Wind River Range is located just south of town with thousands of lakes prime for discovery.

If fishing is not your forte there are a handful of world class golf courses in the area. Shooting Star, designed by Tom Fazio, is located at the base of the Mountain Resort, Jackson Hole Golf and Tennis, PGA Tour Professional Keegan Bradley’s home course, can be found north of town, and 3 Creek Ranch, a Rees Jones creation, is located south of town.

Not only is Jackson packed with activities for all ages, it also provides some financial incentives. Wyoming is one of nine states that does not impose individual income taxes on its residents. If you choose to move to Jackson you’ll be happy to know the purchase of your property will not be taxed by the state either.

Last but certainly not least Jackson is home to one of the most challenging ski resorts in the contiguous United States. The Jackson Hole Mountain Resort contains 2,500 acres of inbound terrain and recently invested $31 million for the addition of the modern Ariel Tram. With two mountains to conquer, Rendezvous and Après Vous, Jackson Hole offers a truly unique winter experience.

Not only does Jackson Hole have ample avenues for your entertainment, it also contains a world class team eager to serve your real estate needs. Here at Jackson Hole Sotheby’s International Realty we pledge to provide an outstanding customer experience. Please feel free to visit us at any of our offices located in the valley.

Flying A Ranch | Private Ranch near Jackson Hole

A trip to the Flying A Ranch in winter is an exceptional experience hardly matched around the Jackson Hole area. After a one hour drive to park and load up the snowmobiles with a picnic and supplies, I and another broker embarked on the 7 mile trip to the ranch on the narrow track. As each mile passed, I felt the elation and peace that comes with leaving day to day life behind and entering the winter wonderland of the upper Green River Valley, the stunning scenery and the remote yet accessible ranch in the shadow of the Wind River Mountains.

Stories of the old cabins, the early settlers, hunting and fishing, wildlife sightings, wolves, elk, moose, horseback rides on the ranch and into the wilderness are endless.

I can imagine bringing my family and friends here, or business associates, away from the clutter and noise of civilization, to a place of peace and serenity, adventure and activity, campfires and dark nights, stars and the sounds and quiet, all together. The call is out for a new owner to settle into the Flying A Ranch, live the dream of the wilderness and experience this unique and special place, so close yet so far.

I blink and I am back in the lodge with a picnic and a snowshoe tour of the ranch where I see ravens, magpies, Clark’s nutcracker, gray jays and mountain chickadees. The occasional martin, coyote, fox snowshoe hare and weasels are reported winter sightings of the ranch manager. Spring will bring the big game back, babies are born, the lake ice will melt, the streams flow, the waterfowl settle in and the seasons change on the ranch. I will be back.

Spring Skiing in Jackson Hole | The Best Is Yet To Come

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort’s closing day is April 7th  – well over a month away – and for many, spring skiing is the best time in Jackson Hole (and the best time for airline and lodging deals too).

Instead of bundling up in your warmest winter gear to hit the slopes, this time of year a few layers of clothing and a lot of sunscreen is likely all you will need.

By March 11th, the days are longer with sunrise at a respectable 6:43 a.m. giving us a full 11 hours, 43 minutes of daylight. That is plenty of time to warm up the slopes and with the reflective qualities of snow, you are likely to shed layers as the day progresses. The month of March averages only slightly less snowfall than February in Jackson Hole so your chances of a little fresh powder are excellent. And when the sun comes out, you are in for the ultimate bluebird day.

One of the best places to revel in your spring skiing experience is at the top of the gondola at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. There, at 9,095’, you will find outdoor seating warmed by the sun and ultimate views of the entire Jackson Hole valley. The Couloir Restaurant was placed on Conde Nast Hot Tables List and named by Men’s Health magazine as “Manliest Restaurant” (certainly a cool distinction!) a few years back. Couloir serves up fresh, locally sourced ingredients with a top selection of wines and spirits.

With the warmer weather and longer days, the snow begins to change. At the very end of the season you are likely to experience a snow condition called “corn”. The cold nights freeze the wet snow and when the sun warms it the next day it is transformed into little ice balls about the size of a kernel of corn.  This is the most forgiving and easy snow to ski on as you simply glide through the crystals with easy turns being held at the perfect speed. It is truly worth experiencing.

So don’t wait. Getting to and from Jackson is easier than ever with Direct flights to 9 different cities across the country. The lift lines won’t be a problem and you just might find some corn skiing to tell your friends about and make them jealous!

Jackson Hole Hot Picks | Expert Selections of true Jackson Hole Values

Great Price for Vacant Lot in Town – This is it…vacant hillside lot located on Pine Drive in the center of the Town of Jackson. Great price for .22 acres of single-family zoned property. Sloped lot with natural landscape and views of the town below and to the north. Mountain views to the west are also possible from the building site. $219,000. #4356484. MORE INFO.

Four Seasons Ownership – Luxury ownership in the 5-star Four Seasons Resort. Enjoy the Four Seasons Hotel amenities and services at a fraction of the price. Owners have 6 weeks of use per year and may trade with other Four Seasons Residence Clubs worldwide. $270,000. #4250834. MORE INFO.

8.8 Acres with National Forest Access – This 8.8 acre lot is one of 5 individual lots for sale on 40 rolling acres with 360° mountain views. Horses allowed. Well and fire suppression system plus phone, power and natural gas are all in place. $295,000. #4397100. MORE INFO.

Price Reduced – Aspens Pond Condominium – Upper level 2 bedroom, 2 bath Cove unit with great views to the creek and mountains. Unit is in excellent condition complete with all appliances. Large living/family room with fireplace and views to creek. $484,900. #4410522. MORE INFO.

Penthouse Residence with Mountain Views – Penthouse, bi-level floor plan with sweeping views of the legendary Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. This 2 bedroom, 3 bathroom residence is beautifully appointed. Owners will enjoy ski-in, ski-out location and all of the hotel services. $650,000. #4248338. MORE INFO.

Charming Home in Melody Ranch – This is a charming 1,950 sq. ft., 3 bedroom, 2.5 baths home in Melody Ranch. Situated on 0.3 acres, a very spacious and well maintained fenced-in yard borders open space and walking path. $659,000. #4422731. MORE INFO.

Luxury Ski Condo in Jackson Hole – Versatile 2 bed/3 bath floor plan in Four Diamond Hotel Terra. Fully equipped triple lock-off condo can be rented 6 ways, providing owners/guests flexible usage & optimal rental income opportunity. Unit 318 is west facing with direct ski area views. $715,000. #4380511. MORE INFO.

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3-5 Acre Parcels with Snake River Access – Wonderful residential lots located in Owl Creek subdivision ranging in size from 3.42 to 5 acres. Some open meadow lots with ponds and Grand Teton views and some heavy timbered lots of conifers, cottonwoods and aspen trees. Horses – conditional (see CC&Rs). Prices range from $755,000 – $895,000. $775,000. #4263949. MORE INFO.

Beautiful Garden Home – The home has large bay windows and French doors that lead out to a sunny deck overlooking a large pond and small waterfall. Garden Homes are located near the Teton Pines clubhouse for golf, fine dining, tennis, and swimming. $850,000. #4331248. MORE INFO.

Cabin in the Woods – This 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2,700 sq. ft. home was custom built in 1999. It sits upon 3.34 acres adjacent to national forest allowing you to ski, hike and bike out your back yard.  Seller is a  real estate licensee. $895,000. #4331381. MORE INFO.

Lodges at Teton Pines – This townhome has a very comfortable floor plan with 2 large guest bedrooms downstairs each with a full bath and private patio. The great room has vaulted ceilings, a wood burning stone fireplace and a large deck with a hot tub and mountain views. $995,000. #4336650. MORE INFO.

Custom Home in Melody Ranch – Enjoy a Grand Teton view from this beautiful 2,900 sq. ft. home. Built in 2011, this beautiful one level design has fine custom features and exceptional detail. Situated on 0.5 landscaped acres, this property is a perfect placement in Melody Ranch. $1,050,000. #4423163 MORE INFO.

Exceptional Value in 3 Creek Ranch – Bordering the 14th fairway of an award-winning private golf course with exceptional Grand Teton views, this site is the perfect location for your custom home. Owners are able to enjoy some of the best private blue-ribbon fly fishing in the valley. $1,190,000. #4248425. MORE INFO.

Hotel Terra Condo at the Jackson Hole Ski Resort – Prime Penthouse condo in the new eco-friendly Hotel Terra located at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. Featuring towering windows and a large terrace to enjoy prime mountain views. Enjoy all the amenities the hotel has to offer. Sold furnished. $1,200,000. #4247887. MORE INFO.

Cluster Home in Teton Pines – The majority of this cluster home is located on the main floor. This includes kitchen/living/dining, master suite, 2nd bedroom, office and half bath. Upstairs is another bedroom suite and a loft. Enjoy Sleeping Indian views and a seasonal stream. Seller is a Wyoming real estate licensee. $1,295,000. #4313542. MORE INFO. 

Beautiful 7.9 Acre HHR Ranch Lot – Located in HHR subdivision, this gorgeous 7.92 acre home site is ready for your dream home. This large lot boasts 360° views, a large pond and seasonal streams all creating a fantastic setting for a home. Close to all the amenities of Wilson. $1,395,000. #4318783. MORE INFO.

Best Priced Home in John Dodge – The home features private access to the Snake River. Spend time outside relaxing in the beautifully landscaped backyard. There is plenty of add-on potential to create your own place on this 3-acre property. $1,450,000. #4339793. MORE INFO.

Luxury Ski Condo at Crystal Springs – The best ski-in/ski-out location in Teton Village next to the aerial tram. A large balcony with gorgeous views of Sleeping Indian and the Gros Ventre Mountains. Hardwood floors, granite countertops, and stone fireplaces. Seller is a WY real estate licensee. $1,495,000. #4324007. MORE INFO.

Moose Creek Townhome – True ski-in, ski-out access from this highly sought after Moose Creek property. Owners enjoy private chair lift access to the ski area. This is the only duplex townhome in Moose Creek and has a great mountain feel with dramatic views. $1,595,000. #4255080. MORE INFO.

Eagle Ranch – Enjoy this 20-acre retreat in Eagle Ranch, which offers panoramic unobstructed mountain views. The ranch blends authentic western exterior design with interior modern function. Over 7,500 sq. ft. of improvements as well as an elegant guest house. $1,850,000. #4317171. MORE INFO.

Western Contemporary Log Home in Wilson – Amazing views of the Teton Range and Wilson Faces abound from this log home in Wilson. Situated on 3.1 acres with a pond and “beach”, this wonderful 4 bedroom house and guest cabin has an open floor plan with large north facing windows. $2,295,000. #4324901. MORE INFO.

Equestrian Estate – This 11 acre equestrian property offers a 3,495 sq. ft. home, guest house, riding arena, and caretaker apartment above a 3-stall barn. This impeccably maintained home has stunning Teton views with fenced pastures for horses, and a 6-bay garage.#4393814. $3,495,000. MORE INFO.

New Mountain Modern Ski Home – This new mountain modern home with excellent ski access is the perfect four-season residence. The home has a very open and well laid out floor plan that is perfect for entertaining and everyday living. Beautiful views are found throughout the home. $4,690,000. #4362480. MORE INFO.