5233 Sand Road, Howard, CO 81233

3,154 Finished Square Feet. Custom Built Passive Solar, Off-Grid Retreat. 3 or 4 Bedrooms, 3 Baths. Located high above the Arkansas River valley and 18 miles outside Salida, Colorado, is a very private 20 acre retreat. This newer executive home has 3,154 finished sf between the Main Floor and Full Walk-Out Basement, 3 or 4 bedrooms, 3 baths and is perfect for one that values their privacy - not a single city noise and trillions of stars at night. It's for the one that wants to enjoy peaceful Colorado sunsets and beautiful snow capped mountain views. Bordered on two sides by Public Lands, you can leave your front door to the nearby year-round creeks, ATV, 4-wheeling or horseback ride. Built in 2008 by a custom home builder as his own residence - he spared no expense when it comes to detail. Hardwood floors, custom tile and solid wood trim and baseboard throughout. Along with R-21 in the walls and R-60 insulation in the ceiling - the oversized high-altitude, double pane, low E glass windows provide wonderful passive solar and breathtaking views. The oak flooring and custom raised panel, black walnut cabinets make this home warm and comfortable.The house is stucco with very large Trex decks on the front and back of the home, making it almost maintenance free. On the property numerous outbuildings including a 28X40 - 4 car insulated garage/workshop with a wood stove for extra warmth , a 12X36 horse barn/tack room and a 8X8x8 insulated chicken coup (or shed). There are approximately 6 acres fenced for animals. The well is augmented for extra water rights to take care of animals and water the greenhouse and gardens. If you are into gardening or growing your own food - we have made that possible even though the retreat is located in the high desert of the Rocky Mountains. Through the use of numerous raised beds, water trough gardens, and a commercial grade 18'X40' Passive Solar Greenhouse - you can grow a surprising amount. Many of the raised beds have established perennials such as asparagus, strawberries and raspberries. In addition, there are apple trees that are just now producing fruit. Using water trough and portable gardens on the decks, a lot can be produced without leaving the house.Even though this gorgeous home is off the beaten path, there is broadband Internet, with no lag or caps. Please click on the Virtual Tour for more photos and an important message.