Prefab vs. Site-Built Homes: The Full Cost, Quality & Value Breakdown (SmartPads Interview)

The Missing Piece

In this episode of Steamboat Real Estate & Investing, Ryan Cox sits down with restauranteur and developer Collin Kelley for a candid conversation about entrepreneurship, development, consumer spending, and the future of the Yampa Valley. As the owner of Primrose and Cypress, developer of The Latigo, and visionary behind the transformative Forty West Mercantile project in west Steamboat, Collin shares lessons learned from building businesses, navigating economic uncertainty, and creating places where people want to live, gather, and invest. The conversation also explores Lumbre, a forthcoming Southwestern and Spanish-inspired restaurant at The Latigo built around live-fire cooking, and how memorable dining experiences can help define the character and vibrancy of a community. Topics include: 💰 Going from an overdrawn bank account to building a successful restaurant and development portfolio 📈 How inflation, rising costs, and even the price of beef impact local businesses 🛍️ Changing consumer spending habits across different income segments 🏢 The Latigo - a new luxury project on Yampa Street 🏙️ What makes downtown Steamboat vibrant and resilient 🍽️ The inspiration behind a European-style chef-driven market and food hall planned for west Steamboat 🔥 The vision behind Lumbre, a Southwestern and Spanish-inspired restaurant concept built around open-fire cooking 🚀 The future of entrepreneurship in mountain towns Projects shaping Steamboat's future include: 🏢 The Latigo – An approved mixed-use downtown development featuring 8 luxury residences, a new restaurant concept, and structured parking. 🏘️ The Emerald – A boutique downtown infill project delivering 5 luxury townhomes within walking distance of Steamboat's core. 🏢 608 Yampa – A riverfront luxury condominium development featuring 4 residences in one of downtown's most walkable locations. 🍽️ Steamboat Basecamp – A west-side mixed-use neighborhood with 75 apartment units completed in Phase I, Townhomes, with additional apartments planned. 🏡 The Glen – A major residential neighborhood expansion planned to include approximately 130 single-family homes and 30+ townhomes, representing one of the largest future housing additions in Steamboat. 📈 Combined Impact – More than 250 new residential units in Downtown/West Steamboat, along with new restaurants, retail, community gathering spaces, and amenities that will help shape the next chapter of Steamboat Springs. Plus: ☀️ Top five things to do in Steamboat during the summer 💵 If Collin had $1 million to invest in the Yampa Valley today, where would he put it—and why? Whether you're interested in real estate, entrepreneurship, restaurants, investing, or the future of mountain communities, this conversation offers a fascinating look at where Steamboat is headed. Subscribe for more conversations around Steamboat real estate, investing, mountain lifestyle, and market insights. About Collin Kelley Collin Kelley is a Steamboat Springs entrepreneur, restaurateur, and real estate developer. He is the owner of Primrose and Cypress, developer of The Latigo mixed-use project, and visionary behind Forty West Mercantile, a chef-driven market hall and community gathering concept planned for west Steamboat. Through his work in hospitality, food, and development, Collin focuses on creating experiences and places that strengthen community, support local business, and contribute to the long-term vibrancy of the Yampa Valley. www.primrosesteamboat.com www.cypress-steamboat.com www.latigo-steamboat.com www.steamboatpilot.com/news/steamboat-12th-yampa-development-approved-planning-commission/ www.steamboatpilot.com/news/plans-introduced-for-chef-driven-market-on-steamboats-west-side > Ryan Cox is a top-performing luxury real estate broker at Steamboat Sotheby’s International Realty, with nine years of brokerage experience, multiple record-setting sales, and a proven history of delivering development projects in Steamboat Springs and beyond. A University of Colorado Leeds School of Business marketing graduate, he spent nine years at Smartwool (VF Corp) before co-founding and scaling SmartPads—a luxury prefab home company that delivered over 50 residential and commercial projects across the Western U.S., culminating in a successful exit. He also led an international luxury residential development in Costa Rica. Drawing on that experience and Sotheby’s international network, Ryan delivers sophisticated market intelligence and an insider’s perspective for luxury buyers and sellers. > > Recognized with Sotheby’s Global Summit Awards (2017–2023) and named among RealTrends America’s Best (Top 1.5%) in 2023 and 2026, Ryan combines construction and development expertise with sharp negotiation skills and a highly tailored boutique approach. He has set multiple sales records in premier neighborhoods including Sunlight, Steamboat Pines, and The Sanctuary. His understanding of construction and development gives clients a unique edge in navigating Steamboat Springs and Routt County real estate. www.ryancoxrealestate.com www.steamboatrealestateandinvesting.com Ryan.Cox@Steamboatsir.com

What is Going on at the Steamboat Base Area!?

In this episode of Steamboat Real Estate & Investing, Ryan Cox sits down with Kerry Shea to discuss the transformation unfolding at Steamboat’s base area — a development surge that is arguably two decades in the making. The conversation focuses on 1700 Ski Time Square — a luxury 23-residence project located in Ski Time Square at the Steamboat base area that is scheduled to break ground this summer. Ryan and Kerry also discuss touch upon other major upcoming base area projects, including The Astrid (~64 residences), The Stockman (95 residences + 59 hotel rooms), Wildaire (20 residences), and The Amble (42 residences), while exploring the broader implications these developments may have on the future trajectory of Steamboat real estate.  Other topics include:  • The evolving luxury buyer profile in Steamboat • Who is interested in 1700 Ski Time Square, new base area product, and what they are seeking • How buyer preferences are shifting around amenities, longer term stays, convenience, and lifestyle • Whether new development could elevate condo pricing across the broader market • What this new era of investment may mean for existing property owners and future buyers alike Don't miss this thoughtful conversation on new luxury product, development, demographics, base area evolution, and where the Steamboat market may be headed next. Subscribe for more conversations around Steamboat real estate, investing, mountain lifestyle, and market insights. > Ryan Cox is a top-performing luxury real estate broker at Steamboat Sotheby’s International Realty, with nine years of brokerage experience, multiple record-setting sales, and a proven history of delivering development projects in Steamboat Springs and beyond. A University of Colorado Leeds School of Business marketing graduate, he spent nine years at Smartwool (VF Corp) before co-founding and scaling SmartPads—a luxury prefab home company that delivered over 50 residential and commercial projects across the Western U.S., culminating in a successful exit. He also led an international luxury residential development in Costa Rica. Drawing on that experience and Sotheby’s international network, Ryan delivers sophisticated market intelligence and an insider’s perspective for luxury buyers and sellers. > > Recognized with Sotheby’s Global Summit Awards (2017–2023) and named among RealTrends America’s Best (Top 1.5%) in 2023 and 2026, Ryan combines construction and development expertise with sharp negotiation skills and a highly tailored boutique approach. He has set multiple sales records in premier neighborhoods including Sunlight, Steamboat Pines, and The Sanctuary. His understanding of construction and development gives clients a unique edge in navigating Steamboat Springs and Routt County real estate. www.ryancoxrealestate.com www.steamboatrealestateandinvesting.com Ryan.Cox@Steamboatsir.com

2025 Year-End Market Recap | Normalization, Opportunity & 2026 Listing Strategy

In this episode of Steamboat Real Estate & Investing, Ryan Cox breaks down the finalized 2025 year-end data and what it means heading into 2026. After several years of volatility, 2025 marked a clear return to market normalization in Steamboat Springs. Inventory seasonality returned, pricing remained resilient, and buyers became more analytical — creating strategic opportunities for both buyers and sellers.  Inside this episode: • Year-over-year sales & pricing trends • Single family home inventory spike in late May / June • Why early-season listing strategy outperformed • Record-breaking luxury transactions • Tactical positioning advice for both buyers and sellers in 2026 • Development pipeline outlook (Base Area) We also discuss how the seasonal inventory wave created a tactical advantage for sellers who entered the market early — and why that timing strategy may be even more important in 2026. If you're considering buying, selling, or just interested in learning more about Real Estate in Steamboat Springs, this episode provides critical insight on the market.  Contact me directly if you’d like to discuss your real estate goals for 2026 and beyond & subscribe for ongoing Steamboat market updates. Ryan Cox is a top‑performing luxury real estate broker at Steamboat Sotheby’s International Realty, with eight years of Steamboat brokerage experience, multiple record-setting sales, and a proven history of delivering development projects in Steamboat Springs and beyond. A University of Colorado Leeds School of Business marketing graduate, he honed his business acumen over nine years at Smartwool (VF Corp) before co‑founding and scaling SmartPads—a luxury prefab home building company that delivered over 50 residential and commercial projects to mountain towns across the Western U.S., culminating in a successful sale & exit. He also led an international luxury residential development in Costa Rica. Drawing on that global perspective and Sotheby’s international network, Ryan delivers sophisticated market intelligence and an insider’s view of what it takes to satisfy discerning luxury buyers and sellers at every price point. Recognized with Sotheby’s Global Summit Awards (2017–2023) and named among RealTrends America’s Best (Top 1.5% in 2023), Ryan combines hands‑on construction and brand‑building expertise with sharp negotiation skills, compelling storytelling, and a highly tailored, boutique approach. He’s set multiple sales records as listing agent in premier neighborhoods like the Sunlight Subdivision, Steamboat Pines, and The Sanctuary. As a dedicated buyer’s advocate, he educates clients thoroughly—arming them with the market insights and strategic guidance needed to make confident decisions that meet their unique lifestyle & financial goals. His insider understanding of construction and development gives clients a unique edge in navigating the nuances of Steamboat Springs and Routt County real estate. He’s passionate about all things Steamboat and loves blending each client’s needs with everything this remarkable region has to offer. Fluent in Spanish and an avid skier, mountain biker, fly‑fisherman, rafter, and aspiring surfer, and former member of a Grammy‑nominated bluegrass band, Ryan treasures life in Steamboat Springs with his wife, Lulu (Owner of Amuse Bouche Catering), and two kids. Let Ryan’s expertise be the driving force behind your next real estate success. Education & Awards B.S. Marketing, University of Colorado (2006) International Business Degree, Universidad Pablo de Olavide — Seville, Spain 2018 Steamboat Sotheby’s Rookie of The Year Certified Negotiation Expert Sotheby’s Global Summit Award (2017–2023) #steamboatrealestate #steamboatsprings #2025recap #coloradorealestate #coloradorealestateinvesting #mountains www.steamboatsprings.luxury https://youtu.be/6CLLJFe-8BM > Ryan Cox is a top-performing luxury real estate broker at Steamboat Sotheby’s International Realty, with nine years of brokerage experience, multiple record-setting sales, and a proven history of delivering development projects in Steamboat Springs and beyond. A University of Colorado Leeds School of Business marketing graduate, he spent nine years at Smartwool (VF Corp) before co-founding and scaling SmartPads—a luxury prefab home company that delivered over 50 residential and commercial projects across the Western U.S., culminating in a successful exit. He also led an international luxury residential development in Costa Rica. Drawing on that experience and Sotheby’s international network, Ryan delivers sophisticated market intelligence and an insider’s perspective for luxury buyers and sellers. > > Recognized with Sotheby’s Global Summit Awards (2017–2023) and named among RealTrends America’s Best (Top 1.5%) in 2023 and 2026, Ryan combines construction and development expertise with sharp negotiation skills and a highly tailored boutique approach. He has set multiple sales records in premier neighborhoods including Sunlight, Steamboat Pines, and The Sanctuary. His understanding of construction and development gives clients a unique edge in navigating Steamboat Springs and Routt County real estate. www.ryancoxrealestate.com www.steamboatrealestateandinvesting.com Ryan.Cox@Steamboatsir.com

What Makes Steamboat Different: Olympians on Sport, Community, and Building a Life Here

In this episode of Steamboat Real Estate & Investing, I sit down with Olympic athletes Nelson Carmichael and Caroline Lalive to explore what truly makes Steamboat different. We talk about growing up in Steamboat Springs — how the town has changed, what has remained constant, and the moments early on when skiing shifted from something they did after school to something that would shape their lives. Nelson and Caroline reflect on defining moments in their competitive careers, the realities of the Olympic journey, and the experiences people don’t always see behind the results. The conversation also goes beyond sport, touching on why Steamboat continues to produce world-class athletes, how local schools and the Winter Sports Club play a role in shaping kids here, and what it’s like to raise families in a small mountain town built around commitment, balance, and community. We also dive into building homes in Steamboat — from recent construction projects to how they think about risk, design, timing, and buyer preferences in today’s evolving market. It’s a thoughtful look at why people choose to build here, why many choose to stay, and how place, lifestyle, and long-term thinking intersect in Steamboat Springs. This episode is about more than skiing or real estate — it’s about understanding what makes Steamboat work, and why it continues to attract families, athletes, and investors looking to build a life here. #SteamboatSprings #SkiTownUSA #SteamboatRealEstate #MountainTownLiving #RealEstatePodcast #CommunityMatters  > Ryan Cox is a top-performing luxury real estate broker at Steamboat Sotheby’s International Realty, with nine years of brokerage experience, multiple record-setting sales, and a proven history of delivering development projects in Steamboat Springs and beyond. A University of Colorado Leeds School of Business marketing graduate, he spent nine years at Smartwool (VF Corp) before co-founding and scaling SmartPads—a luxury prefab home company that delivered over 50 residential and commercial projects across the Western U.S., culminating in a successful exit. He also led an international luxury residential development in Costa Rica. Drawing on that experience and Sotheby’s international network, Ryan delivers sophisticated market intelligence and an insider’s perspective for luxury buyers and sellers. > > Recognized with Sotheby’s Global Summit Awards (2017–2023) and named among RealTrends America’s Best (Top 1.5%) in 2023 and 2026, Ryan combines construction and development expertise with sharp negotiation skills and a highly tailored boutique approach. He has set multiple sales records in premier neighborhoods including Sunlight, Steamboat Pines, and The Sanctuary. His understanding of construction and development gives clients a unique edge in navigating Steamboat Springs and Routt County real estate. www.ryancoxrealestate.com www.steamboatrealestateandinvesting.com Ryan.Cox@Steamboatsir.com

How Giving Transforms Communities | Yampa Valley Community Foundation with Traci Hiatt

This holiday season community matters! On this episode of Steamboat Real Estate & Investing, I sit down with Traci Hiatt, Director of Philanthropy at the Yampa Valley Community Foundation, to explore how local giving directly strengthens the Yampa Valley — from mental-health support 🧠, to crisis response 🚑, to housing stability 🏡. Whether you're a longtime Steamboat local, a second-home owner, or someone who simply loves this valley, this conversation will inspire you to think about your role in shaping our community’s future. ✨ In this episode we cover: 🏔️ What YVCF does and how it operates across Routt & Moffat Counties 💰 Annual funding levels and how donor dollars flow into real outcomes 🧠 The biggest needs this year — especially basic needs and mental health 🎁 How people can give back meaningfully during the holiday season 📖 Some recent bright spots and stories that illustrate YVCF’s impact                    💼 How smart year-end giving can support the community and strengthen your tax position. 👇 Subscribe & Watch the Full Episode: https://www.youtube.com/@RyanCoxRE?sub_confirmation=1 About Yampa Valley Community Foundation:  Who we are – Eat Local. Buy Local. Give Local. Our community depends upon the Yampa Valley Community Foundation. By fostering deep relationships with our local nonprofit organizations and other community members, we monitor the pulse of the community – what makes it special, what challenges it faces, and where the greatest needs exist. These relationships allow us to provide our donors with unparalleled insight and maximizes the impact of their charitable giving. We are 100% locally based. Support of the Yampa Valley Community Foundation allows us to continue to provide the services and programs essential to maintaining the vitality and character of this special place. In all that we do, the Yampa Valley Community Foundation operates with the highest integrity. We are the gold standard in client services and a trusted resource to the community. Our work is impeccable, impactful and transparent to those we serve.  📍 Connect with YVCF: 🌐 Website: https://yvcf.org [https://yvcf.org/?utm_source=chatgpt.com] 💛 Donate: https://yvcf.org/give 🤝 Volunteer Opportunities: https://yvcf.org/volunteer 📞 Phone: 970-879-8632 About Ryan Cox Ryan Cox is a top‑performing luxury real estate broker at Steamboat Sotheby’s International Realty, with eight years of Steamboat brokerage experience, multiple record-setting sales, and a proven history of delivering development projects in Steamboat Springs and beyond. A University of Colorado Leeds School of Business marketing graduate, he honed his business acumen over nine years at Smartwool (VF Corp) before co‑founding and scaling SmartPads—a luxury prefab home building company that delivered over 50 residential and commercial projects to mountain towns across the Western U.S., culminating in a successful sale & exit. He also led an international luxury residential development in Costa Rica. Drawing on that global perspective and Sotheby’s international network, Ryan delivers sophisticated market intelligence and an insider’s view of what it takes to satisfy discerning luxury buyers and sellers at every price point. 📍 Connect with Ryan:   📨 Email: Ryan.Cox@Steamboatsir.com 🌐 www.steamboatsprings.luxury > Ryan Cox is a top-performing luxury real estate broker at Steamboat Sotheby’s International Realty, with nine years of brokerage experience, multiple record-setting sales, and a proven history of delivering development projects in Steamboat Springs and beyond. A University of Colorado Leeds School of Business marketing graduate, he spent nine years at Smartwool (VF Corp) before co-founding and scaling SmartPads—a luxury prefab home company that delivered over 50 residential and commercial projects across the Western U.S., culminating in a successful exit. He also led an international luxury residential development in Costa Rica. Drawing on that experience and Sotheby’s international network, Ryan delivers sophisticated market intelligence and an insider’s perspective for luxury buyers and sellers. > > Recognized with Sotheby’s Global Summit Awards (2017–2023) and named among RealTrends America’s Best (Top 1.5%) in 2023 and 2026, Ryan combines construction and development expertise with sharp negotiation skills and a highly tailored boutique approach. He has set multiple sales records in premier neighborhoods including Sunlight, Steamboat Pines, and The Sanctuary. His understanding of construction and development gives clients a unique edge in navigating Steamboat Springs and Routt County real estate. www.ryancoxrealestate.com www.steamboatrealestateandinvesting.com Ryan.Cox@Steamboatsir.com