The “Texas Takeover” is a phenomenon that occurs every summer in Aspen, Colorado, as a large number of Texans flock to the picturesque mountain town to escape the sweltering heat of Houston. While the exact reasons for this influx of Texans are unknown, it is clear that the area has become a magnet for individuals from the Lone Star State, with many choosing to make it their summer home.
One such individual is Laura Umansky, a fourth-generation Texan and award-winning interior designer who has been visiting Aspen for over a decade. She and her husband, Michael, fell in love with the area after a particularly snowy visit in February, and they soon purchased a home in the town. Today, they split their time between their homes in Houston and Aspen.
Umansky is not alone in her love for Aspen. Many other Texans, including prominent businesspeople and philanthropists, make the trek to Aspen every summer. In fact, according to Lex Tarumianz, a broker associate with Sotheby’s International Realty in Aspen-Snowmass, around 8-10% of homes in the area are owned by Texans.
The area’s allure is not hard to understand. In the summer, the weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a welcome respite from the sweltering heat of Houston. The area is also home to a plethora of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and golfing, which are a far cry from the humid, hot summers of Texas.
For those who do not want to commit to owning a home, there are other options available. Dena Rafte and her husband, Bob Brown, for example, purchased a time-share condo at the Ritz-Carlton in Aspen and have been visiting for the past 20 years. They enjoy the area’s relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of Houston.
Cherri Carbonara, CEO of the Houston public relations firm Carbonara Group, is another Texan who has fallen in love with Aspen. She and her husband, Tom McGhie, use their Snowmass condo off and on throughout the year, enjoying the area’s many outdoor activities and welcoming friends and family who visit.
For John and Kathy Orton, a retired banker and a consulting counsel, respectively, Aspen has been a summer haven for over 40 years. They first discovered the area in the early 1980s, when their children were young, and have been returning ever since. Today, their children are grown, but they still enjoy the area’s many attractions, including its beautiful scenery, outdoor activities, and world-class restaurants.
Conversely, not all Texans who visit Aspen are millionaires. In fact, many are simply looking for a break from the heat and a chance to recharge. As Carbonara notes, “I have to say, being in nature and being in the mountains is just good for you. It’s good for mental health and good for physical health.”
Conclusion:
The “Texas Takeover” is a real phenomenon, with many Texans flocking to Aspen every summer to escape the heat and enjoy the area’s many attractions. From outdoor activities to world-class dining, there is something for everyone in this picturesque mountain town. Whether you’re a millionaire or simply looking for a break from the heat, Aspen has something to offer.
FAQs:
Q: Why do so many Texans visit Aspen every summer?
A: The exact reasons are unknown, but it is clear that the area has become a magnet for individuals from the Lone Star State.
Q: Who are some notable Texans who visit Aspen every summer?
A: Many prominent businesspeople and philanthropists, including Laura Umansky, Cherri Carbonara, and John and Kathy Orton, make the trek to Aspen every summer.
Q: What are some popular activities to do in Aspen?
A: The area is home to a plethora of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and golfing, as well as world-class dining and shopping.
Q: Can I own a home in Aspen?
A: Yes, many Texans purchase homes in the area, although prices can be quite high, with a median price of $14 million for a 3,500-4,500 square foot home on a 6,000-square-foot lot.
Q: Are there any alternative options to owning a home in Aspen?
A: Yes, many people purchase time-shares or rent homes in the area, allowing them to enjoy the benefits of Aspen without the long-term commitment of homeownership.
