Building a second home in the mountains is about more than just stunning views it’s about lifestyle, access, and long-term value. From iconic destinations like Park City and Jackson Hole to hidden gems like Huntsville and Brian Head, these mountain towns offer incredible potential for a retreat that fits your lifestyle. In this post, we share five of our favorite spots to build, plus three under-the-radar towns worth considering. Learn what makes each town unique and how Cedar + Steel can help you create a custom home that truly reflects your vision.

Building your first custom home is an exciting journey, but it’s easy to make costly mistakes along the way. In this post, we outline ten common pitfalls first-time homebuilders face, from skipping the pre-design process and choosing the wrong site to underestimating budgets and not designing for your actual lifestyle. We share expert tips on how to avoid these mistakes so that your dream home becomes a reality, not a disaster. By partnering with the right team and taking the time to plan thoughtfully, you’ll set your project up for success.

Learn what to expect during each step of the custom home design process, from initial site analysis to final construction observation. This guide from Cedar + Steel walks you through how to design a house with clarity, confidence, and expert support at every phase.