Filed under: Design, News, Buying
By Catherine ShermanReady to put on your hiking boots and head to the mountains? Leading designers and builders renovated historic cabins in the latest episode of NBC's reality show "American Dream Builders." The classic American getaway represents a simpler way of life where families can gather and enjoy the great outdoors.
Some cabins are built from logs with a simple one-story construction, while others have tin roofs, timber supports and unique elements from nature. But architecture isn't what they're necessarily known for. The true sign of a cabin is a rustic, lived-in feel that becomes more rich over time.
On the show, the contestants tried to preserve each cabin's character, while adding some much needed repairs and upgrades. By doing so, they nearly doubled the Zestimate(R) home values. The Zestimate is not a substitute for an appraisal, but it is a great starting point for determining a home's value.
Want to see more rustic retreats? We've gathered a few on the market starting at $105,000. Click on the links below to see each home's Zestimate, square footage, maps of the surrounding landscape and more.
Gatlinburg, Tenn.
507 Hoot Owl WayFor sale: $105,000
Nicknamed "Blueberry Hill," this cabin is ideal for snuggling up with a good book by the fire. The one-bedroom, one-bath home has a log fireplace, heart-shaped jetted tub and a hot tub. It's also within walking distance of the Mountain Shadows Resort pool and just minutes from downtown Gatlinburg.
Big Bear Lake, Calif.
739 Tehama DriveFor sale: $225,000
If you fell in love with the Big Bear cabins on the show, you're in luck! This cabin is a short walk from the Big Bear Mountain Golf Course. The 1962 construction has a unique A-frame entrance, cozy brick fireplace and a large lot filled with pine trees.
Kalispell, Mont.
4216 Foothill Road
For sale: $350,000
From the snowshoes hanging on the wall to the rocking chair in the master bedroom -- this cabin is filled with rustic details. The property spans nearly five acres with three garages and a guest cabin.
Placerville, Colo.
4444 Wood Road
For sale: $895,000
This custom, Colorado cabin has designer touches throughout. Antlers, animal skin rugs and fluffy throw blankets give the place a mountain-lodge feel. A rooftop deck is prime spot for soaking in views of the peaks and relaxing in the hot tub.
Camano Island, Wash.
2441 Bretland RoadFor sale: $299,950
With views of Port Susan, the Cascades and Mount Baker, this Camano Island cabin is a Pacific Northwest gem. The 1978-built home has tall, wood-vaulted ceilings framed by a wall of windows overlooking Puget Sound.
American Dream Builders: Episode 4 Recap
Get Amy's Take on American Dream Builders Episode 4
American Dream Builders Episode 4: Before & After
More on AOL Real Estate:
Find out how to calculate mortgage payments.
Find homes for sale in your area.
Find foreclosures in your area.
Find homes for rent in your area.
Follow us on Twitter at @AOLRealEstate or connect with AOL Real Estate on Facebook.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments