There’s a version of the mountain dream people like to sell you—powder days, patio beers, and a “one season turned forever” story.

And then there’s the real version.

We sat down with Lauren Hitchell, a Summit County business owner who didn’t just visit the mountains—she built a life here from scratch. Think: a few dollars, a broken Jeep, and a plan that lasted exactly one ski season… until it didn’t.

What followed is the kind of story that actually matters if you own—or are thinking about owning—property in Summit County.

Because Lauren didn’t set out to build a “home watch company.” She built a solution.

What started as helping homeowners keep an eye on their properties turned into a full-service, relationship-driven business designed specifically for second homeowners who aren’t here full-time—but still need their homes cared for like they are.

And in Summit County, that’s not a small detail.

Between heavy snow loads, freeze/thaw cycles, vacant periods, and the general wear that comes with mountain living, homes here require consistent oversight. Lauren’s business fills that gap with a level of attention that’s hard to replicate at scale.

Here’s the complete video: