Whether you're tired of living in the city or just looking for a new experience, buying a home in the mountains can provide a nice change of pace. If you've never lived in the mountains (or even visited) before, here are two things you can do to prepare yourself for the challenges you'll face.

Adapt to Altered Altitude

One of the first things you'll experience living in the mountains are the side effects of the higher altitude. The further above sea level you go, the thinner the air becomes. At about 8,000 feet over sea level, the reduced oxygen can cause you to experience a number of illnesses.

The most common is acute mountain sickness, which mimics the symptoms associated with a hangover. You may feel dizzy, nauseated, breathless, and have headaches and muscle aches. You may even find it difficult to sleep until you get used to the change in oxygen levels and air pressure.

The best way to minimize how badly you're affected by acute mountain sickness is to prepare as much as possible beforehand. Smoking (both cigarettes and marijuana) can reduce lung function, so you should quit long before your move. Acclimating to the new airspace can dehydrate you, so begin drinking lots of water every day and avoid dehydrating substances (e.g. caffeine, alcohol) until any symptoms you do experience pass.

It's also a good idea to talk to your doctor about your lung and brain health. The change in altitude can cause a buildup of fluid in the lungs and brain, both of which can be life-threatening. Thus, take any precautions your healthcare provider recommends to protect your health.

Build Up Your DIY Skills

The main draw of living in the mountains is the peace and quiet. However, one of the main disadvantages is that it can be hard to get service for problems that may develop as part of owning a home. That means, much of the maintenance your home requires will fall on you to do. This is something to consider as you begin looking for luxury mountain homes for sale.

So, it's a good idea to learn some basic home repair skills so you can take care of small things that break. You can find tons of videos on YouTube and other video sharing sites that will teach you pretty much anything you want to know. However, many home improvement stores also have free classes on a variety of topics related to house maintenance. You'll save money in the long run and enjoy a more independent life by investing in learning as much as you can about home repair.

For tips on moving to the mountains or assistance with finding the perfect mountain home for you, contact a real estate agent.