Soon-to-be empty nesters are ready to trade in their suburban Illinois digs for the pristine peaks of the Rocky Mountains; they hunt for the Colorado mountain home of their dreams in the towns of Conifer and Evergreen.

A couple is ready to search for their dream mountain home in Estes Park, Colo.; they enjoy hiking and rock climbing; they challenge their real estate agent to find the perfect house with south-facing windows, an open floor plan and a large kitchen.