I did not vote this challenge but would have pegged this for a ribbon. It is much more considered than the long exposure seascapes that dominate the top slots.
The Dust spot was not immediately noticeable... would be annoying on a print but OK for this comp. I might have straightened the cottage as this is a key point of interest, looks like lens distortion has tilted it off vertical.
Very strong work, flawless tones and clarity, well composed, not oversharpened... excellent! The only tiny flaw is you missed cloning out a dust spot; it being located on the intersection of the lower left third makes it especially prominent. One of my highest scores in this contest.
not normally a huge fan of landscapes. But this warm/cold contrast, great golden light and the surprise house really pulls this one together. Easily in my top 3.