2578: Skyview Elementary School | 0020: Adams 12 Five Star Schools Grade Levels: E - (1 Year)
Plan Type Official Rating based on SINGLE-YEAR SPF Report
Performance Plan
54.4/100 Points Earned
The performance framework evaluates district and school performance on Academic Achievement, Academic Growth, and Postsecondary & Workforce Readiness indicators The percentage of points earned across all indicators determines the final accreditation rating for a district or the final plan type for a school, which is displayed above The cut points for final ratings established by the State Board of Education are shown at the right of this page Failure to meet finance, assessment, and safety assurances may result in a lowered rating Refer to the scoring guide near the end of this report for more details on how ratings are determined
InsufficientStateData: No reportable achievement and growth data
(-) No Reportable Data
*State accountability policy requires 95% student participation in state assessments Students excused from testing by a parent or guardian do not impact the Accountability Participation Rate that determines whether the overall rating is reduced by one level Districts or schools with less than 95% total participation in ELA and Math receive a "Does Not Meet 95% Total Participation" descriptor that is informational and does not impact framework calculations The descriptor does not impact framework calculations First-year in the U S Multilingual Learners eligible to take the ELP assessment count as participants for ELA
2025 Final School Performance Framework
2578: Skyview Elementary School | 0020: Adams 12 Five Star Schools
ACHIEVEMENT
ACADEMIC GROWTH
This page displays the performance indicator data for the elementary school level For the 1-year report, calculations are based on 2025 state assessment results Multi-year reports include 2023 through 2025 results
Academic Achievement: mean scale scores represent outcomes for designated subjects and student groups; participation rates included on this page count parent excusals as non-participants
Academic Growth: median student growth percentiles and percentages of students on track to meet targets represent outcomes for designated subjects and student groups
For additional information regarding Academic Achievement and Academic Growth points, cut-points, and ratings, refer to the scoring guide at the end of this document.
Scoring Guide for 2025 District/School Performance Frameworks
6342: Shadow Ridge Middle School | 0020: Adams 12 Five Star Schools
Plan Type Official Rating based on SINGLE-YEAR SPF Report
Priority Improvement Plan
Year 1
40.6/100 Points Earned
The performance framework evaluates district and school performance on Academic Achievement, Academic Growth, and Postsecondary & Workforce Readiness indicators The percentage of points earned across all indicators determines the final accreditation rating for a district or the final plan type for a school, which is displayed above The cut points for final ratings established by the State Board of Education are shown at the right of this page Failure to meet finance, assessment, and safety assurances may result in a lowered rating Refer to the scoring guide near the end of this report for more details on how ratings are determined
(-) No Reportable Data
*State accountability policy requires 95% student participation in state assessments Students excused from testing by a parent or guardian do not impact the Accountability Participation Rate that determines whether the overall rating is reduced by one level Districts or schools with
participation in ELA and Math receive a "Does Not Meet 95% Total Participation" descriptor that is informational and does not impact framework calculations The descriptor does not impact framework calculations First-year in the U S Multilingual Learners eligible to take the ELP assessment count as participants for ELA
6342:
2025 Final School Performance Framework
Ridge Middle School | 0020: Adams 12 Five Star Schools
ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT
ACADEMIC GROWTH
This page displays the performance indicator data for the middle school level For the 1-year report, calculations are based on 2025 state assessment results Multi-year reports include 2023 through 2025 results
Academic Achievement: mean scale scores represent outcomes for designated subjects and student groups; participation rates included on this page count parent excusals as non-participants
Academic Growth: median student growth percentiles and percentages of students on track to meet targets represent outcomes for designated subjects and student groups
For additional information regarding Academic Achievement and Academic Growth points, cut-points, and ratings, refer to the scoring guide at the end of this document.
Shadow
Scoring Guide for 2025 District/School Performance Frameworks
2025 Final School Performance Framework
4108: Horizon High School | 0020: Adams 12 Five Star Schools Grade Levels:
Performance Plan
72.2/100
Points Earned
The performance framework evaluates district and school performance on Academic Achievement, Academic Growth, and Postsecondary & Workforce Readiness indicators The percentage of points earned across all indicators determines the final accreditation rating for a district or the final plan type for a school, which is displayed above The cut points for final ratings established by the State Board of Education are shown at the right of this page Failure to meet finance, assessment, and safety assurances may result in a lowered rating Refer to the scoring guide near the end of this report for more details on how ratings are determined
Summary of Ratings by EMH Level
InsufficientStateData: No reportable achievement and growth data (-) No Reportable Data
*State accountability policy requires 95% student participation in state assessments Students excused from testing by a parent or guardian do not impact the Accountability Participation Rate that determines whether the overall rating is reduced by one level Districts or schools with
participation in ELA and Math receive a "Does Not Meet 95% Total Participation" descriptor that is informational and does not impact framework calculations The descriptor does not impact framework calculations First-year in the U S Multilingual Learners eligible to take the ELP assessment count as participants for ELA
ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT
ACADEMIC GROWTH
This page displays the performance indicator data for the high school level For the 1-year report, calculations are based on 2025 state assessment results Multi-year reports include 2023 through 2025 results PSAT/SAT cut scores for the multi-year reports were renormed based on 2025 results
Academic Achievement: mean scale scores represent outcomes for designated subjects and student groups; participation rates included on this page count parent excusals as non-participants
Academic Growth: median student growth percentiles and percentages of students on track to meet targets represent outcomes for designated subjects and student groups
For additional information regarding Academic Achievement and Academic Growth points, cut-points, and ratings, refer to the scoring guide at the end of this document.
Learners describes students that are
Not Applicable; (-) No Reportable Data
4108: Horizon High School | 0020: Adams 12 Five Star Schools
POSTSECONDARY AND WORKFORCE READINESS
2025 Final School Performance Framework
REFERENCE TABLE: DISAGGREGATED GRADUATION RATES
CO SAT: represent outcomes for designated subjects and student groups; participation rates count parent excusals as non-participants For the 1-year report, calculations are based on 2025 state assessment results Multi-year reports include 2023-2025 results Cut-scores for the multi-year reports were re-normed based on 2025 results
Dropout Rates: represent percentages of students enrolled in grades 7-12 for districts and 9-12 for schools at any time during the year who left and did not subsequently enroll in another Colorado school 1-Year calculations are based on the 2024 End of Year (EOY) data submission Multi-year reports include 2022 through 2024 records
Matriculation Rates: represent percentages of high school graduates with a qualifying credential, enrollment, or enlistment status in a Career & Technical Education (CTE) program, a 2- or 4-year institute of higher education, a branch of the military, or a postsecondary program. Beginning in 2024, high school graduates who were enrolled in ASCENT, P-TECH, or TREP programs (i.e., Postsecondary Program) during their 5th year of high school count as successes. 1-Year calculations are based on the 2024 graduation cohort. Multi-year reports include 2022 through 2024 records.
Graduation Rates: represent percentages of students graduating high school within designated timeframes Ratings are based on the best of the 4-, 5-, 6-, and 7-year graduation rates AYGs designate Anticipated Years of Graduation, which are defined as four years after the year that students initially enroll in 9th grade Calculations for 1-Year and Multi-Year reports are based on data for students with AYGs between 2021 and 2024 For additional information about ratings, refer to the scoring guide on the last page of this report.
2354 Fairchild Dr, Air Force Academy, CO 80840 www.usafa.edu
*UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO BOULDER (CU BOULDER) (303) 492-4636 Boulder, CO 80309 www.colorado.edu
*UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO - COLORADO SPRINGS (UCCS)
719.255.8227
1420 Austin Bluffs Pkwy Colorado Springs, 80918 www.uccs.edu
*UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER (CU DENVER)
303.315.5969
1201 Larimer St. • Denver, 80204 www.ucdenver.edu
*UNIVERSITY OF DENVER (DU)
303.871.2000
Denver, CO 80210 www.du.edu
HIGHER EDUCATION
State of Colorado SCHOOL
FOUR YEAR INSTITUTIONS Cont.
TWO YEAR INSTITUTIONS:
*UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN COLORADO (UNC)
970.351.1890
501 20th St. • Greeley, 80639 www.unco.edu
WESTERN COLORADO
UNIVERSITY
970.943.2119
1 Western Way • Gunnison, 81231 www.western.edu
WILLIAM HOWARD TAFT UNIVERSITY
(877) 894-8238
1325 S Colorado Blvd Suite B-404, Denver, CO 80222 www.taft.edu
*METROPOLITAN STATE UNIVERSITY OF DENVER (303) 556-5740 890 Auraria Pkwy, Denver, CO 80204 www.msudenver.edu
*COLORADO MESA UNIVERSITY
970.248.1020 1100 North Ave, Grand Junction, 81505 www.coloradomesa.edu
COLORADO CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY
(303) 963-3000 8787 W Alameda Ave, Lakewood, CO 80226 www.ccu.edu
AIMS COMMUNITY COLLEGE
970.330.8008
5401 W. 20th St. • Greeley, 80634 all locations: www.aims.edu/locations www.aims.edu
ARAPAHOE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
303.797.4222 • 5900 S. Santa Fe Dr. Littleton, 80120
303.660-3160 • 4500 Limelight Ave. Castle Rock, 80109
303-734-3853 •10035 Peoria St. Lone Tree, 80134 www.arapahoe.edu
COLORADO NORTHWESTERN COMMUNITY COLLEGE (800) 562-1105 www.cncc.edu
COLORADO MOUNTAIN COLLEGE
for all locations: coloradomtn.edu/where-we-are www.coloradomtn.edu
COMMUNITY COLLEGE OF AURORA
303.360.4700 www.ccaurora.edu
COMMUNITY COLLEGE OF DENVER (303) 556-2600 800 Curtis St, Denver, CO 80204 www.ccd.edu
FRONT RANGE
COMMUNITY COLLEGE
303.404.5000 3645 W. 112th Ave. • Westminster, 80031 Boulder and Larimer County locations: www.frontrange.edu
LAMAR COMMUNITY COLLEGE
719.336.2248
2401 S Main St. • Lamar, CO 81052 www.lamarcc.edu
MORGAN COMMUNITY COLLEGE
970.542.3100
920 Barlow Rd. • Fort Morgan, 80701 www.morgancc.edu
NORTHEASTERN JUNIOR COLLEGE
970.521.6600
100 College Ave. • Sterling, 80751 www.njc.edu
OTERO COLLEGE (719) 384-6800
1802 Colorado Ave. • La Junta, 81050 www.otero.edu
PIKES PEAK STATE COLLEGE
719.502.2000 5675 S Academy Blvd. Colorado Springs, 80906 www.pikespeak.edu
PUEBLO COMMUNITY COLLEGE (719) 549-3200 900 W Orman Ave. • Pueblo, 81004 www.pueblocc.edu
RED ROCKS COMMUNITY COLLEGE
303.914.6600
13300 W 6th Ave. • Lakewood, 80228 www.rrcc.edu
TRINIDAD STATE COLLEGE
719.846.5011
600 Prospect St. • Trinidad, 81082 1011 Main St. • Alamosa, 81101 www.trinidadstate.edu
*TOP RANKED IN COLORADO
City Information
Local Banks
Neighboring Towns and Cities
Employment and Retirement
City Hall
Schools
Demographics
Travel and Passport Facilities
Leisure and Activities
Vehicle Permits and Licenses
Social Benefits
Thornton, CO 80241
Single-Family Homes
This week the median list price for Thornton, CO 80241 is $564,950 with the market action index hovering around 56. This is less than last month's market action index of 59. Inventory has increased to 44.
Market Action Index
Strong Seller's Market Market Narrative
The market has been cooling over time and prices plateaued for a while. Despite the consistent decrease in MAI, we’re in the Seller’s zone. Watch for changes in MAI. If the MAI resumes its climb, prices will likely follow suit. If the MAI drops consistently or falls into the Buyer’s zone, watch for downward pressure on prices.
List Price
Real-Time Market Profile
Each segment below represents approximately 25% of the market ordered by price.
Strong Seller's Market
DENVER METRO
Adams County ADAMS COUNTY: www.adcogov.org
ELECTED OFFICIALS & PUBLIC OFFICES
ASSESSOR
Thomas Swingle 720.523.6038
CLERK AND RECORDER
Josh Zygielbaum 720.523.6500
CORONER
Monica Broncucia-Jordan 303.659.1027
COUNTY COMMISSIONER (DISTRICT 1)
Julie Duran Mullica 720.523.6100
COUNTY COMMISSIONER (DISTRICT 2)
Kathy Henson
COUNTY COMMISSIONER (DISTRICT 3)
Emma Pinter
COUNTY COMMISSIONER (DISTRICT 4)
Steve O’Dorisio 720.523.6100
COUNTY COMMISSIONER (DISTRICT 5)
Lynn Baca
DISTRICT ATTORNEY (17TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT)
Brian Mason
SHERIFF
Gene Claps
SURVEYOR
Bryan Douglass, PLS
TREASURER AND
Alex Villagran
ADAMS COUNTY JUSTICE CENTER
303.659.1161
1100 Judicial Center Dr. • Brighton, 80601
ADAMS COUNTY GOVERNMENT CENTER
303.659.2120
4430 S. Adams County Pkwy. • Brighton, 80601
ADAMS COUNTY
MOTOR VEHICLE:
www.adcogov.org
720.523.6010
BRIGHTON (MAIN OFFICE)
Adams County Government Center
4430 S. Adams County Pkwy., Suite E2001 Brighton, 80601
AURORA
3449 Chambers Rd • Aurora, 80011
BENNETT
355 S. First Street • Bennett, 80102
COMMERCE CITY
7190 Colorado Blvd. • Commerce City, 80022
NORTH PECOS
12200 Pecos St. • Westminster, CO 80234
WESTMINSTER
8452 Federal Blvd. •Westminster, 80031
ADAMS COUNTY LIBRARIES:
www.libraryhours.org/co/adams
BENNETT
303.405.3231
495 7th St. • Bennett, 80102
BRIGHTON
303.405.3230
327 E. Bridge St. • Brighton, 80601
COMMERCE CITY
303.287.0063
7185 Monaco St. • Commerce City, 80022
PERL MACK
303.428.3576
7611 Hilltop Circle • Denver, 80221
DENVER METRO
Adams County
ADAMS COUNTY:
Adams County’s 2026 population is estimated at 560,079, reflecting a 0.98% growth rate over the past year (World Population Review estimate based on U.S. Census Bureau data). Adams County is the 5th largest county in Colorado. The 2010 population was 443,692 and has grown 26.23% since 2010. The county seat is Brighton. The county is named for Alva Adams, an early Governor of the State of Colorado in 1887–1889. Adams County is part of the Denver–Aurora–Lakewood, CO Metropolitan Statistical Area.
HISTORY
On May 30, 1854, the Kansas–Nebraska Act created the Territory of Nebraska and Territory of Kansas, divided by the Parallel 40° North (168th Avenue in present-day Adams County). The future Adams County, Colorado, occupied a strip of northern Arapahoe County, Kansas Territory, immediately south of the Nebraska Territory.
In 1859, John D. “Colonel Jack” Henderson built a ranch, trading post, and hotel on Henderson Island in the South Platte River in Arapahoe County, Kansas Territory. Jack Henderson was the former editor and proprietor of the Leavenworth (Kansas Territory) Journal and an outspoken pro-slavery politician who had been accused of vote fraud in eastern Kansas. Henderson sold meat and provisions to gold seekers on their way up the South Platte River Trail to the gold fields during the Pike’s Peak Gold Rush. Henderson Island was the first permanent settlement in the South Platte River Valley between Fort Saint Vrain in the Nebraska Territory and the Cherry Creek Diggings in the Kansas Territory. Jack Henderson eventually returned to eastern Kansas and fought for the Union in the American Civil War. Henderson Island is today the site of the Adams County Regional Park and Fairgrounds.
The eastern portion of the Kansas Territory was admitted to the Union as the State of Kansas on January 29, 1861, and on February 28, 1861, the remaining western portion of the territory was made part of the new Colorado Territory. The Colorado Territory created Arapahoe County, on November 1, 1861, and Colorado was admitted to the Union on August 1, 1876.
In 1901, the Colorado General Assembly voted to split Arapahoe County into three parts: a new Adams County, a new consolidated City and County of Denver, and the remainder of the Arapahoe County to be renamed South Arapahoe County. A ruling by the Colorado Supreme Court, subsequent legislation, and a referendum delayed the creation of Adams County until November 15, 1902. Governor James Bradley Orman designated Brighton as the temporary Adams County Seat. Adams County originally stretched 160 miles (258 kilometers) from present-day Sheridan Boulevard to the Kansas state border. On May 12, 1903, the eastern 88 miles (142 kilometers) of Adams County was transferred to the new Washington County and the new Yuma County, reducing the length of Adams County to the present 72 miles (116 kilometers). On November 8, 1904, Adams County voters chose Brighton as the permanent county seat.
A 1989 vote transferred 53 square miles (137 square kilometers) of Adams County to the City and County of Denver for the proposed Denver International Airport, leaving the densely populated western portion of the county as two oddly-shaped peninsulas. Adams County lost the tip of its northwest corner when the consolidated City and County of Broomfield was created on November 15, 2001.
GEOGRAPHY
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 1,184 square miles (3,070 km2), of which 1,168 square miles (3,030 km2) is land and 16 square miles (41 km2) (1.4%) is water.
Adams County surrounds (and surrendered the land for) most of Denver International Airport which are in the City and County of Denver.
DENVER METRO
Adams County
ADAMS COUNTY Cont...
ADJACENT COUNTIES
Weld County – north Morgan County – northeast Washington County – east
Arapahoe County – south City & County of Denver – southeast Jefferson County – west City & County of Broomfield – northwest
NATIONAL PROTECTED AREA
Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge
STATE PROTECTED AREA
Barr Lake State Park
DEMOGRAPHICS
For county demographics and information visit the below website and enter your county and state, then click on the map next to total population for full details: data.census.gov
COLORADO
SPORTS TEAMS & FACILITIES:
DENVER METRO
DENVER BRONCOS
Empower Field at Mile High, 1701 Bryant St., Denver, CO 80204.
Ball Arena, 1000 Chopper Circle, Denver, CO 80204.
COLORADO ROCKIES
Coors Field
2001 Blake St., Denver, CO 80205 coloradorockies.com
COLORADO RAPIDS
Dick’s Sporting Goods Park 6000 Victory Way, Commerce City, CO 80022 • coloradorapids.com
DENVER SUMMIT FC
&
Colorado’s NWSL team; 2026 home matches use multiple venues, including Empower Field, DICK’S Sporting Goods Park, and Centennial Stadium.
UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO BUFFALOES
CU Boulder athletics; Boulder-based. cubuffs.com
UNIVERSITY OF DENVER PIONEERS
University of Denver athletics; Ritchie Center ticket office, 2240 Buchtel Blvd., Denver, CO 80208. denverpioneers.com
NATIONAL BALLPARK MUSEUM
1940 Blake St., Denver, CO 80202; 303.974.5835 ballparkmuseum.com
NORTHERN COLORADO
COLORADO EAGLES
Blue FCU Arena
5290 Arena Cir., Loveland, CO 80538 coloradoeagles.com
COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY RAMS
UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN COLORADO BEARS uncbears.com
COLORADO NATIONAL SPEEDWAY
4281 Speedway Blvd., Dacono, CO 80514; 303.828.0116 coloradospeedway.com
SOUTHERN COLORADO
COLORADO SPRINGS SWITCHBACKS FC Weidner Field 111 W. Cimarron St., Colorado Springs, CO 80903 • switchbacksfc.com
AIR FORCE FALCONS goairforcefalcons.com
PIKES PEAK INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY
16650 Midway Ranch Rd., Fountain, CO 80817 719.382.7223 /ppir.com
MUSEUMS:
DENVER METRO
DENVER ART MUSEUM
720.865.5000
100 W. 14th Ave. Pkwy., Denver, CO 80204 • denverartmuseum.org
DENVER MUSEUM OF NATURE & SCIENCE
303.370.6000
2001 Colorado Blvd., Denver, CO 80205 dmns.org
HISTORY COLORADO CENTER
303.447.8679
1200 Broadway, Denver, CO 80203 historycolorado.org
MOLLY BROWN HOUSE MUSEUM
303.832.4092
1340 Pennsylvania St., Denver, CO 80203 • mollybrown.org
COLORADO RAILROAD MUSEUM
303.279.4591 / 800.365.6263; 17155 W. 44th Ave., Golden, CO 80403
FORNEY MUSEUM OF TRANSPORTATION
303.297.1113; 4303 Brighton Blvd., Denver, CO 80216 forneymuseum.com
COLORADO
MUSEUMS Cont.
DENVER METRO
MCA Denver / Museum of Contemporary Art Denver —
303.298.7554; 1485 Delgany St., Denver, CO 80202; mcadenver.org.
Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus —
303.433.7444; 2121 Children’s Museum Dr., Denver, CO 80211; mychildsmuseum.org.
Denver Firefighters Museum —
303.892.1436; 1326 Tremont Pl., Denver, CO 80204; denverfirefightersmuseum.org.
Buffalo Bill Museum & Grave —
720.865.2160; 987 ½ Lookout Mountain Park Rd., Golden, CO 80401; buffalobill.org.
Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls & Toys
303.322.1053; 830 Kipling St., Lakewood, CO 80215; dmmdt.org.
Clyfford Still Museum —
720.354.4880; 1250 Bannock St., Denver, CO 80204; clyffordstillmuseum.org.
Morrison Natural History Museum — 303.697.1873; 501 Colorado Hwy. 8, Morrison, CO 80465; morrisonco.us.
National Ballpark Museum — 303.974.5835; 1940 Blake St., Denver, CO 80202; ballparkmuseum.com.
Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art — 303.443.2122; 1750 13th St., Boulder, CO 80302; bmoca.org.
Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum — 303.360.5360; 7711 E. Academy Blvd., Denver, CO 80230; wingsmuseum.org.
Bradford Washburn American Mountaineering Museum — 710 10th St., Golden, CO 80401; mountaineeringmuseum.org. Currently listed as closed for inventory and a future move.
NORTHERN COLORADO
Fort Collins Museum of Discovery — 970.221.6738; 408 Mason Ct., Fort Collins, CO 80524; fcmod.org.
Loveland Museum/Gallery — 970.962.2410; 503 N. Lincoln Ave., Loveland, CO 80537; thelovelandmuseum.org.
Colorado Model Railroad Museum — 970.392.2934; 680 10th St., Greeley, CO 80631; cmrm.org.
Museum of Art Fort Collins — 970.482.2787; 201 S. College Ave., Fort Collins, CO 80524; moafc.org.
Greeley History Museum — 970.350.9220; 714 8th St., Greeley, CO 80631; greeleymuseums.com.
SOUTHERN COLORADO
Manitou Cliff Dwellings — 719.685.5242; 10 Cliff Rd., Manitou Springs, CO 80829; cliffdwellingsmuseum.com.
Fine Arts Center at Colorado College — 719.634.5581; 30 W. Dale St., Colorado Springs, CO 80903; fac.coloradocollege.edu.
ProRodeo Hall of Fame & Museum of the American Cowboy — 719.528.4764; 103 Pro Rodeo Dr., Colorado Springs, CO 80919; prorodeohalloffame.com.
U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum — 719.497.1234; 200 S. Sierra Madre St., Colorado Springs, CO 80903; usopm.org.
Miramont Castle — 719.685.1011; 9 Capitol Hill Ave., Manitou Springs, CO 80829; miramontcastle.org.
Ghost Town Museum — 719.634.0696; 400 S. 21st St., Colorado Springs, CO 80904; ghosttownmuseum.com.
STATE PARKS:
cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/parks
DENVER METRO
Barr Lake State Park — Brighton, CO
Cherry Creek State Park — Aurora, CO
Eldorado Canyon State Park — Eldorado Springs, CO
Castlewood Canyon State Park — Franktown, CO
Roxborough State Park — Roxborough, CO
Chatfield State Park — Littleton, CO
Golden Gate Canyon State Park — Golden, CO
COLORADO
STATE PARKS cont.
NORTHERN COLORADO
State Forest State Park — Walden, CO
Boyd Lake State Park — Loveland, CO
Lory State Park — Bellvue, CO
St. Vrain State Park — Firestone, CO
SOUTHERN COLORADO
Cheyenne Mountain State Park — Colorado Springs, CO
Lake Pueblo State Park — Pueblo, CO
Mueller State Park — Divide, CO
OTHER PARKS:
DENVER METRO
Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre — 720.865.2494; 18300 W. Alameda Pkwy., Morrison, CO 80465; redrocksonline.com.
SOUTHERN COLORADO
Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center — 719.634.6666; 1805 N. 30th St., Colorado Springs, CO 80904; gardenofgods.com.
Cave of the Winds Mountain Park — 719.685.5444; 100 Cave of the Winds Rd., Manitou Springs, CO 80829; caveofthewinds.com.
Royal Gorge Bridge & Park — 719.275.7507; 4218 County Road 3A, Cañon City, CO 81212; royalgorgebridge.com
303.561.4450; 700 Water St., Denver, CO 80211; downtownaquarium.com.
Butterfly Pavilion —
303.469.5441; 6252 W. 104th Ave., Westminster, CO 80020; butterflies.org.
EASTERN COLORADO
The Wild Animal Sanctuary — 303.536.0118; 2999 County Road 53, Keenesburg, CO 80643; wildanimalsanctuary.org.
SOUTHERN COLORADO
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo — 719.633.9925; 4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Rd., Colorado Springs, CO 80906; cmzoo.org.
Pueblo Zoo — 719.561.1452; 3455 Nuckolls Ave., Pueblo, CO 81005; pueblozoo.org.
Colorado Wolf & Wildlife Center — 719.687.9742; 4729 Twin Rocks Rd., Divide, CO 80814; wolfeducation.org.
AMUSEMENT PARKS:
DENVER METRO
Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park — 303.595.4386; 2000 Elitch Circle, Denver, CO 80204; elitchgardens.com
Water World — 303.427.7873; 8801 N. Pecos St., Federal Heights, CO 80260; waterworldcolorado.com
SOUTHERN COLORADO
The North Pole — Santa’s Workshop — 719.684.9432; 5050 Pikes Peak Hwy., Cascade, CO 80809; northpolecolorado.com.
COLORADO
AMUSEMENT
PARKS cont.
NORTHERN COLORADO
Estes Park Ride-A-Kart —
970.586.6495; 2250 Big Thompson Ave., Estes Park, CO 80517; rideakart.com.
SOUTHERN COLORADO
The North Pole — Santa’s Workshop 719.684.9432; 5050 Pikes Peak Hwy., Cascade, CO 80809; northpolecolorado.com.
TOURS:
DENVER METRO
United States Mint — Denver — 303.405.4761 tour info / 303.572.9500 gift shop; 320 W. Colfax Ave., Denver, CO 80204. Update: Tours are free, but online reservations are now required.
&
Colorado State Capitol Building — 303.866.2604; 200 E. Colfax Ave., Denver, CO 80203; capitol.colorado.gov.
Hammond’s Candies Factory Tour — 303.333.5588; 5735 Washington St., Denver, CO 80216; hammondscandies.com.
Coors Brewery Tour —
303.277.2337; visitor parking/check-in at 502 14th St., Golden, CO 80401. Update: Use coorsbrewerytour.com; reservations are required.
Celestial Seasonings Tea Tour
PERFOMING ARTS:
DENVER METRO
Denver Center for the Performing Arts — 303.893.4100; 1101 13th St., Denver, CO 80204. Box office is at 1301 13th St.
Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities 720.898.7200; 6901 Wadsworth Blvd., Arvada, CO 80003; arvadacenter.org.
NORTHERN COLORADO
The Lincoln Center — 970.221.6730; 417 W. Magnolia St., Fort Collins, CO 80521; lctix.com.
Union Colony Civic Center — 970.356.5000; 701 10th Ave., Greeley, CO 80631; greeleyco.gov/ucstars.
SOUTHERN COLORADO
Pikes Peak Center for the Performing Arts — 719.477.2121 / 719.477.2100; 190 S. Cascade Ave., Colorado Springs, CO 80903; pikespeakcenter.com.
MISC. ATTRACTIONS:
DENVER METRO
Denver Botanic Gardens —
720.865.3500; 1007 York St., Denver, CO 80206; botanicgardens.org.
SOUTHERN COLORADO
The Broadmoor Seven Falls — 855.923.7272; 1045 Lower Gold Camp Rd., Colorado Springs, CO 80905; sevenfalls.com.
The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway 719.685.5401; 515 Ruxton Ave., Manitou Springs, CO 80829; cograilway.com.
— 303.581.1484; 4600 Sleepytime Dr., Boulder, CO 80301. Update: Online reservations required for factory tours.
COLORADO
SKI RESORTS:
Arapahoe Basin Ski Area —
1.888.ARAPAHO — arapahoebasin.com
Aspen Mountain —
800.525.6200 / 970.923.1227 — aspensnowmass.com
Aspen Highlands —
800.525.6200 / 970.923.1227 — aspensnowmass.com
Beaver Creek Resort — 970.754.4636 — beavercreek.com
Winter Park Resort — 970.726.5514 — winterparkresort.com
Wolf Creek Ski Area — 970.264.5639 — wolfcreekski.com
RESORTS, SNOW REPORT AND PASSES VISIT: coloradoski.com
COLORADO
• Colorado contains about three-quarters of U.S. land above 10,000 feet.
• Colfax Avenue is often called the longest continuous commercial street in the U.S.
• Denver hosts the National Western Stock Show, one of the country’s top livestock, rodeo, and horse shows.
• Denver has 250+ urban parks and nearly 20,000 acres of urban and mountain parkland.
• Colorado is a major craft-beer state, but not #1 per capita; recent rankings place it around 6th.
• The Royal Gorge Bridge near Cañon City is America’s highest suspension bridge, about 956 feet above the gorge; it once held the world record.
• Glenwood Springs is home to the world’s largest hot springs pool.
• The Colorado State Capitol features rare Colorado rose onyx, once called Beulah red marble.
• The former Mount Evans Scenic Byway is now the Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway and reaches 14,130 feet, the highest paved road in North America.
• The federal government owns about 36% of Colorado’s land.
• The Capitol’s current mile-high marker is on the 13th step.
• The Eisenhower-Johnson Memorial Tunnel is the highest vehicular tunnel in the U.S.; it was once the highest in the world.
• Katharine Lee Bates was inspired by Pikes Peak when writing “America the Beautiful.”
• Denver’s Broncos, Rockies, Nuggets, and Avalanche venues are clustered near downtown.
• Colorado and Washington were the first states to legalize recreational marijuana in 2012; Colorado’s retail sales began in 2014.
COLORADO
STATE FACTS cont.
• Colorado’s highest point is Mount Elbert, at 14,433 feet.
• The Eisenhower-Johnson Memorial Tunnel is the highest vehicular tunnel in the U.S.
• Trail Ridge Road is the highest continuous paved road in the U.S., reaching 12,183 feet.
• The Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway is the highest paved road in North America, reaching about 14,130 feet.
• Colorado has the highest average elevation of any U.S. state.
• Denver has a debated claim as the birthplace of the cheeseburger, linked to Louis E. Ballast in 1935.
• Four Corners is the only place in the U.S. where four states meet: Colorado, Utah, Arizona, and New Mexico.
• The Colorado River gets its name from the Spanish word for “red” or “reddish.”
• The Colorado Trail runs about 567 miles from Denver to Durango.
• Denver is sunny, though the “300 days of sunshine” claim is considered more promotional than exact.
• Denver is called the Mile High City because it sits at 5,280 feet.
• The U.S. Air Force Academy moved to its Colorado Springs campus in 1958.
• Jolly Rancher started in Golden, Colorado, which is also home to Coors Brewery.
COLORADO
• ADMISSION TO STATEHOOD: August 1, 1876.
• AREA: About 104,095 sq. miles total; Colorado is the 8th largest U.S. state by area.
• HIGHEST POINT: Mount Elbert, 14,433 feet.
• LOWEST POINT: Arikaree River, 3,315 feet.
• LARGEST CITY: Denver.
• POPULATION: 6,012,561; July 1, 2025 Census estimate.
• STATE ABBREVIATION: CO.
• STATE CAPITAL: Denver.
• MAJOR INDUSTRIES: Aerospace, technology, advanced manufacturing, energy and natural resources, food and agriculture, financial services, health and wellness, tourism/outdoor recreation, and transportation/logistics.
• ORIGIN OF “COLORADO”: From Spanish, meaning “ colored red,” referring to the red-colored Colorado River.
• STATE ANIMAL: Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep.
• STATE BIRD: Lark bunting.
• STATE FOLK DANCE: Square dance.
• STATE FISH: Greenback cutthroat trout.
• STATE FLOWER: Rocky Mountain columbine, also listed as the white and lavender columbine.
• STATE FOSSIL: Stegosaurus.
• STATE GEMSTONE: Aquamarine.
• STATE GRASS: Blue grama grass.
• STATE INSECT: Colorado hairstreak butterfly.
• STATE MOTTO: Nil Sine Numine — “Nothing without providence.”
• STATE NICKNAME: The Centennial State; Colorful Colorado is a popular state slogan.
• STATE SOIL: Seitz, Colorado’s representative state soil.
• STATE SONGS: “Where the Columbines Grow” and “Rocky Mountain High.”
• STATE TREE: Colorado blue spruce.
For Colorado’s Services, Government, Employment, Education, Visitors, and much more visit co.colorado.gov
Count on First American Title.
Count on us for service.
First American Title’s professionals are proud to provide the title insurance that assures people’s home ownership. Backed by First American Title Insurance Company, your transaction will be expertly completed in accordance with state-specific underwriting standards and state and federal regulatory requirements.
Count on us for stability.
First American Title is the principal subsidiary of First American Financial Corporation, and one of the largest suppliers of title insurance services in the nation. With roots dating back to 1889, we’ve served families for generations.
Count on us for convenience.
First American Title has a direct office or agent near you. We also have an extensive network of offices and agents throughout the United States, and internationally.
Count on us to meet your needs.
First American Financial Corporation offers more than title insurance and escrow services through its subsidiaries. Our subsidiaries also provide property data, title plant records and images, home warranties, property and casualty insurance, and banking, trust and advisory services.
Scan the QR code to learn more about your local First American Title.
Benefits of using a professional REALTOR®.
Congratulations on your decision to buy a home! It’s a challenging project, and there are many ways a professional can help. Here are some of the many ways you may benefit from working with a REALTOR®:
Many more home choices.
Your REALTOR® has thousands of homes to choose from through the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), so you’re more likely to find the home that’s just right for you and find it quicker. In fact, a majority of the homes for sale are listed by REALTORS® and aren’t available to you unless you are working with a REALTOR®
A number of transactions “fall out.”
Unfortunately, it’s true. Some transactions fall apart before closing. An experienced REALTOR® may be able to resolve problems and see your transaction through to a successful closing.
Knowledge of new home subdivisions.
New home subdivisions will welcome you and your REALTOR®. If you’re interested in buying a new home, take your agent with you on your first visit to each subdivision. Your professional REALTOR® is an important source of information who can supply background on the builder, nearby subdivisions, and the local community.
It’s a major investment.
You use a professional for your legal, financial and health needs. Why gamble on what may be your biggest investment without a professional at your side?
Help with FSBO’s.
If you consider a “For Sale By Owner,” take your REALTOR® along to help negotiate the contract.
There is less liability.
You may have more protection from legal and financial liability, especially as real estate transactions become more complicated.
The paperwork.
Your experienced REALTOR® will negotiate and prepare the purchase contract for you and assist you throughout the escrow process.
Key professionals involved in your transaction.
REALTOR®
A REALTOR® is a licensed real estate agent and a member of the National Association of REALTORS®, a real estate trade association. REALTORS® also belong to their state and local Association of REALTORS®
Real Estate Agent
A real estate agent is licensed by the state to represent parties in the transfer of property. Every REALTOR® is a real estate agent, but not every real estate agent has the professional designation of a REALTORS®
Listing Agent
A key role of the listing agent or broker is to form a legal relationship with the homeowner to sell the property and place the property in the Multiple Listing Service.
Buyer’s Agent
A key role of the buyer’s agent or broker is to work with the buyer to locate a suitable property and negotiate a successful home purchase.
Multiple Listing Service (MLS)
The MLS is a database of properties listed for sale by REALTORS® who are members of the local Association of REALTORS®. Information on an MLS property is available to thousands of REALTORS®.
Title Company
These are the people who carry out the title search and examination, work with you to eliminate the title exceptions you are not willing to take subject to, and provide the policy of title insurance regarding title to the real property.
Escrow Officer
An escrow officer leads the facilitation of your escrow, including escrow instructions preparation, document preparation, funds disbursement, and more.
Your escrow professional may:
Open escrow and, if instructed to do so, deposit your good faith funds in a separate escrow account.
Order a title search to determine ownership and status of the subject real property.
Issue a preliminary report and begin the process of eliminating the title exceptions you and your lender are not willing to take title subject to.
Request payoff information for the seller’s loans, other liens, homeowner’s association fees, etc.
Coordinate with the buyer’s lender on the preparation of the Closing Disclosure (CD).
Prorate fees, such as real property taxes, per the contract, and prepare the settlement statement.
Set separate appointments allowing the seller and you to sign documents and deposit funds.
Review documents ensuring all conditions and legal requirements are fulfilled; request funds from lender.
When all funds are deposited, record documents with the County Recorder’s Office to transfer the subject real property to you.
After the recordation is confirmed, close escrow and disburse\funds, including seller’s proceeds, loan payoffs, etc.
Prepare and send final documents to all parties involved.
Terms you should know.
Appraisal
An estimate of value of property resulting from analysis of facts about the property; an opinion of value.
Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
The borrower’s costs of the loan term expressed as a rate. This is not their interest rate.
Beneficiary
The recipient of benefits, often from a deed of trust; usually the lender.
Closing Disclosure (CD)
Closing Disclosure form designed to provide disclosures that will be helpful to borrowers in understanding all of the costs of the transaction. This form will be given to the consumer three (3) business days before closing.
Close of Escrow
Generally the date the buyer becomes the legal owner and title insurance becomes effective.
Comparable Sales
Sales that have similar characteristics as the subject real property, used for analysis in the appraisal. Commonly called “comps.”
Consummation
Occurs when the borrower becomes contractually obligated to the creditor on the loan, not, for example, when the borrower becomes contractually obligated to a seller on a real estate transaction. The point in time when a borrower becomes contractually obligated to the creditor on the loan depends on applicable State law. Consummation is not the same as close of escrow or settlement.
Deed of Trust
An instrument used in many states in place of a mortgage.
Deed Restrictions
Limitations in the deed to a parcel of real property that dictate certain uses that may or may not be made of the real property.
Disbursement Date
The date the amounts are to be disbursed to a buyer and seller in a purchase transaction or the date funds are to be paid to the borrower or a third party in a transaction that is not a purchase transaction.
Earnest Money Deposit
Down payment made by a purchaser of real property as evidence of good faith; a deposit or partial payment.
Easement
A right, privilege or interest limited to a specific purpose that one party has in the land of another.
Endorsement
As to a title insurance policy, a rider or attachment forming a part of the insurance policy expanding or limiting coverage.
Hazard Insurance
Real estate insurance protecting against fire, some natural causes, vandalism, etc., depending upon the policy. Buyer often adds liability insurance and extended coverage for personal property.
Impounds
A trust type of account established by lenders for the accumulation of borrower’s funds to meet periodic payments of taxes, mortgage insurance premiums and/or future insurance policy premiums, required to protect their security.
Legal Description
A description of land recognized by law, based on government surveys, spelling out the exact boundaries of the entire parcel of land. It should so thoroughly identify a parcel of land that it cannot be confused with any other.
Lien
A form of encumbrance that usually makes a specific parcel of real property the security for the payment of a debt or discharge of an obligation. For example, judgments, taxes, mortgages, deeds of trust.
Loan Estimate (LE)
Form designed to provide disclosures that will be helpful to borrowers in understanding the key features, costs and risks of the mortgage loan for which they are applying. Initial disclosure to be given to the borrower three (3) business days after application.
Mortgage
The instrument by which real property is pledged as security for repayment of a loan.
PITI
A payment that includes principal, interest, taxes, and Insurance.
Power of Attorney
A written instrument whereby a principal gives authority to an agent. The agent acting under such a grant is sometimes called an “Attorney-in-Fact.”
Recording
Filing documents affecting real property with the appropriate government agency as a matter of public record.
Settlement statement
Provides a complete breakdown of costs involved in a real estate transaction.
TRID
TILA-RESPA Integrated Disclosures
Planning to sell.
A homeowner’s checklist to prepare your home.
So you’re planning to sell your home. You and your real estate broker have decided on a price, based on current market values, but your home may sell faster and bring a higher price if it shows well. Potential buyers will get the best impression if your home is clean, neat, uncluttered, in good repair, light, airy, fragrant, and quiet. This checklist will help you get your home ready to show.
Clean everything in you home.
Cleanliness signals to a buyer that the home has been well cared for and is most likely in good repair. A messy or dirty home will cause prospective buyers to notice every flaw.
Let the fresh air in.
Get rid of odors that may be unfamiliar or unpleasant. People are most often offended by odors from tobacco, pets, cooking, and musty or sour laundry. Fresh flowers and potpourri can be used to your advantage. Other smells that attract positive attention include fresh baked bread and cinnamon.
Painting your home.
There’s nothing that improves the value of a home for a lower cost than a fresh coat of paint. And it’s so often easier to paint a room than it is to scrub it. Stick with neutral colors - off-white is the safest. Be sure to avoid black, violet, and pink.
Keep the noise down.
Silence is a restful sound that offends no one. Turn off the TV and radio. Soft instrumental music is fine but avoid vocals. If necessary, close the windows to eliminate any street noise.
Unclutter your home before you show it.
Have a garage sale. Empty closets. Throw away what you can’t sell. The less “stuff” in and around a home, the roomier it will seem.
Fix anything that is broken.
This includes plumbing, electrical systems, switches, windows, TV antennas, screens, doors, and fences; if it can’t be fixed, replace it or get rid of it (no window screens are better than broken ones). A buyer will make a much lower offer if your house is in disrepair and will probably still insist that everything be fixed before taking occupancy. You’re better off if you leave potential buyers no reason to offer less than you are asking.
Send your pets away.
Send them away or secure them away from the house when prospective buyers are coming. You never know if people will be annoyed or intimidated by your pets or even allergic to them. And you never want a prospective buyer to have to avoid animal droppings.
Send the kids to Grandma’s.
Send them to Grandma’s or take them on a walk around the block. Children can be noisy and distracting to someone interested in looking at a home.
Make a great impression.
“Home
staging is no longer optional in this real estate market, it’s a must.”
- Barbara Corcoran
Staging Tips
Grab them from the Curb
Make It Sparkle
Pay Attention to Color and Light
Depersonalize
Spruce Up Your Curb Appeal
Clean, Clean, Clean
Declutter
Neutralize
Remove All Big Clunky Furniture
Consider Replacing Furnishings
Invest in New Artwork
Make Repairs
Apply a Fresh Coat of Paint
Don’t Forget the Floors Spring for New Light Fixtures
Don’t Take it Personally
Don’t Do Major Renovations
Don’t Think the House Will Sell Itself
Don’t Run Out and Purchase All
New Furniture
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask For Help
Top 5 Dos
Top 5 Don’ts
This checklist will help you get your home ready to show.
Exterior
Clean around service areas/trash cans
Haul away rubbish
Straighten woodpile
Repair leaky faucets
Clean up pet droppings
Paint or varnish doors
Polish door hardware
Make sure doorbell/knocker works
Paint or replace street numbers on house
Make sure septic tank is odor free
Clean oil stains from driveway/street
Patch/reseal driveway if necessary
Replace, repair, and/or paint any damages:
Plaster
Wood siding
Trim
Rain gutters
Shutters
Doors
Window frames
Glazing
Screens
Hardware
Fences/gates
Outdoor lighting
Landscaping
Mow/edge lawn regularly
Aerate/feed lawn
Overseed bare spots in lawn
Water lawn regularly
Remove/replace dead plants
Prune overgrown/diseased/damaged shrubs
Prune or remove shrubs/trees blocking view from windows (unless view is undesirable)
Stake up any sagging trees/shrubs
Keep flower beds free of weeds
Trim around base of trees/walls/fences
Repair or remove any broken or damaged
landscape accessories such as:
Fences
Walls gazebos
Fountains
Trellises
Planters
Other
Replace any broken stepping stones
Adjust any sprinkler system; repair any broken/leaky heads
Install fences or shrubs to hide any unsightly views
Clean/Wash
Siding
Windows
Screen
Outdoor BBQ
AC unit
Pool/Spa
Put Light Bulbs In
Porch lights
Carport Garage
Closets
Keep closets clean and free of clutter
Throw out or pack away non-essentials
Adjust/repair sliding doors
Lubricate sliding door hardware
Paint, if needed
All Rooms, Clean especially around:
Doors
Windows
Light switches
Baseboards
Chair rails
Wash lace curtains and have draperies
cleaned if necessary
Remove or pull back dark curtains
Lubricate window slides (soap for wood
silicon or a candle stump for metal)
Make sure doors open smoothly
Clean ceiling light fixtures
Check for cobwebs in all corners
Fix any scratches in wooden floors
Replace worn/broken flooring
Remove or replace worn carpet
Use area rugs where needed
Empty wastebaskets
Make the beds
Fluff the pillows
Kitchen
Keep dishes and food out of sight
Clean appliances
Clean range hood, including light bulbs
Clean behind appliances
Keep floor clean
Clean light fixture
Make sure all electrical outlets work
Eliminate cooking odors
Deodorize garbage disposal, dishwasher, and refrigerator
Repair faucets
Put fresh shelf paper in cabinets
Organize cupboards
Clean out under sink
Replace garbage disposal gasket to reduce noise
Bathroom, Keep them spotlessly clean:
Shine mirrors
Keep wastebaskets empty and clean
Clean out cabinets and remove nonessentials
Keep fresh, clean towels on towel racks
Clean shower door – if sliding door, keep track well lubricated
Remove soap residue, mildew and mold from sink/tub/shower
Remove stains from porcelain sink tub toilet
Replace torn/moldy shower curtain
Bathroom (continued)
Clean tile grout
Make sure toilet flushes properly –replace mechanism if necessary
Clean exhaust fan/heater – replace if broken or noisy
Garage/Carport/Shed
Install 100-watt light bulb
Keep area clean/uncluttered
Hang up/put away tools
Clear away any cobwebs
Remove oil/paint stains from floor
Adjust tension rod to eliminate sag from overhead garage door
Lubricate/adjust/repair garage door opener
Paint if needed
Laundry Area
Clean out area behind washer/dryer
Eliminate any mildew odors
Basement
Eliminate any signs of dampness
Check for and eliminate cracks
Heating/Air Conditioning Unit
Vacuum
Replace filter
Clean intake vent
Remove any stored items
Make sure the temperature in your home is comfortable – keep it cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. If it’s cooler outside and you have a fireplace, a nice fire will make your home seem cozy and inviting.
Provide an exhaustive written list of the features of your home.
Know the distance to schools and shopping centers.
Refer any prospect that calls or comes by to your broker for pre-screening and pre-qualification as well as for your own safety.
Tell your real estate agent all about the home-good and bad. Let the professional decide how to handle negatives and features or highlight the positives.
The life of an escrow.
Chooses a Real Estate Agent
Gets pre-approval letter from Lender and provides to Real Estate Agent.
Makes offer to purchase. Upon acceptance, opens escrow and deposits earnest money.
Finalizes loan application with Lender. Receives a Loan Estimate from Lender.
Completes and returns opening package from First American Title.
Schedules inspections and evaluates findings. Reviews title commitment/preliminary report.
Provides all requested paperwork to Lender (bank statements, tax returns, etc.) All invoices and final approvals should be to the lender no later than 10 days prior to loan consummation.
Lender (or Escrow Officer) prepares CD and delivers to Buyer at least 3 days prior to loan consummation.
Escrow officer or real estate agent contacts the buyer to schedule signing appointment.
Documents are recorded and the keys are delivered!
Accepts Buyer’s offer to purchase.
Completes and returns opening package from First American Title, including information such as forwarding address, payoff lender contact information and loan numbers.
Orders any work for inspections and/or repairs to be done as required by the purchase agreement.
Escrow officer or real estate agent contacts the seller to schedule signing appointment.
Documents are recorded and all proceeds from sale are received.
Upon receipt of order and earnest money deposit, orders title examination.
Requests necessary information from buyers and sellers via opening packages.
Reviews title commitment/ preliminary report.
Upon receipt of opening packages, orders demands for payoffs. Contacts buyer or seller when additional information is required for the title commitment/ preliminary report.
All demands, invoices, and fees must be collected and sent to lender at least 10 days prior to loan consummation.
Coordinates with lender on the preparation of the CD.
Reviews all documents, demands, and instructions and prepares settlement statements and any other required documents.
Schedules signing appointment and informs buyer of funds due at settlement.
Once loan is consummated, sends funding package to lender for review.
Prepares recording instructions and submits docs for recording.
Documents are recorded and funds are disbursed. Issues final settlement statement.
Accepts Buyer’s application and begins the qualification process. Provides Buyer with Loan Estimate.
Orders and reviews title commitment / preliminary report, property appraisal, credit report, employment and funds verification.
Collects information such as title commitment / preliminary report, appraisal, credit report, employment and funds verification. Reviews and requests additional information for final loan approval.
Underwriting reviews loan package for approval.
Coordinates with Escrow Officer on the preparation of the Closing Disclosure, which is delivered to Buyer at least 3 days prior to loan consummation.
Delivers loan documents to escrow.
Upon review of signed loan documents, authorizes loan funding.
The Buyer
The Escrow Officer
Chooses a Real Estate Agent
The Seller
The Lender
The Closing Process
We know the home buying process can be confusing. Let’s walk through a brief explanation of what happens after you sign the contract.
The signed contract and earnest money are delivered to the settlement agent (note: the title company often acts as the settlement agent). Now the title order begins and information such as taxes, loan payoffs, lien search, and other information is collected.
The title search will determine the legal owner of the property and any outstanding liens and/or assessments. This search is critical to making sure the property will transfer legally to the buyer.
Over the next few weeks the following will occur: inspections, repairs (if necessary), payoffs obtained from current lenders, HOA’s, lienholders, ect, and loan document preparation. It is important the buyers and sellers are responsive to requests for paperwork and information.
Once the invoices, payoffs, statements, and loan documents are received, the settlement statement is prepared. This document includes the closing calculations and is used to inform the buyer and seller of their bottom line figures.
The closing paperwork must then be signed by the buyer and the seller. This will include documents such as the deed, settlement statement, loan documents (if applicable), and others.
All payees, including the seller, payoff lenders, real estate professionals, and others are paid according to the settlement statement.
The final documents, including the deed and loan instrument, are sent to the county recorder’s office for recordation. After recording, the deed will be sent to the buyer. The title insurance policy is sent to the buyer and the lender.
Understanding title insurance.
The title industry and title insurance in brief.
Prior to the development of the title industry in the late 1800s, a home-buyer received a grantor’s warranty, attorney’s title opinion, or abstractor’s certificate as assurance of home ownership. The buyer relied on the financial integrity of the grantor, attorney, or abstractor for protection. Today, homebuyers look primarily to title insurance to provide this protection. Title insurance companies are regulated by state statute. They are required to post financial guarantees to ensure that any claims will be paid in a timely fashion. They also must maintain their own “title plants” which house duplicates of recorded deeds, mortgages, plats, and other pertinent county property records.
What is title insurance?
Title insurance provides coverage for certain losses due to defects in the title that, for the most part, occurred prior to your ownership. Title insurance protects against defects such as prior fraud or forgery that might go undetected until after closing and possibly jeopardize your ownership and investment.
Why is title insurance needed?
Title insurance insures buyers against the risk that they did not acquire marketable title from the seller. It is primarily designed to reduce risk or loss caused by defects in title from the past. A loan policy of title insurance protects the interest of the mortgage lender, while an owner’s policy protects the equity of you, the buyer, for as long as you or your heirs (in certain policies) own the real property.
When is the premium due?
You pay for your owner’s title insurance policy only once, at the close of escrow. Who pays for the owner’s policy and loan policy varies depending on local customs.
How title insurance differs.
Unlike other forms of insurance, title insurance emphasizes loss prevention for the insured. Title professionals perform labor-intensive work to find and address title issues that could threaten your homeownership. This upfront analysis gives you, as a policy holder, the peace of mind that your title risk has been effectively reduced. In contrast, insurance based on loss assumption (such as auto or property and casualty insurance) requires little upfront work because claims cannot be predicted or prevented, and premium funds are needed only in the event of an accident or other covered issue. These types of insurance also require annual coverage payments, unlike title insurance which is paid for only once upon the purchase of your home or establishment of a new mortgage.
The importance of title protection.
There are many title issues that could cause you to lose your real property or your mortgage investment. Even the most careful search of public records may not disclose the most dangerous threat: hidden risks. These issues may not be uncovered until years later. Without title insurance from a reputable and financially solvent company, the ownership of your home could be jeopardized.
Here are some examples of title issues that may occur:
Deeds by persons supposedly single, but secretly married.
Deeds in lieu of foreclosure given under duress
Marital rights of spouse purportedly, but not legally, divorced.
Impersonation of the true owner of the land.
Deeds by minors.
Deeds by persons of unsound mind.
Deeds to or from defunct corporations.
Defective acknowledgments by notaries.
Duress in execution of instruments.
Erroneous reports furnished by tax officials.
Forged deeds, releases, etc.
Mistakes in recording legal documents.
Surviving children omitted from will.
Administration of estate of persons absent but not deceased.
Birth or adoption of children after date of will.
Claims of creditors against real property sold by heirs or devisees.
Deed of community property recited to be separate property.
Deeds by foreign parties.
Seller’s Checklist
Prior to Closing:
Provide title company with current loan information so a payoff statement can be ordered from your lender. You will need to provide your Social Security Number and you may be required to sign a form authorizing your lender to provide the payoff to First American Title.
Complete a Confidential Information Statement if you have a common surname. Provide documentation of any change in marital status (divorce, marriage, death) during current ownership. If the property is inherited we will need a copy of the probated will.
Have your Power of Attorney approved prior to closing in the event you will not be present to sign documents.
Required at Closing:
Driver’s License Social Security Number
Bring extra house keys, garage door openers, warranties or operational manuals for appliances (heating, AC, stove, etc.) or let your real estate professional know where in the house they are located.
Avoiding Closing Delays:
Lenders and title insurers may require single owners who have married to have their spouse sign paperwork or a deed at closing. Discuss this with your escrow officer early in the transaction. The Confidential Information Statement should be completed and returned promptly. It will help clarify the identity of the actual person or persons named on judgments in the title search.
After Closing:
Cancel your homeowner’s insurance if you are moving from the property at closing. If you are remaining at the property after closing, you should notify your agent of this change.
Make sure your lender has your forwarding address. The lender will refund monies left in your escrow/impound account and send final paperwork regarding the paid loan.
Keep your final settlement statement with tax documents. You will need it when filing taxes.
Moving Address Change Checklist
Here’s a list of people, businesses and organizations who will need to know you’ve moved to a new location.
The Essentials:
Request a “Change of Address” form at a USPS post office
Friends and family
Financial Institutions:
Banks and credit unions
Credit card companies (including department store cards)
Lenders (mortgage, home equity, auto, student loan)
