Expert
VANESSA BIVENS
I. L. Broker Associate
I’ve spent more than 30 years in nearly every corner of real estate — from owning my own brokerage to leading Coldwell Banker’s top Austin office for two decades. I’m a CRS designee and ranked in the top 5% of El Paso County agents in 2025.
I have a degree in Marketing from Elon University and was an officer in the USMC. My background spans sales, executive management, investment properties, and hands on remodeling. I’ve bought and sold homes across the U.S. and internationally, and I understand how important communication is, especially when clients are navigating repairs, financing, or long distance moves.
For the past twelve years, I’ve loved helping buyers and sellers across Colorado — from first time homeowners to luxury clients and relocating military families. My goal is simple: To prepare and guide you through the complexities of your RE journey with experience and empathy, every step of the way, so you feel confident and supported.
I live in Kissing Camels near Garden of the Gods, serve in the Women’s Club, am Co-President of the KC Garden Club, and play a little pickleball when I can.
DISCLAIMER
This Homebook is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind, either express or implied, including without limitations any warrantees of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. There is no representation of warranty that this information is complete or free from error, and the provider does not assume, and expressly disclaims, any liability to any person or entity for loss or damage caused by errors or omissions in this book.
The information contained in the REiSource report is delivered from your First American Title Insurance Company, who reminds you that you have the right as a consumer to compare fees and serviced levels for Title, Escrow, and all other services associated with property ownership, and to select providers accordingly. Your home is the largest investment you will make in your lifetime and you should demand the very best.
First American, the eagle logo, First American Title, and firstam.com are registered trademarks or trademarks of First American Financial Corporation and/or its affiliates.
Subject Property : 2360 Kittridge Ave Colorado Springs CO 80919
Owner Information
Owner Name : Sparks Zachary Lorne / Sparks Sarah Deanne
Mailing Address : 81 El Dorado Ln, Colorado Springs CO 80919-2622 R037
Owner Occupied Indicator : A
Location Information
Legal Description : Lot 74 Peregrine North Valley Fil No 1 Colo Spgs
County : El Paso, Co
Census Tract / Block : 37.05 / 3
Township-Range- Sect : 13-67-02
Legal Book/Page : C4-173
Legal Lot : 74
Market Area : 29 C1
Last Market Sale Information
Recording/Sale Date : 01/27/2015 / 01/21/2015
APN : 73022-07-007
Subdivision : Peregrine North Valley
Map Reference : 67-02-13 / 29-C1
School District : Academy School No 20
Munic/Township : Academy School No 20
Neighbor Code : 70
1st Mtg Amount/Type : $242,500 / Cnv
Sale Price : $342,500 1st Mtg Document # : 7782
Document # : 7781 1st Mtg Term : 30
Deed Type : Warranty Deed Price Per SqFt : $111.85
Title Company : Empire Title/co Spgs Llc
Lender : Heritagebank Of The South
Seller Name : Podrazik Mark D
Prior Sale Information
Prior Rec/Sale Date : 06/19/2012 / 06/15/2012
Prior Sale Price : $348,000
Prior Doc Number : 70208
Prior Deed Type : Warranty Deed
Prior Lender : Usaa Fsb
Prior 1st Mtg Amt/Type : $278,000 / Conv
Customer Name : De Anna Harwood
Customer Company Name : First American Title Prepared On : 05/22/2026
Property Characteristics
Gross Area : 3,578
Living Area : 3,062
Tot Adj Area : 3,142
Above Grade : 2268
Total Rooms : 12
Bedrooms : 4
Bath(F/H) : 3 / 1
Fireplace : Y / 1
Year Built / Eff : 1990
# of Stories : 2
Property Information
Parking Type : Built-in
Garage Area : 436
Basement Area : 874
Finish Bsmnt Area : FINISHED
Cooling Type : Forced Air
Exterior wall : Wood Siding
Interior Wall : Drywall
Porch Type : Covered Porch
Basement Type : Partial Patio Type : Wood Balcony
Roof Type : Gable
Pool : Hot Tub
Foundation : Concrete Quality : Good
Roof Material : Wood Shake Floor Cover : Hardwood
Construction : Frame
Heat Type : Forced Air
Equipment : Compactor, Kd, La, Lb, Ld, Le, Lj, Lo, Ln, Lq, Lv, Mk, Range Oven, Dishwasher
Land Use : Sfr Zoning : PDZ Lot Size : 7,351
County Use : Single Family Resid Lot Acres : 0.17
Tax Information
Total Value : $646,564 Assessed Year : 2025
Tax : $2,393.27
Land Value : $118,300 Improve % : 82% Tax Rate Area : JCV
Improvement Value : $528,264 Tax Year : 2024 Market Value : $646,564
Total Taxable Value : $45,580
Customer Name : De Anna Harwood Customer Company Name : First American Title Prepared On : 05/22/2026
of Comparables
Sales History
Rec. Date : 01/27/2015 06/19/2012 08/20/1998
Sale Date : 01/21/2015 06/15/2012 08/20/1998
Sale Price : $342,500 $348,000 $234,000
Rec.Doc.No : 7781 70208 118840
Doc. Type : WARRANTY DEED WARRANTY DEED WARRANTY DEED
Sale Price Type : FULL
Buyer : Sparks Zachary L & Sarah D
Podrazik Mark D Cassady Allan R & Pamela S
Seller : Podrazik Mark D Cassady Allan R & Pamela S Mclaughlin Duane A & Maria T
Title Company : Empire Title/co Spgs Llc Land Title Guarantee
Other Doc No :
Mortgage History
1st Mortgage Details
Mtg. Date : 11/12/2021 01/24/2018 01/27/2015 06/19/2012
Mtg. Amt : $210,000 $101,000
Mtg. Doc. No : 209195 8966 7782 70209
Doc. Type : DEED OF TRUST DEED OF TRUST DEED OF TRUST DEED OF TRUST
Loan Type : CONVENTIONAL CONVENTIONAL CONVENTIONAL CONVENTIONAL
Mtg. Rate Type :
Mtg. Term : 30 Years 30 Years 30 Years 30 Years
Mtg. Rate :
Lender : Rocket Mtg Llc Wells Fargo Bk Na Heritagebank Of The South Usaa Fsb
Borrower 1 : Sparks Zachary L Sparks Zachary L Sparks Zachary L Podrazik Mark D
Borrower 2 : Sparks Sarah D Sparks Sarah D Sparks Sarah D
Borrower 3 :
Borrower 4 :
Mtg. Date : 01/30/2009 10/22/2007 09/01/2006 08/08/2005 Mtg. Amt : $260,000 $90,000 $58,000 $40,000
Mtg. Doc. No :
Mtg. Rate Type : ADJUSTABLE INT RATE LOAN FIXED RATE LOAN
Mtg. Term : 30 Years 17 Years 17 Years
Mtg. Rate :
Lender : Jp Morgan Chase Bk E Trade Mtg Corp E Trade Bk E Trade Bk
Borrower 1 : Cassady Allan R Cassady Allan R Cassady Allan R Cassady Allan R
Borrower 2 : Cassady Pamela S Cassady Pamela S Cassady Pamela S Cassady Pamela S
Borrower 3 :
Borrower 4 :
Name : De Anna Harwood
Company Name : First American Title Prepared On : 05/22/2026
Emit Usa, Inc.
Census Tract / block: 37.05 / 3 Year: 2020
SOUTHERN COLORADO
El Paso, Fremont, Teller & Pueblo Counties
SCHOOL DISTRICT:
COLORADO SPRINGS DISTRICT 20
SCHOOL
SCHOOLS: WOODMEN ROBERTS ELEMENTARY
EAGLEVIEW MIDDLE
AIR ACADEMY HIGH
SOUTHERN COLORADO
El
Paso, Fremont, Teller & Pueblo Counties
SCHOOL
SOUTHERN COLORADO
El Paso, Fremont, Teller & Pueblo Counties
PIKES PEAK REGION
SCHOOL
DISTRICTS:
ACADEMY DISTRICT 20
Colorado Springs www.asd20.org
BIG SANDY SCHOOL DISTRICT 100J
Simla www.bigsandy100j.com
CALHAN SCHOOL
DISTRICT RJ-1
Calhan www.calhanschool.org
CAÑON CITY SCHOOLS
FREMONT RE-1
Canon City www.canoncityschools.org
CHEYENNE
MOUNTAIN SCHOOL DISTRICT 12
Colorado Springs www.cmsd12.org
COLORADO SCHOOL FOR THE DEAF AND THE BLIND
Colorado Springs csdb.org
COLORADO SPRINGS
SCHOOL DISTRICT 11
Colorado Springs www.d11.org
COTOPAXI SCHOOL DISTRICT RE-3
Cotopaxi www.cotopaxire3.org
CRIPPLE CREEK-VICTOR
SCHOOL DISTRICT RE-1
Cripple Creek www.ccvschools.com
CUSTER COUNTY
SCHOOL DISTRICT C-1
Westcliffe www.custercountyschools.org
SCHOOL DISTRICT 49
Falcon www.d49.org
EDISON SCHOOL DISTRICT 54 JT
Yoder www.edison54jt.org
ELBERT SCHOOL DISTRICT 200
Elbert www.elbertschool.org
ELLICOTT SCHOOL DISTRICT 22
Ellicott www.ellicottschools.org
FREMONT RE-2 SCHOOL DISTRICT Florence www.re-2.org
FOUNTAIN-FORT CARSON SCHOOL DISTRICT 8
Fountain www.ffc8.org
HANOVER SCHOOL DISTRICT 28
Colorado Springs www.hanoverhornets.org
HARRISON SCHOOL DISTRICT 2
Colorado Springs www.hsd2.org
KIOWA SCHOOL DISTRICT C-2
Kiowa www.kiowaschool.org
LEWIS-PALMER SCHOOL DISTRICT 38
Monument www.lewispalmer.org
MANITOU SPRINGS SCHOOL DISTRICT 14
Manitou Springs www.mssd14.org
MIAMI-YODER SCHOOL DISTRICT 60 JT
Rush www.miamiyoder.com
PEYTON SCHOOL DISTRICT 23 JT
Peyton www.peyton.k12.co.us
PUEBLO SCHOOL DISTRICT 60
Pueblo www.pueblod60.org
PUEBLO COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT 70 Pueblo www.district70.org
WIDEFIELD SCHOOL DISTRICT 3
Colorado Springs www.wsd3.org
WOODLAND PARK
SCHOOL DISTRICT RE-2
Woodland Park www.wpsdk12.org
2025 Final School Performance Framework
9714: Woodmen-Roberts Elementary School | 1040: Academy 20 Grade Levels: E - (1 Year)
Plan Type Official Rating based on SINGLE-YEAR SPF Report
Performance Plan
John Irwin Award
89.1/100 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
ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT
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
2358: Eagleview Middle School | 1040: Academy 20
Plan Type
Performance Plan
-
Grade Levels: M - (1 Year)
Official Rating based on SINGLE-YEAR SPF Report
76.1/100 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
2358: Eagleview Middle School | 1040: Academy 20 Middle School - (1 Year)
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.
Scoring Guide for 2025 District/School Performance Frameworks
0076: Air Academy High School | 1040: Academy 20
Performance Plan
76.8/100
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
Summary of Ratings by EMH Level
(-) 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
0076:
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 Non-English
Not Applicable; (-) No Reportable Data
2025 Final School Performance Framework
0076: Air Academy High School | 1040: Academy 20 High School - (1 Year)
POSTSECONDARY AND WORKFORCE READINESS
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.
Scoring Guide for 2025 District/School Performance Frameworks
Public Schools :
Elementary Schools
Woodmen-roberts Elementary School Distance 0.48 Miles
8365 Orchard Path Road Colorado Springs CO 80919
Telephone : (719) 234-5300
Lowest Grade : Pre-K
Kindergarten : Yes
Enrollment : 381
School District : Academy School District No. 20
Highest Grade : 5th
School Enrollment :
Total Expenditure/Student : 88
Foothills Elementary School Distance 1.71 Miles
825 Allegheny Drive Colorado Springs CO 80919
Telephone : (719) 234-4500
Lowest Grade : K
Kindergarten : Yes
Enrollment : 400
School District : Academy School District No. 20
Highest Grade : 5th
School Enrollment :
Total Expenditure/Student : 88
High Schools
Air Academy High School Distance 1.53 Miles
551 North Frontage Road West Usaf Academy CO 80840
Telephone : (719) 234-2400
Lowest Grade : 9th
School District : Academy School District No. 20
Highest Grade : 12th
School Enrollment : Enrollment : 1380
Total Expenditure/Student : 88
Advanced Placement : No
Customer Name : De Anna Harwood Customer Company Name : First American Title Prepared On : 05/22/2026
HIGHER EDUCATION
State of Colorado
FOUR YEAR INSTITUTIONS:
ADAMS STATE UNIVERSITY
719.587.7011 208 Edgemont Blvd. • Alamosa, 81101 www.adams.edu
COLORADO CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY
303.963.3000 8787 W Alameda Ave. • Lakewood, 80226 www.ccu.edu
*COLORADO COLLEGE
(719) 389-6344
14 E Cache La Poudre St. Colorado Springs, 80903 coloradocollege.edu/visit
COLORADO MESA
UNIVERSITY
970.248.1020 1100 North Ave. • Grand Junction, 81501 coloradomesa.edu
*COLORADO SCHOOL OF MINES
303.273.3000
1500 Illinois St. • Golden, 80401 www.mines.edu
*COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY (CSU) (970) 491-1111 711 Oval Drive, Fort Collins CO 80521 www.colostate.edu
*COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY - PUEBLO
719.549.2100
SCHOOL
2200 Bonforte Blvd. • Pueblo, 81001 www.csupueblo.edu
COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY GLOBAL
800-462-7845 or 720-279-0159
555 17th St., Ste. 1000 Denver, CO 80202 www.csuglobal.edu
*COLORADO TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY (CTU)
855.227.0555
1575 Garden of the Gods Rd. #100 Colorado Springs, 80907 www.coloradotech.edu
COLUMBIA COLLEGEDENVER
303.771.0176
15500 E. Centretech Pkwy. Aurora, 80011 www.ccis.edu
DEVRY UNIVERSITY
303.280.7400
1870 W 122nd Ave. Westminster, 80234 www.devry.edu
*FORT LEWIS COLLEGE
877.352.2656
1000 Rim Dr. • Durango, 81301 www.fortlewis.edu
METROPOLITAN STATE UNIVERSITY OF DENVER
303.556.5740
890 Auraria Pkwy. • Denver, 80204 www.msudenver.edu
NAZARENE BIBLE COLLEGE
719.884.5000
2020 N Academy Blvd Colorado Springs, 80909 www.nbc.edu
NAROPA UNIVERSITY
800-772-6951
2130 Arapahoe Ave. • Boulder, 80302 www.naropa.edu
*REGIS UNIVERSITY
800.388.2366
3333 Regis Blvd. • Denver, 80221 www.regis.edu
ROCKY MOUNTAIN COLLEGE OF ART & DESIGN
303.753.6046
1600 Pierce St. • Lakewood, 80214 www.rmcad.edu
UNITED STATES AIR FORCE ACADEMY
(719) 333-2025
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
First American Title Market Update
Colorado Springs, CO 80919
Single-Family Homes
This week the median list price for Colorado Springs, CO 80919 is $704,500 with the market action index hovering around 44. This is less than last month's market action index of 45. Inventory has increased to 58.
Market Action Index
Slight Seller's Advantage Market Narrative
While the Market Action Index shows some strengthening in the last few weeks, prices have not seemed to move from their plateau. Should the upward trend in sales relative to inventory continue, expect prices to resume an upward climb in tandem with the MAI.
Market Segments
Each segment below represents approximately 25% of the market ordered by price.
Slight Seller's Advantage
Local Banks
Neighboring Towns and Cities
Employment and Retirement
City Hall
Schools
Demographics
Travel and Passport Facilities • Transportation Modes
Leisure and Activities •Vehicle Permits and Licenses
Social Benefits
COLORADO Southern Colorado
SPORTS:
CSU PUEBLO THUNDERWOLVES – COLLEGE ATHLETICS
For schedules, tickets, and more information: gothunderwolves.com
AIR FORCE ACADEMY FALCONS – COLLEGE ATHLETICS
For schedules, tickets and more info: goairforcefalcons.com
SOCO BASKETBALL –YOUTH BASKETBALL LEAGUES & CAMPS
For league schedules, registration, camps, and more info: socobball.com
PARKS & RECREATION:
GARDEN OF THE GODS VISITOR & NATURE CENTER
1805 N 30th St
Colorado Springs, CO 80904 (719) 634-6666 GARDENOFGODS.COM
GREAT SAND DUNES NATIONAL PARK & PRESERVE
11999 State Highway 150 Mosca, CO 81146 719-378-6395 • nps.gov/grsa
THE BROADMOOR SEVEN FALLS
1045 Lower Gold Camp Rd
Colorado Springs, CO 80905 (855) 923-7272 sevenfalls.com
CAVE OF THE WINDS MOUNTAIN PARK
100 Cave of the Winds Rd
Manitou Springs, CO 80829 (719) 685-5444 caveofthewinds.com
PALMER PARK
3650 Maizeland Rd
Colorado Springs, CO 80909 (719) 385-5940 coloradosprings.gov
CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN STATE PARK
410 JL Ranch Heights
Colorado Springs, CO 80926 cpw.state.co.us
MEMORIAL PARK
1605 E Pikes Peak Ave
Colorado Springs, CO 80909 (719) 385-5940 coloradosprings.gov
MOUNT CUTLER TRAIL
2120 N Cheyenne Canyon Rd
Colorado Springs, CO 80906 (719) 385-6086 cheyennecanon.org
UTE VALLEY PARK
1705 Vindicator Dr Colorado Springs, CO 80919 (719) 385-5940 coloradosprings.gov
STARSMORE VISITOR AND NATURE CENTER
2120 S Cheyenne Canyon Rd
Colorado Springs, CO 80906 (719) 385-6086 coloradosprings.gov
BEAR CREEK NATURE CENTER
245 Bear Creek Rd
Colorado Springs, CO 80906 (719) 520-6387 communityservices.elpasoco.com
MONUMENT VALLEY PARK
170 W Cache La Poudre St
Colorado Springs, CO 80903 (719) 385-5940 coloradosprings.gov
MANITOU LAKE PICNIC AREA
Highway 67 Woodland Park, CO 80863 719-636-1602 fs.usda.gov
AIKEN CANYON PRESERVE
3350 Turkey Canyon Ranch Rd
Colorado Springs, CO 80926 (719) 576-4336 nature.org
AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL PARK
126 Cimino Dr
Colorado Springs, CO 80903 (719) 385-5940 coloradosprings.gov
RED CANYON PARK
County Road F24 Canon City, CO 81212 (719) 269-9028
LAKE PUEBLO COLORADO STATE PARK, CO
640 Pueblo Reservoir Rd Pueblo, CO 81005 (719) 561-9320
COLORADO SoCo
PARKS & RECREATION
CONT:
PIKES PEAK - AMERICA’S MOUNTAIN
5089 Pikes Peak Highway Cascade, CO 80809
Attractions site lists for GPS, and kept the City of Colorado Springs site as the primary visitor/ticket source. The City currently notes timed-entry permits are required for vehicles traveling past Mile 7 from May 22 through Sept. 30, 2026 (719) 385-7325 coloradosprings.gov
FLORISSANT FOSSIL BEDS
NATIONAL MONUMENT
15807 Teller County Road 1 Florissant, CO 80816 nps.gov/flfo
LEADVILLE & TWIN LAKES
Leadville Visitor Center at 460 Harrison Ave
Leadville, CO 80461 (719) 486-1229 leadvilletwinlakes.com/natural-attractions-detail/twin-lakes
TRINIDAD LAKE STATE PARK
32610 HIGHWAY 12 TRINIDAD, CO 81082 (719) 846-6951 cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/parks/Trinidadlake
SANCTUARIES & ZOOS:
COLORADO WOLF & WILDLIFE CENTER
4729 Twin Rocks Rd. Divide, CO 80814 (719) 687-9742 wolfeducation.org
PUEBLO ZOO
3455 Nuckolls Ave. Pueblo, CO 81005 (719) 561-1452 pueblozoo.org
CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN ZOO
4250 Cheyenne Mtn. Zoo Road Colorado Springs, CO 80906 (719) 633-9925 cmzoo.org
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT:
THE NORTH POLE –SANTA’S WORKSHOP
5050 Pikes Peak Hwy Cascade, CO 80809 (719) 684-9432 northpolecolorado.com
COLORADO SPRINGS FINE ARTS CENTER AT COLORADO COLLEGE
30 West Dale St.
Colorado Springs, CO 80903 (719) 634-5581 fac.coloradocollege.edu
WESTERN MUSEUM OF MINING & INDUSTRY
225 N Gate Blvd
Colorado Springs, CO 80921 (719) 488-0880 wmmi.org
COLORADO SPRINGS PIONEERS MUSEUM
215 S Tejon St
Colorado Springs, CO 80903 (719) 385-5990 cspm.org
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF WORLD WAR II AVIATION
775 Aviation Way
Colorado Springs, CO 80916 (719) 637-7559 worldwariiaviation.org
PETERSON AIR & SPACE MUSEUM
150 E Ent Ave
Colorado Springs, CO 80914 (719) 556-4915 petemuseum.org
COLORADO RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL
650 Perry Park Ave
Larkspur, CO 80118 (303) 688-6010 coloradorenaissance.com
PUEBLO NEON ALLEY
Union Avenue Historic District Near 125 W B St Pueblo, CO 81003
For visitor information, public art, and more information: visitpueblo.org
SOUTHERN COLORADO
El Paso County EL PASO COUNTY: www.elpasoco.com
ELECTED OFFICIALS & PUBLIC OFFICES
ASSESSOR
Mark Flutcher 719.520.6600
CLERK AND RECORDER
Steve Schleiker 719.520.6202
CORONER
Dr. Emily Russell-Kinsley 719.390.2450
COUNTY COMMISSIONER (DISTRICT 1)
Holly Williams 719.520.6411
COUNTY COMMISSIONER (DISTRICT 2)
Carrie Geitner 719.520.6412
COUNTY COMMISSIONER (DISTRICT 3)
Bill Wysong 719.520.6413
COUNTY COMMISSIONER (DISTRICT 4)
Cory Applegate 719.520.6414
COUNTY COMMISSIONER (DISTRICT 5)
Lauren Nelson 719.520.6415
DISTRICT ATTORNEY (4TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT)
Michael J. Allen 719.520.6000
SHERIFF
Joseph Roybal 719.520.7100
SURVEYOR
Surveyor’s Office 719.520.7201
TREASURER AND PUBLIC TRUSTEE
Chuck Broerman 719.520.7900
EL PASO COUNTY COURTHOUSE & GOVERNMENT CENTER:
EL PASO COUNTY JUDICIAL BUILDING
719.452.5000
270 S. Tejon St. • Colorado Springs, 80903
CENTENNIAL HALL
200 S. Cascade Ave. • Colorado Springs, CO 80903
CITIZENS SERVICE CENTER
1675 W. Garden of the Gods Rd. Colorado Springs, CO 80907
EL PASO COUNTY
MOTOR VEHICLE: clerkandrecorder.elpasoco.com 719.520.6240
MAIN OFFICE - CITIZENS SERVICE CENTER
1675 W. Garden of the Gods Rd. Colorado Springs, 80907
SOUTHEAST - POWERS BRANCH
5650 Industrial Place Colorado Springs, 80916
NORTH - UNION TOWN CENTER BRANCH
8830 N Union Blvd. Colorado Springs, 80920
FORT CARSON BRANCH
6351 Wetzel Ave., Bldg 1525 Fort Carson, 80913
EL PASO COUNTY LIBRARIES:
PIKES PEAK LIBRARY DISTRICT ppld.org
719.531.6333, option 3
CALHAN
719.531.6333 x7013
600 Bank St. • Calhan, 80808
CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN
719.531.6333 x7001
1785 S. 8th St. #100 Colorado Springs, 80905
EAST
719.531.6333 x7014
5550 N Union Blvd. Colorado Springs, 80918
FOUNTAIN
719.531.6333 x7002
230 S. Main St. • Fountain, 80817
HIGH PRAIRIE
719.531.6333 x7003
7035 Old Meridian Rd. • Falcon, 80831
LIBRARY 21C
719.531.6333 x7012
1175 Chapel Hills Dr. Colorado Springs, 80920
MANITOU SPRINGS
719.531.6333 x7004
701 Manitou Ave. Manitou Springs, 80829
MANITOU SPRINGS
719.531.6333 x7004
701 Manitou Ave.
Manitou Springs, CO 80829
For a full list of locations, visit: ppld.org
SOUTHERN COLORADO
El Paso County
EL PASO COUNTY:
El Paso County is a county located in the U.S. state of Colorado. El Paso County, Colorado Population 2024 747,834 El Paso County, Colorado ‘s estimated 2024 population is 747,834 with a growth rate of 0.49% in the past year according to the most recent United States census data.
HISTORY
In July 1858, gold was discovered along the South Platte River in Arapahoe County, Kansas Territory. This discovery precipitated the Pike’s Peak Gold Rush. Many residents of the mining region felt disconnected from the remote territorial governments of Kansas and Nebraska, so they voted to form their own Territory of Jefferson on October 24, 1859. The following month, the Jefferson Territorial Legislature organized 12 counties for the new territory including El Paso County. El Paso County was named for the Spanish language name for Ute Pass north of Pikes Peak. Colorado City served as the county seat of El Paso County.
The Jefferson Territory never received federal sanction, but on February 28, 1861, U.S. President James Buchanan signed an act organizing the Territory of Colorado. El Paso County was one of the original 17 counties created by the Colorado legislature on November 1, 1861. Part of its western territory was broken off to create Teller County in 1899. Originally based in Old Colorado City (now part of Colorado Springs, not today’s Colorado City between Pueblo and Walsenburg), El Paso County’s county seat was moved to Colorado Springs in 1873.
GEOGRAPHY
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 2,130 square miles (5,500 km2), of which 2,127 square miles (5,510 km2) are land and 2.7 square miles (7.0 km2) (0.1%) are covered by water.
ADJACENT COUNTIES
Douglas County - north Elbert County - northeast Lincoln County - east Crowley County - southeast Pueblo County - south Fremont County - west Teller County - west
NATIONAL PROTECTED AREA
Pike National Forest
STATE PROTECTED AREA
Cheyenne Mountain State Park
HISTORIC SITES
Pikes Peak National Historic Landmark USAFA Cadet Area National Historic District Old Colorado City (National Register of Historic Districts)Manitou Springs (National Register of Historic Districts)
SOUTHERN COLORADO
El Paso County
EL PASO COUNTY Cont...
GOVERNMENT
El Paso County is governed by a board of county commissioners. In 2004, the voters of Colorado Springs and El Paso County established the Pikes Peak Rural Transportation Authority (PPRTA) and adopted a 1% sales tax dedicated to improving the region’s transportation infrastructure. Together with state funding for COSMIX (2007 completion) and the I-25 interchange with Highway 16 (2008 completion), significant progress has been made since 2003 in addressing the transportation needs of the area. In 2012, the county voted to legalize marijuana. On March 12, 2019, the county commissioners unanimously passed a resolution to become a Second Amendment sanctuary.
The Colorado Department of Corrections has its headquarters in an unincorporated area in the county.
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 Street, Denver, CO 80204 denverbroncos.com
DENVER NUGGETS
Ball Arena
1000 Chopper Cir., Denver, CO 80204 nba.com/nuggets
COLORADO AVALANCHE
Ball Arena
1000 Chopper Cir., Denver, CO 80204 avalanche.nhl.com
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
COLORADO MAMMOTH Ball Arena
1000 Chopper Cir., Denver, CO 80204 coloradomammoth.com
UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO cubuffs.com
DENVER UNIVERSITY denverpioneers.com
NATIONAL BALLPARK MUSEUM
1940 Blake Street – Denver, CO (303) 974-5835 ballparkmuseum.com
NORTHERN COLORADO
COLORADO EAGLES
Blue FCU Arena 5290 Arena Cir., Loveland, CO 80538 coloradoeagles.com
NORTHERN COLORADO HAILSTORM FC
Future Legends Complex 950 Owlz Way, Windsor, CO, 80550 hailstormfc.com
COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY csurams.com
UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN COLORADO - BEARS uncbears.com
COLORADO NATIONAL SPEEDWAY
4281 Speedway Blvd., Dacono, CO 80514 coloradospeedway.com
SOUTHERN COLORADO
COLORADO SPRINGS SWITCHBACKS FC Weidner Field 111 W. Cimarron St., Colorado Springs, CO 80903 • switchbacksfc.com
AIR FORCE ACADEMY goairforcefalcons.com
PIKES PEAK INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY
16650 Midway Ranch Rd., Fountain, CO 80817 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
303.832.4092
1340 Pennsylvania St., Denver, CO 80203 • mollybrown.org
COLORADO RAILROAD MUSEUM
303.279.4591
17155 W. 44th Ave., Golden, CO 80403 visitgolden.com
FORNEY MUSEUM OF TRANSPORTATION
303.297.1113
4303 Brighton Blvd., Denver, CO 80216 forneymuseum.com
COLORADO
MUSEUMS Cont.
MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART
303.298.7554
1485 Delgany St., Denver, CO 80202 mcadenver.org
THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF DENVER
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 1/2 Lookout Mountain Rd, Golden, CO 80401• buffalobill.org
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 CO-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, 80302 bmoca.org
WINGS OVER THE ROCKIES AIR & SPACE MUSEUM
303.360.5360
7711 E Academy Blvd., Denver, CO 80230 • wingsmuseum.org
AMERICAN MOUNTAINEERING MUSEUM
303.996.2747
710 10th St., Golden, CO 80401 mountaineeringmuseum.org
NORTHERN COLORADO
FORT COLLINS MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY
970.221.6738
408 Mason Ct., Fort Collins, CO 80524 fcmod.org
LOVELAND MUSEUM
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
FORT COLLINS MUSEUM OF ART
970.482.2787
201 S College Ave., Ft. Collins, CO 80524 moafc.org
GREELEY HISTORY MUSEUM
970.350.9220
714 8th St., Greeley, CO 80631 greeleymuseums.com/locations/greeley-history-museum
SOUTHERN COLORADO
MANITOU CLIFF DWELLINGS
719.685.5242
10 Cliff Rd., Manitou Springs, CO 80829 cliffdwellingsmuseum.com
FINE ARTS CENTER
719.634.5581
30 W Dale St., Colorado Springs, CO 80903 • fac.coloradocollege.edu
PRORODEO HALL OF FAME & MUSEUM
719.528.4764
103 Pro Rodeo Dr., Colorado Springs, 80919 prorodeohalloffame.com
U.S. OLYMPIC 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 Brighton, CO
CHERRY CREEK Aurora, CO
ELDORADO CANYON Boulder, CO
COLORADO
STATE PARKS cont.
CASTLEWOOD CANYON
Franktown, CO
ROXBOROUGH
Littleton, CO
CHATFIELD
Littleton, CO
GOLDEN GATE CANYON
Golden, CO
NORTHERN COLORADO
STATE FOREST
Walden, CO
BOYD LAKE
Loveland, CO
LORY
Fort Collins, CO
ST. VRAIN
Firestone, CO
SOUTHERN COLORADO
CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN
Colorado Springs, CO
LAKE PUEBLO
Pueblo, CO
MUELLER
Colorado Springs, CO
OTHER PARKS:
DENVER METRO
RED ROCKS PARK AND AMPHITHEATRE
720.865.2494
18300 W Alameda Pkwy., Morrison, CO 80465 • redrocksonline.com
SOUTHERN COLORADO
GARDEN OF THE GODS
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 CO RD 3A, Cañon City, CO 81212 royalgorgebridge.com
SANCTUARIES
& ZOOS: DENVER METRO
DENVER ZOO
720.337.1400
2300 Steele St., Denver, CO 80205 denverzoo.org
DENVER AQUARIUM
303.561.4450
700 Water St., Denver, CO 80211 aquariumrestaurants.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 CO RD 53, Keenesburg, CO 80643 wildanimalsanctuary.org
SOUTHERN COLORADO
CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN ZOO
719.633.9925
4250 Cheyenne Mtn. Zoo Road 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
303.595.4386
2000 Elitch Cir., Denver, CO 80204 elitchgardens.com
WATER WORLD
303.427.7873
8801 N Pecos St., Federal Heights, CO 80260 • waterworldcolorado.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
NORTH POLE CO SANTA’S WORKSHOP
719.684.9432
5050 Pikes Peak Highway, Cascade, CO 80809 • northpolecolorado.com
TOURS:
DENVER METRO
UNITED STATES MINT
303.572.9500/tour info 303.405.4761
320 W. Colfax Ave., Denver, CO 80204 usmint.gov
COLORADO STATE CAPITOL BUILDING
303.866.2604
200 E. Colfax Ave., Denver, CO 80203 capitol.colorado.gov
HAMMOND’S CANDIES
303.333.5588
5735 Washington St., Denver, CO 80216 hammondscandies.com
COORS BREWERY TOUR
303.277.2337
502 14th Street, Golden, CO 80401 millercoors.com
CELESTIAL SEASONINGS FACTORY TOUR
303.581.1484
4600 Sleepytime Dr., Boulder, CO 80301 celestialseasonings.com
PERFOMING ARTS:
DENVER METRO
DENVER CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS
303.893.4100
1101 13th St., Denver, CO 80204 denvercenter.org
ARVADA CENTER
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
719.477.2100
190 S Cascade Ave., Colorado Springs, CO 80903 • pikespeakcenter.com
MISC. ATTRACTIONS:
DENVER METRO
DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS
720.865.3500
1007 N 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
PIKES PEAK COG RAILWAY
719.685.5401
515 Ruxton Ave., Manitou Springs, CO 80829 • cograilway.com
(Call for hours)
COLORADO
SKI RESORTS:
ARAPAHOE BASIN SKI AREA
970.468.0718 arapahoebasin.com
ASPEN MOUNTAIN
970.923.1227 aspensnowmass.com
BEAVER CREEK RESORT
970.754.4636 beavercreek.com
BLUE SKY BASIN
970.754.8245 vail.com
BRECKENRIDGE SKI RESORT
970.453.5000 breckenridge.com
BUTTERMILK SKI RESORT
855.496.9219 aspensnowmass.com
COPPER MOUNTAIN RESORT
970.968.3025 coppercolorado.com
CRESTED BUTTE MOUNTAIN RESORT
970.251.7021 skicb.com
ECHO MOUNTAIN echomtn.com
ELDORA MOUNTAIN RESORT
303.440.8700 eldora.com
HESPERUS SKI AREA
970.385.2199 ski-hesperus.com
HOWELSEN HILL SKI AREA
970.879.8499 steamboatsprings.net
KENDALL MOUNTAIN
970.387.5522 skikendall.com
KEYSTONE RESORT
970.754.0001 keystoneresort.com
LOVELAND SKI AREA
720.405.6455 skiloveland.com
MONARCH MOUNTAIN
719.530.5000 skimonarch.com
POWDERHORN RESORT
970.268.5700 powderhorn.com
PURGATORY RESORT
800.525.0892 purgatory.ski
SILVERTON MOUNTAIN
970.387.5706 silvertonmountain.com
SKI COOPER
719.486.2277 skicooper.com
STEAMBOAT SKI RESORT
970.879.6111 steamboat.com
SUNLIGHT MOUNTAIN RESORT
970.945.7491 sunlightmtn.com
TELLURIDE SKI RESORT
800.778.8581 tellurideskiresort.com
VAIL MOUNTAIN RESORT
970.476.3600 vailresorts.com
WINTER PARK SKI RESORT
970.726.5514 winterparkresort.com
WOLF CREEK SKI AREA
970.264.5639 wolfcreekski.com
GRANDBY RANCH
888.850.4615 granbyranch.com
SNOWMASS gosnowmass.com
ASPEN HIGHLANDS
800-525-6200 aspensnowmass.com
RESORTS, SNOW REPORT AND PASSES VISIT: coloradoski.com
COLORADO
• Colorado contains 75% of the land area of the U.S. with an altitude over 10,000 feet.
• Colfax avenue is the longest continuous street in America.
• Every year Denver hosts the worlds largest rodeo, the Western Stock Show.
• Denver has the largest city park system in the nation with 205 parks in the city limits and 20,000 acres of parks in nearby mountains.
• Colorado has more microbreweries per capita than any other state.
• The highest suspension bridge in the world is over the Royal Gorge near Canon City. The Royal Gorge Bridge span the Arkansas River at a height of 1,053 feet.
• The world’s largest natural hot springs pool is located in Glenwood Springs.
• “Beulah red” is the name of the red marble that gives the Colorado State Capitol its distinctive splendor. Cutting, polishing and installing the marble in the Capitol took six years from 1894 to 1900. All of the Beulah red marble in the world went into the Capitol.
• The highest paved road in North America is the road to Mt. Evans off of I-70 from Idaho Springs. The road climbs up to14,258 feet above sea level.
• The United States Federal Government owns more than 1/3 of the land in Colorado.
• The 13th step of the state capitol building in Denver is exactly one mile high above sea level.
• The Dwight Eisenhower Memorial Tunnel between Clear Creek & Summit counties is the highest auto tunnel in the world. Bored at an elevation of 11,000 feet under the Continental Divide, it is 8,960 feet long and the average daily traffic exceeds 26,000 vehicles.
• Katherine Lee Bates wrote “America the Beautiful” after being inspired by the views from Pikes Peak.
• In Denver, you can attend sporting events for the NFL (Broncos), MLB (Rockies), NHL (Avalanche), and the NBA (Nuggets) all within a three-mile radius!
• Colorado was the first state to legalize the recreational use of marijuana in 2012.
COLORADO
• The highest point in Colorado is Mount Elbert at 14,433 feet
• The Dwight Eisenhower Memorial Tunnel between Clear Creek and Summit counties is the highest auto tunnel in the United States. “When originally opened in the 1970s, the tunnel was not only the highest vehicular tunnel in the US, but at that time it was also the highest in the world. Since then, higher tunnels have been built across the globe,” the Colorado Department of Transportation said.
• Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous U.S. highway, leaves Rocky Mountain National Park on the east and soars to 12,183 feet as it crosses the Continental Divide to the Western Slope. The highest paved road in North America is the road to Mount Evans off of I-70 from Idaho Springs. The road climbs up to 14,258 feet above sea level.
• Colorado has the highest mean altitude of all the states.
• Louis E. Ballast invented the cheeseburger in 1935 at his restaurant, the Humpty Dumpty Barrel Drive In, in Denver.
• Four-state corner - Colorado’s southwest corner is the only place in the United States where the corners of four states meet: Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah.
• Colorado River - The river was named by Spanish explorers for its muddy, red hue, which means “colored red” in Spanish.
• Colorado Trail - This 500-mile hiking trail runs from Durango to Denver, crossing five river systems, six wilderness areas, seven national forests, and eight mountain ranges.
• Denver records an average of over 300 days of sunshine per year--more than San Diego or Miami Beach.
• At an elevation of 5,280 feet, Denver is nicknamed the “Mile High City” because it sits exactly one mile above sea level.
• The U.S. Air Force Academy was built in Colorado Springs in 1958.
• Jolly Rancher Candies started in Golden, also home to Coors Brewery.
COLORADO
ADMISSION TO STATEHOOD: August 1, 1876
AREA:
Colorado has a total of 104,100 Sq. Miles (8th largest in the US)
HIGHEST POINT: Mt. Elbert; 14,433 feet
LARGEST CITY: Denver
LOWEST POINT: Arikaree River; 3,315 feet
MAJOR INDUSTRIES:
Agriculture (wheat, cattle, sheep), Tourism(especially skiers), Mining (gold, silver), Oil, Finance, and Manufacturing
ORIGIN OF THE NAME “COLORADO:”
The word Colorado is spanish for “color red” and refers to the muddy Colorado River
POPULATION:
5,914,181 (2024 estimate)
STATE ABBREVIATION: CO
STATE ANIMAL: Rocky Mountain Big Horn Sheep
STATE BIRD: Lark Bunting
STATE CAPITAL: Denver
STATE DANCE: Square Dance
STATE FISH: Greenback Cutthroat Trout
STATE FLOWER: Rocky Mountain Columbine
STATE FOSSIL: Stegosaurus
STATE GEMSTONE: Aquamarine
STATE GRASS: Blue Grama Grass
STATE INSECT: Colorado Hairstreak Butterfly
STATE MOTO: Nil sine Numine (“Nothing Without Divine Will or Providence”)
STATE NICKNAME: Centennial State / Colorful Colorado
STATE SOIL: Seitz
STATE SONG: “Where the Columbines Grow”
STATE TREE: Blue Spruce
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.
Buyer consummates loan, executes settlement documents, & deposits funds via wire transfer.
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)
Insurance companies (health, renters, auto, home, medical, dental, disability, life)
Retirement (pension plans, 401K, retirement accounts, Social Security, Veterans Affairs)
Investments (investment agencies and brokers)
Utilities:
Phone services (cellular, land line)
Electric
Heating Oils (gas, oil, propane or other fuels)
Water (water delivery, water treatment)
Sewer
Waste Disposal
Internet (land line, wi-fi and satellite)
Television (cable or satellite TV)
Government Offices:
Department of Motor Vehicles
IRS
Passport Office
Veteran Affairs
Unemployment Office (if you are currently receiving unemployment benefits)
Jobs:
Notify the Human Resources department
Update your personal marketing materials (business cards, websites, resumes)
Employment agencies (temp agencies and recruiters)
Professional Memberships (licensing and certification boards)
Past employers (for W-2)
Health:
Physicians (doctors, dentists, optometrists, etc.)
Pharmacies
Health insurers (HMOs, DMOs, agencies and brokers)
Service Providers:
Cable company
Phone company
Housecleaning services
Delivery services
Accountants
Childcare (day-care center, baby sitters)
Lawn care service
Veterinarian (including pet groomer, pet sitters, and microchip service)
Pool services
Lawyers
Automobile:
Auto insurers (insurance agencies and brokers)
Auto lenders (car dealership, bank or loan place)
Department of Motor Vehicles (changing your vehicle registration)
Membership clubs (AAA or similar)
Parking permits
Warranty (if a car warranty is still in place)
Toll pass (Fast Lane, EZ Pass)
Memberships:
House of worship (churches, synagogues, mosques)
Health clubs
Community groups (PTA, neighborhood associations, civic clubs)
Children’s extracurricular activities (dance classes, music lessons, sport clubs)
Social clubs, community centers
Subscriptions:
Newspapers
Magazines (The USPS will only forward magazine subscriptions for two months)
Movie subscriptions (streaming services or other)
Book and music clubs
Mail order houses
Other:
Air miles reward program
Register to vote!
Update personal websites
Children’s schools
