Issuu

BOULDER COUNTY

SEPTEMBER 2026

Christy Hepp

2 • September 2026

Boulder County Real Producers • 3

2 • September 2026

Boulder County Real Producers • 3

Contents 18

Ben Smith

Christy Hepp

CHECK OUT OUR

EV E N T PAG E

COVER STORY

for upcoming events!

PROFILES

14 Solar Service of Colorado

IN THIS ISSUE 6 Preferred Partners 8 Meet The Team 10 Top Producer: Christy Hepp 14 Partner Insight: Solar Service of Colorado 18 REALTOR® to Know: Ben Smith 22 Partner Profile: Exploring Excellence in Home Inspections 28 5 Bathroom Features That Could Turn Off Future Homebuyers 30 Health And Longevity

If you are interested in contributing or nominating REALTORS for certain stories, please email us at john.mendez@n2co.com. 4 • September 2026

DETAILS & TICKETS

Rick Steves’ Europe: A Symphonic Journey Friday, October 9th at 7:30 p.m. 1820 15th St • Boulder, CO Boulder Symphony performs a selection of stirring 19th-century anthems by Romantic-era composers. The first nine pieces each feature a different nationality, while the finale, Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy” (Europe’s official anthem), pays homage to the continent’s motto of “United in Diversity.” A surprise encore then celebrates a happy cultural homecoming back in the USA. And to help make the concert an unforgettable journey, each piece is accompanied by beautiful and evocative video images from the public television series Rick Steves’ Europe.

Boulder County Real Producers • 5

Contents 18

Ben Smith

Christy Hepp

CHECK OUT OUR

EV E N T PAG E

COVER STORY

for upcoming events!

PROFILES

14 Solar Service of Colorado

If you are interested in contributing or nominating REALTORS for certain stories, please email us at john.mendez@n2co.com. 4 • September 2026

DETAILS & TICKETS

Boulder County Real Producers • 5

Preferred Partners This section has been created to give you easier access when searching for a trusted real estate affiliate. Take a minute to familiarize yourself with the businesses sponsoring your magazine. These local businesses are proud to partner with you and make this magazine possible. Please support these businesses and thank them for supporting the REALTOR® community!

ARCHITECT/BUILDER Rodwin Architecture Scott Rodwin (303) 413-8556 929 Pearl St. Ste. 250, Boulder, CO 80302 RodwinArch.com Sheffield Homes (303) 420-0056 www.sheffieldhomes.com DEVELOPER Baseline, Broomfield baselinecolorado.com FLOORING & TILE Right This Way Flooring Randi Pilon (303) 951-5575 2525 Arapahoe Ave, E34 Boulder, CO 80302 www.RightThisWayFlooring.com HOME BUILDERS David Weekley Homes (407) 902-1838 davidweekleyhomes.com/new-homes/co

INTERIOR DESIGN Thrive Design (970) 688-0886 www.thrivedesign.co MOVING COMPANY Wall to Wall Moving (310) 488-1807 www.wallmovingservices.com PAINTER Paint EZ (720) 600-7030 paintEZ.com/boulder RADON MITIGATION Mile High Radon Control (720) 220-4063 www.milehighradoncontrol.com

TITLE INSURANCE First American Title Insurance Company (303) 449-8442 3005 Center Green Dr, Ste 200 Boulder, CO 80301 FirstAmColorado.com WINDOW CLEANING Shine (303) 554-9281 shine-windowcleaning.com/location/boulder/ WINDOW SERVICES KV Windows (720) 535-9629 kvwindowsinc.com

SOLAR INSPECTION Solar Service of Colorado (303) 551-6358 solarserviceofcolorado.com/ TITLE COMPANY Elite Title Company LLC (303) 834-3901 elitetitlecolo.com

Give the gift of

MUSIC

HOME INSPECTION Inspections Over Coffee Bryan Zenner (720) 845-5282 InspectionsOverCoffee.com Pillar To Post Home Inspectors - The Rounds Team (303) 772-1997 roundsteam.pillartopost.com HOME PREPARATION SERVICES HOMEStretch (720) 404-6485 www.home-stretch.com/north-denver

By supporting the Boulder Symphony Music Academy’s 2025–2026 donation drive, you directly support music education, scholarships, and vibrant community programs. Your generosity helps nurture aspiring musicians, provides financial assistance to those in need, and brings the joy of music to people of all ages throughout our community.

Every contribution matters. Donate today! 4730 Table Mesa Dr. Suite l-300 Boulder. CO 80305 720-328-8286 bouldersymphony.org/lessons 6 • September 2026

Boulder County Real Producers • 7

SOLAR INSPECTION Solar Service of Colorado (303) 551-6358 solarserviceofcolorado.com/ TITLE COMPANY Elite Title Company LLC (303) 834-3901 elitetitlecolo.com

Give the gift of

MUSIC

Every contribution matters. Donate today! 4730 Table Mesa Dr. Suite l-300 Boulder. CO 80305 720-328-8286 bouldersymphony.org/lessons 6 • September 2026

Boulder County Real Producers • 7

Meet The Team John Mendez Publisher

john.mendez@n2co.com 303-596-1685

Kim Ash Associate Editor

ads.rpboulder@n2co.com

Elizabeth McCabe Writer

Beth.McCabe@n2co.com

If you are interested in contributing or nominating REALTORS® for certain stories, please email us at john.mendez@n2co.com. Dr. Felicia Santelli Writer: Health & Longevity drsantellifelicia@gmail.com

Nicole Taylor Photography Photographer nicole.liskey@gmail.com

DISCLAIMER: The articles and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the respective authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of The N2 Company d/b/a Real Producers (“N2”). Advertisements appearing in this publication are paid placements and are not endorsed or recommended by N2. N2 is not responsible for the statements, opinions, or business practices of any authors, contributors, or advertisers featured herein. Portions of this publication may include content created with the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) tools by authors or contributors and may not be independently verified by N2.

Elevating the

CLOSING EXPERIENCE We offer a wide range of title services, including title searches, title insurance, and escrow services. Our team is dedicated to providing the highest level of service to our clients.

www.elitetitlecolo.com | 303.834.3901 8 • September 2026

Boulder County Real Producers • 9

Meet The Team John Mendez Publisher

john.mendez@n2co.com 303-596-1685

Kim Ash Associate Editor

ads.rpboulder@n2co.com

Elizabeth McCabe Writer

Beth.McCabe@n2co.com

Nicole Taylor Photography Photographer nicole.liskey@gmail.com

Elevating the

www.elitetitlecolo.com | 303.834.3901 8 • September 2026

Boulder County Real Producers • 9

TOP PRODUCER

Christy

BUILT BEFORE SUNRISE:

RAISED ON THE FA R M . B U I LT F O R R E A L E S TAT E .

HEPP

BY ELIZABETH MCCABE • PHOTOS BY NICOLE TAYLOR PHOTOGRAPHY

Before there were contracts, there were chores. Long before Colorado Native Christy Hepp became one of the state’s most trusted real estate professionals, she was growing up on her family’s crop farm in Colorado, where mornings began before sunrise and work came before everything else. She gathered eggs, fed cattle, and, during one unforgettable summer in college, worked as her father’s hired hand. She drove tractors, irrigated fields of sugar beets, corn, wheat, and alfalfa, and served as her father’s righthand woman.

short sales, foreclosures, and you really had to work for the business.”

That hard work made her who she is today, giving her an unbreakable, lifelong work ethic.

“I get up early in the morning, get my coffee, and dig right into work,” she says. “Then I plan out my day.” She tackles tasks that demand her attention and always sets aside time to reach out to her sphere. Afternoons are reserved for appointments and showings. “I do try to be flexible,” she says. “Every

“I think my background with how I grew up taught me that you have to work hard,” Christy reflects. “And when I started in real estate, it was a tough time and lots of

10 • September 2026

Today, as a highly successful agent with eXp Realty, Christy brings that exact same dirt-under-thefingernails determination to her clients. Whether she is working until 8:00 or 9:00 p.m., dedicating her Saturdays to showings, or analyzing the latest market trends over a quiet cup of coffee, the grit she learned on the farm remains the engine of her business.

client has different needs, so being adaptable is simply part of the job.”

A Foundation Built on Finance Christy’s path into real estate in July 2005 was sparked by a desire common to many parents: the delicate art of work-life balance. After studying at Colorado State University, she spent years working as a mortgage underwriter. When she had her three children, she realized she needed a career that worked for her family. “I wanted flexibility to attend their school events and cheer them on from the sidelines and be there as they grew up,” Christy says. “Real estate gave me that opportunity.” Her previous career in the mortgage industry gave her an instant competitive advantage. Because she already understood the financial side of buying a home, she could confidently guide her clients through the

Boulder County Real Producers • 11

TOP PRODUCER

Christy

BUILT BEFORE SUNRISE:

RAISED ON THE FA R M . B U I LT F O R R E A L E S TAT E .

HEPP

BY ELIZABETH MCCABE • PHOTOS BY NICOLE TAYLOR PHOTOGRAPHY

short sales, foreclosures, and you really had to work for the business.”

That hard work made her who she is today, giving her an unbreakable, lifelong work ethic.

“I think my background with how I grew up taught me that you have to work hard,” Christy reflects. “And when I started in real estate, it was a tough time and lots of

10 • September 2026

client has different needs, so being adaptable is simply part of the job.”

Boulder County Real Producers • 11

business thrives almost entirely on repeat clients and personal referrals.

travel with her husband, attend sporting events and concerts, and spend precious moments with her kids, and parents, who are 88 and 92.

For Christy, every transaction represents an important milestone. She takes great joy in educating first-time homebuyers and helping them reach the closing table, just as she respects the emotional weight of helping older clients downsize after decades of making memories in a single home.

“At the end of the day, I don’t want to just be remembered as a successful REALTOR®,” Christy reflects. “But I hope I’m remembered as someone who really cared about people, who built real lasting relationships, and helped families find the place they would call home, where their most treasured memories would be made.”

Looking ahead, Christy jokes that she has “no plans to slow down anytime soon.” In all seriousness, she intends to continue growing her business at full speed for at least another 8-10 years, and even then, she envisions herself “dabbling” CONTACT in the industry well US! into the future.

“You’re representing somebody’s story, no matter what you’re doing,” she says. “Every client experience really is a significant chapter in somebody’s life. I just think it’s really an honor to be able to walk alongside people during that journey.”

Christy Hepp Realtor cnishi1068@msn.com christysellscolorado.com (303) 910-5393

Staying Adaptable and Active

You have to talk to people. YOU CAN’T BE A SILENT AGENT.

often-intimidating lending process. “I kind of had that piece that I was aware of and how that worked. And so that was like one piece of the deal that I already understood,” she explains. When she launched her real estate career in 2005, she leaned heavily on her work ethic. She committed herself to the basics: hosting open houses, constantly communicating with her sphere of influence, and building genuine relationships from scratch.

Heart Work Over Trophy Hunting Though Christy has earned numerous high-ranking 12 • September 2026

production awards and professional recognitions over her two-decade career, she measures her success by a very different metric. “I don’t truly measure my success by my awards or my production,” Christy shares. “To me, it’s knowing I’ve served a lot of people. I pride myself in professionalism, honesty, and integrity. I’ve become friends with my clients, and I just feel like I have the compassion for the business, and I’ve put my whole heart into it, and it’s really been deeply meaningful heart work.” This personal touch has paid off. Today, Christy’s

To maintain this high level of service, Christy believes in staying sharp, visible, and connected. When asked about the best industry advice she has ever received, her answer is straightforward: “Be yourself, be genuine, and know your market. You have to be able to adapt to the ever-changing market and be on top of what’s happening.” She also notes that success in real estate requires consistent outreach. “You have to talk to people. You can’t be a silent agent. You have to be out there and really talking to people.” That connection extends to her community involvement. Christy actively supports both the Multiple Sclerosis Association and the American Heart Association through volunteer work and

fundraising walks, causes near and dear to her heart after close friends were impacted by the diseases.

Family as the Ultimate “Why” While Christy’s husband, Jason, lovingly calls her a “workaholic,” her determination and drive are powered by a very specific motivation: her family.

grandmother to her adorable granddaughter, Brecklyn. Because Brecklyn lives in Montana, Christy relies on FaceTime to stay connected, but real estate allowed her to travel and spend the entire first month of Brecklyn’s life helping her daughter and son-in-law. That time together? It was priceless.

“Family is super, super important to me,” Christy says. “I feel like that’s what my life is rooted around is my family, and they are my why.”

“Watching the next generation grow made me appreciate even more the importance of creating a home with love and the memories, and I love helping people do that,” she says.

That family circle recently expanded this year when Christy became a

When she does take a break from her busy schedule, Christy loves to cook, hike, Boulder County Real Producers • 13

business thrives almost entirely on repeat clients and personal referrals.

travel with her husband, attend sporting events and concerts, and spend precious moments with her kids, and parents, who are 88 and 92.

Christy Hepp Realtor cnishi1068@msn.com christysellscolorado.com (303) 910-5393

Staying Adaptable and Active

You have to talk to people. YOU CAN’T BE A SILENT AGENT.

Heart Work Over Trophy Hunting Though Christy has earned numerous high-ranking 12 • September 2026

fundraising walks, causes near and dear to her heart after close friends were impacted by the diseases.

Family as the Ultimate “Why” While Christy’s husband, Jason, lovingly calls her a “workaholic,” her determination and drive are powered by a very specific motivation: her family.

“Family is super, super important to me,” Christy says. “I feel like that’s what my life is rooted around is my family, and they are my why.”

“Watching the next generation grow made me appreciate even more the importance of creating a home with love and the memories, and I love helping people do that,” she says.

That family circle recently expanded this year when Christy became a

When she does take a break from her busy schedule, Christy loves to cook, hike, Boulder County Real Producers • 13

PARTNER INSIGHT

BY KATE COLLARDSON

THE

Dreaded

SOLAR HOME AND WHY IT DOESN’T HAVE TO BE

You find the perfect home for your buyer. It checks every box, it’s priced right, and you’re ready to write the offer. Then you notice it: solar panels on the roof.

For many realtors, that single detail changes everything. Suddenly you’re imagining unresponsive leasing companies, cryptic utility bills, and a seller who’s convinced those panels added $30,000 to their home’s value. You find yourself wondering whether to have a frank conversation with your buyer about what lies ahead, or whether this house was ever really the right fit in the first place. It’s a frustrating position to be in - especially when everything else about the property is exactly right. Solar Service of Colorado was built for exactly that moment.

What They Actually Do Founded by a team with thirty years of combined solar experience, Solar Service of Colorado inspects residential solar systems - and more importantly, translates what they find into language that works at the negotiating table. Their goal isn’t just to hand over a technical report. It’s to give realtors, buyers, and sellers a clear, shared understanding of what the solar system is worth, how it’s performing, and what comes next. Every inspection starts with the fundamentals: identifying the equipment, 14 • September 2026

determining its age, and understanding how the system connects to the home. From there, the team assesses installation quality, confirms the system is performing as expected, and benchmarks its output against what a comparable system in peak condition would produce. They look at real production data, evaluate the condition of the hardware, and flag anything that doesn’t add up. If there’s a lease agreement involved - and in Colorado, there often is - they break down the jargon so that buyers, sellers, and their agents all understand exactly what’s being transferred. Lease assumptions can be one of the most confusing and contentious parts of a solar home transaction. Solar Service of Colorado removes that friction. The result is a detailed inspection report that’s written to be used - in negotiations, in disclosures, and in conversations with buyers who deserve to know what they’re getting.

The Question They Are Frequently Asked “It’s a new build. Why would I need a solar inspection?” The logic makes sense on the surface: brand new home, passed city inspection, everything under warranty. Solar should be fine, right? Not always — and understanding why requires a brief history lesson. Residential solar is a young industry. Utility-connected home solar has only existed

for roughly twenty years, and that short history has been anything but smooth. The economics of solar have historically depended on a patchwork of federal tax credits, state rebates, and utility buyback programs. These incentives were designed to make solar affordable while the industry built the scale it needed to stand on its own - and largely, they worked. Costs have fallen dramatically, and solar is now a legitimate, cost-effective energy source for millions of Americans. But those incentives were never meant to last forever. And when they disappear, they tend to disappear fast.

This is where it gets complicated: many solar companies built their entire business models around those incentive programs. When the incentives dried up - which they do, often with little warning - those businesses became unviable almost overnight. The result has been a boom-and-bust cycle that solar industry veterans refer to as the “solar coaster.” It has played out in markets across the country, including Colorado. That cycle has left something behind in its wake: a surprising number of residential solar systems that were installed but never properly completed.

Which brings us back to that new build.

lengthy and confusing postclosing process for buyers and builders alike.

A builder partners with a solar contractor. The project gets designed, permitted, and installed. Then the contractor runs out of runway before the system is ever commissioned - before it’s connected to the grid, configured, and actually turned on. Solar Service of Colorado encounters this scenario more often than most people would expect. The panels are on the roof. The wiring runs through the walls. And the system has never produced a single kilowatt-hour of electricity.

Solar Doesn’t Have to Be a Deal-Killer In the hands of someone who understands it, a solar system isn’t a liability - it’s an asset. One that can be explained clearly, valued accurately, and transferred cleanly. For the right buyer, a wellperforming solar system is a genuine selling point, not a source of anxiety. That’s exactly what Solar Service of Colorado is here to help realtors communicate. For any listing or buyer transaction with solar involved, their team is ready to serve as a knowledgeable, responsive resource from the first question to the final signature.

The good news: Solar Service of Colorado works directly with manufacturers and utilities to commission those systems, cutting through what would otherwise be a

CONTACT

US!

Reach out at (303) 747-5065.

Boulder County Real Producers • 15

PARTNER INSIGHT

BY KATE COLLARDSON

THE

Dreaded

SOLAR HOME AND WHY IT DOESN’T HAVE TO BE

You find the perfect home for your buyer. It checks every box, it’s priced right, and you’re ready to write the offer. Then you notice it: solar panels on the roof.

Which brings us back to that new build.

lengthy and confusing postclosing process for buyers and builders alike.

The good news: Solar Service of Colorado works directly with manufacturers and utilities to commission those systems, cutting through what would otherwise be a

CONTACT

US!

Reach out at (303) 747-5065.

Boulder County Real Producers • 15

Your Solar Panels Should Be Saving You Money.

Are They?

Solar Installation Inspection System Performance Check Accurate Valuation Lease Transfer Support

Schedule Your Solar Inspection Today! (303) 835-9235 SOLARSERVICEOFCOLORADO.COM

Ask About Our Complimentary Lunch & Learn Presentation KTW >TZW 4ΕHJ

HALF OF COLORADO HOMES EXCEED EPA RECOMMENDATION RADON LEVELS. DOES YOURS?

SCAN TO LEARN MORE OR CALL

720.220.4063

Your Boulder County Radon Mitigation Expert Let Us Help Protect Your Family from Radioactive Gas! State Licensed • Locally Owned Certified Professionals • Rating 16 • September 2026

Book your inspection today!

ULTIMATE Home Inspection Experience We make sure your clients can sell with confidence and know what they are buying!

303-772-1997

office.roundsteam@pillartopost.com

roundsteam.pillartopost.com Boulder County Real Producers • 17

Your Solar Panels Should Be Saving You Money.

Are They?

Solar Installation Inspection System Performance Check Accurate Valuation Lease Transfer Support

Schedule Your Solar Inspection Today! (303) 835-9235 SOLARSERVICEOFCOLORADO.COM

Ask About Our Complimentary Lunch & Learn Presentation KTW >TZW 4ΕHJ

HALF OF COLORADO HOMES EXCEED EPA RECOMMENDATION RADON LEVELS. DOES YOURS?

SCAN TO LEARN MORE OR CALL

720.220.4063

Your Boulder County Radon Mitigation Expert Let Us Help Protect Your Family from Radioactive Gas! State Licensed • Locally Owned Certified Professionals • Rating 16 • September 2026

Book your inspection today!

ULTIMATE Home Inspection Experience We make sure your clients can sell with confidence and know what they are buying!

303-772-1997

office.roundsteam@pillartopost.com

roundsteam.pillartopost.com Boulder County Real Producers • 17

BENSmith

REALTOR® TO KNOW

HIS SECRET TO

REAL ESTATE SUCCESS?

COFFEE, AUTHENTICITY, AND A 20-YEAR GRIND BY ELIZABETH MCCABE • PHOTOS BY NICOLE TAYLOR PHOTOGRAPHY

For two decades, Ben Smith thrived in one of the toughest industries around. He started at the bottom, scraping plates and washing dishes, then worked his way through nearly every role a restaurant could offer. By the end of his hospitality career, he was directing operations for a restaurant group across Boulder and Denver and had even opened a restaurant from the ground up in Erie. Armed with a Food and Beverage Management degree from Johnson & Wales University, he knew the long nights, relentless pressure, split-second problem-solving, and constant demands of keeping both customers and employees happy. In short, Ben knew how to perform when the heat was on.

Then came 2020. As he and his wife, Molly, raised two young boys, the demands of restaurant life were becoming harder to manage. When the pandemic froze the hospitality industry, Ben knew it was time for a pivot. “The late nights and weekends and demands of the restaurant lifestyle were just becoming increasingly difficult for us,” Ben explains. “And then when the pandemic shut down the industry, it kind of became the sign that we needed to just transition.” Real estate had been quietly waiting in the wings. Raised in Boulder by a general contractor dad who built spec homes, Ben had always been drawn to the industry. “I had always just kind of gravitated towards REALTORS® at cocktail parties or functions... I always felt like they were the coolest people in the room,” he recalls with a laugh. “I was like, ‘I’m going to do that.’”

Trial by Fire: From Kitchen Line to Contract Signings Ben spent quarantine studying, earned his license in late 2020, and hit the ground running in 2021. Jumping into one of the wildest market surges in recent history proved to be the ultimate crash course. 18 • September 2026

Boulder County Real Producers • 19

“First year, in 2021, that’s when the rates were really low and it was multiple offers and crazy,” he says. “It was like a real trial by fire situation. I really enjoyed it.”

“I always tell people that I am in this business to fund my wife’s dreams and support my kids’ passions.” For Molly, his wife of 10 years, that means building toward a bigger home, more family travel, and quality time together. For his sons, Samson (10) and Sterling (7), it means having the freedom to explore whatever sparks their curiosity, whether it’s soccer, rock climbing, or giant Lego pits.

While changing careers during a global shift sounds daunting to most, Ben’s restaurant background gave him a unique edge. He brought along essential skills: high-level communication, seamless service, rapid problem-solving, and a deeprooted commitment to taking care of people. Plus, his strong work ethic kept him grounded. “I was done with restaurants, I have a really strong work ethic, so I was ready to hit the ground and pound the pavement and get going.”

Fueling the Community (One Cup at a Time) Even with a thriving real estate career, Ben hasn’t completely let go of his service roots. He just changed the setting. On Sunday mornings, you can find him at his local church in Louisville, arriving early to brew and serve coffee to arriving families. “It gives me an opportunity to meet people from throughout the community... and then I kind of scratch that hospitality itch that I don’t get anymore,” he says. “A couple hours on Sunday morning making coffee and then shaking hands and getting to know people is the perfect amount that I need.”

Today, as part of the Apollo Group, working alongside longtime friends and leaning into the proven framework of Ninja Selling, Ben has hit his stride. Rooted in Boulder County, he brings a lifetime of local knowledge to every transaction. “I grew up here. So I have a real passion for these communities and these neighborhoods. I don’t have to sugarcoat it or pretend like I don’t

know. I can be honest and give my experience and be authentic.”

Authenticity over Algorithms When asked about the best real estate advice he’s ever received, Ben’s answer is simple: Just be yourself. Whether he’s sharing property tips, market insights, or family moments on Instagram, what you see online is exactly who you meet in person. “People who see me there will say, ‘We appreciate the authenticity of being yourself.’ Whether you find me on Instagram or find me at a coffee shop, you’re going to get the same person all the time.” 20 • September 2026

That same steady presence defines how he approaches his work-life balance. Real estate is a non-stop hustle, but Ben stays driven by what matters most: his family.

COFFEE’S THE ANSWER, I GUESS, TO BUILDING A BUSINESS.

That passion for connection doesn’t stop at church. Ben serves on the PTO at Douglas Elementary, where, naturally, he brings Starbucks coffee for the principal and parents, and participates in the BVSD Leadership Academy to stay involved in public education policy. “Coffee’s the answer, I guess, to building a business,” Ben jokes. From navigating intense negotiations in Boulder County to handing out hot coffee on a Sunday morning, Ben Smith’s transition from hospitality to homes has come full circle. After two decades in hospitality, he may have changed industries, but he never changed what made him successful in the first place: putting people first.

CONTACT

US!

Ben Smith Broker Associate The Apollo Group eXp Realty (303) 667-5078 ben@apollogroup.com www.apollogroup.com

Boulder County Real Producers • 21

BENSmith

REALTOR® TO KNOW

HIS SECRET TO

REAL ESTATE SUCCESS?

COFFEE, AUTHENTICITY, AND A 20-YEAR GRIND BY ELIZABETH MCCABE • PHOTOS BY NICOLE TAYLOR PHOTOGRAPHY

Boulder County Real Producers • 19

“First year, in 2021, that’s when the rates were really low and it was multiple offers and crazy,” he says. “It was like a real trial by fire situation. I really enjoyed it.”

know. I can be honest and give my experience and be authentic.”

That same steady presence defines how he approaches his work-life balance. Real estate is a non-stop hustle, but Ben stays driven by what matters most: his family.

COFFEE’S THE ANSWER, I GUESS, TO BUILDING A BUSINESS.

CONTACT

US!

Ben Smith Broker Associate The Apollo Group eXp Realty (303) 667-5078 ben@apollogroup.com www.apollogroup.com

Boulder County Real Producers • 21

PARTNER PROFILE

EXPLORING EXCELLENCE IN HOME INSPECTIONS: A SPOTLIGHT ON

INSPECTIONS OVER COFFEE

In today’s fast-paced real estate landscape, where high interest rates, low inventory, and financial uncertainties loom large, both Realtors and homebuyers find themselves navigating a challenging market. Amidst these formidable circumstances lies an ally of expertise, support, and partnership:

BY CHRISTINE BOWEN • PHOTOS BY BRENDA SAINT, BRENDA SAINT PHOTOGRAPHY

Inspections Over Coffee. This innovative residential, commercial and environmental inspection company not only understands the pressing issues that their clients face; they also offer a comprehensive and modern approach to home inspections that puts both Realtors and their clients at ease. Inspections Over Coffee is more than just a business; it is a passion-driven endeavor led by owner Bryan Zenner, a dedicated and experienced professional who took over the long-standing company earlier this year. Bryan’s journey into the home inspection industry was born out of a desire to utilize acquired skills and thrive in Colorado’s booming real estate and home-building sector. With a degree in business from Creighton University in Nebraska and a diverse background that includes being a chef, an operations manager, and a home inspector, Bryan’s unique blend of skills brings a fresh perspective to the field. “Colorado real estate is growing so quickly, and I love being a part of the industry in this way,” states Bryan. When it comes to entering a client’s home, Inspections Over Coffee has a clear-cut priority and procedure. Their thorough inspectors meticulously work their way through the entire 22 • September 2026

property, examining every nook and cranny. The goal is to provide a holistic view of the property’s condition, empowering clients with information. “Our main goal is that after receiving our report, the client feels super informed and confident moving forward with the purchase of their new home.” Their motto, “A Forward-Thinking Approach to Home Inspections,” encapsulates their commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology and reporting methods. This approach not only sets their clients up for

success but also distinguishes them in the industry. Inspections Over Coffee strikes a delicate balance between thoroughness and practicality. They steer clear of unnecessary alarmism, and they truly value the strong partnerships that they create with Realtors and their clients. Inspections Over Coffee doesn’t stop at traditional home inspections. They offer a spectrum of ancillary services that provide a 360-degree view of a property’s potential concerns. From radon and lead testing to water quality analysis, mold, and air quality assessments, asbestos, and even sewer and septic line scoping, their offerings extend beyond the ordinary, ensuring no stone is left unturned in the inspection process. For real estate agents, Inspections Over Coffee serves as a reliable ally. From streamlined scheduling to delivering top-quality reports and addressing client inquiries, they are committed to offering white-glove service throughout the inspection journey. They understand that a home inspection can be a stressful step for any homebuyer, and they strive to make the process as smooth and informative as possible. “We hold a high regard for a homeowner’s property. Whether it is donning booties or ensuring that appliances and system settings are restored to their pre-inspection state, our aim is to leave no trace of our presence, creating an impression that we were never there.”

Boulder County Real Producers • 23

PARTNER PROFILE

EXPLORING EXCELLENCE IN HOME INSPECTIONS: A SPOTLIGHT ON

INSPECTIONS OVER COFFEE

BY CHRISTINE BOWEN • PHOTOS BY BRENDA SAINT, BRENDA SAINT PHOTOGRAPHY

Boulder County Real Producers • 23

WE HOLD A HIGH REGARD FOR A HOMEOWNER’S PROPERTY.

They recognize the critical nature of identifying significant issues that might lie beneath the surface of a potential dream home. Their focus on structural integrity, roofing, HVAC systems, plumbing, and electrical components ensures that Realtors and their clients have a clear understanding of a property’s condition. Bryan’s favorite part of the job is working closely with Realtors to ensure their clients’ satisfaction. This commitment to personalized service shines through in fun client interactions, such as providing drone lessons for roof inspections and utilizing Flir cameras to engage clients in the inspection process. Outside of the world of inspections, Bryan lives in Longmont with his wife, Sara, and their dog, Lily. He cherishes time spent with family and enjoys outdoor pursuits like gardening, photography, boating, golf, hiking, and embracing the serenity of nature. His two sisters and their families live nearby on the Front Range and his father owns a mountain home in Grand Lake so together they all enjoy the best that both the mountains and the Foothills have to offer. In a final reflection, Inspections Over Coffee emphasizes its role in alleviating the stresses that homebuyers face. Their team of seasoned inspectors takes pride in ensuring a thorough yet approachable assessment of every inspected home. “We want to bring a softness to the home inspection industry. It can feel stiff and intimidating - and we want to bring more ease, lightness, and efficiency to this process. We care deeply about having happy clients and will always act in their best interest. I am really invested in this industry - I appreciate each of our valued Realtor partnerships. For Realtors who I have yet to work with, please get in touch with me - I am excited to work with you!” Inspections Over Coffee is not just an inspection company; it is your brand identity | logo suite informed, confident decisions for partner in making a future home. Whether you are a seasoned Realtor or a curious homebuyer, Inspections Over Coffee invites you to experience its unparalleled approach to inspections and discover a world of assurance and peace of mind. base logo

24 • September 2026

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Boulder County Real Producers • 25

WE HOLD A HIGH REGARD FOR A HOMEOWNER’S PROPERTY.

24 • September 2026

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Boulder County Real Producers • 25

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Boulder County Real Producers • 27

WHERE STYLE AND DURABILITY ALIGN FOR EVERY LISTING • EXTERIOR PAINTING • WINDOW REPLACEMENTS • HAIL STORM DAMAGE RESTORATION

VETERAN OWNED BUSINESS PARTNER WITH THE BEST! 720.535.9629 • KVWINDOWSINC.COM 26 • September 2026

Boulder County Real Producers • 27

5 Bathroom Features That Could Turn Off Future Homebuyers

A bathroom remodel can make your home more enjoyable today, but if selling your home is in your future, it’s worth considering how your design choices may appeal to potential buyers. While personal style is important, some features can make a bathroom feel dated, less functional, or more expensive to update.

HERE ARE FIVE BATHROOM FEATURES THAT COULD MAKE YOUR HOME LESS ATTRACTIVE WHEN IT’S TIME TO SELL.

2. Limited Storage Storage is one of the most requested features in any bathroom. Vanities with minimal cabinet space or bathrooms lacking storage altogether often leave buyers wondering where they’ll keep everyday essentials. Well-designed cabinetry and functional storage solutions make a bathroom feel more practical and organized.

3. Trendy Finishes That Date Quickly Bold tile patterns, highly decorative cabinetry, and overly trendy finishes may reflect today’s style but can quickly become tomorrow’s remodeling project. Neutral colors, classic materials, and timeless design choices tend to have broader appeal and help buyers envision themselves in the space.

design. Creating a space that feels clean, comfortable, and versatile will not only enhance your daily routine but can also make your home more attractive to a wider range of buyers when it’s time to sell.

4. No Bathtub While many homeowners prefer showers for everyday convenience, a home without a single bathtub may be less appealing to families with young children or buyers who simply enjoy soaking in a tub. Ideally, a home should offer at least one bathroom with both a bathtub and a shower to meet a variety of lifestyle needs.

5. Highly Personalized Design Choices

1. Tiny Showers Homebuyers appreciate bathrooms that feel comfortable and spacious. An overly small shower can make the room seem cramped and less inviting. Even if a complete renovation isn’t in the budget, choosing a layout that provides a little extra elbow room can improve both daily comfort and buyer appeal. 28 • September 2026

Bathrooms featuring bold paint colors, unusual fixtures, or unique decorative elements may showcase your personality, but they don’t always appeal to everyone. Keeping permanent features simple and neutral allows buyers to picture the home as their own without immediately thinking about renovation costs.

The Bottom Line If you’re updating your bathroom with resale value in mind, focus on functionality, storage, and timeless Boulder County Real Producers • 29

5 Bathroom Features That Could Turn Off Future Homebuyers

HERE ARE FIVE BATHROOM FEATURES THAT COULD MAKE YOUR HOME LESS ATTRACTIVE WHEN IT’S TIME TO SELL.

5. Highly Personalized Design Choices

The Bottom Line If you’re updating your bathroom with resale value in mind, focus on functionality, storage, and timeless Boulder County Real Producers • 29

HEALTH AND LONGEVITY

How Much

SUNLIGHT Do You Eat? BY DR. FELICIA SANTELLI

In the last several months we have learned about sunlight and its benefits and about food resembling body organs that are beneficial for that organ. Today I want to put these two together and show how we consume sunlight through our food.

We’re past summer and the bright strong sun shining until dark. But we can still get sunlight through our food. Yes, you read that correctly! Now, let’s discuss how we consume sunlight through our food. I recently saw a documentary called, ‘Farmacy of Food’, which explains the ‘how’. It is about how we grow our own food and more importantly about 30 • September 2026

the soil it is grown in. I know this is not possible for most of us, nor do we want to be bothered. However, the next best approach is buying local since it would be fresher than most supermarket items that have travelled many miles to get to their shelves. Good health is all about the food we eat. It’s like taking medicine if we’re eating the right source of food. Most of the food we buy in

supermarkets have little ‘energy’ since they probably have been grown weeks or months before. Our food is usually picked unripen and chemically altered. It has been said we need to eat 40 tomatoes in order to get the nutrients we received from one tomato in the 1950’s! And one can conclude that the rise in chronic diseases, even at young ages, is due to our lack of nutrition.

disease. And although it may be difficult for many people to change their habits, we can alter the genetic structure of food and assist our resiliency through the food we eat.

doctors for each problem and are usually taking multiple drugs. We need to look at ourselves holistically. Why is the immune system in a particular person attacking itself?

Creating health resiliency in our bodies comes from nutrients, air, and light. We all run on light. But how do we get more light into our bodies?

The ‘Farmacy of Light’ gives us a different perspective and will change how we think about food and health.

We are linked to the Earth, and everything around us. So, in a sense we are beings of light.

It’s like a diseased tree. We have to look at the root structure of the tree. Is it getting enough water, sunlight? Is the soil getting enough nutrients so the whole tree can flourish? We don’t just look at the individual branches.

Most of us think in terms of minerals, vitamins, calories. What if the freshness, vitality, and light inside our food matters more than we think? Suppose health resilience comes from a source other than what we’ve been told. Perhaps it’s not through what we eat but through what we have not even considered. The living energy of light itself.

Although we cannot photosynthesize, we can “eat sunlight” through our diet. Plants capture photons via photosynthesis and convert them into carbohydrates. When you eat fruits, vegetables, or the animals that ate those plants, you are consuming stored solar energy.

“If all plants feed on sunlight, and we consume plants and organisms that consume plants, then we are essentially eating light as a primary part of our diet,” says David Wolfe, a raw food activist. In other words, we’re all light-eaters. A part of science called biophotonics has proven that every cell in your body emits a continuous stream of light. We know that certain foods emit more light than others and is changing the way nutritionists and naturopaths are looking at healing disease. 76% of Americans suffer from at least one chronic

The reduction of nutrient food seems to correlate with the accumulation and acceleration of diseases, some of which were not seen in the 1950s. As a result, some doctors have concluded that there must be other ways of looking at health. People are inflamed, overfed, and undernourished. Chronic disease is on the rise and multiple chronic diseases are on the rise in individuals. People are being treated by many doctors who don’t consult with each other. No one seems to ask, ‘What is the underlying root cause of these diseases?’ With these diseases people are told they just have bad luck, or bad genes, etc. They are seeing individual

Perhaps one solution is looking at food as medicine -whole nutrient-dense food. And balance our physical health with emotions, relationships, spiritual life, all of which play a role in our overall health and resiliency. “A diet in minimally processed food close to nature, predominantly plants, is decisively associated with health promotion, disease prevention and amelioration of gene expression.” Dr. Daniel Valencia, medical doctor in Texas. There are food programs that teach us what to eat, but not why the same vegetable grown in depleted soil or vibrant soil can have completely different effects on the human body. Functional medicine programs explain our biochemistry, but rarely ask why the mitochondria (cellular level) are struggling to produce energy in a world flooded with artificial light and disconnected from natural rhythms. Even those doing everything right, from eating consciously, to

reading labels, to taking supplements, are still often exhausted, inflamed, and undernourished. And confused about why! Plus, mainstream medicine has not been able to explain or correct what is happening. “Food is the delivery system for sunshine.” What is shown in Farmacy of Light isn’t fringe science or wishful thinking. It’s research that is quietly rewriting what we understand about food, light, and the body’s capacity to heal. And it raises an uncomfortable question: If fresh, locally grown, biophotonic-rich food is what our bodies actually run on, why is almost none of it available to most of us?

separate systems. We are one system, and we cannot fully heal one part while ignoring the other. Let’s be honest. Most of us are not going to start a farm in our yards. However, it is time for a change. We have learned processed food has lots of ingredients that are not good or healthy for the body. It is just a matter of paying attention to what we buy, cook, and eat. Isn’t our health worth the effort? Remember, food is the delivery system for sunlight. So, let the sunshine in!

REFERENCES: https://www.webmd.com/a-toz-guides/ss/slideshow-sunlighthealth-effects https://foodrevolution.org/ https://www.youtube.com/ foodrevolutionnetwork https://rewildingdrum.be/whyyou-should-eat-sunlight-foods/ https://rewildingdrum.be/whyyou-should-eat-sunlight-foods/ DISCLOSURE: I am not advocating any particular treatment or technique. I ask that you keep in mind that all the information given is just my web research. It is only meant to give you the basic history and knowledge to hopefully whet your desire to learn more by doing your own research. One must do ‘due diligence’, researching more information than I am able to provide here in order to make a knowledgeable, individual and personal decision as to which route to follow.

When the food travelling to our plate has lost its biophotonic energy before it reaches us, the body isn’t getting what it needs. And it’s not just nutrients. It’s LIGHT! Fresh, locally grown food has a quality of energy that processed and depleted food does not. It’s an energy the body uses to communicate, regulate, and heal. The solution isn’t another supplement or a stricter diet? What if the body is crying out for local, light-filled food! The Farmacy of Light helps to explain why our food system is making us sick. It’s more about the soil microbes, the ecosystem to the biophotonic energy in the food and the circadian signals that govern how we absorb it. Our bodies and the living world around us are not Boulder County Real Producers • 31

HEALTH AND LONGEVITY

How Much

SUNLIGHT Do You Eat? BY DR. FELICIA SANTELLI

disease. And although it may be difficult for many people to change their habits, we can alter the genetic structure of food and assist our resiliency through the food we eat.

doctors for each problem and are usually taking multiple drugs. We need to look at ourselves holistically. Why is the immune system in a particular person attacking itself?

Creating health resiliency in our bodies comes from nutrients, air, and light. We all run on light. But how do we get more light into our bodies?

The ‘Farmacy of Light’ gives us a different perspective and will change how we think about food and health.

We are linked to the Earth, and everything around us. So, in a sense we are beings of light.

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Boulder County Real Producers • 33

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