REAL ESTATE
Real Estate News, Open Home Listings, Homes for Sale, Rentals and More!
BOULDER COUNTY
Equity Colorado is Low on Fees and High on Agent Support
Open Homes and Virtual Tour Quick Guide
Design Recipes: How to Create Looks that Sell
Ask Angie’s List: How Can I Transform Unused Space?
Looking for a home? View comprehensive listings of local virtual tours and open houses taking place from all across the area.
When it comes time to sell your home, you are going to want to ensure that it not only sells in the shortest amount of time, but that it also sells for top dollar.
With winter coming on and a year where you’ve probably been inside more than usual, it’s an ideal time to rethink how you use your existing space.
Nov. 6-7, 2020
ATHOMECOLORADO.COM
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NEWS
COLORADO HOME AND REAL ESTATE
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Mary Lynn Bruny Mary Hill Tom Kalinski Jeff Ostrowski Rick McAlexander Duane Duggan Pam Moore Cathy Hobbs Paul F. P. Pogue Sharon Bokan ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Thais Hafer Toni McNeill Mary Romano CREATIVE DIRECTOR, EDITOR Greg Stone
At Home is an advertising supplement of the Boulder Daily Camera and Longmont Times-Call. ©2020 Prairie Mountain Media.
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To advertise in At Home or to promote your open house visit AtHomeColorado.com/Advertise, call Thais Hafer at 303.473.1456 or Toni McNeill at 303.684.5329.
EDITORIAL & EVENTS
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Elevations Foundation provides more than $282,000 for wildfire relief with support of the community and Elevations Credit Union BOULDER – With Colorado’s historic wildfire season, Elevations Credit Union is helping people affected by wildfires by matching donations made to Elevations Foundation’s Wildfire Relief Fund. The credit union is pleased to announce that through phenomenal community support, they will be matching $100,000. With the additional $82,000 donated from the community above the $100,000 match, a total of $282,000 will be donated to those displaced in Boulder and Larimer Counties in partnership with two local organizations: •
Community Foundation Serving Boulder County
•
United Way of Larimer County
“We are beyond grateful for the generous gift from Elevations Foundation and Elevations Credit Union members to the Larimer County Fire Recovery Fund,” said Deirdre Sullivan, CEO and president of United Way of Larimer County. “This partnership of business support, individual gifts, and our ability to distribute resources directly to those impacted by the fires, is what makes us a united community and able to recover strong from all that has impacted Larimer County in 2020 and beyond.” “This fund exemplifies the community at its best. Our members expect us to be engaged but at the end of the day, it’s our members and our communities that are involved,” said Dennis Paul, vice president community affairs for Elevations Credit Union. “On behalf of Elevations Credit Union and the Board of Directors of Elevations Foundation, we are grateful and humbled by the response we have seen for those individuals and families in need.” Members, businesses and the community all played a significant role in the success of the fund. Elevations Foundation extends a big thank you to the following groups:
Pictured from Left to Right: Allison Hines, Senior Vice President of Resource Development, United Way of Larimer County; Deirdre Sullivan, CEO and President, United Way of Larimer County; Tatiana Hernandez, CEO, Community Foundation Serving Boulder County; Dennis Paul, VP Community Affairs for Elevations Credit Union. (Photo courtesy: Elevations Credit Union).
•
The over 1,000 individual community members who donated.
•
Spyder Active Sports for contributing 5 percent of net profits over three days to the fund.
•
The Colorado Association of Realtors® and National Association of Realtors® for their support.
•
The Boulder Area Realtor® Association (BARA) for its call to action to their members.
•
Real Estate offices across the area that donated over $5,000, including RE/MAX Alliance in Boulder matching up to $5,000 in donations from members of The Boulder Area Realtor® Association (BARA).
•
Filmmakers Dylan Sindelar and Dillon Cole, who shared the fund link with their constituency when debuting their short film, “Twigs,” which premiered on Halloween in Fort Collins.
The generous community members who donated were given the opportunity to give feedback about the Wildfire Relief Fund. Comments included: “Thanks Elevations Credit Union for doing this thoughtful thing, appreciate it as will the people affected.” “Thank you for initiating this Wildfire Relief Fund and for matching our donations. This is yet another great thing about Elevations Credit Union, and it’s a pleasure to be a member! You do good work!” “Thanks for your care for our community. This is one reason I am such a long-time, happy Elevations customer.” “Thank you for this fundraising effort for our mountain communities. I own a cabin in Lefthand Canyon, so am especially appreciative.” “Thank you, Elevations, for all the worthwhile causes you support! Happy to be part of the Elevations organization. Hope this small donation helps.” To learn more about the Elevations Foundation visit: elevationscu.com/ foundation. DAILY CAMERA / TIMES-CALL
THE LIGHTER SIDE
Quarantining at home: Are we sliding into hibernation? Our old cat Poppy has taken to sleeping even more than usual lately. I think she’s going into semi-hibernation from the lack of activity in our house. BY MARY She’s a social LYNN BRUNY critter (orange tabbies are people lovers), and is use to my husband and me having family and friends around. You can tell she gets excited when the doorbell rings but then is disappointed when it’s just another gosh darn brown box coming through the door. (That being said, she’s waiting to crawl into that box as soon as it’s emptied.) I can relate to Poppy. I feel the same way. (Not so much about the crawling into a box but the sleeping.) Hibernation may be the way to go until we get a vaccine. Actually I think
I’ve been slowly sliding into semi-hibernation without even knowing it. Perhaps we all are. Answer these questions and see if you can relate: Are you consistently wearing clothes that work as both loungewear and sleepwear (a.k.a. sweats)? Do you sometimes crawl into bed without even bothering to change? Do you look in your closet and wonder why you have all those other clothes with buttons and zippers? What’s the point of all that work just to get dressed? If you have work video calls, do you simply add a professional looking shirt (usually the same one), not even bothering to change out of your lounge pants? (Assuming you are at least wearing lounge pants and are not walking around in your skivvies.) Have your hair standards greatly lowered (assuming you have any left at all)? For instance, are you not at all concerned with how the back
ER UND
of your head looks even if the tangled mess could house a family of small mice (and maybe does)? Have you decided that it’s now okay to go to the store in your old bunny slippers like a hung over college student? Do you think tying the laces of actual shoes is just too much work? Have all your positive quarantine plans faded away as the months have slipped by: You gave up on your adult coloring books as staying inside the lines proved far too stressful; you talk with people so infrequently you can barely speak English anymore let alone deal with online Italian lessons; and your work out equipment is now getting less action than a skinny, pimply teenager. Do you think it’s work enough just to get through each day of this crazy year, zombie-like? Have you packed on enough extra poundage that your body can handle a few weeks or even
T
TRAC
CON
months without substance and do okay? Would your digestive tract simply give a deep sigh of relief? Do you have a favorite spot on a couch or chair where you always sit to watch Netflix that is now shaped perfectly to fit your bottom? Is there a cozy throw blanket right by said spot that you don’t even bother folding up anymore because it’s just part of your quarantine nest? Is this nest filled with crumbs and pet hair? If so, do you not even care? Has the ongoing barrage of bad news put you in a catatonic stupor? Hmm, maybe I am ready for that brown box. I can just climb in, curl up, hide from the world and take a nice hibernating snooze with our fat, cozy cat until early spring. Not a bad plan. Mary Lynn Bruny is a Colorado freelance writer. Contact her at ml.bruny@ comcast.net.
SOLD
2964 Sonata Bay Court
2218 Spindrift Drive
$565,000
Low Maintenance Living at its best! Ranch-style Patio Home, 4 bedrms, 3 baths, 2 car attached garage, Backs to private open space. Excellent condition! Eat-in Kitchen, Great room with dining space & fireplace. Main floor study. Large storage room, shop area. 3268 Sq. Ft. A MUST SEE!
$638,000
NW Longmont 2 story w Main floor Master, laundry, study, Living rm, dining, & family rm w/fireplace, 2 bedrms & bath Upstairs, 4th conf. bedrm down & room to expand. Pool and tennis court privileges. + MORE A MUST SEE HOME!
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SOLD
9432 Memory Lane
$450,000
Diane Stow
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Each office independently owned and operated. Nov. 6-7, 2020
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REAL ESTATE
Boulder County market update only 35 listings in Erie. •
Closed sales were up 20 percent; from 46 in October 2019 to 55 in October 2020.
Longmont home sales •
The average sales price for a home in Longmont, Colorado was $563K up $93K since last October.
•
Days on market for homes sold in Longmont was down slightly from a year ago to 55.
•
Last October there were 351 homes for sale. Current listings are 159, down 55 percent!
•
Closed sales in Longmont were 153, up from 147 last October.
Homes are flying off the market in Boulder County Colorado at a much higher price than a year ago. (Photo: Shutterstock).
days from the time a home is listed until the home has its new owner.)
Homes are flying off the market in Boulder County at a much higher price than a year ago.
•
October 2020 Boulder County BY MARY HILL home sales •
•
•
The Hill Group, Coldwell Banker
The average sales price for homes in Boulder County was $781K, up an average of $135K from last October.
Homes stayed on the market in Boulder County only 51 days, down from 67 days last year; 24 percent fewer days on market. (Days on market is calculated as the number of
There are only 631 homes for sale now, compared to 1062 a year ago a difference of 431. The number of homes sold in Boulder County was 459, up 7.5 percent compared to last October.
53 days down 25 days from last year. •
•
The average sale price for homes in Boulder Colorado was $1.088,360, up $213,307 since October 2019.
•
Homes stayed on the market an average of only
Closed sales were 170, up 24 percent since last October.
Erie home sales •
The average sales price for a home in Erie, Colorado was $607K up $37K from a year ago.
•
Days on market dropped slightly from 58 days to 57 days.
•
In October 2019 there were 121 homes for sale. In October 2020 there are
Boulder home sales •
There are 114 fewer homes for sale in Boulder than in October 2019.
Analysis Now is a great time to list your home if you are considering selling. Prices are up all over Boulder County, days on market are down significantly and there is little competition. Multiple offers are common place in this market. Buyers are combing the market for their new home. Mary Hill is a Realtor at The Hill Group, Coldwell Banker. Call 303.808.7796, e-mail mary. hillgroup@gmail.com or visit metroboulderliving.com. (All data is from the IRES MLS).
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DAILY CAMERA / TIMES-CALL
For those ready for what’s next
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© MMXX Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. All Rights Reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated. Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks licensed to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC.
Nov. 6-7, 2020
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REAL ESTATE
Study shows millennials pursue home ownership, undeterred by pandemic
The pandemicforced lifestyle and economic changes are showing up in contrarian ways for the millennial generation. Rather than these challenges BY TOM causing a KALINSKI delay in home RE/MAX of Boulder purchasing, new survey data shows millennials are speeding up their home purchase and are willing to adjust the way they virtually search for and buy a home. According to a recent Realtor. com® and HarrisX survey of 2,000 home shoppers who plan on purchasing a home within the next year, data shows the largest generation in U.S. history is prepared for a competitive market. “If there is any silver lining to the current economic landscape, it’s that mortgage rates are hanging around record lows. With little to no equity to leverage, millennial home buyers tend to take out larger loans. Historically low rates are making this more manageable, even with rising home prices,” said Danielle Hale, chief economist at Realtor.com. “Additionally, shelter-in-place orders helped many who were fortunate enough to keep their jobs save for a down payment -- one of the largest hurdles of buying a home. The combination of low rates and the opportunity to save is enabling many millennials to move up their home buying timeline.” In addition, millennials say they would accept financial assistance from family or friends to make their home buying dreams a reality. Here are key findings of a survey taken in June of 2,000 home shoppers who plan on purchasing a home within the next year. Millennials are speeding up plans to purchase a home. Of survey respondents, 75 percent of millennials have been working remotely since the COVID pandemic hit. Of those respondents, 63 percent said they plan on purchasing a home because of their ability to work remotely. Nearly half of millennial respondents reported COVID has 6
AT HOME COLORADO
The pandemic-forced lifestyle and economic changes are showing up in contrarian ways for the millennial generation. (Photo: Stephanie Liverani, Unsplash).
pushed them to buy a home sooner than their original timeline. Millennials use virtual home search techniques. Fifty-nine percent of millennials reported COVID has changed the way they are approaching their home search. Of those respondents: 37 percent are spending more time researching properties online. 35 percent are spending more time looking at listings photos. 32 percent are spending more time watching listing videos. 31 percent are being more selective about the homes they decide to tour. 27 percent are driving by the home to check out the neighborhood. Millennials are ready to compete for a home. Seventy-one percent of millennial respondents expect competition when shopping for a home. Luckily, 68 percent reported shelter-in-place helped them save for their down payment. With home prices quickly rising, 45 percent expect to receive financial assistance from family or
friends. Millennials are tired of their current home and want room for a family. Over a quarter of millennials reported they were tired of their current home and that was driving their desire to purchase a home. 23 percent reported a growing family as the main driver for wanting to buy a home. 22 percent reported favorable home prices, 20 percent reported favorable interest rates, and 18 percent reported the desire to live in a safer neighborhood. More than half reported looking for a home below the U.S. median home price of $350,000, with 36 percent looking for an “entry-level” home at or under $200,000, and 28 percent seeking a home between $200,000 and $350,000 This means 63 percent of millennial homebuyers are looking to purchase a home at or below $350,000 -- the median price of a home in the U.S., while 37 percent want a home over $350,000. 54 percent believe home prices have hit their peak.
Most millennials aren’t trying to move far. Nearly half of millennials – 49 percent – reported they want to move within their current city. 31 percent reported a desire to move from the city to the nearby suburbs. According to the survey, millennials expressed a greater desire to move to the suburbs than Gen X or Baby Boomers. 13 percent reported they are seeking to move from one city to another within the same state, while only 8 percent want to move to a completely different state. Read more about millennial trends here www.realtor.com/news/ trends/millennials-speeding-uphome-purchases-pandemic. Tom Kalinski is the broker/ owner of RE/MAX of Boulder, the local residential real estate company he established in 1977. He was inducted into Boulder County’s Business Hall of Fame in 2016 and has a 40-year background in commercial and residential real estate. For questions, e-mail Tom at tomkalinski33@gmail.com, call 303.441.5620 or visit boulderco.com. DAILY CAMERA / TIMES-CALL
REAL ESTATE
Refi fee necessary because mortgage giants ‘not close to safety and soundness,’ federal regulator says
The federal regulator who oversees mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac has compromised on a widely pilloried fee on mortgage refinances, but he s not backing down. (Photo: Dreamstime/TNS).
By Bankrate.com The federal regulator who oversees mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac has compromised on a widely pilloried fee on mortgage refinances, but he’s not backing down. Mark Calabria, director of
the Federal Housing Finance Agency, said the 0.5 percent fee on refinances, set to take effect Dec. 1, is crucial to shoring up nation’s mortgage market. Without the fee, Calabria said, Fannie and Freddie – which back about two-thirds of U.S. mortgages – could collapse in a housing crisis. “It is critical to remember that this fee covers losses that are the result of policies that have helped millions of Americans stay safe in their homes during a global pandemic,” Calabria told the Mortgage Bankers Association’s virtual conference Monday. The Federal Housing Finance Agency roiled the housing industry in August, when it announced the surprise fee would take effect Sept. 1. After an outcry from Realtors, mortgage bankers and housing economists, the agency backed off a bit — it delayed the fee until Dec. 1, and it said the surcharge wouldn’t be due on loans of less than $125,000. Calabria said in August that defaults and the generous
mortgage relief extended to borrowers during the coronavirus pandemic would cost Fannie and Freddie $6 billion — a rounding error for two enterprises with a combined $5.7 trillion in their loan portfolios. But Calabria offered little else in defense of the fee. During prepared remarks Monday, he laid out a detailed case. “When I walked in the door at FHFA, Fannie and Freddie were leveraged about 1,000 to 1,” Calabria said. “If the enterprises had still been leveraged 1,000 to 1, they would have already failed in response to COVID. On the other hand, if Fannie and Freddie had more capital when COVID hit, they would have been able to provide even more support.” Calabria, former chief economist to Vice President Mike Pence, took over last year as director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency. The regulator said he has improved the capital position of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
“Fannie and Freddie’s combined leverage ratio is now down to roughly 250 to 1,” Calabria said. “This is certainly better than 1,000 to 1. But it is not close to safety and soundness. In their current condition, Fannie and Freddie will fail in a serious housing downturn.” In one concession, Calabria said he delayed the new fee by three months to give Congress a chance to step in – although he didn’t comment on the likelihood of such a move in the midst of a contentious election. “This recognizes that Congress may take the opportunity to review alternatives,” Calabria said. The new 0.5 percent fee is paid not by borrowers but by lenders. Mortgage lenders have responded by slightly raising rates on refinances. With mortgage rates at record lows, homeowners have flooded lenders with applications for refinances. Visit Bankrate online at www.bankrate.com.
LONGMONT ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS
INDEPENDENT BROKERS MOVING IN? MOVING OUT? MOVING UP? CALL
WENDY CONDER
303-775-0108
weendy@wendyconder.com
Nov. 6-7, 2020
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HOME BUILDING
What to expect during the design and planning phase of building a new home By Rick McAlexander Associated Designs The land and financing are lined up, and the decision has been made: It’s time to build that dream home. But there’s a lot to consider in the time it takes between choosing to build and starting construction, from an initial site analysis to home design, engineering and eventually permitting. The House Plan Company, a home plan marketing company out of Eugene, OR, has teamed up with a couple of their home design experts to share tips for aspiring custom homeowners, to help them navigate through the process and make it a pain-free experience. “Put together a solid team to help with your project. Hiring an experienced and qualified designer and contractor to guide through the decision making process will help avoid frustration and disappointment,” said Rick McAlexander, owner of Associated Designs in Eugene, Oregon. “If there are going to be other team members such as interior decorator or landscape designer they should also be brought into the project early.” McAlexander has helped countless homeowners bring their visions to reality, and seen clients struggle through some of the same trouble spots. Many clients start the process wanting to know exactly how long it will take to get through the planning process and start construction. Designers like Ken Pieper, owner of Ken Pieper Signature Plans in Evergreen, Colorado,
stress patience. It can be typical for six months to pass between a project getting from initial design consultation to the permit application stage. Projects on simple lots may proceed a bit faster, but it is just as likely that the planning phase will take longer. Timelines can also vary by jurisdiction, depending on local regulations. “Creating a new home, if it is designed from the beginning, will take time, and a very liberal amount of patience,” Pieper said. “Should the client purchase a pre-designed house plan, the construction timing can still become a challenge. I always instruct and advise to expect the unexpected. Patience and flexibility are a must.” If a couple are planning the project together, being able to
express clearly what each person wants to accomplish with the home early in the planning process will prevent potentially costly disagreements or second-guesses further along. Impatience or distraction can also lead to important design elements being overlooked. That’s especially true when owners are balancing jobs, families and other life distractions with the challenge of designing a new home. “It is not uncommon to need to gather additional engineering and specifications for your project prior to being able to apply for a building permit,” said McAlexander. “This can add weeks to the project.” For clients working under a narrow construction window, Pieper advises creating a detailed schedule with key milestones to meet, working backwards from
the targeted completion date to the present. Owners investing in a project need to have a clearheaded view of whether their timelines are attainable. Research at the outset can give owners a clearer sense of who the architects, contractors, planning and building officials involved throughout the process are, as well as the key events to check off along the way. “When I meet with my clients, I give them an outline, a schedule of events, individuals and authorities that will be involved during the design and build process of their home,” Pieper said. While a custom build requires careful planning, the rewards of a truly unique home are worth the challenges. And no owner needs to go through the process alone. “It’s never too early to bring in any professional who will be working on the project,” McAlexander said. “Their participation may be limited in the initial phase, but their feedback can be valuable and help avoid delays.” Associated Designs and The House Plan Company are located in Eugene, Oregon. Founded in 1990, Associated Designs has sold more than 60,000 home plans and publishes a weekly home design column in newspapers around the country. The House Plan Company helps to connect leading Architects and Designers throughout the United States with people interested in home design by featuring a variety of house and garage plans. www.associateddesigns.com
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1765/1767 Antero $795,000
Two fully renovated and expanded 4bdr/2.75 bath Longmont units with finished basements and all major components. Leased through July 2022 with same government guarantees and $100,000+ in contracted NOI. MLS# 919741
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AT HOME COLORADO
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2317 Glacier Court Lafayette 622 Coronado Place Longmont 7611 Pierce Street Open Sun 1-4pm $1,249,900 New Listing! $515,000 New Listing! Spread out w/ 5 bedrms + unfinished basement. Welcome Home...Move right in! New Home. Spectacular Mountain Views. www.622.wkre.com www.TrailRidgeWest.com www.7611.wkre.com Rebecca Weihe: 303-903-3231 Paul Calcagno: 303-579-6463 Dana Hunt: 303-709-4443
880 35th Street Under Contract Updated 3 bed, 2 bath + garage. www.880.wkre.com Rachel Weinberg: 303-541-1913
Boulder $635,000
415 Monico Gardens Drive Evans 3 Bed, 3 Bath $172,000 Great investor/cash buyer townhouse in Evans! www.415.wkre.com Jitka Siguenza: 415-314-8839
Arvada $480,000
2835 15th Street Boulder 8083 Valmont Road Boulder New Listing! $1,800,000 New Listing! $2,995,000 Design details define this gorgeous home. Set on 5 acres w/jaw dropping views! www.2835.wkre.com www.8083.wkre.com Tracy Zaik: 303-859-7271 Liz Benson: 303-589-8957
1921 Panorama Circle Longmont County Road 39 4 Bed, 7 Bath $1,986,000 Land Mid Century Modern in Old Town Longmont. 70 Acres 1 Mile East of Eaton. www.1921.wkre.com www.cr39.wkre.com Chris Haught: 303-947-4074 Elliot Pappas: 970-214-2667
Eaton $840,000
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REALTOR FOR LIFE
What it takes to fix-and-flip – Part 2 Fix-and-flips are beloved home show staples, and they make these ventures look easy and highly profitable – but are they? In my previous article, “What BY DUANE It takes To FixDUGGAN and-Flip – Part Realtor and Author RE/MAX of Boulder 1,” I discussed building a team of experts, which you will need as you move forward with any property renovation. I also provided a Cost Analysis Worksheet to help you assess the costs of the fix up. Here are additional areas you will need to consider as you think carefully about undertaking a fixand-flip. Picking the right neighborhood •
Is another fix-up being done there?
•
Check the quality of schools and amenities such as shopping and other services.
•
What is the crime rate and type of crimes?
Purchase price of the property Once you find a property, you can analyze the cost of the fix-up and the value after the property has been renovated to determine the maximum you can pay and still make a profit. In addition to fix-up expenses, you need to keep in mind that you will have acquisition costs, selling expenses, and taxes, if you make a profit. You can use the form below to estimate your selling expenses. Acquisition expenses for a permanent loan include: • • • • • • • • • • • •
Loan fees Appraisal Tax service fee Title insurance for lender Tax certificate Recording fees State doc fee Insurance Misc. lender fees Interest proration Tax and insurance reserves Short-term commercial loans
Nov. 6-7, 2020
Short-term financing Sometimes it is more economical to make an arrangement with a commercial banker to provide short- term financing while the property is being renovated. With a short-term commercial loan, you would hopefully be able to have the home resold before the loan comes due. This way you would never have to apply for a permanent loan on the property. Selling the property quickly Make the potential buyer say “WOW!” as they walk in the door. Almost every buyer who says “WOW!” when they walk in the door will end up buying the house. Therefore, your goal should be to make them say “WOW!” from the curb and then again as they walk through the front door. Ask yourself what it will take to design the maximum amount of curb appeal? What will it take to make the kitchen and bath “sizzle”? What will it take to make the house light and bright?
short-term loan for improvements 3.
Short-term loan to purchase, possibly borrow for construction expenses
4.
Permanent loan to keep and hold
RE/MAX International: The Lifetime Achievement Award and the Circle of Legends Award. Living the life of a Realtor and being immersed in real estate led to the inception of his book, Realtor for Life. For questions, e-mail DuaneDuggan@boulderco.com, call 303.441.5611 or visit boulderco.com.
Options for financing the fix-up property 1.
Pay cash for property and cash for fix-up
2.
Pay cash for property, ATHOMECOLORADO.COM
11
COVERPROFILE
Equity Colorado is low on fees and high on agent support By Pam Moore At Home Colorado
T
here are enough real estate brokerages in Northern Colorado to make your head spin. But there’s only one like Equity Colorado, where agents’ fees are low and morale is high. “Our Realtors wonder why agents would work anywhere else,” says Nancy Umbreit, owner and managing broker of Equity Colorado’s Northern Front Range division. Among the many perks of being part of the Equity Colorado team is the commission structure. According to Umbreit, the brokerage takes only $500 per transaction on sales up to three million dollars. In contrast, a typical brokerage would take a much larger chunk. Take a $500,000 property for example. Approximately six percent of that price, or $30,000 would go toward commission fees. As the seller’s agent, for example, you might receive half of that $15,000. Meanwhile your brokerage would be entitled to up to 30 percent of that amount ($4,500), leaving you with $10,500. As an Equity Colorado Realtor, on 12
AT HOME COLORADO
the other hand, you’d get to keep $14,500. How do Equity Colorado let their Realtors keep so much of their commission? “The overhead is very low,” explains Umbreit, who has been with the brokerage since they opened their Northern Colorado office in 2010. With a conveniently sized 1500 square-foot office space at 710 Kimbark St. in Longmont, agents don’t pay for office space or amenities they don’t use. The office is equipped with conference space and a few private offices available for rent. However, with the ability to work from anywhere they can find a WiFi connection and a laptop or a phone, most Realtors have no use for it. “They don’t have to pay for an office if they don’t want to. They also don’t have to pay for a big fancy office for me to sit in,” says Umbreit. “Recent transfers from large brokerages have been pleasantly surprised at how little they miss the resources they were paying for at their prior offices,” she says. At Equity Colorado, a monthly fee of $59 gives Realtors access to the building, errors and omissions insurance, a personalized website
and software to help them run their business. And while they have the opportunity to take part in education offered by the branch, they aren’t required to do so. One popular offering is a mentoring program that’s designed to teach brand new agents “the things they should have learned in school that [schools] never teach.” And while Umbreit strongly encourages her rookies to enroll, she never requires anything that’s not absolutely necessary. “I don’t like the word mandatory,” she explains. The rules, she says, are simple: “Be ethical. Be straight up. Get your paperwork done.” Also, she says her agents are not supposed to sass her. “But they all do,” she says with a laugh. While Umbreit sends out a weekly newsletter to keep her agents apprised of the latest rules and regulations set forth by DORA, the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies and CAR, the Colorado Association of Realtors, she prides herself on letting her agents be autonomous. “I pretty much let my agents all run their own businesses,”
says Umbreit. “I’m not running their business for them. And I have no right to.” While Umbreit gives her agents the independence they desire, she also gives them the support they need. Their low monthly fees include plenty of access to Umbreit, whose wisdom and experience would make her a valuable asset to any Realtor. Over her real estate career, which spans 30 years, she’s worked for other companies and run her own office before joining Equity Colorado. Now, with a ten-year history at Equity Colorado, she’s the longest standing branch manager in Colorado. And she’s happy to share her knowledge with her team whenever they need her. “They have access to me 12 hours a day, seven days a week.” Umbreit is serious not just about knowing real estate; she also prioritizes knowing her team. “My boss says I walk around with my arms around all my agents,” she says with a chuckle. “I want them to enjoy what they do.” While she’s looking to grow her 90-agent brokerage, she doesn’t want to get so big that she loses her personal DAILY CAMERA / TIMES-CALL
connection with her team. “I know every single one of my agents,” she explains. That means knowing their spouses, their kids, and what’s going on in their lives. Some of the agents who leave larger firms to join Equity Colorado say that at their old office “nobody ever knew who I was.” Umbreit has a picture wall in her office where she hangs a photo of every agent along with their business card. “If someone calls me on the phone and I’m not placing their face, I can walk over to that picture wall and now I know who I’m talking to.” A smaller office is conducive not just to building community but also to keeping agents and clients healthy amid the pandemic. Of the office building, she says, “Most of the time it’s just me and my assistant in there.” Not having to come into a large office with many other agents means a greater chance of staying healthy. Moreover, Umbreit makes sure no one is in the building who doesn’t need to be – and that includes custodial staff. Since coronavirus started, she and her assistant have been performing all the cleaning, including frequent wipe-downs of high-touch surfaces. While housekeeping is not an official part of her job, she feels it is necessary in order to make sure agents and clients are safe. Umbreit feels Equity Colorado’s low Realtor turn-over rate is a testament to the supportive environment her brokerage offers. After pausing to ponder where her realtors go when they do leave, this is what she comes up with: Some retire, one left to try growing marijuana, and another left to brew beer. But rarely, she says, does anyone leave for another firm, unless they’re offered a management position. Why? Certainly the generous commission structure plays a role. Also, says Umbreit, “I’ve always got their backs.” Contact Equity Colorado To learn more about working with Equity Colorado in buying or selling your home or to join their team, call Nancy Umbreit at 303.579.0970, or visit the office at 710 Kimbark Street in Longmont. You may also e-mail NancyRealtor@msn.com. Right: Equity Colorado Northern Front Range Agents. Not Pictured: Ryan Cimbura, Craig Francis.
Nov. 6-7, 2020
Equity Colorado - Front Range
Chris Adams
Vernetta Angelo
Diana Bartlett
Ryan Beaver
Alisha Bell
April Berger
Diana Betz
Cliff Bravin
Donna Brooks
Nick Bukowski
Julie Cardinal
June Cardinale
Becky Coet
Evie Cohen
Ashley Colgate
Debbie Conn
Terry Cook
Kathy Cox
Suzy Curtin
Christine Damiano
John Digiallonardo
Mark Dinkelman
Nathaniel Dominguez
Derek Filkins
Carey Fine
Rick Frenzen
Susan Fulton
Elizabeth Gabler
Brad Goeldner
Megan Griffith
Kirsten Gurmendi
Sandy Heikal
Nicole Hembling
Brad Hendrix
Erik Herrmann
Chuck Herring
Dionne Holmquist
Carla Howell
Jesse Iverson
Aaron Jennings
Jennifer Johnson
Kevin Kelly
Penny Johnston
Ann Kasunich
Linda Kerns
Becca Korn
Shirley Lalezari
Jill Langley-Moschkin
Adele LaRiviere
Diane Liebert
Noelle Lopez
Mitchell Magdovitz
Karen McDonald
Sharon McGonigal
Sally Megery
Kristine Merrill
Meredith Mitchell
Diane Morehead
Jeremy Moyer
Joe Mulder
Jennifer Munson
Trevor Nelson
Ben Netzal
Jan Nowak
Jennifer Palermo
Kathy Payne
Emily Phillips
Derrick Printz
Laurie Radatz
Suzanne Rodgers
Bruce Royer
Pam Ruddy
Stephen Schaller
Jon Schoonover
Jim Schutz
Bill Shaub
Bob Showman
Brent Sommervold
Brenna Stoner
Stephanie Vermeer
David Wagner
Susan Wang
Diane White
Jody Whitmore
James Wilkie
Michael Wreath
Monica Zweck
ATHOMECOLORADO.COM
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Shopping Categories Will Include, But Are Not Limited To:
Attention Local Crafters, Artisans & Shoppers! Shop Our Virtuaal Holiday Arts & Crafts Fairr!
OPENS:
Sun.., No ov. 15 – Thurs., Dec. 24 4 The Colo orado Holiday Arts & Crafts Fair will show wcase traditional and contemporaryy handmad de goo ods of local makers, designers and artisans in a virtual shopping eventt.
Visit www.ColoradoDealz.com Sunday, Nov. 15 to start shopping!
Antiques Art & Collectiblles / Pottery, Paintings, Sculpture Apparel/Vintag ge Clothing Cards/Statione ery Foods/Package ed and Specia ality tyy Games/Toys Glass Home Decor Holiday Decor Jewelry Photography Quilting/Needlework Soaps/Candless/Essential Oils Textiles Woodworking Promotion acrosss the Front Ra ange includes: • List of participating vendorrs snapshots of available items (rotated throughout promotion) • Targeted sociial media marrketing • Targeted digiital marketing
A Robust, Safe and Convenient Shopping Experience • • • •
Shop by Vend dor or Catego ory Transactions are direct from m vendor to consumer Place custom orders Ability tyy to inquire directly to o a vendor through their page or theirr individual prroducts
Interested in becoming a vendor? For Info ormation, Call Lindsayy Hainnes at 970.392.5 5637 14
AT HOME COLORADO
DAILY CAMERA / TIMES-CALL
Thinking of Moving? Check out these great homes and many more at:
-2 12 Sat n e Op
NEW BUILD ON .95 ACRE W/ VIEWS 7585 Eggleston Dr BOULDER $1,900,000, 4 Beds, 4 Baths, 2984 SqFt
GREAT PANORAMIC VIEWS 4480 N 109th St LAFAYETTE $1,880,000, 4 Beds, 4 Baths, 5849 SqFt
Fri en Op
PROSPECT W/ CARRIAGE HOUSE 913 Tempted Ways Dr LONGMONT $1,250,000, 7 Beds, 5 Baths, 3908 SqFt
2 ACRES JUST OUTSIDE BOULDER 4743 Jay Rd BOULDER $1,315,000, 3 Beds, 1 Bath, 1757 SqFt Jim Thomas 720-317-9621
MINUTES FROM PEARL STREET 3345 Broadway St BOULDER $875,000, 3 Beds, 3 Baths, 1703 SqFt
1+ ACRE IN PONY ESTATES 12543 Dillon Rd BROOMFIELD $800,000, 4 Beds, 4 Baths, 3176 SqFt
RANCH NESTLED ON 3.53 ACRES 10141 County Road 14 1/2 FORT LUPTON $575,000, 3 Beds, 3 Baths, 1706 SqFt
ALL BRICK ENGLISH COTTAGE 421 Francis St LONGMONT $469,000, 3 Beds, 2 Baths, 1848 SqFt
BACKS TO PARK & GREENBELT 13889 Cook St THORNTON $409,900, 3 Beds, 3 Baths, 1885 SqFt
2 STORY W/ FINISHED BASEMENT 438 Heritage Ln JOHNSTOWN $398,000, 4 Beds, 4 Baths, 1839 SqFt
2-4 Sat & 3-5
WASHINGTON VILLAGE CONDO 1231 Cedar Ave 1231 BOULDER $1,230,000, 2 Beds, 4 Baths, 2546 SqFt AJ Chamberlin 303-588-8999
Sat en Op
SPACIOUS & OPEN MAIN FLOOR LIVING 2838 S Fig St LAKEWOOD $750,000, 6 Beds, 3 Baths, 3763 SqFt
QUIET, SERENE & PEACEFUL 5380 N Lariat Dr CASTLE ROCK $1,599,000, 11 Beds, 9 Baths, 5502 SqFt
-2 12 un S &
BRIGHT & UNIQUE W/ MOUNTAIN VIEWS 8359 S Allison St LITTLETON $585,000, 4 Beds, 3 Baths, 2917 SqFt Kamila Bobrova 720-670-6758
-2 12 at nS e Op
1-3 at nS e Op
PROSPECT LOFT 2017 100 Year Party Ct 5 LONGMONT $450,000, 2 Beds, 3 Baths, 1498 SqFt Suzy Williamson 720-491-9885
A GREAT DEAL JUST GOT BETTER 849 Widgeon Cir LONGMONT $439,900, 3 Beds, 3 Baths, 2177 SqFt Carl Oldham 303-931-6211
30 -2: :30 2 1 Sat en Op
TURN-KEY W/ NEW PAINT & CARPETS 963 Laramie Blvd 8-E BOULDER $389,500, 1 Bed, 1 Bath, 740 SqFt
QUIET CUL-DE-SAC LOCATION 119 Caribou Pl LONGMONT $379,900, 3 Beds, 2 Baths, 1 Car Garage
Boulder 303.499.9880
Downtown Longmont 303.651.3939
On Walnut 303.442.3180
Nederland 303.258.7020
4770 Baseline Rd #220 Boulder, CO 80303
1911 11th St #200 Boulder, CO 80302 Nov. 6-7, 2020
512 4th Ave #101 Longmont, CO 80501
Lafayette 303.497.0588
109 N Public Rd Lafayette, CO 80026
CUTE RANCH ON .4 ACRE LOT 108 E Rogers Rd LONGMONT $350,000, 2 Beds, 1 Bath, 1037 SqFt Amy O'Donnell 303-916-5161
LARGE MASTER W/ OVERSIZED CLOSET 6844 Countryside Ln 284 NIWOT $339,000, 2 Beds, 2 Baths, 896 SqFt
View these homes online! rem.ax/bocohomes
286 N Bridge St Nederland, CO 80466 ATHOMECOLORADO.COM
15
DESIGN RECIPES
How to create looks that sell
By Cathy Hobbs Tribune News Service
to have stand out. Reveal, don’t conceal.
When it comes time to sell your home, you are going to want to ensure that it not only sells in the shortest amount of time, but that it also sells for top dollar. What are buyers looking for? While the must-haves may vary depending on the area, some general guidelines can help savvy sellers garner an offer. Looking to place your house on the market? Here are some top tips.
Neutralize Many potential buyers are turned off by personal colors.
Perform basic repairs Most potential buyers see even the smallest items as worry, work and money. A savvy seller will be best served removing any worry. Deep clean Many potential buyers see dirt and grime as a sign of a house that may be in poor condition. Highlight your home’s best features Perhaps it has a gorgeous view, wood molding or trim you wish
Clear the clutter From too much furniture to odds and ends, be sure to purge before placing your house on the market. Add light If you have lots of windows, that is a plus. But if you don’t, adding lots of light can go a long way. Most buyers prefer spaces that are light-filled. High-end wood trims and features create a luxury look in this living space.
Swap hardwood for carpet, if possible Most buyers prefer hardwood flooring over carpet.
(Design Recipes/TNS)
Hire a professional stager Staging involves showcasing a home so it appeals to the most amount of potential buyers. It’s a powerful marketing and selling tool.
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999!
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property stands out in a crowd. Cathy Hobbs, based in New York City, is an Emmy Awardwinning television host and a nationally known interior design and home staging expert with offices in New York City, Boston and Washington, D.C. Contact her at info@cathyhobbs.com or visit her website at cathyhobbs.com.
Paint If you spend money on nothing else to sell your home, this is the one must-do. Shop your competition Most potential buyers will not just come to see your home, they will shop other similar properties. You will want to make sure your
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AT HOME COLORADO
DAILY CAMERA / TIMES-CALL
QUICK GUIDE
OPEN HOUSES // VIRTUAL TOURS LIST YOUR OPEN HOUSE OR VIRTUAL TOUR: Boulder 1031 Portland Place 4 $699,900 Saturday 11:00 AM-1:00 PM Brian Sundberg RE/MAX of Boulder (303) 931-5483 6013 Brandywine Court $814,900 Sunday 1:30 PM-3:00 PM Andrew Muller RE/MAX of Boulder (303) 434-6633 7703 S. Boulder Rd. $890,000 Saturday 12:00 PM-3:00 PM Sara M Oclassen 8Z Real Estate (303) 818-1998
VISIT OPENHOMES.ATHOMECOLORADO.COM OR CALL 303.473.1456, 303.684.5329
842 16th Street $1,390,000 Saturday 11:00 AM-3:00 PM Jeff Erickson LIV Sotheby’s International Realty (303) 589-2741
2317 Glacier Court $1,249,900 Sunday 1:00 PM-4:00 PM Paul Calcagno WK Real Estate (303) 579-6463
Greeley
Littleton
39477 Hilltop Circle $1,090,000 Sunday 1:00 AM-3:00 PM Maurine Garretson Realty ONE Group Fourpoints (970) 396-9597
8359 S Allison St $585,000 Saturday 12:00 PM-2:00 PM Kamila Bobrova RE/MAX Alliance (720) 670-6758
2408 Summerlin Drive From $1.2M Sunday 12:00 PM-4:00 PM Bosch Real Estate Group Brian Terry (303) 845-0949
Lafayette
8359 S Allison St $585,000 Sunday 12:00 PM-2:00 PM Kamila Bobrova RE/MAX Alliance (720) 670-6758
Louisville
675 Amelia Lane From mid-$400K’s Saturday 11:00 AM-5:00 PM Markel Homes Marlita Lazo (303) 651-9565
Longmont
7703 S. Boulder Rd. $890,000 Sunday 12:00 PM-3:00 PM Sara M Oclassen 8Z Real Estate (303) 818-1998
675 Amelia Lane From mid-$400K’s Sunday 11:00 AM-5:00 PM Markel Homes Marlita Lazo (303) 651-9565
5801 Grandville Avenue (Sales Center) From mid $400K’s Saturday 11:00 AM-5:00 PM Markel Homes Roz Pinon (720) 583-2170
1231 Cedar Ave 1231 $1,230,000 Friday 3:00 PM-5:00 PM AJ Chamberlin RE/MAX Alliance (303) 588-8999
928 Cimarron Drive (Sales Center) $475,900 Saturday 11:00 AM-5:00 PM Markel Homes Tracy Carruth (720) 324-8350
5801 Grandville Avenue (Sales Center) From mid $400K’s Sunday 11:00 AM-5:00 PM Markel Homes Roz Pinon (720) 583-2170
1231 Cedar Ave 1231 $1,230,000 Saturday 2:00 PM-4:00 PM AJ Chamberlin RE/MAX Alliance (303) 588-8999
1708 Dusty Boot Drive $775,000 Saturday 12:00 PM-2:00 PM Sara Oclassen 8Z Real Estate (303) 818-1998
849 Widgeon Cir $439,900 Saturday 12:00 PM-2:00 PM Carl Oldham RE/MAX Alliance (303) 931-6211
4743 Jay Rd $1,315,000 Saturday 12:00 PM-2:00 PM Jim Thomas RE/MAX Alliance (720) 317-9621
1708 Dusty Boot Drive $775,000 Sunday 12:00 PM-2:00 PM Sara Oclassen 8Z Real Estate (303) 818-1998
2017 100 Year Party Ct 5 $450,000 Saturday 1:00 PM-3:00 PM Suzy Williamson RE/MAX Alliance (720) 491-9885
Nov. 6-7, 2020
2408 Summerlin Drive From $1.2M Saturday 12:00 PM-4:00 PM Bosch Real Estate Group Brian Terry (303) 845-0949
937 Grove Drive $775,000 Sunday 12:00 PM-2:00 PM Alicia Miller RE/MAX of Boulder (303) 818-0954
Loveland 1520 Pennsylvania St $444,900 Saturday 12:00 PM-1:30 PM Debbie Patridge Sears Real Estate (303) 601-1330 610 West 5th Street $650,000 Saturday 1:00 PM-4:00 PM Michael Nicholson Home Savings Realty (970) 691-8429
Superior 501 - 539 Canary Lane Starting at $895,000 Thursday 12:00 PM-6:00 PM Eric Stjernholm Trelora Real Estate (720) 572-1397 ATHOMECOLORADO.COM
17
ASK ANGIE’S LIST
How can I transform unused space? By Paul F. P. Pogue Angie's List With winter coming on and a year where you've probably been inside more than usual, it's an ideal time to rethink how you use your existing space. You can find many uses for those areas of your home that may have gone to waste until now. Combat cabin fever with these relatively simple home upgrades. As an added bonus, contractors who do this kind of work are in the middle of their slow periods, which means you can often hire quickly and get a good deal on materials and labor. Reclaim your crawlspace Repurpose this overlooked corner of your home by turning it into a storage area. The most important step is installing a vapor barrier, which will stop moisture from entering your home through the space's damp dirt floors. This option isn't for everyone, so consult a professional waterproofing service to see what's possible for you. Expect to pay between $1,500 and $3,000
or any other idea you can think of. You can even convert a spare bedroom into the luxurious walkin closet of your dreams.
A guest bedroom can be converted to a spacious walk-in closet. (Photos: Dreamstime/TNS)
for this service. Upgrade your spare bedroom Convert your spare bedroom into a space you and your whole family can enjoy. An interior decorator can turn your longdelayed dreams into a reality with a decor plan, materials and installation. Your options can include a workout room, craft room, a meditative reading area,
Rethink your unfinished basement If your basement is unfinished and underused, don't wait any longer to maximize its potential! Set up that home theater you've been dreaming of, or add a guest bed and bath to take full advantage of the extra square footage. Alternatively, install a game room for family time and relaxation. Basement refinishing costs an average of about $10,000, but it's well worth it due to the comfort and utility it adds to your home, not to mention interest from buyers if you ever sell. Odd nooks and crannies Perhaps you have a large bedroom and dream of an elaborate window seat. Maybe a well-placed breakfast nook could breathe new life into your kitchen. You can install built-in shelving in otherwise unused space to add both functionality and beauty.
A remodeling or interior design pro can help create a space that's both eye-catching and functional. Bonus round: Prevent package theft this season Online shopping is easier than ever, but that convenience comes with a cost in security. Fortunately, you can take steps to prevent gifts from vanishing before they make it through the door. Internetenabled doorbell cameras are getting more affordable; some cost less than $100. Many shippers now give you options to customize delivery times to make sure you're there to receive the package. You can require a signature to make sure the delivery makes it straight into your hands. A locking drop box provides perhaps the most safety; it can be bolted to your home or the porch. Expect to pay between $100 and $250 depending on the size of the box. Paul F. P. Pogue is a reporter for Angie's List, a trusted provider of local consumer reviews and an online marketplace of services from top-rated providers. Visit AngiesList.com.
Excellent service should not cost more, it should be expected! Thinking of selling?
I offer a very comprehensive and competitive marketing package; and my consultations are always free!
Te Taydus Terri
A fresh approach to real estate Assisting buyers & sellers since 2010
Voted Boulder County Gold Best Realtor & Runner Up since 2018
A percentage of my annual commission is donated to Blue Sky Bridge in Boulder Terri Taydus, GRI, CNE
18
AT HOME COLORADO
DAILY CAMERA / TIMES-CALL
THE
PATRICK DOLAN TEAM
Thinking about buying or selling? Call us today: (303) 441-5642
NEW LISTING!
NICELY UPDATED!
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CO-HOUSING!
1.55 ACRE LOT!
1106 SPENCER ST, LONGMONT 3 BD • 2 BA • 1,420 SF • $465,000
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3 BD • 3 BA • 1,608 SF • $650,000 Wonderfully updated with great amenities!
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patrick-dolan.com
patrickdolanteam@gmail.com ATHOMECOLORADO.COM
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v
Elliott Apartments are located in a historic residential neighborhood in Longmont, Colorado. Just two blocks from beautiful main street Longmont, Elliott Apartments has easy access to shopping, restaurants, and entertainment.
Offering 1, 2, and 3 bedroom apartments.
418 Emery St. Longmont • (303) 772-6452 JUST LISTED!
5681 Legacy Pkwy | Dacono
$365,000 3 Bed, 2 Bath, 1485 Sq. Ft. Welcome Home! Open floor plan designed for entertaining
Listed By Nicola (Nicki) Arnold REALTOR® 303-656-8148 nicki.arnold@coloradohomes.com
Drive traffic to your virtual tour or open house Increase your exposure with AtHomeColorado’s Quick Guide. The targeted buyer promotion includes a print listing, online interactive listing with driving directions, alerts and Facebook marketing. To place your listing, visit:
openhomes.athomecolorado.com
(scroll to the bottom for the order link).
MAKE ONE OF THESE GREAT PROPERTIES YOURS! 138 Acres of Vacant Land!
3.3 Acres Perfect for Horses!
43 Acres With Views!
Borders National Forest!
4151 Wilderland Way, Loveland $900,000 • MLS# 877823 Approved for Multiple Residences!
671 Eiger Road, Livermore $79,500 • MLS# 920886
2312 Saddle Notch Road, Loveland $250,000 • MLS# 921582
2324 Saddle Notch Rd, Loveland $275,000 • MLS# 915813
Take a look at this 3.3 acre gently sloping lot with a great building site in Glacier View Meadows! FA1 Farming zoning allows for many uses including but not limited to equestrian and residential!
Looking for land with Views? This 43 acre property 35 minutes from Loveland backs to National Forest and can be combined with the neighboring lot for 79 acres total!
Looking for land with Views and National Forest access? Now available are these 36 wooded acres just 35 minutes to the West of Loveland!
Private Roads – By Appointment Only.
Private Roads – By Appointment Only.
138 Acres of Vacant Land bordering Devil’s Backbone Open Space! Only 15 minutes to Downtown Loveland but feels like a world away! Call for more details or to schedule a tour!
I AM YOUR MOUNTAIN PROPERTY SPECIALIST!
970-231-4172 • jfeeney@c3-re.com My marketing can get your property sold…Contact me now and receive a FREE market analysis!
www.RealEstateInNorthernColorado.com Information deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. © 2017 C3 Real Estate Solution, LLC.
20
AT HOME COLORADO
DAILY CAMERA / TIMES-CALL
Boulder’s Independent Real Estate Professionals
7097 Jay Rd $1,495,000
14 acres, water rights, and 3-bed home.
8249 N 39th St $2,995,000
2 homes on 37 acres with Lefthand Creek and water rights.
12800 Foothills Highway $1,975,000
11715 Vermillion Rd $1,050,000
4.8 acres, water rights, privacy and views.
Trees, excellent water rights and 5400 sq ft home on 19 acres.
Secondary Residences
6775 Ute Highway $2,400,000
Secluded, irrigated, 35-acre farm. Renovated home. Nov. 6-7, 2020
Let’s face it: the population pressure on the Front Range is inexorable. Those of us already ensconced here will resist change. We love the open space created by Local Government policies; we like to be able to ride our bikes down relatively quiet roads; we appreciate the wildlife, the fresh air. But where will it go from here? Inevitably, roads will become busier and workers will be commuting further to work from affordable accommodation locations since, under current regulations, they are precluded from living on most properties and cannot afford prices in the major cities. Perhaps we need to rethink the rules. Allowing more relaxed protocols regarding secondary residential developments on properties of substantial acreage for those who help to work the land or otherwise simply wish to live independently but close to a family member makes sense. It is time to reconsider the regs, but with an open mind.
10650 N 75th St $1,050,000
19.66 acres, pond, water rights and views.
303.444.3177 klrealty.net team@klrealty.net ATHOMECOLORADO.COM
21
HOME GARDEN
Fall rodent visitors By Sharon Bokan Colorado State University Extension Boulder County
As the weather cools and bears are headed to hibernation, mice may be seeking the warmth of your home and voles may be setting up their homes in your landscaping. How do you keep these unwanted visitors out of your house and protect your landscape plants? Start inside the house by storing food in rodent proof containers. Store cereal, rice, flour, noodles, chips and other foods in either metal or heavy plastic containers with tight lids. Immediately clean up any food spills. Keep the area where you feed your pets clean and don’t leave their food out after they have finished eating. Make sure that you do the same in your garage if you store pet, bird or poultry feed there. Metal trash cans with tight fittings lids work well to keep rodents out of livestock feed. Exclusion is essential to keep mice out of the house. Check around your house for openings
As the weather cools and bears are headed to hibernation, mice may be seeking the warmth of your home and voles may be setting up their homes in your landscaping. (Photo: Shutterstock).
where mice can enter. Mice can squeeze their bodies through a ¼” diameter hole, basically the size of a pencil eraser. One of the most likely places for them to enter is an opening around the pipes in your house. Start by finding where pipes come through
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the foundation or walls and under sinks. The opening in the foundation, wall or cabinet base is normally larger than the pipe diameter and the pipe is a great pathway into or around the home. The easiest way to close these openings is to stuff steel wool into the opening. You can use a spray foam insulation to secure the steel wool in place. Don’t use the foam by itself as mice like to chew on it. You need the combination to keep them out. Look around your foundation for cracks or other openings that are ¼” diameter or larger. You can repair those cracks or openings using steel wool and caulking or foam. For any vents (i.e. dryer vent or other air vent) that are near to the ground, cover them with heavy duty screen material (also known as hardware cloth) with openings of ¼” or less. Another rodent that you may
have problems with over the winter is the vole. While they most likely will not enter your home, they can damage or kill landscape plants. Vole damage tends to be cyclical with more damage occurring during those years when we have snow cover lingering for longer periods. The voles make tunnels under the snow and avoid being caught by their predators. For the plants that you can protect such as shrubs and young trees, enclose the trunk with heavy duty screen with less than ¼” size openings. If you can, bury the screen a couple of inches deep into the soil. Mature trees do not need to be protected as their bark is thick enough to keep voles from chewing on them. During the winter when we have snow cover, voles create tunnels under the snow and chew on the lower bark and roots of young trees and shrubs. If you have shrubs like junipers with branches laying on the ground, remove the lower branches so that a predator such as a fox or your pet can get to the voles. Doing one last fall mowing of your lawn also helps to keep voles from doing as much damage. If you live near an open field or open space, you can expect to have more problems with both rodents. There’s a limit to what you can do if you live in this situation with exclusion being your best tool. Pets, cats and dogs, can help by hazing the rodents and providing a “predator” odor around your property. Sharon is the Small Acreage Coordinator at Colorado State University Extension Boulder County. For more information call 303.678.6176, e-mail sbokan@bouldercounty.org or visit ext.colostate.edu/boulder.
RENTAL SPOTLIGHT Your Guide to Rental Communities in Boulder, Broomfield, Larimer and Weld Counties
AtHomeColorado.com/Rentals Complex Name The View on 26th
Address
Type
Rent
$1,943 1853 26th Street Apartments per month Boulder, CO 80302
Bed/Bath 2 Bed, 2 Bath
Description Choosing to live in apartments in Boulder means opting for beautiful scenery, a vibrant social scene and a quick commute to both the mountains and the city. The View on 26th offers you all that and more. Join friends by the pool or at our clubhouse, with free WiFi and a coffee bar, while you plan how to make the most of your day. From sunrise to sunset, the iconic peaks are stunning from your large apartment windows or personal patio. Secluded and serene, yet incredibly close to the 29th St. Mall and all the fun of Boulders dining and shopping scene, The View on 26th is just that—the perfect place in the heart of everything you love.
Other Amenities
Information
Pet Friendly, Newly Renovated Clubhouse, Doggy Park, Fire Pit, Laundry Facilities
303-447-179 theviewon26th.com
To list your rental or community call Thais Hafer at 303.473.1456 or e-mail hafert@dailycamera.com 22
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FAIR HOUSING NOTICE All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Law which makes it illegal to advertise a preference limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion , sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or an intention to make any such preferences, limitation or discrimination. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination, call The Colorado Civil Rights Office at 1-800-262-4845/ HUD at 1-800-669-9777.
Want to purchase minerals and other oil/gas interests. Send details to: P.O. Box 13557, Denver, CO 80201
Rentals
For Lease: 1800 sq ft. Office space 350 sq ft, warehouse1450 sq ft. Located at 502 2nd. St., Berthoud. $960 per month. Welders and mechanics need not inquire. Contact Rene Lee 970-221-0997.
Room for Rent in South Longmont. $600/month to month. No Pets. No Smoking. 720-218-5587
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303.466.3636 BOULDER/BROOMFIELD/LONGMONT 970.635.3650 LOVELAND
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