At Home Colorado - Boulder County Edition

REAL ESTATE

Real Estate News, Open Home Listings, Homes for Sale, Rentals and More!

BOULDER COUNTY

HISTORY COMES HOME in an Impeccable Restoration

One of Boulder’s Most Beautiful Historic Homes Now Available

Open Homes and Virtual Tour Quick Guide

Real Estate: How Trees Add Value To Your Home

Lawn and Garden: Lawns Browning from Heat

Looking for a home? View comprehensive listings of local virtual tours and open houses taking place from all across the area.

Mature trees add that “curb appeal” factor. It’s hard to quantify this value, but trees unmistakably attract buyers and help encourage a higher price.

When the heat switched on, Colorado lawns stressed and brown spots in yards are blooming faster than the roses.

July 30-31, 2021

ATHOMECOLORADO.COM

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MORTGAGE NEWS COLORADO HOME AND REAL ESTATE

ATHOMECOLORADO.COM CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Zach Wichter Carol O’Meara Mary Hill Tom Kalinski Duane Duggan Sarah Huber Mary Lynn Bruny Paul F. P. Pogue Kiersten Willis Cathy Hobbs ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Thais Hafer Toni McNeill Elvonney Poole Mary Romano MANAGING EDITOR/ DESIGNER Greg Stone

EDITORIAL

At Home Colorado is a weekly publication designed for the Colorado home and real estate community. The Boulder County edition publishes Friday in the Boulder Daily Camera and Saturday in the Longmont Times-Call.

The Northern Colorado edition publishes Saturday in the Greeley Tribune and Loveland Reporter-Herald. Submit news releases and articles to: gstone@prairiemountainmedia.com.

ADVERTISING

To advertise in At Home or to promote your virtual home tour visit AtHomeColorado.com/Advertise, call Thais Hafer at 303.473.1456, Toni McNeill at 303.684.5329 or Elvonney Poole at 970.392.5645.

At Home is an advertising feature of the Boulder Daily Camera, Greeley Tribune, Longmont Times-Call and Loveland Reporter-Herald. ©2021 Prairie Mountain Media.

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Why now is the time to consolidate your mortgage and HELOC

By Zach Wichter Bankrate.com (TNS)

Homeowners have another opportunity to take advantage of a mortgage rate fire sale these days as a variety of economic factors and the Federal Housing Finance Agency’s decision to eliminate the refinance fee are all coming together to push the mortgage market back down.

One strategy for benefiting from these conditions could be to refinance your mortgage and wrap any home equity debt you have — like a home equity loan or a home equity line of credit (HELOC) — into the new loan. Here’s why doing that could save you money in the long run.

Why you should consider consolidating your home equity and mortgage Mortgage interest rates are generally lower than those on home equity products, and with mortgage rates poised to fall even further in the near term, it’s a great chance to scale back your higherinterest debt.

For now, Federal Reserve policy is meant to promote low interest rates, but most experts expect that to shift as the COVID recovery continues.

“When the Fed does start raising rates, the first rate to go up is the home equity rate,” said Melissa Cohn, executive mortgage banker at William Raveis Mortgage.

“Your home equity loan has only one way to go: up.”

Home equity loans and lines of credit are more susceptible to fluctuations in the market, because those products tend to have adjustable rates, while primary mortgages more commonly have their interest fixed at a single rate over the life of the loan.

“We’re in the final innings of this extraordinary low-rate environment,” Cohn said, so borrowers with adjustable-rate loans have only a matter of time before their payments start going up. “Wouldn’t you want to refinance your whole loan to a mortgage where your rate is secure?”

How does the end of the refinance fee affect this consolidation strategy?

Homeowners have another opportunity to take advantage of a mortgage rate fire sale these days as a variety of economic factors and fee changes are coming together to push the mortgage market back down. (Photo: Dreamstime/TNS).

“It’s huge,” Cohn said. “You got the gold ring on top of it. Not only have bond yields dropped, but so has the cost of borrowing because we got rid of that fee.”

The refinance fee of 0.5 percent of the loan’s balance was levied on most mortgage overhauls since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

It applied to conforming loans held by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, with a principal balance of at least $125,000.

The end of the fee on Aug. 1 will make it easier for borrowers to consolidate their debt, especially if doing so would have put them on the wrong side of that $125,000 threshold. The fee was paid by lenders, and many of them chose to pass just some of the cost on to borrowers, so it’s not clear if anyone will see the full half-point in savings when they refi.

How to consolidate your debt The easiest way to consolidate your mortgage and home equity debt is to do a cash-out refinance of your primary mortgage, and use the extra funds to pay off the balance you’re carrying on your HELOC or loan.

Check out Bankrate’s mortgage refinance calculator to see how much you might be able to save.

If you have enough equity in your home, you may be able to

keep the line of credit open, even after paying it off, according to Cohn.

“The benefit of a home equity loan is that it gives it access to your home equity at a moment’s notice,” she said. “You may not be required to close it out.”

For homeowners, a HELOC can be a great source of emergency cash if unexpected major expenses pop up, in addition to being a smart way to fund home improvement projects.

Keep in mind that if your lender does require you to close out your HELOC, which many probably will as part of a refinance, you’ll no longer have access to that equity unless you choose to open another line of credit later on.

Bottom line Mortgage rates are heading down again, and while the historic lows won’t last forever, the trend is giving borrowers renewed opportunities to benefit.

If you haven’t already refinanced, or if you’re carrying multiple mortgages on your home, now is a great time to crunch the numbers and consider pursuing a lower interest rate, and consolidating some debt.

Visit Bankrate online at bankrate.com.

BOULDER DAILY CAMERA / LONGMONT TIMES CALL

LAWN AND GARDEN

Lawns browning from heat

What a difference a high pressure ridge makes.

After a cool, rainy warmup to the season, gardeners are shocked to face scorching hot temperatures that broil our

BY CAROL gardens and lawns. The high O’MEARA pressure system parked overhead is pulling the heat up from the south and there is nothing our plants can do but weather the heat.

When the heat switched on, lawns stressed, with Kentucky Bluegrass going dormant to escape the near-hundred degree temperatures. Brown spots in yards are blooming faster than the roses. In most cases, the reason for browning is lack of water.

Until the temperatures cool down, help your lawn by giving your irrigation system a quick once-over, looking for broken or tilted sprayers, blockages caused by overgrown plants, or heads sheared off by mowing. Turn the

When the heat switched on, Colorado lawns stressed, with Kentucky Bluegrass going dormant to escape the near-hundred degree temperatures. Brown spots in yards are blooming faster than the roses. (Photo: Shutterstock).

sprinkler system on and closely examine the toss of water from each head and look to see if the water from one head is reaching the sprinkler next to it. This headto-head coverage is critical for good irrigation coverage. Make sure that the arcs of water reach close to, mid-point- and far from the head.

If you’re standing behind a sprinkler head it will be easy to tell if it’s pointed the wrong way, because you’ll be getting a shower.

Choose a warm part of the day to conduct a sprinkler check.

In general, a Kentucky bluegrass

lawn needs approximately twoand-a-half inches of water each week, split into several different days of watering. Water deeply by having the sprinklers deliver one to one-and-a-half inches of water per irrigation.

Other factors may add to lawn woes, such as sod that has been placed on poorly prepared soil.

When soil is compacted and sod is laid on top, roots barely sink in, growing instead in the thatch layer.

Like a turf toupee, these lawns can be lifted from the ground easily by pulling up on the grass. Since thatch doesn’t hold moisture well,

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the grass is constantly thirsty.

Avoid this problem by spending time on preparing the soil for sod, making certain to incorporate compost into the ground.

With any change in irrigation, be alert to signs of trouble.

Lawns don’t need water every day, and if you are running your sprinklers that often you may need professional help. Check your lawn before increasing water to it by walking across it the afternoon before watering is scheduled. If the footprints stay visible 30 minutes or longer after walking on it, the grass is drying out a little too much in between watering.

Carol A. O’Meara is an Extension Agent – Horticulture Entomology at Colorado State University Extension Boulder County. For more information contact CSU Extension at the Boulder County Fairgrounds, 9595 Nelson Road, Box B, Longmont, 303.678.6377, e-mail comeara@bouldercounty.org or visit ext.colostate.edu/boulder.

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July 30-31, 2021

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REAL ESTATE NEWS

Boulder County real estate market report, July 2021

The Boulder County real estate market continues to sizzle with prices of single family homes (SFR) up an average of 34 percent compared to

BY MARY HILL June 2020.

However, prices are down an average of $37,000 since May. Boulder In Boulder prices continued their upward trend compared to last June, but the average prices were down $173,000 compared to last month. This indicates that home values are leveling off which corresponds to the 57 percent increase in homes sold compared to June 2020.

Erie Erie saw a continued increase in average home prices compared to June 2020 (up 20 percent) and to May 2021 (up an average of $33,000). The 0.6 month’s supply of homes for sale, down 50 percent from June 2020, makes it difficult for Erie buyers to find a home to purchase.

June 2021 vs. June 2020 Market Statistics For Single Family Homes LOCATION

AVERAGE PRICE % CHANGE

AVERAGE DAYS ON MARKET % CHANGE

NUMBER SOLD % CHANGE

MONTH’S SUPPLY % CHANGE

BOULDER COUNTY

$982,514 UP 33.6

32 DOWN 49.2

457 UP 15.7

0.9 DOWN 57.1

BOULDER

$1,380,098 UP 19.8

40 DOWN 39.4

152 UP 56.7

1.2 DOWN 65.7

ERIE

$751,616 UP 20.4

13 DOWN 83.1

75 DOWN 17.6

0.6 DOWN 50.0

LAFAYETTE

$940,922 UP 57.7

23 DOWN 58.9

37 UP 15.6

0.5 DOWN 72.2

LONGMONT

$680,059 UP 26.7

26 DOWN 60.0

165 UP 2.5

0.5 DOWN 64.3 (Data courtesy: IRES MLS).

Lafayette The average price of a home in Lafayette had a staggering increase of 57.7 percent compared to a year ago. And, home values there rose $8,000 since May. Longmont One hundred sixty-five single family homes sold in Longmont in June 2021, only a 2.5 percent increase from June 2020.

However, the average prices of homes rose 27 percent during this same timeframe. Additionally,

the price per total square foot increased $14 since May 2021.

Analysis What does this mean for home buyers and sellers? Even though prices on average are down compared to May 2021 sellers will receive much more for their homes than if they had sold in June 2020.

More homes currently are on the market for days versus minutes, giving buyers an opportunity to breathe and more carefully consider whether a house is right for them. And, with prices being a

little less than in previous months they can most likely get more for their money. (The continued low interest rates are also a continued bonus for buyers.)

If you are a homeowner thinking of selling, now is a great time to do so. And, with the increase in inventory you can more easily find a replacement home.

Mary Hill is a Realtor at The Hill Group, Coldwell Banker.

Call 303.808.7796, e-mail cofrontrangelife@gmail.com or visit cofrontrangelife.com.

LUX. Denver announces new Front Range division Denver-based real estate agency expands to new markets DENVER – Colorado’s beautiful scenery and booming economy led to a dominating position in U.S. News’ “Best Places to Live in the U.S. in 2021”. Boulder, Denver, Colorado Springs and Fort Collins took four of the coveted top five spots, foreshadowing a new-age gold rush to the Centennial State as people seek to grab a nugget of the valuable real estate tucked beside the Rocky Mountains.

To help buyers navigate this ever-changing housing landscape, premier boutique real estate agency LUX. Denver announced their new division, LUX. Front Range. LUX. will now bring their expertise in the Colorado housing market to bear on the coveted expanse stretching from Colorado Springs to Fort Collins.

“We’re seeing huge demand for buyers and sellers in this region,” 4

AT HOME COLORADO

LUX. Front Range co-founders Emily Duke and Aaron Cummins.

(Photo: Lux. Denver).

says Emily Duke, co-founder of LUX. Denver. “Every community along this corridor has its own unique personality, so it’s really important to us that we make our expertise available to help people find their perfect home.”

“LUX. has always been about helping people design their ideal lifestyle,” says co-founder Aaron Cummins. “We’re thrilled to have this opportunity to help clients explore the options outside of the Denver Metro area.”

‘Relations over transactions’ is at the core of Cummins and Duke’s practice, who grew tired of antiquated real estate brokerages and their bottom-line drive. As one of the youngest owners of a boutique luxury real estate brokerage in the Denver Metro area, they felt perfectly positioned to be an innovating force for the change they wanted to see in the industry.

Duke and Cummins bring their background in psychology to work with clients to find homes that are perfectly compatible with the lifestyle they’re searching for. LUX. applies its granular knowledge of Colorado’s many idiosyncratic communities to find the spot best suited to them. To

that end, LUX.’s carefully curated team of brokers are selected because of their shared passion for inspiring conversations and nextlevel industry innovation. The goal is to turn the home-buying and home-selling process on its head, leaving behind the traditional client-broker and brokeragebroker relationships, and instead work in partnership, listening and learning from one another to live inspired lives.

For more on LUX. Front Range visit luxfrontrange.com.

Submit Your News: At Home welcomes your news and press releases on hirings, career advancements/accomplishments, community involvement, events, expert advice and other topics related to the local real estate and home community. E-mail to: gstone@prairiemountainmedia. com or visit: athomecolorado.com/ submit-your-news.

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July 30-31, 2021

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REAL ESTATE

How trees add value to your home

Mature trees adds to a home’s curb appeal that attracts buyers and helps encourage a higher price. (Photo: Pexels).

Everybody loves a majestic shade tree. It invites you to stay cool and adds dimension to your landscape.

But it doesn’t stop there.

Healthy, wellBY TOM kept trees add to KALINSKI the value of your property, too.

Mature trees add that “curb appeal” factor. It’s hard to quantify this value, but trees unmistakably attract buyers and help encourage a higher price.

Research shows that large trees can increase property values from 3% to 15%, according to the Arbor Day Foundation.

Mature trees also help with home cooling and heating costs – shading your home from the hot summer sun and protecting your home from heat-robbing wind in the winter.

Trees have “hedonic” value – a willing-to-pay analysis that “attempts to capture the proportion of property prices that are derived from the nonuse value of trees and other natural elements,” University of Washington research social scientist Kathleen Wolf writes in Arborist News.

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The same valuation holds true for property near urban open space, with increases ranging from 20% for an inner-city home located within a quarter mile of a park to 32% for residential development adjacent to greenbelts, reports Wolf.

The key to ensuring trees increase your property value is ensuring they are healthy, welltrimmed, not blocking view windows or planted too close to the house. If a tree violates any of these factors, you may consider removing it to increase your home’s value.

Experts say the best trees to plant are native species that are low maintenance and don’t get too tall. To choose the right tree for your Boulder County home, consider the climate, size of your area and the distance the tree will be from your home.

Trees are long-term investments, so it’s especially important to choose one that will thrive in the extreme, unpredictable weather along Colorado’s Front Range.

Choosing a tree recommended for this area is critical, such as the following varieties from local horticulturists, Colorado State University and the US Forest Service.

Large shade trees grow to be more than 50 feet tall. Some

species are drought tolerant and will do well in high windy locations without irrigation, including American linden, honey locust, northern catalpa, Norway and sugar maples, and burr and chinkapin oaks.

Medium shade trees grow to 30 to 45 feet tall, work well in urban landscapes and offer species that flower in the spring, such as the thinleaf alder — a Colorado native species. Other popular medium shade trees include Amur corktree, Japanese pagoda tree, Littleaf linden, Ohio buckeye and Turkish filbert.

Small ornamental trees flower or add bright color during the fall, adding zest to your landscape.

These popular trees are under 25 feet tall at maturity. Canyon maple and scrub oak are native to Colorado. Fruit trees are in this group including callery pear, Canada red cherry, Ussurian pear, crabapple, hawthorn, Japanese lilac tree lilac, or redbud.

It wouldn’t be Colorado if we didn’t include large evergreen trees. These trees look great year-round, but they can easily overwhelm even a medium sized yard, so make this decision judiciously. If you have the room, the state tree is the Colorado blue spruce. Other choices are Ponderosa pine or Southwestern

white pine.

Small evergreens grow to be 15 to 25 feet tall and work well in spaces where you want year-round foliage. These trees include several native species: Piñon pine, Rocky Mountain bristlecone pine, and Rocky Mountain juniper.

The best time of year to plant a tree is early fall. With September a little more than a month away, now is the time to decide which tree will add value to your home so you are ready to get your new tree started.

Read the full article by Kathleen Wolf atnaturewithin.info/Policy/ Hedonics.pdf.

For more information, visit realtor.com/advice/homeimprovement/how-trees-canaffect-the-value-of-your-home/ and creeksideboulder.com/coloradotrees.

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 residential and commercial real estate.

For questions, e-mail tomkalinski33@gmail.com, call 303.441.5620 or visit boulderco.com.

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REAL ESTATE

Award-winning outdoor space inspiration

By Family Features Renovating your home’s outdoor spaces not only enhances the aesthetic but can also provide a host of recreational benefits.

Taking a look at awardwinning projects can help many homeowners draw inspiration while also identifying capable, reputable contractors to take on the project.

For example, selected by a panel of industry experts based on functionality, aesthetics, craftsmanship, innovation and degree of difficulty, these 2021 National Association of the Remodeling Industry National Contractor of the Year (CotY) Award Winners showcase a variety of ideas for upgrading your outdoor spaces. Find the complete list at nari.org/cotywinners.

Residential landscape design/ outdoor living under $100,000 The clients wanted to upgrade a poorly draining, impractical backyard into an attractive, functional outdoor entertainment space that flowed from the renovated basement. The project included an outdoor area for entertaining, outdoor kitchen, spacious patio with a custom concrete fire pit, oversized ceiling fans, ample storage and landscaping complete with native plants around the perimeter.

“By working on this project, we learned how important it is to take a holistic look at what clients are trying to accomplish with their renovations,” said Thomas Boyce, president of Boyce Design & Contracting. “Often with outdoor living projects, designers and contractors look at the exterior of the home in isolation. We learned to look at how the interior and exterior of the home connect to each other to make sure the features and floor plan flow and work well together. By taking this approach, we were able to achieve a better finished product that is more functional and attractive for our clients.”

Residential landscape design/ outdoor living $100,000$250,000 A young, active family was looking to create a distinct outdoor living space with multiple entertainment spaces that tied in 8

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with the existing aesthetic and elevated the home amongst its neighbors. The low-maintenance backyard now features an outdoor dining area, sunken living room, entertainment area and additional storage space built with the home’s current architectural features while also maintaining a large enough yard for the kids and their friends to play.

“The aesthetic of the outdoor areas was designed not only for function but also to reflect the interiors and keep the insideoutside living feeling continuous,” said Tim Johnson, owner and founder of Livit Site + Structure.

“For example, the shiplap used

on the fire table is the same shiplap featured inside the home.

Likewise, the Douglas fir timbers used on the pergola are the same as the interior ceiling beams.”

Residential landscape design/ outdoor living over $250,000 A 4,000-square-foot project built at four different elevations, this client wanted to include a safe way to move from the upper level to the backyard without coming through the house, a structure for shade and protection from mosquitoes and a pool with features that reflected the home.

Adding a covered screen room

with individually controlled wall panels, see-through fireplace, fountain, pool with sheer descent waterfalls, recycled rock walls and staircase from the upper elevation while enclosing it all within a stone wall met those expectations.

“A sound piece of advice for anyone building anything in the backyard: get a plan,” said Ken DePratt, owner of KD Poolscapes, Ltd. “Have it match your expectations list. Then, and only then, will you know if it matches your budget. We would recommend doing your research when taking on a pool project of any size. It’s hard to push that hole around once it’s dug.”

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REAL ESTATE

New home construction purchases Owning a home is still a key facet of the American Dream. Owning a home, built specifically for you, with the opportunity to choose colors,

BY DUANE floorplan, DUGGAN appliances, and every detail, is quite special!

Real estate markets go through cycles – they always have, always will. Since I started selling real estate in 1978, I have seen a number of market cycles in Boulder Valley. All real estate is market driven: when markets are slow, most home builders actively recruit the assistance of Realtors® to help sell their homes, but when a market heats up, some builders actively try to eliminate the Realtor® from the transaction. The real estate market is extremely hot right now! When this happens, many homebuyers end up entering a complicated transaction, often the biggest financial transaction of their lives, completely unrepresented. In this hot market, being represented by someone who cares about your best interests is even more important than ever.

Contracts used for new home subdivisions or by custom home builders for the construction of a new home, are not the standard Colorado Real Estate Commission approved form. Since these contracts are usually written by the homebuilder’s attorney, in the builder’s favor, the homebuyer is well advised to have their attorney review any contract for the purchase of new construction. If a property is substantially complete, a custom builder will sometimes allow the Realtor to prepare the contract on the Colorado Real Estate Commission approved form. Oftentimes, even if a home is 100% complete, most new home subdivisions will not accept contracts other than the one that has been prepared specifically for that subdivision.

If market conditions permit, the potential homebuyer can usually obtain a copy of the contract the homebuilder is using for their attorney or themselves to view at their convenience, prior to signing the contract. If the market is so hot that there is no time to get the contract prior to signing it, most July 30-31, 2021

resell the property for more than the current contract price.

13. Provisions for “Acts of God”? Who provides homebuilder’s risk insurance if something happens to the home during construction such as wind or fire damage?

homebuilders will allow a clause that gives the homebuyer a certain number of days to have their attorney review the contract. If a builder won’t allow such a clause, it should automatically make you question why.

When writing a contract with a custom homebuilder, the builder may or may not be receptive to any changes a homebuyer’s attorney suggests. Most large, new home companies won’t allow any changes to their contract and will adopt a “take it or leave it” attitude. In the case a buyer really wants the property, and the homebuilder refuses to make any of the changes at the buyer’s attorney’s suggestion, the attorney needs to make the buyer aware of any risks that they may be accepting.

Some questions you should keep in mind as you and/or your attorney review the contract for new construction are as follows: 1.

2.

3.

Is there a deadline for completion at all? If there is a deadline for completion, is there any penalty to the homebuilder if the home isn’t ready to move in by the deadline?

What signifies completion?

A Certificate of Occupancy?

Can the builder close on a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy?

How is an uncompleted item punch list made?

When is the punch list considered too long so that the closing is delayed? Will the homebuilder escrow for uncompleted items?

How much is the deposit? Is it non-refundable? Are there any conditions for which it is refundable? Is there a specific performance or liquidated damages clause in the contract?

4.

Is the buyer allowed access to the property during construction?

5.

Are change orders allowed?

What is the process for change orders? Is there a charge for change orders?

6.

Are all promises made by the on-site salesperson done in writing?

7.

Are the plans and specifications detailed enough so that you know exactly what you are getting?

8.

What are “standard” items in the home? What are options?

9.

Does the builder provide title insurance? Will there be owners extended coverage?

10. Does the builder pay any other closing costs?

11. Does the builder or the buyer obtain the construction loan?

12. What remedy does the buyer have if the seller/ builder refuses to close?

This may seem odd, but in an appreciating market, it could happen that the homebuilder might actually

Builder incentives Builders will often offer incentives if the homebuyer is willing to use the builder’s own mortgage lender for the buyer’s mortgage. The homebuyer seldom understands how to determine if the incentive offered for using the in-house lender is worthwhile or not.

Sometimes the home buyer pays a higher interest rate for the life of the loan in order to get that incentive. A homebuyer’s licensed lending professional can help the homebuyer determine if the builder’s incentive offer is really in the homebuyer’s best interest.

Builder warranties on new homes Builders offer a variety of warranties. When purchasing a new home, the individual builder should provide a copy of their warranty. If a builder’s warranty is not backed by a separate insurance company, the warranty is only as strong as the builder is. Even if a warranty is backed by another insurance company, it is still not a 100% guarantee that there will be backing in the event of a construction problem.

Be sure to consult with your Realtor, attorney, and mortgage lending professional to be sure you have a full understanding of the builder contract and the entire transaction.

Duane Duggan has been a Realtor for RE/MAX of Boulder in Colorado since 1982 and has facilitated over 2,500 transactions over his career, the vast majority from repeat and referred clients.

He has been awarded two of the highest honors bestowed by 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.

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Pilkington said, “as it now has all the modern comforts.”

The initial step in the restoration was conceptualizing plans to present to the City of Boulder’s Landmarks Board. Lewis helped the Dawsons gain approval for a four-car garage fashioned in the Queen Anne style of the home, and the new front porch was inspired by a fuzzy photograph of the original. Two patios flank Temple-Bowron, and the third floor, directly served by a private elevator, was conceived as an apartment for grandparents or grown children. A period-style fence was approved, and the Dawsons updated the landscaping and irrigation system.

Inside, Dawson aimed “to restore everything we could keep,” she said. The entryway’s wall-towall carpet was pulled up to reveal a gorgeous zebra floor of cherry

COVERPROFILE

Dining Room. (Photo: Nancy Blanchard / Colorado Landmark Realtors).

HISTORY COMES HOME

in an Impeccable Restoration

One of Boulder’s most beautiful historic homes now available

By Sarah Huber At Home Colorado

T

he Temple-Bowron House, an exquisitely restored historic home on a large lot two blocks from Pearl Street in Boulder, presents an unrivaled opportunity to those who not only appreciate history but seek to abide in it.

Constructed for Edwin J. Temple, one of the first regents of the University of Colorado Boulder, the Temple-Bowron House was completed in 1882, much of it crafted by local artisans. A striking view of CU’s principal 12

AT HOME COLORADO

building, Old Main, is framed by the primary bedroom’s expansive windows, and from TempleBowron’s restored front porch to the original fireplaces, brass finishes and crystal fixtures, the home beautifully reflects a distinctive era in Colorado history. Located in the Whittier neighborhood, the Temple-Bowron House has been named a historic landmark as a single-family home by the City of Boulder’s Landmarks Board.

Kristin Lewis, founder of Kristin Lewis Architects and the architect who led the process to receive approval from the Landmarks Board, said, “As with many historic buildings in this timeframe, the house is unique. You can see the history in the building itself.”

The five-bedroom, five-bath restoration, wrapped up by 2020 when the current owner, Susan

Constructed for Edwin J. Temple, one of the first regents of the University of Colorado Boulder, the Temple-Bowron House was completed in 1882.

(Photo: Nancy Blanchard / Colorado Landmark Realtors).

Dawson, and her family moved to Boulder ten years after her son’s graduation from CU Boulder, is evident from the first glimpse of the property. Following years of disrepair, in which the home was chopped into office and apartment spaces (with walls tacked up throughout the interior and heating ducts rammed through joists), the Dawsons made TempleBowron their “labor of love,” Dawson said. Pouring significantly more than their purchase price of the home into the restoration, Dawson enlisted general contractor Louis Pilkington, president of D. L. Pilkington Construction, to return Temple-Bowron to its former glory – “and maybe go beyond it,”

and maple, and the two original fireplaces were refurbished with gas inserts while preserving the mantles’ intricate hand painting.

Plaster rosettes adorning the main floor’s 11-foot ceilings were repaired in detail, and moldings and wood finishes perfectly mirror the home’s 1882 features.

Dawson was committed to a historically honest restoration.

When exposing an original brick wall in the family room, she asked the mason to make it look “clean and tidy but not new,” explaining, “Don’t erase evidence of the home’s history.” She had more than a dozen of the home’s light fixtures rewired and refurbished – after a lengthy quest for hundreds of

BOULDER DAILY CAMERA / LONGMONT TIMES CALL

replacement crystals.”

“The challenges and fun were in finding balance between replacing or modernizing systems and structure and keeping the historic character, between restoring original features and making it comfortable for a contemporary lifestyle,” she added.

Pilkington began construction by opening the walls. “We found the floor structure had been undermined by the furnace ducts put in when the home was being used as an office building, and the roof was not adequately supported,” Dawson said. “We found horsehair and borax insulation. And we found doorframes signed by Edwin Temple himself.”

Comprehensive foundation stabilization was followed by an overhaul of the wooden structures and flooring throughout the home (including a two-inch sag in the kitchen). “The floor joists were reinforced or replaced, as they had been cut through to accommodate plumbing and heating,” Pilkington said, “and we had to configure the structure for the roof load to transfer to the foundation.”

Pilkington and his team removed the home’s failing internal gutters and rebuilt the perimeter of the roof, including its corbels, or decorative brackets.

Pilkington was similarly engaged with the indoor restoration. The grand entryway staircase “had to be torn down to the root framing,” he said. Treads were replaced, scrolled woodwork was harmonized and a curved section of the banister on the secondfloor landing was meticulously reproduced. The entryway leads to the dining room, the centerpiece of which is one of the restored fireplaces, and towering ornate panel doors open to the adjacent kitchen.

Often for safety reasons, the project ballooned beyond the Dawsons’ preliminary projections.

The home was fully rewired, the

Kitchen. (Photo: Nancy Blanchard / Colorado Landmark Realtors).

main floor’s seven-foot windows were restored and the secondfloor ceilings in the hallways were slightly lowered to install a duct system. “We matched all of the casings and base and plinth blocks,” Pilkington said. “The carpentry crew did an amazing job.” Pilkington himself came to know the home well: “When it snowed, we’d run up to the third floor to look at the Flat Irons and take a few pictures.”

Dawson worked with Kathi Mann, an interior designer from Silicon Valley, to weave the modern finishes and appliances of the kitchen into the historic space.

Dawson said, “We worked hard to honor the style and to make it live easily. The off-white walls and near-black trim gave us a plain yet dramatic backdrop for art, and in the kitchen, gray cabinetry with brass hardware plays off that.”

Van Gough quartzite tops the generous island, and two sinks, two dishwashers and separate refrigerator and freezer towers create a dream space for the home chef.

While the Temple-Bowron House remains beloved by Dawson, her family is spending more time away from Boulder.

“It was a hard decision,” she said.

After all, Dawson fell for the house because, she said, “it had character – which is vague, but you know it when you feel it,” and if anything, the Temple-Bowron House has grown in character through a remarkable work of restoration.

The Temple-Bowron House is listed for $6 million by Joel Ripmaster, founder/president and Realtor® Emeritus of Colorado Landmark, Realtors.

“My firm has focused on finding the most landmark homes and

the best buyers for them, for over 40 years. Rarely do you come across a property that is so special.

The house has been incredibly modernized while remaining true to the original and historical feel and it represents a rarity in this real estate market. Boulder is such a unique and specialized market compared to the rest of the country and Pine Street is the crown jewel amongst them. The future home owner will be someone who recognizes the timelessness, the rarity and the value of such a landmark home.”

For more information, contact Joel Ripmaster at 303.641.3377 or joelripmaster@ coloradolandmark.com or visit the broker open house from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on July 30.

LEFT: Master Bedroom. MIDDLE: Foyer and Staircase. RIGHT: Living Room. (Photo: Nancy Blanchard / Colorado Landmark Realtors).

July 30-31, 2021

ATHOMECOLORADO.COM

13

Home, Sweet Home.

atHome

REAL ESTATE

and More!

Real Estate News, Open Home Listings, Homes for Sale, Rentals

Colorado Home & Real Estate | AtHomeColorado.com

At Home Colorado presents engaging content about homes, from buying and selling to improvement, landscaping and design. It also features homes for sale, open house listings and local real estate news.

There’s No Place Like This Home Anthem’s newest neighborhood showcases the very best of Colorado.

Quick Guide and Featured Open Homes

Looking for a home? View comprehensive listings of local open houses taking place this weekend from all across the area.

Photography Matters: List Your Home With a Pro

Making the investment in professional photography is a far wiser choice than throwing it together yourself. Photographer Tim Seibert of Flatirons Pro Media explains why.

Aug. 9-10, 2019

Look for it Fridays in the Boulder Daily Camera and Saturdays in the Greeley Tribune, Longmont Times-Call and Loveland Reporter-Herald or visit AtHomeColorado.com.

Top Hiking Trails in Boulder County

No matter if you’re hiking, biking, trail running or you prefer a certain level of difficulty, there is a trail for every preference.

ATHOMECOLORADO.COM

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For advertising information call Thais Hafer 303.473.1456, Toni McNeill 303.684.5929 or Mary Romano 303.473.1450.

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AT HOME COLORADO

BOULDER DAILY CAMERA / LONGMONT TIMES CALL

M WT ANT MORE INFORMATION? Check out these great homes and many more at: Check out these homes and many more at:

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tinyurl.com/BoCoFeatured

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FABULOUS HORSE PROPERTY W/ VIEWS 11078 N 66th St LONGMONT $1,480,000, 4 Beds, 4 Baths, 3450 SqFt

30 ACRES W/ HOME 2463 Steamboat Valley Rd LYONS $1,250,000, 30.67 Acres

YOU'RE SURE TO SAY WOW 9443 Torrey Wy ARVADA $1,150,000, 4 Beds, 4 Baths, 5609 SqFt Sheri Brown 720-217-2188

SPACIOUS MOUNTAIN HOME 8768 Fourmile Canyon Dr BOULDER $975,000, 4 Beda, 3 Baths, 3630 SqFt

ULTIMATE INDOOR/OUTDOOR LIVING 2965 Tierra Ridge Ct SUPERIOR $940,000, 3 Beds, 3 Baths, 3922 SqFt

PREPARE TO BE IMPRESSED 2000 Emerald Dr LONGMONT $850,000, 4 Beds, 3 Baths, 4582 SqFt

2-STORIES BACKING OPEN SPACE 10180 Alexa Ln HIGHLANDS RANCH $775,000, 5 Beds, 4 Baths, 4132 SqFt

A TRUE GILPIN GEM 211 Chalet Dr BLACK HAWK $699,000, 3 Beds, 3 Baths, 2716 SqFt -2 11 at S en Op

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CUSTOM BUILT MOUNTAIN HOME 82 Severance Lodge Rd BLACK HAWK $679,000, 4 Beds, 3 Baths, 3176 SqFt Jackie Jones 303-250-7353

YOU'LL LOVE IT 2401 E 145th Ave THORNTON $659,000, 5 Beds, 4 Baths, 4016 SqFt

MOVE IN READY 11124 Pitkin Ct COMMERCE CITY $630,000, 5 Beds, 3 Baths, 4655 SqFt

MOVE IN READY MOUNTAIN HOME 97 Moose Rd LYONS $595,000, 3 Beds, 1 Bath, 2333 SqFt Susan Martin 720-470-7939

GORGEOUS BUNGALOW 1548 Bowen St LONGMONT $585,000, 3 Beds, 2 Baths, 1806 SqFt Manish "Bobby" Gaur 720-713-9183

QUIET CUL DE SAC LIVING 1619 Jamison Pl LONGMONT $549,000, 4 Beds, 3 Baths, 2265 SqFt

FIXER UPPER 345 Jade St BROOMFIELD $489,000, 4 Beds, 3 Baths, 2498 SqFt

CUTE RANCH ON LARGE LOT 308 E Stuart St FORT COLLINS $450,000, 2 Beds, 1 Bath, 1600 SqFt

YOUR SEARCH HAS ENDED 2213 Tulip St LONGMONT $435,000, 4 Beds, 2 Baths, 1648 SqFt

RUSTIC LOG CABIN 3106 County Road 96J WARD $100,000, 1 Bed, 357 SqFt

FLATIRON VIEWS 665 Manhattan Dr 108 BOULDER $380,000, 2 Beds, 2 Baths, 888 SqFt

FOR THE OUTDOOR EXPLORER 0 Gamble Gulch Rd BLACK HAWK $25,000, 4.66 Acres

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Boulder 303.499.9880

Downtown Longmont 303.651.3939

On Walnut 303.442.3180

Nederland 303.258.7070

4770 Baseline Rd #220 Boulder, CO 80303

1911 11th St #200 Boulder, CO 80302 July 30-31, 2021

512 4th Ave #101 Longmont, CO 80501

286 N Bridge St Nederland, CO 80466

Lafayette 303.497.0588

109 N Public Rd View these homes online!

Lafayette, CO 80026

rem.ax/bocohomes

Louisville 303.666.6500

225 W South Boulder Rd Louisville, CO 80027

Each office independently owned and operated.

ATHOMECOLORADO.COM

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THE LIGHTER SIDE

Post quarantining: Are you suffering from socialization reentry stress?

We were all in our homes for a long time during COVID quarantining.

We thought that when the floodgates opened again, we would all

BY MARY just zip back LYNN BRUNY into our old socializing lifestyles. But like everything else that has gone on in the past many months, we are experiencing some unexpected surprises. Have you felt a wee bit of socialization reentry stress? Answer these questions to assess your status: Do you find that you feel naked without your mask on when in crowds of people? Do you define crowds of people as more than two?

Have you discovered you completely forget how to make small talk? Does it feel like your brain and your mouth are no longer connected when you are

face to face with a human with whom you do not live? Is your brain flipping through subjects like the weather, the price of gas or the shortage of rental cars, but is confused as to how to progress and make actual conversation?

Do you find that having more than one social event a week with many people is just way too overwhelming? After these social events, do you need days to recover in semi-darkened rooms with Peruvian flute music softly playing and calming lavender candles?

Do you find that the one person you used to have a hard time tolerating before quarantining you absolutely can’t stand being around now? Do you wonder how you could have listened to them before without jamming a corkscrew into your brain? When you see them now – even for a minute – do you find you just keep thinking about different types of corkscrews?

Have you considered renting an Airbnb in another city just so

Steve Altermatt DE

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2445 Dartmouth Avenue

2,408 sf, 5 beds, 3 bath, Upper Highland Park ranch with full, walkout lower level & ADU potential! Beautiful lot with fenced yard, water feature & outdoor living areas. Awesome location backing to a trail head right out your backyard gate.

$1,097,500

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$1,050,000

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785 38th Street

$625,000

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5388 Cypress Drive

1565 Judson Drive

This 1,800 sf, 4BD, 2.5BA, bi-level home is located on a quiet street in coveted Table Mesa. Well maintained and ready for updating! Great opportunity for someone wanting to build equity. Lovely primary suite with attached 3/4 bath.

$1,050,000

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265 28th Street

Adorable, well maintained 792 sqft two bedroom, one bath cottage on a quiet street in the coveted Highland Park section of the Martin Acres neighborhood!

Located on a 5,704 sqft lot with mature trees and room to expand.

$618,000

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Great investment opportunity or starter home in Aurora 7 neighborhood. One level living with 1,053 sf, 3 BD, 1 BA and 1-car garage. Big backyard with storage sheds and plenty of room for a dream garden, or patio area with firepit.

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Wonderful 2,700 sf sprawling ranch home in the Country Club Park neighborhood with 3 beds, 2.5 Bath, huge family room addition, and primary bed suite with 5-piece bath. Updated kitchen & baths! Mature trees and 100’s of perennials.

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STEVE ALTERMATT, Boulder’s #1Realtor

Steve sells more homes in Boulder than any other Realtor or real estate team!

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– it’s simply too many willies?

Have you thought that perhaps you really are more suited to hang out with your pet than with most of humanity? At least with Snookums you don’t have to try to make small talk about the shortage of rental cars.

If you are experiencing any reentry stress, go easy on yourself.

I would advise medicating with bubble baths and season three of “Virgin River” (or whatever mind-numbing series with which you like to veg out). Jumping into socializing can feel rather intense right now. But know you are not alone. All of us are equally wideeyed and hoping that someday our fight or flight responses will just chill the heck out.

Mary Lynn Bruny writes about local real estate and home-related topics. Contact her by e-mail at ml.bruny@comcast.net. To read previous The Lighter Side articles, go to athomecolorado.com/ the-lighter-side.

you could get away and hole up by yourself with masses of Trader Joe’s frozen foods and not be bothered by anyone in your town?

Do you find yourself not just backing away but practically running away from “close talkers,” “spitty talkers” and “inappropriate huggers”?

Did you invite a few people over for a dinner party and forgot how to do it? Were you unable to remember how to chat while simultaneously cooking various courses and refreshing drinks? Did it all seem amazingly overwhelming to the point where you can’t believe you could ever do this before? Does competing in a triathlon seem easier?

Instead of FOMO (fear of missing out), do you experience FOMI (fear of missing in) – as in the inside of your home?

Does the idea of going to a live concert with people behind you breathing down your neck give you the willies? And do these willies make you not want to listen to Willie Nelson for a while

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620 Pearl Street #A

Enjoy a truly walkable downtown lifestyle from this updated 750 sqft, 1 BD, 1 BA, West End location! Big south-facing patio with views of Bear Peak. Remodeled kitchen and bath. Close proximity to amazing trails, food, shops, and parks!

$497,500

Steve Altermatt, CRS 303-441-5669

www.SteveAltermatt.com • steve@stevealtermatt.com 16

AT HOME COLORADO

BOULDER DAILY CAMERA / LONGMONT TIMES CALL

3508 Boxelder Drive Longmont 1326 N Cedar Brook Road Boulder 1495 Patton Drive Boulder Open Sun 12-3pm $599,500 Open Sat 11am-1pm $1,350,000 Open Sat 11am-1pm $1,350,000 3bed, 3bath brick patio home in SW Longmont. Views! Must See! Pine Brook Hills Home!

Unique design with abundance of character! www.3508.wkre.com www.1326.wkre.com www.1495.wkre.com Andria Allen: 303-810-8375 Dana Runge: 303-817-8686 Mike Harris: 303-501-3621

1632 Deerwood Drive Longmont 8657 16th Street Road Greeley 4734 Essex Court Boulder New Listing! $489,900 New Listing! $468,500 New Listing! $680,000 Brick Patio Home Longmont 3Bed/3bath/study. Highly desirable ranch in excellent location!

Fantastic Heatherwood Neighborhood! www.1632.wkre.com www.8657.wkre.com www.4734.wkre.com Craig Cowley: 303-589-4009 Janet Borchert: 720-564-6034 Lisa Rice: 503-336-0778

4855 Tanglewood Court Boulder 3390 4th Street Boulder 902 White Hawk Ranch Drive Boulder New Listing! $875,000 New Listing! $1,250,000 New Listing! $5,900,000 Charming Gunbarrel Home Near Open Space. Rare opportunity steps to open space!

Unobstructed views, privacy and more! www.4855.wkre.com www.3390.wkre.com www.902.wkre.com Matt Jensen: 303-819-6494 Lynne McDougal: 303-947-1557 Barry Remington: 720-373-9297

BOULDER OFFICE: 303.443.2240 LONGMONT OFFICE: 303.776.3344 wkre.com July 30-31, 2021

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ASK ANGI

Are solar panels a good idea for my home?

By Paul F. P. Pogue Ask Angi (TNS) During a summer of heat domes and high temperatures, it’s easy to let the sun just get on your nerves.

But year-round, the sun can benefit you by pumping energy into your house courtesy of solar panels.

A solar energy array will be one of the costliest projects you can add to your home. However, it has gotten less expensive in recent years, thanks to systems getting more efficient and effective.

On average, a new solar system costs about $25,000, with most falling between $17,000 and $32,000. But it also adds value to your home, makes you more energy-independent and lowers the need for fossil fuels.

However, solar power isn’t just a good idea for the environment — it’s also good news for your utility bills. Experts estimate that you can expect to save about $20,000 over the lifetime of the average solar system, and it could be much higher. The exact amount you save depends on your region, how much sun you get, and the

factors, including your home’s energy needs, the placement of the panels, how much sunlight hits your region and your local grid.

Solar panels are extremely durable. In most cases, they carry a 25-year warranty. Various types of panels have their own benefits and drawbacks. Your solar pro will be able to explain the different options available to you.

South-facing rooftops are ideal places for residential solar panels.

(Photo: Dreamstime/TNS).

cost of energy where you live.

In many cases, your energy system can be tied into the local grid. “Net metering” means that any energy you generate beyond what you need for your home is delivered into the system, and you receive an energy credit on your bill. During these periods, your power meter might literally run

backwards. This is particularly helpful to very hot and sunny areas. When heat is way up and air conditioners are running high, it eases the load on the grid to have some houses delivering energy back.

Take great care when hiring your solar energy contractor.

This job requires balancing many

Tax benefits In addition to lowering energy bills, solar power can make a serious dent in your taxes. The federal government offers a generous Investment Tax Credit (ITC) to homeowners who install residential solar. You can deduct 26% of the cost of a home solar system from your taxes, provided the unit was installed in 2021 or 2022. The deduction drops to 22% in 2023 and expires in 2024.

Many states, localities and even utility companies offer benefits or incentives to install solar.

Ask your solar pro what benefits are available in your area.

Visit Angi.com for more information.

OPEN HOUSES OPENHOMES.ATHOMECOLORADO.COM

OPEN SATURDAY 11AM – 1PM 1326 N. Cedar Brook Road, Boulder $1,350,000

Dana Runge WK Real Estate 303-817-8686 drunge@wkre.com

LIST YOUR OPEN HOUSE 18

AT HOME COLORADO

Mountain living at its best - just 7 minutes from Broadway! Take in breathtaking views while relaxing on your gorgeous wrap around deck with outdoor kitchen! This special home offers unobstructed panoramic views, wonderful division of space for a work / live environment, privacy, and the best of indoor / outdoor living!

Please park on the cul-de-sac and walk up driveway to the house. www.1326.wkre.com

VISIT OPENHOMES.ATHOMECOLORADO.COM OR CALL 303.473.1456, 303.684.5329 BOULDER DAILY CAMERA / LONGMONT TIMES CALL

QUICK GUIDE

OPEN HOUSES // VIRTUAL TOURS

LIST YOUR OPEN HOUSE OR VIRTUAL TOUR: VISIT OPENHOMES.ATHOMECOLORADO.COM OR CALL 303.473.1456, 303.684.5329 Boulder

20 S. Boulder Circle A2202 $299,000 https://is.gd/tmQSAo Jon Hatch RE/MAX of Boulder (303) 513-2834 4855 Tanglewood Court $875,000 Saturday 12:00 PM-2:00 PM Matthew Jensen WK Real Estate (303) 819-6494 4855 Tanglewood Court $875,000 Sunday 10:00 AM-12:00 PM Matthew Jensen WK Real Estate (303) 819-6494 4785 McKinley Drive $1100000 to $1200000 Saturday & Sunday 1:00 PM-3:00 PM Marybeth Emerson Colorado Landmark (720) 394-1997 1836 22nd Street $1,330,000 Saturday & Sunday 11:00 AM-1:00 PM Mike Malec RE/MAX of Boulder (303) 588-5716 1326 N. Cedar Brook Road $1,350,000 Saturday 11:00 AM-1:00 PM Dana Runge WK Real Estate (303) 817-8686 1495 Patton Drive $1,350,000 Saturday 11:00 AM-1:00 PM Mike Harris WK Real Estate (303) 501-3621 2116 Pearl Street B $1,850,000 Saturday 12:00 PM-4:00 PM Marybeth Emerson Colorado Landmark (720) 394-1997 July 30-31, 2021

2116 Pearl Street B $1,850,000 Sunday 1:00 PM-3:00 PM Marybeth Emerson Colorado Landmark (720) 394-1997

Lafayette 4248 N 109th $1,095,000 Sunday 1:00 PM-3:00 PM Amanda Lovato Lovato Real Estate (303) 717-6069 404 Lone Eagle Pt $1,290,000 Saturday 11:00 AM-1:00 PM Brian J MacDonald Compass - Boulder (303) 915-6126

Longmont 804 Summer Hawk Drive 3106 $337,450 Sunday 1:00 PM-3:00 PM Bill Allen RE/MAX of Boulder (303) 441-5690 663 Snowberry Street $480,000 Saturday 12:00 PM-2:00 PM Amanda Lovato Lovato Real Estate (303) 717-6069 11078 N. 66th St. $1,480,000 Sunday 11:00 AM-2:00 PM Tom Precourt RE/MAX Alliance On Walnut (303) 921-9080

Louisville 1451 Hecla Way $765,000 Sunday 1:30 PM-3:00 PM Andrew Muller RE/MAX of Boulder (303) 434-6633

597 Fairfield Lane $879,000 Sunday 1:00 PM-3:00 PM Dennis & Jann Culver WK Real Estate (303) 618-3366

Superior 515,531,533,535,539 Canary Lane Starting at $1,035,000 https://is.gd/aPbj3O Eric Stjernholm Trelora Real Estate (720) 573-1397

Ward 148 Hickok Trail $595,000 Sunday 1:30 PM-3:00 PM Andrew Muller RE/MAX of Boulder (303) 434-6633

Westminster 9140 W. 107th Place $485,000 Sunday 1:00 PM-3:00 PM Laurie Kaufman RE/MAX of Boulder (303) 579-3738 3754 W 103rd Ave $699,000 Saturday 12:00 PM-2:00 PM Janet Raymer WK Real Estate (303) 523-9859

Windsor 2151 Picture Point Dr $1,195,000 Saturday & Sunday 1:00 PM-4:00 PM Dennis Schick RE/MAX Alliance - Fort Collins (970) 567-3942 ATHOMECOLORADO.COM

19

HOME

How to bring minimalist designs into your home

By Kiersten Willis The Atlanta JournalConstitution (TNS) If the past year has taught us anything, it’s that less may be more. If you want to clear your home of clutter, a minimalist design can be the way to go.

“Minimalism for me is about keeping a space simple, uncluttered and accentuating the attractive architectural features of a space. The palette is mostly monochromatic and color is used as an accent,” Sharon Blaustein, founder and principal designer of B Interior, told Elle Decor.

Since decluttering is the way to go, Livspace says you’ll need to stick to keeping essentials on kitchen counters. Everything else should be stored in cabinets. White cabinets with a pop of color, such as a wine-red appliance, gives the illusion of more space.

For furniture, opt for statement pieces that can stand alone.

HouseBeautiful suggests a cleanlined sofa for a loft living room.

It also says to keep your layout

Minimalist designs aren’t limited to seating and organization. You’ll want to decorate your space to match. (Photo: Dreamstime/TNS).

timeless, with seating surrounding

a coffee table.

“Skip trendy pieces that you’ll easily tire of and go for classics and future-heirlooms that will stand the test of time as the challenge with minimalist room decor is how little you have to work with, making each essential piece you do bring in all the more judged,” according to DecorAid. Minimalist designs aren’t limited to seating and organization. You’ll want to decorate your space to match.

“Because a minimalist interior by definition won’t have many artworks on the walls, selecting the right ones becomes all the more important,” Artfinder said.

“In a minimalist scheme, you’ll generally want a single artwork on an otherwise bare wall to provide a focal point for the room. It could be a large canvas, but sometimes a relatively small picture in a simple black frame is just as effective.”

Visit The Atlanta JournalConstitution (Atlanta, Ga.) at ajc.com.

OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY 1PM - 3PM

FEATURED AGENT MARY ROMANO PATRICK DOLAN Blue SkyAlliance Colorado Real Estate Re/Max Coldwell Banker Residential RE/MAX of Boulder 303-441-5642 303-588-8433 patrickdolanteam@gmail.com homes@maryromano.com

4248 N 109th • LAFAYETTE

This five-bedroom, two-bath, 2480 square-foot home sits on 9.5 acres in a peaceful and serene setting in Lafayette. Recently remodeled, the home wonderfully blends an open floor plan with a traditional and cozy country vibe. Inside the kitchen you’ll find stainless steel appliances, a modern-farmhouse decor, and plenty of room to entertain. Out in the pasture you’ll find a barn with tack room, chicken coops, and storage sheds.This property is ideally located with easy access to Old Town Lafayette, Louisville, Erie, and Longmont, and it comes with 10 shares of the Cottonwood Creek.This farm is bursting with potential. https://my.matterport.com/show/?m=L3uCBLiQkJ5

$1,095,000

Amanda G. Lovato, Realtor www.lovatorealestate.com amanda@lovatorealestate.com

303-717-6069 20

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Read Mary’s AtAt Home Patrick’s Homeprofile profileat: at:

patrickdolan http://athomecolorado.com/mary-romano

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 BOULDER DAILY CAMERA / LONGMONT TIMES CALL

DESIGN RECIPES

How to pick the perfect sofa

By Cathy Hobbs Tribune News Service (TNS)

3.

Consider a sectional, especially for corner spaces.

Long or short, chaise or sectional — what are the best options when it comes to a sofa?

One general rule of thumb is to pick your larger pieces first such as your sofa before making smaller selections such as chairs and accents. A sofa is really the foundation for the room and can make or break a room when it comes to floor plan and layout.

When selecting a sofa for your space, here are some general rules of thumb.

4.

Use longer sofas along long walls to help fill a space.

5.

Look for style, feel, function and comfort.

Do’s 1. Choose your sofa once you have a chance to understand how you wish a space to function.

2.

Choose a neutral-colored sofa if you are looking for pieces that are timeless and can be used in different parts of the home and move with you from home to home.

Don’ts 1. Don’t purchase a sofa without measuring the space where the sofa will go in advance. Be sure to allocate room on either side of where the sofa will sit for circulation and flow.

2.

3.

Don’t overlook hospitalitygrade fabrics. Many designers solely choose hospitality-grade fabrics because of durability.

Don’t forget to consider using lower-profile sections of a sofa to form a single unit such as pairing two chaises, a left and a right side together.

Two chaises are placed together to form a long, low sofa. (Photo: Handout/TNS).

4.

Don’t dismiss the beauty of leather and faux leather.

Once considered outdated, these materials are still considered to be modern and on trend.

5.

Don’t purchase sofas in fabrics or colors that are considered trendy or won’t last the test of time.

RODWIN ARCHITECTURE

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.

SKYCASTLE CONSTRUCTION

Come see why we are the apartment communities that care about you!

Enjoy your new home, nestled at the foothills of the Boulder Flatirons, you can work and play near where you live.

4920 Thunderbird Cir, Boulder, CO 80303 • (303) 494-4362 • www.kimberlycourt.com July 30-31, 2021

Celebrating

20

Years of Extraordinary Homes

design [ build ]

green

303.413.8556 ATHOMECOLORADO.COM

21

LAWN AND GARDEN

Attract more birds to your backyard

By Family Features With all the constraints people lived through in 2020, many turned to their own backyards – nature, in particular – for hope, solace, wonder and even entertainment. Despite the worldwide crisis, nature’s normalcy remained intact; flowers continued to bloom, bees continued to pollinate and birds continued to fly and forage food.

Feeding birds can be enjoyable for any age group and provide stress relief for all who partake. A University of Exeter study, focused on nature’s impact on humans in suburban and urban areas, found lower levels of depression, anxiety and stress were associated with the number of birds people saw during afternoons at home.

The benefits of birdwatching come from seeing lots of birds – quantity not “quality” – the study found.

People “felt relaxed and connected to nature when they watched birds in their gardens,” researchers said. These feelings increased with the level of bird

feeding in the yard. For millions working and schooling from home, this stress reduction was an unintended bonus.

Data from 2020 shows sales of bird feed, feeders, nesting boxes and bird houses spiked as interest in backyard birds soared while people spent more time at home.

Interest in birding isn’t slowing down. If you haven’t tried attracting birds to your backyard, now is a perfect opportunity to start. The experts at Cole’s Wild Bird Products Co. offer these bird feed and feeder basics to attract more birds to your backyard.

Feeders A variety of bird feeder types placed at different heights attract more birds than one feeder featuring one seed type.

Start with two feeder types that accommodate most feed options.

Bowl feeders serve not only seeds but also dried mealworms, fruit and suet. An option like Cole’s Bountiful Bowl Feeder (coleswildbird.com/?s=bountiful +bowl+feeder) comes with an adjustable dome cover you can

OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY 12PM - 2PM

663 Snowberry Street • Longmont

This spacious 4-BR, 4-BA, 2108 square-foot townhouse is highlighted by multiple upgrades and features throughout its four levels. Upon entering the home off the front patio, you’ll find a lovely den and powder room. Up one flight of stairs is a dining room, an updated kitchen and a family room with a gas fireplace and deck.The top floor boasts a primary bedroom, complete with a five piece ensuite bathroom; two secondary bedrooms; a full bathroom; and a laundry.

Downstairs is a private and separate fourth bedroom and bathroom.There is

raise or lower to prevent larger birds and squirrels from getting to food and protect it from rain.

Traditional tube feeders are allpurpose options for bird feeding, especially for small birds that cling. For example, the Terrific Tube Feeder (coleswildbird.com/ ?s=terrific+tube+feeder) is made with state-of-the-art materials to prevent warping and discoloration and includes a quick-clean, removable base to make cleaning fast and easy. Just push a button and the bottom of the feeder pops off for easy access to the inside. Rinse the feeder with soapy water, dunk it into a water-bleach solution at a concentration of 9-to-1, rinse, dry and reattach the bottom. Regular cleaning of feeders is essential for preventing mold, germs and disease.

Popular foods Birdseed: Not all birdseed is created equal. Look for quality

blends without cheap filler like red millet and oats. All-natural seed containing no chemicals or mineral oil is safe and more appealing to birds. Top seed picks include all-natural black oil sunflower and Cole’s “Hot Meats” (sunflower meats infused with habanero chili peppers that birds love and squirrels dislike). Or an option like Special Feeder blend, packed with favorites including black oil sunflower, sunflower meats and pecans, attracts the greatest number of wild birds.

Offering a wide variety, Cole’s feed is researched and specifically formulated to attract certain bird species, the largest number of birds and the greatest variety of birds.

Insects and Worms: A healthy, lush lawn is one of the best ways to feed birds that prefer insects and worms. You can supplement birds’ diets by serving dried mealworms in a packaged variety that’s easier to feed and less messy than live mealworms. Mealworms are packed with energy and contain essential nutrients, fat and protein.

Fresh Fruit: Apples, orange halves and bananas are favored fruits.

Suet: Perfect for insect-eating birds, suet is a high-fat food that provides abundant calories, rich nutrition and is a high-energy treat.

Using the right feeders and high-quality feed can enhance your backyard and entice more birds, bringing stress relief and enjoyment.

For more information on attracting birds to your backyard or local Cole’s WildBird retailers, visit coleswildbird.com.

Wendy Conder

Let’s discuss your real estate goals today!

also a two-car attached garage.This beautiful townhome is close to coffee, restaurants, and shopping in Southwest Longmont.

https://my.matterport.com/show/?m=Us5xEffkeS5

$480,000

Amanda G. Lovato, Realtor www.lovatorealestate.com amanda@lovatorealestate.com

303-717-6069 22

AT HOME COLORADO

An Experienced Real Estate Agent You Can Trust When it’s Time to Buy or Sell Your Home.

WENDY CONDER

303-775-0108 • wendy@wendyconder.com BOULDER DAILY CAMERA / LONGMONT TIMES CALL

Real Estate place yoUr ad:

303.466.3636 BoUlder/Broomfield/longmont or 970.635.3650 loveland or frontrangeclassifieds.com

Water Mineral

Real Estate

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

1BR Classic Victorian.

In the heart of old town Boulder.

Beautiful view of the Flatirons, through the kitchen window.

Furnished or not.

Street Parking, $2100, Available August 1st.

303-444-4901

CALL IT HOME.

South Boulder entire upper floor, 650 sqft, furnished large bedroom/ loft. Window view of Flatirons, designated parking & garage storage. Looking for someone to help a elderly female w/ dog walking. $850. Call after 3pm. 303-494-8228

303.466.3636 BOULDER/BROOMFIELD/LONGMONT 970.635.3650 LOVELAND

LOOKING FOR A JOB? We’re your #1 source in print and online for the latest jobs in the area

JOBS. WHEELS. HOMES. STUFF.

FIND IT. SELL IT. FAST. July 30-31, 2021

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23

RECENTLY LISTED HOMES UNDER CONTRACT

BOULDER | 3044 8TH STREET

BOULDER | 4147 SUGARLOAF ROAD

BOULDER | 1855 VIEW POINT ROAD

5 BR * 4 BA * 4772 TSF (946383) * $3,295,000

4 BR * 3 BA * 3368 TSF (946428) * $775,000

5 BR * 3 BA * 3924 TSF (946437) * $2,089,000

BOULDER | 566 DAKOTA BLVD.

BOULDER | 6184 RESERVE DRIVE

DENVER | 1300 N. OGDEN STREET 204

4 BR * 4 BA * 4347 TSF (946476) * $1,950,000

5 BR * 4 BA * 6624 TSF (946550) * $2,290,000

2 BR * 2 BA * 1031 TSF (946592) * $525,000

UNDER CONTRACT

UNDER CONTRACT

LAFAYETTE | 1155 ODYSSEY COURT

LONGMONT | 9151 ROGERS ROAD

BOULDER | 3640 CLOVERLEAF DRIVE

4 BR * 4 BA * 1942 TSF (946667) * $585,000

4 BR * 2 BA * 1924 TSF (946697) * $765,000

3 BR * 2 BA * 1800 TSF (946718) * $949,000 UNDER CONTRACT

THORNTON | 10211 URA LANE 3-203

BOULDER | 50 S. BOULDER CIRCLE 5016

NIWOT | 8580 SKYLAND DRIVE

1 BR * 1 BA * 744 TSF (946756) * $159,500

1 BR * 1 BA * 637 TSF (946783) * $292,500

3 BR * 3 BA * 4471 TSF (946790) * $1,300,000

OUR HOME SEARCH APP is the most accurate available.

Free download at app.boulderco.com

2425 Canyon #110 | 1320 Pearl 24

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303.449.7000 | BoulderCO.com BOULDER DAILY CAMERA / LONGMONT TIMES CALL