Was hoping for a full moon, but we just passed the Hunters Moon - Happy Halloween!When buying Halloween candy, do you buy what the kids want, or what you will eat if there are leftovers?    Do you buy hard candy, soft candy or chocolate?Something you may not know - candy corn was originally called Chicken Feed!   Maybe this is why it is the least favorite candy?   It has been reported that the White House is haunted also.   There have been several reports of appearances and eerie sounds, even in non-election years!  😜 Hope all the kids have fun tonight and are all safe!   As usual, the weather will be in the mid-40s as the kiddos are out trick or treating.    The weather today was in the mid-'60s.Have a Spooky Halloween - coming from Beautiful Denver Colorado!  10/31/2022

Creepy, crawly, just in time for Halloween, and the kids will love this!   This exhibition will be open through 10/31/22 at the Butterfly Pavillion.   You can engage with stunning, vibrant, and awe-inspiring tarantulas and walk amongst visually striking, exquisite, and free-roaming Orb Weavers spinning their intricate webs in the Spider Dome! You will be able to see more than 20 spider species on display with some South American wonders - Skeleton Tarantula, Columbian Pumpkin patch Tarantula, Gooty Sapphire Ornamental Tarantula and the Ghost Ornamental Tarantula.   The staff will invite you in and show you how to view and love them, not fear them. Public Pricing - Adult - $14.50Child (2-12) - $9.50Senior - $12.50Child under 2 - FREEThe Butterfly Pavillion is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm... 10/28/2022

A Luxury Home can be identified differently in cities across the country, but in Denver, my Luxury blog posts will report on detached single-family homes listed in the Denver metro area for over $1.3 million.  (Over the years I have used $1 million as luxury, but with our rising home values, had the need to increase this amount.)  Some have mountain and/or city views, and some properties back to a golf course, or have water views all to compliment one's lifestyle.  (however, we don't have much water)  Some are updated with products from around the world, and some have expansive square footage or acreage.     Whatever a Buyer is looking for, most likely if you have over $1.3 million, you can find it in Denver or in the surrounding suburbs.     Here is how the luxury market fared for the ... 10/26/2022

LeafDrop is a seasonal program offered by the City and County of Denver that turns leaves into compost. The final compost product is made available at a discounted price to Denver residents at the Mulch Giveaway & Compost Sale each May.  Weekday Drop Sites: Oct. 10 – Dec. 2  The following LeafDrop locations will be open on weekdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.:  Cherry Creek Transfer Station – 7301 E. Jewell Ave. (enter on E. Jewell Ave.)  Havana Nursery – 10450 Smith Rd. (enter on Smith Road)  Central Platte Campus – 1271 W. Bayaud Ave. (next to the Denver Animal Shelter) Weekend Drop Sites: Nov. 4 – Nov. 20  The following LeafDrop locations will be open on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.:   Bruce Randolph High School – E. 40th Ave. and Steele St.  Cherry Creek Transfer Station ... 10/25/2022

There are so many places and things to do in Denver for Halloween!   These are family-friendly events, and there are some pretty scary haunted houses too. Corn Maze at Chatfield Farms WHEN: Sept. 16–Oct. 29, 2022WHERE: Denver Botanic Gardens – Chatfield FarmsGet lost in Chatfield Farms' seven-acre Corn Maze, or simply watch the fun from one of two 15-foot tall illuminated bridges. Smaller visitors (age 10 and under) can explore the corn mini-maze. Prairie Harvest FestWHEN: Oct. 1, 2022WHERE: Periwinkle Park, AuroraBack for a third year, this free fan-favorite event features all things fall, including hay rides, games, a pumpkin patch, and more! Headlined by Denver's favorite band: Funkiphino!Pumpkin Festival at Chatfield FarmsWHEN: Oct. 7–9, 2022WHERE: Denver Botanic Gardens – Chatfield... 10/21/2022

 Buyers contemplating a move into the Denver metro area there are a few things buyers need to know about the Denver real estate market.   The market was a bit frenzied for a while, but with the interest rate increases, it has stabilized.  Here are some tips to make your trip easier to secure a home while you are in Denver -  1.  Be SURE to talk with a lender and have a pre-approval letter prior to your trip.   It is best to use a local lender, as they know what is required for the State of Colorado.2.  I will have an MLS drip with all active listings sent to you and have it updated within a few days of your arrival.    With the inventory increasing, you have more to look at than you did a year ago.    The day before arrival, I will have the list of homes ready to view.3.   Be sure to dr... 10/18/2022

The stats are out for the month of September, and all the numbers revolve around the increase in inventory and interest rates, along with the lack of buyers.   The inventory climbed 10% from August.  The inventory has steadily been climbing in Denver since end of March. This data is courtesy of Joan Cox - House to Home, Inc. I track data daily for the Denver metro area, and am seeing between 2,000 and 2,500 price reductions every week (to 7,800 listings) and almost 350 homes returning to market in a week's period of time.   Both of these numbers have been steadily increasing daily. See what homes are currently available - Active Homes for sale in Denver Buyers - If you have thought about buying a home this year, rates have increased, but the good news, there are fewer multiple offers on... 10/17/2022

 I will be moving to Colorado next week, and just renewed my driver's license in my home State, how long before I need to get a Colorado license and license plates? The State of Colorado states residency would include: Own or operate a business in Colorado Gainfully employed in Colorado have resided in Colorado for 90 consecutive days  As a new resident, the State of Colorado says you need to apply for a new driver's license within 30 days and 90 days to register your vehicle.  This should give you enough time to get settled before doing these tasks. * Exemption - Active U.S. military families who claim another State as home are exempt from these rules. For more information on applying for new license plates or a new driver's license - visit the State of Colorado Division of Motor Vehic... 10/06/2022

 Colorado hasn't had a taste of winter weather this year yet, but it could be anytime. Time for everyone to unhook their hoses if the temps near freezing.   Anytime we see overnight temperatures below freezing, this could damage the spigots. Here are a few items you should winterize before winter has set in --  Fertilize lawn for its last feeding Check for drafts - use a candle around doors and windows Blow out sprinklers Check fire extinguisher Check all windows for broken seals and be sure they shut & lock Give the deck one last coat of sealer Inspect your roof for shingle damage, or call a roofer Clean rain gutters and downspouts Check around the foundation for any pipes/ducts coming from the house to see if there is additional caulking needed and/or weatherstripping Replace your fur... 10/04/2022

A Luxury Home can be identified differently in cities across the country, but in Denver, my Luxury blog posts will report on detached single-family homes listed in the Denver metro area for over $1.3 million.  (Over the years I have used $1 million as luxury, but with our rising home values, had the need to increase this amount.)  Some have mountain and/or city views, and some properties back to a golf course, or have water views all to compliment one's lifestyle.  (however, we don't have much water)  Some are updated with products from around the world, and some have expansive square footage or acreage.     Whatever a Buyer is looking for, most likely if you have over $1.3 million, you can find it in Denver or in the surrounding suburbs.     Here is how the luxury market fared for the ... 09/23/2022

 Many are talking about "Fall", but Denver has not really experienced much cooler weather yet.   BUT, today we shall see temperatures in the 60's.   It will feel nice to finally have cooler temperatures.   Over the last couple of weeks, we have broken records for high temperatures, as we have set new records of days in the 90's.   We need some RAIN!    It is quite nice in the early mornings, as this morning it was 45 degrees when I got up this morning.   The mountains will be busy with leaf peepers all over.    It is fun to see all the beautiful colors, the elk, moose and whatever animal decides to make an appearance!    There has already been snowfall in the higher peaks, and skiers are watching with excitement. Bears are supposed to be starting to hibernate, but still seeing some comi... 09/22/2022

As we wave a sad goodbye to Summer, and welcome in Fall, there are lots of things you and your family can enjoy this weekend! Of course, the first thing is the Home Opener for the Denver Broncos!   We have new management, a new quarterback, and some high hopes for this coming year.   The home opener will be Monday night at Empower Field.   Denver vs Houston Sunday 2:25 pm. NORTHGLENN — The Northglenn Pirate Festival is back this Septembarrr weekend. The festival begins with Pirate Night on Friday, Sept. 16 at 6 p.m. with live music, sword fighting, dinner, and drinks. The main Pirate Festival on Saturday, Sept. 17 is for kids, families, and individuals with crafts, activities, bounce houses, pirate demonstrations, character appearances, and Carboard Boat Regatta. See the festival schedu... 09/16/2022

 Typically builders have a preferred lender, and if a Buyer uses this lender, you may have some of your closing costs paid.    The most recent contract with a builder was giving $7500 towards closing costs. Be sure to ask what their current interest rate is, and approximately what their fees will be.  Also, call another lender (maybe the REALTOR's suggestion) and get another estimate to know whether you want to go with the Builder's lender or not. I went over the LE (Loan Estimate) with my Buyers, and they sure add a bunch of what we (REALTORS) call junk fees.   Most of my lenders do not charge an origination fee or processing fees. Buying a brand new home from a Builder, you will be paying fees you normally would not pay if buying a resale home.     09/12/2022

The Labor Day Holiday is over, and typically the real estate market picks back up and home sales are strong.   Even over the holiday weekend, there were homes seeing multiple offers.     Listings have increased since earlier this year, which definitely is a good sign for Buyers.   In February & March, there were only around 2,000 listings for sale.   (A stable market would be 8,000-10,000 listings)   We are now seeing close to 8,000 listings each week.    The Holiday weekend was a bit slower, and that is normal. Even though schools are back in session, there are Buyers out and wanting to find their Dream Home.    Some homes may last longer than a weekend, but it won't be months on the market!    The current days in MLS with sold listings in the last 30 days is 21 days, and that includes... 09/10/2022

While many are enjoying a 3-day weekend, there are still some that are working.      Many are spending the day on the water at the reservoirs in Denver, as the weather should be very warm.  There is the Taste of Colorado and the Chalk Festival too.  Maybe a barbeque is on the schedule with friends and/or family.    Have fun!    09/05/2022

Our Local MLS REColorado puts out news to keep us abreast of the changing market and love to hear their take on what is happening - "Aug 16 2022 Metro Area Inventory Up 50%, Prices Stay Firm Market Trends, Market Trends & Statistics, REALTOR News, REALTORS In The News, Stats & Trends The metro area experienced a 50% increase in active listings and a 72% increase in single-family home inventory for July 2021. There was a slight decrease in the median sale price to $723,750 in July 2022 from June 2022, which was $750,000.“Before you read that last number and wonder if that means prices are decreasing, the answer is a resounding no,” according to CAR Spokesperson Matthew Leprino of Denver. He notes June historically records the highest home prices, and this July’s prices are still high.For... 08/29/2022

The original contract was for a 7-day cash closing and the Buyer had plans of allowing the tenant to stay until the end of the year, which at that time he would start working on the remodel.   At inspection there had to be 8 people in the house, and it was obvious not just one person lived there.    There was a HUGE cavern (5') where there was a break in the sewer line, so perfect time to renegotiate.    The Buyer got half of the repair off the sales price, and the Buyer asked to close once the tenants had vacated.   Their lease ended 8/15, but they needed a bit more time to move out.GOOD thing he asked for this, the Seller had three truckloads of their discarded belongings and still a couch and a mattress thrown into the alley that needs to be picked up.    Think he dodged a huge bulle... 08/25/2022

Looking at properties online, the list prices for a fixer property sure look better than the list price for a ready-to-move-in property!      FIXERORReady to Move in!   Things to think about when looking and considering a fixer - ~ Can you fix the obsolete functionality of the home?   ie. one bathroom for 3 bedrooms on the main level?   The stairs into the basement are very steep.....   ~ Can you move in and live with the issues for a while?   Contractors are booked out, and if you cannot do the repairs yourself, it could take a while to get the home "up to speed".~ How much will it take to bring the home up to your standards?   This is an important question!   And, be careful not to over improve.   Not every penny you spend on improving your home will equate to the bottom line when you... 08/12/2022

Many homeowners have been contemplating a move, then COVID interrupted those thoughts, so what about remodeling?    The kitchen could use a facelift and so could the primary bathroom! The market has been fast and furious for a couple of years, and many did not want to "play in the sandbox" and compete with so many other buyers.    With homeowners seeing a lot of equity in their home, there is still that burning desire to move. Now that the market has cooled off, and has become more stable, it could be time to make that move!    If you need to sell to complete a purchase, be prepared to price your home at fair market value.   Those days of listing high and knowing you will get that price or higher are long gone.   If you price your home too high now, you will be chasing the market down f... 08/11/2022

The Colorado Office of Radon Professionals began regulating Radon Measurement Professionals and Radon Mitigation Professionals on July 1, 2022. Consumers should hire a licensed professional in their area as part of the home inspection process, as a radon check is included in this safety inspection. This will ensure that proper measurement and/or mitigation is conducted.Real Estate Brokers should be aware that a list of licensees is available at dpo.colorado.gov. Use the "Search a License" feature to locate licensee details, including any disciplinary actions taken against a radon professional. I have used the same radon mitigation company for at least 15 years, and they are not on this list, so will need to check in with them to see if they are getting qualified.  08/03/2022