Relocate to Colorado: The Mountain Condo Fantasy



August 13, 2010One discussion my husband and I enjoy having is the “If we were rich where would we own a condo?”  It will be years before this is anything but a fantasy, but when the day comes, we are prepared.  If you are looking for the perfect place for your condo, I’d like to make my argument for the Colorado Rockies. A mountain condo can be used year round. On my way to spend the weekend in Copper...

3 Things Home Buyer’s should know about Open Houses



August 11, 2010Looking for a way to get in some homes and get a feel for what is on the market?   Open houses avoid the step of contacting the listing agent to schedule a showing.  The open house is an opportunity for buyer’s to have less pressure.  Or is it? 1)      Listing agents also use open houses to find buyers.  Most home viewers that go to open houses are unrepresented, meaning they are not...

Which Comes First: the Home Loan or the Home?



August 9, 2010Should a Home Buyer Seek Pre-Approval or a Home First? Starting a home search can feel a little bit like the “Chicken and the Egg” riddle.  Should a buyer become pre-qualified for a home loan first, before finding a home they would like to purchase?   Or, should a buyer start shopping for homes before knowing what type of loan they might qualify for? The Real Estate Division of the...

Denver Parade of Homes 2010: Something for Everyone



August 7, 2010The Denver Parade of Homes kicks off next week on August 14th through Labor Day.   The Parade of Homes is taking a new approach this year, with intent to offer something to dream about in every price range. 58 homes throughout 21 Front Range Cities can be viewed free of charge.  Prices range from $188,900 to over $6 million dollars. In addition to touring featured homes, the Parade of Homes...

Is a Short Sale a Good Opportunity for a Home Buyer?



August 5, 2010When you hear about real estate these days, these terms come up often: “short sale” and “foreclosure.”  For the potential home buyer, these phrases can evoke both interest and fear.  Interest because it sounds like the potential for a great deal, and fear because of the potential to end up in the same boat. But what is a short sale? Is it an opportunity for a good investment?  Is it...

Find an Agent You Trust



July 30, 2010Find an agent that you are comfortable sharing the information that will make your house-hunting more fruitful.   Also, find an agent whose experience you respect and trust.  Without trust, you will not get the most out of working with an agent. Throughout the home buying process, you will be sharing personal information.  At the bare minimum, you will need to be honest about your finances...

Understand Your Home Buying Motives to Develop the Best Search Strategy



July 28, 2010There are many different reasons to purchase a home, and the story behind your purchase defines your future home better than how many bathrooms and bedrooms you want. Each motive will require a different home search strategy. For example, a first time home owner is likely to be in a different situation than someone shopping for a ski in ski out condo in Breckenridge, each will require a different...