3,003 LISTINGS
fort collins • loveland • windsor wellington • timnath
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2013 63+5# 9315: .25* 8)5:+%7 & ")*+%7 4 / ( -6 3' ,7 !223$*015*0
OPEN HOUSE Friday - Monday 1-4pm
'-* !$+"0 %0.*) $+ /"(&/",#
43"/8&8#-
%,&0#,$ *#.'2 0!, ,*&0,)' &!.),& ." (1+'*0! -,&,)/.1) )5335?$ =? 3*/ *5$*/)3 $,=D?- 5? 75+-75?$6 B*/ ;@35= 4=1/) @3 75+-75?$ @,/ -/)5$?/- 3= 3@./ 5? 3*/ )A/03@0D+@, A@?=,@150 >5/() =! B51?@3* 2/)/,>=5, @?- 3*/ 2=0.% <=D?3@5?)C #D5+3 "% 4@,3!=,- 4=1/)6 8=,3*/,? :=+=,@-=&) A,/15/, A@35= *=1/ "D5+-/,6 B*/ ;@35= 4=1/) @3 75+-75?$ 0@A3D,/ @++ 3*/ !/@3D,/) 3*@3 1@./ 75+-75?$ @?- A@35= *=1/) D?5'D/9
2109 Katahdin Drive • Decorated Model • Homes from the $300s The Strater Plan is an up-to-date 2-story with 9 foot and vaulted ceilings; 4 bedrooms, 4 baths and laundry upstairs; main-floor study; 3-car garage, and a full, unfinished lower level. The big open kitchen/eating area open’s to the great room. Lots of light and volume in this welllaid-out home. Price includes hickory hardwood flooring in kitchen and nook, and complete front yard landscaping and financing incentives. Many floor plans to choose from!
35")42)&%2/ $#"!* , 12*6 0#'#(+ , 0.! -2#(4"(2()"
The Bucking Horse Community is a centrally located neighborhood within walking distance to the shops at Rigden Farms, a grocery store, churches and schools. Community amenities include small parks, a neighborhood swimming pool community clubhouse and a 6 acre city park. Community gardens, a working farm, and expansive trail system and a dog park create a wonderful neighborhood for active families.
48#'.3'!13- 032#*-6". (&#)$
!'#$$$$%&"%&"
,$8-#%
2#$-2#+; *",$5 #: 7+ 0&*"7("-#+7"5 9$7!0 *( !7$$ %(/0 *%7* '#$$ %7)0 5(, :75#+;1 8<%#: #: '%5 . $#)0 #+ 4($("7-(36
FC-0000379177
73"+3$53'2
Joey Porter 481-4814 Todd Fields 218-3535 Becky Vasos 217-9874 The Group Inc. 229-0700
FLAT FEE LISTINGS
E US M HO12 P N E 0OP T 1 SA
Sell Your Home for Less than $500! FULL SERVICE LISTINGS FOR 1%!
Don’t pay 6% to Sell Your Home! It is Your Money!
Kim Irwin
970-391-5050 Khankinsirwin@gmail.com
FC-0000381803
Best wishes for Peace and Joy this Holiday Season, and a New Year full of
Health, Happiness and Prosperity!
BUYER REBATES! 1% BACK to YOU!
6862 MEADE ST, WELLINGTON
Sage Homes popular Yellowstone ranch plan, 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with oversized 2 car garage, wood flooring, kitchen cabinet upgrade, front landscaping. $1,500 from builder approved lender. This home has been completed. Ready for Dec. closing. $204,460 MLS # 719381
We Contribute 1% of Your Purchase Price Back to You at Closing!
Michael Nicholson: Broker/Owner
970-691-8429
mnicholson@homesavingsrealty.net
Jim Hauan 481-9280 Michael Hurd 227-5932 FC-0000379316
It’s Time for Real Estate to be About the Consumer!
Home Savings Realty www.HomeSavingsRealty.net
2900 S. College Ave., Suite 1A | Fort Collins, CO 80525
970.212.9000
www.cobaltmortgage.com/fortcollins FC-0000378840
©2012CobaltMortgage,Inc.NMLS#35653.LicensedbytheColoradoDepartmentofRegulatoryAgenciesinColoradostate.
2 SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2013 REAL ESTATE WEEKLY
An advertising supplement serving Northern Colorado | www.coloradoan.com/homes
NEW HOME DEVELOPMENTS Highland Meadows Golf Course Community
1:)!.,+' #",'($9 3(./ 5(0%9" 5(--0+:42 :+ 6:+'9(%* 58
You Pick the Home... We Have the View! Eight Beautiful Models to Choose From Home Prices Starting in the low $400’s *Only 3 Lots Left in Phase 3 - Reserve Yours Today* Call for an appointment Today!
ABBCO BUILDERS
5,.. 4!" 3"+" 7,0)!,+ &",-
-*$+ 0#*$. ," )%"".( &/"!'
(970) 226-HOME (4663) www.abbcobuilders.com
…the Difference is in the Detail…
5-)1+, "4*-+$ 4)0 64%-( !(*,& 6'-2,& &%4'%-)1 -) %/, .3##&
76%+6 83,,2+( /*!5&&&50!&)
$142+ "6+6# /*!5&-'5!-/. $"6. ,062 3/42+2/42/'1! ,#/24 8 ,+2*"'24 7 -)95%%(5&--9
FC-0000378845
1-2-#6 0"$<8 ' *"% +45.!5#9 5# 3-5;25<% ,5..-9< /5$#-67( ):
3-5;25<% ,5..-9< 3<-64;<8&
1-2-#6 0"$< 3<-64;<8& < '670(C @I>0 0>I78 &5K7/ < HD. :56/I0G:I"56 /I>68>08 < @M>; (0>6"I79 67E &>08E558 +550/ /I>68>08 < #6I70"50 87/"(6 "6:MG878 E"I& 7F70C &5K7 < ,;"M"IC I5 :G/I5K"B7 +5503M>6/
<N5I/ >F70>(7 4A! /12 -I2 <L>O7/I": K5G6I>"6 F"7E/ <,;"M"IC I5 ;G"M8 5GI;G"M8"6(/ 56 J? (>0>(7/ <'>/C >::7// I5 %056I J>6(7 ?"MM>(79 *76I700> = #$H)
"!
%3732 ),9 /)!:1 4)/: $2 05+. *3=)- '29::2" &3/-$24 (;:- '$2 # ',- <86
*&00 (' ')9-3)-
===83&?&-,9)."34-$8$).
$"6. ,062 3/42+2/42/'1! ,#/24 8 ,+2*"'24 7 -)95%%(5&--9
44
www.MyDryCreekHome.com
20 Lots Remaining!
$
Use As 7,000 YouTo Choose!
Homes near Old Town from the Low $200s
>+17; A@B67/<! #22)9-3)-%5".&:8-",
e erv ! s e d to R our A w Y o or lN Cal ace F p aS
.. . . . . .. To Advertise Call . . . . ..... Mimi Toliuszis 970-224-7800
Hillary Hutcherson 970-416-3916
Use your $7,000 towards options & upgrades, buy down your interest rate, pay closing costs-you choose! Continues until December 31st. FC-0000382655
Model Open Weekdays 1-4 and Weekends 11-4
FC-0000384351
www.coloradoan.com/homes | An advertising supplement serving Northern Colorado
REAL ESTATE WEEKLY SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2013 3
Open Houses This Weekend SATURDAY 12-2
www.thegroupinc.com Harmony Office 970.229.0700
103 Poudre Bay, Windsor, Culde-sac, oversized lot, new roof and windows, sun room with hot tub, new appliances and all countertops have been refinished, full finished basement and oversized garage with heated storage.
SATURDAY 2-4
509 Broadview Dr., Severance - Beautiful 5 bedroom, three bathroom home in a quiet Severance neighborhood. Highly desirable hardwood floors, bright, clean kitchen, A/C, fully finished basement, fenced in yard, 2 car garage.
SATURDAY 1-3
1345 Settlers Dr. FTC-New Construction in Governors Ranch. Beautiful 3 bed 2 bath 3 car home has Andersen windows, granite, tile, hardwood, stainless steel, low maintenance exterior, covered patio.
SAT 10-12 & SUN 2-4
1817 Nedrah Dr, FTC-Totally custom built ranch w over 2,600 on main flr. Recent kitchen remodel makes this home very open & inviting. 3 bdrms & 3 bthrms, all of which have been remodeled w travertine granite. Huge lot & covered patio are perfect for entertaining.
$425,000
$196,900
$290,000
$515,000
Call Mitch Benner (970) 679-1597
Call Nicole Huntsman (970) 402-0221
Call Bob Roehrich (970) 978-1465
Call Katie Shea 720-231-8179 Call Cary Irvin 290-7698
MLS#724405
MLS#722157
MLS#713944
MLS#722193
Horsetooth Office 970.223.0700 Mulberry Office 970.221.0700 Centerra Office 970.613.0700 Loveland Office 970.663.0700
SAT 10:30-12:30 & SUN 11-1
2016 Huntington Cir, FTCOutstanding floor plan in one of Fort Collins finest West side neighborhoods. 4 bedrooms, 3 bath tri-level home. Tile floors, fireplace and big backyard for entertaining. Great for 1st time home buyers or investors. New roof & garage door.
SAT & SUN 12-2
3325 Firewater Ln.,Wellington-New carpet & paint in this 3 BD, 3 BA ranch w/open floor plan and wood floors in the kitchen and dining. Finished basement w/bath, family room and 2 addl. bedroom nooks (previous owners used as 5 bd. home). 1 block to new park under construction.
SATURDAY 10-2
4301 Halleck Ln, Wellington. Sage Homes popular Yellowstone 3 bed/2bath ranch plan with oversized 2 car garage, wood flooring, kitchen cabinet upgrade, front landscaping. $1,500 from builder approved lender.
SUNDAY 1-3
4332 Dixon St, Timnath. What a beautiful home tucked away on .76 acres! Incredible views of the mountains and ponds. Park-like backyard, huge deck & built-in hot tub. This open floor plan has vaulted ceilings, gorgeous fireplace & 3 bedrooms. Close to everything!
$227,900
$214,900
$204,460
$340,000
Call Jeffrey Martin 599-4436 Call Cary Irvin 290-7698
Call Tony Schnee (970) 412-0010
Call Ray Henry (970) 215-0918
Call Amber Kahler (970) 310-4170
MLS#724100
MLS# 719381
MLS#712476
C
AN
C
EL
ED
MLS#723070
SATURDAY 12-4
4616 Pompano Dr, WindsorSprawling custom built ranch with mountain views. Large deck, walkout basement, 3-car garage, elevator and smart home system. Beautifully landscaped with water feature. Finished basement with wet bar, 2bds and rec room.
SAT 1-3 & SUN 1-3
4618 Angelica Dr, Johnstown. Custom home by John Walz on the bluff with incredible views! Very open floor plan, 3 bedrooms, study, 3 baths, oversized 3 car garage, Tharp cabinets, stainless steel appliances, granite counters, & more. Home is 100% complete & ready for move in
SATURDAY 1-3
5018 Blackhawk Drive, WindsorJust completed! New ranch plan on 2.8 acres, open flr plan, slab granite, hickory flrs, den/study, master suite is separate from other bdrms, oversized 3 car garage, full unfinished bsmt, close to MCR & Centerra w/easy I-25 access!
SATURDAY 1-3
5024 Blackhawk Drive, WindsorReady in 30 days! New main floor master 2 story with dramatic high ceilings, 3 generous guest rooms up, main floor den/study and fantastic master suite plus oversized 3 car garage, all on 2 1/2 acre lot! Close to MCR & Centerra w/easy I-25 access!
SUNDAY 1-3
5337 Highcastle Court, FTCPrivately nestled at end of cul-de-sac in popular Miramont surrounded by greenbelts and panoramic mountain views! Extensively updated, owner’s suite & separate office on main, updated kitchen, walk-out lower level w/3 bdrms & wet bar.
$475,000
$729,000
$500,000
$500,000
$550,000
Call Lane Everitt 310-5312 Call John Cheever 420-5093
Call Anita E Pool (970) 412-9609
Call Kurt Faulkner (970) 690-4226
Call Kurt Faulkner (970) 690-4226
Call Kathy Albertz (970) 690-6011
MLS#707769
MLS#697132
MLS#697135
MLS#723773
C U O N N D TR ER AC T
MLS#722025
SATURDAY 12-2
6330 Falcon Ridge Ct., FTC-Easy living ranch plan with 4bd, 4ba and 3 car garage, Light and open kitchen with granite and glass porch off nook. Daylight basement with huge family room, bdrm & bath. Mature trees and inviting neighborhood are waiting for you.
DAILY 1-5
6424 Murano Drive, Windsor - Stop & visit our MODEL HOME, open daily 1-5 pm. This Castello ranch plan has 2 beds, study, 2.5 baths, 3-car garage, covered deck & patio, entry courtyard backs to golf course. Get information on our 7 High Performance Homes starting in the low $400s.
DAILY 10-6
6821 Rock River Rd,TimnathMeritage Homes is now selling homes at Timnath Ranch from 16032685 finished sq ft, 2 story and ranch plans. Homes back to open space, close to Bethke Elementary. Visit our model at 6821 Rock River Rd or call Russ Webber at 720-341-3425.
SAT & SUN 1-4
6913 Water View Ct., Timnath Fabulous new patio homes being built in Wild Wing by Hartford Homes. Beautiful new ranch & 2-story plans w/some walkout basements. Priced from $370,000-$670,000 base. Patio homes w/some incredible views overlooking Timnath Resevoir.
SUNDAY 1-3
7843 1ST St, Wellington. Ranch style home with 3 bedrms and 1 bath is perfect for a first time home buyer or a buyer looking for a low maintenance home w/o an HOA. 2 sheds in the backyard for extra storage and a drive way to park a small boat or RV. Room for a garage to be added
$560,000
$750,000
Homes from the low $300’s $370,000-$670,000 MLS#715319
MLS#000000
$150,000
Call Paul Versteeg (970) 223-7777
Call Dennis Pfeifer (970) 227-6646
Call Chris McElroy (970) 227-5102
Call Judy Bogaard 227-1000 Call Brain Bogaard 481-5376
Call Billy Miles (970) 631-4441
MLS#722253
MLS#660867
MLS#724318
4 SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2013 REAL ESTATE WEEKLY
An advertising supplement serving Northern Colorado | www.coloradoan.com/homes
Open Houses This Weekend SAT & SUN 1-4
www.thegroupinc.com
Streamside, FTC-Come find new exciting designs and floor plans. Modern style homes with a comfortable feel. Ranches & 2 stories single family homes starting in the 300”s. Open concept living & Old Town Charm! Visit the sales office at Prospect and Ellis.
SATURDAY 11-1
1205 Briarwood Road, FTC-Nice tri-level home with many upgrades, Newer cabinets, appliances, windows etc. Good sized fenced yard for pets or outdoor activities. Good access to CSU, shopping, bus route etc.
SAT 2-4 & SUN 11-2
1221 E Prospect Rd. FTC-B4, 2BD 3BA 1142 sf townhome style condo w/2 car tandem garage. 2nd floor is main living area w/maple floors, 3rd floor is 2 suites w/private baths & laundry. Front & back decks off kit & living room-1 overlooks Spring Creek. Awesome mid-town location!
From the $300’s
$230,000
$223,000
$174,750
Call Paul Schnaitter 223-7777
Call Rachel Burhans 310-7664
Call Jessi Pitmon 217-2185
Call Jeffrey Martin 599-4436
MLS#724168
MLS#722829
AN EXCLUSIVE SERVICE OF THE GROUP, INC. REAL ESTATE
Northern Colorado Real Estate Source ce MON & FRI 1-4 • SAT & SUN1-4
2105 Nancy Gray Ave., FTC-Healthy lifestyle living with expansive trail system, pool, community gardens, open space, working farm, and artisan village (all coming soon). 3 models to choose from starting in the $220’s. Visit the sales office at Timberline Road and Sandbur Drive.
$270,790
MLS#711422
Call Jason Billings 581-6444
The Real Estate Source is a magazine produced by The Group featuring homes for sale and new home neighborhoods throughout Northern Colorado. & 5!:7 (,',,, @?<#:% =#%$7#C"$:= E?B$2GD0 & 3#%$7#C"$:= $? %"C%@7#C:7% ?8 $2: /?7$ 6?GG#B% 6?G?7F=?FB FB= >?!:GFB= .:<?7$:71+:7FG=0 & ;!F#GFCG: 8?7 <#@I1"< F$ ?!:7 ),, =#%$7#C"$#?B <?#B$% $27?"42?"$ 9?7$2:7B 6?G?7F=? #B@G"=#B4 2?$:G%' 47?@:7D %$?7:%' 7:%$F"7FB$%' @?88:: %2?<%' FB= -7?"< ?88#@:%0
o Colorad n r e h t Nor Source
tate Real Es
& *B8?7EF$#!: EF7I:$ =F$F FB= @?EE"B#$D EE"B#$D #B8?7EF$#?B #B :F@2 #%%":0 & 5BG#B: !:7%#?B ?8 <"CG#@F$#?B F$ HHH0$2:47?"<#B@0@?E @?B$F#B#B4 #B4%0 G#BI% $? =:$F#G <F4:% 8?7 E?%$ G#%$#B4%0
W W W. M Y D R Y C R E E K H O M E . C O M
Homes near Old Town from the Low $200s 20 Lots Remaining!
Use your $7,000 towards options & upgrades, buy down your interest rate, pay closing costs-you choose!
Model Open Weekdays 1-4 and Weekends 11-4 2050 International Blvd., Fort Collins 80524 • (970) 388-0456
MLS#720187
& *B8?7EF$#?B #% ?74FB#A:= CD @?EE"B#$D FB= <7#@:0
7,000
$
FC-0000382649
SATURDAY 1-3
3827 Steelhead St 17A, FTC-Adorable 2BD 1BA 1,047 sf 2nd floor condo w/new carpet! 4 exterior walls for lots of natural light, corner fireplace, vaulted ceiling in living room & kitchen, kitchen island. 1 car attached garage. Balcony faces park. Great amenities!
Use asYou Choose continues until Dec. 31st
www.coloradoan.com/homes | An advertising supplement serving Northern Colorado
REAL ESTATE WEEKLY SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2013 5
10 Things That Make a Home a Good Home
By Brendon DeSimone
B
uyers spend a lot of time looking at properties online, touring homes on the Sunday open house circuit, and talking to their real estate agent. They’re laser-focused on finding the best home that meets their needs. The problem is, buyers sometimes don’t take the long view of a property. They’re only looking at a home as a potential buyer – and not as someone who, years down the road, may also have to sell the property. Given that homes are such a big investment, there should be a little inside your head, picking away at your options and decisions. As the home buying market starts to heat up again, here are ten things you should consider when choosing your next home. 1. Location, location, location Perhaps nothing is more important than the three L’s, and there’s a reason why it’s said three times.
Location is extremely important when it comes time to sell. You can have the worst house in the world with the ugliest kitchen and bath. But put it on a great block or in a good school district, and your home will be coveted. Location, location, location matters on so many different levels. At the highest level is the town where the house is located, then the school district, then the neighborhood and the block — right down to the location of the lot on the block. Keep all of this in mind when shopping. Also remember that while real estate markets rise and fall, no one can take a great location away from you. 2. The school district The school district is right up there on the list of what’s most important to many buyers. It’s not uncommon for buyers to start their search based solely on the school district they want to be in. Parents want their kids to go to the best school, which can drive up prices of homes in
those districts. Even though you might not have children, buying a home in a good school district is always smart. If the schools are desirable, homes tend to hold their value. As a homeowner, you should always be aware of how the schools are doing, not unlike being aware of your roof’s condition, the neighborhood development or city government. 3. The home’s position on the lot Where the home sits on the lot in relation to the street or the overgrown oak are key elements in picking out a home. In the case of a condo, an end unit vs. an interior unit is a key consideration. You may have chosen the most beautifully renovated home in the best school district and figure all is good. But if the main living areas are shaded by a neighbor’s extension or the master bedroom looks into the neighbors’ family room, you may have a location problem. Light or privacy may not be a hot button for you, but
chances are, they might be future home is. As a matconcerns for a future buyer. ter of fact, Zillow even has a 4. Crime Walk Score for most homes. It’s a good idea to check As people get out of their the latest crime figures for cars and slip into their Keds, a neighborhood. It can give they want a home in a walkyou a good snapshot about able neighborhood. People the number and severity of put high value on the ability crimes over a time period. So to walk to a store, school, much information is online work or public transportanowadays that when you tion. The more we move find your perfect home, a away from cars and the more quick Internet search on the we see invested in public area should provide you with transportation over the comthe much-needed informa- ing decades, the more of a tion. huge value-add walkability Most municipalities post will become. their police blotters or crime 6. The neighborhood’s statistics online these days. character Don’t freak out if you notice You may have found the more crime than what you’d absolute most perfect home, have expected. Crime, espe- on the best block, in the cially petty crime, is every- best school district and on where. If you’re new to the a great lot. But there could area, consult with your real be circumstances outside estate agent if you have con- your control that may give cerns. you pause – specifically, the 5. Walkability character of the surrounding More than ever, ‘walkabil- neighborhood. ity’ is becoming a key factor Check out the area late at in the search process. There night, early morning and in are entire websites, apps and the middle of the day. See algorithms that help people if there are any odd weathfigure out how walkable their See GOOD, page13
6 SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2013 REAL ESTATE WEEKLY
An advertising supplement serving Northern Colorado | www.coloradoan.com/homes
Mortgate Rates U.S. Fixed-rate 30 year U.S. Fixed-rate 15 year Southwest Fixed-rate 30 year Southwest Fixed-rate 15 year
Dec 6, 2013 4.46% 3.47% 4.48% 3.49%
Dec 6, 2012 3.34% 2.67% 3.34% 2.67%
Both buyers and sellers can find advantages in getting jump on spring
“ Laura Olive FOR REAL ESTATE WEEKLY
mium for the home that you would in the spring market but then you would be in a position to buy a home as a non contingent buyer earlier and also avoid paying a premium for your new home. Over the past few years there have been enormous changes in the mortgage lending guidelines, products, and rules. There are more changes coming starting in January that will make it more difficult to get certain types of loans. The sooner you are aware of those changes, the sooner you can prepare. Talk to a Realtor and get a recommendation for a local mortgage lender. Make an appointment and see which loan programs best fit your needs. How much does the program require as a down payment? Do you have the credit and income to qualify
I emphasize using a local lender that you can sit down across the desk from. The mortgage loan process is complex enough without trying to do this long distance or through the internet.
for the program? How much can you qualify for? If there are issues with credit what can you do to correct them so that you can qualify for a loan in the future? Are you better off to pay off debt or have a larger down payment to qualify for a loan? If you have a family member that is willing to assist you with a gift for a down payment, how should you document this? A good loan officer can help guide you through so that the process becomes smoother and you can avoid issues in obtaining your loan. I emphasize using a local lender that you can sit down across the desk from. The mortgage loan process is complex enough without trying to do this long distance or through the internet. Also, when you write an offer on a home you will submit a lend-
Where news stories come to life Log onto Coloradoan.com, click the video link and explore local video stories.
“
M
any people that have the goal of selling and/or buying a home in 2014 are waiting until after the holidays are over to get started. Given how busy it has been I would recommend that you start now. It has been an extraordinary year in real estate sales in Northern Colorado. There has been a lack of homes on the market, spurring bidding wars in many neighborhoods with price ranges below $400,000. This was especially true in the tradition home selling seasons of spring and summer. Get a jump on the market and start your looking and buying process before then to beat the rush. This may result in a less stressful purchase and perhaps at a lesser price than what the home may sell for in the spring. For home sellers thinking about selling in 2014 there is an advantage to getting your home on the market before spring. While you might have fewer showings, the quality of those showings is generally very good. The buyers that are out looking in the winter are generally very motivated. You might not get the pre-
er letter with your offer. If it is from a locally known, reputable lender you will have an easier time getting your offer accepted. This becomes even more important if you are competing with another offer! If you are planning to sell your home, do you have work that needs to be done to help show the home to its best advantage? Are there items that will likely show up in an inspection report that should be taken care of ahead of time? Talk to your Realtor to find out if the things you think need to be done are important, cost effective, or not. Will they impact the marketability of the home? If they are the type of things that will show up on inspection, it makes sense to get them taken care of ahead of time so you can avoid the emotional issues with having
a buyer involved and so that you do not have the pressure of getting it done within the time constraints of a contract. Also realize that the trades (plumbers, electricians, carpenters, carpet layers, tile, vinyl, etc.) are VERY busy. They may be booked out for several weeks. The sooner you identify work to be done and contract for it the better. You might find that it is impossible to get it done within the time constraints of a contract! 2013 has been a fantastic year in the Northern Colorado Real Estate market. It is one of the best markets in the nation. 2014 promises to be every bit as good if not better. To make your real estate goals come true next year, get started now! Laura Olive, CRS, ABR, CDPE, EcoBroker, CNE is a Broker Associate with RE/ MAX Alliance. Please write to: 125 S. Howes Suite 120, Fort Collins, CO 80521 or call 970-495-4755 or email: laura@lauraolive.com. For a complete archive of other articles that have appeared in this paper please go to www.LauraOlive.com.
LOG ON TODAY.
www.coloradoan.com/homes | An advertising supplement serving Northern Colorado
REAL ESTATE WEEKLY SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2013 7
NEW CONSTRUCTION STILL NOT KEEPING PACE AS INVENTORY REMAINS LOW
Local home sales slowing, challenges lie ahead
The record low inventory of homes for sale is finally putting a damper on the market. Residential home sales for November in the Fort Collins area dropped 6.4% from last year and 20% from last month. For the first two months of this last quarter of the year sales are up just 2% compared to double digit increases for the first nine months of the year. Going back a few months it seemed certain that we were going to exceed 4,000 home sales for the first time since 2005 and have a shot at the record of 4,100 in 2006 but now it is going to be tight to even get to 4,000. The average sales price took a big jump in November to $283,839 and is now up 7.2% for the year. Again, this is a result of the lack of supply pushing up prices. After eleven months the total volume of sales has exceeded $1 billion for the first time ever and we are on pace for $1.1 billion in total sales, an increase of almost 22% from last year and a 12% increase over the all time record set back in 2005. There are 1,038 active listings on the market but 339 of them are under contract leaving a net of 699 homes for sale. This is down from 803 last year and 933 in December of 2011. The supply is down almost 25% from two years ago and the demand compared to 2011 is up about 40% so we have gone from a four month supply to a two month supply, well below the six month threshold that is considered a balanced market. The average days on market certainly reflects the limited supply. The resale homes that closed in November were on the market for 47 days prior to receiving an of-
Fort Collins Area 9
Pam & Dave Pettigrew Certified Residential Specialists
fer. This compares to 65 days in 2012 and 78 days in 2011. In the northern Colorado market (Larimer & Weld counties) total sales to the end of November have surpassed the 10,000 mark and have a shot at the record 10,845 sales set in 2005. Sales is the Loveland / Berthoud area are up 19.3% and the Greeley / Windsor / Weld county are is up 19.2%, well ahead of the 13.2% in Fort Collins and north Larimer county. The average selling price in the area is up 7.1% and the total volume of $2.56 billion is 25.3% ahead of last year. Inventory remains low throughout the region with a net of 1,510 active listings. This is down from 1,711 last month and with a demand of 5,000 homes over the next six months there is about a two month supply. New home construction is increasing but has certainly not kept pace with the demand. For the year to date new home sales represent 15.2% of total home sales, well off the 25% to 30% share that is required. Over the next few months there will be more homes on the market but we expect there will also be more buyers. Also, many of the sellers are simply selling one home to purchase another and there are still investors out there who purchase homes to turn them into rentals. None of this helps the housing supply. We need to build more homes.
Fort Collins Area Home Sales 2012
Homes Avg. Price
2013
Homes Avg. Price
% Increase
Homes Price
1st Quarter
573
$251,447
742
$268,180
29.0%
6.7%
2nd Quarter
1,080
$256,539
1,195
$272,456
10.6%
6.2%
3rd Quarter
1,088
$259,755
1,228
$282,324
12.9%
8.7%
OCTOBER
279
$267,361
307
$279,900
10.0%
4.7%
NOVEMBER
267
$259,851
250
$283,839
-6.4%
9.2%
3,287
$257,770
Year to Date
Bottom line, we are in record territory for home sales and selling prices and have fully recovered from the lows set during the recession. Sales bottomed out in 2010 at 2,885 homes, down 30% from the peak and prices reached a low in 2009, down 5.5% from the high. Since then home sales have increased 40% and
3,722 $276,410
prices have increased 15% and there is every reason to expect this rate of demand for homes to continue in the foreseeable future. The challenge is going to be to find the inventory. Pam & Dave Pettigrew, Certified Residential Specialists, are available to
e? ne alll don sa os do o--d g my tto ng ettttiin Ge
answer your questions on real estate. Write to them at Prudential Rocky Mountain REALTORS, 2700 S. College, Fort Collins, 80525, call them directly at 970-282-9305, email FCRealtor@msn.com or visit their award winning web site at www.FortCollinsRelocation.com for an archive of all their columns.
Ea s S tr ee .
Cross more off the list. First you got the young couple, just back from their honeymoon, into the loft with the romantic roof-top deck. Then you reviewed your ad results with your local consultant. And even had time to fire off a few professionally designed digital brochures to prospects. All before lunch. The key to your productivity? Working smarter with helpful tools from Apartments.com.
Get more done every day with Apartments.com. Visit us online or call (888) 658-RENT. ©2012 Classified Ventures, LLC. All rights reserved.
M E D I A
G R O U P
13.2% 7.2%
10 SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2013 REAL ESTATE WEEKLY
An advertising supplement serving Northern Colorado | www.coloradoan.com/homes
%*##&, )-(&-$",
$&)'%,&( +,"!&,'#&*
!"0( #/*- '/3/-.(/ $/1& $&-&+ %%%+4/1&,20'/3/-.(/+)/1 ,&
*@(N/Z>NX (a4@(8@ 4(Va7 7TW@ TV .6. (a4@3 ZV E# !/6 'TXXZV3 J0 . "@]3_ .6: "(/73_ <VZ37@] J(XY[TN/ "(3@W@V/_ & P a(4 8(4(8@6 %@/(a7@] 37TR & R4Z[ L(/@ RTV]? O(48@ 8TN4W@/ YZ/a7@V JZ/7 VTTY_ ZWW(aNX(/@ X(V]3a(RZV8_ X(48@ "(aY R(/ZT JZ/7 "4ZaY RX(V/@43?
% 3'
-4/- !@<E17 (F8 '1F< *1==B7E -'))/### 0 !"1 ,($%#$(
!
*53
45+
*@(N/Z>NX 4(Va7 "F ONHN4F ^TW@3 T> MK'K6 ^Z87 @V] aN3/TW >@(/N4@3 /74TN87TN/6 . "@]_ . "(/7_ W(ZV ;TT4 T=a@ J0"NZX/[ZV3_ "(3@W@V/ 4@a 4TTW J0/7@(/@4 3@/ NR_ J@/ "(4 & "TVN3 3R(a@ >T4 PV] T>[ <a@ T4 a4(>/ 4TTW6 `TN4W@/ YZ/a7@V J0 7(4]JTT]_ 84(VZ/@_ 7Z87 @V] EE (RRXZ(Va@3_ ]TN"X@ TL@V_ 8(3 4(V8@_ & J(XY[ZV R(V/4F6
"#
.6G9 #32 *<8 '1F< *1==B7E -($)/### 0 !"1 ,&.)#%& E/NVVZV8 V@J 4(Va7 "F ONHN4F ^TW@3 ZV O@ Q(4]ZV6 ^Z87 @V] >@([ /N4@3 /74TN87TN/6 !NXXF <VZ37@] 7TW@ ZVaXN]@3 9 "@]4TTW3_ . "(/73_ W(ZV X@L@X 3/N]F_ 4@a 4TTW & >NXXF @5NZRR@] /7@(/4@ 4TTW6 `TN4W@/ YZ/a7@V6 ER([ XZY@ :Ra W(3/@4 "(/7 J0aN3/TW /ZX@ & @VT4WTN3 J(XY[ZV aXT3@/6
"!
*2 +. 0( 3 ,( ' 3 1/ +)
'3
1/
C6-G *@=2517B@7 *<8 !B75E1F -))#/### 0 !"1 ,(*'+%%
3 +)
"9;2C6C,C4:5 (CBG
F-- #C4://. #=>8/5 AC:2,4. -%+$/### 0 !"1 ,($%).$
?<-1 !3C: &/.4: (B5 '4.B (4==C:, -)../### 0 !"1 ,($%&*'
9/6G %>E2F0@<1FH (F8 '<, *1==B7E -%.)/### 0 !"1, (*+&#.
CCGG $@F? #B5)2 *BF;=28 '1F< *1==B7E -&()/### 0 !"1 ,(*&*+'
9 "@]_ 9 "(/7_ NRR@4 X@L@X XT>/0T>[ <a@ 3R(a@_ 4@a 4TTW_ /7@(/4@ 3@/ NR ZV "(3@W@V/6 AR84(]@] 7ZaYT4F a("Z[ V@/3 /74TN87TN/6 %N(X ^-,' 3F3[ /@W_ ^\`^O) @=aZ@V/6 O(48@ TR@V YZ/a7@V JZ/7 3/(ZVX@33 3/@@X (RRXZ(Va@3_ NR84(]@] 8(3 3/TL@ & WZa4TJ(L@6
(-%"./3!(32"#)03%
&
B@ +(XVN/ 4(Va7 RX(V "F CG I4TR@4[ /Z@36 : "@]_ . "(/7_ >NXXF <VZ37@] "3W/6 KR@V RX(V_ L(NX/@] a@ZXZV83_ JTT] ;TT43_ 84(VZ/@ aTNV/@43 ZV YZ/a7@V & "(/73_ 3/(ZVX@33 3/@@X (RR36 O(48@ W(3/@4 J0R4ZL(/@ "(/7 & X(48@ J(XY[ZV aXT3@/6 *3W/ 4@a 4TTW6 E@@ WT]@X 7TW@ (/ 9PP2 +TT]X(Y@6
'+!!
"9;2C6C,C4:5 (CBG
,,0
*@(N/Z>NX 4(Va7 "F ^TW@3 T> %Z3/ZVa[ /ZTV TV R4@WZNW J(XY[TN/ XT/6 KR@V X(FTN/_ 8TN4W@/ YZ/a7@V_ 84@(/ 4TTW J08(3 <4@RX(a@6 ER(aZTN3 W(3/@4 J0: Ra "(/7 & J(XY[ZV aXT3@/6 I(4/Z(XXF <V J(XY[TN/ "3W/ J0 P "@]_ >NXX "(/7 & 4@a 4TTW6 'TL@4@] "(aY ]@aY6 . a(4 8(4(8@6
*@(N/Z>NX S T> ( YZV] aTV/@WRT4(4F 7TW@ J0 84@(/ LZ@J? ^Z87@3/ 5N(XZ/F aN3/TW <VZ37@3 W(]@ 3R@aZ<a(XXF >T4 /7Z3 7TW@6 ER([XZY@ W(3/@4 "(/7 J084(VZ/@ J(XY[ZV 37TJ@4_ #N4TR@(V a("ZV@/ 3F3[ /@W_ aN3/TW W(]@ 3ZVY36 +(XY[TN/ "3W/ J0/7@(/4@ 4W6 I4T>@33ZTV(XXF X(V]3a(R@] "F E(V]F Ea7XZa7/6
%*##&, )-(&-$ U2D[:12[.U9P
]3a7ZaYDDS$(TX6aTW $"6. ,062 3/42+2/42/'1! ,#/24 8 ,+2*"'24 7 -)95%%(5&--9
:2J5<5..+:F(5<5.. % 4'6 31 +. 1-
#
(.F2 ,/33M)98; '/ %3/H *388O6K > NPA 4 J25&IJ
P#B ^Z J# !SU 'X\\^Z2@ 0 <XX3 V\+Z2" ^Z7 &\Md^Z9$ O (`d.O (+S8 &XZdX ?X3 bW0Y"YAA1 2V+&^XM2 W"/OQ 25 ?S" R,_P !TNNL &XZdX I. O (`d 6 2SMdE ) ?X3[+\ d^Z^Z9" O &+3 9+7 3+9` ) HaL## V+S^X2 ?X3 bO;Y"YAA1 Q (`d 6 2SMdE SXIZ8X[` I. O7&+3 9+3+9`" (+2`7 [`ZS ) V3^K+S` ?`Z&`d XMSdXX3 \^K^Z9 2V+&`2 ?X3 bO;0"YAAU NZ 2+\` ZXI ) +K+^\+(\` ?X3 [XK` ^Z R+E OAW:@
-%
)1-7 *=2/. (.//@5 A/==C:DB4: -$.)/### 0 !"1 ,(#.&))
E/F793; *4-Z" MaJ . )a"4XX[ 4-Z(; V7-Z J07NHN49XN3 3/-Z"-4" ]a-/N4a3S EX-49Z< aZ/4F 7a-"3 FXN /X -Z XVaZ <4a-/4XX[S E/NZZ9Z< ;-4"JXX" ?XX43S #7a<-Z/ \9/(;aZ J0 \ZX//F ,7"a4 6(9/F:3(-Va5 (-)9Za/4F$ V-Z/4F + 7-4<a ):]-3/ )-4S> V( [-3/a4S ,77 -V: V79-Z(a3 -Z" 7-Z"3(-V9Z< 93 9Z(7N"a"S *#// '#>7# (199:70" )5=2,,,28=,3
!7-J7a33 O!O .*% PE$ ZaJ 4XX]$ V-9Z/$ ,'$ P:^PK ^a-/a43$ <4-Z9/a 937-Z" -Z" 7X/3 X] 3NZ3;9Za_ IXVN7-4 *a/;8a E(;XX7$ (N7 "a 3-(:)-(89Z< /X XVaZ 3V-(aS *#// %10# &4:" )5=2,;62.=38
+6G6 !DB<2 (22F &78 !2==B7)<17 -$.%/### 0 !"1 ,($*#(+
,"$
MaJ Q93/9Z<_ `4a-/ = )"$ P )-/; /497aLa7 J9/; ZaJ ?XX4 (XLa49Z<3$ NV"-/a" J9Z"XJ3$ -Z" -Z -//-(;a" P (-4 <-4-<aS ';a(8 XN/ /;a ^B`# V49L-/a )-(8 F-4" UXLa4 W.$DDD 3R ]/TS `4a-/ (aZ/4-7 !/S 'X779Z3 7X(-/9XZS Qa[-F 3XN/; X] %4-8a /X KH]X4" QZS Aa3/ /X ;XN3aS *#// $1- ':<+#7!" )5=2,,52=;6,
%-2+3.0"(4!(32"#)03%
C664 &@F@:B2 #B02F (F8 '1F< *1==B7E -(%)/### 0 !"1 ,($'#$&
.*
+ '3
1/
F1E $0+4.2 %:5 '4.B (4==C:, -$)#/### 0 !"1 ,($'%''
*@(N/Z>NXXF NR](/@] 7TW@ JZ/7 (//4(a[ /ZL@ X(V]3a(RZV8 TV 5NZ@/_ aT4V@4 aNX[ ]@[3(a XT/6 +TT] ;TT43 /74TN87TN/ WT3/ T> /7@ 7TW@_ 84(VZ/@ aTNV/@43 ZV YZ/a7@V_ X(48@ W(3/@4 3NZ/@ JZ/7 J(XY ZV aXT3@/0XNHN4F "(/7_ (V] NRR@4 X@L@X 8N@3/ 3NZ/@6 !ZVZ37@] "(3@W@V/6
"-)$ 0&*)' !1('/'1('1+2# 0%1'( . 0/',-+'( ',-+'(
,'
("(
*,
. 3+
'
1/
-+.A ", *137<H #1@5 C8 '1F< *1==B7E -+*)/### 0 !"1 ,($#*&$
K@(a& Y2D:PP1:.YYD
--
+"$("1-**3(%!12"-+)5.2
IXVN7-4 !X3397 Q-8a G-Z(; >*% 1*, PE$ !M *EOC XZ 7-Z"3(-Va" W0. -(4a )-(8: 9Z< /X <4aaZ)a7/ ;-3 `XN4[a/ 89/(;aZ$ . !I$ Za-4 = X] !C' CXV G-/a" E(;XX73S *#// %10# &4:" )5=2,;62.=38
(-%"./3!(32"#)03%
P3D :F..0K Q P3D :G..0K
* +.,"& '33 , / 1 +) 2
-$
%/37 H"9 :2(.0K
* +.,"& '33 , / 1 +) 2
(-(. '/O11O6$ B3=M P6 4%Q2.F< %3/H *388O6K > NPA4 J2J(52
T+Zd[+3] aX[`2 MZK`^\2 ^S2 Z`I`2S \^Z` X? 5M+\^SE (M^\S &XZdX78X[`2 ^Z `2S``[`d !X27 2^\ T+]` L+Z&8U '8XX2` ?3X[ + O (`d.O (+S8 M3(+Z \X?S 2SE\` d`2^9Z ?3X[ S8` \XI bOAA421 MV SX + O"/:Q 25 ?S" ; (`d.: (+S8 [+^Z <XX3 [+2S`3 I^S8 O7&+3 9+3+9` +Zd =Z^28`d (+2`7 [`ZS ^Z S8` \XI bQAA42" +\\ !FTT- TN,%7 #% I^S8 2MV`3 MV2&+\` +Zd `Z`39E `>&^`ZS =Z^28`2U NS8`3 V\+Z2 ^Z S8` [^d bOAA42U
&5.( #?"60K L9?M '/ 42.&< P3E98?6; > NPA4 J25(G&
*3+Zd Z`I W"WAA6.7 25 ?S" O (`d.O (+S8 &XZdX2 I. XVS^XZ+\ 9+3+9`2" \X&+S`d ^Z S8` 8`+3S X? '`ZS`33+ I^S8 MV2&+\` =Z^28`2 \^]` 93+Z^S` &XMZS`32 +Zd (3XZC` =GSM3`2" V`3 V\+ZU ,[`Z^S^`2 ^Z&\Md` 2I^[[^Z9 VXX\" 8XS SM( +Zd &\M(8XM2`" V\M2 +\\ X? '`ZS`33+42 28XV2" 3`2S+M3+ZS2 +Zd [X3`@ FZ(`+S+(\` K+\M` 2S+3S^Z9 ^Z S8` bW;A42 I^S8 (M^\d`3 I+33+ZSE@ '+\\ ?X3 +K+^\+(^\^SEU
P3D H3 NO; :F..0K
* +.,"& '33 , 1/+) 2
*?88 !9/97C !3"6K36 !&#"$'$"%'%%
.2)2*#!12&)2",0/*2'+(2&
F2J& *?19 #?HH9/?K '/OE9 @O6;K3/ > NPA 4 J.&(((
JV`&S+&M\+3 Z`I [+^Z <XX3 [+2S`3 SXIZ 8X[` ^Z B+S`3 D+\\`E JXMS8@ c3+Z^S` &XMZ7 S`32" 8+3dIXXd ) S^\` <XX3^Z9" (3XZC`.Z^&]`\ =GSM3`2" =3`V\+&`" ,.'" 2S+^Z\`22 +VV\^+Z&`2" 2X\^d &X3` dXX32" &`^\^Z9 ?+Z2" 6 &+S8`d3+\ &`^\^Z91 O (`d2" \X?S ) (XZM2 3XX[ MV2S+^32U Q V\+Z2 SX &8XX2` ?3X[ +\\ I. (2[S" ?`Z&`d ?3XZS VX3&8 ) +SS+&8`d O7&+3 9+3+9`U !MSM3` V\+Z2 ^Z&\Md` + &\M(8XM2` ) \+]`.(`+&8?3XZS +[`Z^S^`2U 'X[[MZ^SE (X3d`32 #+9\` T+]`@
$"63 *.62 /,42(2,42,%-: *!,24 9 *(2'"%24 7 +&8150#1)&0)
www.coloradoan.com/homes | An advertising supplement serving Northern Colorado
REAL ESTATE WEEKLY SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2013 11
ENERGY EFFICIENT UPDATES ARE ALL THE RAGE RIGHT NOW, BUT WHICH ONES WILL HELP YOU SELL YOUR HOME AT A BETTER PRICE?
Greening to Sell By Alexandra Gallucci CTW Features Making “green” improvements on your home not only helps the environment, but it can also equate to sizable cost savings on your energy bill and your taxes. There are many options available when it comes to updating your home, but here are some points to consider if you want to determine which projects to tackle first. “There’s a lot of places you can start when remodeling or updating a home, especially if you’re getting ready to sell it, but the main places are around energy efficiency,” says Kane Sutphin, marketing director at TreeHouse, a green home improvement store in Austin, Texas. that helps customers find green alternatives to building and remodeling. Homeowners are increasingly concerned with their energy bills, and for good reason. The average household spends at least $2,000 a year on energy costs – more than half of which goes to heating and cooling, according to the most recent “Buildings and their Impact on the Environment” report from the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency. “For older homes, I think it’s very important that they have some of those upgrades because buyers – whether they’d like a new home or they’re buying an older home – are going to look at the energy costs, and the more they can save on energy costs, the more they can put towards the mortgage, so the more home they can buy,” says Jim Liptak, regional vice president of the National Association of Realtors. When it comes to energy efficiency, the most important improvement you can make on your home is to seal your air ducts, says Kristof Irwin, owner and lead building scientist of Positive Energy, a building science consulting company in Austin. Although duct sealing can be a difficult process, it can pay for itself in as few as three months, Irwin says. Energy Star, the EPA’s energy efficiency program, estimates that homeowners can save up to 20 percent on heating and cooling costs by sealing air leaks and adding insulation to their attic. “Having a non-leaky air distribution system, which See GREENING, page12
E Vine Dr
OLD TOWN
FC-0000384398
E Mulberry St
N Timberline Rd
N College Ave
Low Maintenance Patio Homes in Trail Head
Low maintenance patio homes in Trail Head by Triton Communities. Several models and options to choose from! Main level masters, ranch plan, open & spacious, perfect for entertaining, plus 9-foot ceilings throughout. Full unfinished basements. All this and just 5 minutes from Old Town 1 mile east of 125 on Vine Dr. Sebrina Osilka - Onsite Sales at Trail Head 970.361.6786 sebrina@tritoncommunities.com www.TritonCommunities.com
12 SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2013 REAL ESTATE WEEKLY
Ask our broker
An advertising supplement serving Northern Colorado | www.coloradoan.com/homes
Greening
(Continued from page 11)
Wall Street Goes Local Question: Wall Street banks are buying up huge numbers of singlefamily homes. How does this impact private homebuyers? Answer: We usually think of singlehome real estate investors as local people who buy several properties and keep them over time or as rehabbers who buy properties, fix them up and then quickly re-sell. The entry of Wall Street firms into the single-home market – as opposed to apartment ownership – is something new. The so-called "buy-torent" or BTR market generally includes six major firms, according to a recent Morgan Stanley report. Such firms, as of late summer,
Peter G. Miller
had purchased some 78,000 properties nationwide. Morgan Stanley says the BTR market could expand to more than $100 billion during the next few years, about six time its current size. In October, Bloomberg News reported that the industry leader, the Blackstone Group, had paid $7.5 billion to acquire 40,000 homes
during the past two years. So how does this impact the real estate marketplace? First, despite dollar figures that make the BTR market appear large, the market activity is relatively inconsequential on a national basis because existing home sale activity is huge, perhaps reaching 5 million units just this year. Second, the BTR companies are largely active in the major foreclosure centers: Florida, Nevada, Arizona and California. The more homes that are bought in such areas – regardless of who or what buys them – the better for all owners. Seen another way, the BTR movement is largely non-existent in many markets. If you're a buyer where
BTR firms are active, you may face additional competition. However, these companies are largely in the “bid low, fix up, hold long” business. A house in good shape at fair market value may be ideal for you but may not hold much interest for them. Overall, it's good that Wall Street is investing in local real estate and buying up foreclosures and short sales, properties that are usually sold at discount. A smaller inventory of distressed homes means less pressure to hold down prices, something most of us favor. © CTW Features Email peter@ctwfeatures. com. Due to volume, not all questions may be answered.
News Brief Household Holiday Cheer Here’s a holiday tip: Don’t forget to tip building staff Renters are feeling more fiscally comfortable this year, according to a survey by apartment listing website Rent.com, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’ll tip building staff. The doormen (and women), cleaning staff and other people working to manage apartment buildings shouldn’t get their hopes up this holiday season, if the results of the 2013 Holiday Tipping Survey are any indication. In fact, 25 percent of renters in staffed buildings say they do not think it’s necessary to tip at all. Interestingly enough, a slightly larger portion (28 percent) say they do not plan on tipping. The numbers of expect-
ed “appropriate” tip do not match with the actual amount people plan to tip. While 29 percent of respondents say that tipping $20 to $35 is the appropriate amount, only 20 percent plan to tip between $20 and $50 total. Survey numbers show that tipping is closely related to the way renters feel about their finances – 27 percent of renters said they are “more financially fit” than last year, so they plan to tip more as well. Of those who are feeling “stressed” about their finances, 14 percent say they plan to tip less this year. Those who are disinclined to give cash tips can take a cue from the 5 percent of
survey respondents who say they will give a homemade gift like baked goods or a hand-written note. Besides those who feel obligated to tip because of societal pressure, more than one-third of renters say they simply want to “share their appreciation” during the hol-
idays for their building staff. And while some building staff will feel stiffed by the holiday spirit, some will get lucky – of the 1,000 renters surveyed, 2 percent or 20 people say they would tip more than $1,000. © CTW Features
includes your ducts and your mechanical equipment itself, has positive effects for health, comfort, safety, durability and energy efficiency,” Irwin says. Only after sealing your ducts should a homeowner consider investing in new HVAC equipment, he says. Energy Star recommends replacement of heating systems that are more than 15 years old. Today’s high efficiency units operate at more than 90 percent efficiency. Regardless of the type or age of your equipment, changing your system’s air filter every month will improve its efficiency. But if you’re looking to make less costly improvements, here are some suggestions: • Energy efficient light bulbs: LED light bulbs use about one-tenth the energy of traditional incandescent bulbs. Although their upfront cost is considerably higher, many come with lifetime warranties. • Update your thermostats: “Smart” thermostats that can be controlled remotely will allow you to cut energy costs when your home is unoccupied. • Solar panels: The cost of solar panel installation has become historically low, thanks to a 30-percent federal tax credit on new renewable energy systems, as well as state and city grants. If you’re looking to sell your home soon, you’ll still be entitled to federal tax credits for efficiency updates completed within the same year. Be sure to highlight any green remodeling you’ve done to potential buyers, as these updates can help your home stand out in a competitive market. Whether you’re in the market to buy or sell, a Home Energy Rating System (HERS) score can measure a home’s efficiency as well as identify options for upgrading a home’s energy efficiency. © CTW Features
www.coloradoan.com/homes | An advertising supplement serving Northern Colorado
REAL ESTATE WEEKLY SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2013 13
Good
(Continued from page 5)
er or traffic patterns and try to observe some of the neighbors. You may even go so far as talking to some neighbors. It’s important to walk around, open your eyes and ears and make sure there isn’t anything you’re overlooking. That next-door neighbor practicing drums in the garage at 9 p.m. could be a source of immediate neighbor conflict. Go into it with eyes wide open. 7. Don’t buy the best house on the block Simply put, avoid buying the best house on the block because there may not be any room for your investment to grow (unless you physically have the house moved to a better neighborhood). It’s better to buy the worst house on the best block, because you can im-
prove the house to add value to an already great location. 8. Is it a fixer-upper? If you’re buying a fixerupper, make sure you understand what you’re getting into. Did you set out to buy a home that needed work? Or does the home just happen to be in the most desirable neighborhood, the block of your dreams? Do your homework upfront. If you want to build an extension or add another story to the property, make sure it is within local zoning or building codes. Have the property inspected so that you know exactly what you’re getting yourself into. Sometimes, what appears to be a simple kitchen needing cosmetic work turns out to be a huge project. Ask yourself repeatedly if your life can
support a home renovation. Not only does a renovation take money, it takes time, energy and emotional stress. 9. Will the home hold its value? A good real estate agent who’s been working the neighborhood for some time can vouch for the long-term value or investment potential of the property. But be sure to find ways to add value, or at least be certain the home will hold its value. The market may be strong when you purchase, but ask yourself, “Am I in a seller’s market?” “What would happen to this property if the market changed tomorrow?” Check out the median home value in the neighborhood as it compares to neighborhoods around it. The Zillow Home Value In-
dex gives you one, five, and 10-year snapshots of how home values have gone up or down in neighborhoods and cities. 10. Taxes, dues, and fees Many people overlook the monthly fees associated with homeownership. Nearly every property will have taxes, and any sort of planned community or homeowners association (HOA) will have regular assessments. Be sure that the amount of property tax and assessments are clear from the get-go. If in doubt, go to city hall or do research online. If you’d be buying into a condo complex, be sure to get your hands on the meeting minutes, financials of the HOA and the condo documents. Any mention of changes coming down the
pike? Does the HOA seem well funded? It could take one quick $10K assessment to immediately affect property values if you need to turn around and sell your new home. And any uncertainty about the building, its integrity or the financials could scare off buyers when it’s time to sell. Reprinted by permission from Brendon DeSimone who is a Realtor, a regular HGTV contributor, a Zillow blogger, and one of the nation’s leading real estate experts. He has collaborated on multiple real estate books and his expert advice is regularly sought out by print, online, and television media outlets including The Today Show, Good Morning America, CNN, FOX News, Bloomberg, CNBC, and Forbes.
dos allll done? o--d ng my tto Gettttiin
. e e r t S Ea s
GET CONNECTED
LOG ON TODAY.
Cross more off the list. First you got the young couple, just back from their honeymoon, into the loft with the romantic roof-top deck. Then you reviewed your ad results with your local consultant. And even had time to fire off a few professionally designed digital brochures to prospects. All before lunch. The key to your productivity? Working smarter with helpful tools from Apartments.com.
Get more done every day with Apartments.com. Visit us online or call (888) 658-RENT. ©2012 Classified Ventures, LLC. All rights reserved.
M E D I A
G R O U P
www.coloradoan.com/homes | An advertising supplement serving Northern Colorado
Real Estate Transactions
REAL ESTATE WEEKLY SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2013 15
The following information about recent real estate sales is supplied by Weekly Homebuyers List, Inc. of Lakewood. Names, addresses, cities, ZIP codes and phone numbers of all new homeowners are available from Weekly Homebuyers List, Inc on sticky labels. Call (303) 744-2020 or visit www.weeklyhomebuyerslist.com
Bellvue • 5701 Rist Canyon Road; Buyer: Matthew Glascott; Seller: Donald & Marlene Huntley; $180,000
Fort Collins • 1936 Oakwood Dr.; Buyer: Ashley Meis; Seller: Edna V. Lynn Revocable Living; $123,700
• 3400 Stanford Road, Unit A127; Buyer: Cristina Aragon; Seller: Jessica L. Smillie; $92,000 • 405 Princeton Road; Buyer: Rob & Michelle Carey; Seller: Ray & Kimberly Dixon; $199,900 • 6920 Autumn Ridge Dr.; Buyer: Maxie Glockzin; Seller: Deirdre E. Oneill; $234,900
• 701 Skyline Dr.; Buyer: Jeanne & Patrick Hayes; Seller: Albert L. Sly; $192,500
• 3030 Eastgate Lane; Buyer: Sanika & Anant Chitari; Seller: Jane P. Cornelius; $250,000
• 2204 W. Magnolia Ct.; Buyer: Nina Emery; Seller: Jeanne & Patrick Hayes; $215,000
• 809 Province Road; Buyer: Christopher Smith; Seller: Ruben & Xochitl Fragoso; $265,000
• 2513 Clearview Ave.; Buyer: Kristen & Karen Davenport; Seller: Otto & Dorothy Timm; $226,000 • 1140 Elm St.; Buyer: Steven Fassnacht; Seller: Audrey J. Ross; $264,000 • 1232 Maple St.; Buyer: Carolyn & Brandon Reynolds; Seller: David S. Bowen; $350,000 • 612 Lupine Dr.; Buyer: Laurie Tesch; Seller: Karen Jean Kingsley; $145,000 • 2257 Marshfield Lane; Buyer: Gene & Lisa Gustafson; Seller: Journey Homes LLC; $205,000 • 1933 Winamac Dr.; Buyer: Nicole White; Seller: Encore Homes LLC; $217,100 • 4716 Springer Dr.; Buyer: Michael Nass; Seller: Stephen L. Nass; $235,000
• 2308 Strawfork Dr.; Buyer: Coleman & Molly Hogan; Seller: Gregory & Ruth Bruny; $270,000 • 1154 Spanish Oak Ct.; Buyer: Phyllis Freeman; Seller: Donna J. Wick; $280,000 • 1529 Faraday Circle; Buyer: Olivier & Brooke Pinaud; Seller: Richard & Cori Ramirez; $299,000 • 2617 Mathews St.; Buyer: John Weidenfeller; Seller: Robert Jones; $305,500 • 939 Snowy Plain Road; Buyer: Richard & Mary Kohlman; Seller: William & Kathryn Tschida; $360,000 • 2219 Tanglewood Dr.; Buyer: David & Jacquelyn Bowen; Seller: & Elizabeth Richard; $370,000
• 845 Campfire Dr.; Buyer: Kristen & Aaron Johnson; Seller: Melody Homes Inc; $283,300
• 802 Napa Valley Dr.; Buyer: Clifford & Janice Moore; Seller: Trevor J. Boomstra; $599,000
• 332 Snowy Owl Circle; Buyer: Francis & Nichole Randazzo; Seller: Stephen & Rebecca Denton; $295,000
• 1000 Belvedere Ct.; Buyer: Bernard Seguin; Seller: Wendy & Joseph Hubbeling; $627,500
• 329 E. Elizabeth St.; Buyer: Rachael Coffren; Seller: Christopher & Charles Patti; $305,000
• 2960 W. Stuart St., Unit D302; Buyer: Lillianne Gress; Seller: Geoffrey A. Valdez; $115,900
• 1712 Cottonwood Pt. Dr.; Buyer: Dennis Brant; Seller: Joyce N. Everitt; $521,500 • 3215 Town Center Ct.; Buyer: Wesley & Joan Carter; Seller: Charles Smith; $661,000
• 1610 Westbridge Dr., Unit 22; Buyer: Matthew Raff; Seller: Martin & Martin Maccarty; $159,000 • 1649 Casa Grande Blvd.; Buyer: James Maney; Seller: Okey Reese; $212,000
See TRANSACTIONS page16
Transactions
• 3702 Full Moon Dr.; Buyer: Peter & Brooke Kardos; Seller: Charles & Valerie Kopel; $372,500
(Continued from page 15) • 1543 Birmingham Dr.; Buyer: Michael Szotek; Seller: Dorothy & Jerome Lunde; $235,000
• 3832 Big Dipper Dr.; Buyer: Donglin Ji; Seller: Geana L. Guthrie; $378,000
• 3401 Dixon Cove Dr.; Buyer: Jesse & Gloria Stauff; Seller: Heather & Heather Harmuth; $256,000
Johnstown • 5025 Ridgewood Dr.; Buyer: Debbie Dieterich; Seller: Oakwood Homes LLC; $328,900
• 3509 Omaha Ct.; Buyer: Sean & Anthony Theis; Seller: Kevin & Jennifer Cronin; $262,500
Laporte
• 1913 Etton Dr.; Buyer: Jeffrey & Kendra Anderson; Seller: Todd & Christine Hammel; $296,000
• 2722 Mcconnell Dr.; Buyer: Amy & Craig Greenwell; Seller: Ann M. Milton Revocable Trust; $344,000
• 1011 Ashford Ct.; Buyer: David & Carla Timm; Seller: Edward R. Kelly; $395,000
Loveland
• 730 Mcgraw Circle; Buyer: Andrea Stewart; Seller: Joe & Heather Behrends; $395,000
• 999 Peaceful View Place; Buyer: Luke & Tara Carleo; Seller: David & Kathy Spencer; $450,000
• 4214 Idledale Dr.; Buyer: Jesse & Terra Willard; Seller: Wayne & Marilyn Hochstetler; $433,500 • 5225 White Willow Dr., Unit L110; Buyer: Marvin & Deborah Gillette; Seller: Dawn L. Stroh; $152,000 • 1903 Prairie Hill Dr., Unit A; Buyer: Dani Belinski; Seller: & Stephanie Nathaniel; $189,000
3 PM N 1E SU S U O H OPEN
• 5618 Harrison Ave.; Buyer: Kay Grenzkoch; Seller: Fannie Mae; $80,000 • 3409 Black Walnut Ct.; Buyer: Janet Jones; Seller: Dylan M. Degrazio; $150,000 • 1935 Grays Peak Dr., Unit 104; Buyer: Quanhong Zhu; Seller: Lindsay Jackson; $151,300 • 1609 Avondale Dr.; Buyer: Mary Heuton; Seller: Fannie Mae; $177,900 • 2531 W. 44th St.; Buyer: Brian & Angela Williams; Seller: Cynthia & Steven Wolpert; $179,500 • 4009 Boxelder Dr.; Buyer: Mark & Jan Dundis; Seller: Ian E. Eldredge; $210,000
• 103 S. Cleveland Ave.; Buyer: Elvis Licul; Seller: Tina L. Dadamo; $100,000 • 405 E. 7th St.; Buyer: James Arnett; Seller: Dana L. Reckling; $200,000
• 4068 Cottonwood Dr.; Buyer: Randy & Mya Kliner; Seller: Raquel & Jasper Ellison; $222,000
• 380 Blackstone Circle; Buyer: Michael & Cheryl Schmitt; Seller: Annette F. Hopper; $275,000
1
• 3142 Spring Mountain Ct.; Buyer: John & Sosamma Samuelburnett; Seller: Mark D. Debra A. Mowry Revocab; $430,000
• 4605 N. Franklin Ave.; Buyer: Brian & Joanna Dagostino; Seller: Terry & Sandra Anderson; $219,000
• 2146 Blue Duck Dr.; Buyer: James Marlowe; Seller: Jared & Krystal Diller; $220,000
• 5238 Southern Cross Lane; Buyer: Nickolas & Erica Mccormac; Seller: Ross & Renee Ridgeway; $294,000
An advertising supplement serving Northern Colorado | www.coloradoan.com/homes
• 2294 Paonia St.; Buyer: Kelley Carter; Seller: Jasper & Karolyn Johnson; $239,900 • 1879 Winchester Ct.; Buyer: Nathaniel & Stephanie Barclay; Seller: Jeanne Wilson; $245,000
BEST DEAL IN SE FORT COLLINS BACON, PRESTON, AND FOSSIL RIDGE PRICE JUST REDUCED
1413 WIMBLEDON COURT Just Listed
One-of-a-kind custom 3 BR 3 BA ranch style home located in FTC’s premier neighborhoodLindenwood. 2/3 acre lot on private cul-de-sac backing to spacious greenbelt. Greatroom features wet bar, gas FP, vaulted ceilings, skylights, & a bonus loft area. Walk-in-closets in every bdrm, lake access! $610,000
Scott Sutherland 970-980-1069
FC-0000384334
Excellent location, top schools, family centric neighborhood, views, and FOUR bedrooms ABOVE grade! GE Profile appliances in the huge kitchen with tons of storage, 42’’ cabinets and center island! Everything a family wants including: Front porch, back patio, oversized garage, full basement, upstairs laundry, walk-in closet, 5 piece MBB, loft, fenced backyard, living room has open ceiling, gas fireplace and amazing sunlight. Fresh paint, very well maintained, ready to move in! 6221 Carmichael Street • Fort Collins • $322,900 FC-0000384314
Derek Filkins 970-567-3337
• 507 Prairie Clover Way; Buyer: April Greer; Seller: Aspen Leaf Constr LLC; $257,800
• 4414 Stump Ave.; Buyer: William & Cheryl Bock; Seller: Yongli Zhou; $260,000 • 1795 Uncompahgre Dr.; Buyer: Roger & Melynda Cahalan; Seller: Kerry Dale Cahalan; $270,000 • 5240 Brandywine Dr.; Buyer: Ryan & Bevin Beck; Seller: Michell & Wilbert Howard; $335,000
Check out these open houses in Wellington! 4250 Cypress Ridge
$284,900
• 1490 Rhode Island St.; Buyer: Ricky Dill; Seller: R. R. Homes Lov Inc; $397,100 • 4750 Georgetown Dr.; Buyer: Jay & Sarah Winter; Seller: Aaron & Dion Dowding; $440,000 • 2625 Boise Ave.; Buyer: Richard & Melinda Denney; Seller: James & Shirley Richey; $600,000
Open House Sat 10-12 and Sun 1-3 MLS#721989 Triple Crown Homes a local custom builder presents The Derby 3 bd/2 ba/3 car garage home w/ beautiful craftsmanship & quality around every corner.
4262 Cypress Ridge Lane $289,900
Red Feather Lakes • 102 Tiny Bob Road; Buyer: Jeremy Lewchuk; Seller: Paul & Thelma Phifer; $89,000
Severance • 905 Cliffrose Way; Buyer: Jennifer & Cody Kalous; Seller: Ed & Tara Peek; $211,300 • 36960 County Road 23; Buyer: James & Catherine Steving; Seller: Allison Lynn Strauss; $250,000
Place a Hot Property Mimi Toliuszis mimitoliuszis@gannett.com 224-7800
Open House Sat 10-12 and Sun 1-3 MLS#724072 Triple Crown Homes also presents the gorgeous Belmont 3 bd/2 ba/3 car garage home w/ tons of upgrades throughout!
Get a jump start on your home search in 2014! Call Matt for a list of pre-MLS homes for sale.
Matt Michel
FC-0000384375
16 SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2013 REAL ESTATE WEEKLY
Keller Williams Realty Northern Colorado
970-420-9327
thewellingtonteam@gmail.com