A Guide To Home Ownership
Let's go shopping!
Table of Contents
Meet Janet Leap
Janet’s Achievements
Meet Janet’s Team
Concierge Services
Our Team is Your Team
The Home Buying Process
Getting Pre-Approved
The Home Search Process
Making An Offer
Home Inspection
Cash to Close
Monthly Payments
Glossary of Real Estate Terms
Where We Work
Re/Max: A Global Leader
Re/Max of Boulder
Boulder County Market Statistics
Good Karma: Our Circle of Gratitude
Our Schools: Boulder Valley School District
Our Schools: St Vrain Valley School District
Boulder Neighborhoods
Boulder County Communities
Client Testimonials
Janet Leap YOUR TRUSTED REAL ESTATE ADVISOR
In today’s market, it’s essential to work with a seasoned real estate professional who knows the local housing landscape. As a Boulder resident for 25 years and a Realtor for over 20 years, I bring deep market insights, a vast network, and expertise to support you in achieving your real estate goals. I’m proud to be consistently ranked in the Top 1% of real estate agents in Boulder County and to be associated with RE/MAX of Boulder, one of the nation's top RE/MAX offices. In 2023, I was honored to be the top-producing agent at RE/MAX of Boulder, closing 40 transactions with over $50,000,000 in sales
I don’t work alone. My dedicated team of professionals is eager to put our combined skills to work for you Whether you ’ ve sold many houses or this is your first time on the selling side of a real estate transaction, I will ensure you achieve your real estate goals.
I’m
excited to work together!
When you put together years of experience in the Boulder market, the willingness to speak truth, an adoption of the latest technology, and an insane work ethic, you get a realtor like Janet...If you're lucky enough to work with Janet, you'll feel and know she puts your interests first at all times.
Randy R. | Buyer + Seller
Janet Leap
Local Expert. Skilled Negotiator. Trusted Advisor.
Janet loves living and working in Boulder, and her deep involvement in the community is a testament to that passion She offers the perfect combination of local expertise, skilled negotiation, and a trusted real estate advisor who’s dedicated to your success.
LOCAL EXPERT.
Since moving to Colorado in 1997 and making Boulder her home in 2000, Janet has become deeply embedded in the community Need a recommendation? Janet always has one at the ready. Whether you ’ re searching for the best happy hour spot, a new hiking trail, or a trusted dentist, Janet is your go-to guide for all things local!
SKILLED NEGOTIATOR.
With over 20 years in real estate, Janet has honed her negotiation skills to perfection. She knows how to craft winning offers that are both creative and strategic, giving her clients a competitive edge. Thanks to her extensive network and respected reputation within the real estate community, Janet excels even in challenging negotiations. Her impressive track record of success, particularly in multiple-offer situations, ensures that you ’ re always in expert hands
TRUSTED ADVISOR.
When working with Janet, you can expect a thorough and thoughtful approach to the home search process She carefully reviews every property, providing insights on the pros and cons of each. With over 40 transactions in 2023 alone and a 95% repeat client rate, Janet has proven herself as a trusted advisor that clients rely on time and again She is committed to finding your perfect home with your best interests at heart
Janet’s Achievements
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENTS
Top 1% Boulder County Realtors | since 2015
95% Repeat and Referral business
Inducted into RE/MAX Hall of Fame | 2011
RE/MAX Lifetime Achievement Award | 2017
RE/MAX Platinum Club | since 2011
RE/MAX Chairman’s Club | since 2016
RE/MAX Titan Club | since 2021
RE/MAX Diamond Club | since 2023
Graduate Realtor Institute [GRI] | since 2008
Council Residential Specialists [CRS] | since 2010
Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist™ [CLHMS] | since 2023
2023 ACHIEVEMENTS
#1
Top Producing Agent at RE/MAX of Boulder
40 Homes Sold
1%
Top 1% of Boulder County Realtors
#40
Top Producing Agent at Re/Max Nationwide
#5 Realtor in Boulder by Volume
50M
Over $50 Million in Sales
My Team is Your Team Meet My Real Estate Team
My team of dedicated professionals work collaboratively to ensure you have a seamless real estate selling experience.
Elizabeth Zajicek BrokerAssociate+Designer Since 2009
Nicole Siklich Broker Associate Since 2020
Amanda Wember Director of Operations &
Amanda Sessa VP/SWBC Mortgage Since 2003
Lisa Kaplan TransactionCoordinator Since 2009
Todd Ulrich Owner/PG Rentals
Janet Leap Team Concierge Services
When working with Janet, you can expect a thorough and thoughtful approach to the home search process She carefully reviews every property, providing insights on the pros and cons of each With over 40 transactions in 2023 alone and a 95% repeat client rate, Janet has proven herself as a trusted advisor that clients rely on time and again. She is committed to finding your perfect home with your best interests at heart
What to Expect from a Real Estate Concierge Service
Comprehensive Support
Our concierge services offer end-to-end support for sellers, from prelisting preparation all the way through closing. We take care of the details so you can focus on your next chapter.
Access to Reliable Networks
We simplify the process of moving and home preparation by connecting you with trusted contractors and professionals.
Our extensive network includes:
Suppliers and Contractors
Home Inspectors and Handymen
Architects and Interior Designers
Movers, Cleaners, and Window Washers
And so much more Whatever you need, we ’ ve got you covered!
Your Resource for Life
Our goal is to exceed your expectations and make the selling process as seamless as possible. Many of our clients become lifelong friends, and we continue to provide ongoing support long after the sale We’re committed to being your go-to real estate resource for years to come
Our Team is Your Team Professional Service Providers
This is a partial list of our trusted contractors who will get the job done!
Appliance Sales & Repair
Cabinets & Counters
Carpet Cleaners
Cleaners
Drywall Installation & Repair
Electricians
Grout Cleaning & Repair
Handypersons
Hardwood Floor Installation &
Refinishing
Home Inspectors
HVAC
Landscaping & Sprinklers
Metal Fabrication
Movers
Organizers
Painters
Plumbers
Roofers
Tile Installation & Repair
Window Treatments
Window Washers
And many more
The Home Buying Process
1. Get Loan Pre-Approval
Start with a lender pre-approval letter. This step tells you how much mortgage you can afford and strengthens your offer when you find the right home Pre-approval sets you up for success in your home search
2. Buyer Consultation
We’ll meet to discuss your must-haves and preferences for your new home We’ll identify criteria that match your preferences and budget, set you up with an automatic search, and reach out to our real estate network to bring you off-market opportunities.
3. Visit Properties
Time to go shopping! We will explore various properties to find the perfect home for you
4. Complete Loan Application
If you ’ re financing, you’ll need to complete the full loan application before making an offer
5. Make an Offer
Once you find the right home, we’ll perform a comprehensive market analysis to determine the best strategic offer Our team, experienced and successful negotiators, will ensure the best terms possible
6. Deliver Earnest Money
After going under contract, you’ll deliver earnest money to the title company
7. Home Inspection
A thorough inspection uncovers potential issues and provides critical insights into the property’s condition. We recommend getting a home inspection to identify any issues with the structure or mechanical systems
8. Due Diligence Document Review
The seller provides all relevant documents, including manuals, invoices, surveys, appraisals, and previous inspections.
9. Appraisal
Your lender schedules an appraiser to confirm the property’s value. Homeowners Insurance. Shop around for homeowner’s insurance to protect your investment.
10. Final Mortgage Approval
Ensure your loan is fully approved before closing.
11. Final Walk-Through
We’ll walk through the property just before closing to confirm it’s in the agreed-upon condition and that any inspection items are completed
12. Closing
On closing day, bring any additional funds needed to the title company, sign all paperwork, and you ’ re officially the owner of your new home. We couldn’t be more excited for you!
Getting Pre-Approved
Before starting your home search, getting pre-approved for a mortgage is crucial. A pre-approval letter from a lender provides a preliminary commitment in writing, indicating how much you can borrow based on your income, assets, and credit information This step helps you understand your budget and strengthens your offer Most pre-approval letters are valid for 30-60 days. We can recommend trusted lenders if needed.
Here are some things to start getting organized:
Documents to gather:
Pay stubs for the last 30 days
Bank statements for the last 60 days [checking, savings, brokerage and investments]
Two years of personal and business tax returns [if applicable]
W2s for the past 2 years
Driver’s license or ID
What can you use as a down payment?
Down payments can come from a variety of sources. You can use your assets or assistance/gifts from sources which don’t need to be repaid
Liquid assets such as money in a checking or savings account
Investments
Family member gifts that do not need to be repaid
Loan approval key factors
Employment history
Debt-to-income ratio
Assets
Credit History
The Home Search Process
Now for the exciting part finding your new home! We’ll work together to understand your goals and provide continual market insights
Our Buyer Consultation:
We’ll discuss your preferences and set the stage for your home search.
Here are some questions we’ll go over:
What is your timeframe for moving?
Do you have an ideal location or specific neighborhood in mind?
Are there any particular school districts you prefer?
What type of home are you looking for? (Single-family, townhome, condo, multi-family, etc )
How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you need?
What’s your preferred square footage?
Any special features you want? {Home office, main floor master, extra storage, workout space, pet-friendly, space for entertaining, garage spaces, yard size)
You Found The Home Making an Offer
Once you find the right home, we’ll strategize and make an offer. We’ll review market data, assess competition, and consider your goals to craft a strong, strategic offer.
Making Your Offer Competitive:
Increase the offer price
Shorten the closing time
Offer a rent-back option
Put down non-refundable earnest money
Waive inspection, appraisal, and/or loan objections
We’ll stay in consistent communication with the listing agent and present your offer with a timeline for response Your offer may be accepted, rejected, or met with a counteroffer We’ll navigate each scenario with a focus on success
Home Inspection
Why we don’t want to skip this step
We highly recommend every buyer schedule a professional home inspection This step is crucial as it uncovers potential issues and provides vital insights into the home’s condition We’ll assist you in setting up the inspection and be present to discuss the results with the inspector. After the inspection, you’ll receive a comprehensive written report detailing any recommended repairs.
Based on the inspection results, you might choose to request additional inspections or ask the sellers to complete repairs before proceeding. Our team will help you interpret the report and navigate the next steps in the negotiation process.
The Inspection Evaluates:
Appliances
HVAC (Heating and Cooling)
Plumbing
Electrical systems
Roof
Structural integrity
And more
Additional Inspection Options
Mold Test
Radon Test
Sewer Line Scope
Septic System Test [if not on city water]
Cash to Close
Your cash to close includes several components:
Down Payment
This is the amount you contribute to the purchase price of your new home. Typically, buyers put down a minimum of 20%, but many loan products allow for lower down payments, sometimes as low as 3%.
Discuss your options with your mortgage loan officer.
Earnest Money
This deposit, made after your offer is accepted, is credited towards your down payment
Additional Funds to Close
Besides the earnest money and down payment, there may be other costs, including:
Lender Fees
Title Fees
Transfer Taxes
Deposits for Escrows and Prepaids
Monthly Payments
Understanding your monthly mortgage payment is essential Your lender will provide a worksheet outlining all estimated costs included in your payments
Components of a mortgage payment typically include:
Principal Interest
Property Taxes
Insurance
HOA Fees (if applicable)
Private Mortgage Insurance (depending on your down payment)
Glossary of Helpful Real Estate Terms
Appraisal | An appraiser conducts an appraisal of the value of the home
Appreciation | Increase in the value of an asset that’s caused by external economic factors occuring over time
Closing | The final step in financing a home that involves signing all documents at the title company
Closing Costs | The fees a seller and buyer pay to complete the real estate transaction
Concessions | Incentives such as payments for closing costs, necessary repairs, or personal property such as furniture that a seller offers the buyer to close the sale
Due Dilligence Documents | Seller provides buyer with any documents pertaining to the home
Earnest Money | A deposit, held by the title company, to buy a home
Escrow | The holding of funds or documents by a neutral third party prior to closing. This is typically a done by a title company
Home Inspection | Buyers hire an Inspector to provide detailed information on the major systems in the home
Home Sale Contingency | A provision in a contract stating that they buyer has a home to sell prior to purchasing the replacement home
Inspection Credits | The amount a buyer asks a seller to pay or credit back to them at closing to fix issue[s] that come up during the inspection process
Loan Application | Buyer to have loan application completed for the lender
Loan Approval | Formal authorization for the buyer to get the loan from the lender
MLS | A comprehensive database available to real estate professionals with detailed information on most homes on the market
Possession | Upon completion of closing this is the date buyer can take possession of the property
Post-Occupancy | An agreement where the seller is able to remain in the home for a specified duration after the closing
Property Taxes | Annual amount paid by a property owner to the local government or the municipal corporation
Seller's Property Disclosure | Seller’s disclosure of conditions that they know about their home
Success Fees | These are the fees paid to the listing and selling real estate agents
Title | A title is evidence by a deed recorded in the county records office that verifies ownership of real property
Title Insurance | Title insurance is a form of indemnity insurance that protects the holder from financial loss sustained from defects in a title to a property
Where We Work
We are proud to work throughout Boulder, Broomfield and Weld Counties. Boulder
Gunbarrel
Nederland
The RE/MAX Advantage A Global Industry Leader
With a presence in over 100 countries and territories, the RE/MAX network’s global footprint is unmatched by any other real estate brand. RE/MAX has helped millions of families buy or sell a home. RE/MAX is the most recognized real estate name on the planet. From Switzerland to St. Croix and New York to New Zealand, distinguished customers associate RE/MAX with the best agents in the business. RE/MAX is also the most advertised brand in real estate.
50 Leading real estate company for nearly 50 years
110 Operating in over 110 countries and territories
80,299 Re/Max Agents in the U.S. and Canada
140,000 Real estate agents world wide
RE/MAX of Boulder A Local Real Estate Leader
With over 45 years of serving the Boulder Valley, RE/MAX of Boulder stands as the leading real estate company in the area. Our team comprises over 100 award-winning Realtors, each averaging more than 15 years of experience As dedicated local experts who live, work, and raise families in our community, we have earned our place among the top RE/MAX offices in the U S
We are proud to be a part of the distinguished RE/MAX of Boulder team!
Boulder County Market Share | July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024
Boulder County Market Statistics
Good Karma
Our Circle of Gratitude
Giving back to the local community - and the world at large - brings it full circle. Every time we sell a home, we donate to one of these extraordinary nonprofits:
A PRECIOUS CHILD supporter since 2015
HEIFER INTERNATIONAL supporter since 2012
YMCA OF NORTHERN COLORADO supporter since 2010
"I HAVE A DREAM" FOUNDATION supporter since 2015
CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL COLORADO supporter since 2016
SOIL BOULDER supporter since 2023
DAIRY ARTS CENTER supporter since 2018
SAVE THE CHILDREN supporter since 1999
ST JUDE CHILDREN'S RESEARCH CENTER supporter since 1999
CU CONFERENCE ON WORLD AFFAIRS supporter since 2016
SANDY HOOK PROMISE supporter since 2017
MERCY CORPS supporter since 2011
Want to know more about these nonprofits?
Just ask Janet, she's always excited to tell you about her nonprofit partners, or learn more at www.janetleap.com
Boulder County Schools
Boulder Valley School District
Boulder County offers award winning, exceptional educational opportunities There are two separate school districts as well as open enrollment opportunities
Boulder Valley School District
BVSD consistently ranks among the top school districts on Colorado’s Front Range and was recently awarded #2 in the state (Niche 2023).
Covering 500 square miles and serving 11 communities, BVSD operates 56 schools and boasts a 91.3% on-time graduation rate. Learn more about BVSD at www.bvsd.org.
Middle Schools: 19
Charter Schools: 5
Elementary Schools: 36
High Schools: 15
Boulder, Broomfield & Weld County Schools
St Vrain Valley School District
Boulder County offers award winning, exceptional educational opportunities There are two separate school districts as well as open enrollment opportunities
St Vrain Valley School District
St. Vrain provides a rigorous academic foundation with over 70 instructional focus programs and offers open enrollment opportunities. It has the highest graduation rate in the Metro Denver area at 93.3%.
Learn more about the St Vrain Valley School District at www.svvsd.org.
Middle Schools: 13
Charter Schools: 6
Elementary Schools: 29
High Schools: 12
Boulder Neighborhoods
DowntownBoulder
TheHill
Chautauqua
SouthBoulder
CentralBoulder
NorthBoulder
OldNorthBoulder
EastBoulder
UniversityofColorado
Gunbarrel
Downtown Boulder
The vibrant heart of Boulder, centered around historic Pearl Street, is known for its brick-paved pedestrian walkway lined with unique shops, acclaimed restaurants, and Victorian-era architecture.
The Hill
Adjacent to CU’s campus, this neighborhood is a social hub featuring a lively mix of food, drinks, and live music popular among students and visitors
Chautauqua
Located at the base of Boulder's Flatirons, Chautauqua is renowned for its scenic beauty and historic significance, centered around the Colorado Chautauqua, founded in 1898.
South Boulder
Known for its laid-back lifestyle and beautiful trails, South Boulder offers easy access to national laboratories and is nestled into the foothills.
North Boulder (NoBo)
Once an industrial area, NoBo is now a vibrant neighborhood attracting young families, artists, and new businesses, including breweries and artisan shops.
Boulder Neighborhoods
Central Boulder
Geographically central and close to major attractions, Central Boulder is a bustling hub with hotels, cultural institutions, and renowned restaurants.
Old North Boulder
A small enclave north of downtown, Old North Boulder features midcentury modern homes, urban farms, and the distinctive Ideal Broadway Shops and Community Plaza Shopping Center
East Boulder
Offering slightly lower real estate prices, East Boulder is home to a growing tech industry and a variety of progressive restaurants, coffee shops, breweries, and winding bike trails
University of Colorado
Founded in 1876, the University of Colorado Boulder shapes the city’s progressive identity with its 786-acre campus featuring Tuscan Vernacular Revival architecture, expansive greens, and shaded alcoves.
Gunbarrel
Situated northeast of central Boulder, Gunbarrel combines established neighborhoods with newer construction, offering diverse options for homebuyers in a lively area.
Boulder County Communities
Broomfield
Overview: A thriving economic center, Broomfield is the 5th fastestgrowing city in the nation, benefiting from its location along the DenverBoulder corridor. Major employers include Interlocken Business Park and Flatiron Crossing Mall.
Population: 76,121
Erie
Overview: Located 15 miles east of Boulder, Erie offers a small-town atmosphere with new residential and retail developments. It’s named the #2 top city in Colorado for raising a family.
Population: 36,888
Lafayette
Overview: Just 12 miles east of Boulder, Lafayette provides small-town charm with single-family neighborhoods and parks. The downtown area is being revitalized, supported by its affordability compared to neighboring cities.
Population: 30,441
Longmont
Overview: Known for its affordability, Longmont is business-friendly with strong economic development. Located 16 miles northeast of Boulder, it features a historic downtown with diverse retail options, including big box stores and a newly renovated mall.
Population: 98,444
Louisville
Overview: Frequently ranked as one of the best places to live in the country, Louisville offers family-friendly single-family neighborhoods, good schools, parks, and an historic Main Street with independent shops and restaurants It also features a mix of redevelopment projects and office space
Population: 20,128
Boulder County Communities
Lyons
Overview: Situated 17 miles north of Boulder, Lyons is the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, offering a picturesque Colorado setting with abundant nature and recreational opportunities.
Population: 2,132
Nederland
Overview: Nestled in the mountains 17 miles from Boulder, Nederland provides a rustic lifestyle with stunning scenery, close proximity to Eldora Ski Resort and Indian Peaks Wilderness, and a charming local scene with cafes, restaurants, and shops.
Population: 1,495
Niwot
Overview: Positioned halfway between Boulder and Longmont, Niwot features stunning estates and more affordable properties. The historic downtown area boasts eclectic stores, restaurants, and restored buildings.
Population: 4,097
Superior
Overview: Known as the Gateway to Boulder Valley, Superior is centrally located 10 miles west of Boulder. It’s recognized by Money Magazine as one of the “Best Places to Be a Kid” and features one of the nation’s largest indoor sports facilities. The downtown area offers a blend of residential styles, lodging, diverse retail, and dining options
Population: 13,446
Client Testimonials
Janet Leap was absolutely incredible to work with as a first time homebuyer. Her experience in the Boulder County market is unparalleled...After closing she had a person for every project for us to work with for home updates and projects. Thank you so much for everything Janet!
Mike M. | First-Time Homebuyer
I had the pleasure of working with Janet while trying to find my new home in Longmont...Once I was able to complete the purchase, Janet was there with recommendations for contractors who helped me tidy up some things. I was lucky to have Janet on my “team” and would recommend her to anyone looking to buy or sell here in Boulder County Joe
D. | Buyer
[Janet] truly went above and beyond to make my experience as smooth and stress-free as possible. Not only did she save me money, but she was always available to answer any questions I had throughout the entire process Even after the sale was complete, she continued to be available and went out of her way to help with things outside of her responsibilities. She is knowledgeable, professional, and truly cares about her clients. I cannot thank her enough for all of her hard work and dedication.
Heath O. | Buyer
I've had the pleasure of working with Janet in multiple transactions as both buyer and seller. She has always tuned into my interests and priorties even as they have evolved over time and she brings an excellent understanding of the market and the real value of specific properties and locations. Finally Janet has been really good at negotiating on my behalf closing the deal even when it seemed there were low odds of "getting to yes " Could not ask for more!
Mike U. | Buyer + Seller
Janet is the best in Boulder County and beyond! She knows the market for both buyers and sellers and really goes above and beyond for her clients Last fall, we purchased our "forever home" with Janet's help Not only did she show us dozens of homes over several months, once we finally found the right home, she negotiated a great price...I highly recommend Janet - whether you are buying or selling (or both!).
Virginia
B.
| Buyer + Seller
Janet helped us buy and sell our condo in Boulder, CO, with impressive expertise. She has a high level of knowledge about the market. We wholeheartedly endorse her services.
Huihui
Z. | Buyer + Seller
Janet helped us buy our first home and without her I don't think we would have gotten it! She was very knowledgeable about every area we were interested in and had our best interests in mind throughout the entire home buying process! I would definitely recommend her to anyone hoping to buy or sell a home!
Taylor B. | Buyer
Janet has now helped me with five real estate transactions Each time she has amazed me with how professional, thorough and insightful she is. Her expertise has allowed me to have a pleasant experience and to feel confident in the decision making process.
Linda H. | Buyer + Seller
