Rovena Flores

Just Listed!

2011-12-31T08:44:00.001-07:00

This beautiful home is looking for a new owner.

2416 E 139th Pl

2011-11-02T19:46:00.001-06:00

UNDER CONTRACT!

Reminder, change your clocks

2011-11-02T19:13:00.000-06:00

September Real Estate Stats for Colorado

2011-10-19T11:51:00.001-06:00

JUST LISTED! 4134 W 107th Dr

2011-10-14T14:00:00.000-06:00

Legacy Ridge Golf Course Community

August Real Estate Stats

2011-09-14T11:49:00.004-06:00

July Real Estate Stats

2011-08-16T20:53:00.003-06:00

Barnet Parke in Thornton

2011-07-18T16:00:00.003-06:00

June 2011 Denver MLS Statistics

2011-07-12T19:34:00.002-06:00

Gaylord Complex to Create 1,800 Jobs When Complete

2011-06-23T13:29:00.000-06:00

A Western-themed convention center planned for the Denver suburb of Aurora will rival ritzy hotels of Las Vegas, create a $1 billion economic impact after 2015 and generate thousands of jobs, according to the Nashville-based entertainment and hospitality company planning it.

The chairman and chief executive officer of Gaylord Entertainment, Colin Reed, said Tuesday the complex will create about 2,000 construction jobs and 1,800 permanent jobs when it's complete and cited the company's reputation as the employer of choice in major meeting markets.

Gaylord hired Hensel Phelps Construction Co. of Colorado as the general contractor for the project, and officials said they hope to break ground by mid-to-late 2012.

Gaylord has a track record of building large, elaborate hotel and entertainment centers, and Reed said it has been looking at the Denver-Broomfield region for over three years. The company already has hotels in Nashville, Tenn., Orlando, Fla., Dallas and Washington.

"Out of the top 20 big hotels in the country, we have four. If I were to draw a line between Chicago and Dallas, and looking at everything west of there, the only thing like what we're building is in Las Vegas," Reed said.

The convention hotel will be located about 10 minutes from the Denver International Airport on 85 acres of LNR Property, a real estate company based in Florida.

"As the developer of the surrounding property we couldn't be more pleased to have a partnership for building a gateway to the region," said Justin Kennedy, co-CEO for LNR Property. "Maybe we just weren't bold enough to dream this big."

Officials said the complex will be Western-themed in keeping with the region's cowboy and livestock trademark, but Gaylord spokesman Pete Webb said the design specifics are still in the works.

"The hotels embrace the area to significantly represent the theme of the area. But we're still in the design phase so we don't have specifics about what Western-themed means specifically," Webb said.

Reed said the company chose a location near Denver because its target customer base looks for an experience that takes care of all needs under one roof. Gaylord builds night entertainment into its hotels and the one in Aurora will feature 400,000 square feet of exhibition and meeting space and an atrium offering views of the Front Range and the Rocky Mountains.

"The reason why big convention markets tend to be in places like Las Vegas, Orlando, San Francisco, San Antonio, it's not by chance. These are fun cities. People want to go where they can have fun," Reed said.

The city of Aurora has approved an incentive package to help build the $800 million complex. The Denver Post reports that the package was unanimously backed by the city councilors on Monday and is worth up to $300 million.

"What's so exciting about Gaylord is they're going to be bringing thousands and thousands of new visitors to Colorado who wouldn't be here otherwise," said Aurora mayor Ed Tauer.

The National Western Stock Show & Rodeo is expected to move to a facility near the planned complex. However, stock show organizers and Gaylord don't have a deal or a contract yet.

CEO and president of National Western, Paul Andrews, said the event has been eyeing the High Point site on the Aurora-Denver border for some time now and is excited about the prospect of having Gaylord in the area.

"The National Western Stock Show continues to work with the city of Denver as we explore the High Point area as a possible option for the National Western complex in the future," Andrews said.

The stock show has been considering a move because the 90-acre show is fenced in on all sides by highways, rivers, railroad tracks, streets and houses. The show draws thousands of spectators, farmers and ranchers and attracts a national crowd because it's a showcase for the latest in genetics and breeding.

Gaylord's flagship property is the Opryland Resort and Convention Center in Nashville.

Barnet Parke Energy News

2011-06-18T15:44:00.000-06:00

May 2011 Denver MLS Statistics

2011-06-17T15:32:00.000-06:00

April Stats

2011-06-06T15:09:00.002-06:00

Coming this fall, new Community in Thornton.

2011-05-02T13:27:00.001-06:00

Just Listed 13422 Jackson Dr

2011-04-29T12:46:00.000-06:00

Just Listed 6106 Grape Dr

2011-04-14T13:18:00.000-06:00

Just Listed 9772 Josephine St

2011-04-08T13:24:00.000-06:00

Just Listed 5502 E 128 Ct

2011-04-01T13:16:00.000-06:00

Just Listed 15075 Elizabeth St

2011-03-11T13:12:00.000-07:00

Just Listed 2469 Devonshire Ct, Apt 36

2011-02-24T13:10:00.000-07:00

Just Listed! 522 E 78th Dr

2011-02-23T09:07:00.006-07:00

This Stunning Home has over 1600 finished square foot, features Kitchen with Pergo Floor, Breakfast Nook, and Newer Dishwasher. There are 3 bedrooms on upper floor with 2 bathrooms and a Half Bath on main floor. Master Suite has a large Walk-in Closet and Private 4 piece Bathroom. The Laundry room is on the main Floor. Cozy back patio has slated cover and there is a Concrete Pad for a Hot Tub. Two Car Garage is 400 square foot. Fenced Yard, Landscaped and Sprinkler System in Front Yard! This home Fronts to a Greenbelt. Quick Possession and Ready to Move In!
This home shows like a Model! Come Home Today!

Road Trips in Colorado

2011-01-30T09:50:00.000-07:00

Charity and Volunteer Opportunities

2010-10-06T12:13:00.001-06:00

Happy Thursday

2010-09-02T15:40:00.002-06:00

Hope you are having a wonderful day. If you know someone who needs to buy or sell a home in Colorado, I would love the referral. Please call me at 303-204-7992.

New Listing 3788 W Exposition Ave

2010-08-06T14:02:00.002-06:00

This Duplex Home with over 3000 total square foot. Live in one unit Rent out the Other! Each side features 2 bedrooms and 1 Bathroom. Updated Kitchens, Bathrooms and Flooring. Ready to Move in! Convenient Location, Walking Distance to Local Shopping. Price $174,000

New Listing 12205 Locust St.

2010-07-09T19:20:00.005-06:00

This Stunning 2-Story Home has 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and 2 Car Garage. The home has many upgrades throughout which include-Upgraded Fixtures, Lighting, and upgraded Bathrooms. Beautiful Wood and Tile Floor and newer paint inside and out are sure to please. Family Room with cozy Gas Fireplace and built-in shelves. The Stunning Kitchen features New 42 inch Cabinets, Granite Counters, and Stainless Steele Appliances-Refrigerator, Dishwasher, Microwave and Gas Stove. Master Suite with Private 5 Piece Master Bathroom, Relax in Oval Tub. Room to Grow with
Unfinished Basement. Covered Front Porch, Fenced Yard, Sprinkler and Smoke Free!
Quick Possession and Ready to Move In! This home looks like a Model! Price $245,000

Interest Rates are in the News

2010-07-09T15:19:00.001-06:00

Just Listed 16761 Ivanhoe St, Brighton

2010-06-15T20:51:00.003-06:00

This Stunning Custom Built Ranch home is located on a full acre. Enjoy Full Mountain Views from your covered patio. The home offers 3 bedrooms,
3 bathrooms, Formal Dining Room, Great Room, Gourmet Kitchen and 4 Car Tandem Garage with 8 foot high doors and the third door is 10 foot wide. The Large Circular Driveway encompasses a beautiful waterfall and pond.
The home looks like a model with oversized doors, high ceilings, tile flooring and a Beautiful Stone Fireplace. The Gourmet Kitchen has breakfast nook, Cherry Cabinets, Granite Counter Tops, Stainless Steel Appliances include a Microwave Oven, Refrigerator and Dual Fuel Double Oven/Range with Hood. Master Suite has 5 Piece Private Bathroom with Jetted Tub and Shower. Laundry room on Main floor has a wonderful counter and Utility sink. Room to Grow with unfinished basement. Professional Landscaping and Fenced Yard, Smoke Free,
Quick Possession and Ready to Move In!

Kids Eat Free

2010-06-15T20:34:00.002-06:00

Free Days this Summer

2010-05-21T18:12:00.001-06:00

New Listing 3252 E 103rd Pl Unit 708, Thornton 80229

2010-04-20T13:02:00.003-06:00

This Stunning Ranch Condominium has spacious bedrooms with High Ceilings, Upgraded Master Bathroom, private covered deck with view of playground. The home looks like a model. Large Kitchen, New Stainless Steel Appliances included and dining area. Open Floor Plan, Living Room with gas Fireplace. Vaulted Ceiling, Central Air Conditioning, and Ceiling Fans. Laundry room has 3/4 Bathroom and washer/dryer are included. Attached 1 car garage, clubhouse and pool community. Close to Park, local restaurants and shopping. Price $144,000.00 Quick Possession and Ready to Move In!

Nuggets and Avalanche Special Ticket Prices

2010-04-16T16:30:00.002-06:00

CHFA Statewide Mortgage Credit Certificate Program

2010-04-15T13:40:00.003-06:00

The CHFA Statewide Mortgage Credit Certificate ( CHFA MCC) program allows first time homebuyers and certain qualified homeowners refinancing a mortgage to claim up to 20 percent of their mortgage interest each year as a federal tax credit on their Federal Income Tax returns. CHFA offers MCCs statewide. To learn how to reduce your federal income taxes with this program, click here. or see below.

Coldwell Banker Special Ticket Prices for Nuggets and Avalanche

2010-03-30T00:20:00.004-06:00

For Nuggets tickets visit http://www.pepsicenter.com/nuggets/coldwellbanker.asp
For Avalanche tickets visit http://www.pepsicenter.com/groups/avalanche/coldwell

Market Watch for March

2010-03-23T10:31:00.004-06:00

Buy Local

2010-02-23T07:46:00.001-07:00

Sweetheart Appreciation Special

2010-02-16T16:23:00.002-07:00

Happy Valentines Day!

2010-02-14T00:02:00.002-07:00

Just Listed 3925 W 104th Ave #D

2010-02-13T15:17:00.002-07:00

I am proud to present this lovely Townhome located at 3925 W 104th Ave #D. Visit my website at RovenaFlores.com and click on the link on left for Featured Properties.

Photographers

2010-02-13T15:06:00.002-07:00

I recommend Randall K Roberts as a wonderful wildlife photographer.

I recommend Kaela Green as a wonderful family photographer.

Both of these photographers are experienced and delightful to work with.

349 Apache Plume

2010-01-30T10:45:00.000-07:00

Do you know the buyer for this home?

Weekly Market Update

2010-01-29T17:39:00.000-07:00

8104 Briar Ridge

2010-01-29T11:18:00.002-07:00

Do you know the buyer for this home?

Real Estate Stats last page

2010-01-29T10:33:00.001-07:00

Real Estate Stats continued

2010-01-29T10:30:00.001-07:00

Real Estate Stats

2010-01-29T10:19:00.002-07:00

First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit

2010-01-18T07:00:00.000-07:00

National Western Stock Show Special Ticket Price

2010-01-17T12:21:00.004-07:00

Denver Metro December Market Stats

2010-01-13T09:31:00.002-07:00

North Region Market Stats for December.

2010-01-13T09:17:00.003-07:00

Happy New Year!

2009-12-31T18:50:00.002-07:00

Thank you for all your support for the past year. I look forward to working with all your referrals in 2010.

New Listing 815 Snowberry St, Longmont CO

2009-12-14T13:23:00.002-07:00

Coldwell Banker Night Out with the Denver Nuggets

2009-11-18T11:23:00.003-07:00

Coldwell Banker Night Out with the Denver Nuggets VS Nets
November 24, at 7pm.
Click on title to get your tickets as soon as possible.

Holiday Photos

2009-11-10T10:32:00.004-07:00

Compliment

2009-10-20T16:21:00.006-06:00

Here is a Compliment by one of my satisfied and happy clients.
Thank you,

Rovena

Scenic Byways

2009-08-06T20:31:00.000-06:00

New Mortgage Regulations

2009-07-29T11:54:00.002-06:00

Mortgage Q & A

2009-07-21T14:21:00.000-06:00

Our message to buyers in today’s market is: “Act now.” And, that is my same suggestion to you. Act now and take advantage of all the wonderful offerings and opportunities available to you through our impressive Reality Check initiative. Make contacts, position yourself as an expert real estate professional, educate consumers and grow your business.

Reality Check: we can – and are – making a difference. Let’s keep the momentum going…today, tomorrow and beyond.

Weekly Market Watch

2009-07-17T13:55:00.000-06:00

Check out the Weekly Market Watch.

Back to School

2009-07-09T10:31:00.002-06:00

Favorite Summer Rodeos

2009-06-17T09:41:00.001-06:00

$8000 Tax Credit, call me today to see if you Qualify

2009-06-16T09:21:00.002-06:00

The new $8000 tax credit can go towards closing costs and buy down of rate for the house (it is done like a bridge loan) and paid by tax stimulus see link below to use!

http://www.realtor.org/home_buyers_and_sellers/2009_first_time_home_buyer_tax_credit

Nuggets Season Pass Special Ticket Prices

2009-05-18T14:07:00.001-06:00

April Stats

2009-05-18T14:01:00.002-06:00

Denver Area Residential Real Estate Brokerages Sales Compared

2009-05-13T13:47:00.001-06:00

Sponsor Registration for Habitat for Humanity

2009-05-12T09:05:00.000-06:00

Golfer Registration for Habitat for Humanity

2009-05-12T09:00:00.001-06:00

Mountain Summer Events

2009-05-11T17:45:00.002-06:00

Nuggets Special Ticket Prices

2009-05-11T13:37:00.001-06:00

10780 Hickory Ridge Lane

2009-05-03T19:35:00.001-06:00

Do You Know the Buyer for this Beautiful Home!

Denver Nuggets, Discount Price Hurry!

2009-04-27T14:06:00.002-06:00

First Time Home Buyer

2009-04-27T09:43:00.002-06:00

more Real Estate Charts

2009-04-24T09:56:00.002-06:00

more Real Estate Charts

2009-04-24T09:53:00.002-06:00

more Real Estate Charts

2009-04-24T09:50:00.002-06:00

Real Estate Charts

2009-04-24T09:45:00.002-06:00

Colorado Bucket List

2009-04-22T14:11:00.002-06:00

Charm Home Staging: Helps You Prepare!

2009-04-20T09:57:00.000-06:00

Greetings! Welcome to CHARM Home Staging's monthly Staging and Interior Redesign newsletter!

This month we're excited to share a note about depersonalizing, staging tips and paint colors.Also, see our Spring Transformation flyer to receive 10% OFF your next project..

Feel free to share our newsletter with your office managers, team members, family, friends and clients! We look forward to helping you prepare your listings for a faster and more profitable sale.

Pack Collectibles & Depersonalize
Previewing owner occupied homes for sale can be an experience akin to walking through a thrift shop; hunting trophies, tiki barware and rooster collections. Oh my!

When selling, it can be difficult to emotionally detach from personal items but they only need to let go temporarily while the house is up for sale. Those personal touches that have made a house so very special to the owners could make it near impossible for the next family to envision themselves living there. Let prospective buyers see the house, not someone else's life story.

A home stager can come in for a nominal fee to show clients how to edit their personal belongings. By neutralizing the decor it opens the doors to sell and showcase the homes best assets. To be a serious seller, be objective and start turning your home into a truly marketable product.

Tip: If any item has that "I" factor - meaning a history of you in it, it is personal and will be viewed as that. Remove and pack these items.

Power Of Paint
Color can transform a home, add curb appeal, trigger a mood, highlight architectural features and change the perception of a shape or size of a room. Here are our favorite Home Staging color picks for the month:
Powell Buff, Benjamin Moore: Warm Tan
Hepplewhite Ivory, Benjamin Moore: Creamy Butterscotch
Silken Pine, Benjamin Moore: Light Green, brings nature in
Latte, Benjamin Moore: Exactly the color of a latte!
Burlap, Benjamin Moore: Light Brown, a shade deeper than Latte
TIP: Step out of the box from builder beige and explore other neutral alternatives to spark up your house. Create color palette that flows with ease. When painting for Staging, steer clear of colors that are too deep or too bright.

Thank you for taking the time to read our latest issue. We hope our money saving home staging will help your clients get their homes ready for sale.

Staging works, and in today's market it is the only thing that can help to sell a home other then lowering the price!

Denver Nuggets are in the Playoffs

2009-04-18T13:59:00.001-06:00

2009-04-14T14:25:00.002-06:00

Market Watch

2009-04-08T11:05:00.000-06:00

Market Overview

2009-04-07T11:54:00.003-06:00

Market Update

2009-04-06T16:14:00.003-06:00

HUD Special Programs

2009-04-02T08:42:00.000-06:00

HUD has special home buying programs available to Officers, Teachers, Firefighters, Emergency Medical Technicians, Non-Profit Agencies, and Local Governments.

Avalanche Special Price Tickets

2009-04-01T10:58:00.001-06:00

Tax Credit for New Homebuyers

2009-03-25T12:10:00.001-06:00

Happy Wednesday!

Tax Credit for New Homebuyers

There have been a lot of questions about the New Homebuyer Tax Credit. So, we thought we would put together a quick reference guide for you and your clients. We have also attached the form that your clients will need to fill out for their taxes with this email.

New Homebuyer Tax Credit Explained

FEATURE
CREDIT AS CREATED JULY 2008

APPLIES TO ALL QUALIFIED PURCHASES ON OR AFTER APRIL 9, 2008
REVISED CREDIT –

EFFECTIVE FOR PURCHASES ON OR AFTER JANUARY 1, 2009 AND BEFORE DECEMBER 1, 2009

Amount of Credit
Lesser of 10 percent of cost of home or $7500
Maximum credit amount increased to $8000

Eligible Property
Any single family residence (including condos, co-ops, townhouses) that will be used as a principal residence.
No change

All principal residences eligible.

Refundable
Yes. Reduces (or can eliminate) income tax liability for the year of purchase. Any unused amount of tax credit refunded to purchaser.
No change

Purchasers will continue to receive refund for unused amount when tax return is filed.

Income Limit
Yes. Full amount of credit available for individuals with adjusted gross income of no more than $75,000 ($150,000 on a joint return). Phases out above those caps ($95,000 and $170,000).
No change

Same income limits continue to apply.

First-time Homebuyer Only
Yes. Purchaser (and purchaser’s spouse) may not have owned a principal residence in 3 years previous to purchase.
No change

Still available for first-time purchasers only. Three-year rule continues to apply.

Revenue Bond Financing
No credit allowed if home financed with state/local bond funding.
Purchasers who utilize revenue bond financing can use credit.

Repayment
Yes. Portion (6.67% of credit or $500) to be repaid each year for 15 years, starting with 2010 tax filing.
No repayment for purchases on or after January 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009

Recapture
If home sold before 15-year repayment period ends, then outstanding balance of repayment amount recaptured on sale.
If home is sold within three years of purchase, entire amount of credit is recaptured on sale. Applies only to homes purchased in 2009.

Termination
July 1, 2009

(But note program changes for 2009)
December 1, 2009

Effective Date
Purchases on or after April 9, 2008 and before January 1, 2009. Repayment to begin for 2010 tax year.
All revisions are effective as of January 1, 2009

FHA Loan Limit Increase Update

We have noticed that many of you are still not aware of the recent FHA Loan Limit Increases. The loan limits have been returned to the higher amounts that were approved in 2008. Here is a summary of what the New FHA Loan Limits are

$406,250 - Adams, Arapahoe, Broomfield, Denver, Douglas and Jefferson

$460,000 - Boulder

$417,500 - Weld

$312,000 - Larimer

Weekly Market Watch

2009-03-23T10:04:00.000-06:00

It Was a Week of Surprises…And Best of All, Spring Has Sprung!

First, CNNMoney.com reported a sudden, unexpected surge in U.S. housing starts. According to the Commerce Department, housing starts rose to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 583,000 last month, up 22% from a revised 477,000 in January. The big surprise: Economists were expecting starts to decline to 450,000, according to consensus estimates by Briefing.com.

Furthermore, applications for building permits, considered a reliable sign of future construction activity, rose 3% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 547,000 last month. The other big surprise: Economists were expecting permits to fall to 500,000.

Also interesting this week, retail sales figures fell much less than expected in February, and surprisingly strong January sales were revised even higher. According to CNNMoney.com, “U.S. store sales showed a smaller-than-expected decline in February after an unexpected surge in January that was bigger than originally reported…The Commerce Department said total retail sales fell 0.1% last month, compared with January’s revised increase of 1.8%. Economists surveyed by Briefing.com had been expecting a decrease of 0.5% for February.”

So, is it safe to call this a trend? Are we out of the woods yet? It’s tough to say. In all honesty, you don’t know whether or not you’ve hit bottom until you’re on your way back up but it seems some of the critical signs are starting to show signs of life which is welcome relief for our wounded economy.

Also in the news this week, the Federal Reserve announced plans to purchase up to $750 billion in mortgage-backed securities and up to $300 billion in longer term Treasury securities. Our representatives at the National Association of Realtors applauded the plans noting “This is great news for American home buyers and homeowners because mortgage interest rates will continue at historic lows.”

What this means for Americans is that a greater number of home buyers will be able to purchase a home and homeowners facing challenges will be able to refinance into better terms. As NAR noted, “We already are experiencing a great improvement in housing affordability due to historically low interest rates and the Fed’s move will push affordability conditions to the best levels in 40 years. In addition, continued low rates will lessen foreclosure pressure and help stabilize home prices sooner, as more Americans buy homes and draw down inventory.”

Along the lines of mortgage relief, the Treasury Department this week launched a new website for consumers seeking information about the Obama Administration’s Making Home Affordable loan modification and refinancing program. The site, www.MakingHomeAffordable.gov, offers features including interactive self-assessment tools that will empower borrowers to determine if they are eligible to participate and calculate the monthly mortgage payment reductions they could stand to realize under the Making Home Affordable program.

This is a helpful site that we should all be sharing with our friends, families and clients alike.

Finally, on Friday, Jim Gillespie, president and CEO of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC, will participate in a discussion about the state of the housing market, live from the New York Stock Exchange on CNBC. This will occur on Friday at approximately 4:30 p.m. (Eastern).

Jim will participate on the “Roadmap to Rebound” segment hosted by Maria Bartiromo. Yale economist Dr. Robert Schiller and Sanjiy Das, CEO of CitiMortgage, will also participate.

In another powerful symbol of what our Coldwell Banker and Realogy leaders are doing on behalf of consumers and the real estate sector in general to enact change that will stimulate housing and ultimately the economy, Jim plans to call upon government leaders to enact a $15,000 non-refundable tax credit to ALL buyers and also a mortgage buy down that would bring rates to the 4-4.5% range. This, NAR reports, could generate an additional 840,000 home sales over 12 months. This home buying activity would have major implications in stimulating the overall US economy since NAR also reports that each home sold generates more than $60,000 in economic activity. The proposal would also have a greater impact on foreclosures than the current stimulus package. I hope you will all watch.

Now, with all of that exciting news for the week in tow, let’s take a look at our local real estate news:

• Boulder/Longmont—Our Boulder office reports that new listings are down 10% from the week before, but listing activity is still very busy. Sales in the second week of March increased by 23% (from the previous week). Showing activity continues to climb and based on Agent reports there are loads of buyers out there. They still are taking longer to pull the trigger than in past years, but not as many seem gripped by fear as a few months ago, as the increased rate of sales shows. Houses that are in top condition and under the median price ($539,000 in Boulder) are selling briskly, often within 10 days of listing. Our Longmont office reports that showings were off 11% from last week. We are seeing activity in the new builder market. Builders are offering some super incentives and buyers are seeing great values. We are still seeing a lot of buyers "sitting on the fence.” They are waiting for the interest rates to go down or they are waiting for the prices to decline—the problem, there hasn’t been much movement on either end. We are all waiting for the press to realize that real estate markets are local and we are not in any kind of drastic state here in Longmont.
• Conifer—Our Conifer office reports one new listing during the week. Four listings went under contract during the past week plus one buyer—one listing was under contract within one day of going on the market and one within two days. Showing activity continues strong with 34 showings during the week.
• Evergreen—Our Evergreen office reports a total of five new listings for the week. Two listings went under contract. We had 73 showings for the week plus seven Agent previews for a total of 180 thru mid-month.
• Denver Central—Our Denver Central office reports that buyers can expect to compete with other offers for ANY property priced under $250,000 in the Denver Metropolitan marketplace. There is renewed interest from buyers because of low mortgage rates, new tax incentives and an overall feeling that the Denver market has hit bottom in inventory. Anticipation is high that price increases will follow shortly.
• Devonshire—Our Devonshire office is reporting that even in these challenging times we are still setting showings at a pretty good rate so we know that buyers are out there. Buyers are very hesitant to make offers and commit to purchasing at this time as they are feeling the angst of the current economic conditions. With rates for mortgages dropping again, it may be the perfect time to buy. If sellers are pricing their homes correctly, they are selling. As real estate brokers, we continue to underscore our value as we are knowledgeable on what it takes to get transactions done. It would behoove consumers to use a full time real estate professional. We are making a concerted effort to get the good news out there when most news seems to be gloomy at best. It may be a great time to buy. Interest rates are fabulous and sellers are pricing their homes realistically at last.
• Douglas County—Our Southwest Metro office reports that our showings have increased as well as the attendance at our open houses. We have had several Agents report excellent turn out at their open houses and they have picked up buyers and listings. We had a phone call from an article regarding our community service that was run in last Sunday's paper. Our mortgage rep is quite busy and buyers are ready to start taking the steps to buy a home.
• El Paso County—Our Colorado Springs office is reporting steady sales and showing activity. We had our first VA listing cancellation due to the new government guarantee on VA loans. I suspect there will be a few more this week. Commercial financing is extremely tight and guidelines need to be checked daily. Work has stopped on the new mall at Highway 83 and Voyager due to construction financing changes.
• Larimer County—Inventory is increasing throughout Larimer County as the prime selling season inches closer. However, the market remains very price sensitive—so those sellers with super clean homes and terrific curb appeal will continue to have a leg-up on the competition. Many buyers are looking at foreclosures and short sales but due to substantial waiting periods for responses from banks, many don't have time to wait. With the change to daylight savings, we're seeing an increase in showings weekdays as buyers are able to view properties after work.
• North Metro—We have seen a big increase in activity in March so far. The lower-end market is very hot right now with multiple offers common. We are seeing increases in sales volume overall.
• Parker—Our Parker office is reporting that activity has increased and although we see more new listings on the market, the inventory did not go up because the sales activity is steady as well. Traffic through open houses was very high over the last weekend and the call volume on our listings has increased as well as an increase in showings. Sellers are now better educated through our Agents and are power pricing their homes to create more energy in the buyer pool. They also react faster to changes in the market.
• Southeast Metro—Brokers are very busy writing offers! In some cases, brokers are writing at least three offers before going under contract due to multiple offer situations. Showing activity continues to increase as we are now consistently setting over 500 showings a week. We are also seeing an upswing in traffic at our Previews properties, too.
• West Lakewood—Our West Lakewood office is reporting that open houses are very active. We had 19 groups at one home and 23 at another. It appears that many of the buyers are relocating or want to relocate from other parts of the country. Most Agents are working with from one to five sellers who are getting ready to place their homes on the market in April.

With spring break ending and the weekend weather outlook to be gorgeous, look for the first of the spring garage sales as well as lots of great homes holding open houses! For a schedule of open houses, go to www.OpenHouse.com or www.ColoradoHomes.com. Spring has sprung!

Until next week,
Make it a great one,

Chris Mygatt
President and Chief Operating Officer
Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Colorado

Positive Perspective, Highlighting the Upside of the Economy in a Chalenging Market

2009-03-20T12:11:00.000-06:00

I Dream of Denver: If you jumble together the five most popular American metro areas - Denver, San Diego, Seattle, Orlando and Tampa - you get an image of the American Dream circa 2009. These are places where you can imagine yourself with a stuffed garage - filled with skis, kayaks, soccer equipment, hiking boots and boating equipment. These are places you can imagine yourself leading an active outdoor lifestyle. read more here http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/17/opinion/17brooks.html?_r=1&emc=eta1

Homebuilders a bit more upbeat: Index shows that builders were slightly more optimistic in February compared to January. read more here http://money.cnn.com/2009/02/17/real_estate/builders.reut/index.htm

Colorado foreclosures fall in 2008 for 1st time in years: Colorado foreclosure activity fell last year for the first time since the state began collecting data in 2003, according to a report released Monday by the Colorado Division of Housing. read more here http://denver.bizjournals.com/denver/stories/2009/02/23/daily4.html?surround=etf

S&P: Denver had smallest 2008 home-price decline of 20 U.S. cities: The monthly S&P/Case-Shiller Home Price Indices said average prices of existing homes in Denver fell 4 percent between December 2007 and December 2008, less than any of the other 19 cities in the report. read more here http://denver.bizjournals.com/denver/stories/2009/02/23/daily22.html?ana=e_du_pap

Weld stands tall among nation's agriculture counties: LA SALLE - Despite encroaching suburbia, Weld County this year remains among the top 10 places in the nation in agricultural production. A federal census report conducted every five years ranks Weld as the No. 8 agricultural county nationally, with a market value for its products at $1.54 billion. read more here http://www.denverpost.com/ci_11809432

Denver Zoo earns environmental recognition: The Denver Zoo has become the first zoo in the United States to earn an ISO-14001 certification for the entire zoo. The certification is the international standard for environmental management systems. The certification by NSF International is considered an honor, Denver city officials said today. read more here http://www.denverpost.com/search/ci_11834843

Denver ranks 7th on EPA list of most energy-efficient buildings: Denver ranks No. 7 among U.S. cities with the most buildings rated highly energy efficient by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency under its "Energy Star" program. read more here
http://www.bizjournals.com/denver/stories/2009/03/02/daily31.html?ana=from_rss

Facing Foreclosure – Should You Sell Short?

2009-03-19T11:26:00.000-06:00

Facing Foreclosure – Should You Sell Short?
By Rovena Flores

Facing foreclosure is one of the most difficult situations in which homeowners can find themselves. As the default notices pile up, a decision looms ahead: should you accept foreclosure, or attempt to do a short sale? Up until recently, it’s probably safe to say that you may not have even heard of the term “short sale,” let alone what is involved. For that reason, many homeowners have let their home be foreclosed on, not knowing that they have options. After all, the decisions you make in this difficult situation now will affect you for years to come.

A short sale is when a bank agrees to take less for the sale of your home than you owe on the mortgage. It is not for everyone of course. There are a few criteria you must meet if you are interested in exploring this option.
• The value of your home has dropped. As the prices of homes fall, it’s not unusual for a homeowner to find themselves owing $300,000 on a mortgage for their now $250,000 house. If a bank believes it can avoid less of a loss and receive at least a portion of what is owed on the mortgage, they will consider selling the property short rather than putting it into foreclosure.
• You have fallen on hard times. You will need to write a letter explaining your hardship and why you will not be able to pay the difference between what you owe on your mortgage and what you will sell the home for. Examples might include; unemployment, bankruptcy, death in the family, medical emergency or sudden illness and divorce.
• You have little or no assets. Your current finances need to support your hardship. The lender will likely look into your financial situation and if it finds that you owe other real estate, stocks, bonds or have cash in your savings account, the lender will likely determine that you can pay them back the shortfall.

Don’t be fooled of course. This won’t be an easy process. A buyer must first make an offer on your home before you will be allowed to qualify for a short sale. So even if you meet all the other criteria, it is dependent on the lender accepting the buyer's offer. If the offer is rejected, a short sale will not take place.
You’re also not going to walk away scot-free. There are consequences just as there are with foreclosures. If the lender does agree to the short sale, you may be issued a 1099 tax form for the forgiven debt and forced to pay taxes on the shortfall. For example, if the bank receives $250,000 for the sale of your home but you owe $300,000, the bank will consider that $50,000 a gift and you may be taxed.
However, the Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act of 2007 generally relieves homeowners of any potential tax liability for the shortfall, if the home was used as a primary residence. The provision applies to up to $2 million in debt forgiven through 2012. Due to the potentially complicated tax issues, you should speak to a real estate lawyer and/or a tax accountant to determine the amount of consequences you could face with to a short sale.
Just like a foreclosure, a short sale will show up on your credit report. It is considered a pre-foreclosure that has been redeemed. While that may not seem as bad as having a foreclosure on your record, it will affect your credit rating 200 to 300 points, which is identical to a foreclosure reporting.
The biggest difference between a short sale and foreclosure is how long you have to wait to buy again. Chances are you will be anxious to begin rebuilding your future by getting back into the real estate market as soon as possible. If you let your home foreclose, you may have to wait up to seven years to buy again. With a short sale, the waiting period is two years. But, if you were never more than 60 days late with a mortgage payment, you may buy immediately. It’s yet another important reason to not get behind on your payments. Even if you are in the process of default, continuing to pay your mortgage can get you into a new home sooner rather than later.

The first step to take is to build a team to support you. Find a local real estate agent who is educated about and has experience in working with foreclosures short sales. For instance, a brokerage like Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage has trained many of its agents in short sales to ensure clients receive the expertise and quality service they deserve. Your agent should be able to help guide you in the process, but will not be allowed to give you legal advice. For that, you will want to consult legal council to make sure you are protected. Taking the right steps now may be difficult, but may set you in the direction of making a full recovery.
-------------
Rovena Flores

Avon Walk for Breast Cancer Rocky Mountains

2009-03-18T10:31:00.000-06:00

Coldwell Banker
With Avon Walk for breast cancer rocky mountains

Coldwell Banker Relocation employees Ashley Wilson, Nancy Frank, Amber Baca and Debi
Thompson are walking in this years’ Avon Walk for Breast Cancer/ Rocky Mountain and have teamed up with the Colorado Avalanche to bring you a great promotion to help
fundraise for their team. They will be walking a grueling 39.3 miles, starting in Keystone and ending in Breckenridge which will take place over the weekend of June 27-28. A portion of each ticket sold through this promotion for the Avalanche game that night will go towards
their team fundraising effort. If anyone would like to donate in support they can visit the team website at www.AvonWalk.org/goto/CBRelo

Thursday, April 9th
7:00 p.m. @ Pepsi Center

Dallas stars vs. Colorado Avalanche
Coldwell / Avon Walk
PRICING
$65 Lower Level & Club Level
(Face value from $115-$94)
$30 Upper Level Corner
(Face value from $40)

TO ORDER:
Visit: www.pepsicenter.com/groups/avalanche/coldwellbanker
Or call Nate Christiansen at 303.405.1328

Special Ticket Prices for Elitches

2009-03-15T08:47:00.000-06:00

JOIN US FOR THE ELITCH GARDENS FUNDRAISER
SPRING SPIN: ONE GOOD TURN TO BENEFIT ANOTHER™
SUNDAY APRIL 19th, 2009 ¨ 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

We’re putting the FUN back into FUNdraising! Be among the first to enjoy Colorado’s premier theme park while helping us raise funds for our nonprofit organization.

TICKETS JUST $19.99

(less than last year!)
Children 3 and under and Adults 70 and over are FREE

We have been selected for the third year in a row as one of several groups participating in the sale of admission tickets to the fundraiser Spring Spin: One Good Turn To Benefit Another™ held in conjunction with the Park’s opening. Every year we've had a blast and we look forward to having you join in the fun with us this year!

Each ticket we sell earns $5 for Xylem Family Resource.

The more tickets we sell, the more money we raise.

Our goal is to sell at least 200 tickets this year. Help us reach our goal!

Two regular season tickets will be presented to the individual who purchases the most tickets for this event!!!! So, ask your friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers to join you in purchasing tickets for this special day!!!!

Purchase your tickets today! or by April 10.

Contact: info@xylemfamily.org or 303.756.0951

Your Spring Spin™ ticket includes:

· A chance to enjoy a private day for nonprofit organizations.

· A full day of unlimited rides with few lines.

· Spectacular shows and incredible attractions.

· A special FREE ticket to revisit the park any day between September 1 and November 1, 2009 (attached to your Spring Spin ticket)

· Turn your ticket into a Season Pass for only an additional $34.99. That's almost $25 in savings for a season full of fun (upgrade is purchased the day of the event at the park). This offer is valid only on the day of the event (April 19, 2009) and is the best price of the season.

For more information on Spring Spin visit http://www.springspin.com/events/elitchgardens

Special Ticket Prices for LaCrosse

2009-03-14T08:25:00.002-06:00

First Time Home Buyers Tax Credit

2009-03-11T14:11:00.001-06:00

Congress Enacts Bigger and Better
Home Buyer Tax Credit!

A tax credit of up to $8,000 is now available for qualified first-time home buyers purchasing a principal residence on or after
January 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009.
Unlike the tax credit enacted in 2008, the new credit
Does Not Have to be Repaid.

Contact Rovena for Details and
to find the home that meets your needs. Call Today!

Going Green

2009-03-09T09:05:00.000-06:00

Spring Ahead

2009-03-06T15:04:00.002-07:00

Parade of Homes

2009-03-03T14:22:00.003-07:00

Real Estate Stat Chart

2009-02-26T15:29:00.000-07:00

Real Estate Stats

2009-02-26T11:28:00.000-07:00

Important FHA Update

2009-02-26T10:02:00.000-07:00

Important FHA Update

Loan limits have increased for the Denver Metro! HUD has announced on 02.25.09 the hi cost loan limits. For specific counties please see:

https://entp.hud.gov/idapp/html/hicostlook.cfm

The Denver Metro area is back up to $406,250 for a single family home. (this is up from previous 2009 limits)

2 Family: $520,050

3 Family: $628,650

4 Family: $781,250

To include, Denver, Jefferson, Adams, Broomfield counties. Boulder county is at $460,000

This is great news but these amounts are still being implemented at the investor level so as such are not yet available but definitely coming soon. This is great news for the purchase season! That coupled with the stimulus benefits equals NOW is a great time to buy.

For HUD’s complete release please see:

http://www.hud.gov/news/release.cfm?content=pr09-014.cfm

Avalanche Game March 4

2009-02-25T17:06:00.000-07:00