Highlands Ranch Real Estate blog at www.DenverRelocation.com

Highlands Ranch Real Estate Broker reports Tree Recycling Offered to Highlands Ranch Residents

2011-09-23T10:23:00.000-06:00

Tree Recycling Offered to Highlands Ranch Residents

With the arrival of fall, it’s time to prune your trees and shrubs. But before you place tree branches and other woody plants out for trash collection, consider recycling these materials at the Highlands Ranch Metro District’s recycling event Sunday, Oct. 9 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Shea Stadium parking lot, 3280 Redstone Park Circle.

Tree limbs less than 12 inches in diameter and woody plant materials will be accepted at the recycling event. The following items will not be accepted - finished lumber, non-woody material, grass clippings, sod and root balls. In addition to tree recycling, free mulch will be available to Highlands Ranch residents.

If you have questions about the proper way to prune your tree, visit the Metro District’s website at www.highlandsranch.org and go to the Parks & Open Space page. Metro District Forestry Technician Caleb Palmer demonstrates the proper way to prune your tree in a new video short featured on the website. If you have further questions it is recommended you contact a certified arborist.

The Metro District will also host a Christmas tree recycling event from late December through mid-January. For more information about tree recycling in Highlands Ranch, please call 303-791-2710.

Founded in 1981 as the local government in Highlands Ranch, Colo., the Metro District provides a variety of municipal services to this planned community of 93,000 people. Learn more about the Metro District at www.highlandsranch.org.

Pete Doty has been a Full Time Licensed real estate broker since 1985 I go to work everyday for you & your friends, learning about our home town! It could be Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Littleton, Castle Rock, Centennial, Englewood, Parker, Elizabeth, Larkspur, Franktown, Kiowa, or anywhere in metro Denver Colorado. Talk to me for real estate advice, properties for sale, multiple listing service, all available at www.DenverRelocation.com. Drop me a note to pete@Denverrelocation.com

Denver Real Estate History-since 1989

2011-09-14T09:40:00.000-06:00

As I pondered why more folks are not buying up in a down real estate market, I realized that they have never seen this before. I on the other hand, have. The end of the Carter Reagan recession occurred in 1989-1990 and we saw a true turn in Denver's real estate market. This is one of the benefits of making sure your Realtor is a full time dedicated professional, not just a friend. Experience can pay dividends in multiple places. Here is a short clip explaining where we are:

Pete Doty, Denver Realtor has been a Full Time Licensed real estate broker since 1985 I go to work everyday for you & your friends, learning about our home town! It could be Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Littleton, Castle Rock, Centennial, Englewood, Parker, Elizabeth, Larkspur, Franktown, Kiowa, or anywhere in metro Denver Colorado. Talk to me for real estate advice, properties for sale, multiple listing service, all available at www.DenverRelocation.com. Drop me a note to pete@Denverrelocation.com

Denver Real Estate continues positive news

2011-09-12T13:20:00.000-06:00

Denver Foreclosures are still trending at 29% fewer than in 2010. This Realtor sees good news for home owners but worries there are not enough homes for sale.
A Full Time Licensed real estate broker since 1985 I go to work everyday for you & your friends, learning about our home town! It could be Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Littleton, Castle Rock, Centennial, Englewood, Parker, Elizabeth, Larkspur, Franktown, Kiowa, or anywhere in metro Denver Colorado. Talk to me for real estate advice, properties for sale, multiple listing service, all available at www.DenverRelocation.com. Drop me a note to pete@Denverrelocation.com

Real Estate in Denver. Available homes?

2011-08-17T14:51:00.002-06:00

Last month some say I gave you too much information (what????) about the Denver real estate market. Here is a short video of this month's chart showing only July new listings (periwinkle) and sales (cranberry). Major note: NEW LISTINGS are not coming on the market. Those are the properties that are new to the Denver real estate market and replacing the closed sales. There were only 3318 new listings and 2744 sales. Take a look:

I have watched this specific data every month for the last 12 years. The number one question I get is "How is the market?" Along with being an active listor and buyers agent in Denver, this lets me know the answer. And while a newby may be able to acess similar data, they will not have dealt with the emotions of the Denver home buyer and know what their decision process is like. When you want the best in real estate in Denver, give me a call or an e. I help nice folks find awesome places to live in Denver, Highlands Ranch, Littleton, Centennial, Englewood, Parker & Castle Rock Colorado

You to can stay on top of the market by subscribing to this blog or from http://www.denverrelocation.com/.I continue to be extremely optimistic about the Denver real estate market.

A Full Time Licensed real estate broker since 1985 I go to work everyday for you & your friends, learning about our home town! It could be Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Littleton, Castle Rock, Centennial, Englewood, Parker, Elizabeth, Larkspur, Franktown, Kiowa, or anywhere in metro Denver Colorado. Talk to me for real estate advice, properties for sale, multiple listing service, all available at www.DenverRelocation.com. Drop me a note to pete@Denverrelocation.com

Denver Real Estate Sales Edge UP

2011-07-20T13:15:00.002-06:00

As a Denver Realtor every month I do a quick analysis of the Metrolist (multiple listing service) sales data as well as new listing data for single family homes in metro Denver. This month, to show you what the real estate market is like in Denver, I did a short video...hopefully it will explain my excitment. This market is already taking off!

As I meet with folks trying to buy a home here, after all the national news of how bad the real estate market is, it is hard to explain that we are just a hair away from being in a full blown SELLER's MARKET! That homes are selling fast and there is very little inventory, as a matter of fact there were only 13,873 single family homes for sale in all of metro Denver on the 15th.

When a market shifts like it did in 2004, it can be very sudden to the point that the feeling of being left behind can be prevalent. And while a home search may not be all fun and games, the rewards of getting to the right house fast can make all the difference. So when you want to find a house to make a home here in Denver, or Highlands Ranch, or Littleton, or Centennial, or Englewood...call me.

A Full Time Licensed real estate broker since 1985 I go to work everyday for you & your friends, learning about our home town! It could be Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Littleton, Castle Rock, Centennial, Englewood, Parker, Elizabeth, Larkspur, Franktown, Kiowa, or anywhere in metro Denver Colorado. Talk to me for real estate advice, properties for sale, multiple listing service, all available at www.DenverRelocation.com. Drop me a note to pete@Denverrelocation.com

Denver Foreclosures down 30%

2011-07-06T15:09:00.011-06:00

Denver Realtor reports inventory shrinking and days on market are down too! Sellers market!

Fewer homes to buy mean prices will be going up. Fewer days on the market mean the buyers are sucking up the supply. The bottom of this real estate market in metro Denver Colorado is behind us. The time to act is now.
A Full Time Licensed real estate broker since 1985 I go to work everyday for you & your friends, learning about our home town! It could be Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Littleton, Castle Rock, Centennial, Englewood, Parker, Elizabeth, Larkspur, Franktown, Kiowa, or anywhere in metro Denver Colorado. Talk to me for real estate advice, properties for sale, multiple listing service, all available at www.DenverRelocation.com. Drop me a note to pete@Denverrelocation.com

CURB appeal...MORE important than ever in Denver

2011-06-14T07:27:00.001-06:00

Today, it is likely that the first "showing" of your Highlands Ranch Home listed for sale will be on the internet, with the pictures contained in the virtual tour taking center stage. Therefore, the "curb appeal" must be presented to its top level. And as most properties are listed with their address, the second "showing" may be the buyers driving by later in the same day.
Lets talk pictures for a minute...have you ever gone on-line and dismissed a property simply because there were no pictures? A full time Realtor will know the system to get you the maximum exposure. You do not want your home discarded before it even really hits the market so make sure the marketing plan addresses this important issue.
CURB APPEAL for that 2nd all important drive by. Here are some tips from a good friend and marketing guru Darlene LiCastro:

To enhance property, use the lawn rather than hiding it. A bag of weed & feed is a great investment.
Repair the driveway. Cracks are normal, but un-attended cracks tell others you do not care.
Have a clean garage and be sure to keep the garage door closed until the buyer inspects it.
Remove all debris from the lawn and keep nicely trimmed and edged. Toys & lawn tools get stored
Repair all damaged fencing. Loose boards are easy to nail back up.
Replace any damaged paving blocks around the entrance .
Make sure front is inviting and clean. NO cobwebs or sparrow nests.
Kill mold and mildew on the house, sidewalks, roof, or driveway.
Stow away unnecessary garden implements and tools.
Clean windows and gutters.
Pressure wash dirty siding and dingy decks.
Trim tree limbs that are near or touching the home’s roof.
Rake and dispose of leaves.
Low voltage lighting along the driveway, sidewalks, and near important landscaping elements create the perfect evening curb appeal.

Pete Doty is a Full Time Licensed real estate broker since 1985 and lives in Highlands Ranch. "I go to work everyday for you & your friends, learning about our home town!" It could be Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Littleton, Castle Rock, Centennial, Englewood, Parker, Elizabeth, Larkspur, Franktown, Kiowa, or anywhere in metro Denver Colorado. Talk to me for real estate advice, properties for sale, multiple listing service, all available at www.DenverRelocation.com. Drop me a note to pete@Denverrelocation.com

Denver Home Sales, Denver Realtor Explains

2011-05-24T16:49:00.000-06:00

The Denver real estate experts have been stating that sales are down and the bottom is still ahead of us. I guess they are correct IF they use the anomalous year of 2010, but if I were drawing the trend lines you would see that 2010 should have been the bottom of the market and a ski jump at the far right side of the above chart. Why was 2010 anomalous? The first time buyer incentive skewed the entire year of Denver's real estate sales into the first half of the year. That means more sales occurred in the early part of the year and the latter part of the year was very sparse. The ski jump trend of increased sales seems to have started in December of 2010.

The other bit that I find interesting is the number of "new" single family listings entering the market continues to shrivel. Back in 2006, 2007, and 2008 it was pretty steady, but then in 2009 and 2011 (2010 was an anomaly) it has really dropped with the fear of the economy. However with this uptick in closed sales, that may be changing in front of your very eyes. Want to know more about Pete Doty? Go to http://www.denverrelocation.com/ or listen to my podcast -Denver Realtor.

Living in Highlands Ranch the values have been fairly steady mostly due to the demographic nature of the total community. Lone Tree, Cherry Hills Village and Greenwood Village are similar. Other communities in town have suffered more due to the nature of the households, dual income, lower income, hourly workers, where a layoff or reduction in time on the job stressed the household income. Or it could have been "elective housing" with lots of toys that required debt service, or resort properties, which have really taken a beating in this past two years.

So the answer is, it is past time to make that move. Multiple offers due to lack of inventory are starting to raise their heads. The foreclosures are being "gobbled up" in any condition, and short sales are doing what they always have...create a huge amount of frustration for the Buyer, the Seller and both agents. They will become much more scarce in the coming months as folks start to see the light at the end of the tunnel.

A Full Time Licensed real estate broker since 1985 I go to work everyday for you & your friends, learning about our home town! It could be Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Littleton, Castle Rock, Centennial, Englewood, Parker, Elizabeth, Larkspur, Franktown, Kiowa, or anywhere in metro Denver Colorado. Talk to me for real estate advice, properties for sale, multiple listing service, all available at www.DenverRelocation.com. Drop me a note to pete@Denverrelocation.com

Denver housing statistics...what to look at

2011-05-24T16:14:00.000-06:00

I have been tracking the multiple listing service data here in Denver for about 11 years.

It seems to me there are 2 key indicators that indicate the health of the Denver real estate market.

(See a month to month comparison here). See the annual trends here and the way NEW Listings have declined here

ONE: The number of sales each month compared to the same month the year before: an increase is good a decrease is bad.

TWO: The number of new listings coming on the market each month: Fewer means fewer folks "testing" the market and a lower supply: GOOD. More means more folks "hoping" to get their price: BAD. I guess the optimism factor has to be looked at too, however that could mess up my neat little way of looking at things.

What I do know is that for the first time in a long time, as a Buyer's Agent the buyers I am representing are in a situation where they could be, and were facing competing offers. Good for the Seller, not so for the Buyer. This happened in the City of Denver and in Highlands Ranch. Simply, I have to know the feel of the market. You do not want to be surprised by loosing a home due to another offer, nor do you want them to over pay for that same home. In the late 1990's we used to say "The best deal we can get for you is to get you there first". That time could be very close.

Here is the unabashed sales pitch...you need an experienced Realtor to represent your interests when you buy a home in metro Denver Colorado, or anywhere else.
A Full Time Licensed real estate broker since 1985 I go to work everyday for you & your friends, learning about our home town! It could be Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Littleton, Castle Rock, Centennial, Englewood, Parker, Elizabeth, Larkspur, Franktown, Kiowa, or anywhere in metro Denver Colorado. Talk to me for real estate advice, properties for sale, multiple listing service, all available at www.DenverRelocation.com. Drop me a note to pete@Denverrelocation.com

Denver SHOWING ALERT! 15 minute sprint to show

2011-05-10T08:06:00.001-06:00

These showing tips for the DENVER HOME SELLER are from an awesome stager, Pam McCormick at Colorado Stage to Sell 303-788-0264

This just adds to my tips for getting ready to show your home in 15 minutes...take a look at http://www.denverrelocation.com/ShowingYourDenverHomein15MinutesDenverRealEstate.html

For the Denver homeowner, selling a home is a stressful time. It requires them to keep their house looking great at the drop of a hat. After they have had their home professionally staged, here are some suggestions you can give the seller to ensure the house is always ready for a showing.

-Have them purchase a large canvas laundry bag. (I have put my own together that I give to agents, called my "Show and Sell Bag") and in it put premoistened glass-cleaner wipes, furniture wipes, lint roller, air neutralizing spray and trash bags. Then when they get that last minute call for a showing, they grab their bag and go room to room picking up any items that keeps the house from being show ready (excess mail, toys, magazines, dirty laundry etc.) and put it into the bag. Then while in each room they wipe off the glass surfaces and furniture, use the air spray to freshen up the room, empty the trash and if no time to vacuum, use the lint roller to pick up any pet hair etc. They can then take the bag with them when they leave and then when they get home they can put all the items back in their proper place.

-Toss wet morning towels in the washer before heading off for the day.

-Roll all bathroom or kitchen rugs and tuck them under the sink in the vanity or cupboard.

-If they have pets they will need to make a plan ahead of time to take their pets somewhere when there is a showing. Pets should not be around during a showing. Put all pet dishes, beds and toys into a large trash bag and store out of sight.

-Always try to have a bowl of fresh fruit or fresh flowers available to place on the kitchen table. Make it a standard purchase at the grocery store each week.

Make sure to check out Pete's website at http://www.denverrelocation.com/

Pete Doty has been a full time licensed Denver Realtor since 1985. "I go to work everyday for you and your friends, learning about our home town! There are always discoveries!" It could be Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Littleton, Castle Rock, Centennial, Englewood, Parker, Elizabeth, Larkspur, Franktown, Kiowa, or anywhere in metro Denver Colorado. Talk to me for real estate advice, properties for sale, multiple listing service, all available at http://www.denverrelocation.com/. Drop me a note to pete@Denverrelocation.com

Feeding the Denver Hungry, Update

2011-04-04T13:14:00.011-06:00

Back in December I was feeling like I should do something with all the Blessings I have been given and decided to start a program where I would give $100 per closing to a charity. This idea was from a long lost Realtor friend Vince Seimer and he really plowed the field of the concept. OKAY, the picture is a little edgy but I really am thankful I do not have to stand out there every day to make a living.

So after consulting with both my pastor and the local Realtor Association the Inter Faith Community Services foodbank was chosen. My personal goal is to donate $2,500 to Inter Faith and to have you add to that by joining me at http://www.denverrelocation.com/JoinPete.html. You do not have to match me dollar for dollar, just add a buck or 2 to each donation. Once you sign up Inter Faith will let you know how much is due AND when other donations are made by me.

So how are we doing? So far $700 has been directly deposited with Inter Faith and there are matching pledges of $59 for each one hundred I donate [you could also buy or sell a home with me ;-) that would help too!]. To start all this I needed an appropriate picture and "moniker" to go on the card board sign. The photography was provided by Carol Grape of Grape Imaging free of charge.

By the way I have been a full time licensed Colorado real estate broker since 1985. I go to work everyday for you & your friends, learning about our home town! It could be Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Littleton, Castle Rock, Centennial, Englewood, Parker, Elizabeth, Larkspur, Franktown, Kiowa, or anywhere in metro Denver Colorado. Talk to me for real estate advice, properties for sale, multiple listing service, all available at www.DenverRelocation.com. Drop me a note to pete@Denverrelocation.com

Pete Doty's Real Estate Resume Denver Realtor

2011-03-24T12:58:00.000-06:00

A Full Time Licensed real estate broker since 1985 I go to work everyday for you & your friends, learning about our home town! It could be Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Littleton, Castle Rock, Centennial, Englewood, Parker, Elizabeth, Larkspur, Franktown, Kiowa, or anywhere in metro Denver Colorado. Talk to me for real estate advice, properties for sale, multiple listing service, all available at www.DenverRelocation.com. Drop me a note to pete@Denverrelocation.com

Denver Home Sales Steady, LISTINGS DOWN

2011-03-14T09:30:00.006-06:00

I am always interested in the sales numbers folks publish at the start of the month. The truth is, some Realtors "forget" to post sales early in the month. Others who generate reports utilize the entire Metrolist data base, which is not just "Denver" property listings. Each month I attempt to give you what I see based upon 26 years of dealing with these numbers.

And what I see this month seems to continue some good news, as the new listing count has again fallen versus last year in metro Denver. All this while sales stay consistent. Take a look...

Admittedly, I do not report the Denver Condominium market, nor the listings nor sales of townhouses in Denver as I believe a single marker works for all. In other words, as single family home sale/listings go in Denver, so goes the rest of the real estate market.

And after 11 years of tracking these Denver Colorado statistics, I have noticed many statistical changes and errors on the part of those reporting the data. Some of the hardest to catch were the expansion of the Metrolist data collection area and creating a definition of "DENVER" versus Ft Collins, Boulder, and Colorado Springs. All are, in some portion, included in Metrolists database.

So, to quote the National Association of Realtors, all real estate is local, in Highlands Ranch, Englewood, Centennial or "Denver".

Just for the record I have been a full time licensed real estate broker since 1985. I go to work everyday for you & your friends, learning about our home town! It could be Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Littleton, Castle Rock, Centennial, Englewood, Parker, Elizabeth, Larkspur, Franktown, Kiowa, or anywhere in metro Denver Colorado. Talk to me for real estate advice, properties for sale, multiple listing service, all available at www.DenverRelocation.com. Drop me a note to pete@Denverrelocation.com

Help Pete Feed The Hungry, One House at a time!

2011-02-01T18:12:00.005-07:00

A food bank can stretch a dollar a lot farther than we can.
So join me. Make a pledge for every home I close this year.
You do not have to match me dollar for dollar...pledge $1, $5 or $10 or????.
Every time I make a $100 donation Inter-Faith will contact you and let you know.
Then it is up to you.
I just want to help feed the hungry, and I would love your help.
Sign up today at www.DenverRelocation.com/JoinPete.html

Normal Healthy Rest - Denver

2010-11-28T13:19:00.003-07:00

Sometimes words come from un-expected places. Those above have been part of my life for the last few weeks, but not as I have been resting, rather training. What I am learning is that all markets have periods of growth and then rest. Just as man wakes up and stretches and rolls over and goes back to sleep, the real estate market may do that too.

However, there is a sense that we are about to see an amazing period of growth and "work" if you will. There are lots of reasons for this, but as the shopping season is hard upon us for the holidays, my wife confirmed some learning I had gotten....""I bought that at XYZ and it was 20% off the 20% off price". If you were asked today "What would be a good price for that $2400 refrigerator" my guess is you might say 40% off?

How does this relate to real estate in Denver? About a year ago I know of a house that would have sold (closed) for about 450k. Today maybe 400k. I have a client whose home was worth 385 -400k 2 years ago. Today it is listed for 329k.

People get excited about some prices and the fact is every market has normal and healthy rest periods just as we do when we sleep. Then when we wake we go off to work, and things start to grow again. That is what I see the Denver market doing...waking up...ready to grow.

Is it time for you to wake up too? Investment in real estate wise that is?

A Full Time Licensed real estate broker since 1985 I go to work everyday for you & your friends, learning about our home town! It could be Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Littleton, Castle Rock, Centennial, Englewood, Parker, Elizabeth, Larkspur, Franktown, Kiowa, or anywhere in metro Denver Colorado. Talk to me for real estate advice, properties for sale, multiple listing service, all available at www.DenverRelocation.com. Drop me a note to pete@Denverrelocation.com

Last night was COLD!!!

2010-10-11T13:58:00.003-06:00

Time to get the furncae tuned up and brought up to speed. Check out Tom D'Agostino's blog on the topic at http://www.cardomplumbingandheating.com/PlumbingandHeating/2010/10/it%e2%80%99s-time-to-get-your-heating-system-tuned-up/

Pete Doty is a Denver Realtor who has been a Full Time, Licensed, Colorado real estate broker since 1985. "I go to work everyday for you & your friends, learning about our home town! It could be Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Littleton, Castle Rock, Centennial, Englewood, Parker, Elizabeth, Larkspur, Franktown, Kiowa, or anywhere in metro Denver Colorado. Talk to me for real estate advice, properties for sale, multiple listing service, all available at www.DenverRelocation.com". Drop me a note to pete@Denverrelocation.com

A Denver Winter Day

2010-09-27T09:18:00.001-06:00

Residential, Industrial, Retail, Farm & Ranch?

2010-09-26T12:05:00.004-06:00

This morning I was considering Doctors and how they have specialties, oncology, internal medicine, etc... I would not want an anesthesiologist prescribing what I need for my eyes?

I guess it is the same in Real Estate and yet different. The basics of buying and selling real property is the same. People have to want to buy and people want to sell. The seller needs to grant, convey, let, etc etc. to the buyer. However getting to the deed is really the issue.

With residential, we use allot of experts to determine the "condition" of the property. Home inspectors, radon testers, septic pumpers, well flow tests, electricians, sewer scopers, and more I am sure I have forgotten.

In Farm and Ranch it is similar, yet different too. Is there a farm "dump"? Are all abandonned wells properly plugged and the same approved by the state engineer? How about the boundry corners...are they well documented? How are the fence lines? And right of ways are all recorded or are they just verbal license agreements?

Industrial might conotate EPA studies.
Office Leasing have CAM expenses.
Retail have TI issues and utilities.

One of the reasons I do not "operate on" industrial, or business brokerage, or a number of other real estate specialties is because I, just like my GP, do not know all the specifics required by each set of circumstances. But I do know when you do need someone else to give you advice. And that is the point...whoever you deal with you need to have the faith that they will tell you when you need a better provider.

I can tell you I am pretty good at residential real estate as well as land and horse property sales. Real estate has so many facets, one needs to be confident in their abilities. Call me if you want a "consult" about your situation.

Pete Doty has been a Full Time Licensed real estate broker in Denver since 1985 I go to work everyday for you & your friends, learning about our home town! It could be Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Littleton, Castle Rock, Centennial, Englewood, Parker, Elizabeth, Larkspur, Franktown, Kiowa, or anywhere in metro Denver Colorado. Talk to me for real estate advice, properties for sale, multiple listing service, all available at www.DenverRelocation.com. Drop me a note to pete@Denverrelocation.com

Houses still selling

2010-08-30T07:24:00.003-06:00

In Denver, in July, 2185 homes sold, prices are up, days on market are down and the number of sales year to date is also up. What the press and the National Association of Realtors did not tell you is that July almost always "slumps" compared to June. Here is the chart of sales in Denver since 1999 http://www.denverrelocation.com/DenverStatisticschart.html.

OK, I have stomped that to death. What am I seeing out in the market? Buyers who have decided to take advantage are being cautious. Sellers are nervous. Homes not in top condition are languishing on the market while homes in good condition are selling quickly. Neighborhoods that have had prices stay steady if not edge up a bit have continued their slow climb while others that were more impacted by lower prices have rebounded a little more quickly.

As an example in July the "Denver" metrolist there was a 7.4% increase in average sale price while having the average days on market drop 14.3% and total sales for the year to date were up 1.2%. The Highlands Ranch and Lone Tree sections of that same MLS indicate a 2.7% increase in average sale price while days on the market fell 3.9% and the total sales were up 4.2% from the previous year.

Is there a sweet spot? Yes and no...with interest rates as low as they are most folks are figuring out a way to re-finance. The sellers that need to move get realistic quickly on their price and condition. But if there is a spot it is in the 330-450k range as those folks want to move up, but cannot until theirs sells.

The range that seems most active is still in the 200k area although I have great traffic on a 279k listing with lots of showings. And a 349k home that languishes. A year ago I said the sweet spot was the million plus market as the small builders were folding their tents and leaving them with the banks. Now I think the move up market is the prime target.

Pete Doty - Denver Realtor - A Full Time Licensed real estate broker since 1985. I go to work everyday for you & your friends, learning about our home town! It could be Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Littleton, Castle Rock, Centennial, Englewood, Parker, Elizabeth, Larkspur, Franktown, Kiowa, or anywhere in metro Denver Colorado. Talk to me for real estate advice, properties for sale, multiple listing service, all available at www.DenverRelocation.com. Drop me a note to pete@Denverrelocation.com

Being organized helps

2010-08-26T10:56:00.002-06:00

From my friend Julie Gram at Naturally Organized some ideas that can help make life smoother, as well as when you are making a move across Denver or the country:

10 ORGANIZING TIPS:

Put "like with like" - that way you know what you have, how much you have, & when you may need replacements.

Purge: clothes, files, unwanted items in your home & office. Disposing of things you no longer wear, don't like, are broken or outdated will make room for lovely new replacements. Out with the old - in with the new.

Donate your discards to your favorite charity or church - consider it compassionate recycling & a tax deduction!

Sort & hang items in your closet by type: blouses, skirts, dresses... Colorize your wardrobe by going from light colors to dark ones so you can easily see & choose the item(s) you want to wear. Think of how a store displays their clothing.

Store things where they make the most sense to find & put away. If you put things in an illogical location (master closet has books, photos, kids toys, etc.), you will have a difficult time remembering where they are & where they belong. Define your closets & storage areas by what makes the most sense to put there.

Things should be convenient to locate & use. Ex: in a home office you should have the necessary tools & files nearby to do your work. Keeping supplies & files in other locations causes confusion, stress, wasted time, & you forget what you have.

Replace publications with updated versions to avoid an avalanche of paper - catalogs, magazines, investment prospectus, etc.

Instead of keeping an entire magazine for one or two articles, cut out the desired article & toss the magazine. Start a binder using sheet protectors & index dividers to catalog these articles for future reference.

Good layout of a room or office is very important for convenience & functionality as well as aesthetic reasons. If the rooms "feels" good & "works", you do too!

When overwhelmed with clutter - get help! A professional organizer can get the job done in a short period of time, & teach you great organizational skills. In the long run you will save money & a tremendous amount of time because you can find what you're looking for at a moment's notice & know where to put it when done!

You can contact Julie at 303-799-8032 or visit her www.naturallyorganized.com. These practical tips are just the beginning and I recommend anyone who fights clutter in their lives to give her a call for a initial consultation. I have clients who utilize the talents of professional organizers every 3-4 months just for the housekeeping aspects and keeping an orderly home.

Pete Doty is has been a Full Time Licensed real estate broker in the Denver Colorado area since 1985. I go to work everyday for you & your friends, learning about our home towns! It could be Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Littleton, Castle Rock, Centennial, Englewood, Parker, Elizabeth, Larkspur, Franktown, Kiowa, or anywhere in metro Denver. Talk to me for real estate advice, properties for sale, multiple listing service, all available at www.DenverRelocation.com. Drop me a note to pete@Denverrelocation.com. Pete Doty, your Denver Realtor.

Buyers need to know

2010-06-13T15:06:00.007-06:00

When considering buying a home in the Colorado Front Range area, especially in the metro Denver area, buyers really need to know the information I published at this page http://www.denverrelocation.com/11ThingsinHighlandsRanchRealEstate.html.
It is copyrighted and personal for your personal use only.
If you know of someone thinking of buying a home in Denver, send them this link. It could be very valuable to them.

As a reminder Pete Doty is a full time licensed Colorado real estate broker since 1985. He goes to work everyday for you & your friends, learning about your home town! It could be Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Littleton, Castle Rock, Centennial, Englewood, Parker, Elizabeth, Larkspur, Franktown, Kiowa, or anywhere in metro Denver Colorado. Talk to him for real estate advice, properties for sale, multiple listing service, all available at www.DenverRelocation.com. Drop him a note to pete@Denverrelocation.com

We need to ALWAYS remember June 6th 1945 The Longest Day

2010-06-03T15:43:00.003-06:00

Somehow I do not think Memorial Day should ever stop!
We always need to remember those who have given it all so we can do what we do.
In my case, help folks find, negotiate for, and buy or sell a home here in Metro Denver.
Last week I mentioned I had no memory of ever doing a contract on this weekend and especially on Memorial Day itself.

Well I sure "talked that into life". Thursday evening got a call, "we have a contract for you". That one did not come together and the buyer did not feel the seller was flexible enough. I guess they just would not come down to where his expectations were.

Then Friday evening I got another call: "we have a contract for you". This one we did come to agreement on after 2-3 back and forths on Monday and hopefully will be able to close in the month.

Finally got another call "we have a contract for you". And on Memorial Day we were trying to get the Seller and the buyer together, but there was too much separation. And interestingly, the Buyer has used the same tactics before, being reasonable up until time for a counter...they will never buy a home as long as they believe there offer MUST be accepted.

So thank you all, 3 contracts, only one deal, on memorial day weekend!
I am A Full Time Licensed real estate broker since 1985. I go to work everyday for you & your friends, learning new things about our home town! It could be Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Littleton, Castle Rock, Centennial, Englewood, Parker, Elizabeth, Larkspur, Franktown, Kiowa, or anywhere in metro Denver Colorado. Talk to me for real estate advice, properties for sale, multiple listing service, all available at www.DenverRelocation.com. Drop me a note to pete@Denverrelocation.com

Memorial Day Weekend --- Just Remember

2010-05-26T14:14:00.001-06:00

There are a lot of folks who went "over there" and never came back. This weekend is to remember them. And thank their families for their sacrifice. It never is too late, you know. And do not forget to thank all the veterans in your life. Personally,I was a lucky one as others went before I was called. They went so I did not have to. Thank you!

Now on to a myth...it is a busy weekend for home sales? TRUE or FALSE?
Well, for the past 24 Memorial Days, I do not recall writing a contract for anyone on this weekend. But I do know I have shown allot of properties, mostly on Saturday.Why? Well folks are planning weekend BBQs, family parties, and the kids can really tear the place up in 3 days.So what I know is while there will be a fair number of showings Saturday, there will be almost none on Monday, our day to remember.
Sunday, sometimes is quick paced but more often is a slow day. Whats the point?While I currently have Saturday available to show you homes, I might not be able to if you wait to call on Friday afternoon (which is already booked, BTW).So, if you are thinking this is the weekend to go out and look for a new home, let's talk about it early. And if you find something you want to buy, at an open house or just happen to be driving by, know the owner, whatever, I can represent you and be your buyer's agent. In other words, do not sign anything without calling me first.

And when you are talking to any of our veterans, say thank you for me too! I am A Full Time Licensed real estate broker since 1985 I go to work everyday for you & your friends, learning about our home town! It could be Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Littleton, Castle Rock, Centennial, Englewood, Parker, Elizabeth, Larkspur, Franktown, Kiowa, or anywhere in metro Denver Colorado. Talk to me for real estate advice, properties for sale, multiple listing service, all available at www.DenverRelocation.com. Drop me a note to pete@Denverrelocation.com

GOOSEFEST for Mother's Day?

2010-05-06T13:31:00.004-06:00

I know, not really a good title but...or that should be however.

The Colorado Railroad Museum is hosting their Goosefest this weekend for Mother's day. That is a day you can come out to the museum and ride on the famous Galloping Geese of the Rio Grande Southern Railway. There are a number of them active at the museum so there will be lots of waddling and honking going on. Here is a picture of one of my models of Goose #2.

Check out the Colorado Railroad Museum website at www.coloradorailroadmuseum.org or come out to visit at 17155 W. 44th Avenue, Golden, CO 80403For driving directions and a map, click here Google Maps

Local moves across Denver...checklist

2010-05-03T07:51:00.002-06:00

Some of it may seem obvious, but here is a short checklist to help you when the time to move actually comes. http://www.denverrelocation.com/MovingChecklistLocalMoves.html.
Relocations can be just across town too. Denver is not so small that you will still want to go to the same dentist, or doctor and certainly not the same grocery. So it might be a landscaper or plumber you need. That stuff is in DenverRelocation.com too

Pete Doty is a full time licensed Colorado real estate broker since 1985. "I go to work everyday for you & your friends, learning about our home town". Sometimes it is Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Littleton, Castle Rock, Centennial, Englewood, Parker, Elizabeth, Larkspur, Franktown, Kiowa, or anywhere in metro Denver Colorado. Talk to him for real estate advice, properties for sale, multiple listing service, all available at www.DenverRelocation.com. Drop him a note to pete@Denverrelocation.com