In response to the increase in property values, the FHFA has declared an increase in the maximum baseline conforming loan limits for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac-acquired mortgages for home loans in Colorado for the year 2024. Typically, when individuals embark on their journey as first-time home buyers, their initial considerations often revolve around condominiums, […]
Evolution of broker agency and commissions in a real estate transaction, Part 2
Like a listing contyract, where the Seller employs the REALTOR, the Buyer Agency contract creates an agreement where the Buyer employs the REALTOR to represent. In Part 1 of this two-part series, I discussed the history and evolution of seller agencies, buyer agencies and commissions in real estate. The Division of Real Estate in […]
Evolution of broker agency and commissions in a real estate transaction, Part 1
In 1994, Colorado created new working relationships for the public in working with real estate brokers. In the beginning – before 1994, that is! – life was relatively simple for real estate buyers and sellers concerning their relationships with their real estate brokers. There simply was a Seller Agency. Every broker relationship was a Seller […]
Variations of 1031 Real Estate Exchanges
If you own investment real estate and aim to advance your position on the investment ladder, a 1031 Exchange could be an ideal strategy. When people hear the term “1031 Exchange,” they often perceive it as challenging due to the assumption that finding a direct exchange partner might be difficult. However, Section 1031 of the […]
At home at the beach: Ensuring a blissful vacation home purchase experience
Row of beach vacation homes. (Shutterstock). Brrrrrr! When January hits Colorado, thoughts turn to finding warmth! A ten-degree day tends to spark daydreams of basking on the beach. Throughout the years, I’ve guided many clients toward Realtors® in their desired vacation spots. What I’ve noticed is that Coloradans often seek out sunny island or beach […]
September 2023 marks the 10-year anniversary of the 2013 flood
When the sun came out and the flood waters receded, many predicted it would take at least 10 years to recover. Now, at the 10-year mark, it is safe to say they were right. Five years ago, if you drove up Boulder Canyon, a sign proclaimed, “Temporary Road Open, Governor Hickenlooper”. Now, a decade post-flood, […]
Using a vision study to increase the value of your property
The value of real estate is often determined by its potential. When a seller places a property on the market, they often have not done any research as to what the best use of the property might be. Knowing exactly what can be done with a property in the future will often bring added value to […]
If you’re buying or selling a home, consider working with a Certified Residential Specialist (CRS)
To earn a real estate license in Colorado, an applicant must complete a total of 168 hours of coursework covering real estate law and practice, Colorado contracts, trust accounts, legal issues, closings, and practical applications. Colorado has much more stringent educational requirements than other states. Therefore, after agents are licensed and can practice real estate, […]
Buying a Home with a Septic System
Boulder County – Over the years we’ve learned a considerable amount about the impact of septic systems. There is clear evidence that aging, unapproved septic systems have been leaking into our water system. As a result, Boulder County implemented SepticSmart Regulations on September 1, 2008 in order to protect our health and environment. Here are […]
Should I pay my mortgage off before I retire?
Your financial professionals can help you decide if you want your mortgage loan paid off at retirement or if any of these other ideas work for you. (Photo: Pexels). At first thought, it would seem to make sense – why not have your house free and clear and have no house payments in retirement? If […]