What Do You Know About Real Estate Investing?

What Do You Know About Real Estate Investing?

What do you know about real estate investing? Do you think that this is something that you should approach on a casual basis or something that you should treat as a career? Or are you confused about real estate investing and just want to stay put, living from paycheck to paycheck?

If you are like most people, the answer is the third option. You find real estate confusing and although you are not content to 'just get by' on the job that you currently have, you do not have the knowledge or the guts to give real estate investing a try. You will most likely regret this in years to come. Right now is the best time for real estate investing. If you ever thought about buying a property, now is the time to do it.

Foreclosures are at an all time high throughout the country. Mortgage rates, however, are at an all time low. This combination makes it possible for just about anyone to afford to buy into real estate. You just have to know how.

If you are afraid of real estate investing but want to take that step ahead, be sure to treat your real estate investing career as a career and not just a hobby. Take it seriously and pursue it like you would pursue a career. This entails learning everything that you can possibly learn about real estate investing.

The first thing that you need to do is get some real estate investing training from those who have gone before you. Get tutored with real estate investing from professional investors. If you do not know anything about real estate investing, take a deep breath and relax. Find a course where you can study at home, in your spare time, and learn everything that there is to know before you embark on your first real estate investment.

By learning as much as you can before you start your real estate investing business, you will be ahead of those who want to treat real estate investing as a hobby and not as a career. If you dislike living from paycheck to paycheck and want a way out into the lucrative world of real estate investing, you have to take it seriously.

Getting a course that will give you all of the information that you need is better than just learning bits and parts about real estate investing and is much better than learning as you go. When you learn as you go, you are pretty much guaranteed to lose a lot of money in bad investments.

Taking your real estate investing business as a serious step towards a career with a future is the first step in finding financial independence that a successful real estate investing career can bring. Choosing the right real estate investing course is crucial to how you will conduct your real estate business. Just as you would not want to go into any career knowing only a little bit about the subject matter, nor would you want to embark on a real estate investing career without knowing a lot more about real estate and investing.

You can do it! The less you know, the better off you are. If you simply take a course one step at a time and follow the instructions, you will be able to build a successful real estate investment empire.

The Colorado Springs real estate market is the most lucrative real estate market. With more and more people looking for homes for sale in Colorado Springs, it is a good opportunity to kick start you career in real estate. The Colorado Springs real estate has been the most preferred option for home seekers. You may also get some tips from a well established Colorado Springs REALTOR. Or you may even contact Mike Stuard for your Colorado Springs commercial real estate needs.

Commercial Real Estate Purchasing Requires Considering Many Factors

Commercial Real Estate Purchasing Requires Considering Many Factors


Today's world economy is changing. More and more people are turning to the internet for their goods and services. As our ability to transport goods across international borders increases exponentially, the world is truly becoming as small as a tiny computer monitor screen. Faced with the prospect of competing with online vendors, what can today's business do to offer a clear and attractive alternative? The key is, and always will be, the customer experience.

As the old adage goes-real estate is all about location, location, and location. That is no longer true than when you are shopping for commercial real estate. Firstly, the location must serve your basic business needs. Does the location offer you all of the space your business may need for today, and can it expand to meet tomorrow's needs? Is the location safe for your workers, and is the area an attractive destination to potential customers?

Perhaps most importantly, your business must be accessible to these customers. The closer your business is to the customers that you seek, the more readily you can compete with online businesses. Nothing beats the experience of being able to take a short walk to a store and see, feel, and test the goods and services you might need.

A well thought out and researched piece of commercial property is more than a tract of land and a solid piece of construction. It can serve as a piece of advertising as well. The location of your commercial real estate can be in an area with a high level of traffic. With a sign on the building, you can essentially create a free, ongoing billboard advertising your business. Since your business model may depend on local business, this kind of free advertising can be invaluable as time goes by.

You may also look for commercial real estate in areas with little driving traffic but a high level of foot traffic. Areas with high foot traffic are great for retailers looking to attract new customers who may be out for a day of window shopping.

Likewise, buying property next to existing businesses with similar customers may be a great way to work with your neighbors to create a one stop shopping experience. Today's customer who notices your sign can be the start of tomorrow's word of mouth.

Aside from the location, the actual structure is the most important aspect of a commercial real estate purchase. Aside from space considerations, you must consider what elements are available to you within the property.

If your business is dependent on a high level of internet activity, you should seek out property with stable, high speed internet available to each of the spaces. If your business is retail oriented, you will need large floor plans, preferably with a certain level of window space available for passing shoppers. Restaurants, bars and certain service oriented businesses will need kitchens, bars, or special pluming needs.

While today's economy is victim to many up and downs, particularly in the real estate market, those in the market for a commercial space may be able to find a bargain. This is especially true if you are able to find a 'fixer-upper' property that can be retrofitted for today's business needs. As real estate prices once more rise, these commercial properties could become a source of new revenue for the future.

No matter what kind of space you may need for your business, trained and helpful real estate agents will be able to aid you in your search for a new commercial real estate property.

Colorado Springs offers a wide range of residential and commercial real estate properties. The Colorado Springs real estate market has witnessed some activities with more and more people coming and looking for homes for sale in Colorado Springs.  A well established Colorado Springs REALTOR can be of great help for people willing to buy the Colorado Springs real estate.

And of course if you have any questions about Colorado Springs commercial real estate, please contact Mike Stuard.

 

 

Why Colorado Real Estate?

Why Colorado Real Estate?

Colorado is a state of the U.S.A., which is located within the region of the Rocky Mountain. The population of the state for the year 2006 was 4,753,377.The capital of Colorado is Denver, which is also the most populated city of the state. Its official nickname is "The Centennial State", and its citizens are called as Coloradans.

The Geography of Colorado

From the eastern part to the western part of the state, the geography of Colorado is made up of basins, plateaus, snow capped mountains and grasslands. The Grand Mesa is known as the largest mountains with flat peaks all over the entire world. The eastern part of the state has various ski resorts which are flocked by tourists each winter season. This part of Colorado is a perfect place for setting up an investment, so don't waste a moment and invest on a Colorado real estate.

The Weather of the State

The weather of the state is considered as the best when compared to the other states of the country. The climate of Colorado is defined as dry and cool. On the other hand, the variations of its weather depend on the location and elevation of its areas, and the circulation of air mass around the state. The valleys and the mountain ranges are the other factors which greatly influence the climate. The elevated areas of the state have low temperatures and high precipitation.

The State's Economy

During the middle of 19th century, the economy of the state expanded due to the development of irrigated agriculture. The later part of the century has seen an importance on livestock. The state's earliest industries have been based on minerals which are extracted and processed, and on agricultural products. Currently, its products include wheat, cattle, dairy products, hay and, corn. A lot of federal facilities and government agencies are also located within Colorado. Denver is among the cities of the state which has a booming economy. If you want to invest in a commercial business, opt for a Colorado real estate.

Colorado's Education

Like any other states of the country, Colorado has a lot of universities and state colleges. The state has a university system, which are located in areas like; Boulder, Denver and, Colorado Springs. Colorado also has a university center for health sciences. Apart from these schools, there are a lot of other schools across the state. Colorado is also home to the country's Air Force Academy. This means that the defenders of the country are honed within the state. With a lot of students looking for a place to stay, rental places are running out of space. You can make an investment on a Colorado real estate by turning it into a rental apartment for students. When you engage in this kind of business, you are assured that you will not lose profit.

Make an Investment in Colorado

To make sure that you are earning from your investment on a Colorado real estate, conduct your business within the metropolitan areas of the state. This is a fact that most of the population of a state reside within these areas because of easy access to jobs, transportation and, great neighborhoods. When you invest on a Colorado real estate, make sure that you research on the market of the neighborhood first.

The Colorado Springs real estate is one such that you would be interested in. With some well known universities in Colorado Springs, the Colorado Springs real estate is witnessing some great students activities. Many families come looking for homes for sale in Colorado Springs considering the education of their children. A reputed Colorado Springs REALTOR can be of great help for such families, and if you have any questions about Colorado Springs commercial real estate you may always contact Mike Stuard.

20 Things Realtors Do To Their Own Homes Before Selling

20 Things Realtors Do To Their Own Homes Before Selling

Real Estate Agents know how to sell their own homes and get top dollar. Selling homes is what they do. They package, market and sell homes for a living and they know what home buyers want. Here is a list of exactly what real estate agents do when preparing their own home for sale.

The Exterior

Real estate agents understand how important “Curb Appeal” is. It is the home buyer’s first impression of the home. Shouldn’t it be a good one? When beautifying the exterior of the home, focus on the landscaping, driveway, entrance way and front door.

• All clutter is removed from the front yard.


• Cracks in the driveway and walkway are fixed.


• The front lawn and shrubs are manicured. Gardens are mulched.


• The exterior of the home is painted if needed.


• The front door is painted or replaced if needed.


• Chipped or fraying paint on door and window frames is removed, and fresh paint is added.


• Gutters and downspouts are cleared and in good working order.

 

The Interior

• Pet odors are eliminated!


• Soft jazz or classical music is playing on the stereo when buyers come through.


• Furniture is removed and either put in the basement or into storage. This makes the home appear much larger. You never want to make it difficult to walk through all the rooms in the house, so clear the pathways!


• Electrical and plumbing are in working order.


• Broken appliances are fixed.


• The garage door works perfectly.


• A fresh scent is always used to appeal to buyer’s senses. Vanilla is one of the most frequently used scents in builder’s model homes. You can buy vanilla air fresheners that fit directly on your air filter.


• Curtains are always opened, windows shades always up and lights always on (including lamps, hallway lights, etc) when the home is being shown (even during the day). The combination of sunlight and artificial light helps make the home appear larger and open.


• All clutter is removed.


• All clothes are placed in the drawers or neatly in closets.


• Carpets are clean and in good condition. Otherwise, get rid of them.


• The windows are thoroughly cleaned. Buyers like to look outside the windows. The windows and screen doors easily open and close and are in good shape.


• The kitchen is thoroughly cleaned. The cabinets, counters and appliances are thoroughly spotless. All clutter is removed. Dishes and glasses are neatly stacked in the cupboards. There are never any dirty dishes in the sink or on the counter.


• The closets are reorganized so they appear larger. Some clothes are removed if necessary.


• Walls are clean and there are no smudge marks. If the paint is dingy, the walls must be painted. Light colors are used to make the house appear larger.

Never do more work than necessary.

Often sellers think that the more they fixup, the higher the price they will get. When you go beyond the necessary fixups, you get to the point where you are wasting your money. Do all the necessary fixups prior to selling, but never do what is unnecessary.

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Now that you are ready, you may want to see some options that the Colorado Springs real estate has to offer. The Colorado Springs real estate market has seen some brilliant activity in the recent times. A reputed Colorado Springs REALTOR can be of great help for those looking for homes for sale in Colorado Springs.

If you have any questions about Colorado Springs commercial real estate please contact Mike Stuard.

 

How Can I Increase My Property Value in the Colorado Real Estate Market?

How Can I Increase My Property Value in the Colorado Real Estate Market?

Increasing your property value in the Colorado real estate market can be a daunting task. With property values stabilizing or declining in certain markets around Colorado, it is becoming more challenging for homeowners to recognize a return-on-investment with their home improvements.

According to Remodeling Magazine’s 2006 “Cost vs. Value “ report, the cost for most remodeling projects in 2006 increased while the return on investment decreased. Apparently, a mid-range kitchen remodel with an average cost of $54,000 only returned 80.4% versus a 91% return on $43,862 in 2005.

How can a homeowner increase their property value? From our experience consulting homeowners and investors, we strongly advise them to research the property improvements of other houses in the neighborhood. Know what improvements and the quality of the improvements neighbors are making to their homes. For example, if you are installing two inch slab granite countertops and everyone else has Formica laminate countertops, chances are that you will not realize a return on your investment.

Typically, you will want to focus on areas that are most important to buyers – foyer flooring, the kitchen, bathrooms, two-tone interior paint and cleaning exterior finishes and landscaping. It is best to avoid renovations to master suites, sun rooms and even office additions.

The most important factor to consider before starting a home improvement project is to analyze your local real estate market within your neighborhood in Colorado. Some neighborhoods around the Colorado real estate market are experiencing a significant return-on-investment with home improvement projects, whereas other home improvement projects are seen as an over-improvement for the community.

As always, identify and work with a Colorado real estate agent that has experience in the real estate investment market and skilled in determining what home improvement projects yield the highest return-on-investment for your local market.

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The Colorado Springs real estate market is witnessing some good activity. More and more people looking for homes for sale in Colorado Springs, and the Colorado Springs real estate has some fantastic properties to offer. One can get expert help from a well known Colorado Springs REALTOR to help you find your dream home. Alternatively, if you are looking for Colorado Springs commercial real estate, then please contact Mike Stuard.

Home Flipping in Colorado

Home Flipping in Colorado

With "home flipping mania" sweeping the country, everyone wants to get in on the game and make some money. The unfortunate reality of market, however; is the simple fact that the country's markets are cooling off and a real "buyer's market" is emerging. This is true of many areas across the country but there are a few places where the real estate market was not really subject to the fluctuations of the market over the past years and indeed, the market has seen only steady improvement. Colorado Springs real estate market is a great example of this. For many years while the country's major markets saw a huge jump in value and popularity, Colorado Springs real estate's market showed a small and steady increase over many years. This slower growth gave the Colorado market a more stable base and allowed the communities to grow along with the market values.

It is unfair to say that the national market has entered a slump, but what is true is that home values have decreased somewhat and there are far fewer buyers looking for homes for sale in Colorado Springs than there were in the past years. Home sellers are having to compete more and more to get the good qualified buyers and as such those good qualified buyers are able to be more choosy with the help of some reputed Colorado Springs REALTOR. In spite of this market, Colorado has remained a great place to flip homes. The steady increase and the desirable areas such as Breckenridge that offer year-round activity have brought a great amount of value to the market and created a great environment for home flipping.

Flipping a home is all about finding the right market for the home you want to flip and in Breckenridge the market to go after is the vacation home market. The vacation home market is one that has also seen considerable growth in Colorado. As this state is home to the best skiing in the U.S.A. it is highly desirable to a certain type of home buyer. Marketing a newly renovated home in ski country can be an exciting thing to do as these kind of homes usually feature excellent access to the mountain, amazing scenery and great home value.

If you have any questions about Colorado Springs commercial real estate please contact Mike Stuard.



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The Lure of Colorado

The Lure of Colorado

For many years the state of Colorado has been known as a rugged and exciting place to visit at any time of the year. During winter it hosts the best skiing and snowboarding in the country with world-class resorts such as Vail, Breckenridge, and Aspen that draw visitors from all over the globe. During the summer the state becomes a destination resort for those with active outdoor lifestyles by playing host to a wild array of sports such as mountain biking, kayaking, golf, mountain climbing, and too many others to name in one article. Colorado is a fantastic place to be, and it had evolved into an even better place in which to live. With the rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountains forming the backdrop, Colorado has breathtaking scenery, excellent recreation and homes that are worth moving across the country for. These are also some of the reasons why Colorado Springs real estate market is one of the sought after by people looking for homes for sale in Colorado Springs.

To find out what kind of living standard is definitive of Colorado perhaps we should mention that Fort Collins was ranked as #1 Best Place To Live by Money Magazine. Fort Collins beat out such towns as Naperville, IL, and Sugar Land, TX, to take the number 1 ranking. The major considerations for this accolade were the abundance of good jobs in a fast-paces and high-tech economy, low crime rate and great recreational options. There was also another top 30 finisher for Colorado with Westminister coming in at #24. With such benefits, its no surprise that Colorado Springs real estate is a preferred options for home seekers.

With 2 top 30 finishers in the Best Places To Live, Colorado has some amazing homes and properties that support such an austere designation. Colorado's economy is the other major factor in the advancement of this state as a premier residential location. In recent years Colorado has moved from its historical agrarian based economy to one of high-technology and scientific research. Tourism also plays a heavy role in the proliferation of Colorado. Thousands upon thousands of people flock to Colorado on a yearly basis top enjoy the rugged landscape and the fantastic sporting options that it provides. It's safe to say that there is something for everyone in Colorado, all it takes is a quick visit to fall in love with the lifestyle and beauty of the state. With the help of some reputed Colorado Springs REALTOR it's easy to find ones dream home in Colorado Springs. If its business that brings you to Colorado Springs and if you have any questions about Colorado Springs commercial real estate please contact Mike Stuard.



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Colorado Mountain Land for Sale

Colorado Mountain Land for Sale

Colorado mountain real estate is proving to be one of the few investments set to weather the current economic turmoil in good shape. Combine future predicted growth patterns, and a limited resource, and Colorado mountain land for sale becomes an attractive investment prospect.

Some population projections see the population of Colorado set to nearly double in the next fifty years. Next factor in the desirability of the location and landscape, and the limited amount of available Colorado mountain real estate, and the potential becomes clearer. For example, here in Chaffee County, only twenty percent of land is in private ownership. This is by no means unique – the percentage is even less in other mountain areas, where large tracts are set aside as public land. Land values for Colorado mountain real estate have been increasing steadily as a result, as more and more buyers realize the laws of supply and demand are in effect.

All this public land can create a false impression to the casual observer however. Colorado mountain land for sale is not as plentiful as one might think particularly larger tracts of forty plus acres. Traditionally it is the valley floors that are privately owned, so if your dream is to own Colorado mountain real estate the search for that perfect tree covered retreat in the mountains can take longer than expected.

Chaffee County in Colorado is one of the few places left in the mountain west where realistically priced Colorado mountain real estate is available. Easy, year round access, quality health care, mild mountain climate and unrivaled year round recreational opportunities abound. The catch up potential for investors is considerable when compared to other neighboring mountain areas. So, when looking for Colorado mountain land for sale, take a closer look at Chaffee County, Colorado.

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You may also want to look at some Colorado Springs real estate. Despite the current economic conditions, the Colorado Springs real estate has see some briliant activity. With more and more people looking for homes for sale in Colorado Springs it's only a matter of finding a reputed Colorado Springs REALTOR to help you find your dream house. And if you have any questions about Colorado Springs commercial real estate please contact Mike Stuard.


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Finding the Perfect Colorado Home

Finding the Perfect Colorado Home

Few places in the nation are able to offer the stunning scenery and recreational options that are provided by Colorado. This state has long been known for its amazing sporting and recreational areas, especially the ones that come alive during the winter months. Colorado is a haven for lovers of snow sports and area such as Aspen, Breckenridge and Vail have gained notoriety around the world as top-class resorts and destinations. But Colorado is much deeper than a few ski resorts, this state is a fantastic place to live and work. With a thriving economy and excellent employment opportunities, and Colorado Springs real estate is gaining popularity as one of the premier spots to live in the nation.

There are quite a few elements that have contributed to Colorado's appeal, primarily is the excellent economy that is supported by a well educated work force. Colorado public schools are highly rated and feed into a post-secondary system that includes such notable schools as The University of Colorado, Colorado State and the United States Air Force Academy. The highly educated nature of this area has served to create a economic base that is both stable and looking to the future. Colorado is known for its tourism industry but this state is also a power in the manufacturing industry and many of the nation's top defense and aeronautics producers are headquartered here such as Lockheed-Martin.

There is a fantastic selection of homes for sale in Colorado Springs. The economic development of Colorado has helped to foster a boom in the housing industry, thereby creating a great atmosphere for home purchases. Whether you are looking for a home, condo, townhome or investment property, there will be little trouble in finding what you want in Colorado with the help of a reputed Colorado Springs REALTOR. If you are seeking a quiet and serene place to live where you have a variety of lifestyle options from active to more relaxed then Colorado Springs real estate is what you should seriously consider.

While if you have any questions about Colorado Springs commercial real estate please contact Mike Stuard.

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Things to Consider for your Colorado Home Loan Quote

Things to Consider for your Colorado Home Loan Quote

If you are planning to purchase a Colorado Springs real estate property, shopping for a Colorado home loan quote isn't much different than looking for mortgages elsewhere in the U.S.; however, the Colorado Springs real estate market does present some unique needs. Buyers that work with and in-state Colorado home mortgage company will have an added advantage
Shopping for a Colorado Home Loan Quote

Buyers looking for the best Colorado home loan quote should begin with the basics.

First, gather the information needed to obtain an accurate quote from a professional. Providing as many specifics as possible will give you the most reliable Colorado home loan quote. Providing information about income, debt, and purchase price or refinance amounts will be helpful. Be prepared with a list of goals and questions when you are ready to purchase a homes for sale in Colorado Springs.

To find reputable Colorado home mortgage lenders, search local ads and online. Make a list of prospective lenders, and then call for an initial consultation. You could even seek help from your Colorado Springs REALTOR to identify some reputed lenders. It will likely take a day or two for them to thoroughly go over your information and provide your Colorado home loan quote.

When you shop for a Colorado home loan quote, you will be provided with a variety of terms and options. Your lender will help to decipher these options and fit them to your personal situation and goals to get you not only the best Colorado home loan quote, but also the most affordable Colorado home mortgage payment for you.

The following options represent what you may be presented with:

Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM) – For the first 3-5 years, the ARM works similar to a Colorado fixed rate loan in that the payments will stay the same at a locked interest rate for a specified period. After that initial 3-5 years, your rate will adjust with market rates based on an index. An ARM works well for buyers that want lower payments in the short term and should be considered if you plan to refinance or sell the property in the near future..

Colorado fixed rate loan – The rate you lock in the beginning of a Colorado fixed rate loan is the rate you have for the life of the Colorado fixed rate loan. The Colorado home loan quote you get on a Colorado fixed rate loan will be higher than an ARM Colorado home loan quote, but it's predictable and will never change. A Colorado fixed rate loan is good if you plan to own your property for a long time. With a Colorado fixed rate loan, you won't have to stress over interest rate increases.

Colorado jumbo mortgages – Colorado jumbo mortgages are those taken for any amount over $417,000. The Colorado home loan quote for Colorado jumbo mortgages will be slightly higher because of increased risk factors for lenders, but this shouldn't dissuade you from products for Colorado jumbo mortgages. Very simply, many of the best Colorado home mortgages fall into the 'jumbo' category, and there is no other way to obtain such a property.

Like a standard Colorado home mortgage, Colorado jumbo mortgages come with options like variable ARMs and Colorado fixed rate loan 15-30 year terms. Shop for jumbo loans as you would a conforming loan. The same basic rules apply - short term ARMs have better rates than a Colorado fixed rate loan, but in the long term, the Colorado fixed rate loan is better.

Whether you're shopping for an ARM or Colorado fixed rate loan with 30 year jumbo mortgage rates, the key is to find a reputable Colorado mortgage company you can trust to deliver the Colorado home loan quote as quoted. Particularly if you are locking into a 30 year Colorado fixed rate loan, you want good rates and reasonable fees. Several Colorado mortgage brokers have experience with 15 and 30 year jumbo mortgage and finding one will be well worth your effort.

If you are looking for Colorado Springs commercial real estate please contact Mike Stuard.

Seven New Home Incentives To Look For

Seven New Home Incentives To Look For

Buying a new home isn't as easy as it once was given the state of the economy but there are still excellent deals to be had if you are financially ready to buy a new home. New home builders use a number of incentives to entice you to purchase a home in their community including some significant discounts for select workforces. Read on to see seven great ways to get an amazing deal on a new construction home.

Included "Bonuses" in Price - For many city dwellers it can be a daunting thought of moving to the suburbs. One of the biggest concerns is commuting to and from work in the nearest major city. Some builders are now offering a free vehicle lease for as long as 24 months to help you ease into suburban life with a new set of wheels. Other bonuses include free home theater systems, LCD tvs and more.

Slashed Pricing on Move In Ready Homes - Depending on your moving situation, this is the golden egg of builder incentives. New home builders build "spec" homes, also known as move in ready homes, to cater to home buyers who are looking for a home to move into right away. If you are able to move right away you can get a great deal on move in ready homes. Once these homes are finished the builder won't want to sit on a large inventory of homes so they will offer spec homes with predetermined upgrades included at a lower asking price than if you were to build the home from scratch and add those upgrades.

Armed Forces or Civil Workforce Discount - Many home builders, especially larger builders, offer discounted home pricing to people who serve in the military or buyers who work in civil service fields like medical, police, fire and government.

Builder Financing Incentives - National home builders tend to have their own private financing company that they prefer to do business with as it streamlines their work flow and makes the home sale easier for the builder. To help you decide to use their preferred lender builders offer appliance packages, upgraded flooring and other incentives for using their lender.

Upgraded Included in the Price of the Home - Builders have a standard features list that they use to build all of their base models but now builders are including popular upgrades like granite countertops in the asking price of their homes.

Less Expensive Options - The average home buyer spends about 10% of their total home sale price on upgrades for their new home. To encourage the purchase of more upgrades builders have lowered the cost on many of their upgrade packages. For example, you may find hardwood flooring in the kitchen costs significantly less than it did a few years ago. There are also more options per upgrade category to choose from.

Reduced Lot Premiums - Builders know home buyers will pay a premium for their most desirable lots whether its because they have an ocean or mountain view, private tree-lined backyard or more level terrain. To sell more homes numerous home builders have reduced the premiums on the most desirable locations in a community.

The Colorado Springs real estate is a booming real estate market which offers a variety of options. So if you are looking for the perfect homes for sale in Colorado Springs, be sure to consult a reputed Colorado Springs REALTOR for various incentives options available. Not only will this agent be able to give you the pros and cons of communities in your area but they will also help you dissect each opportunity and find the best incentives to help you save the most money on your new home purchase. It is the right time to invest in a Colorado Springs real estate so make the best of it!

Alternatively, if you are looking for Colorado Springs commercial real estate, please contact Mike Stuard for some of the best options available in Colorado Springs.

Colorado Mountain Property

Colorado Mountain Property

For decades, Colorado (along with the rest of the American West) has been a go-to spot for audacious American vacationers looking for something different. Colorado is well loved for its spectacular landscapes and laid-back lifestyle. Consequentially, vacationers often talk about how fabulous it would be to live in Colorado – to live, essentially, in perpetual vacation mode.



If you are looking for homes for sale in Colorado Springs and with the available Colorado Mountain Property and also the Colorado Springs real estate properties, it is possible to find the home of your dreams in the great western landscape of Colorado. If you love vacationing in the mountains, why not make the state a formal residence? The Colorado Springs real estate and the Colorado Mountain Properties offer a wide range of options for buyers of all stripes looking for an incredible place to spend a few months out of the year – or even an entire lifetime. A reputed Colorado Springs REALTOR should help you find that dream home you are looking for.



Mountain Property Colorado offers a wide range of choices for buyers with a wide range of needs. Looking for a piece of open land where you can build a new home, keep horses, and let your children run free? There are plenty of possibilities for large acreages where you can feel the space and big skies that characterize the American West. Or, if wide open spaces aren't your style (but incredible mountain views are), consider a fabulous condo nestled in Rocky Mountains. Colorado Mountain Properties include incredible options for those looking for a lifestyle that is relatively maintenance-free. Properties are available that provide top-notch amenities in a spectacular atmosphere – meaning the mountain lifestyle is available to buyers from all walks of life.



In short, Colorado Mountain Property offers something for everyone. Colorado offers a wealth of natural beauty that is unrivaled elsewhere in the nation: from gorgeous mountain peaks to pristine valleys and from rushing rivers to wide open spaces, Colorado is an incredible place to put down roots. Owning property in Colorado means that you have the freedom to live the lifestyle you want when you want – be it just a few months out of the year or year-round. The mountains of Colorado offer something for everyone – so find the right property for you today.



And if its the Colorado Springs commercial real estate that you are looking for, then please contact Mike Stuard.

Selling Your Colorado Springs House Quick Even Without A Realtor

Selling Your Colorado Springs House Quick Even Without A Realtor



We know for a fact that real estate investing is one of the biggest if not the most challenging investments you can ever make. On the other hand selling your house is one of the most difficult decisions you will ever make as there are a lot of things to be considered. These includes the pricing, the methods on how to sell fast, the right people to deal with, finding motivated buyers, finding a trusted real estate agent and a lot more. It is especially crucial with the latter factor in cases where you as a motivated seller is much eager to sell your house fast. But do you know that you can still quickly sell your house even without having to look for a realtor to assist you? And how is it possible when you are selling your Colorado Springs house?



Knowing the fundamentals in selling houses quickly will aid you in finding all the significant information you need so that you will successfully sell your Colorado house. For instance, you'll need to recognize and learn all but the market price of houses you may own in the area in this case Colorado Springs areas to be specific. You'd have to look into the Colorado Springs real estate market and study the trend. If you want to do it profitably, take note that it would require a significant amount of time and effort on your part so that if you prefer not to ask some assistance from a realtor, you will still be able to do the deal without any hassles and seel your Colorado Springs real estate. Since there are a number of people looking for homes for sale in Colorado Springs, some of the tasks entails between addressing prospect queries, viewings, follow-ups, and marketing, you must anticipate and be prepared to put more or less twenty to forty or more hours weekly and likely even a lot more. This is quite true especially if you are still starting as you set up your marketing campaign in addition to your sales tools.



One of the advantages in selling your house without the help of a real estate agent is that you can save a quite amount of money in realtor commissions. If you decide to do so make sure that you can handle all the dealings on your own and you will not end up in the losing end. Although this idea is not an easy one, it is becoming a popular resort in the current housing market and an available resort among sellers. Without a knowledgeable and honest Colorado Springs REALTOR to direct you through the whole process, you will have to hone your know how on the housing market in your area, the lending practices, the loan availability as well as the prerequisites for a house sale. You will also need to polish your negotiation and people skills and most of all pull in time in your schedule for you to be available to show your house for sale to the prospective buyers.


If you have any questions regarding the Colorado Springs commercial real estate please contact Mike Stuard.

The Colorado Home Market

The Colorado Home Market

Wow. It's amazing when looking online how worried people are about the state of affairs in the real estate business. It would seem that the market slow down is affecting more people than expected. However, this is not true of Colorado Springs real estate market. The state of Colorado was not really subject to the massive booms that were happening in other areas around the country and as such this slow down has not really affected Colorado either. In fact the Colorado Springs real estate is still on a slow but steady growth curve. This is a pattern of growth that has been on the move for quite a few years and has endured the peaks and valleys of the national market with little in the way of scars to show for it. Of course, all markets are prone to some fluctuation but home values in Colorado have been fairly stable and have shown a more usual rate of appreciation than homes in other areas. Thanks to the people who come looking for homes for sale in Colorado Springs and get what they are looking with a little help from the Colorado Springs REALTOR.

In reality all this talk of "the bottom falling out of the market" is more of a correction of prices that had been radically inflated in the first place. Home owners and buyers in Colorado know that Colorado has a growth market, just things go at a bit more of a leisurely pace here. Colorado has always been a place where things are a bit more laid back. There are definitely some specialty markets in Colorado that have benefited from the steady growth that this state has enjoyed. Markets such as Breckenridge have seen some great development but not so much as to strip the town of the charm and atmosphere that made it a popular destination in the first place. Breckenridge has really evolved from a quiet winter skiing town into a dynamic town that has a real attraction on a year-round basis. As exciting as this area is during the winter months, Breckenridge really comes alive during the spring and summer. The mountain is covered with wildflowers and there is certainly no shortage of exciting things to do and see. Anyone who has spent any time at all in Breckenridge can speak to the majestic beauty of this area. This is definitely an area where homes and properties will continue to appreciate at a respectable rate for many years to come.

The commercial real estate market isn't far behind. If you have any questions about Colorado Springs commercial real estate please contact Mike Stuard.

Real Estate, Supply and Demand

Real Estate, Supply and Demand

Real estate is really a game of supply and demand. The trick is finding the demand and being in the position to supply. This is the kind of situation investors and builders run up against all the time. It is a matter of assessing the market and trying to find the perfect area at the perfect time. One of those variables are known then action can be taken, investments can be made and profits can be collected. So the question remains, where is a good area for this kind of action? Colorado Springs comes to mind. Over the past number of years Colorado Springs real estate market has been one of the hottest real estate markets in the country and this trend shows no signs of slowing down. There are a number of reasons that Colorado Springs real estate can make this boast and it would seem that there are going to be a few more boasts made over the coming months.



People love to go to Colorado Springs, it is one of the most traveled to destinations in the country and it's not hard to see why. Fantastic weather, scenery, recreation and many other attributes can be claimed by this state. Real estate has been in high demand in this state for many years. This is partially due to Colorado's popularity as a tourist destination. In fact tourism is one the strongest aspects of Colorado's economy pouring millions of dollars per year into this state.



Colorado is a state that is ideal for any recreational pursuit. Colorado is also known for some of the most amazing scenery in the world.



Colorado Springs has always been known as a great place to visit. However, with the abundance of education, the excellent economy and a great and stable real estate industry. Hopefully this has explained why there is such a demand for quality homes for sale in Colorado Springs and properties in Colorado Springs. Supply and demand does not work unless there is interest from both sides and Colorado Springs is a perfect example of a balanced area where supply meets demand. One can seek help of a reputed Colorado Springs REALTOR to strike this balance. Also if you have any questions about Colorado Springs commercial real estate you may please contact Mike Stuard.

Colorado Real Estate - The Top Cities

Colorado Real Estate - The Top Cities

Lying at the foothills of the mighty Rocky Mountains, the state of Colorado with an average elevation of 6,800 feet is the state with the highest elevation in the United States. Its capital and largest city, Denver, is nicknamed "The Mile-High City" because its official elevation, measured on the fifteenth step of the state capitol building's west side, is one statute mile (5,280 feet or 1,609 meters) above sea level. Colorado Springs is the second largest city in Colorado, while Boulder and Fort Collins are two other hot spots. Colorado Springs real estate offers great options when it come to finding your dream house in these fantastic cities.


The entire state offers landscapes of striking beauty with mountains and plateaus and is rich in gold, silver, and other minerals. Once primarily a mining and agricultural state, Colorado's economy is even now driven by mining and energy industries, telecommunications, defense and other service industries. It is also a large employer of federal workers with many federal government offices located in Denver.


From a real estate point of view all four cities have been witnessing a developmental boom for several years now. While Denver has witnessed an explosion of development downtown in recent years with the Downtown Denver Partnership estimating that 13,760 residential units have been built in the city's center since 1990, there is still a strong demand for high-priced properties in the area with a spate of new projects coming up. If you have any questions about Colorado Springs commercial real estate please contact Mike Stuard.


Colorado Springs on the other hand is going through a phase of urban renewal. The city has set up a Colorado Springs Urban Renewal Authority which has designated four areas as urban renewal sites since 2001: downtown's southwest side; the City Auditorium block in the heart of downtown; the North Nevada Avenue corridor in the center of the city; and the Gold Hill Mesa property on the Springs' west side. As a result there is now a development boom going on in the area and many new residential properties are coming up in a planned manner with good architecture and amenities.


In Boulder a change in demographics has triggered a similar real estate boom. Boulder County's median family income has doubled over the past 13 years from $47,800 in 1992 to over $90,000 now. Similarly real estate values have also more than doubled during the same period - medians from around $122,000 in 1990 to over $300,000 now. The median rent has also shot up from $480 in 1990 to over $900 now. Boulder, therefore, is today a very hot real estate market. A well established Colorado Springs REALTOR will be of great help if you are looking for homes for sale in Colorado Springs and Boulder County.


In Fort Collins the emphasis is on second-home and resort ventures. Demographically, Fort Collins is presently witnessing an increase in health worker and medical worker populations with many new health offices, medical centers and hospitals are coming up in the area. These workers, however, do not have very high median incomes, so homes in the lower end of the market will find more takers than up-market, high value properties. So, from an investment point of view, Fort Collins is ideal for investment in second homes, resort ventures and homes for the middle class.


Colorado as a whole is on the upswing. In 2004, the state had the 10th highest job growth in the country, with a healthy chunk of that coming in the professional and business services sector. The bottom line is that Colorado has many job opportunities and is a pleasant place to live. You may want to see the different options that Colorado Springs real estate offers, which has led to an increasing number of people calling it home.

Moving to Colorado Springs? it Helps to Know the History

Moving to Colorado Springs? it Helps to Know the History

It helps to know a city's history. If you are planning to relocate, this information will help you feel more secure in your new surroundings. It will also endear you to the locals, who are usually proud and knowledgeable of their city's origins.

This is true in Colorado Springs, a place defined as much by its storied history as its developing present.

Colorado Springs was founded by General William Palmer in 1871. Palmer dreamed of creating a Midwestern resort, replete with entertainment, lodging, religious values and a temperate climate.

General William Palmer was an early American pioneer. He specialized in industry and philanthropy. He was an American soldier. And he contributed to the development of the Union Pacific Railroad. Today there is a bronze statue of Palmer in Colorado Springs. The statue depicts Palmer on a horse. The horse's front legs are planted on the ground, which symbolizes that Palmer was not killed in an accident or in combat.

Palmer was a religious man. Colorado Spring's early existence focused on religious values and hard work. But it attracted wealthy national and international travelers. Colorado Springs had a dry, temperate climate, attractive rivers, and plenty of natural beauty. Palmer built a resort for travelers. Over the years, the resort became one of the most popular American tourist destinations.

The late 1800's attracted many people to Colorado Springs. Rumors that gold was plentiful in the area stoked interest. People came to search for gold. Oftentimes they stayed. This had a twofold effect on the city. The population grew, as did tourism. When rumors of gold proved true, more people arrived, beginning Colorado Spring's long history of attracting prospectors and adventurers. Cripple Creek is located nearby. This area was once the most gold-rich mining area in the country.

Beyond its reputation as a place to strike it rich, Colorado Springs gained notoriety for its health-inducing climate. Many people took leave there, resting among its mountain climate, breathing the high-altitude air.

Around WWII, the city experienced a military boom. Camp Carson, its first military base, developed shortly after Pearl Harbor. The Army used Colorado Springs Municipal Airport for its planes, and to train troops for the war. The Ent Air Force Base is located here, as is the military's Air Force Academy. The military is still a vital aspect of the Colorado Springs' economy. High-tech companies help drive population growth and the economy. Tourism also contributes to the city's consistent prosperity.

If you are considering a move to Colorado Springs, now is a good time. The Colorado Springs real estate market offers you various options if you are searching for homes for sale in Colorado Springs. A reputed Colorado Springs REALTOR will help you find the best Colorado Springs real estate that suits your specific needs based on locations, proximity to the schools and colleges, etc.

Also if you are looking for some great Colorado Springs commercial real estate, then please contact Mike Stuard.

The city's numerous job opportunities, temperate climate, and thriving economy make it one of the best big cities in the United State.

Selling a Home in the Winter

Selling a Home in the Winter

When it comes to selling, the winter season is often not an ideal time to put your house on the market. If you live in an area where it gets cold, rainy, or snowy, trying to sell a home in winter presents a different set of challenges than in spring or summer. It gets darker earlier, the weather is treacherous, lawns are brown or snow covered, and then of course there are the holidays. But not everyone can wait until the warmer seasons to put their home on the market. There are steps you can take to enhance your home’s allure and make it more appealing to potential buyers, even during the winter.



The first thing you can do is to make sure there is a clear a path to your home. If home buyers can't get to it easily, the house is less likely to sell. Keep walkways and driveways free of snow and ice. If there is street parking, make sure a path from the street to your sidewalk has been cleared. Sprinkle a layer of sand or salt on the walking path to prevent buyer’s from slipping and falling.



Next, make sure to light up your yard. Having a cleared path is of little help if buyers can’t see where they are going. Additionally, having a well-lit driveway and front porch will make your home look more inviting in the darkness of winter.



Now that yours home’s exterior is well lit, its time to brighten its interior. If visitors are coming during the day, clean your windows thoroughly, then open the blinds and push back the drapes to let in as much natural light as possible. If potential home buyers are coming after dark, turn on every light in the house. Brighten dark rooms with additional lighting if needed. The illumination will make your home more cheerful and attractive.



When preparing your home before potential buyers arrive, turn the thermostat up a little bit. If you have one, light your fireplace, but only if it will not be unattended for very long. Having the home heated a degree or two warmer than usual will make it feel inviting and cozy on those cold winter days.



Turn off the television and turn on some soft music. Jazz or classical can be quite soothing and will add to the ambiance of the home. Don't turn on a local radio station, as the commercial interruptions can be loud and annoying. Use a CD or MP3 player to cycle through music and turn it down low so that you just hear it in the background.



As with any other time of the year, you will want to make your home as visually pleasing as possible. Clean the home from top to bottom, starting with ceiling fans and light fixtures and ending with the floors. Clean up dirt, dust, and cobwebs, in addition to making small repairs like re-caulking sinks and replacing cabinet handles. Don’t forget to do the dishes and take out the trash before your guests arrive!



Once it’s clean, set the scene by making your home look comfortable and cozy. In this case, it’s the small things that count, like putting a soft throw on the sofa, folding back comforters on the beds, or hanging plush hand-towels in the bathroom. Set the dining room table as if a meal were about to be served, with nice plates and silverware. Even if the holidays have passed, some festive decorations like wreaths and dried arrangements look attractive all winter long.



Look and sound covered, scent is important, too. Without windows letting in fresh summer air, homes can begin to smell a little stale in the winter, especially if you smoke or have pets. Infuse your home with an inviting scent by baking cookies, cinnamon rolls, apple pie, or by simmering spiced apple cider on the stove. Don’t burn candles or spray deodorizers as some people are allergic to them. Don’t over-do it with sweet smells either, as it can leave buyers wondering what you're trying to conceal.



Even if you're not actually going to be present, treat your potential buyers as if they were guests: feed them. If you have baked a pie or simmered spiced cider, have some available for buyers to sip and snack on. Fresh brewed coffee and donuts or pastries are always a hit. Some people have even offered popular winter comfort foods, like soups, stews, and chili, providing paper bowls and plastic spoons to make clean-up easy. Treating buyers as company will help your home leave a lasting impression on them. Also, providing them something to eat or drink gives buyers a reason to linger longer and perhaps notice aspects of your home they might otherwise have missed.



Finally, when trying to sell your house during the winter time, point out and emphasize the positive attributes it has which might not be as obvious at first glance. Does living at your home provide convenient access to a bus route, local park, shopping venue, or major thoroughfare? These may be points you want to mention to the buyers. Does your home have a nice view? It may be even more apparent in the winter months when trees are bare of leaves. You can never be quite sure about what amenities may click with individual buyers, so think of what makes it great to live in your home and let them know about it.



In some parts of the country, like in the warm southern states where snowbirds flock or popular skiing areas like in Colorado, winter weather doesn’t have that big of an impact on the real estate market. In most parts of the U.S., though, snow, rain, and cold can put a damper on home buying activity. The statistics don’t have to dictate your sale, however. If you put some effort into making potential buyers feel like they’re at home, they just may decide to make it their own.



There is a wide array of Colorado Springs real estate available if you are looking for homes for sale in Colorado Springs. Investing in Colorado Springs real estate property is the best option if you seek the combination of a busy city life and a more relaxed neighborhood. Be sure to consult a reputed Colorado Springs REALTOR for your specific needs.



If you are specifically looking for a commercial real estate in Colorado Springs, please contact Mike Stuard for some of the best Colorado Springs commercial real estate options available.