Colorado Springs Real Estate Resources

Happy Mother's Day!

Fri, 07 May 2010 01:00:00 GMT

Happy Mother's Day! Check out this video with fun Mother's Day facts and have a wonderful holiday.

Colorado Springs Ranked as Top City Again

Thu, 06 May 2010 01:00:00 GMT

Colorado Springs was named one of the Top 10 Cities to Retire In and recently ranked third for Best Cities for Relocating Families according to RelocateAmerica. The top rankings were determined by positive factors such as quality of life, climate, cost of living, tax rates, average home cost, home appreciation, local utilities service, volunteerism, and most importantly things to do.

I recently had a client moving from Germany who researched their top 50 cities to retire in. After years of research and visiting some of the locations they determined that Colorado Springs was the best option. This is not the first time Colorado Springs has made the Top City list and will certainly not be the last.

Gleneagle Tax Hike

Wed, 05 May 2010 01:00:00 GMT

The Donala Water District made an investment in their long term water plans by passing a vote to raise Gleneagle property taxes via a mail-in ballot election, which was completed Tuesday. The tax increase was easily passed with 67% of the vote. This increase will add around $120 to the property taxes on a $300,000 Gleaneagle home for example.

Colorado Springs Short Sale Realtor

Sun, 25 Apr 2010 01:00:00 GMT

Colorado Springs Short Sale Specialist

More people than ever are facing foreclosure and may be able to take advantage of selling a home by short sale. It is important to contact a Colorado Springs Short Sale Realtor as soon as possible. This is a great option if you are facing a foreclosure due to any number of issues like rate adjustments, divorce, relocation, deployment, health issues, ect. It is important to consult with a CDPE (Certified Distressed Property Expert) as they have all of the tools to negotiate a short sale and help avoid foreclosure.

The Daniels Team carries the CDPE designation and specializes in selling short sales in Colorado Springs, Monument, and surrounding areas. As your Colorado Springs Short Sale Specialist we will sit down with you for a consultation immediatly and help provide answers and peace of mind. Best of all, our Short Sale Services are of no cost to you. Visit our Short Sale Resource page to find out more.

Click here to schedule a short sale consultation.

7 Days Until Tax Credit Deadline!

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 01:00:00 GMT

Homebuyers have been coming from everywhere to meet the fastly approaching April 30th deadline for the tax credit. $8,000 for qualifying first time home buyers (haven't owned in last 3 years) and $6,500 for repeat homebuyers (owned current home for at least 5 years). Nearly half of the homes sold in March were purchased by first time home buyers according to a survey done by Campbell/Inside Mortgage Finance.

There is still time to take advantage of this credit! You will need to be under contract on a home by Friday, April 30th and close before the end of June. Contact us for more details.

Colorado Energy Rebates Start Today!

Mon, 19 Apr 2010 01:00:00 GMT

The Federal Government has issued $18 million to Colorado as part of a federal stimulus package providing rebates for energy saving efforts by local consumers. Rebates are offered on a first come, first served basis and are projected to go quickly. Now would be a good time to do some energy saving improvements to your home and purchase energy efficient appliances. Rebates range from $50 - $1500 on items like furnaces, hot water heaters, dishwashers, refrigerators, washers, dryers, boilers, insulation and much more. Make sure to check with your local city and utility company for additional rebates.

Consumers can apply starting at 8 a.m. today at rechargecolorado.com or by calling 800-462-0184.

Saddleback Ridge HOA Lawsuit

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 01:00:00 GMT

The Saddleback Ridge HOA has decided to sue one of the five partnered developers who told potential homeowners and real estate agents during construction that the complex would have a pool and clubhouse. The complex was built in 2006 and now the homeowners are stuck with a broken promise. The trial is scheduled for January 11, 2010 and the HOA wants the developer to stand by his promise or pay $500,000 plus default judgment previously awarded the HOA. The HOA's attorney claims that each of the 96 condo owners has lost about $5,000 in value due to the lack of the promised pool and clubhouse.

This is a prime example of things that can happen with new construction in Colorado Springs and around the nation. I have seen builders/developers promise parks, community landscaping, trails and much more while breaking their promises at the end of the day. This can be a negative while looking for new homes in Colorado Springs. This is why it is extremely important to work with a reputable Realtor in Colorado Springs who can communicate the things to look for in a new home community. Most good Realtors have experienced or heard about these issues with particular builders/developers and are happy to share their experiences with you.

Avoid Foreclosure in Colorado Springs

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 01:00:00 GMT

Foreclosures in Colorado Springs are at an all time high. No area is immune. Chances are someone you know in Colorado Springs and surrounding areas is facing the possibility of foreclosure. It is important to know that they are not alone. Today, 1 out of every 10 homeowners in America is behind on mortgage payments. These are tough and frustrating times. Now more than ever, it's important to identify the available options. Foreclosure can be avoided, credit can be saved, and financial futures can be salvaged.

An even more staggering statistic is that more than 7 out of every 10 foreclosures (bank seizures) occur without the homeowner ever seeking professional intervention.

There are a number of options available to Colorado Springs families facing foreclosure. See some of the options below:

Reinstatement
Forbearance or Repayment Plan
Mortgage Modification
Rent the Property
Deed in Lieu of Foreclosure
Bankruptcy
Refinance
Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (military personnel only)
Sell the Property
Short Sale

There are ways to avoid foreclosure in Colorado Springs and surrounding areas. Contact a Certified Distressed Property Expert to find out.

Colorado Springs Traffic Rankings

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 12:24:00 GMT

The lack of traffic in Colorado Springs is yet another benifit of what the city has to offer. As one of America's top 100 congested metro areas, Colorado Springs ranks 91st for the second year in a row. Los Angelos, CA takes first place for worst traffic according to this report compiled by INRIX, a provider of traffic and navigation services. New York City and Chicago followed in the number 2 and 3 position. These congestion rankings are based only on travel during weekday peak driving times (6AM-10AM and 3PM-7PM). It is great we can enjoy the benefits of living in one of America's 100 largest cities without the major traffic issues that follow.

Colorado Springs Real Estate Stats - August 2009

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 01:00:00 GMT

Below are some great Colorado Springs real estate stats for El Paso County. You will find that homes priced under $250,000 are moving very well with an average supply of 3-6 months. The supply rises drastically as listing prices goes up. The first time home buyer tax credit and flux of new home buyers is adding to this trend in the lower price ranges.

Colorado Springs Real Estate Stats - Listing Supply By Price - August 2009

Colorado Springs Real Estate Stats - Listings Sold By Price - August 2009

Home Buyer Tax Credit Expires Soon

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 01:00:00 GMT

The Countdown Continues!

The $8,000 first time home buyers tax credit ends November 30. There is still time to close if you are eligible for the tax credit. Contact your Realtor to discuss your plans of closing before the expiration date.

Colorado Springs Ranked #1 City in America!

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 20:12:00 GMT

Outside Magazine has just ranked Colorado Springs as the #1 city to live in for 2009. The main factors considered were cultural vibrancy, economic well-being, and overall quality of life from the 100 most populated cities in America. When taking into account cost of living, unemployment, nightlife, commute time, access to green spaces, population with college degrees, income level in relation to home prices, and weather Colorado Springs leads the pack. Quality and proximity to biking, running, paddling, hiking, and skiing were also considered in the final rankings. Checkout the article to find out more.

The Runners Up:

10. Charlotte, North Carolina

9. Cincinnati, Ohio

8. Minneapolis, Minnesota

7. Portland, Oregon

6. Albuquerque, New Mexico

5. Boston, Massachusetts

4. Austin, Texas

3. Atlanta, Georgia

2. Seattle, Washington

New Listing - Stetson Hills Charmer!

Tue, 05 May 2009 01:00:00 GMT

Stetson Hills Charmer!
Type: Co-op
Location: 6280 Scottsbluff Dr., Colorado Springs, CO 80923
Bedrooms: 2, Bathrooms: 1 full, 1 half, 1 three-quarter bath
Price: $174,900
Description: * VERY NICE HOME WITH VAULTED CEILINGS, CEILING FANS, VERY OPEN, LIGHT AND BRIGHT FLOOR PLAN * THIS MODEL HAS IT'S OWN SEPERATE MASTER BATHROOM AND LARGE WALK-IN CLOSET * TANDEM 2 CAR GARAGE * 2 BEDROOMS PLUS A LARGE LOFT THAT COULD BE USED AS A FAMILY ROOM, BEDROOM, HOBBY ROOM, ECT. * MANICURED FENCED BACKYARD WITH PATIO AND SPRINKLER SYSTEM * THIS HOME IS A DELIGHT TO SEE AND VERY CLOSE TO SNOWY RIVER PARK!!

Click Here for More Information and Photos.

Delinquent Mortgages Not As Bad In Colorado

Fri, 06 Mar 2009 18:34:00 GMT

The nation has had a large number of delinquent mortgages coming into the fourth quarter. The news seems to be great at generalizing the stats for all but you should really listen more to the what is happening in each market. Colorado has definitely had an increase in delinquent mortgages accounting for a total of 5.61percent of all Colorado Mortgages in the fourth quarter. According to the Mortgage Bankers Association Colorado’s delinquency rate ranked 42nd nationwide in the fourth quarter, with first being the highest rate and 50th the lowest. Things are bad, but they could be much worse.

Home Buyer Tax Credit!

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 13:37:00 GMT

It is definitely a great time to buy a home! Home prices and interest rates are at historic lows which leaves open even more opportunities as a home buyer. Now the government has added an $8,000 tax credit to all qualified home buyers who have not owned a principle residence in the last 3 years. Home affordability is now drawing renters into a home of their own. Here is a chart that outlines the tax credit.

If you do not qualify for the credit you can still take advantage of low home prices and interest rates along with a larger inventory of homes to chose from. Start your search now to see for yourself.

**Home Buyer Tax Credit**
FEATURE	CREDIT AS CREATED JULY 2008 APPLIES TO ALL QUALIFIED PURCHASES ON OR AFTER APRIL 9, 2008	REVISED CREDIT- EFFECTIVE FOR PURCHASES ON OR AFTER JANUARY 1, 2009 & BEFORE DECEMBER 1, 2009
Amount of Credit	Lessor of 10% of cost of home or $7500.	Lessor of 10% of cost of home or $8000.
Eligible Property	Any Single Family Residence (including condos, co-ops, townhouses) that will be used as a principle residence.	No Change. All principle residences eligible.
Refundable	Yes. Reduces (or can eliminate) income tax liability for the year of the purchase. Any unused amount of tax credit refunded to purchaser.	No Change. Purchasers will continue to receive refund for unused amount when tax return is filed.
Income Limit	Yes. Full amount of tax credit available for individuals with adjusted gross income of no more than $75,000 ($150,000 on a joint return). Phases out above those caps ($95,000 and $170,000).	No Change. Same income limits continue to apply.
First Time Home Buyer Only	Yes. Purchaser (and purchaser's spouse) may not have owned a principal residence in 3 years previous to purchase.	No Change. Still available to first time purchasers only. Three year rule continues to apply.
Revenue Bond Financing	No credit allowed if home financed with state/local bond funding.	Purchasers who utilize revenue bond financing can use credit
Repayment	Yes. Portion (6.67% of credit or $500) to be repaid each year for 15 years starting with 2010 tax filing.	No repayment for purchases on or after January 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009.
Recapture	If home sold before 15 year repayment period ends, then outstanding balance of repayment amount recaptured on sale.	If home is sold within three years of purchase, entire amount of credit is recaptured on sale. Applies only to homes purchased in 2009.
Termination	July 1, 2009 (But note program changes in 2009)	December 1, 2009
Effective Date	Purchases on or after April 9, 2008 and before January 1, 2009. Repayment to begin for 2010 tax year.	All revisions are effective as of January 1, 2009

**This information is a brief overview about the home buyer tax credit and should be confirmed with the latest tax code and your accountant.

Verizon Wirless Expands in Colorado Springs!

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 12:59:00 GMT

Verizon Wireless paid 6.4 million dollars for a property in Colorado Springs that was owned by Vitesse Semiconductor Corp at 4323 Arrowswest Drive. The purchase included a 107,381-square-foot industrial building and 9 acres of neighboring land. This is yet another good sign for the local Colorado Springs economy and will be a boost for real estate in Colorado Springs.

Possible Addition to Peterson Air Force Base

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 17:46:00 GMT

Peterson Air Force Base is among 5 other military bases around the nation to house the 24th Air Force Unit which will fall under Air Force Space Command to oversee cyberspace warfare. The Unit is in charge of global cyberwars.

The other finalists for the 24th Air Force Unit are Barksdale Air Force Base, La., Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, Langley Air Force Base, Va., Offutt Air Force Base, Neb., and Scott AFB, Ill. It will be interesting to see where they end up.

This would be great for the local economy in addition to the already expanding Fort Carson, which is in the process of doubling in size.

John McCain, Sarah Palin, and Barack Obama in Colorado Springs!

Fri, 05 Sep 2008 13:29:00 GMT

It is great to see so many candidates coming to Colorado Springs no matter what party you are affiliated or unaffiliated with! Many candidates have come to Colorado Springs, CO during the primaries leading up to the Democrat and Republican Conventions and plan to all the way to the presidential election.

Democratic Presidential Candidate Barack Obama visited Colorado Springs on July 2nd and addressed a crowd at UCCS (the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs). He used the opportunity to lay out his agenda on national service in the military and in civic service. There are no future visits planned to Colorado Springs that are known of for Obama at this point.

Republican Presidential Candidate John McCain and his newly selected running mate Sarah Palin will be in Colorado Springs on Saturday, September 6 for a huge rally at the Colorado Jet Center (1575 Aviation Way in Colorado Springs). Doors will open about 9 a.m. with John McCain and Sarah Palin showing up around 11 a.m. The event is open to the public were free tickets can be found at the GOP headquarters for Colorado Springs.

Colorado Springs Newspaper

Thu, 04 Sep 2008 10:32:00 GMT

We have had a number of people ask us about a Colorado Springs Newspaper. There are a number of newspapers in Colorado Springs to chose from. If you are looking for news and topics in a major newspaper or news specific to an area or topic Colorado Springs has it covered!

General Newspapers for Colorado Springs:

The Gazette is the largest newspaper circulated in the area and is one of the better papers I have seen in the state. The Colorado Springs Independent is another newspaper that has a fairly large circulation for the area. Follow the link below for more.

Specific Newspapers in Colorado Springs:

The Colorado Springs Business Journal is a great read that focuses on business and developement in Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak Region. You will also find Military specific newspapers for The Air Force Academy (Academy Spirit), Fort Carson (Mountaineer), Peterson Air Force Base (Space Observer), and Shriever Air Force Base (Schriever Sentinel).

Click Here For Links and Information To Colorado Springs Newspapers!

Fort Carson Soldiers Deployed to Iraq Wednesday

Thu, 04 Sep 2008 09:58:00 GMT

Around 230 members of Fort Carson's 2nd Brigade Combat Team and 4th Infantry Division deployed to Iraq on Wednesday for 12-months. Half of the troops have served in Iraq before and the other half are on their first tour of duty there. Stay safe and thanks for your service to this country!