Danell Estrada's Blog

New High School in Highlands Ranch, CO

Danell Estrada (Highlands Ranch Appraisals, LLC) — Wed, 27 Jul 2011 23:43:31 -0700

A new Charter High School is opening in Highland Ranch Colorado called Skyview Academy welcomes its first class of 9th graders. A little more than half of the slots remain for the 100-student 9th grade class. This class will become the first graduating class of Skyview Academy.

This School is located near 470 and Quebec and is a school that will have pre-K to 12th grade. Last year was its first year opeing up and provided pre-k to 5th grade. This coming year will be pre-k to 6th grade and adding in the first high schoolers.

This school focus is on Spanish for all grade levels, character development and using core knowledge curriculum. I am proud to say my son had his first year at this school and has improved 2 grade levels in reading, knows more Spanish then I learned in high school and I really love how the school has shown character development with all the kids. The History and science he knows also amazes me. He knows about the war of 1812 and digestive system, how many different kinds of bees there are...etc and I could go on and on. Her is only 7 years old. The best part is that he is excited to come home and tell me what he has learned everyday.

The school has a requirement of having the parents volunteer 40 hours during the year. This helps bring in parents that are more involved with their kids to the school. It also helps as lower the cost to run the school, which is very much needed in each school district in the country. Kids are all at different reading and math levels so the same reading level or math levels are put in to groups so that all the kids improve. No gap in education for the ones ahead and ones behind in learning. Even if your kid is way ahead in math he will then be put in a group that is his level even if its two grades higher.

Another great thing is that the class size stays the same 25 per class for 1st and up no more and no less. When the high school is full with each grade 9th to 12th it will be smaller than a normal high school in the district. There is plans for 100 per grade level for the high school, but it may go up to 125 at the most for the high school due to demand for a good high school.

For more information please look at www.skyviewacademy.org

The new way to Value: Collateral Valuation Report, CVR

Danell Estrada (Highlands Ranch Appraisals, LLC) — Sun, 03 Jul 2011 05:22:19 -0700

Ok follow appraisers, has anyone tried the new Collateral Valuation Report (CVR) or also know as comp Cruncher. Well I have and it is great I really feel like I am Appraising and have all the verification and analysis at my figure tips and easily shown through this report. It is based off of statistics and uses regression analysis.

Lenders view the CVR as a highly attractive alternative to replace BPOs. They are more accurate, more reliable and have a lot of analytical features. These CVRs are good for portfolio loans, default management, alternative loan modification programs.

This report can be done with in hours as most of the data is uploaded through the software. Yes I said within hours. I got it down to about 3 hours total (plus that includes a drive-by). I only do them for ones that are near me and ones with enough data to be able to pull a good regression analysis.

The way it is laid out with the satellite petometry views of each side of the subject, the way all the data is pulled from your MLS and imported in, and all the graphs that are made for you to view. You end up with a regression value, and sales comparison value and a listing value. Three different values show then you pick your opinion based off of those results. The regression supports all adjustments and helps support the sales comparison. Of course the listings are there more for a future outlook. The report looks like it is done by the most professional expects in the industry.

When it comes down to it you make a lot more per hour than an appraisal and it is more enjoyable to do!!! As you know appraisal reports are requiring more and more and more. These reports do the best job to get the job done more efficiently then before.

This is the new thing don't wait and miss out. As U.S Bank is now ordering them. Need a sample report I will send you one.

New Way to Value: Collarteral Valuation Report??? (CVR)

Danell Estrada (Highlands Ranch Appraisals, LLC) — Sun, 03 Jul 2011 05:20:56 -0700

Ok follow appraisers, has anyone tried the new Collateral Valuation Report (CVR) or also known as comp Cruncher. Well I have and it is great I really feel like I am a professional Appraiser with this and have all the verification and analysis at my figure tips to be the most effective in my work. It is based off of statistics and uses regression analysis. The results are the best I have ever seen in an appraisal.

This report can be done with in hours as most of the data is uploaded through the software. (just like when you pull your comps before the inspection, and market conditions). Yes I said within hours. I got it down to about 3 hours total (plus that includes a drive-by). I only do them for ones that are near me and ones with enough data to be able to pull a good regression analysis.

The way it is laid out with the satellite petometry views of each side of the subject, the way all the data is pulled from your MLS and imported in, and all the graphs that are made for you to view. You end up with a regression value, and sales comparison value and a listing value. Three different values sso then you cane support your opinion based off of those results. The regression supports all adjustments and helps support the sales comparison. Of course the listings are there more for a future outlook. The report looks like it is done by the most professional expects in the industry.

This is the new thing don't wait and miss out. As U.S Bank is now ordering them. Need a sample report I will send you one.

Highlands Ranch, CO 4th of July Celebration

Danell Estrada (Highlands Ranch Appraisals, LLC) — Sun, 03 Jul 2011 04:49:51 -0700

The Highlands Ranch Colorado celebration is always a great family activity. Located at the Highlands Ranch Town center near Lucent and Highlands Ranch Pkwy. Here is the list:

8am 5k Run/Walk

8:30 Family pet & Bike Parade

9:00 July 4th Parade with F-16's starting off

From 9-7pm there is live music, games, inflatables, hay ride, donkey rides, food and more.

Of coruse there is the large FIREWORKS at 9:15

This year it is Highlands Ranch 30th anniversary so there will be an additional concert, a military flyover to start the parade, performing pigs and a combat challenge.

If you live in Colorado this is the place to be for the 4th of July!!!

There are more Dogs in houses than there are Kids!!!

Danell Estrada (Highlands Ranch Appraisals, LLC) — Fri, 24 Jun 2011 22:34:10 -0700

More Dogs than Kids, can you believe it? More the reason to live near a Good Dog Park.

Dog Park Locations in Highlands Ranch, CO

-Rover's Run at Redstone Park

3280 Redstone Park Cir,is located east of Redstone Park, near the intersection of Town Center Drive and Foothills Canyon Boulevard. Parking is available at the Redstone Park Tennis Center. Great park with a high fence, picnic tables, benches and a path to walk around the Park.

-Fido's field at Foothills Park

1042 Riddlewood Dr To get to Foothills Park from Lucent Boulevard, turn south on Timbervale Trail to Riddlewood. It can also be accessed from Winterthur Way, west of Broadway. Parking is available at Foothills Park off Winterthur Way in the lot next to the Indigo Hills swimming pool.

-Digger's at Dad Clark Park

3385 Asterbrook Cir, west of Fairview Parkway and Summit View Parkway. Parking is available at Dad Clark Park.

-Hound Hill At Highlands Heritage Regional park

9651 S Quebec St. Located south of the Quebec/University/Lincoln intersection south of the Highlands Ranch Post Office. Parking is available at Highland Heritage Regional Park.

WATER IS AVAILABLE DURING IRRIGATION SEASON

Another great reason to live in Highlands Ranch is these great dog parks your dog can run free in.

There are more Dogs in houses then there are Kids!!!

Danell Estrada (Highlands Ranch Appraisals, LLC) — Fri, 24 Jun 2011 22:25:53 -0700

More Dogs then Kids Can you believe it? More the reason to live near a Good Dog Park.

Dog Park Locations in Highlands Ranch, CO

-Rover's Run at Redstone Park

-Fido's field at Foothills Park

-Digger's at Dad Clark Park

3385 Asterbrook Cir, west of Fairview Parkway and Summit View Parkway. Parking is available at Dad Clark Park.

-Hound Hill At Highlands Heritage Regional park

9651 S Quebec St. Located south of the Quebec/University/Lincoln intersection south of the Highlands Ranch Post Office. Parking is available at Highland Heritage Regional Park.

WATER IS AVAILABLE DURING IRRIGATION SEASON

Another great reason to live in Highlands Ranch is these great dog parks your dog can run free in.

Construction on Santa Fe

Danell Estrada (Highlands Ranch Appraisals, LLC) — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 02:15:05 -0700

C-470/US 85 (Santa Fe Drive) Interchange

In late June 2010, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) began a safety and mobility improvement project that constructs a flyover ramp from southbound Santa Fe Drive (US 85) to eastbound C-470. In addition, the project will construct a new bridge over Erickson Boulevard as well as a bicycle/pedestrian bridge over Erickson Boulevard. The bicycle/pedestrian trail will also be reconstructed.

The $26.7 million project is partially funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) as well as CDOT and Douglas County. Edward Kraemer and Sons, Inc. is the contractor for this project scheduled to be complete by January 2012.

This is the first improvement project for this interchange. The second project will reconstruct the Santa Fe Drive bridge over C-470 and widen Santa Fe Drive to three lanes in each direction between Blakeland Drive and County Line Road. The Santa Fe Drive/County Line Road intersection will also be improved with double left turn lanes and right turn lanes.

How to Find a Good Appraiser

Danell Estrada (Highlands Ranch Appraisals, LLC) — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 01:39:38 -0700

When it comes to finding a real estate appraiser, many homeowners don't know what to look for. Here are 5 things to look for in a property appraiser:

Always make sure a property appraiser is licensed or certified by the state to perform real estate appraisals. This will ensure that the individual has met certain standards and is authorized to perform a property appraisal. The state will also show any disciplinary action if the individual has one. A good source for all of U.S appraisers are listed at http://www.asc.gov
Don't be afraid to ask an appraiser for a copy or his or her license. A good appraiser will readily provide documentation. Copies of licenses are commonly requested by their other clients and once you have the copy it is a good idea to check with the government agency (as stated above) to ensure it is active and in good standing.
Ask the appraiser what percentage of their work is performed in the neighborhood. Appraisers who do a lot of their work or live in a particular area often have a deeper knowledge of the market and property values then others outside the area.
Find out if the appraiser has experience in performing appraisals for consumers as opposed to real estate professionals. Homeowners would have different needs than a loan officer or a lawyer. An appraiser who understands the different needs is more likely to help you learn about the appraisal process and answer any questions you may have.
Make sure it is an appraiser who is willing to answer you questions and willing to explain the process. An appraiser that makes you feel more comfortable with the process is a true sign of a professional.

No appraisal is an exact science but if done properly the appraisal can give a credible result. Through market analysis a trained appraiser can give an opinion of value which can be relied upon and be well supported with the proper analysis.

What is "Market Value"?

Danell Estrada (Highlands Ranch Appraisals, LLC) — Wed, 08 Jun 2011 21:46:33 -0700

Market value is generally defined as the price a willing buyer would pay a willing seller for a property with neither buyer nor seller under pressure to act (relocation, death of a family member, divorce, bankruptcy, avoid foreclosure etc.). A market value sale also is known as an arm's length transaction. (A sale (transaction) made between a willing buyer and seller and no relationship to each other)

A number of factors may affect a residential property's market value, including:

External characteristics - "curb appeal", home condition, lot size, popularity of an architectural style of property, neighborhood etc.
Internal characteristics - size and number of rooms, construction quality, appliance condition, any updating or remodeling, kitchen and bathrooms, etc.
Supply and demand - the number of homes for sale versus the number of buyers; how quickly the homes in your area sell, and how easy financing is to get for the buyers
Location - desirability for a particular school district, neighborhood, style of homes, distance to jobs etc.

THE SALES COMPARISON APPROACH

The most common way to determine the market value of a residential property is to use the sales comparison approach. This is the primary method used by professional appraisers to determine the market value of residential properties.

By examining recent sales of at least three properties in a general (or similar) neighborhood that are comparable in building style, size and construction, one can begin to get a good understanding of a residential property's market value. Comparable sales should include characteristics similar to a given property, such as lot sizes, square footage, home style, age, and location of the home. A new three-bedroom two story house may not be comparable with an older three bedroom ranch, even if they are on the same street.

WHERE TO FIND COMPARABLE SALES

Local assessors' offices should be able to provide the sales history of a particular house, neighborhood, or style of architecture. Some assessors also provide lists of recent sales that one can browse and compare to the assessment roll.
Some private companies provide comparable sales online (some at a nominal cost); search for them using keywords such as "comparable home sales" or "comparable sales".
Online you can look at homes for sale and homes that already have sold
Many local newspapers are good sources of real estate information; they often have quarterly sales reports in the real estate or business sections.
A real estate agent may be willing to share his or her expertise and sales history information.

Remember staying within the same neighborhood is important and using comparables that are the most similar to the home is the best way to estimate the market value of a home.

LOW APPRAISAL

Danell Estrada (Highlands Ranch Appraisals, LLC) — Fri, 25 Feb 2011 15:17:01 -0800

Sometimes appraisals come out lower than the agreed selling price. It is easy to label the appraiser as conservative or not competent when this occurs, but there can be some justifiable reasons these transactions end up the way they do. (if the appraiser does their job right)

When the appraisal conclusion is lower than the sales price, the transaction may be in jeopardy. Remember the appraiser's job is not to reach a value that is desired or even needed for a transaction or loan to be completed.

The appraiser's job is to be objective, impartial and unbiased. Realistically the appraisal should be well supported within the market. "Value" is defined as the monetary relationship between properties and those who buy, sell, or use those properties. Value expresses an economic concept. So it is never a fact but always an opinion of the worth of a property at a given time.

I know many Realtors do not like it when appraisals do not come out as they expected. Appraisers are simply doing their job of being impartial.

As an Appraiser I have done a few appraisals that ended up lower than the purchase price. As many of the realtors involved were upset, the transaction still took place, just at a lower price. From my point of view it if the list price is reasonable for the market the property sells faster and with little to no issues in the opinion of value from the appraiser.

What is your point of view on this subject?

LOW APPRAISAL

Danell Estrada (Highlands Ranch Appraisals, LLC) — Thu, 24 Feb 2011 19:00:25 -0800

Sometimes appraisals come out lower than the agreed selling price. It is easy to label the appraiser as conservative or not competent when this occurs, but there are some justifiable reasons these transactions end up the way they do.

I know many Realtors do not like it when appraisals do not come out as they expected. Appraisers are simply doing their job of being impartial.

What is your point of view on this subject?

Come to these FREE Fitness days.

Danell Estrada (Highlands Ranch Appraisals, LLC) — Wed, 23 Feb 2011 01:55:09 -0800

All classes, All day, All facilities in Highlands Ranch Try classes on one of the following days for FREE! There is so many classes to pick from.

It is first come first serve. Ages 13 and up are welcome.

All HRCA Recreation Centers on the following days ONLY!

-Friday, February 25

-Saturday, March 12
-

Wednesday, April 13

*Excludes Specialty Fitness Classes

Just some more great things in Highlands Ranch Colorado. It is great to have 4 reaction centers with pools, fitness centers, tennis courts, tumbling classes, music classes, swim lessons, art classes and more.

Highlands Ranch has so much to offer.

What kind of reaction things are inb your area of Real Estate?

Upcoming Events In Highlands Ranch

Danell Estrada (Highlands Ranch Appraisals, LLC) — Wed, 23 Feb 2011 01:38:56 -0800

Winter Cultural Series-Ballet Ariel

Cherry Hills Community Church (map) 2-24-2011 at 7:00 -8:30 pm

There is only one more of the winter series left. The Ballet Ariel Company, founded in 1998, delights audiences with the diversity of their programs and dancers. Ballet Ariel will conclude the series with a wonderful mix of classical and modern ballet. For more information on Ballet Ariel click here.

Tickets:

$7 per member

$5 for children 2-12

$10 per guest

$10 the day of the performance.

Children 2 and under free but must sit on parents lap.

Online Registration is not currently available for ticketed events. To purchase tickets, visit any HRCA recreation center or call 303-471-8859. Tickets will be available at the door, if not sold out. All ticket sales are final and no refunds will be issued. For general information call 303-791-2500.

Ski/Snowboard Trips

Eldora Ski Area 2-26-2011 8am-4pmUpcomin

HRCA and Eldora Mountain Resort have teamed up to offer individuals and families fantastic ski and snowboard trips! Skiers and riders will be picked up and dropped off at Eastridge on the following dates via bus. Then travel to Eldora Mountain Resort for a great day of skiing and riding. At a low price of $25! Includes one day lift ticket and bus transportation. Season Pass holders receive FREE bus trip. (Ages 8-Adult)

Pick up: Eastridge Pool Parking Lot
Price: $25
Saturdays: February 26, and March 3 & 12, 8:00 - 4:00 p.m.

Note: All participants must sign HRCA liability waiver prior to getting on the bus. Participants18 years and under must have a signed release waiver. Children 12 years and under must have parent supervision.

Full Moon Hike 2-26-2011 6pm-8pm

Backcountry Wilderness Area (map)

Hike into the heart of the Backcountry. Listen to the night sounds, watch the full moon rise, and enjoy a quiet, peaceful winter night. Snowshoes are optional. Dress warm and headlamps are highly recommended.

Meet at 6:00 p.m. at the trailhead/parking lot on Grigs Road.

Members $7; Program Guest $9

Online Registration or call 303-791-2500

Backcountry Winter Vehicle Tour 2-27-2011 3pm-5pm

During the winter months in Backcountry Elk are herded up, turkeys are easy to find, coyotes are on the prowl, and if we're lucky there will be nice snow cover which just adds to the beauty of the Backcountry. Get a full tour of the Backcountry and stop in a secluded spot to warm up by the fire with some hot cocoa and s'mores.

Meet at Southridge Parking Lot.

Member $25; Program Guest $33

Upcoming Events in February

Danell Estrada (Highlands Ranch Appraisals, LLC) — Wed, 23 Feb 2011 01:35:20 -0800