There has been great debate and publicity surrounding the “Over The River” project. The world famous Cristo is planning on draping the Arkansas River with approx 6 miles of fabric. The debates include things like environmental concerns, traffic, employment, wildlife, local established business, new business and general bother to the city.
Endorsements in favor of the Cristo “Over the River” project are coming in but the silence of those not endorsing the project is just about as loud. If the project is as successful as planners hope there will be approx 400,000 to 500,000 visitors to the Canon City and Royal Gorge area in a short two week period of time.
My opinion as a local resident fluctuates between approval and disapproval although nobody actually asked my opinion. My biggest concerns are....
Information Herein Deemed Reliable but Not Guaranteed
All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Dena Stevens, and may not be used without the expressed consent. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2004-2011. Dena Stevens Realtor 719 369-9087.
Real Estate agents live in their cars and the cars look like it too! I won't tell you which of the cars in this slide show in mine but, let's just say I'm really happy with James at Smart Shine!
719 431-9070
Information Herein Deemed Reliable but Not Guaranteed
All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Dena Stevens, and may not be used without the expressed consent. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2004-2011. Dena Stevens Realtor 719 369-9087.
More great advice from an experienced agent! Short sales are time consuming! If the buyer is planning on moving in and living in the property know this short sale could take a long, long time. If the buyer isn't willing to hang in there the sale isn't worth anybodies time or trouble.
Recently I was working with a buyer on a short sale for an investment property. The bank was dragging it's feet. We worked on buying the short sale house for 4 months! The buyer wasn't going to move in, the house would have been an investement. But after 4 months time had taken it's tole and the buyers walked. Nobody won.
I don't blame the buyers, it's a difficult process. But for all the buyers who think they are getting a great deal, you might be but only if the deal closes.
When you started looking for a place to buy, presumably, your agent educated you on the types of sales that you can choose from, the pros and cons of regular sales, short sales, and foreclosures.
And that when you decided to write an offer on my short sale listing that you determined that this is the one you want.
"Good faith in legal terminology refers to the use of honesty and best efforts in dealings with others."
And that you were prepared to wait. Your agent may have told you it could be 3 months or longer from the time you submit your offer to the time you can close escrow.
Since you still submitted your offer, we assumed you were serious.
My seller and I busted our buns in submitting a complete short sale package to the shorr sale lender. Each bank has different sets of requirements, but typically, they require the following
Hardship Letter
Financial Statement
Profit and Loss Statement (if seller is self-employed)
2 most recent pay stubs or evidence of income
2 most recent bank statements
2 most recent tax returns
Affidavit of arms-length transaction
Additionally, as the seller's realtor, I provide
Letter of Authorization from the seller to allow me to convey/receive information on the loan(s)
Listing agreement
Property information (MLS, market analysis, comps)
Short Sale Listing Addendum
Accepted offer (from you)
Buyer's preapproval letter
Buyer's proof of funds
Estimated closing (HUD) statement from your escrow manager/title company
All these documents take time to compile and submit to the short sale lender. And the bank's set up specialist and negotiatos need time to review the file and submit to the investor.
We follow up and we update your own realtor --- nearly weekly --- so that he, in turn, can update you.
Now, just as we are close to getting the short sale approval, you tell us you're backing out?
Do you know how devastating this is?
How could we have known you wrote offers on other properties?
If you weren't serious about this one, why write an offer?
We changed the status of the listing to "pending, subject to lender approval" which is nearly the same as taking it off the market while we work through the process.
Now, for the next buyer, we literally have to start all over again from the very beginning. That short sale approval was specific to you as the buyer. For the next buyer, we have to start the process as if this is a new short sale application. And yes, re-submit the entire package
Is it any wonder that some short sale sellers and their agents require the buyer to open escrow and submit their intial deposit check as proof of their seriousness in purchase of the property?
Raw emotions, untold number of hours, mountains of paperwork are involved.
Next time you write an offer ---make sure that you truly are acting in good faith and will make every effort to move forward if your offer is accepted. It's the right and fair thing to do.
If, at any time, you are uncertain about your desire to buy the specific property, don't wait too long, and back out quickly so that we can restart sooner.
Information Herein Deemed Reliable but Not Guaranteed
All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Dena Stevens, and may not be used without the expressed consent. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2004-2011. Dena Stevens Realtor 719 369-9087.
I've been searching for a letter like this for some time. This is excellent advise for the seller who needs to face future and is afraid to do so.
If you are a seller who is afraid to tell your current agent, a friend who is an agent or your last agent that you are in trouble - please tell any short sale agent that you need help! We aren't here to judge you, we're here to help you!
We get that you are uncomfortable or embarrassed to tell us you are having problems. Think about your friend the agent, how are they going to feel when you lose your house and they could have done something to help you. I've been there, done that but my friends were embarrassed. It's happened to me, my friends moved out in the middle of the night and I could have helped them with more than just boxes.
We want to help, we really do...but we can't do it without your help and active participation in this process. There are several things we hope you'll take to heart
COMPETITION
Put your ego aside and price it aggressively
Don't think of how much you paid for it, or how much you think it's worth.
It's only worth what a buyer is willing to pay for it
Buyers will be attracted to your property only if they believe it's a good deal, i.e. good price
Short sales are competing with other listings that are easier and faster to close, including bank-owned listings and regular sales
It takes a special --- and very patient --- buyer who is willing to write an offer on a short sale and wait for 3 months or longer
COMPLIANCE
Do not discontinue insurance. If you do, your lender may have to get a more expensive forced place insurance for your place and bill you for it.
Don't assume that the short sale lender will pay for all your delinquencies and closing costs.
If there is an HOA, make sure you continue paying it.
First of all, your HOA can foreclose just as any bank can.
Secondly, some banks may not approve paying off your delinquent HOA fees and fines.
CONDITION
First impression counts -- the same advice on how to market a home for sale still applies.
That means: good curb appeal, well-maintained, clean, clutter and odor free. Yes, it's work, but it must be done.
But if you must remove a chandelier, put something in its place. It's not only unsightly but unsafe to have loose wiring.
COMPLETENESS
Yes we know there's a mountain of documents that the bank requires. Please respond to requests for updated bank statements, pay stubs or sources of income, financial worksheets.
Since short sales take awhile to process, these statements may be outdated by the time they get to the negotiator.
Don't make us nag you to provide required information on time.
Disclose other liens and pertinent information affecting your loan.
And if you're planning to declare bankruptcy or some other action affecting this transaction, tell us right away.
Don't wait until we're almost closing escrow before you tell us! Non-disclosure is akin to deception and bad faith.
COMPASSION --- commiserate, don't complain
Many agents flat out refuse to work with short sales because it requires 10 times the amount of work ---effort, time, patience --- than it would be for a regular sale or even a bank-owned sale.
Your listing agent is doing this to help you.
So don't get upset with him if he asks you for more documents, more information.... or that the process is taking so long
As a matter of fact, you may want to help by following up with your lender from time to time, and lend support to your agent's efforts
Information Herein Deemed Reliable but Not Guaranteed
All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Dena Stevens, and may not be used without the expressed consent. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2004-2011. Dena Stevens Realtor 719 369-9087.
An Enormous Thank You to James at Smart Shine in Canon City, CO. My car looks amazing!!!
(719) 431-9070
Information Herein Deemed Reliable but Not Guaranteed
All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Dena Stevens, and may not be used without the expressed consent. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2004-2011. Dena Stevens Realtor 719 369-9087.
Dena Stevens | Century 21 Canon Land & Inv | (719) 369-9087
308 W New York Ave, Canon City, CO
2BR/1BA Single Family House
offered at $42,500
Year Built
1908
Sq Footage
704
Bedrooms
2
Bathrooms
1 full, 0 partial
Floors
1
Parking
Unspecified
Lot Size
6,000 sqft
HOA/Maint
$0 per month
DESCRIPTION
I've had a face lift, new paint, new carpet and new linoleum.Newer roof,bathroom vanity and furnace.Covered front porch and fenced yard with parking in back. Big shade trees keep me cooler in summer, shrubs and flowers give me color.Great starter home or investment rental in quiet neighborhood. Why rent when you can own for less per month?
Directions: Take Royal Gorge Blvd (#50) go South on 1st street turn right on New York!
Listing agent Linda Mattson says bring all offers!
see additional photos below
ADDITIONAL PHOTOS
Photo 1
Contact info:
Dena Stevens
Century 21 Canon Land & Inv
230500914
(719) 369-9087
For sale by agent/broker
Equal Opportunity Housing
Posted: Jan 20, 2012, 12:42pm PST
Information Herein Deemed Reliable but Not Guaranteed
All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Dena Stevens, and may not be used without the expressed consent. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2004-2011. Dena Stevens Realtor 719 369-9087.
To commit to anything, you must be ready, willing and able. If these things are not in place you really aren’t committed to your goal.
Let’s talk about buying a house.
1) Are you ready? Tell your REALTOR when you would like to accomplish buying a house. If you need to move right away, you are 1/2 packed and a new job or situation is waiting – you are ready. Same goes with selling you house. Prove to your agent and buyers you want to move.
2) Are you willing? Are you willing to make a list of wants and needs? Are you willing to put in the time necessary? Are you willing to commit to the agent who is spending time, money and resources to help you?
3) Able? This is a big one! Are you able to get a mortgage? Are you able to come up with earnest money? Are you able to come up with down payment money? Are you able to to do what ever is necessary to achieve your goal – purchasing a new property?
Information Herein Deemed Reliable but Not Guaranteed
All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Dena Stevens, and may not be used without the expressed consent. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2004-2011. Dena Stevens Realtor 719 369-9087.
Dena Stevens | Century 21 Canon Land & Inv | (719) 369-9087
1865 York Ave, Canon City, CO
Only 7 miles from DT Canon City
3BR/3+1BA Single Family House
offered at $259,900
Year Built
2008
Sq Footage
4,175
Bedrooms
3
Bathrooms
3 full, 1 partial
Floors
1
Parking
2 Car garage
Lot Size
40 acres
HOA/Maint
$0 per month
DESCRIPTION
Outstanding house on 40 acres only 7 miles to D.T. Canon City. Huge Family room, formal dining room, glamorous master suite. Work shop with power and separate barn. Includes appliances: 2 fridge, dishwasher, microwave, wood burning stove. Second level could be finished. Fenced for horses and mountain views.
DIRECTIONS: From Hwy #50 take 9th Street North at Washington turn right at York (Stop sigh) turn left. Take York out where the pavement ends, make sharp left follow road to the house with white fence.
More pictures visit http://www.realestatecoloradostyle.com/1865-york-ave-canon-city-co-81212
see additional photos below
PROPERTY FEATURES
- Central A/C
- Central heat
- Family room
- Living room
- Dishwasher
- Refrigerator
- Stove/Oven
- Microwave
- Laundry area - inside
ADDITIONAL PHOTOS
Photo 1
Contact info:
Dena Stevens
Century 21 Canon Land & Inv
230500914
(719) 369-9087
For sale by agent/broker
Equal Opportunity Housing
Posted: Dec 22, 2011, 2:37pm PST
Information Herein Deemed Reliable but Not Guaranteed
All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Dena Stevens, and may not be used without the expressed consent. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2004-2011. Dena Stevens Realtor 719 369-9087.
Dena Stevens | Century 21 Canon Land & Inv | (719) 369-9087
29206 Iris Rd, Pueblo, CO
On the St. Charles Mesa! Car Lovers Dream - 7 car garages!
4BR/3BA Single Family House
offered at $319,000
Year Built
2005
Sq Footage
3,048
Bedrooms
4
Bathrooms
3 full, 0 partial
Floors
1
Parking
4+ Car garage
Lot Size
2.79 acres
HOA/Maint
$0 per month
DESCRIPTION
29206 Iris Road Pueblo CO 81006
Easy Country living in Pueblo Colorado, close to town, a relaxed setting with farm fields front & back. An exceptional floor plan with abundant features:
2.79 acres
3 car attached garage + 4 car detached garage (7 total)
main floor living
vaulted ceiling
high speed internet
gas fireplace
master suite w/ walk in closet
finished basement w/ bath
extra wide doorways
drip system for the 30+ trees
chicken coop included!
The front room could be a converted into an additional bedroom, that would make 5 bedrooms.
Custom water feature next to the covered patio
Live on The St. Charles Mesa!
More pictures: http://www.realestatecoloradostyle.com/29206-iris-road-pueblo-co-81006
DIRECTIONS: From I#25 Runyon Field exit to US-50 BUS E(Santa Fe Dr drive) 3.5 mi turn right onto 29th Ln then 1/2 mi then turn left onto Iris Rd / House will be on the right 0.1 mi
Contact Dena Stevens Century 21 Canon Land & Investment (719)369-9087 to buy or sell your Southern Colorado property.
see additional photos below
PROPERTY FEATURES
- Central A/C
- Fireplace
- High/Vaulted ceiling
- Walk-in closet
- Tile floor
- Living room
- Bonus/Rec room
- Office/Den
- Laundry area - inside
- Yard
ADDITIONAL PHOTOS
Photo 1
Photo 2
Contact info:
Dena Stevens
Century 21 Canon Land & Inv
230500914
(719) 369-9087
For sale by agent/broker
Equal Opportunity Housing
Posted: Dec 11, 2011, 7:50pm PST
Information Herein Deemed Reliable but Not Guaranteed
All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Dena Stevens, and may not be used without the expressed consent. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2004-2011. Dena Stevens Realtor 719 369-9087.
Sellers are always sure that the tiniest detail in their house is going to help sell the property. Sellers are proudly showing off drawer pulls, ceiling fans, a blooming bush or other details of special attention. Think about it, have you ever purchased a house because of the decorative shelf in a bedroom? Probably not.
Details help impress potential buyers, not always in a good way. What if the buyer doesn’t want to do yard work? That blooming rose bush isn’t going to impress them at all. And all you are telling your potential buyers is that you are overly attached to the property. And your agent isn’t impressed either.
The bottom line is the bottom line. Door knobs, ceiling fans, drawer pulls and fancy shelves might help attach attention to the property but they aren’t going to make it sell any faster and guest what? These details aren’t going to make the house appraise higher.
Advice to sellers: Keep the house clean down to the corners of every room and up to the top of the vaulted ceilings. Change out the furnace filters, clean the gutters and maintain the property.
One of my first employing brokers use to tell me that there is a buyer for every house. But let’s face it patience is required. Buyers have A LOT more to choice from right now and money is tight.
Please contact Dena Stevens (719) 369-9087 to buy or sell property in Fremont County, Canon City, Florence or Penrose.
Information Herein Deemed Reliable but Not Guaranteed
All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Dena Stevens, and may not be used without the expressed consent. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2004-2011. Dena Stevens Realtor 719 369-9087.
Disclaimer: ActiveRain Corp. does not necessarily endorse the real estate agents, loan officers and brokers listed on this site. These real estate profiles, blogs and blog entries are provided here as a courtesy to our visitors to help them make an informed decision when buying or selling a house. ActiveRain Corp. takes no responsibility for the content in these profiles, that are written by the members of this community.
And that when you decided to write an offer on my short sale listing that you determined that 
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