Durango Colorado Real Estate Blog

Dalton Ranch Golf Course Community in Durango, CO

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 10:52:59 -0700

It's green in summer, gold in fall and white in winter- Dalton Ranch golf course just minutes north of Duango, Colorado. Our neighborhood has several components, from easy-living condominiums to larger townhomes, family homes, upscale condominiums and luxury homes. There are just a few lots available if building your own home is your dream, and most have great views. One thing that broudht me to this goldf course community 14f years ago was the view- like one of my visiting friends said "Every window is a postcard." She's right- and that is one reason I am still here, enjoying every day in the middle of one of the most scenic river valleys in Colorado.

Wildlife watching and people watching are great spectator sports when you tire of golf, tennis, hiking, biking, river rafting, etc. that are all available nearby. For families, it is close to a great elementary school, Animas Valley Elementary, and the supermarket is within a mile. The golf course has special membership packages right now, and the restaurant is open year round, even when snow covers the course and offers great snowshoeing or cross-country skiing! If you're interested in Dalton Ranch housing, contact me at marlene@horizondurango.com for the latest real estate update.

See www.daltonranch.com

LAND FOR SALE IN DURANGO COLORADO

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 10:46:23 -0700

YES, our land inventory is plentiful, and pricing has never been better! You can get great deals on everything from 1/4 acre lots to large ranches, from mountain property to high desert with big mountain views. Rivers? Ponds? Yes, available! Here are a few examples and see the details, and many more available at www.durangocoloradoproperty.net

Elkridge- Valley view lot right in town Edgemont Ranch-Nature's finest

TWO WAYS TO GET THERE- TROUT LAKE, SW COLORADO

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 16:34:16 -0700

Gone hiking yet this summer? If you visit Durango, Colorado area and enjoy summer outdoor activities, there are great hikes for all ages and abilities. One I discovered was a cool (literally- over 9,500 feet elevation) hike out of the Silverton area that takes you over a pass to see the majestic beauty of Trout Lake. Trout Lake is surrounded by tall peaks, and is home to a lucky few dozen summer retreats.

That was last year--this year I cheated and walked an easy trail from the Matterhorn Campground near Telluride to Trout Lake, where I snapped a few quick pics with the phone (ever present, like a tether). Enjoy- and maybe you'll get to visit this little Southwest Colorado lake in the future! Bring your fishin' gear!

Real Estate Market Statistics Update for Durango, Colorado-June 10, 2010

Wed, 09 Jun 2010 10:29:12 -0700

What's been selling in Durango, Colorado real estate these days? Typically, summer is our "hot" selling season, but activity has improved from the first and second quarters last year, due to many purchasers taking advantage of the home buyer's tax credit. By June 30, this influence should end as the last of these properties close.

Looking at our MLS generated statistics, the number of Durango in town properties sold increased by 18%, and the average price was down 15% from this time last year. Properties categorized as "Durango Rural" increased in sales by 23%, with a 51% average price increase. This seems to contradict the trend, but in reality, rural properties often are large, and have more acreage, therefore, have higher pricing structures overall. Rural property bargains are readily available and homebuyers have been shopping, and buying those that present good value. This summer, we do expect to see more movement in this market segment.

Looking at Land sales for the same time period, the same number of properties sold as this time period last year, with a 64% drop in average price. With just a few properties to consider, this only means that the lower-priced lots sold. Land sales classified as Durango Rural were down 5% for the same period with a price decrease of 9%. Land sales usually peak in summer and fall here in Durango, so we look for an increase in sales in this segment as well.

If you'd like more specific information, contact me at marlene@horizondurango.com, and visit my website at www.durangocoloradoproperty.net

Best Burger Recipe to Kick Off Summer

Thu, 20 May 2010 10:35:36 -0700

Its been a cool and windy spring out west, but, Memorial Day is just a week away. With Memorial Day comes summer and the height of the griliing season, and I recently was given a great burger recipe.

We all have favorite ways to make burgers, and one thing we have abundant here in Durango Colorado is plenty of organically raised beef. An article in today's Durango Herald (www.durangoherald.com) states that Colorado has the highest percentage of organic meat. Yay, us! It really is tasty- and we are lucky to have several ranches that sell a variety of organically-raised meats at our Saturday Durango Farmers Market. Check it out- Saturdays at the First National Bank, 8-noon (or a bit later).

Now here's that burger recipe- Happy Grilling!

Black ‘n Blue Burgers

Ingredients

CAJUN SEASONING BLEND:

o 3 tablespoons ground cumin

o 3 tablespoons dried oregano

o 1 tablespoon garlic powder

o 1 tablespoon paprika

o 2 teaspoons salt

o 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

o (or you can use a store bought Cajun or blackened seasoning)

BURGERS:

o 1 pound ground beef

o ¼ cup finely chopped onion (optional)

o 1 teaspoon salt

o ½ teaspoon ground pepper

o 1 teaspoon Cajun Seasoning Blend (recipe above)

o ½ to 1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce

o ½ teaspoon Worsteshire sauce

o 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)

o 4 hamburger buns

o Crumbled blue cheese

o Extra Cajun seasoning for coating of burgers (optional)

Directions

· Combine all seasoning blend ingredients in a small bowl or a zip lock plastic bag; mix well.

· In a bowl, combine the first eight burger ingredients; shape into four patties. Cook on a grill over medium-hot heat for 4-5 minutes per side or until burgers reach desired doneness.

· Place burgers on baking sheet and place blue cheese on top of each burger. Place in oven under broiler for ONE minute.

· Serve on toasted buns (if you'd like) and ENJOY!!!

Durango Colorado PIE AUCTION!

Wed, 19 May 2010 19:39:09 -0700

PIE, PIE, PIE, who doesn't like pie? Ever heard of a pie auction? Before moving to Durango, Colorado almost 14 years ago, I had not. Then notices in the local Durango Herald newspaper would pop up every now and then about somebody's fundraiser, and it would include "pie auction".

Well, I soon learned that this very traditional rural American way of raising money for churches, schools, and neighbors with needs could be very effective. I went to an event hosted for a woman with breast cancer, and was amazed to see all the excitement around the pie auction part of the day. People milled around the tables, talked about the bakers and their entries, and speculated on who wanted which pies. Was I surprised at the bidding! Not $10, or $20 or even $50- NO! Each and every pie went for OVER $100! Needless to say- fundraising success.

So, the Durango Area Association of Realtors, that I wrote about last week, is including a pie auction to raise funds for our local high school senior scholarship and community organization donation fund. SO COME ON DOWN- JUNE 10 to Rotary Park - and BRING YOUR WALLET to buy some PIE! and CAKE! - we included the cakes for those of us who couldn't make a crust if our life depended on it.---Donations gratefully accepted- contact me at marlene@horizondurango.com!

Durango, Colorado Golf Just Got Cheaper!

Tue, 18 May 2010 11:56:35 -0700

Like many things in today's economy, golfing is a hobby that can cost more than you'd like. Two of Durango's local courses, the semi-private Dalton Ranch Golf Club, and the private Glacier Club, just came up with remedies for the "golf's expensive" blues.

The 18-hole Dalton Ranch Golf Course is now featuring a special membership at $10,000 initiation fee- with financing available. Dalton is home to a winter elk herd, as well as deer, fox, coyotes and bald eagles as it runs along the Animas River. Scenery is spectacular with towering red cliffs providing contrast to the lush green course, old cottonwood trees, many ponds (aka "water hazards") and clear, blue Colorado sky. With its many bunkers and sand "lakes"- not traps, too big! Dalton remains a challenge no matter how often one plays. And, its a great walk or ride through one of our most scenic river valleys. See www.daltonranchgolfclub.com for information.

The Glacier Club is 10 minutes north of Dalton Ranch and has been re-developed as a private second-home community. Tamarron resort, the lodge and condominium buildings of which provide many folks with second homes and vacation lodging, is part of the complex. The Glacier Club currently features a 27-hole mountain course with sloping fairways, blind drives, and an actual "target shoot" off a cliff-top tee box. Glacier Club now provides a special low-priced golf membership for Tamarron owners, as well as one for the general public. As this program varies, contact me at marlene@horizondurango.com for specific information!

Eagle visits Durango, Colorado at Dalton Ranch Golf Course

Mon, 03 May 2010 14:45:50 -0700

WE GET USED TO SEEING BALD EAGLES around here- generally sitting in tall trees, or flying. This is the first time I saw a bald eagle walking- and he walked a good deal of the fairway on hole #13 at Dalton Ranch Golf Course. He or she is a younger eagle, not really black, but dark brownish with fluffy white head, foot and tail feathers. Large and not afraid of anything, this eagle watched birds at the bird feeder, then strolled down the cart path to visit one of Dalton's many infamous water hazards, aka, a pond. He stayed for a while, then flew off when the groundskeeper rounded the bend in his cart. Glad I was working at home that morning and caught sight of him!

Durango, Colorado Realtors Give Back!

Mon, 03 May 2010 14:21:11 -0700

Durango, Colorado has felt the downturn like everywhere else, and that means that money to support community services is needed even more. Every year, DAAR, the Durango Area Association of Realtors, has held a big golf tournament that funds our Scholarship Fund and grants to a list of Human Services agencies that help many community members better their lives.

This year, no golf tournament- due to a "limp" market impact on many Realtors and affilites. So, we decided to throw a Party in the Park instead. This event will be a spring picnic, complete with food, drink, fun games for all ages, and listening and dancing to music by a great local band (tbd at time of publishing). In Fall,we will have another event, and hopefully these 2 can provide our local agencies such as the Women's Resource Center, the Durango Foundation for Educational Excellence, The Safehouse and others with much needed CASH!

And, to make the most of everyone's accelerating schedules, the event is JUNE 10- at the VFW HALL and Rotary Park. VISITORS AND LOCALS ALIKE ARE WELCOME! Check back for more details as we finalize the band, menu and events!

Durango, Colorado Real Estate- Resort Living at Tamarron

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 13:14:08 -0700

Looking for easy living while on vacation- or want a simple, maintenance free lifestyle year round? Whether vacation, retiring, or making a life in Durango, Colorado, Tamarron can be the place for you. Recent exterior renovations make the complex up-to-date and attractive for vacations and vacation rentals. If you want a second home, and some help with the payments, Tamarron units have a proven rental history for summer travelers as well as skiers. The onsite amenities of the main lodge and spa include pool, health club facilities, and all exterior and common area maintenance. New golf course membership programs put the scenic, challenging 18 hole course at the Glacier Club within reach for all Tamarron owners. Nearby Durango Mountain Resort boasts winter sports fun, and skiing for the whole family. And, the San Juan Mountains, just 20 minutes away, offer hiking, snowshoeing, riding, fishing and biking. Look into Tamarron today; www.durangocoloradoproperty.net.

High End Sales- Durango, CO September, 2009

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 11:56:37 -0700

WOW! Its been slow slogging in the higher end market here, but all of a sudden, things are starting to move. Homes on the market for over $1million began to SELL- really! Shocking? At first, and then we look at some of the real, steal deals that can be bought. Builders and home owners alike, feeling the credit, money, activity lag, have reduced prices providing those in the Durango, Colorado luxury home market with some great opportunities. For example, one home that originally appraised for over $3 million sold for just about half that! Had to be the deal of the year- right? A few more have sold for $300-$500k below their original asking prices, and a few more large deals, at great prices, are in the works.

What does this mean for the market? Those with cash, or ability to get good loans, are stepping up and bargain shopping. We already know that the market's lower end, here under $300k, has been active all year long, but now, the upper end is starting to percolate. And, surprisingly, our resort area market has seen steady sales this summer- not huge volumes. but steady activity. Does that mean...that maybe, soon, a turn-around? No telling, but the sky just seems a bit brighter these days.

Durango, Colorado Land- How to buy it?

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 08:40:44 -0700

Many people have a dream of owning Durango, Colorado real estate. Specifically, they want to create their vision of an ideal lifestyle, be it town, ranch, farm, or resort property. There are many things to consider when on the quest for land that will provide you with the ideal locale and atmosphere for all your pursuits, so we thought a brief discussion would be helpful.

Think first of what your goals are for the land? Do you want to build a home? When? Do you want to hold the land for investment? How long?

In Durango, few people who come from elsewhere want to build immediately. Usually the quest for the perfect land begins a few years out. Experience says that plans may change, so remaining flexible, and looking at a good "exit strategy" up front will help make your decision one you can live with in the longer term.

Features of the land itself help establish priorities: What type of views are desired? What about water-is it just for the home or do animals, fishing rights, etc. need to be considered? Are there children and pets? How close to town/city amenities is necessary? What about topography- meadows and grasslands? rolling hills? forest and trees? And, for riders, hunters, hikers and the like, is the parcel close to public lands?

Access to land parcels can vary as some Durango area properties have seasonal access, usually meaning snowmobile only in winter. Roads in rural areas are usually gravel, either County and maintained by same, or private, with Covenants covering their maintenance by the group of owners. So, type of road, ownership and maintenance, and the grade/distance one has to travel should all be weighed. With that said, there are many, many options out there for all types of Durango Land buyers.

(Are you making a checklist yet? It can be a good guide when looking online, or working with a broker to help find the right types of land.)

In the Durango area, ranch and recreational properties offering hunting, fishing, winter sports and rural lifestyle are located throughout La Plata County. Alpine climate with dense fir forests, aspens and close-up mountain views can be had in the North Animas Valley. Lots range in size from ¼ acre home sites, to many acre retreats. The Bayfield/Vallecito area is known for lush meadows, pines, and wide open views, with plenty of water. West Durango including Hersperus, can have big La Plata Mountain views, rolling pastures, creeks, and trees. South of Durango is a bit warmer and drier, with rolling grasslands, big mountain or valley views, and possible irrigation water.

No matter where the land is located, home sites are generally valued based on amenities, locale and aesthetics, such as views, water and infrastructure nearby.

Homesites vary from small lots in established subdivisions- town and rural- to 35+ acre parcels with roads and utilities. Acreage runs from small parcels to large 1,000 acre ranches. Ranch amenities vary greatly, and consulting a ranch sales expert can help target your search to what suits your needs.

In summary, owning land in Durango, Colorado offers you the opportunity to create your own vision and lifestyle, and can provide a lasting legacy for your family. Let us know what questions you have, I am at your service!

JUMBO LOANS - YES YOU CAN GET THEM IN DURANGO, COLORADO

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 17:52:22 -0800

ON THE FENCE ABOUT LOOKING FOR A HOME WITH A MORTGAGE OVER $417K? A LOT OF PEOPLE SHOPPING IN THE DURANGO, COLORADO AREA MIGHT EXPERIENCE ANGST OVER GETTING FINANCING FOR THE RETIREMENT HOME, RESORT HOME, or RANCH that they really would like to have. While Durango's real estate values have NOT cratered overall, there are great buys in all price categories, and many prime properties that are "great deals" that are over $500k. Why? Mountain resort towns don't have a lot of land left! Things built are in prime locations and become more desireable as the population expands; naturally, and by people moving into the area.

Right now, Durango's market has a lot of "pent up demand" from folks looking to move, but having to sell something first, or awaiting a cash payment from something before they buy. Looking at getting a good reak estate deal might mean acting sooner, versus later. I spoke to two local lenders that are ready and willing to lend to those who are

1. well qualified with jobs, documented income, and credit scores;

2. have a downpayment as required by the loan structure.

These lenders are making JUMBO LOANS,(either a single or two loans over $417k) with INTEREST RATES COMPETITIVE WITH CONFORMING LOANS. Yes, it can be done.

Many of the best buys in Durango and Bayfield Colorado areas are over $500k- so if this suits your needs and wallets, don't be afraid to look. For two prime examples, check out my listings at http://www.horizondurango.com/611979/customhome.html, and http://www.horizondurango.com/614589/countryfeel.html . You can contact me at marlene@horizondurango.com for more information

SNOWDOWN TIME IN DURANGO COLORADO -AGAIN!

Tue, 27 Jan 2009 17:30:08 -0800

Last year, I profiled Durango, Colorado's premier winter celebration, known as SNOWDOWN. Its that time again, and this year the theme couldn't be more appropriate - SNOWDOWN IN DA NILE! Yep, the whole town has great reasons to forget the economic crisis, the housing crisis, the job crisis- at least for 5 days of fun, wacky events, and overall good times. As co-coordinator for SNOWDOWN, I do a lot of work with our Team and Board all year long. But, most of the "heavy lifting" is done, and its time to celebrate the winter fest that puts us on the map of Colorado events, and brings us all together, SNOWDOWN.

Wednesday kicks off with the totally wacky Dos n Don'ts Fashion show- this year entitled "Queens of Da Nile". What you'll see is anyone's guess! Good weather is forecast for the entire 5-day run of SNOWDOWN, so people will be in the streets in their Ancient Egyptian, or "DA NILE" attire of choice.

See my Blog from Jan. 08 for a full history and description of SNOWDOWN, and come on to Durango, Colorado to have the best time ever in the heart of winter.

FALL COLORS IN DURANGO, CO

Fri, 10 Oct 2008 15:15:19 -0700

Its NOT TOO LATE! Fall is still brilliantly displayed here in Southerwest Colorado, in the high country and in the valleys, leaves are glowing golden, orange and even red. Yes, red, the color thought to belong to New England, is here, too. Last week we hiked the Purgatory Creek trail from Purgatory (Durango Mountain Resort) to the Cascade Wye, where the DSNGRR trains stop for lunch breaks on their shorter runs. It was stunning- absolutely breathtaking to walk among that special golden light that the shimmering, translucent aspen leaves give off. Especially now with the markets in turmoil, our souls can use some R&R, and reconnection with the joys and beauty of natural surroundings. I think our ability to walk out the door and escape into nature is one reason people in Durango seem less stressed by today's events. So come out, while fall is still bright, and let yourself be taken in by nature. You don't even have to hike, just drive, and stop, and look, and take plenty of pictures because the scenery will soon change - as will the present stressful conditions.

DURANGO COLORADO REAL ESTATE INVENTORY AUGUST,2008

Fri, 22 Aug 2008 10:10:35 -0700

"Come on down", as the game show host loves to say when initiating a deal. So it is in Durango, Colorado, this August. Come on down, we have a really good inventory at ALL PRICE LEVELS, and good deals can be had in any price range. Unlike larger areas, we do NOT have the proliferation of foreclosures and REOs. There are some, and it does look like we will have more of both types of properties by year end than we did last year. But, regular listings are priced more aggressively than the past few years. Individual properties may be as much as 10% lower in some cases. That may not seem like a lot when compared to price reductions in some stressed markets, but our values have always held up well, due to the desireable location. So, if you are thinking of getting a second home, or changing your address for something new in the Durango area, NOW IS THE TIME! For more specifics on good buys in Durango, email me - marlene@horizondurango.com or call 970/749-8913. And, have a great late summer!

2008 Durango, Colorado Market Statistics - so far

Thu, 28 Feb 2008 19:21:17 -0800

After hearing all the doom and gloom about the national real estate market, I was curious enough to look into our local market statistics. Thus far, we in the Durango area, are still selling property of all types. A quick look at year to date tells me that nearly 50% of properties sold were under $300,000 and about 25% were above $500,000. Commercial opportunities were just about 4% of those sold, while many residential units sold were condos. We've had a snowy winter, and lots of people visiting our local ski resort, Purgatory, have contributed to condo sales at the resort itself. But our market also has a good supply of lower-priced units in town Durango now, and these seem to be actively selling.

While no one knows how much impact the new Federal loan regulations will have over the year, we all are hopeful for an active spring and summer sales season. Meanwhile, our office is planning upgrades in marketing and services to help us work smarter in an ever-changing market. I look forward to being more efficient and hope it will also lead us to increasing our effectiveness in serving our clients - read: SALES!

Client Expectations - are they different in this market?

Thu, 07 Feb 2008 14:22:56 -0800

A short while ago, I posted a blog request looking for anecdotes about fellow Realtors being rewarded by their clients for "exceptional customer service". I am still interested in hearing from any of you who have a minute to share a tale about something you did that they, the client, really liked. But it also occurred to me that client expectations may be changing in the current market. What have you all seen that might prove this true, or not?

Are you being asked to do more for less commission? Have expectations of finding "bargains" greatly colored some thinking, and if so, what happens when you might not find the perfect place, at at half price? How about follow up service? i'm curious, and also want to open up a forum to talk about changes in clients' perceptions of what we do, and how we do it!

Email me at marlene@horizondurango.com Love to hear what you have to say. mg

Exceptional Customer Service - how do you know it when it happens?

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 13:47:38 -0800

I've been in business for over 25 years and have had a lot of opportunities to serve customers, handle irate customers, and have customers become friends. Looking at the past, though, doesn't always help convey what EXACTLY customers view as "exceptional service" from their real estate broker!

I'll be giving a short class in Durango, Colorado in a few weeks on the "Small WOWs" of customer service and wanted to gather some anecdotes from fellow practitioners on what things they have done that received the most customer appreciation.

Was it being a technical whiz and getting all those sundry bits of information together? Was it showing them the different income streams with various investment property options? Or was it bringing a big umbrella to a showing when it rained??? What expectations do clients have of us and how do we go about exceeding them?

I'll use these shared examples to help draw some comparisons between customer expectations in different areas of business, and I think we on the Active Rain network will have a good time reading them, too.

So, if you get a minute, share a thought about you, being rewarded for, EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE.

Thanks, and if others in the general audience want to contribute their ideas and experiences, please email me at marlene@horizondurango.com. I would love to hear from you! mg

Snowdown- Winter Festival in Durango, Colorado

Tue, 08 Jan 2008 11:49:39 -0800

Durango, Colorado's premier winter celebration turns 30 this year. Every January, we put away the holiday lights and start getting ready for SNOWDOWN. Born as a way to "promote fun, commerce and tourism" in the heart of winter, SNOWDOWN is a 5-day festival of wacky events hosted by businesses and groups throughout the community. Wednesday, Jan. 30 kicks off SNOWDOWN 2008 with the wildly funny "Dos and Dont's Fashion Show". The idea for the Show was born when USA Today mentioned that Durango was one of the "worst -dressed" towns in the country. A spoof on all things, the show is a sell-out and one of the funniest SNOWDOWN events. Over 60 events take place over the next 5 days. The hottest SNOWDOWN ticket is the FOLLIES (see www.snowdownfollies.org.) which involves over 100 locals spoofing it up for appreciative audiences. Friday's highlight is the SNOWDOWN Light Parade - where theme floats use lights and hot air balloons light up the cold night with warmth and colorful costumes. Costumes are a given at SNOWDOWN as each year has a theme. This year is YE OLDE SNOWDOWN, a thirty-year quest for fun. Expect to see kings, queens, knights, and plenty of jesters and knaves running around the snowy streets of Durango for SNOWDOWN lets our inner child come out and have FUN!

I am the Co-cordinator (coco2 for short) of SNOWDOWN, and have worked with a great team of people on planning and making SNOWDOWN happen for 7 years. I love it as it involves the whole community in something that is positive and provides fun for entire families, as well as promotes business in the doldrums of mid-winter. An increasing number of visitors now plan to make a trek to Durango for SNOWDOWN, and we love having them. If you're planning on coming, book your rooms early. And, for all the SNOWDOWN news, go to www.snowdown.org. See you at SNOWDOWN! mg- for specific questioins, contact me at coco2@snowdown.org.

Ski and Snow Report for Durango, Colorado

Wed, 12 Dec 2007 11:40:14 -0800

Did I really write about a warm November? Well winter arrived right on schedule here and do we have SNOW! Exactly where it is needed, too, as the warm systems created lower elevation rain that soaked the ground, made the plants happy in their dormant states, and prepped for snow coverage. In town, we have maybe 3-6 inches on the ground, more in surroundings, but in the higher elevations and at Durango Mountain Resort, there are new FEET of snow. Great to have a good base this early. Skiing the other day was fabulous and one avid 70-year old skier said, "It was almost too much snow for me." But, the resort staff will be grooming away as the mountain could be 100% open this weekend. That, after initially delaying the resort's opening day by two weeks, is such a treat for early season skiing. If you're planning on visiting, get your reservations now.

Not only are skiers, boarders and snow mobilers ecstatic, our small town economy gets a boost from winter tourism, so knowing that Christmas snow will be good makes everyone happy. Snow is great for the fields, the forests and our water supply of course, so if you come to Durango, look for smiles. Winter is here!

IS DURANGO THE PLACE FOR YOUR NEW HOME?

Tue, 27 Nov 2007 15:45:14 -0800

This month, I've had fun working with two buyers new to Durango, Colorado. Each had a different need - one to relocate to a place that would give children a more naturally-focused upbringing (Remember recent articles condirming that involvement with nature was good for kids on many levels? ) and the other to have a second home in a place close to skiing, camping, and all sorts of good outdoor fun. Well, Durango is the place for that, no doubt. But, in working with these different perspectives, some common elements came into play that would be helpful to anyone helping a client relocate or choose your community for their vacation home.

First, what do they really want to accomplish? Sometimes knowing the "why" vs just the stated facts, really helps you as an agent hone in on better property choices to show. Also, how serious are they in persuing their stated hobbies or interests? Here, we have a lot of "horse properties" that require serious attention to all the trappings that good horsemen and women want. If the client just wants a place that looks "horsey", that would be a whole different animal!

Next, what features of the property are really essential to them? That too can be tricky until several are seen and eliminated because they didn't "feel right". Getting to identify what that "fell right" is can take some probing, but is worth the "aaha!" experience for both of you. Another thing is to look at the needs of all involved- not just the buyers, but their families and others who may be considered in the purchase.

And, know when to bring in, dial in or email in outside assistance if your expertise doesn't stretch to cover brown trout habitat or slickrock bike trails. There's someone you know that can help, and may be a good secondary cheerleader for selling the client on your area as well. And, you get the benefit of bringing people who are a good fit and will contribute to your community.

Buyers on the Fence?

Mon, 19 Nov 2007 12:05:39 -0800

After a few recent showings, I've had similar conversations with brokers in my area - and it seems that we are all experience the "buyers on the fence" syndrome. Yeah, they like the property, but nothing seems to motivate them enought to jump in and make an offer. Waiting for whatever - prices to crash, the loan market to open up, or just til they feel more comfortable is the school of thought. Luckily, we have savvy buyers who do know its time to buy, and those are the folks with cash reserves, or who are ready to invest. Just wondering if other parts of our world are hearing the same song from prospective buyers? Sign me Curious - mg

A gorgeous Fall in Durango, Colorado persists

Wed, 14 Nov 2007 15:00:17 -0800

Here it is mid-November and there are still trees in the Animas Valley ablaze with golden leaves. We aren't complaining, as the days have been sunny with temperatures in the 60s - much more like early October than November. While Dalton Ranch Golf Club (go to www.daltonranchgolfclub.com) is open 2 weeks later than normal and continues to have members play daily rounds, Durango Mountain Resort, our local ski area, isn't letting warm weather stop its plans to open Dec. 1. "A fleet of new snowmaking guns" is enabling the resort to make up to 50% more snow than last year, and be more energy efficient. Good news for those of us looking to put away sandals, golf clubs and other warm-weather activities and enjoy the snow, snow, snow! which we all know will come soon. Think big fluffy flakes, lots of them, coming down. Until that happens, if you plan a visit to Durango, the weather, and the climate for buying Durango, Colorado real estate, couldn't be better!

Wildfire Evacuation Stories

Wed, 24 Oct 2007 09:39:54 -0700

With horrified fascination, I continue to watch as southern California fires rage on. Watching homeowners emotionally scurry to pack themselves, their animals and their belongings for a fast evacuation, I think, "I was in your place, I know how scary it feels." Six years ago, the Missionary Ridge fire blew up right across the valley from my home in Durango, Colorado. For over a month, we watched as more towering Ponderosa pines went up like torches, after suffering from a few years of drought. Everyday brought reports of fire activity and our Animas Valley and town gagged on smoke and ash. A few weeks into it, a second fire erupted on the other side of the Valley, essentially walliing us in by flame. The second fire burned 10 homes in record time. Everyone made it out, some just barely, and with few possessions. Horse trailers, RVs, and trailered boats clogged highway 550 as evacuees headed to safe ground. Our neighborhood looked like a campground as all manner of trailers and RVs lined up to carry possessions out of the line of fire. Part of our neighborhood was evacuated, and some of us left because we could no longer stand the smoke, ash, and ceaseless "whup, whup" of tanker helicopters dipping into the ponds right by our homes and using the water to fight this second fire.

Those who were burned out lost everything, some not knowing what exactly was irreplaceable until later. But, all were thankful that no lives were lost, and the spirit of this small town in the mountains pulled people together to help the fire victims recover.

As you can tell, the experience is as sharp in my mind today as when it happened, and renewed by the tragic scenes in California. We have many Californians here who are concerned for friends and family, and we keep all in our prayers.