Brendan's Blog

Boulder CO. Among The Strongest U.S. Housing Markets

Brendan Winans -- Previews International (Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage) — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 08:11:30 -0600

Many U.S. markets that avoided the housing boom are now seeing the greatest growth in home values

"They're easy to overlook, with home prices plunging from Manhattan to Los Angeles and almost everywhere in between. But look at the smaller metros where housing bubbles never took shape, and you'll find some of today's strongest markets.

Boulder, Colo.; Fayetteville, N.C.; Pittsburgh; Little Rock; and other slow-but-steady metros are now among the nation's safest markets, and many of the homes in those markets continue to appreciate, if only modestly.

These are metro areas "where folks didn't bake 10% to 12% increases into their financial expectations," said Stan Humphries, chief economist at real estate site Zillow.com. "That was a good expectation to have."

Working with data from Zillow.com, BusinessWeek came up with the strongest housing markets by ranking metro areas based on the share of single-family homes in which values rose in the second quarter compared with the second quarter of 2008. In the top-ranked metro, Boulder, an affluent Denver suburb that is home of the University of Colorado at Boulder, 59.39% of homes appreciated during the past year, and the median home value rose 2.12% on a year-over-year basis.

No. 1: Beautiful Boulder Boulder was one of several college towns on the list, which also included a few military towns such as Fayetteville, N.C., and Jacksonville, N.C. Both government and university jobs have been relatively reliable during this recession. Affordability also seems to be a plus in this economy. Oklahoma City; Tulsa; Binghamton, N.Y.; Springfield, Ohio; Cumberland, Md.; and most other metros on the list have median home prices below $200,000 (some are under $100,000).

Boulder has several factors working in its favor. The town has controlled growth by putting limits on development and by acquiring more than 50,000 acres of open space for a greenbelt that surrounds the town. With the boundary of the Rocky Mountains to the west, the supply of new homes has been restricted.

Boulder's economy and housing market have slowed, but the University of Colorado provides jobs and a steady flow of tenants for the area's many rental homes. Demand for housing is also strong in part because the area is so pretty, said Tom Thibodeau, global real estate capital markets professor at the University of Colorado.

"Every year 5,000 undergraduates enter, and they don't want to leave when they graduate," Thibodeau said.

By Prashant Gopal"

Wait a second. At a time when real estate prices have been in almost perpetual free fall for more than a year, are there really places around the U.S. where home values are going up? Unbelievable as it may sound, yes. According to real estate site Zillow.com's second-quarter home value index, there are more than 30 metro areas across the country where values have risen from the first quarter of the year to the second quarter. The winner? Boulder, Colo., the affluent Denver suburb where the share of homes with increasing values rose nearly 60%.

Methodology: The metros are ranked by the share of homes with rising values in the second quarter compared with the second quarter of 2008. The annual change is the year-over-year change in median values for the metro in Q2 compared with the same period last year. The quarterly change compares the second quarter with the first quarter. The ranking is based on Zillow.com's Q2 Home Value Index, which is the median "Zestimate" for a given geography for a given time period. The Zestimate™ is Zillow's estimated market value of a home. This figure is computed by taking many different data points from public records and entering them in a proprietary formula.

Rank: 1

Metro: Boulder (Colo.) Share of homes with increasing values: 59.39% Median value: $347,200 Annual change: 2.12% Quarterly change: 3.86%

Boulder, about 35 miles northwest of Denver, has had a relatively stable housing market, in part, because it is home to strong employers, including the University of Colorado, as well as a base of affluent residents. The supply of homes is limited in Boulder by the mountains to the west and its tens of thousands of acres of protected open space.

For the article, please click HERE.

Superior Market Statistics

Brendan Winans -- Previews International (Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 17:21:59 -0600

As you can see the Superior CO. market has improved significantly. Sales when up, inventory went down, average DOM is relatively the same. Average sales price has jumped quite a bit.

If you or someone you know will be moving to Superior CO. in the near future, click here, or give me a call at (303) 829-7214.

*Statistics provided by Land Title Guarantee Company.

Brendan P. Winans

Brendan P. Winans | Broker Associate

REALTOR ® CNE CNAS

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

P | 303.829.7214

F | 303.379.4083

This Momentous Day In History.

Brendan Winans -- Previews International (Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:38:34 -0600

This Momentous Day In History.

This will be a very short blog.

On this very day in history, November 6th, 1860. Abraham Lincoln, our 16th President of the United States of America was elected.

Today, November 6th, 2009 -- Our President Barack Obama, signed a bill that will have a dramatic effect on the real estate market, as well as the U.S. economy. One of many substantial acts he has made since becoming the first African American President of the United States of America.

To me this is, at the very least, incredibly inspiring.

There is nothing that we as human beings cannot overcome, let that never be overlooked.

Your thoughts would be appreciated.

Be well,

Brendan Winans

It's official, President JUST signed the extension/expansion. Here are the changes you need to know!

Brendan Winans -- Previews International (Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 13:39:50 -0600

Well, it is now officially in effect! President Obama just signed the extension/expansion of the $8,000 credit for first time home buyers, and now for move up buyers as well. Below you will find a chart with the old bill contrasted by the new bill, so that you may see the changes that are now in effect.

*Chart was provided by National Association of Realtors.

Search Cherry Hills Village Real Estate.

Brendan Winans -- Previews International (Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 13:32:18 -0600

Search Cherry Hills Village, Colorado Real Estate

Click the link below to search homes in Cherry Hills Village Colorado, or to register to receive updates such as new listings to the market that meet your requirements!

Brendan P. Winans

Brendan P. Winans | Broker Associate

REALTOR ® CNE CNAS

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

P | 303.829.7214

F | 303.379.4083

Tax Credit Extension is Imminent!

Brendan Winans -- Previews International (Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 13:20:28 -0600

The Senate has voted last night (11/4) to extend and expand a popular tax credit for homebuyers that was scheduled to expire Nov. 30. The House is expected to schedule a quick vote on the bill as early as today 11/5 as part of a package that also extends unemployment benefits for people out of work more than a year. The White House indicated that the President will sign the legislation.

How the homebuyer tax credit would work:

· Tax credit: Ten percent of the purchase price of a primary residence, up to a maximum of $8,000 for first-time homebuyers and $6,500 for repeat buyers who purchase between December 1, 2009 and May 1, 2010. First-time homebuyers are defined as people who have not owned a home in the previous three years. Repeat buyers must have owned their current home at least five years. The credit cannot be used for houses costing more than $800,000.

· Deadline for qualifying: Purchase agreements must be signed by April 30, 2010, and closings must be final by June 30.

· Military deadline: The deadline is extended by a year for members of the military who have served outside the U.S. for at least 90 days from Jan. 1, 2009, to May 1, 2010.

· Income limits: Individuals with annual incomes up to $125,000 and joint filers with incomes up to $225,000 qualify for the full credit. Individuals with incomes up to $145,000 and joint filers with incomes up to $245,000 qualify for reduced credits.

· How to apply: Taxpayers can claim the credit on their federal income tax returns. If the credit exceeds their tax bill, the government will issue a payment. Taxpayers who want immediate refunds can amend their tax returns for 2008 to claim the credit.

· New anti-fraud limitations imposed.

· Cost: $10.8 billion.

Source: Bloomberg Press and Associated Press and confirmed information with the content of the Senate bill

Search Boulder Colorado Real Estate

Brendan Winans -- Previews International (Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 10:55:00 -0600

Search Boulder Colorado Real Estate

Click the link below to search homes in Boulder Colorado, or to register to receive updates such as new listings to the market that meet your requirements!

Brendan P. Winans

Brendan P. Winans | Broker Associate

REALTOR ® CNE CNAS

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

P | 303.829.7214

F | 303.379.4083

Boulder Colorado Certified Negotiation Expert.

Brendan Winans -- Previews International (Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 08:52:47 -0600

Brendan Winans Receives New Certified Negotiation Expert Designation

Real estate negotiation skills are a must for all home buyers/sellers,

especially in the current market.

Brendan Winans has been awarded the Certified Negotiation Expert (CNE) designation, achieved by real estate professionals who have successfully completed formal training in the art of negotiation. Agents who receive this certification are in the top 1% of all agents nationally.

With Professional negotiation skills, agents will typically obtain better results for their clients. CNE agents have a powerful competitive edge because of their ability to uncover information effectively, get more and give less during sales/purchase negotiations, and retain control over desired outcomes. Bottom line, CNE agents know how to influence and persuade others more effectively than agents without professional negotiation training.

The certification training is provided by Negotiation Expertise, LLC, a national negotiation training and coaching company based in Peoria, AZ. Tom Hayman, the President and owner, is a professional negotiator with 35+ year's experience, including 25 years with Procter and Gamble, a Fortune 50 company. Hayman asserts "Any Buyer or Seller who hires a CNE agent can feel confident that they have the best trained agent in the business. They will get superior results and have better resolution of any issues when hiring a CNE agent."

As your Boulder County specialist, Brendan Winans will assist you in finding the ideal property, or in selling your current. You can be assured that Brendan Winans will negotiate, on your behalf, the best price and terms for the purchase or sale of your Boulder County property.

Brendan P. Winans

Brendan P. Winans | Broker Associate

REALTOR ® CNE CNAS

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

P | 303.829.7214

F | 303.379.4083

I once was lost, a twitterless fool...

Brendan Winans -- Previews International (Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 11:23:28 -0600

... But now I'm found, and with more exposure than ever!

I'm going to keep this one short and tweet.... I mean sweet...

It's not like I wasn't a believer before, it's just that I never took the time to try it out and I really just didn't see the "how" in Twitter's success. It wasn't until I read one of Steve Schwartz's many blogs on the advantages (and how to's) of using Twitter, that I decided to give it a try.

It was fun at first, but I didn't know if it was "working" just yet. I wanted to find a way to SEE it work.

So I thought, "how do I track how it works?". I decided to post a tweet on one of my blogs, with a link to it. I'd track the hits via Active Rain. I kid you not, every time I post a link to one of my blogs, the hits go up by about 10-20 almost instantaneously! AND, no matter how many times I do this throughout the day, the results stay relatively consistent! This got me excited, and this is just ONE example of ONE avenue of the benefits to using Twitter.

Needless to say, I'm no expert just yet, but I'm definitely an 'on fire' believer! I'm so excited to start my Twitter journey!

What are some of your guys' success stories?

Brendan P. Winans

Brendan P. Winans | Broker Associate

REALTOR ® CNE CNAS

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

P | 303.829.7214

F | 303.379.4083

Make up your mind before my brain explodes! (a client's conflict)

Brendan Winans -- Previews International (Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage) — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 11:41:37 -0600

Make up your mind before my brain explodes! (a client's conflict)

Hi, my name is Joe Client and here is my struggle...

Dear Realtors,

I read your blogs all the time, you guys tell me that the market is doing much better and that I should buy (and that I should use you to buy)...

... But then I read your blogs to each other, and you talk about how bad it is and that it might get worse.

GET YOUR STORY STRAIGHT!

I logged on to CNN to read what they have to say about the issues (because obviously my local "experts" have their own agenda). Even THEY are conflicted. In the real estate section of CNN Money, there are articles entitled "Home prices continue rebound" and "Home prices: About to get much cheaper" or what about "Home sales rebound to highest level in 2 years" and "3 signs of the next real estate collapse"... It's as if you have 'Multiple personalities'!

If all you are going to do, is regurgitate the media's 'flavor of the week'... Do me a favor, and stop passing yourself as an expert!

I'm not mad at you, I'm just frustrated...

So why don't you go to your office and think about what you've done... call me when you know that you know what you're talking about...

Regards,

Joe Client

Brendan P. Winans

Brendan P. Winans | Broker Associate

REALTOR ® CNE CNAS

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

P | 303.829.7214

F | 303.379.4083

Moving to Superior, CO? Here is your online resource for everything Superior!

Brendan Winans -- Previews International (Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 18:02:12 -0500

Superior, CO. 80027.

First and foremost, if you are considering a move to, or are being relocated to Superior Colorado, I want to start by saying 'Welcome!'. I love this town very much, which is why I live here. More importantly, I love helping people buy and sell their homes here in Superior. So much is available to those who live here, the amenities are endless.

Superior was rated the 24th best place in the U.S. for young and wealthy individuals (CNN Money Mag), albeit a silly title, it does tell you something about the economy within Superior. A large majority of Superior consists of professionals, as a result, the town's economy has proven to be... well... superior!

Click Here For The Article.

Superior, CO. Also shares a zip code (80027) with Louisville, CO. Which was rated the number one best place to live!

Click Here For The Article.

Lets start with schools.

Choosing a school for your loved ones is an incredibly important decision, and can be quite stressful. You have several choices when it comes to schools in Superior. Superior is a part of the Boulder Valley School District.

Preschool -- Primrose

Elementary -- Superior Elementary

K-8 -- Eldorado K-8 (John Irwin School of Excellence)

High School -- Monarch High School

The Superior Real Estate Market.

If you are going to move to Superior, you are going to need a place to live (duh). Because the demographics consists primarily of professional individuals, the Superior real estate market has maintained a low supply, and a reasonably high demand. This has allowed for property values to remain quite stable in comparison to the remainder of the U.S. (not hitting incredible lows). Along with the stable home prices, the average days on market (DOM) is something to be coveted by other markets. My listings have sold, on average, in about 25-35 days. The overall average DOM remains about 55-65 days (about half the average DOM seen across the U.S.)

The Superior Real Estate market consists of Condominiums ranging from $120K-700K

As well as Single Family Homes ranging from $270K-1M and higher.

There are currently 50 homes for sale, and 30 Condo units for sale.

If you would like to search through the Superior listings, you can do so at my website: www.Luxury-Colorado.com under the "Properties" tab.

Convenience In Location.

As the adage goes -- "Location Location Location". You cannot find a more 'Prime' location in Colorado. Restaurants ranging from 'Fine Dining' to 'Fast food', shopping at one of the best malls in CO. (Flatiron Crossing), 10 minutes from Boulder, 20 minutes from Denver, Costco, Whole Foods, Super Target, Super Walmart... the list goes on. Convenience is abundant here in Superior.

As a resident and a Realtor in Superior, I would love to help you in the purchase or sale of your home, as well as answer any other questions you may have. If you are considering a move to Superior, CO. or any of the surrounding cities, please call Brendan Winans at (303) 829-7214.

Brendan P. Winans

Brendan P. Winans | Broker Associate

REALTOR ® CNE CNAS

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

P | 303.829.7214

F | 303.379.4083

It's cold outside, so you should stop selling real estate...

Brendan Winans -- Previews International (Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 15:51:00 -0500

It's cold outside, so you should stop selling real estate...

That's right, it's that time of year again where we blame a lack of business on climate change... Because we all know that temperature is what drives the Real Estate market (obviously). It certainly has nothing to do with the fact that you stopped your marketing pieces back in September, or stopped calling all of your past clients... No no no, it has to be the leaves that are blowing around on the ground... yeah, that's it! Ha ha ha! Ok, sarcasm gets old, I know.

My objective, really, is to point out that so much of our results has to do with our attitude and our actions. It's a funny thing to watch the same agents, every single year, stop their marketing, stop calling, stop everything but breathing right around the fall time! And why do they do this? Because "business dies around this time". What happens when they do this? Their business dies until they pick it back up again, but they continue to blame it on the seasons and the weather (really?). Those of us who maintain our networking and marketing, maintain a steady flow of business, some even see an uptick because so many agents drop out of the game and into hibernation.

As human beings, we are too quick to play the blame game, if it's not the market that's effecting our business, it's the weather and so on. When it comes down to it, people need to buy and sell when it's warm, people need to buy and sell when it's cold, people need to buy and sell in an up market, and people still need to buy and sell in a down market. My question to you is, how are you reaching out to help those people?

Brendan P. Winans

Brendan P. Winans | Broker Associate

REALTOR ® CNE CNAS

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

P | 303.829.7214

F | 303.379.4083

The $8,000K Tax Credit... Is it really going to be extended?

Brendan Winans -- Previews International (Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage) — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 14:48:31 -0500

There is much speculation as to whether or not the decision has already been made, and the government is just holding off on the announcement in order to create a surge of buyers.

Although I hope that it gets extended and expanded to everyone, I really think that we would've known by now, regardless of whether or not they've announced it.

Look, we all know the government isn't very good at keeping secrets. If they had decided to extend, there would've been a leak to the press, and a press conference to say that it was all a 'rumor'.

As of right now, it's as if the government is clueless to the subject. I'm just saying, I hope it does get extended, but I wouldn't bet money on it.

Therefor, if you're a first time buyer that is looking to take advantage of this credit. You have maybe a week to get under contract. Now is not the time to dilly dally.

Brendan P. Winans

Brendan P. Winans | Broker Associate

REALTOR ® CNE CNAS

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

P | 303.829.7214

F | 303.379.4083

Maybe the blind can see . . .

Brendan Winans -- Previews International (Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage) — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 18:17:51 -0500

Superb advice to all agents.

Via John MacArthur Branch Manager (Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.):

Old story........drunk man sitting by the curb....dog walks up and sits next to him..............dog says........boy, you sure look terrible. drunk and sitting on the curb in your underwear. .... man never lifts his head...just belches and mumbles........if you think I look bad, you should see it from my side of these bloodshot eyes.

Before humor became misogynistic and bawdy, this sort of story caused a chuckle. There is a great deal of truth in stories like this. We are all usually very guilty of seeing the world and everyone and everything in it from our own perspective. We are apt to claim.......how else can we see things.

Step back...........yes, you see things from your own perspective but don't you think that your current state of mind naturally limits your focus. Isn't it possible that your current place creates your immediate reaction and all the experiences locked away in your memory stay hidden?

Empathy is never immediate. By its very nature it is the opposite of the Darwinian need to survive. It calls on each of us to set aside our perception of right and wrong and what may or may not be fair or proper. It requires that we follow another old adage....

"before you judge a man, walk a mile in his shoes"

How many times have we sat at a listing appointment and been prepared and had all the data about market trends and recent sales. We have had a bag full of graphs. We have been prepared to refute all arguments about price. We have sat and carefully gone over the data.

Then the seller has calmly looked at us and said........"I think we can get more" or any other of the thousand responses that mean "I am not accepting what you have presented".

Stunned ! We scramble and re-do the highlights. We go through the salient points of the presentation. We have the facts and we reinforce our argument. We are the expert here!

Often, we either take the listing at the price the seller wants with hopes of reducing it when traffic does not exist and offers fail to appear. We slink off knowing that we are right and "By God, the market will prove it!"

Come on folks, that is not representation. It may take a bit more time, but effective representation requires that you gain some knowledge about the process from your client's perspective. Fiduciary responsibility is not another term for Agent knows best.

It may surprise you, but getting the listing is not the goal. Your goal is to listen and understand the situation from the client's perspective. You job is to grasp the situation from the client's viewpoint. When you fully understand their position, then and only then can you determine if you can provide a service that will be beneficial to them.

Each and every seller deserves your full attention. Your ethics require that you put their interest first. In a way, you are admonished to put on their shoes for a bit and understand. Then proceed.

Please don't get caught up in the "I don't do this for free" or the "I have to charge a certain fee to do my job.". There is nothing here that precludes your being paid for the service your perform. If a client can not pay you what you desire........walk away. Accepting a listing that is over priced and putting time and effort into a home that will not sell at that price is very much like working for free.

You earn money performing a service. Fact finding is where you determine the situation and see if you can be of assistance. If you slow down and truly empathize with customers........you will find you end up with more happy clients and closed transactions.

Take a clue from the blind.........learn to listen with all your senses. You will be better and the world will be better served.

Denver SSE Statistics.

Brendan Winans -- Previews International (Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage) — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 23:30:04 -0500

Below you will find the most recent Denver SSE statistics. Although presenting some less than impressive figures, there are several positive aspects to be seen here. Inventory is down over 12% since last year, and prices appear to be stabilizing and beginning to rise. These are positive traits.

If you have any questions about your specific Colorado market, please don't hesitate to give me a call at (303) 829-7214.

Brendan P. Winans | Broker Associate

REALTOR ® CNE CNAS

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

P | 303.829.7214

F | 303.379.4083

New Housing Bill Will Force Loan Modification

Brendan Winans -- Previews International (Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage) — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 11:23:54 -0500

I hope this passes, banks have been imposing their will with no regards to real estate laws and regulations. There needs to be order.

Via Claudette Millette - Metrowest Mass Exclusive Buyer Broker (The Buyers' Counsel):

Four senators are putting their muscle behind a new housing bill intended to prohibit lenders operating in the U.S. from foreclosing on home owners without first having discussed reasonable modification options with the borrowers.

The bill, called the Preserving Homes and Communities Act is being sponsored by Rhode Island Senator Jack Reed, Illinois Senator Dick Durbin, Jeff Merkley of Oregon and Sheldon Whitehouse of Rhode Island.

Under this bill, lenders will be forced to the negotiating table under the threat of stiff fines and other legal penalties.

All lenders will be required to perform what the bill terms as a "net present value" test for all seriously delinquent borrowers. The test would be a financial analysis weighing the benefits of a modification of loan terms against the benefits of foreclosure.

For borrowers who do not fit into this program, the bill would create a multi-billion national fund for states to make loans or grants in order to prevent foreclosures.

The senators' rationale behind the creation of this bill is that they are frustrated with the slow pace of current loan modification programs and feel that they are not keeping up with the record numbers of foreclosures this year.

"Voluntary efforts to keep families in their homes have failed," said Durbin. "This bill will force lenders to modify qualified mortgages rather than letting them move quickly to foreclosure, which destroys households and neighborhoods."

The act will also set up a mortgage payment assistance program to provide money to state housing agencies to assist people who have lost income and face the prospect of foreclosure.

The most significant aspect of this bill would be to create "mandatory mediation" requirements forcing lenders to allow some mediation efforts between them and their borrowers before being able to file foreclosures against home owners.

This proposal will, no doubt, be met with opposition by banking and mortgage lending groups. It is, however, currently favored to be supported in the House.

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624 Pearl St. SOLD IN 20 DAYS

Brendan Winans -- Previews International (Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage) — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 20:27:41 -0500

Featuring: 624 Pearl St. Boulder CO.

Sold Price -- $640,000

Days spent on market -- 20

Sorry guys, I sold this one before I could even get any ads to you! If you know of anyone looking to buy or sell in the Boulder market, let me know. I would love to get the same results for them!

Take a look, let me know what you think!

www.624pearl.com

This property was sold by Brendan Winans of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage.

If you, or someone you know, are looking to buy or sell in Colorado, give Brendan a call.

Brendan Winans

Brendan Winans | Broker Associate

REALTOR ® CNE CNAS

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

P | 303.829.7214

F | 303.379.4083

Denver Metro Area Luxury Home Sales Dip in July, But High-End Properties Selling Faster, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Reports

Brendan Winans -- Previews International (Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage) — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 11:55:53 -0500

DENVER, Colo. - August 28, 2009 - Sales of million-dollar homes in the Denver metro area dipped in July and the median sale price also declined, but luxury properties sold at a faster pace than last month and a year ago, according to Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, Colorado's leading provider of luxury real estate services.

A total of 52 million-dollar homes changed hands in July, down from 65 in June and 91 in July 2008. The median sale price last month was $1.22 million, down from $1.38 million in June and $1.31 million a year ago. However, luxury properties spent just 83 days on the market before selling compared to 103 days in June and 107 days in July 2008.

"Sales and median prices have generally been improving across the board since early this year, but we obviously still have a ways to go before the market returns to normal," said Chris Mygatt, president of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Colorado. "The entry level has been rebounding and that improvement will eventually be felt in the upper end as well. But we need to work our way through the process."

Mygatt said the current market represents an outstanding opportunity for move-up buyers who may be outgrowing their existing home. Although they may not be able to get as much for their property as they could have at the peak a year or two ago, larger and more expensive homes have also seen proportionate price declines that could translate into bigger savings for buyers.

"If your current home has declined 15 percent from its peak of $500,000, then you may net $75,000 less when it comes time to sell," he said. "But at the same time, the move-up home you're considering probably has also dropped in value by 15 percent - if not more. So a home that was $800,000 at its peak, for instance, may be on sale for $680,000 or $120,000 less, putting you ahead of the game when you trade up. The math can actually work in your favor."

July's decline in sales and median prices in the luxury market is in line with the Denver metro area's overall housing market. MetroList, Denver's multiple listing service, announced earlier this month that sales last month dipped 13.3 percent from a year ago, while median sale prices in the region were down 3 percent from the previous month and flat versus July 2008.

Some key findings from this month's Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage luxury report:

The most expensive sale in the Denver metro area in July was a seven-bedroom, nine-bath home in Cherry Hills Village that sold for $6.3 million;
Denver boasted the most million-dollar sales with 21, followed by Boulder with 7;
It took an average of 83 days to sell a million-dollar home, down sharply from 103 days in June and 107 days a year ago;
Homes sold for an average of 87 percent of their asking price, the same as last month, but down from 91 percent a year ago;

The Denver Metro Area Luxury Home Report is produced by Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, a specialist in high-end real estate sales. Through its internationally renowned Coldwell Banker Previews® program, the company is recognized around the world for its expertise in the luxury housing market. The figures were derived from Multiple Listing Service data of all homes sold for more than $1 million.

About Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, a leading residential real estate brokerage company in Colorado, operates 14 offices with more than 1,180 sales associates serving the communities of the Denver area. Through its internationally renowned Coldwell Banker Previews® program, the company is widely recognized for its expertise in the luxury housing market. Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, online at www.ColoradoHomes.com, is part of NRT LLC, the nation's largest residential real estate brokerage company. NRT, a subsidiary of Realogy Corporation, operates Realogy's company-owned real estate brokerage offices. For more information please visit www.ColoradoHomes.com or call

Cherry Hills Village

Brendan Winans -- Previews International (Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage) — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 16:23:26 -0500

Luxury Colorado is intended to be a series of articles designed to educate consumers on the whereabouts/histories/real estate in Colorado's most luxurious communities.

The Luxury Colorado Series' will also proved its readers with information that may assist in a decision to move/purchase-real estate in one or more of the featured communities.

As a certified Luxury Realtor through Coldwell Banker Previews International, I can assure you that by allowing me to represent you in the purchase/sale of your luxury home, you will receive the utmost in quality service.

I am certified to sell luxury homes through the prestigious Previews International Luxury Real Estate program.
I have a vast knowledge of the many different luxury communities located throughout Colorado.
Through my experience, I have come to realize that no luxury consumer's needs are the same, and have learned to meet every individual need of my clients

Cherry Hills Village was established in 1945. Despite its exceedingly humble beginnings, Cherry Hills Village is considered to be one of the most affluent, as well as desirable, cities Colorado has to offer.

This truly unique city has established a highly coveted "rural" feel to its streets. This was done through a set of zoning plans that allowed for "limited" commercial use. The next course of action was to establish the city's governance as "Home Rule" (The principle or practice of self government by localities) rather than a "Statutory Town".

In just 20 years (1950-1970) Cherry Hills Village exploded from a population of 750 residents, to that of 4,605. A 514% increase in just 20 years. Today the city remains primarily rural, and has a recorded population of around 6,000 residents.

Cherry Hills Village has hosted two PGA Championships (1941 & 1985). As well as the 2005 Women's Open Golf Championship. Hosted at the beautiful Cherry Hills Country Club.

It is alleged, by its members, that the famous Arnold Palmer drink (half lemonade, half iced tea) had its start at the Cherry Hills Country Club when Arnold supposedly became angry at a bartender for not mixing lemonade into his iced tea.

Here you will find some of the most luxurious homes available in Colorado.

Listings in Cherry Hills Village range from around 500K-17.9M.

Some of the listings include:

21 Sunset Drive is Listed by: Luisa Staerkel of The Kentwood Company

20 Cherry Hills Park Drive is Listed by: Sandy Weigand of The Kentwood Company

1000 E. Oxford Lane is Listed by: Marlo A. Persichitte of MB Dardano and Associates

9 Lynn Road is Listed by: Gregory Geller of Vision Real Estate

If you are seeking space, yet still wish to experience the "Rural Luxury Neighborhood" feel, then Cherry Hills Village was designed with you in mind. Now is the best time to make your purchase in the Luxury Market. Don't wait until the supply is scarce, come home to Cherry Hills Village today.

If you would like to schedule a showing on any of the aforementioned listings, or would like to see other luxury listings in Colorado, call me to set a showing for a time that is at your earliest convenience. Ask for Brendan Winans.

Looking to buy or sell in the Luxury Market?

In this day and age, you need someone who can customize a marketing strategy that fits ALL your needs. Someone who has a vast knowledge of the luxury marketplace. Someone who is certified and has received rigorous training. You need Brendan Winans.

Brendan Winans

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

Broker Associate

Previews International

Office (303) 235-0400

Mobile (303) 829-7214

Denver Metro Area Luxury Home Sales Rise in April, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Reports

Brendan Winans -- Previews International (Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage) — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 14:43:41 -0500

Sales of million-dollar homes highest level since last October

DENVER, Colo. - May 27, 2009 - The Denver metro area luxury housing market continued to show some encouraging signs in April with sales of million-dollar homes rising to their highest level since October, according to a new report by Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, Colorado's leading provider of real estate services.

A total of 49 luxury properties changed hands in April, up from 36 in March and the highest level since last October, when 52 million-dollar homes sold in the Denver area. However, sales were still considerably below the 76 luxury homes that sold in the same month a year ago. The $1.33 million median sale price last month was 4.5 percent below the median price in March and 5.4 percent below April 2008.

"Between sales picking up and a decline in available inventory, we continued to see some improvement last month in the high-end housing market in the metro area," said Chris Mygatt, president of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Colorado. "It's too early to say for sure that we've turned the corner, but from all indications business certainly seems to be picking up in the luxury market."

Mygatt said there appears to be a growing sentiment - from the news media to consumers themselves - that the housing market has bottomed out. In addition, he said the stabilization of the financial markets, along with improvement in the stock market, seem to be triggering more positive attitudes among buyers.

"We are seeing increased activity in many of our communities," Mygatt said. "We've been getting good turnouts of potential buyers at open houses, and there seems to be more serious buyers out there. I think people understand that this buyer's market and the extremely low interest rates won't last forever. This seems to be prompting more and more people to get off the sidelines and jump into the market while prices and rates are still low."

As with the luxury end of the market, the overall housing market in the Denver metro area has also shown signs of improving. MetroList, metro Denver's multiple listing service, reported that the number of all homes sold in the region last month rose 5.74 percent to 3,390 units. Home prices were also up. The median price of a single-family home was up 3 percent to $210,000 while the median price for a condo rose 1.2 percent to $130,000.

Some key findings from this month's Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage luxury report:

The most expensive sale in the Denver metro area in April was a five-bedroom, six-bath, 7,299-square-foot home in Denver that sold for $4.35 million;
Denver boasted the most million-dollar sales in April with 13, followed by Boulder with 10;
It took an average of 146 days to sell a million-dollar home in the Denver metro area, up from 130 the previous month;
Homes sold for an average of 85 percent of their asking price, down from 89 percent in March.

The April Denver Metro Area Luxury Home Report is the latest monthly report by Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, a specialist in high-end real estate sales. Through its internationally renowned Coldwell Banker Previews® program, the company is recognized around the world for its expertise in the luxury housing market. The figures were derived from Multiple Listing Service data of all homes sold for more than $1 million.

Denver Metro Area Luxury Home Market Bounces Back. Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Reports.

Brendan Winans -- Previews International (Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage) — Wed, 06 May 2009 08:41:42 -0500

Median price and sales of million-dollar homes jump last month

DENVER, Colo. - April 23, 2009 - The Denver metro area luxury housing market showed some signs of improvement in March, with both home sales and median prices of million-dollar properties bouncing back from February lows, according to a new report by Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, Colorado's leading provider of real estate services.

The median price of a luxury home in the region jumped to $1.39 million last month, up 10 percent from the February median of $1.26 million and about even with last year's median. In addition, a total of 36 homes sold for more than $1 million in March, up from just 28 in February. However, sales were off from the March 2008 level of 73 units.

"While we're not out of the woods yet when it comes to the nation's economy or the housing market, we are beginning to see some very encouraging signs in the local real estate market, including the upper end," said Chris Mygatt, president and chief operating officer of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Colorado. "We've been seeing more serious buyers at open homes, more offers being written on properties, and for the first time in quite a while, sales are moving higher."

Mygatt said it appears that buyers are becoming more confident that the housing market is beginning to bottom out, and they are feeling more positive about the overall direction of the economy, including real estate. He added that the recent rebound in the stock market has also been encouraging to home buyers, especially in the higher end market.

"I think people are finally realizing that this is a unique window of opportunity when mortgage rates are at historic lows and home prices are lower than they have been in many, many years," he said. "That combination has created some outstanding values for buyers. It's prompting a lot of people to get off the fence and jump into the market before prices and interest rates start heading higher again as they inevitably do."

As with the luxury end of the market, the overall housing market in the Denver area has recently been showing some signs of life. MetroList, the Greenwood Village Multiple Listing Service, reported that total sales of existing homes, including single-family houses and condominiums, for March were up 29 percent from February to 3,206 units. Average sale prices were also up 6.6 percent from February to $232,395. However, both sales and prices were off from the same period a year ago.

Some key findings from this month's Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage luxury report:

The most expensive sale in the Denver metro area in March was a five-bedroom, seven-bath, 9,241-square-foot home in Castle that sold for $3,767,413;
Denver boasted the most million-dollar sales in March with 11, followed by Castle with six;
It took an average of 130 days to sell a million-dollar home in the Denver metro area, the same as a year ago;
Homes sold for an average of 89 percent of their asking price, up from 86 percent in February but down from 94 percent a year ago.

The March Denver Metro Area Luxury Home Report is the fourth monthly report by Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, a specialist in high-end real estate sales. Through its internationally renowned Coldwell Banker Previews® program, the company is recognized around the world for its expertise in the luxury housing market. The figures were derived from Multiple Listing Service data of all homes sold for more than $1 million.

About Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, a leading residential real estate brokerage company in Colorado, operates 19 offices with more than 1,970 sales associates serving the communities of the Denver area. The company offers residential and commercial brokerage, corporate relocation and mortgage services. Through its internationally renowned Coldwell Banker Previews program, the company is widely recognized for its expertise in the luxury housing market. Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, online at www.ColoradoHomes.com, is part of NRT LLC, the nation's largest residential real estate brokerage company. NRT, a subsidiary of Realogy Corporation, operates Realogy's company-owned real estate brokerage offices. For more information please visitwww.ColoradoHomes.com or call 888.322.9378.

2511 Ranch Reserve Ridge

Brendan Winans -- Previews International (Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage) — Sat, 25 Apr 2009 09:49:49 -0500

Featuring 2511 Ranch Reserve Rdg.

Once listed at 3.4M now lowered just below 3M at $2,999,999. This palatial masterpiece won't last long, make an offer now.

Welcome to the 'Villa Di Colone'. Guaranteed to please even the most discriminating buyer.

This 5 bed 8 bath dream home features an elevator that ensures access for everyone to all 8,969 of the luxurious square feet.

This Italian Villa style home also features limestone columns and travertine floors.

Enjoy the peace and quiet in the opulent office/study...

...Or get away to the master retreat.

Backs to Golf Course with breath taking views of the mountains.

This listing is offered by: Fuller Sotheby's Int'l Realty

For more information, or to schedule a viewing, please contact Brendan Winans at (303) 829-7214

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

Previews International Luxury Real Estate

Be well,

Brendan Winans

REALTOR®

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

Previews International

Mobile - 303.829.7214

Website - www.luxury-colorado.com

Superior Market Report. Sold in past 30 days.

Brendan Winans -- Previews International (Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage) — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 15:06:31 -0600

Here are the most recent sold properties for the Superior location. This graph drastically illustrates the importance of intelligent pricing. A couple of these were bank owned or short sales, however you will see their time on market is drastically longer than what is the average for the area.

Average DOM (days on market) for the Superior CO. location is about 50 days. As you can see, pricing too high from the start will drastically change the time spent on market.

If you or anyone you know has questions about the Superior Market, please give me a call.

2009 is going to be a good year!

Brendan Winans -- Previews International (Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage) — Mon, 29 Dec 2008 16:46:41 -0600

2009 is going to be a good year!

Wow, it isn't even here yet and 2009 is already looking to be a good year! Staying busy over the holidays is starting to pay off! Yet another one of my listings went under contract in under 30 days! (not trying to brag or anything but.... OH YEAH!) ;)

I have a bunch of business lined up to start my year off right. What it can be attributed to is, essentially, my inability to sit still! Here is a list of how I kept busy.

Any business that didn't HAVE to be put off, wasn't. (Hence how I was able to get one of my listings under contract on Christmas eve, and I still was able to spend time with my family!)
I worked on my reactive/proactive marketing pieces. (JoAnna Siminerio wrote a great post on this entitled "Be an Active Pro by being "Pro"Active")
I reorganized my business (Office, desk, files, computer files, etc.)
Probably the most important one was that I established my goals and physically wrote them out (it's not enough to just think them). For more on Goal setting read my post on it entitled "The Importance Of Goal Setting--Make it Your Goal to Set Goals"

When it comes down to it, I don't think what I did is really as important as the fact that I did. I didn't hold still, I kept on keepin' on, and now it's paying off.

... So what did you guys do for the holidays?

-Brendan Winans

Tis' The Season.... TO BUST YOUR BUTT & WORK!

Brendan Winans -- Previews International (Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage) — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 09:07:18 -0600

Ha ha ha... or should I say Ho Ho Ho!

I know I know, it's a silly title, and it probably shouldn't be taken to the extreme. After all, we realtors are humans too (though some refuse to believe it). We should be spending time with our families. It was Don Corleone that said "a man that never spends time with his family, can never truly be a man at all".

Who I'm really picking on though, are the people that practically take the entire season off, and then complain (or at the very least, wonder why) at the fact that they don't have any business and are starting from scratch this January.

Business inevitably slows down this time of year. It isn't dead though, there is still business to be had. However, rather than sitting all Scrooge-like and worrying about lack, why not be proactive in your marketing or advertising?

This season I've been using the "down-time" to get some "face-time". I recently started an ad campaign in the Rock Creek neighborhoods of Superior. I've sent out mail pieces advertising my most recent sale in the area (also mentioning the fact that I live in Rock Creek as well).

My listing at 2635 Clayton Cir. Sold after being on the market for only 25 days. Not only did it sell that quick, but it sold within 95% of the list price and 98% of the Realtor suggested list price.

It was not a short sale either! It was simply priced well, and marketed like crazy!

This has sparked some attention, and has allowed me to "line up" a considerable amount of work for the January-February time. I'll be too busy to complain (not that I would complain anyways) this coming year--Will you?

-Brendan Winans