Sarah's Blog

Weekly Market Watch- Coldwell Banker Real Esate in the Denver Metro Area

Sarah Solomon (Coldwell Banker) — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 20:55:24 -0500

I'm Invigorated!

Okay, I know that headline seems a little exaggerated and maybe even a little far-fetched, but honestly I am. I don't know if it is a combination of the sun, the clean Spring air and the excitement that seems to be brewing in our offices, but I can feel that change is abuzz in the real estate market and for the first time in a long time, I'm truly invigorated!

This week was yet another week of milestones. Several weeks ago I questioned, are all of these positive indicators the start of a trend or are they just that, positive indicators that will have a short shelf life. Well, after at least four weeks of some strong, positive gains, I truly am invigorated.

This week, NAR released its Pending Home Sales Index, a forward-looking indicator based on contracts signed in February, reporting that pending home sales rose 2.1 percent to 82.1 from a reading of 80.4 in January. Pending home sales have a way to go for there to be a meaningful increase, but recent increases in shopping activity are hopeful indicators that we'll see additional sales gains.

NAR's Housing Affordability Index also rose 0.9 percentage points to a record high of 173.5 in February from an upwardly revised index of 172.6 in January, and is 36.3 percentage points higher than a year ago. This broad measure of housing affordability using consistent values and assumptions over time, shows that the relationship between home prices, mortgage interest rates and family income is the most favorable since tracking began in 1970. 1970!!!!

Also interesting, Inman News released a survey this week noting that of the 225 readers who responded to an online survey from March 23 to April 1, 48.9 percent said housing markets in their area were improving, 27.1 percent said they were stabilizing and just 12.9 percent characterized them as worsening.

That, along with the indicators I've referenced over the last several weeks including last week's jump in mortgage applications, the historic drop in interest rates and the surge in new housing starts, we truly are seeing some very positive and indicative signs of recovery. I truly believe that buyers are seeing inventory move and that gets them moving.

It seems some of Obama's various recovery efforts are starting to have some effect on the market. The billions to slow foreclosures and goose bank lending, plus the tax credit, are getting buyers to move which is a positive sign.

Now, of course, we'll have to keep our eye on it and watch as the market continues to progress through our traditionally busy Spring selling season, but thus far the signs are positive and my magic eight balls says "Outlook is Good."

With that good news in tow, let's take a look at this week in real estate:

Boulder/Longmont-Our Boulder office reported very strange two weeks in the Boulder market. New listings fell about 33% during the last week of March compared to the week before but under contracts skyrocketed! They went from 3 to 27! A 900% increase. Showings were down due to the snowstorm. Inventory in Boulder County continues to increase but we are holding steady at about 10% of going under contract in the first two weeks on the market. Our Longmont office reports showing activity was down 35% from last week...the blizzard of March 2009 did impact the showings! The week ended on a positive note with the showings going up again. Buyers are finally getting the message that the interest rates are awesome! More investors are writing contracts to purchase.
Evergreen/Conifer-Our Evergreen office reported a total of two new listings for the week. Two listings went under contract, one is a short sale property. 63 showings for the week making a total of 335 for the month of March.
Denver Central-Our Denver Central office reports we have seen a big increase in activity in March. The lower-end market is very hot right now with multiple offer situations. We are also seeing increases in sales volume.
Devonshire-Our Devonshire office is reporting that we are still seeing showings increase even with the unsettled weather. Buyers are getting tired of waiting for things to stabilize and are anxious to get out there and get a home. They are however, looking at many more homes before making a decision. The interest rates are wonderful so I believe that activity and closings will increase as we move further into Spring. Sellers are seeing that price and staging of their homes are more important than ever. Now is truly the time to move forward towards your real estate goals.
Southwest Metro -Our Southwest Metro office reports our floor has been generating great leads this past week. We have had four Agents that picked up buyers from their floor shifts. Open houses were very successful this past weekend. We are seeing a turning point (small but turning). Our mortgage rep is still very busy. He registered 25 leads out of 26 this month!
El Paso County-Our Colorado Springs office reports that the under $250,000 market seems to be the hottest price range right now compared to $350,000 two months ago. This may be due to more of the workforce of some of the companies at the Space Command Center at Schreiver coming in and the executive transfers have slowed.
Larimer County-Our Fort Collins/Loveland office reports that Spring has sprung and following a fast-moving blizzard this past week, we've seen a spike in activity in Larimer County. Loveland overall remains slower, but all indicators are that the Spring selling season is underway in the Fort Collins/Windsor area as showings are up 20% from previous weeks. Contracts are strong as well with an end of month blitz that doubled the number of the week before. We are seeing an increase in open house activity and sign calls as interest in current inventory increases while interest rates remain unbelievably favorable.
North Metro-Our North Metro office notes that Agents are going out on many listing appointments. Sellers are ready to "sell." Numerous buyer appointments as well. Seeing an increase in number of short sale listings. Average days on market for our listings is about 95 days.
Parker, Douglas and Elbert Counties -What a busy week last week of March! We set a record for March under contracts as well as for showings during week one of March of over 300! The biggest impact comes without a doubt from the first time home buyers that want to take advantage of the $8,000 tax credit. Because of the increased activity and the decreased inventory, more and more communities in the lower price ranges show a stable value. The upper end communities are still slow, however it's only a question of time until those pick up as well.
Southeast Metro-No information reported.
West Lakewood- We have bank owned properties that are receiving multiple offers. This week we had a short sale listing receive seven offers. Of the property with seven offers, the selling Agent was asked to give their highest and best offer. Two owner-occupied homes which have been listed since Fall received multiple offers. The buyer offered $10,000 over list price and lost the home to an investor. First time buyers who want to take advantage of the tax credit are finding themselves either in multiple offer situations or the property went under contract within hours of them viewing it. They are also in competition with investors. Owner occupied sellers are busy getting their homes ready for market. They are open to staging, painting and carpeting so they can compete well. Eight parties came through a $730,000 home at an open house last weekend. That is the highest traffic since last summer.

As you can see, the market is heating up. Consumer confidence is finally on the rise and buyers are edging off the fence. For those who are still cautious, please consider all of the positive signs that are knocking at your front door. From the first time home buyer credit to the historically low interest rates to the increases in conforming loan limits to the generous amount of inventory to the motivated sellers to the...honestly, the list goes on. Opportunity is knocking and it is time for buyers to recognize this and jump in.

Until next week,

Have a great one,

Chris Mygatt

President and Chief Operating Officer

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Colorado

Weekly Market Watch- Coldwell Banker Real Estate in the Denver Metro Area

Sarah Solomon (Coldwell Banker) — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 20:53:10 -0500

Are Happy Days Here Again?

We awoke Thursday morning to some very positive economic news-Wells Fargo reported a better-than-expected first quarter profit of $3 billion surging the company's stock by 32% and boosting shares of many other big banks as investors bet that Wells Fargo's peers may also post results that exceed Wall Street's estimates. The hope by all involved is that the banking sector is stabilizing. Much of Wells Fargo's recent success is in part related to the recent increases in mortgage loan applications which could be a strong sign that consumer confidence is on the rise.

Also revealed this week is the fact that new jobless claims fell more than expected. The Labor Department said Thursday that the tally of initial jobless claims fell to a seasonally adjusted 654,000 from a revised 674,000 the previous week. Analysts expected claims to drop to 660,000

This week there were so many positive headlines that, rather than provide you with my ongoing synopsis, I thought I'd give it to you straight from the horse's mouth. Yes, even the media is now on board with the positive headlines which tells me that the market is definitely changing.

New jobless claims, trade gap fall; retailers see signs of hope; http://www.usatoday.com/money/economy/2009-04-09-jobless-trade_N.htm
Big rally on Wall Street; http://money.cnn.com/2009/04/09/markets/markets_newyork/index.htm?postversion=2009040918
The case for buying a home right now; http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123913901841798375.html
With affordability up, home buyers are returning to the market; http://www.nahb.org/news_details.aspx?sectionID=0&newsID=9000
Outlook on economy is brightening; http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/07/us/politics/07poll.html?_r=1&scp=23&sq=economy&st=nyt
Real Estate Outlook: Promising Numbers; http://realtytimes.com/rtpages/20090407_realestateoutlook.htm
Denver: 10 Cities Where Americans Are Relocating; http://www.forbes.com/2009/03/30/americans-moving-cities-lifestyle-real-estate-relocating_slide_2.html?thisspeed=25000

And with that very exciting and uplifting news in tow, let's take a look at this week in real estate:

Boulder/Longmont-Our Boulder office reported new listings continue to rise in the Boulder market, especially condos but sales are increasing as well. Sales in the Boulder market are up 36% from the week before. New listings are up 48% week over week. A front page story in the newspaper today shows 1^st quarter single family home sales in the 1^st quarter of 2009, down 50% from 2008. Prices up 0.4%. Prices also up in Louisville (0.9%), Superior (4%), Erie (4.2%) and Lafayette (6.9%)! Sales were up 15.9% in Broomfield, but prices were down 5.7%. Figure that out!
Evergreen/Conifer-Our Evergreen office reported we had a total of four new listings for the week. Of the three listings that went under contract, two are short sales. There were 60 showings for the week. We had five buyers put under contract during the week, but only one was a bank owned property, the others were normal sales. One contract is for land ($400M), two are for homes priced in $175M range, one home is at $400M and one REO is priced at $900M.
Denver Central-We have seen a big increase in activity in March/April. With interest rates so low, buyers and investors are purchasing properties. We continue to see a marked reduction in inventory. Number of days on the market continues to drop. Our office average is 82 days.
Devonshire- Our Devonshire office reports that once again we are seeing a surge in showing activity which indicate that buyers are jumping off the fence and into the market. All of the economic reports and the news coverage seem to indicate that the bottom is here or near for home prices and buyers are hearing the news, therefore moving ahead in their search for homes. The federal government first time home buyer tax credit is helping to create momentum for buyers. As the listing inventory decreases, sellers are seeing that this is the time to get their own homes on the market. They don't want to miss this surge in buyer activity. I would say that this spring should show a considerable surge in sales. We look forward to a productive summer.
Southwest Metro - Our Southwest Metro office reports that showings were down a little last week due to the weather, especially Friday and Saturday. We are still seeing buyers looking and writing on properties. We had several Agents that had buyers looking and then writing on properties. We had several Agents with buyers that wrote on properties where there were multiple offers. Recently we are seeing properties going close to their list price. Sellers are now looking into listing their home this month or in early May. Our mortgage rep is still very busy taking loan applications and approving buyers. Open houses and floor calls are still going strong.
El Paso County-Colorado Springs reports that the weather has slowed the market a bit but board sales remain good, as do ours. Commercial vacancies are still growing and unemployment here is growing fast.
Larimer County-Activity is up and multiple offers are coming in on well-priced homes. One Agent reported three offers on a new listing that had only been on the market for one day. Consequently, the property went for above asking and the sellers were thrilled. Buyers will come out of the woodwork to see well priced homes in the area. Showing activity has been steady and the spring season is bringing additional inventory to the market. Home prices are stable. Prices have been virtually flat or only slightly down for the last several years and with exception to short sales and foreclosures, the market appears to be at or very near the bottom. Given what has been happening on both coasts as well as Arizona/Nevada, we are fortunate our prices have remained comparatively stable. Homes in this area represent an excellent value for today's home buyer.
North Metro-No information reported.
Parker, Douglas and Elbert Counties- Although we set a new record for listings under contract for the month of March, our inventory increased slightly because we added another high producing team to our sales force. Showing activity has been the highest since 2006! Our number of showings increased by over 100 in one week! We still receive multiple offers on power priced listings. Last week's record was 14 offers on one listing within the first four days on the market.
Southeast Metro-In the southeast area we are seeing a steady increase of activity in the luxury home market. Inventory overall is increasing and there is fierce competition in the price point $200,000 and below. Buyers are moving quicker to write offers. Spring has sprung!
West Lakewood-Many sellers are still unreasonable regarding their price. One Agent in particular felt he priced a home well, however the feedback from Agents is that it is substantially overpriced. Another Agent would not take a listing because the seller was unwilling to price for the market. Buyers do not seem to know the market is changing. They still think everything should be a "steal." In the $200,000 - $300,000 range the market is still saturated with short sales and foreclosures. The stimulus package is working in the lower price points. It will take time to have it work upwards in the higher price points.

Now what should we do with these positive stories? Don't look a gift horse in the mouth! Spread the word. One of the biggest challenges hindering our sector right now is low consumer confidence. We've just finished three years of a very gloomy and challenging time in United States real estate. And while this optimism can't yet be explained by official statistics, which lag behind the current market by 30-60 days, pendings are up in many markets and units sold are certainly on the rise. It's time to target our family, friends and clients alike and educate them on the opportunities and possibilities in today's market. The time is right now. The market is poised for a rebound. With the $8,000 first time home buyer tax credit, the historically low interest rates, the high rate of affordability-we couldn't be in a better position for a rebound. Read my lips: spread the word! Tell your friends. Tell your family. If you're considering buying a home, now may just be the perfect time.

Next week I will be taking a brief hiatus from Weekly Market Watch. I'll return the following week with another exciting, robust edition.

Until next week,

Have a great one,

Chris Mygatt

President and Chief Operating Officer

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Colorado

Nob Hill Near the Denver Tech Center- Home for Sale that Will Impress Anyone!

Sarah Solomon (Coldwell Banker) — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 20:47:02 -0500

Sarah Solomon | Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage | 303.598.8738

4295 Arapahoe Place, Centennial, CO

Remodel in Nob Hill! The best property on the market- hands down a slam dunk! Gorgeous from Head to Toe! You have found your oasis in Centennial- Beau

4BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $224,900

Year Built	1961
Sq Footage	2,221
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	2
Parking	1 Car garage
Lot Size	12,893 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

OPEN HOUSE OPEN HOUE OPEN HOUSE! June 06, 2009 11-1 p.m. !!! There is no other home on the market in this amazing location that even remotely compares! Move in Condition. Owners cared for this home and have put lots of love into it! Everything is in perfect condition! Remodeled and Upgraded...Just for You! Call right away for a private showing- you need to see this before it's gone!!!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central heat	Fireplace	Hardwood floor
Tile floor	Family room	Living room
Office/Den	Dishwasher	Refrigerator
Stove/Oven	Granite countertop	Attic
Basement	Laundry area - inside	Balcony, Deck, or Patio
Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Garage parking

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Lush Landscape Will Impress

Curb Appeal to the MAX!

Modern Finishes

Wood Floors Abound

Floor to Ceiling Windows

50's Ranch Layout - Charming Floor Plan

Modern Design

Extremely Clean and Cared For- Move in Condition!!!

The best investment for a First Time Buyer!

Newer Texture/Paint/Tiles

Updated systems

A deck to impress ALL Your friends and Family!

This is it! Stop Looking- Submit your Highest and Best!!!

OPEN Saturday from 11-1 p.m. 06/06/09

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Photo 1	Photo 2
Photo 3	Photo 4
Photo 5	Photo 6

Contact info:

Sarah Solomon

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

303.598.8738

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jun 5, 2009, 4:44pm PDT

New Listings Hands Down the Best on Market!!! Mountain Views on Malachite Court in Parker CO- Listed By Coldwell Banker

Sarah Solomon (Coldwell Banker) — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 20:43:44 -0500

Sarah Solomon | Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage | 303.598.8738

9785 Malachite Court, Parker, CO

Malachite Court~ A Place to Remember!

4BR/3BA Single Family House

offered at $409,000

Year Built	1998
Sq Footage	2,518
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	3 full, 0 partial
Floors	Unspecified
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	10,454 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Enjoy your evenings on the custom deck while you soak up the best mountain view in Parker! Granite, extensive tile, rich wood floors and new lighting! Fireside comforts, a private master suite, and walk-out basement! Minutes from great shopping and dining, with easy access to E470 and I25. Come home to an air of Stonegate comfort on this double cul-de-sac lot! Schools Within Walking Distance-Security System!!

Your Search… Just Ended!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Fireplace
High/Vaulted ceiling	Walk-in closet	Hardwood floor
Tile floor	Family room	Living room
Dining room	Breakfast nook	Dishwasher
Refrigerator	Stove/Oven	Microwave
Granite countertop	Attic	Basement
Laundry area - inside	Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Garage parking	Swimming pool(s)	Tennis court(s)
Playground

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Walk-Out Basement on Double Plus Lot!!!

Remodeled Kitchen with Granite & Tile Backsplash!

Gleaming Dark Wood Floors Abound!!!

Open and Flooded with Natural Light!

Pottery Barn Colors and Decor!

Large Bedrooms with Walk-In's!

Peaceful Master with Amazing Views of the Rocky's! Stunning...Truly!

Eat Breakfast in the Mornings in Very Large Nook- With the Same Great Views!

Extremely Large Custom Deck with Lighting!

True Colorado Living!

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Photo 2	Photo 3
Photo 4	Photo 5
Photo 6

Contact info:

Sarah Solomon

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

303.598.8738

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jun 2, 2009, 1:54pm PDT

Amazing Le Bella by Golden Design- REO Owned!!!

Sarah Solomon (Coldwell Banker) — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 14:50:15 -0600

Sarah Solomon | Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage | 303.598.8738

5655 Vistancia Drive, Parker, CO

Amazing Pradera Custom Home! Featured Community in Vistancia!

5BR/4.5BA Single Family House

offered at $572,000

Year Built	2006
Sq Footage	4,737
Bedrooms	5
Bathrooms	4 full, 1 partial
Floors	2
Parking	4 Car garage
Lot Size	.50 acres
HOA/Maint	$140 per month

DESCRIPTION

Outstanding Le Bella Contemporary in Gated Community! Welcome Home to Vistancia~ Nestled in prestigious Pradera Golf Community! Grand Entry With Winding Staircase and Iron Balisters! Boasts 5 Bed plus Study W/ French Doors, Guest Quarters, Dark Cabinets Surrounded by Extensive Tiles and Granite Slab! Custom Built-Ins! Gourmet Kitchen W/ Gas Stove in Island! Double Ovens for Thanksgiving Turkey's and Christmas Cookies! Formal, Breakfast Bar and Nook! Amazing Layout in this Deal of the Century! Bank Owned is Your Gain! Under 50% of Orginal Sale! On of the Largest Models- same home is selling for over 1.0 million by the Builder!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Fireplace
High/Vaulted ceiling	Walk-in closet	Hardwood floor
Tile floor	Family room	Living room
Office/Den	Dining room	Breakfast nook
Dishwasher	Stove/Oven	Microwave
Granite countertop	Stainless steel appliances	Attic
Basement	Laundry area - inside	Balcony, Deck, or Patio
Yard

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

3 Fireplaces

Formal Dining

Gourmet Kitchen/Slab and Stainless

Harwoods Abound

Huge Garage 4+++

Guest Quarters on Main Level

Park an F-150 in the Master Closet

Amazing Master Suite W/ Fireplace and Sitting Area

Fully Landscaped on Half of an Acre Lot- VIEWS!

Huge Basement with over 2,400 sq ft to Finish

Stone and Stucco Custom Home!

Orginally Sold for 1.2 Million in 2007!

FORECLOSURE REO PROPERTY!!!

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Sarah Solomon

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

303.598.8738

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 26, 2008, 8:29am PST

Loan/Tax Fraud in Colorado- Owner Occupany

Sarah Solomon (Coldwell Banker) — Sun, 11 May 2008 10:02:57 -0500

Loan/Tax Fraud in Your Neighborhood- Owner Occupancy

Are you Ready for this?

Ever had an investigator knock on your door and ask if you have ever seen Mr. Smith next door and if he truly does live there? Think it doesn't happen? - Guess again!

It is happening right here in Colorado and they are starting to get creative and utilizing all different kinds of resources in order to catch people. They find the buyer and work their way up to the Real Estate agent and Mortgage Broker-

Buyers: You can't hide from this. Are you changing your entire life to avoid getting caught? Your records, your mail, your credit cards. Bills in your name- registrations, etc. Don't miss something because if you do- your toast. But always remember- you can't avoid an investigator. They will find you!

Ready to trade in your black suit for a orange one? Here are few that did-

Ronald Fontenot - a mortgage broker with First Choice Mortgage who has entered a guilty plea and owner of PIK Properties and Investments, L.L.C
Torrence James - a mortgage broker with First Choice Mortgage and Green River Mortgage who has also entered a guilty plea
Nicole Puller - a mortgage broker with Rapid Contracting Services who has entered a plea of guilty
Glenn Puller - a purchaser who has entered a guilty plea
Talita James - a purchaser who has entered a guilty plea
Taiwan Lee - a purchaser who has entered a guilty plea
Cindy Ingram - a purchaser who has entered a guilty plea

From Mortgage Fraud.org

How about your mortgage lender giving you legal advise. Something along the lines of "it is ok- don't worry even I do it!" - News flash they are NOT attorney's and possibly weren't smart enough to pass the bar exam to begin with that is why they are telling you that it is ok to commit a FEDERAL CRIME.

What is it that you are signing at the closing table an autograph on your latest book? There are a plethora of forms you fill out stating that you will live in the property- remember when you learned how to read. Invoke that childhood lesson people, please! Read the affidavit!!!

Either the mortgage brokers are stupid or the have nothing to lose. But the majority of professionals in this industry have families so you try to make sense of that one. If someone will sell their own integrity down the river in in order get your business - why in the world do you think they would help you not go to jail. You would be the first to go!

Plus- they alone don't take the blunt of the crime. Although most people think that they can cry wolf if they ever get caught and tell the judge they were bamboozle into buying the property and that the loan officer told them not to worry about it. I don't know what judge will be sympathetic to you not using common sense and reading what you are signing. None the less- everyone goes to jail. No one falls under the purview of protection when they knowingly commit a crime. So sorry!

REALTORS-

Line 398 item 17. of the Residential Real Estate Commission Approved form-

Buyer Does or Does Not represent that Buyer will occupy the Property as Buyer's principal residence.

One sentence- isn't confusing and doesn't take a brain surgeon to interpret it- does it?

Did someone wake up and bump their head this morning? Seriously, how hard is it to do the right thing-

Obviously one of the most difficult for an unprofessional consultant claiming that they have integrity to do, because people are committing these crimes right under our noses with no fear of losing everything. Wonder if they know how to spell that word- maybe they just thought it was a catchy word to place on their business card ;)

What is it that loan officers and real estate agents don't understand about the term "FEDERAL Crime!" Here is a person that works specifically to catch people in the act. If you have any questions- or you want to report an agent or loan officer. Here would be a good place to start!

You do all this for what a lower interest rate and to avoid paying capital gains and taxes on the additional income? RIGHT! Well- the penalties far out way the cost. So you figure it out! That is what I have to say...

FBI Field Office, Mortgage Fraud
White Collar Crime Supervisor
http://denver.fbi.gov/
Federal Office Building, Room 1823
1961 Stout Street, 18th Floor
Denver, CO 80294-1823
Phone: (303) 629-7171

Respectfully,
Sarah Solomon

Douglas County Real Estate

Good New for REALTORS in CO! Propsed Compensation Initiavtive DECLINED!

Sarah Solomon (Coldwell Banker) — Sat, 10 May 2008 19:15:57 -0500

Proposed Compensation Initiative

Rachel Nance Vice President of Public Policy for the Colorado Association of REALTORS® reported this morning that the Colorado Trial Lawyers Association officially pulled the initiative #109 which would have created a cap on brokerage fees/commissions. In addition, the Colorado Trial Lawyers withdrew the other eight initiative they had filed and the measure that would have capped the Trial Lawyers fees was withdrawn as well.

"CAR's immediate attention and opposition to this initiative proved to be most effective," said CAR President Greg Zadel. "Our efforts proved that the Trial Lawyers initiative was ill advised and would not be in the best interest of the consumer or the real estate profession."

Truly, the public is who matters most.

But I will be as honest as I can also when saying that my company sends out survey's to all clients that choose to go with Coldwell Banker and close their transactions with us. On a weekly basis we are recognized by our managing broker for outstanding service as confirmed by our clients. I am certain that from my past client sphere- if I went back to any of them and ask "Mr. Smith- based on the marketing, negotiation skills and proper research or market position of your property and after successfully selling or helping you buy your property do you think that me and my staff earned our fee?" I guarantee you the answer would be yes!

As confirmed in a agency relationship agreement we are to be advocates for our clients and promote their interest above our own. We sign our name to that promise and if indeed that fact alone is fulfilled then our clients have won. At the end of the day that is what matters most! The client!

Respectfully,

Sarah Solomon

Douglas County Real Estate

Spirt Ridge Custom Stucco Walk-Out City and Mountain Views Richard Farber Custom Builder

Sarah Solomon (Coldwell Banker) — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 20:10:43 -0500

Sarah Solomon | Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage | 303.598.8738

9464 Sara Gulch Circle, Parker, CO

Announcing Custom Home on acreage in Parker's Spirit Ridge Community! Brand New! Barely Lived In! Walk-Out Colorado Beauty! Sold over 1 mil in 06' -

4 Bdrm Single Family House

offered at $799,500

Year Built	2006
Sq Footage	6,046
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	6 full, 0 partial
Floors	2
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	1.5 acres
HOA/Maint	$55 per month

DESCRIPTION

Announcing....

Available NOW!

Wow! Custom Ranch W/ Finsihed Walk-Out Basement. The Moment you Step in You Will Feel the Welcome! Luxury Abounds with Wooden Celings, Mahogany Floors, Slate in Kitchen, Massive Built-ins in Living Area! Stunning Views from Deck! Library or Study with Covered Ceilings! Huge Formal Dining! Eat in Kitchen! Vessel Sinks & Wall Facets- give BOLD Design! Master Suite with Fireplace and Stand up Shower & Marble Accents in Master Bath! Closet in Master is Fully Suited with Mahogany Custom Built-ins and Shelving! Enjoy Entertaining on Those Warm Colorado Nights in your Finished Walk-out Basement with Covered Patio, Wet-bar and Media/Family Area that is Suited for Many Guests. Call This One Home! Phenomenal Design Elements Througout! There is None Other at this price for this Type of Quality. Lender owned- is Your Gain! Email Agent for photos- coming soon!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central heat	Fireplace	High/Vaulted ceiling
Walk-in closet	Hardwood floor	Tile floor
Family room	Living room	Bonus/Rec room
Office/Den	Dining room	Breakfast nook
Dishwasher	Stove/Oven	Microwave
Granite countertop	Stainless steel appliances	Basement
Laundry area - inside

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Granite Slab in Butler's Pantry, Wet Bar & Formal Serving Bar! Unique Mountain Design!

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Sarah Solomon

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

303.598.8738

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Mar 20, 2008, 1:49pm PDT

New Price in Shaw Heights- Westminster Home for Sale

Sarah Solomon (Coldwell Banker) — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 23:53:01 -0500

Sarah Solomon | Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage | sarah.solomon@coloradohomes.com | 303.598.8738

8501 Cedar Lane, Westminster, CO

Great Home in North Denver

4 Bdrm Single Family House

offered at $175,000

Year Built	1956
Sq Footage	1,742
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	Unspecified
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	6,600 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Shaw Heights Beauty! Open & Flooded In Light! 3 Bd On Main W/ Master Suite & Bath In Loft Area. Huge Corner Lot W/ Mature Landscape! New Paint, New Kitchen Tiled Center Tops & New Floor! Two Living Areas! 2 Car Garage!All This For Under 180k.Charming Home! Welcome Home! Buyers You Will Love!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central heat	Fireplace	Hardwood floor
Tile floor	Family room	Living room
Office/Den	Dishwasher	Refrigerator
Stove/Oven	Washer	Dryer
Laundry area - inside	Yard

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

New counter-tops, floors and paint!

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Sarah Solomon

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

sarah.solomon@coloradohomes.com

303.598.8738

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Mar 17, 2008, 6:57pm PDT

Announcing Littleton Loft- Beauty Abounds!

Sarah Solomon (Coldwell Banker) — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 23:50:12 -0500

Sarah Solomon | Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage | 303.598.8738

3076 W. Prentice Ave, Littleton, CO

Great Littleton Loft- Prepare to Fall in Love!!!

2 Bdrm Condo

offered at $141,900

Year Built	1997
Sq Footage	980
Bedrooms	2
Bathrooms	1 full, 0 partial
Floors	2
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$127 per month

DESCRIPTION

Serene Golf Community, 1 Bd/1bth+Loft Will Impress. Private & Peaceful Faces South W/ Mountain Views-Steps From Green! 1 Car- A-Garage! Master-Bed W/J&J Bath- garden tub & French Doors In Loft Area W/Enticing Views.Fireplace, All Appliances Included, Unique Pergo Floors In Kitchen! Quick Access 2 Lt Rail/Aspen Grove! Talk a walk downtown to the flower shop or Terracotta for lunch! Melting Pot- steps away! PRICED SLASHED!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central heat	Fireplace	High/Vaulted ceiling
Hardwood floor	Living room	Office/Den
Breakfast nook	Dishwasher	Refrigerator
Stove/Oven	Washer	Dryer
Laundry area - inside	Balcony, Deck, or Patio

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Guest parking	Clubhouse	Golf course
Lake

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Unique Loft Style Living on The Golf Course! Views of the Front Range- Can't be Beat!

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Sarah Solomon

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

303.598.8738

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Mar 17, 2008, 7:35pm PDT

What's New in Parker Colorado- Parker Highlights and Changes

Sarah Solomon (Coldwell Banker) — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 12:00:36 -0600

Exciting News for Parker, Colorado

COSTCO - Finally!!!

Costco is coming to Parker, CO. This is great news for locals residents like me! No longer do you travel across town 15-30 minutes to shop at the infamous Costco! You may have noticed some changes happening to the Cottonwood & Parker Road intersection. I am certain we are going to see a face lift on the old Cotonwood shopping center as well. The location of the commercial building will be north of the C-470 ramp.

Parker Adventist

The hospital is planning to expand a new wing, a new floor and a new 4-story parking garage! Wow- great news! Two 60,000 square foot medical buildings will go in with a connecting sky bridge already fully leased.

West Creek Development is moving forward!

The OLD Target will become 5 smaller businesses- one being Circuit City! A little competition for the Best Buy on Twenty Mile Road!

Albertsons is becoming a Sprouts- nature grocery store big on the west coast! Wish it was a Whole Foods- but what do ya do! Again some healthy competition for Vitamin Cottage on Parker Road!

A new police station will most likely be going in south of Lowe's on Dransfeldt! Warehouse space will also be available in that area! Looks like there is public storage already in construction behind the AutoZone.

An ice rink (how fun!), skate park and a 4-6 outdoor tennis court will be going in by the Feild House. Swimming facilities will be doubled at some point.

The new High School should open for fall of this year and the middle school construction will begin this year!

A tear out of downtown Mainstreet is scheduled in order to implement a draining system as well as wider side walks.

The Overlook at Cherry Creek (all inclusive retirement area) is on hold waiting for a developer.

Horseshoe Ridge is still building!

An outdoor stadium is pending and probable to accommodate 5 HIGH SCHOOLS! Do we love our kids or WHAT?

Another High School and an elementary school are scheduled to be built at Hess and Jordon Road!

A stretch of Chambers is waiting to be developed that will connect Chambers to Hess Road!

The limited recreation reservoir that has been approved will be expanded!

Mainstreet connection to I-25 is most likely about 10 years out but hopefully the Hess connection will be made much sooner! Sell your house and sell it within the next five years at least (If you live on Mainstreet)!

The Hess bridge (extending it to Parker) should begin this year 2008!

A park and ride with a large parking facility is possible for Light Rail access- WOW!

Is Parker becoming the next Highlands Ranch? Well we will just have to see what happens here over the next few years!

For additional information please call Steve Greer with the Town of Parker @ 3603.805.3339 or visit them on their website @ www.parkeronline.org - you can also email Steve @ town@parkeronline.org

Respectfully Submitted,
Sarah Solomon

Douglas County Real Estate

From the Lips of Fannie Mae

Sarah Solomon (Coldwell Banker) — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 12:54:57 -0600

OK so that kind of sounds funny!

This post comes from an article I received from Fannie Mae back in December 2007.

I have spoken to my preferred lender and we discussed the topic briefly. Really, it is just an incentive for lenders to employ additional tools and processes to validate housing trends and learn how to adapt to them. The way I look at it- people need to buy and sell Real Estate. This is just the way it is- this will never change. Are they sharpening their pencils yes- they should have years ago. Are the implementing new systems-yes. Doesn't mean people can't do 100% financing. Doesn't mean the market is crashing down around us!

DECLINING MARKETS- What are they and where?

Fact: The entire state of Colorado has been deemed a declining market!

Let's throw a party! Anyone up for a gin and tonic?

Fannie Mae defines maximum financing for properties located within declining markets:

"Selling Guide Part VII, Chapter 1, Section 103.02. Limited Cash-Out Refinance Transactions:"

When a property is located in an area identified as declining, Fannie Mae will now require the lender to offer financing at LTV and CLTV ratios that are five percentage points below the maximum ratios allowed for the selected mortgage product. For example, when the highest LTV allowed for a particular mortgage product is 100 percent, maximum financing highest LTV allowed for a particular mortgage product is 100 percent, maximum financing would be 95 percent if the subject is located in an area identified as declining (When the mortgage is subject to subordinate financing, the CLTV ratio for all outstanding mortgages is used for this purpose). Fannie Mae~

How to Determine Value?

"When the appraisal notes that the subject property is in a declining market, the maximum financing policy must be applied. When the appraisal does not indicate that they subject property is located within a declining market, Fannie Mae strongly urges lenders to implement processes and apply supplemental sources and tools to validate current housing trends and not rely solely on the information reflected in the appraisal." Fannie Mae~

Sources Lenders are Referring To...

S & P/Case Shiller. This company relies on purchase price and additional information from the County Assessor and Recorders Offices.
Office of Federal Housing Enterprise Oversight Index
National Association of REALTORS - WHICH is Awesome that we are being depended on!

Lenders are now being extremely cautious when reviewing the appraisal. Which is great really! They are requesting additional support from appraisers- validating the information and truly taking an interest in the process. How is this bad?

DU- Desktop Underwriter usually will generate a message on loan files when a property is identified to be in a declining market. DU the requires additional information to be provided. OK sounds simple...

When receiving this message for requests of additional information, the LTV for the mortgage loan must generally be adjusted to five percentage points below the max for the specific product. However, if the lender receives the message from DU but has evidence that the property is NOT located in a declining market, the lender may offer maximum financing.

REALITY CHECK- Price homes correctly!

Re-finances don't apply when the borrower has an existing Fannie Mae product or securitized first mortgage and is requesting a new limited cash-out refinance mortgage.

For additional information visit Fanie Mae!

Respectfully,
Sarah Solomon

Douglas County Real Estate

Remodeling Your Home in Parker Colorado

Sarah Solomon (Coldwell Banker) — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 12:40:22 -0600

Some How To Tips!

With the housing market lately I have seen many home owners focus on upgrading their homes vs. buying brand new construction. Remodeling can be used to add space and improve the function of any home. This is actually a great idea, especially when you considering selling within five years. However, I would not advise to deplete the equity in a home in order to finance the projects. Instead, take one step at a time and make meaningful upgrades to what you currently have.

Be Safe!

Always follow the local building codes click here for access to the Douglas County website.

Home Owners Insurance!

Ensure you call your homeowners insurance provider to update your policy after renovations.

Consider making the following improvements!

Outlets and Wiring need to be adequate for any improvement made to the property. Don't skip this step! Many homes built in the mid 60's through 70's used aluminum wiring, which was cheap but susceptible to loose connections and can spark and cause fires. A professional electrician can inspect and replace damaged/outdated wiring.
Choose Low or none volatile organic bulding products. Certain items such as paints, caulk, carpet, etc. Or get a little green! Renewable flooring- such as bamboo, cork or wool. How about salvaged wood planks, glass tile, carpet made from melted down plastic pop bottles? Find out what the EPA has to say here.
Kitchen and baths always a favorite for any homeowner. Gas cook-tops and ranges need a recirculating fan or vent to extract heat, smoke and odors. Bathrooms are the same removing moisture and stale air while preventing mold and mildew. Ensure you aren't forgetting these while you are selecting your new tile color and appliance selection. Sometimes it is hard to remember the important stuff!
Have you even considered adding a fire sprinkler system to your home? Besides providing a peace of mind it could add value to your home. Check with your insurance provider and see if you would receive a discount on your monthly insurance premium. Might off set the cost of installation. Typically this system runs between $1.00-$1.50 per square foot to install.
Install Water-Sense-labeled toilets- uses 20% less than the current model and 60% less than toilets that are older than 1992.

Respectfully,

Sarah Solomon

Douglas County Real Estate

2007 Annual Report for Parker Colorado

Sarah Solomon (Coldwell Banker) — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 17:33:37 -0600

Fun Facts for Parker Colorado

General Land Use

233.4 acres of land annexed
7.3 of those acres were infill annexations
50.1 of those acres were zoned for open space
126.2 of those acres were zoned for commercial
11.1 of those acres were zoned for mixed use
Zoning allowed for up to 300 dwelling units

Building Permits Issued

59 New commercial
229 New single family dwellings
3 multi-family

Financial Information

$60 million budget approved for 2008
$10.4 million of the budget is for street projects
$4.8 million of the budget is for parks and recreation projects

Parks & Recreation

150,000 square feet of indoor recreation amenities
375,000 visitors at Recreation facilities
8,600 youth sports participants
4,100 adult sports participants
15 miles of paved trails
Over 250 acres of parkland
Over 900 acres of open space

Respectfully,
Sarah Solomon

Douglas County Real Estate

Mortgage Update- Here's What's Going On!

Sarah Solomon (Coldwell Banker) — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 17:19:04 -0600

Mortgage Update from Mark Afman

As you know this last year has been an interesting year for the Mortgage (and therefore the Real Estate) industry. Many changes have occurred and many more are on the way. The so called "sub-prime" crisis has caused many companies to go out of business. Many loan officers are now out of the business and many are having to learn a new way of doing things.

From a program standpoint, there are virtually none of the No-Doc or No Verification loans available. Stated income loans are still available but the guidelines are much tighter. For example, It is extremely difficult for a W2 employee to get a stated income loan and self employed buyers will have to have a higher credit score and underwriters are being much more careful to make sure that the income that a self employed buyer "states" is legitimate.

You may have read in my last update or heard it on the street that the front range counties have been deemed to be in a declining market. From a loan stand point that means that if a particular property is red flagged as being in a declining market, the maximum Loan To Value (LTV) of the loan product that the buyer is using may be reduced by 5%. In addition, the Mortgage Insurance companies are now starting to restrict the type of programs that they will insure or at the very least they are reducing the LTV that they will issue insurance on.

Probably the biggest issue that you will be running into this year will be values, or more specifically appraisal legitimacy. Appraisals will be more heavily scrutinized by the underwriters. An appraisal is not legitimate until the underwriter says it is.

I know all of the above is doom and gloom so I also want to talk about the bright spots in the coming year. First of all interest rates are way down. Right now both Conventional and FHA 30 year fixed loans have rates in the mid to low 5% range. All of the issues above are affecting the conventional loan programs more then the FHA programs. Appraisals and value are an issue no matter what program the buyer is using but the declining markets are only affecting conventional (Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac) loan programs. We will probably see an increase in the FHA loan limits up to $417,000 early this year. The FHA update legislation is working it's way through congress now. In addition, CHFA has assured us that they will continue to support the 100% loan programs that they have regardless of the declining market label. CHFA is not just for first time buyers and not just for low income or small purchase prices. You can get more info on the CHFA loan at www.CHFAinfo.com.

More good news for the Real Estate market is that the Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act has been signed into law. This will help take part of the financial burden off of sellers that are upside down and want to negotiate a short sale. This law prohibits the IRS from demanding income tax payments from sellers whose lender wrote off a portion of the loan balance. This will help sellers make the decision to sell without having to worry about a big tax bill. This law is good through 2010. Also, the income tax deduction for most mortgage insurance payments has been extended.

I want to finish on an upbeat note so I will tell you that more and more or my buyers are starting to experience something that used to be common place...they are having to compete for a property. Even when they have offered the asking price or higher they have been out bid and have to move on to something else. As I said, rates are very low right now and a friend of mine that works for a showing service is telling me that showings are up. All of this tells me that as we go into the spring of 2008, there will more buyers, values should stabilize and I believe that we will see a resurgence in the Denver area market.

One idea to keep in touch with your database or sphere is to contact them and let them know that in addition to having some good values on homes right now, rates are very low and that it may make sense to look at moving or at the very least doing a refinance. Anytime you help your contacts it makes you look good to them.

Feel free to call me with any questions or comments and I wish you great success in 2008.

Mark Afman
Senior Loan Consultant
Universal Lending
Delivering Your Long Term Mortgage Needs With Professionalism And Integrity

Direct 303-759-7392
Cell 303-905-2488
Fax 866-896-9240
Denver Board of Realtors 2006 Affiliate President
Denver Board of Realtors 2006 Affiliate Of The Year
South Metro Denver Realtor Association 2007 Affiliate Vice President

LIFE TIME FITNESS in Parker Colorado- Wow!

Sarah Solomon (Coldwell Banker) — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 17:11:07 -0600

Life Time Fitness Open for Bussiness in Parker!!!

Absolutely amazing- the "Ritz Carlton" of fitness centers hands down! There is NOTHING like this in Colorado.

Veronica Cruz member advisor gave my husband and I a personal tour late last week of the facility. This center will impress the most savvy fitness guru! It also caters to family's and provides FREE daycare while you work out! Wow- that is generous! Not to mention over 65+ classes such as yoga, hydro aerobics, kick-boxing... etc that are included in your monthly membership! This place is the size of a small mall!

A Few Tidbits worth mentioning....

HOW ABOUT A TRIATHLON?

This event brings the swimming, bicycling and running components of a traditional triathlon into one convenient location- INSIDE the gym!

You'll race against the clock as you start with 10 minutes in the lap pool, move to the cycling studio for 30 minutes and finish with a 20-minute run on the treadmill.

The total distance you cover across the course determines your score. Win a T-Shirt at the end!!!

Rock Climbing

Run Club

Racket-ball

Basketball

Football

Nutrition Coaching

Weight-loss Coaching

Advanced Personal Training

Cardio Training

Life Cafe and Nutrition Center

Life Spa and Salon- Ladies did I mention SPA? This is besides the Eucalyptus steam rooms in the locker rooms!

Again this is a must have for the locals in and around Parker. Located near South Parker Road and E-470.

Respectfully,

Sarah Solomon

Douglas County Real Estate

Common Question for First Time Home Buyers

Sarah Solomon (Coldwell Banker) — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 00:15:15 -0600

First Time Home Buyers

A common question I get around this time of year...

"Sarah, I just received my tax statement from the assessors office. It came in the mail and it states that I owe XXX dollars to the county- I thought I had paid my property taxes out of my mortgage payment every month?."

I ask them if they won the lottery and paid off their mortgage. Clearly, the answer is almost always "No Sarah" followed by a chuckle.

I love this question. One it tells me that when speaking to first time home buyers as their consultant I need to be educating them constantly throughout the process and the second reason why I love this question is that it is just another way for me to have the opportunity to chat with my clients, ask for referrals and develop lasting professional relationship with people that I truly care about.

Currently, I have a letter that I send out for my clients prior to their tax preparation with a copy of their HUD from closing. So they are totally prepared when filing their taxes for the year. I think with this it would be advantageous if I made a little comment about looking out for their tax statement and calling me direct with any questions. That way they don't have to feel as if they are asking a silly question. I remind my clients to be fully prepared when filing their taxes, what to expect from the mortgage company, if they qualify for a mortgage insurance premium write off, etc.

Usually, by the end of the conversation they are happy to know that they will actually be receiving money from Uncle Sam sometime soon. Something they never expected up until they owned their first home! This brings me true happiness.

I want my clients to feel confident about asking insightful questions. As their REALTOR I expect that they will always come to me with any of their real estate needs. Sometimes I am over joyed with gratitude because of my clients trust in me.

Delivering World Class Customer Service One Client At a Time!

Sarah Solomon

Douglas County Real Estate

Real Estate Review

Sarah Solomon (Coldwell Banker) — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 17:41:58 -0600

Real Estate Review

Wanted Share with Everyone- Great Article!

By Chris Hardy:

There is an old Chinese saying that states "The best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago; the second best time is today." The same can certainly be said about buying real estate. Historically, an investment in a home has provided a secure long-term appreciation opportunity. For example, an average home in Denver purchased 20 years ago has enjoyed a 250% increase in value during that time period (as calculated by the Office of Federal Housing Enterprise Oversight at www.ofheo.gov

That astonishing figure doesn't include any potential income gains from renting, realized tax benefits from mortgage interest deductions, and/or depreciation of the investment. It simply states that if you bought a house in Denver in 1986 for $50,000 it would be worth somewhere in the vicinity of $250,000 today, based on the average repeat sales in our area (individual subject properties may have seen greater appreciation than this number depending upon key variables like location, condition, upgrades, and original purchase price).

However, the most attractive aspect of real estate investing is that your initial investment expenditure can be a fraction of the cost of the total investment. In other words, you get to use a financial institution's money to build your own personal wealth. The person who bought that house for $50,000 probably financed the bulk of that purchase with a mortgage. Being patient is not one of our society's strong suits. Being patient with an investment requires many of the same things a growing tree does. You must plan where the tree will be planted to take full advantage of the fruit or the shade it will provide. You must have a vision of what that tree will look like when it reaches maturity. A real estate investment is no different. You need a vision for what the property is going to do for you.

Do you want a rental? Do you want a second home in the mountains? Do you have cash to spend or will you seek alternative financing options? How long are you willing to hold the investment before you will need to sell it to enjoy the return? These are just a few of the questions that need to be answered early in the investment purchase process. Too often, we get caught-up in the fervor of Reality TV where folks make and lose tens and even hundreds of thousands of dollars in a matter of weeks or months. Unfortunately, all we get to see are the dramatic extremes of winners and losers (otherwise we wouldn't watch).

In real life, there's a vast middle section of the real estate investment game that wouldn't be particularly exciting to watch on television but does provide most of the opportunity for steady, reliable financial gain. Colorado is on the brink of yet another change in our real estate market. The market is always changing, always looking for balance between supply and demand. It's no secret that our market has seen a significant shift over the last 4 years - and that's the good news! Our market didn't cool off over night as it has in areas of Florida, Nevada, and California. We've had no bursting bubbles or sustained depreciation. We have arrived at that moment in the real estate sales cycle where many indicators are showing signs of renewed vigor. If you wait, you may miss out on some tremendous opportunities currently available.

So, what about our tree? If you didn't invest in real estate 20 years ago, the next best time to invest in real estate is right now. Prices have corrected, inventories are dropping Colorado is positioned for a steady increase in jobs and people. Additionally, rental occupancy rates have increased and mortgage interest rates remain at historic lows. Set an appointment today with a Coldwell Banker Agent to provide you with guidance and analysis of the current market. She or he will be able to assist with answers to the questions most critical to achieving your stated investment goals.

Denver Metro Statistic

For October 2007, closed units were 6.9%. The Average sales price went down by 5.5%, as a result of the REO properties closing. The good news is that the listing market continues to tighten with a 2.7% decrease. Lessening supply is always good news. The million dollar market softened during the month of October by 22.4% in closed units.

Looking forward to NEW BEGINNINGS in 2008! Wishing you the Absolute Best Success!

Sarah Solomon

Douglas & Arapahoe County Real Estate

Littleton Loft for Sale- Great Area Close to Light Rail!

Sarah Solomon (Coldwell Banker) — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 17:55:41 -0600

Sarah Solomon | Coldwell Banker | 303.598.8738

3076 W. Prentice Ave #D, Littleton, CO

Loft near downtown Littleton! Perfect One Bedroom with Loft Area- French Doors Open to Spectacular Views of the Front Range!

1 Bdrm Condo

offered at $146,900

Year Built	1997
Sq Footage	980
Bedrooms	1
Bathrooms	1 full, 0 partial
Floors	2
Parking	1 Car garage
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$127 per month

DESCRIPTION

Step into this bright and open penthouse loft in Steeplechase! Absolutely Fantastic Views of the Front Range from Loft Area on Second Story! Vaulted Ceilings with Many Niches!Private and Peaceful Setting on Golf Course. Steps Away From Lake/Pond with Wildlife! Attached One Car Garage with Private Access to Unit! Jack and Jill Bath off Main Floor Master Suite! All Appliances Stay- Full Size Washer/Dryer! HOA Fees Include Water/Trash/Snow and Insurance + Pool! Impeccably Clean from Floor to Ceiling! Seller Says "Sell!!!"

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central heat	Fireplace	High/Vaulted ceiling
Hardwood floor	Living room	Office/Den
Dishwasher	Refrigerator	Stove/Oven
Washer	Dryer	Laundry area - inside
Balcony, Deck, or Patio	Swimming pool

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Garage parking	Guest parking	Clubhouse
Golf course	Lake

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Unique Pergo Flooring in Kitchen! Fantastic Views of the Front Range!

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Sarah Solomon

Coldwell Banker

303.598.8738

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jan 4, 2008, 1:52pm PST

Joyce Homes in Pradera - Castlewood Ranch- The Meadows and Spring Valley Ranch

Sarah Solomon (Coldwell Banker) — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 19:20:00 -0600

Joyce Homes is stepping up the incentives for buyers. I love their promotion focused on energy efficiency. I think it is wonderful that they are teaming up with Enviroments for Living and providing the client with a better home. My favorite location in Parker is Pradera. Joyce has built some extremely wonderful homes in this community. Thanks for letting me share!

Agents: Ensure you sign up for Joyce Homes passport.

Sarah Solomon

Broker Associate, REALTOR

Douglas County Real Estate

Wildlife Warning in Parker Colorado

Sarah Solomon (Coldwell Banker) — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 19:07:00 -0600

True Stories...

My husband wonderful person that he is has always been extremely protective of our animals. There was no question when we moved to Parker, CO. In fact, he was even more stressed out about letting them outside. Recently, Parker's own "Talk of the Town" newsletter came out with an article about the local wildlife here in town. The Animal Control Division had recieved multiple reports of "dogs being attacked and or/killed" by coyotes in their own back yards. Location- Caterberry Crossing.

Typical behavior for the animal. However, the town is wanting the residents to be fully aware of their surroundings even if it is in their own back yard.

Rules to follow and express to any client moving into the area...

Keep a watchful eye on all pets if they are outside
Regardless if it is daylight
DO NOT leave your cats outside unattended
DO NOT leave small to medium dogs or other small animals outside unattended
NEVER leave them outside over night (unless they are in a covered dog pen)
Fences DO NOT protect your animals from being attacked
DO NOT leave pet food outside
Coyotes can carry disease
If you are walking your animal keep it on a leash, avoid making contact with a coyote if it approaches you. Don't run instead yell loudly, act aggresively towards the animal and throw something at it like a rock/tree branch

Sarah Solomon

Associate Broker, REALTOR

Douglas County Real Estate

New Listing in Denver- North Mountain View

Sarah Solomon (Coldwell Banker) — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:47:09 -0600

Sarah Solomon | Coldwell Banker | 303.598.8738

494 E. 77th Place, Denver, CO

Open and Bright- Designer Touches Throughout! Modern Fixtures & Neutral Paints! Feel the Welcome in this Ideal Two Story!

3 Bdrm Single Family House

offered at $204,900

Year Built	2001
Sq Footage	1,684
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	3 full, 0 partial
Floors	Unspecified
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	5,500 sqft
HOA/Maint	$27 per month

DESCRIPTION

Bright and Full of Natural Light! Master Suite. Very Modern througout! Great Fixtures! Designer Touches! Dining area in Kitchen Extends to Patio Perfect for Entertaining! Newer Home! Close to Interstates! Easy Drive to Denver!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

High/Vaulted ceiling	Walk-in closet	Hardwood floor
Living room	Dining room	Breakfast nook
Dishwasher	Refrigerator	Stove/Oven
Microwave	Washer	Dryer
Laundry area - inside	Balcony, Deck, or Patio	Yard

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Assumable VA Loan

Seller contact info:

Sarah Solomon

Coldwell Banker

303.598.8738

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Dec 27, 2007, 1:23pm PST

Littleton Real Estate- New Listing

Sarah Solomon (Coldwell Banker) — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:44:45 -0600

Sarah Solomon | Coldwell Banker | sarahinparker@comcast.net | 303.598.8738

7683 S. Gallup Court, Littleton, CO

Ross Henderson Home in Bel-Vue Heights! Cul-De-Sac Location!

5 Bdrm Single Family House

offered at $340,000

Year Built	1973
Sq Footage	2,158
Bedrooms	5
Bathrooms	3 full, 0 partial
Floors	3
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	9,147 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Come Feel the Welcome of this Deftly Landscaped Home! Plantation Sudders in Master Suite! Covered Patio with Hot Tub Deck! Finished Basement with Built Ins! Formal Dining + Breakfast Nook! Wet Bar Area in Family Room with Huge Fireplace and Mantle! Enhance Your Life with this Charming Bel-Vue Heights Home! Close to All Public and Private Schools, Highline Canal, Paths and Recreation- Stunning Location! 10+++

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Fireplace
Hardwood floor	Family room	Living room
Bonus/Rec room	Office/Den	Dining room
Breakfast nook	Dishwasher	Refrigerator
Stove/Oven	Attic	Basement
Washer	Dryer	Laundry area - inside
Yard

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Sarah Solomon

Coldwell Banker

sarahinparker@comcast.net

303.598.8738

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Dec 27, 2007, 1:35pm PST

Douglas County Parker Colorado - Town Parks

Sarah Solomon (Coldwell Banker) — Thu, 13 Dec 2007 11:05:42 -0600

TOWN PARKS ~ Parker Colorado

20 Mile Historic Site

Put a little bit of History in your home town. Owned although not orginally by James Sample Parker the historic site grew and prospered. Converted to a blacksmith shop with equipment to shoe oxen and a general mercantile store to aid travelers coming through. The site is approximately 20 miles to the city of Denver. Learn more at Parker Area Historical Society.

Bar CCC Park

The tree is 110 years old. Parker has another large tree near 20 Mile Road and Mainstreet that they are worried about. The tree at Bar CCC Park has it's own concerns according to the town of Parker they have seen significant decay due to the trees age and species. In 2002 they re-enforced the tree with poles and cable to stop it from being any kind of danger. Although they did their best in 2005 a portion of the tree was lost. The town is considering placing a fence around the area. Learn more at Town of Parker.

Auburn Hills Community Park

A three acre park featuring a large multi-use sports field, butterfly garden, educational stations, weather stations, wildlife, astronmy and plant life. In addition to an outdoor seating area for class lectures. Amazing!

Stroh Ranch Soccer Fields

Near Cherry Creek located between Crow Foot and north of Stroh Road with access to Cherry Creek Regional Trail. Expansive play ground is approximately two regulation size soccer fields. With park and picnic area. Perfect play time for a Sunday afternoon.

Tallman Meadow Park

A total of 12 acres between Hilltop Road and Mainstreet near Canterberry Parkway. Near Idllywilde community voted "Best Community" two years in a row. A Colorado western themed parks offers picnic and BBQ facilities, two playgrounds and a multi-use sports field in addition to a baseball field as well. The park is also connected to the Tallman Gulch Regional Trail.

Salisbury Park

130 acres for equestrian uses in addition to four lighted baseball fields! Does Parker love baseball? Connects to other trails and parks.

O'Brien Park and H2O's Pool

Very popular place for the children of Parker and some adults too. Yet another baseball field and a basketball court with a large playground for the kids. Almost all concerts, fairs and festivals are held here yearly. You can purchase a session pass for the year- which the children sure appreciate!

Small town with a sense of community! Parker Colorado is a fun place to live and thrive!

Sarah Solomon

Associate Broker, REALTOR

Douglas County Real Estate

If I sold my own home...what would I do before putting it on the market?

Sarah Solomon (Coldwell Banker) — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 17:31:09 -0600

Interesting Thought!

Currently I am remodeling my home because I know what would sell it! As a REALTOR I see what makes the buyer happy and what doesn't.

My Punch List

Have home pre-inspected by my inspector.
Trim all trees and shrubs. Paint house. Clean & Caulk all windows. Add seasonal plants at porch area.
Clean garage.
Staged Closets (this is actually one thing that drives me crazy about showing houses is that owners usually place all they can in the closets- big mistake). Stage it make it look like a movie stars closet- especially if it is a walk-in closet.
Stage house. Remove anything I haven't used in the last 30 days.
Paint, bedding, curtains, furniture and accessories all have to match.
Stage bathrooms- as if you walked into a hotel. Towels- clean, fresh NOT used. NEVER used. Always use scents in bathrooms. I really like infusers.
Update lighting fixtures on second level.
Remove carpet and replace.
New paint in areas that may need it. Or touch up and clean walls to remove scuffs. Clean ceiling and ceiling fans as well.
Finish remodeling bathrooms (lucky me my husband owns his own tile business).
Install back-splash in kitchen and new tile counter-tops.

Now these are things I would personally do. My home is 10 years old and wouldn't compete with others in the neighborhood right now. I would suggest to a seller to view the competition with me in the surrounding area and see other peoples homes. Usually this includes new neighborhoods and model homes. It really helps them put things into perspective.

Key is not to spend too much money. But enough to make your investment yield a good return.