Dumb Friends League Wag 'n Trail Saturday September 25, 2010 : Things to do in Highlands Ranch Colorado Dumb Friends League Wag 'n Trail Date:  Saturday, September 25, 2010 Time:  8:00 a.m. Venue:  Glendale Farm Open Space, Highlands Ranch, Colorado Address:  East Highlands Ranch Parkway and South Ranch Road Phone:  (303) 751-5772 x 1378 Website:  www.ddfl.org Enjoy a hike with your dog on a 1.6 mile trail at the Glendale Farm Open Space.  The fund raising event includes vendors, fly ball demonstrations and more.  Participants are encouraged to collect pledges and earn prizes, all while helping thousands of homeless pets.  All proceeds will benefit the Dumb Friends League Buddy Center in Castle Rock.  The 2010 Wag 'n Trail is sponsored by Hills Science Diet. 09/22/2010

Cake Decorating Clinic at The Makery Wednesday September 22, 2010 : Things to do in Highlands Ranch Colorado The Sugar Arts Academy is being held at The Makery in Centennial Colorado (okay it's not Highlands Ranch but they're right next door!) tonight at 6:00 p.m.  I had to include this blog because I am just hooked right now on the show Amazing Wedding Cakes on WEtv Sunday nights.  Enjoy! Date:  Wednesday September 22, 2010 Time:  6:00 p.m. Venue:  The Makery, Centennial Colorado Address:  8203 S. Holly Street, Centennial, CO  80122 Phone:  (720) 270-4042 Learn advanced cake decorating techniques.  Desiree, our Food Network featured instructor will demonstrate advanced sugar art.  Past topics included gum paste flowers, chocolate techniques, and advanced fondant.  Please check the onli... 09/22/2010

Mother and Son Masquerade Ball Friday September 24, 2010 : Things to do in Highlands Ranch Colorado   MOTHER & SON MASQUERADE BALLFRIDAY, SEPT 24, 6:30PM-8:30PMHIGHLANDS RANCH MANSION Please join us for an unforgettable evening for mothers and sons. Creating special memories, the evening includes a complimentary mask, dancing to a DJ, a commemorative photo, food from Boston's Pizza, and a fun craft. Photography by: Barry Staver Photography. Additional prints available. Photos will be available for pick up at registration at the Recreation Center at Eastridge by Saturday, October 2 and must be picked up by December 1. Photos will not be held past that date.Member $25 each person attending; Program Guest $33 each person attending; Day of the event $33 each person attending, if not sold ou... 09/21/2010

Open House Beautiful Highlands Ranch Home Sunday September 19, 2010 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Looking for the perfect home in Highlands Ranch Colorado?  One that has peak to peak mountain views?  One that has open space views?  A three-car garage?  How about three bedrooms plus a large loft with built-in book cases?  A main floor laundry?  A great room with a large family room?  A 921 square foot unfinished walk out basement just waiting for your personal touch?  A deck and a patio?  A front porch?  Walking distance to the local dog park, two people parks including Civic Center Park and the Highlands Ranch Town Center with all of its fantastic amenities like the Tattered Cover Book Store, Home Depot, Cold Stone Creamery, Fat Burger, The Egg and I, The Old Blinking Light, The Corner Bakery,... 09/19/2010

Carson and Barnes Circus September 17 - 19, 2010 : Part 3 Concessions and FAQ : Things to do in Highlands Ranch Colorado Part 1 Opening Day Events Part 2 Show Highlights It's stupendous!  It's spectacular!  It's the biggest Big Top on earth!  And it's coming to Highlands Ranch.  The Carson & Barnes Circus presents artists from around the world.  Two Giant Wheels of Death, acrobats, jugglers, wild animal acts, Miller's Prancing Ponies, flying trapeze, and hilarious clowns.  Carson & Barnes Circus is complete with tons of elephants, numerous domesticated exotic animals like hippopotamus, camels, llamas, equine, and many others.  The Big Top is the largest on the planet measuring 144 feet by 180 feet.  More thrills, chills and excitement than ever before.  Carson & Barnes Circus is two hou... 09/18/2010

Oktoberfest Saturday September 18, 2010 2:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. : Things to do in Highlands Ranch Colorado Town Center South (map) FREE to attend! Gather your family and friends together for great food, music, and, of course, great beer. Imbibe German beers from Paulaner, and enjoy German entertainment.It’s an evening of non-stop entertainment for the kids, too. Children will enjoy magic, balloons, and games until their hearts are content.Oktoberfest is a cultural experience that is sure to delight the little ones while you and your friends sample a variety of beer or just enjoy a beautiful Colorado evening outdoors. Family & Children's Entertainment Live Music Games, Rides & Inflatables for the Kids Magician/Balloon Artist Dachshund Races - Gift Baskets for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place w... 09/18/2010

Carson and Barnes Circus September 17 - 19, 2010 : Part 2 Show Highlights : Things to do in Highlands Ranch Colorado Part 1 Opening Day Events It's stupendous!  It's spectacular!  It's the biggest Big Top on earth!  And it's coming to Highlands Ranch.  The Carson & Barnes Circus presents artists from around the world.  Two Giant Wheels of Death, acrobats, jugglers, wild animal acts, Miller's Prancing Ponies, flying trapeze, and hilarious clowns.  Carson & Barnes Circus is complete with tons of elephants, numerous domesticated exotic animals like hippopotamus, camels, llamas, equine, and many others.  The Big Top is the largest on the planet measuring 144 feet by 180 feet.  More thrills, chills and excitement than ever before.  Carson & Barnes Circus is two hours of the finest in family ... 09/17/2010

Carson & Barnes Circus September 17 - 19, 2010 : Part 1 Opening Day Celebration : Things to do in Highlands Ranch Colorado Date and Time: Friday, September 17, 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, September 18, 1:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m., and 7:30 p.m. Sunday, September 19, 1:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. Location: Lucent & Plaza in Highlands Ranch Parking: There is ample parking on the south side of Plaza Drive in the business park. It's stupendous!  It's spectacular!  It's the biggest Big Top on earth!  And it's coming to Highlands Ranch.  The Carson & Barnes Circus presents artists from around the world.  Two Giant Wheels of Death, acrobats, jugglers, wild animal acts, Miller's Prancing Ponies, flying trapeze, and hilarious clowns.  Carson & Barnes Circus is complete with tons of elephants, numerous ... 09/16/2010

The Sterling Ranch development in northwest Douglas County unveiled its latest plan for a 3,400-acre community that aims to set a new standard for private development.Situated just south of Chatfield Reservoir on the west side of Highland Ranch and Colorado 85, the 10-year-old project aims to break ground within the next two years. With a 20-year goal to build more than 12,000 new housing units on the parcel owned by a family team of developers, the project is being funded by the family of developers and so far is debt free. This will give them a huge advantage in this market because they can be in control of how many homes can be built at once so as not to rush the project and cause financial strain as they continue to build. The developmental team is also taking on a new approach to r... 09/15/2010

Artists from around the world will arrive for shows on September 17th, 18th and 19th to be held at Lucent and Plaza of Highlands Ranch. Acts which include jugglers, acrobats, Two Giant Wheels of Death, animal acts, prancing ponies, clowns and the flying trapeze will be held under the largest Big Top on Earth. Kids under 12 who dress like a clown can enjoy the opportunity to march behind the promenade of clowns into the Big Top. Show times are September 17, at 4:30 PM and 7:30 PM – September 18, at 1:30 PM, 4:30 PM and 7:30 PM – September 19, at 1:30 PM and 4:30 PM. The circus is an annual event in Highlands Ranch which my family enjoys. We will see you there. 09/15/2010

August 2010 Condominium Real Estate Market Statistics Highlands Ranch Colorado Not unlike the market statistics for residential homes, condominum and town home properties sold in August 2010 show a decrease from August 2009 sales.  However, in the case of condominiums and town homes the decrease is even more significant.  When you consider that during this period last year there was a push to reach the final date of the original 1st Time Home Buyer Tax Credit a reduction in sales was probably expected, but this significant? Residential home prices in Highlands Ranch Colorado have remained fairly steady with a modest adjustment, again from the push for the tax credit last year vs. more moderate prices in 2010.  Condominum and town home's lost significantly more value when compared to las... 09/14/2010

August 2010 Real Estate Market Statistics Highlands Ranch Colorado Not surprisingly the number of Residential properties sold in August 2010 was down from August 2009 (-23.3%) when you consider that during this period last year there was a push to reach the final date of the original 1st Time Home Buyer Tax Credit. Home prices in Highlands Ranch Colorado have remained fairly steady with a modest adjustment, again from the push for the tax credit last year vs. more moderate prices in 2010. Closed Residential - Douglas, Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree (DHL)       Category Aug, 2009 Aug, 2010 % Change # of Closed Sales - Month 146 112 -23.30% # of Closed Sales - YTD 1,008 1,010 0.20% Avg. Days on Market 78 82 5.10% # of Active Listings 692 796 15.00% # of New Listings 367 438 19.30% Absorption ... 09/14/2010

Clocktower Residences Condo Floorplans Released Dirt work has begun for the first of two condominum buildings at the new Clocktower development in Highlands Ranch Colorado.  Shops, cafés and diversions. A world of natural wonders at arm's reach. And an inspired blend of condominiums and townhomes in one of the country's Top 12 Places to Live. Welcome to Clocktower, in the haven of Highlands Ranch, where modern conveniences meet the tranquility of nature. From the brilliant big picture to the smallest of details, Cardel Homes and Clocktower have overlooked nothing. With a perfect balance of life, style and sanctuary, Clocktower offers true neighborhood vitality unlike anywhere else. Discover the rhythm of Clocktower living. Condo prices will start in the $150's and range from a 659 squar... 09/13/2010

Highlands Ranch Colorado Open House Sunday September 12, 2010 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Westridge Knolls Subdivision Join Sampron Sisters Sunday September 12, 2010 from 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. at 9725 Sun Meadow Street, Highlands Ranch, Colorado and tour this beautiful Highlands Ranch home. Located in the highly desirable Westridge Knolls neighborhood, where Kathy Sampron resides and is an expert in the local real estate market, this lovely two-story Richmond American home was built in 1998 and recently completely remodeled.  The largest model built by Richmond in the neighborhood at 2095 square feet, this home has four bedrooms upstairs as well as one on the main which can also be used as a fantastic office or study space.  A half bath on the main as well as a full and 5 piece upstairs complemen... 09/12/2010

Doggie Splash Sunday September 12, 2010 10:00 a.m. : Things to do in Highlands Ranch Colorado Recreation Center at Westridge (map) Doggie Splash 10:00 a.m. at the Westridge Recreation Center Doesn’t Man’s Best Friend deserve a day of leisure too? Join us as we open the Outdoor Pool at Westridge to our Four-Legged friends! Your Social Dog can enjoy a day of fun, swimming away the summer heat. Dog owners may also enjoy the many exhibitors, concessions and even a professional ‘Doggy Dip’ to quickly rinse their dog. Members: $5 per dog, Program Guests: $10 per dog. Nonrefundable. Limit two (2) dogs per adult.  Day of Event, all dogs $10/dog Sponsored by: Belco Credit Union 09/12/2010

Open House Beautiful Highlands Ranch Home Saturday September 11, 2010 12:00 noon - 3:00 p.m. Looking for the perfect home in Highlands Ranch Colorado?  One that has peak to peak mountain views?  One that has open space views?  A three-car garage?  How about three bedrooms plus a large loft with built-in book cases?  A main floor laundry?  A great room with a large family room?  A 921 square foot unfinished walk out basement just waiting for your personal touch?  A deck and a patio?  A front porch?  Walking distance to the local dog park, two people parks including Civic Center Park and the Highlands Ranch Town Center with all of its fantastic amenities like the Tattered Cover Book Store, Home Depot, Cold Stone Creamery, Fat Burger, The Egg and I, The Old Blinking Light, The Corner Baker... 09/11/2010

I'm a huge fan of Northern Virginia parks.  We are fortunate to have well managed local parks and national parks close by.  However I have yet to encounter any Bison at a Northern Virginia Park.This week I'm in Colorado and was out exploring a park just a few miles from Highlands Ranch.  Daniels Park is a 1000 acre park which has incredible vistas and Bison Herd and as well. Owners living close by the park have the opportunity to watch these magnificent creatures out their back windows everyday. It just makes you want to start singing "oh give me a home where the buffalo roam...." 09/08/2010

Highlands Ranch Colorado HUD Home for Sale $263,000 Incredible opportunity to purchase a HUD home in Highlands Ranch Colorado.  Bedrooms:  4 Bathrooms:  3 Garage:  2 Car Attached Square Footage:  2299 Above Ground + 1095 Basement (83% finished) Total Finished Square Footage:  3175 Year Built:  1995 Taxes:  $2,807 HOA:  $500 Annually Schools:  Bear Canyon Elementary, Mountain Ridge Middle, Mountain Vista High This information comes directly from the MLS. Bids are due on this property on or before September 12, 2010 at 11:59 p.m. If you are interested in seeing this home call Sampron Sisters of Home Real Estate, but hurry time is running out! 09/08/2010

Highlands Ranch Days September 9 - 11, 2010 Admission: $4 for adults, $2 for children (kids 2 and under are free). Tickets sold at the gate. The historic Highlands Ranch Mansion will come alive September 9-11 with livestock displays, Native Americans, a fur trapper, gold panning, wool spinning, mansion tours, horse drawn hay rides, a petting zoo and much more. History is fun and educational, especially at Highlands Ranch Days! Come celebrate your community's heritage at the Highlands Ranch Mansion. Explore the Mansion and discover bygone eras when fur trappers, gold panners, pioneers, hayrides and Native Americans roamed the land that we know as Highlands Ranch. Thursday & Friday 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Saturday 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Blacksmithing Historical Re-enactments Hay Rides Wester... 09/08/2010

Selling a Home in Today's Market : Part 1 Big Impact, Low-Cost Remodeling Projects While it is very true that today's market can be tough to sell in, it is also true that homes are still selling and in the Highlands Ranch Colorado market they're selling well.  However, as a homeowner there are things that you can do to help prepare your home for sale.  Over the next few weeks we'll cover a few of these tasks and get you ready to sell your home. There are low-cost remodeling projects you can take on to spruce up your home before putting it on the market.  I've borrowed several of these universal projects from a great article in a recent edition of Realtor Magazine and have added a few of my own that may not exactly fall under the umbrella of "remodeling projects" but can give you a lot o... 09/07/2010