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Where Can You Find 25 Cowgirls Dancing On A Bus?
June 21st, 2010 Categories: Boulder Subdivisions and Neighborhoods, Colorado Round Up
Billy Banjo’s Bus Tours, of course! So, let me tell you what I partook in last evening. It all began in Boulder Colorado where a group of good friends decided to do a customized bus tour (with a cowgirl theme no less). Dressed to the nine;, we were decked out in boots, rodeo shirts, big-buckled belts, and cowgirl hats! Even Banjo Billy had on his chaps as he drove us downtown to Pearl Street and up to Chatauqua. Now, if you’ve never seen or heard of this bus, you have to have to realize that this is not your average tour bus. And if you’re a group of twenty five cowgirls, get ready to whoop, yeehaw, dance, and party your way around town. You’ve got to read more.
I’ve lived in Boulder a long time so I know about the bus tour and often see it parked outside of the Boulderado picking up passengers, however I did not know (until last night), just how fun it could be. Did you know that you can choose a tour and that they are offered in Denver and Boulder? Here’s what Banjo Billy himself has to say about his tours. Banjo Billy’s Bus Tour gives history tours of Boulder and Denver Colorado from an old school bus tricked out to look like a traveling hillbilly shack. Hear ghost tales, crime stories, and history while sitting on a couch, recliner or saddle as the bus rolls through the core of the cities. You won’t forget this bus tour!
Although the bus follows the same route every time, no two tours are alike. Passengers get to vote at multiple stops for what they want to hear about – whether it’s a ghost story, a bizarre tall tale, or historical facts. The tour is 90 minutes long, but we guess you’ll be hoping for more.
Our tour was unique. After the historical stops entailing stories of ghosts and crime, we made our way to the Dark Horse for quick lemon drop shots. Then, we headed to Lyons to the Outlaw Saloon, of course. We were cowgirls after all. That was the end of the road for Banjo Billy as he had another tour to do, but it was only the beginning for us outlaws! This Saloon has karaoke and yeehaw!, we sang and swung our partners and had an overall BLAST!
Thanks John (aka Billy Banjo) and Thanks Ladies! Let’s go on tour again soon.
Written by Julie Johnson | Discussion: No Comments »
All Aboard! Rhythm On The Rails And More!
June 13th, 2010 Categories: Boulder Subdivisions and Neighborhoods, Colorado Round Up, Focus on Boulder
Don’t miss out on all the free summer concerts happening in Boulder County like the Award-Winning Rhythm on the Rails in Niwot Colorado. It’s a ten week summer concert series held every Thursday at Whistle Stop Park featuring bands such as Elephant Revival, Hazel Miller, Bonepony, 
The Strolling Scones, and more great performaces. Niwot is located just 5 miles east of Boulder and is known for its charming community. While listening to awesome music, enjoy food from local vendors and shopping! See you at the bandstand! Click here for more summer concerts, fairs, and music opportunities.
Summer events include:
When: June 12th-August 7th. Get ready for some fun dancing and live music on Saturdays directly on the 29th Street mall (corner of 29th & Canyon).
There is free parking. The view is amazing and the sunset can’t be beat. Restaurants and shopping include Borders, Laudisio Restaurant, Cantina Laredo, and Bath & Body Works.
When: September 4th-6th. Wrap up the summer in Boulder’s Central Park. The three days of performances includes Great American Taxi, The Fables, and Nina Storey. As the unofficial end to summer in Boulder, the three-day Boulder Creek Hometown Fair features unique events and entertainment, such as the Great Zucchini Race, the Chili Inferno Cook-Off, Big Wheel Races, interactive sports expos, a food court and beer garden, live music, children’s activities, and much more. 303-449-3137.
Formerly brought to you by the Longmont Symphony Orchestra, the Longmont Oktoberfest is an established event held in Longmont’s Roosevelt Park each September. Now brought to you by the award-winning production & management team of Boulder Creek Events, Oktoberfest features three days of great live music, local breweries, arts & crafts exhibitors, and kids’ rides and attractions. There’s something for the whole family at the Longmont Oktoberfest!
2010 Dates & Times: Friday, Sept. 10 (5-10pm); Saturday, Sept. 11 (11am-10pm);
Sunday, Sept. 12 (11am-5pm)
Location: Roosevelt Park (849 Coffman St. in Longmont)
BOULDER COUNTY FAIR AND RODEO
Aug. 3-7: The oldest county fair in Colorado is now in its 141st year. The schedule has been scaled back from nine days to five, but each day is jam-packed with events and activities. Parking and gate admission are free, plus many of the events are free. Every day is kids’ day, with scavenger hunts, hands-on activities, animals and storytimes. See you there!
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Written by John Vaughan | Discussion: No Comments »
Advice On How To Bike To Work And Still Smell Ok…..
June 6th, 2010 Categories: Boulder Subdivisions and Neighborhoods, Colorado Round Up, Focus on Boulder
Yes, I am seriously writing about this! I need to write a fun blog and since it’s Bike and Walk to Work Month, why not? June is the designated month for biking and walking to work and the month is filled with events in Boulder Colorado. Bike to Work Day will be held on Wednesday, June 23. It is presented by GO Boulder and coordinated by Community Cycles. First celebrated as Bike to Work Day in 1977, the event has grown and continues to encourage thousands of commuters to explore their transportation options. Serious facts provided by the City of Boulder about 2009:
Way to go Boulder!!!!! Now for some not so serious information on how to realistically bike to work and not stink out your co-workers.
As a Realtor, I would love to bike to work more often on days that I know I’m not showing buyers around, but how practical is it when you work with the public to show up sweaty and possible smelly? Well, here’s how……
Tip #1: Stash a supply of clothes at the office. Wear your bike clothes to get there, then change. How hard is that? Plus, if you keep the wardrobe at the office ahead of time, you don’t have to tote the extra backpack.
Tip #2: Along with the clothes, have a handy supply of toiletries. Wipes, deodorant, lotions….you get my point. When you arrive, use the restroom to rinse up a bit, then spritz a little rose or lavender water onto your face and hair – yes, even you boys. Or witch hazel, it might be a little more manly.
Tip #3: Dress appropriately. You are going to get hot, so dress light even if it’s chilly at first. Also, leave earlier in the morning. Getting to work earlier than usual will impress your boss, plus you need the extra time to freshen up using Tips #1 and #2 noted above.
Tip #4: Carry light. Along with Tip Number One, not only the extra clothes and shoes, but leave the laptop & day planner as well.
Tip #5: Forget about all this and just smell. This is Boulder after all, chances are your co-workers like the odor or probably stink themselves because they also biked to work. We are saving the planet and helping to lessen our dependence on foreign oil (stop the war!)! Who cares what you smell like.
All funny business aside, if you are looking to know more about the Boulder Community, contact me for more information. And click here for the most complete Walk & Bike Month schedule.
Written by Julie Johnson | Discussion: 1 Comment »
Rockygrass – is that some kind of new weed?
June 2nd, 2010 Categories: Buyer's Corner, Colorado Round Up, First Time Buyers, Focus on Boulder, Mountain Living
Well - in Boulder Colorado it could be! With over 40 dispensories, growers, in home care services and herbal medicine shops just in Boulder alone with ” medical marijuana” names such as Bubbua Kush or Blue Dream. 
Nope! In fact Rockygrass isn’t something you plant or smoke! It’s a bluegrass festival in Lyons Colorado that happens every year in July. Lyons is located 15 miles north of Boulder Colorado and the festival is held at Planet Bluegrass Ranch on Hwy 35 just northwest of Lyons. Just 25 minutes from Boulder and 1 hour from either Denver or Ft. Collins it’s known as one of the best bluegrass festivals around the country. Three Days of sun, music, river wading and floating, good food, camping, and exquisite scenery! Check out this years music lineup! – Doc Watson, Sam Bush, Tim O’Brien, and Tony Rice, just to mention a few. Read on for more info
If you are planning to visit Boulder Colorado during the summer, make sure you check out the Rockygrass lineup of musicians for that year and buy your ticket(s) in advance (they go on sale in Jan or Feb) because they sell out quickly. My family visited me the summer of 2008 and we went to all 3 days of the Rockygrass festival. Not only was the music fantastic, but 
during the hot mid day sun we spent hours in the North St. Vrain river cooling off. No matter where you are sitting in the park, you have good views and the music just surrounds you! If you need a break you can visit the small quarry town of Lyons where they have restarants and antinque stores. You could schedule a morning mountain biking at Hall Ranch or touring Rocky Mountain National Park, or take a ride into 
Estes Park and have lunch. There is camping at Planet Bluegrass Ranch and there is also local lodging close by in Boulder or Longmont. I found that my Verizon cell phone worked well, but some other service providers were a little spotty. As much as you love your dog……please leave Spot at home, there are way to many young, old, dancing, singing people and children around – so NO DOGS. I found it easy to buy my tickets online at www.shopbluegrass.com or call them at 800-624-2422. Have a great summer in Boulder! Call or email the Troia Team if you are making a visit to Boulder any time soon. We offer free tours of the area! Lyons Colorado is a nice affordable alternative to Boulder and close enough to be able to participate in the Boulder Fun!
Written by Karen Cifala | Discussion: 1 Comment »
Colorado Children’s Day: Boulder County Family Week
May 6th, 2010 Categories: Boulder Subdivisions and Neighborhoods, Colorado Round Up, Focus on Boulder
Got kids? How about family visiting from out of town? Well, this is your week Boulder County Colorado! It’s family week, which obviously means a weekends worth of activities designed for the whole gang. If you’re from Lafayette, enjoy time spent at the Bob Burger Recreation with FREE ADMISSION for the kiddos! The Longmont Museum and Cultural Center is hosting hands-on games including a water game and solving the Sweet Beet Puzzle. Keep reading for more details on these activities and more.
One participating organization, Bob L. Burger Recreation Center, which is a 47,000 square foot recreation center housed on 20 acres of parkland. This multi-use area features a 4-field youth sports complex, an in-line hockey rink and the City’s outdoor classroom. These amenities provide the community with a wonderful focal point for great family recreation.
Mention Boulder County Family Week and youths 2-17 will receive free admission with an adult’s paid admission May 1st – 7th. Their address is 111 West Baseline Road in Lafayette and their phone number: (303) 665-0469.
Next is the Longmont Museum and Cultural Center hosting a hands-on day of water games, solving puzzles, using a digital microscope, playing with buffalo and crow costumes, creating your own town, and fin hidden treasures in the Long’s Peak room. They are located at 400 Quail Road and the next family day date is May 7th from 9-10:15, 10:15-11:30, and 12:30-2. Ages 2-5 with a parent.
Another great event is held at Playfair Toys on 2550 Arapahoe in Boulder which involves making a craft for mom. It’s on Saturday at 11:00am. Ages 3 and up and you can reach them at (303) 444-7502.
Check out Reverence Academy of Dance where a kickin’ swing class will be taught. Also in Lafayette at 1370 Minders Dr #103 on Friday May 7, 5-6:30pm. Ages include 7 and older with parents.
If you would like more information on family activities in Boulder and real estate trends in the area, subscribe to our site and receive updates. I’d love to hear your ideas for the weekend. See you around town!
Written by Julie Johnson | Discussion: No Comments »
No Phone Zone Pledge
May 3rd, 2010 Categories: Colorado Round Up, Focus on Boulder, Mountain Living, Trends
The Troia Team is supporting the newest initiative instigated by Oprah Winfreyherself. NO TEXTING WHILE DRIVING! While it’s a nationwide promise, we are honoring it here in Boulder Colorado as real estate agents and concerned members of our city. It all began in a local community near our county, Fort Collins Colorado when earlier this year, Shelley and Daren Forney, lost their 9-year-old daughter. Erica, who was on her bicycle, just 15 pedals from her front door when she was hit and killed by a driver who was distracted by the cell phone. Erica’s death was senseless and stupid because it was caused by a phone call that just couldn’t wait. Just recently I was driving next to someone who had both hands on their phone and their elbows were on the steering wheel…….”steering”!!?!?!? I was scared to be on the road next to him. Read more about this important cause and help to prevent unnecessary deaths and accidents.
Sadly, there are far too many stories like Erica’s. At least 6,000 people were killed by distracted drivers in 2008, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. And if you think that’s a large number, well, it’s only growing. But hopefully, this will change and work is already being done to do so. President Obama signed an executive order banning texting while driving on federal business. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood is pushing for tougher laws and more enforcement. States are passing laws, too. Local groups are gaining strength, spurred by too many deaths close to home. Join the Troia Team in taking the no phone zone pledge. Remember what life was like before texting existed? Can we recollect the era of just driving with both hands on the wheel, observant and quick to respond? I recently saw a study that was performed on drunk drivers and drivers who were texting. The drunk drivers were quicker to react than the cell phone users when stopping and response time. That is why we should just drive. Everything else can wait. That’s the Troia Team pledge. So, what about you? Are you going to take the oath not to text also? Subscribe to our site and comment on how you feel about it.
Written by John Vaughan | Discussion: No Comments »
Why Coldwell Banker? The Whole Story.
April 25th, 2010 Categories: Buyer's Corner, Colorado Round Up, First Time Buyers, Focus on Boulder, Real Estate Tales, Selling Thoughts
The Coldwell Banker Story. 
I’ve been on a lot of listing appointments lately with spring arriving here in Boulder Colorado and included in the listing presentation are reasons why to choose Coldwell Banker. I, myself even had to ponder the reasons why to choose one brokerage company over another when becoming a real estate agent. Upon intensive research and endless appointments with recruiting office managers, I went with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage and The Troia Team. Here’s why I did and why you should as well.
The history of our residential brokerage is fascinating and proves this company comes with experience – over 104 years old in fact! Yes, legacy has it that the origination of Coldwell Banker began to evolve in 1906 after the devestating earth quake and fire. Saddened economic times resulted and contemptuous business practices emerged. Two men sought to change the way companies were operating by creating a real estate firm that was based on the principles of honesty, integrity, and professionalism. Our accomplishments to this day are proof that we are the most successful and influential brokerage. Check out the video.
QUESTION: How did we get our name?
ANSWER: The two men who founded our company were Colbert Coldwell and Benjamin Banker.
Why should you list with us? What sets us apart?
The tangibles: 1) Reality Check from ColdwellBanker.com, Previews (homes over $700,000), Colorado Homes On Demand, and CBAgentInfo (agent’s source for all needed links and resources).
We are ahead of the times and always updating our marketing strategies. See us on YouTube, social networks such as Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace.
Our direct marketing campaign includes CB direct connect which is a monthly promotional email. Your new listing or open house can also be distributed.
The Troia Team utilizes Proquest which is the 1-800 number on the top of your yard sign. It allows potential buyers to call on the sign and gather more information regarding the home. They are immediately contacted by a Troia Team Realtor, making for the quick sale of your home.
Let’s not forget about Leadrouter. When I put your home in the multiple listing service, it also goes to websites such as coloproperty.com, Realtor.com, Zillow. Buyers are able to inquire about a listing through the website and again, they are promptly contacted by an agent.
….300 Websites and COUNTING!!!!
Most importantly and as our history demonstrates, our company follows the values you must have in a Realtor: Integrity, Honesty, and Professionalism. Contact me today for a free market analysis and subscribe to our website for up to date news.
Written by John Vaughan | Discussion: No Comments »
Rockies Baseball 2010
April 21st, 2010 Categories: Colorado Round Up, Mountain Living, Relocating
The Troia Team Realtors of Boulder Colorado love Rockies baseball. Because we also love our clients, we throw a client appreication game day each year in which we provide free Rockies Tickets and a pre game party. Last year it was held on the rooftop of LoDos, serving food and beer. Then, we all headed to the game, providing free popcorn and snacks. It’s always a blast. Many of you have already participated in a game, forever loyal to your local Denver team. Read more about the Rockies season and history.
Here’s the most recent news according to Jeff Siedel: Aaron Cook battled uncharacteristic control problems Monday night, and his early troubles helped Washington score five quick runs en route to a 5-2 victory over the Rockies before 11,623 at Nationals Park. Cook (0-2) labored through his three-inning stint. He threw 83 pitches (just 46 strikes) and gave up five runs on seven hits, walking four and striking out two while repeatedly falling behind in the count.That’s what forced the right-hander to face nine batters in the second and eight more in the third. Cook’s biggest problems came with Willie Harris, who hit a three-run homer in the second and a sacrifice fly in the third.Clint Barmes got an RBI double for Colorado (6-7) in the third, and Miguel Olivo added a sacrifice fly in the fourth. Washington starter Craig Stammen (1-0) threw eight strong innings, giving up just two runs on five hits.The loss ended a nine-game Colorado winning streak against the Nationals, dating back to late in the 2008 season, and was the franchise’s first loss in Nationals Park.
Click here for this season’s schedule.
HISTORY:
The Colorado Rockies are a Major League Baseball team based in Denver, Colorado. Established in 1991, they started play in 1993, the Rockies play in the West Division of the National League. The team is named after the Rocky Mountains, which pass through Colorado, just west of Denver. The Rockies play their home games at Coors Fieldin downtown Denver. After previous failed attempts to bring the Major League Baseball to Colorado (most notably the Pittsburgh Pirates nearly relocating to Denver following the Pittsburgh drug trials in 1985), by the early 1990s a team seemed to be a possibility in Denver. The Colorado Baseball Commission, led by banking executive Larry Varnell, was successful in getting Denver voters to approve a 0.1 percent sales tax to help finance a new baseball stadium. Also, an advisory committee was formed in 1990 by then-Governor of Colorado Roy Romerto recruit an ownership group. The group selected was led by John Antonucci, an Ohio beverage distributor, and Michael I. Monus, the head of the Phar-Mor drugstore chain. Local and regional companies—such as Erie Lake, Hensel Phelps Construction, KOA Radio, and the Rocky Mountain News—rounded out the group. On July 5, 1991, the National League approved Denver and Miami, Florida, as the sites for two expansion teams to begin play in 1993.The Rockies joined the National League in 1993, along with the Southern Florida franchise, the Florida Marlins. The Rockies’ first pick in the expansion draft was pitcher David Nied from the Atlanta Braves organization. Nied pitched 4 seasons for the Rockies.
If you’d like to be a part of our unique and fun client appreication party, subscribe here and you will receive up to date real estate news and client appreciation party details.
Written by Julie Johnson | Discussion: No Comments »
Real Estate And Lead Based Paint In Boulder Colorado
April 17th, 2010 Categories: Buyer's Corner, Colorado Round Up, Home Inspections and Maintenance
This is more than important information to know if you are buying, selling or renovating real estate in Boulder County and anywhere in Colorado. As many of you know, if you sell or rent a home built before 1978, you must disclose that your home may contain paint that contains lead. Not only is there a disclosure form to sign, but a pamphlet that highlights the paint’s risks, especially to children. But did you also know that a new law will go into effect this month? Read on to obtain this essential piece of knowledge.
Here’s the law according to the EPA, which signed a new regulation regarding the renovation of child-occupied buildings built before 1978 on April 22, 2008. The rule becomes effective April 22, 2010. Under the rule, beginning in April 2010, contractors performing renovation, repair and painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in homes, child care facilities, and schools built before 1978 must be certified and must follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination. EPA’s RRP rule impacts many construction trades, including general contractors and special trade contractors, painters, plumbers, carpenters and electricians. Activities performed by all of these trades can disturb lead-based paint and have the potential to create hazardous lead dust. For most individuals, eight hours of training is required. However, individuals who have successfully completed renovation courses developed by HUD or EPA, or an abatement worker or supervisor course accredited by EPA or an authorized State or Tribal program, can become certified renovators by taking a four hour EPA-accredited renovator refresher training.
Before hiring a contractor, consider the following before performing the renovation to your home built before 1978:
1. Safety first. If any contractor is pushing you to do upgrades prior to the rule change to cut costs, they probably would not have been safe to begin with.
2. Verify the contractor is licensed, bonded and insured.
3. Has the contractor received the lead paint certification? If not, find out what their safety practices are to avoid contamination and when they are getting certified.
4. Contact references from previous work. If no references available, move on.
5. Get at least 3 detailed bids to compare costs of different contractors. Pay attention especially to the labor costs as that is where the fees will increase due to the new rules.
6. If subcontractors are required for the job, will there always be at least 1 certified lead paint contractor on site?
7. Referrals of qualified contractors from family, friends and co-workers is a great place to start. Ask The Troia Team, we can help. And if you would like up to date real estate news, subscribe to our website.
Written by John Vaughan | Discussion: 2 Comments »
Shrink Your Home Loan: Obama’s Foreclosure Prevention Plan
March 31st, 2010 Categories: Colorado Round Up, Market Conditions, Market Watch, Selling Thoughts
The following is a true story.
I have a family member who bought her home in 2005. The economy was better then and real estate was hot in Boulder Colorado. Prices were high, inventory was low, and banks were more lenient with loan qualifications. She makes over $50,000 and has a steady job. However, she just had a baby and would like to buy a bigger home. As expected, she got her home ready to list and had the home appraised first in order to determine a price.
What do you guess happened? Click here to find out.
The home under appraised for the amount she owed. This means that unless she absolutely has to sell (short sale), then she’s stuck. It doesn’t matter that her job is secured or that she makes enough money from a stable company or that her credit is unscathed. Home values went down in her area for whatever reason and she was struggling with what to do. Renting her home out was one option but in order to loan on a second house, she would need 25% down. Not impossible, but a stretch. She thought about short selling then renting a larger home for a couple of years, but why damage her credit? It’s tough out there people, but new hope is imminent as the government plans to “shrink” home loans. The plan will allow mortgagors who owe more on their mortgages than their properties are worth, get new loans backed by the Federal Housing Administration. Participating mortgage companies such as Bank of America will slash the amount owed and the homeowner will receive an incentive. Also, the plan includes help to families who have suffered a job loss with temporary assistance.
STATISTIC: Nearly one in three homeowners are under on their loans!
Possible plans: monthly payments would be reduced by lowering mortgage rates to as low as 2 percent for five years and extending loan terms up to 40 years. To complete the program, homeowners need to go through a three month trial period and provide proof of their income, plus a letter documenting their financial hardship.
Though $75 billion in funding is available to the more than 100 lenders who have signed up, only a tiny fraction has been spent. Lenders had received $58 million in incentive payments as of last month, according to the Government Accountability Office.
So, do you suffer from the economic crisis through no fault of your own? Join the club, but take advantage of this plan! Subscribe to our site for up to date mortgage and real estate information. Do you want to know if you qualify? Let us know and we will help.
Written by John Vaughan | Discussion: No Comments »
