Countless groups and organizations offer winter hikes and activites.  Such as the Flatirons Ski club, which will take you all over the state to ski Colorado.  Both nordic and downhill skiing are available.  What a great way to get outside and meet new people. 

One of my personal favorite Clubs is known as FIDOS or Friends Interested in Dogs and Open Space.  If you have a dog, love the outdoors and enjoy meeting people in your community this is a great club for you.  These two organizations are just a few of the the local groups which help make our winters a bit more fulfilling.  Click HERE to see more local organizations…. 

     Near the Boulder 1 Plaza lies a small ice rink for local skaters to get their fix on.  Who doesn’t enjoy ice skating and hot coco?  Head down there on wed. or Thursday nights and watch a new game that is taking off in popularity here in Boulder.  It is known as Broomball.  A game that mixes hockey and good times into one.  With a brooom-like stick, large ball, and pads teams face off to beat one another in some pretty good competition.  Weather it is 8 degrees or 40, these Broom ball gurus are out there battling for local pride.   For those of you who want a bit more compeition in their Broomball games there is an indoor league at the local rec center you can join. 

Another local Boulder benefit is done by a guy who appreciates a good cross country course.  I met this individual a few years ago and trust me he only does it for the people.   Every time we get a fresh snow he heads out in his truck and grooms a track for cross country skiiers at Morning Side Park, near 9th and Balsam.  From six in the morning to six at night you can find outdoor junkies getting a good workout in or just enjoying the snow.  It is worth the effort and we thank you Boulder Groomer. 

Come to Boulder and check out why our winters are anything but Cold and boring.

The Hotel Boulderado throws one of the most elegant celebrations in town and it all began the eve before their grand opening in 1909.  The gala includes a dinner and dance package with lavish food and music provided by Dressed In Black.

Leftover Salmon is playing at the Boulder Theater – a 20 year legacy.  A little Boulder Theater history…it opened in 1906 as Curran Opera House by wealthy billboard sign owner James Curran and the venue featured opera, musical productions and silent movies. In 1927 the first talkie, “The Jazz Singer”, was presented by Warner Brothers. With the advent of the motion picture, all live performances ceased as the theater became a movie house from 1927 to 1978. During the Depression, the theater kept going with double features and “Country Store Nights”, when sacks of groceries were given away to those in the lucky numbered seats.  Spending New Year’s Eve in the historical and romantic Boulder Theater will be a night to remember.

If you’re thinking food, consider Jax Fish House.  Reservations will be needed for this 4 course meal at @ $75.   More dining opportunities include Centro, Salt, and join Bacaro this New Year’s Eve for an evening full of celebration! They will serve a 4 course meal with a glass of champagne at $45.00 per person.  Along with a midnight toast, there will be a live band

This next event sounds fun! It’s held at the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Artfrom 9-1 and tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door.  Entertainment includes video art installations featuring image remixes from the age of black and white cinema by Tres Altman and Boulder Community Media. Throwback and Jazz-influence party soundtrack provided by  DJs: Josh Haimes + DJCJ. Live music by Fellow Citizens. Red bar and lounge sponsored by elephantjournal.com. Wear your best black and silver cocktail attire and enjoy local art, live music, and free desserts + a champagne toast.  100% of proceeds to benefit the museum and support 2010 arts programming.

Family friendly activities include the Children’s Musuem of Denver, WOW Children’s Museum in Lafayette, and Ice Skating in Boulder. 

First, The Children’s Museum of Denver is ringing in New Years Eve just like Times Square! With five ball drops every hour from 10am-2pm, children of all ages can yell the countdown, watch colorful confetti splash the plaza and make fireworks with their feet when they jump on massive sheets of bubble wrap. Make cool art activities, watch exciting theatre performers, and so much more!

Or celebrate New Year’s Eve at WOW! Children’s Museum! There will be a special musical performance by acclaimed children’s musician Eric West at 11:00am! Noise maker crafts, refreshments, and special New Year’s countdown at noon!

Don’t miss The Ice Rink at One Boulder Plaza which is located in the heart of downtown Boulder, just one block off the historic Pearl Street Mall. Enjoy outdoor ice skating and winter cheer with family and friends. The Ice Rink is surrounded by eclectic cafes, restaurants and shopping. Visit The Ice Rink, where winter memories are made!

See you around the town and Happy New Year!

Our listing, 11793 Pleasant View Ridge in Longmont is located within the Elms Meadow Vale Subdivision and the PRICE has been LOWERED 50k!  Within walking distance to Union Reservoir and Sandstone Park, this 5 bedroom, 5 bath home really stands out with its modern and contemporary upgrades.  Conveniently located near I-25, Ft. Collins, Boulder, and Denver, the home has views from every direction and the subdivision is well-maintained with a community park.  You’ll love this home, click here to view the details.

This is a stunning home, immaculate and move-in ready with PREMIUM updates throughout.  It was custom-built in 2006 with a gourmet kitchen including slab granite countertops, butlers pantry, double oven,  and all stainless steel appliances.  The open and spacious floor plan makes it great for entertaining and family gatherings.  Beautiful hard wood floors, modern lighting, and the high-quality custom tile backsplash make this a dazzling kitchen you’ll love to cook and entertain in.  Here you’ll find access to the new patio with custom built outdoor gas grill station.  Spend many evenings from this backyard enjoying views of the plains.  You’ll often see many horseback riders right outside your back door.  This home is located on one of the best lots in the neighborhood because of its privacy.  As you can see, there are no neighbors located directly behind the home and on one side, is a well-maintained grass lot, giving seclusion to the neighbors on the south.  As we go back inside, just off of the kitchen, you’ll find the huge great room with high ceilings and fireplace.  The custom-tile the owners added around the fireplace is amazing and unique.  The high windows let in plenty of light making this an inviting room for the family to hang out after a busy day.  Just off the great room is a main level study with venetian plaster wall finish and double french doors.   Off the kitchen you’ll enjoy the separate and eloquent dining room including a raised ceiling with more venetian plaster.  It’s beautiful and admired by all guests. 

As you enter the front door, you’ll be delighted by the foyer and open staircase. 

 As you reach the top of the stairs, overlook the great room and check out the amazing views. 

Upstairs is a master suite unlike you’ve ever witnessed before.  Unique wall paint add to the contemporary feel and enjoy the ooh’s and aah’s you’ll receive from all who see it.  The master suite includes a 5 piece master bath and sitting area. 

 Again, check out those views!!!!

There are three more bedrooms upstairs with a jack and jill bathroom. Perfect for a family with children or a family who has a lot of company.  The home has over 5700 square feet which includes a new finished basement.  Many of the homes in this neighborhood do not have the basement, making this home one of a kind.  A pre-wired mother in law suite or a nanny suite is located in the new basement with a spacious 5 piece bathroom.  The tile floor is luxurious and classy.  Your mother in law, nanny or guests will be totally impressed.  The basement also includes another office or workout room.  It is also great for entertaining or family night with a gathering area and theatre/media room.  Are you a musician?  This room makes a perfect studio.  And the entrance way to this room includes a dazzling tile floor, which does not go unnoticed by any guest to the home.

  From $549,000 to                 $485,000

 Don’t miss the opportunity to see this home and call me for a showing!

Front Range

A newer subdivision along the Front Range of Longmont Colorado that needs your attention is Prospect; a part of Boulder County.  After recently hosting an open house at our newest listing, I truly discovered that people love this neighborhood.  Curious neighbors and potential homebuyers couldn’t stop the positive comments about wanting to live and loving to live in Prospect Colorado.  Find out why… 

Sometimes referred to as a neo-traditional community, Prospectis located on an 80 acre tree farm which developer,  Kiki Wallace , bought from his family.  His dream was to build a distinctive project that would minimize negative impacts on the land.  And according to Linda Keseric, this New Urbanist community features narrow, tree lined streets connecting homes to numerous parks and public amenities, shops, and offices. Home types include detached houses, townhouses, courtyard houses, apartments, and live/work lofts. Mature trees have been planted along Prospects streets and in its parks to provide the shade and privacy typical of an established community.

You know, there are numerous arguments out there stating that because of poor city planning, riding bikes and taking buses becomes more of a challenge.  That is why neo-traditional communities incorporate the necessity to  reduce car use into the planning of roads and shopping. An ingenious idea!  And talk about a diverse mixture of colors throughout the community.  It’s bright with varying textures and architectural styles and sizes.  Prospect is perfect for everyone…seniors, families, singles and pets!  You can easily walk anywhere.

I enjoyed walking around the neighborhood and chatting with the locals.  Everyone was so friendly; the community was bustling with shoppers, families, bikers, and lots of dogs.  I stopped at Vic’s Coffee shop and had one terrific breakfast burrito.  They are more reputable for their great tasting coffee – definitely a local favorite!  Other places to enjoy include Two Dog Diner,  The Rib House, and Caper’s & Co.   Other places you must visit are Sushi Jianken, Prospect Flower Shop, and Tusk Lounge.

Our new listing is in the perfect location within walking distance to shops and restaurants.  Quick and easy access to Main Street in Longmont for any commuters and it’s close to Boulder, Union Reservoir, and Denver. 

Built on extra lot, this home provides a large, fenced yard with a carriage house.  This  brings in additional income of $1300 per  month.

The gourmet kitchen is fabulous with top of the line appliances and a center island that makes a magnificent statement. 

Almost every room invites you to the outside through many french doors, patios & balconies.

There are 3 fireplaces, two 2 car garages + added parking pad. The finished basement has a family room with a fireplace, bedroom and bath. 

The 3rd level offers an extra bedroom or bonus playroom/office. 

The property on Neon Forest is over 3700 square feet! 

Spacious, open, sunny and spectacular – just like the entire neighborhood of Prospect.  Let us help you find out more about this great community!

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First on our list is The Flagstaff House.  Located part way up flagstaff road at 6,000 ft, the drive alone gives you one of the best views of the city of Boulder.  Originally a cabin built in 1929, this family owned restaurant has become well known and liked by locals and visitors.  Not just Boulder’s but Colorado’s premier dining experience combines an award-winning wine list with exquisite food.  The great Vitner’s rooms allow a 20,000 bottle wine cellar to be viewed by the restaurants patrons.  Please CLICK HERE for a more details about the Flagstaff House.

If you are looking to see the “greener/healthier” side of Boulder’s fine dining restaurants, you can not pass up the Sunflower.  It’s location on Pearl street makes sunflower a prefect choice. Sunflower provides a delicious array of food that satisfies and promotes your good health. Their menu states, “Your meal will be prepared from specially selected fresh, whole foods without any preservatives, chemical additives, or artificial ingredients of any kind.”  Certified organicially grown  foods are used in preperation.  It is truely a unique experience.  CLICK HERE to find out more about Sunflower.

Here are a few more I would suggest you check out while in Boulder: The Kitchen on Pearl St.  This European bistro is the whole package when it comes to fine dining experiences.  Ras Kassas Ethiopian is so close to the real thing it will leave you speechless.  Brasserie 10 10 offers French-inspired cuisine for lunch and dinner you should go and see for yourself.  

Please if you are a bit hungry after reading this come visit Boulder and its fine dining restaurants.  They won’t let you down

CHECK HERE

You may ask, “How do you establish the trust, that face to face relationships are best at, via the web?”  Go to one of the sites and see for yourself.  The users give you access to their lives through their profile, which consists of: pictures. self descriptions, school and job histories, stories, their friends, and their friends’ friends, and the list goes on and on.  We need to socialize ourselves, not in the traditional way, but rather the virtual way.  Anyone interested in staying connected with the web will need an ever changing early-adopter attitude.  The web is always changing and requires our utmost attention to stay up with it.

Your Profile

Here are a few of the social sites that I am connected with and recommend you get connected with as well:

CLICK HERE TO SEE

First is FaceBook.  The most visited social networking site there is. It is not a site just for connecting with your third grade buddy, no no no.  It’s a way to view profiles of people with the same interests as you.  It is a way to view people in your area who are connected with similar interests as you .  Ultimately it is a way into millions of people’s lives through information they choose to share, which you will find is quite a lot. Here are some of the baffling stats of Facebook.

More than 300 million active users,    50% of our active users log on to Facebook in any given day,    The fastest growing demographic is 35 years old and older,   Each friend has an average of 130 friends, over 2 billion photos uploaded each month,   over 14 billion videos added each month.

Twitter is a great site that gives you up to the minute updates to individuals.  Twitter is a free service that lets you keep in touch with people through the exchange of quick, frequent answers to one simple question: What are you doing?  Use Twitter to productively market, promote, converse, or network to millions of followers.  It is your job to provide value to your followers so they will promote that value to others.  They will watch your every move and wait for your next post.  With generation X and Y wanting their info. so immediate, this can be a extremely valuable service to them.  Primarily a service useful in business, and many people have used twitter in their business.  See for yourself here.  Here are a few stats on Twitter.

55 million visits every month, it is the third most visited social network, 72.5% of all users have joined since January 2009, 93.6% of users have less than 100 followers, while 92.4% follow less than 100 people.

YouTube is a website we have all visited, but how many of us have posted a video?  Founded in 2005 it has since become the second most trafficked social networking website.  YouTube is a platform used by individuals to express, connect, inform, and inspire others who view their content.  This can be another valuable service in any profession.  Musicians, real estate agents/brokers, comedians, teaching, filmmakers, and professional content providers are just a few of the professions taking advantage of YouTube.  You can share your talents and expertise thus establishing trust with a client you have never met.  Express yourself publicly or privately and gain subscribers awaiting your newest video.  It is easy to do and effective.  Perhaps your next video will be the newest number one gaining close to 23,000,000 views.  Now that’s good advertising.

A “Few”Tube stats.  Every minute ten hours of video is uploaded into YouTube, 150,000 videos uploaded daily, over 100,000,000 videos to view, It would take over 450 years to watch all the videos…

So now that you know all the advantages these social networks have to offer try a few out.  I recommend FaceBook and Blogspot.com.  Soon you will have hundreds of new contacts and new friends as well as reconnecting with old ones.

Concrete Jungle

After a few urban switch backs you return home and know something is missing.  ”Might as well have ran on the treadmill”, you tell yourself.  You are missing the trees, the grass and the overall open space that are ideal for a jog with your dog.  Your answer to this problem is Boulder Colorado.

Boulder Colorado is one of the best outdoor towns in the country.  The lands teem with native plants and wildlife and are home to threatened and endangered species. Our open spaces serve as a buffer zones between Boulder and nearby development, so in the future Boulder will look as beautiful as ever.  These land provide us with untold benefits to the natural environment – clean air, water, and earth.  Don’t you want to be surrounded by such an environment?

Open Space Everywhere

It is Boulder’s citizens who, through many years of planning and action, have created and maintained these special lands.  As early as 1898 Boulder citizens were showing their appreciation for conservation, when they purchased Chautauqua Park right next to the foot of Flagstaff Mountain.  Through a community charter and efforts by the people, we have and continue to preserve our green lands.  Ranked #1 Sports Town in America by Outside Magazine, our town offers you plenty.  With over 45,000 acres of open space, most of which goes directly through our town, Fido will never be board again.  Creek paths, green parks and mountain trails are only three of the many options you will have.  Hikers and their dogs, bikers, horseback riders and others are welcome to explore over 200 miles of public hiking trails. Get lost in the wilderness and never leave Boulder.    Boulder’s beauty is in its conservation of wilderness, come join and help preserve Boulder.

Get Started

1.    find the perfect home,
2.    complete a contract,
3.    satisfy any contingencies,
4.    secure financing, and
5.    negotiate inspection

BY NOVEMBER 30th!!!  

I would say time is out!  Now, it is so important for Congress to Extend and Expand the tax credit ASAP!

The $8,000 tax credit expires December 1st.  The usefulness of the credit diminishes daily if the credit is not extended well before that date explains The National Association of Realtors.

The Association goes on to say that the credit has been a success as homebuyer interest peaked and home sales increased.  Today’s lower prices and interest rates appeal to customers but it’s the tax credit that really drove clients to open houses and to home-ownership.  But a homeowner is only eligible for the tax credit before December 1st which rushes the process of finding a home, completing a contract, satisfying contingencies, securing financing, and making it to the closing table by November 30th.

According to Seven News, more than 27,000 Colorado homebuyers have taken advantage of the credit.  This week, the White House said its economic team is evaluating the credit’s impact on home sales and will make a recommendation to President Barack Obama. There have been more than a dozen bills introduced in Congress to prolong the life of the tax credit past the Nov. 30 deadline, and on Thursday Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid endorsed the idea of extending the credit for an additional six months. The housing market has been devastated in Reid’s home state of Nevada. 

If you would like to take action urging Congressto expand and extend the homebuyer tax credit, write a letter and let them know.  I would say that the tax credit did help boost the economy, but it wasn’t enough.  Why not extend it another year?  Besides the tax credit, what else could be done?  Something has to be done about appraisals.  For instance, deals are falling through much too often these days because of a poorly done appraisal.  Anyway, don’t get me started.  What do you think should happen?

Our listing, 11793 Pleasant View Ridge in Longmont is located within the Elms Meadow Vale Subdivision and the PRICE has been LOWERED 50k!  Within walking distance to Union Reservoir and Sandstone Park, this 5 bedroom, 5 bath home really stands out with its modern and contemporary upgrades.  Conveniently located near I-25, Ft. Collins, Boulder, and Denver, the home has views from every direction and the subdivision is well-maintained with a community park.  You’ll love this home, click here to view the details.

This is a stunning home, immaculate and move-in ready with PREMIUM updates throughout.  It was custom-built in 2006 with a gourmet kitchen including slab granite countertops, butlers pantry, double oven,  and all stainless steel appliances.  The open and spacious floor plan makes it great for entertaining and family gatherings.  Beautiful hard wood floors, modern lighting, and the high-quality custom tile backsplash make this a dazzling kitchen you’ll love to cook and entertain in.  Here you’ll find access to the new patio with custom built outdoor gas grill station.  Spend many evenings from this backyard enjoying views of the plains.  You’ll often see many horseback riders right outside your back door.  This home is located on one of the best lots in the neighborhood because of its privacy.  As you can see, there are no neighbors located directly behind the home and on one side, is a well-maintained grass lot, giving seclusion to the neighbors on the south.  As we go back inside, just off of the kitchen, you’ll find the huge great room with high ceilings and fireplace.  The custom-tile the owners added around the fireplace is amazing and unique.  The high windows let in plenty of light making this an inviting room for the family to hang out after a busy day.  Just off the great room is a main level study with venetian plaster wall finish and double french doors.   Off the kitchen you’ll enjoy the separate and eloquent dining room including a raised ceiling with more venetian plaster.  It’s beautiful and admired by all guests. 

As you enter the front door, you’ll be delighted by the foyer and open staircase. 

 As you reach the top of the stairs, overlook the great room and check out the amazing views. 

Upstairs is a master suite unlike you’ve ever witnessed before.  Unique wall paint add to the contemporary feel and enjoy the ooh’s and aah’s you’ll receive from all who see it.  The master suite includes a 5 piece master bath and sitting area. 

 Again, check out those views!!!!

There are three more bedrooms upstairs with a jack and jill bathroom. Perfect for a family with children or a family who has a lot of company.  The home has over 5700 square feet which includes a new finished basement.  Many of the homes in this neighborhood do not have the basement, making this home one of a kind.  A pre-wired mother in law suite or a nanny suite is located in the new basement with a spacious 5 piece bathroom.  The tile floor is luxurious and classy.  Your mother in law, nanny or guests will be totally impressed.  The basement also includes another office or workout room.  It is also great for entertaining or family night with a gathering area and theatre/media room.  Are you a musician?  This room makes a perfect studio.  And the entrance way to this room includes a dazzling tile floor, which does not go unnoticed by any guest to the home.

  From $549,000 to                 $499,000

 Don’t miss the opportunity to see this home and call me for a showing!

Boulder is centrally located within an hour from Denver, the airport and El Dora ski resort, making it an ideal location. There is a one of a kind outdoor scene that very few places can offer.  Hundreds of hiking trails, rivers/creeks, and endless extreme sports are just a few of these attractions our town has to offer.  Come explore…..

If it’s a night life you desire head to Pearl street for countless restaurants, pubs bars, and shops.  Trust me there is something in Boulder for you.

Come on over midwesterners our weather is unbeatable.  With over 300 days of sun a year (more than San Diego or Miami) there are pleanty of chances to get outside and enjoy yourself.  A moderate winter and perfect spring break up the year just right. click here for details. Make sure you do not forget about all the SNOW. Snow junkies enjoy world class mountains only a few hours from our great city.  Vail, Winter Park, Beaver Creek, and Breckenridge are just a few.  Both with over 10,00 acres to ski, Vail and Winter Park will keep you skiing new terrain for years.  Come and ’ski’ for yourself!!!

Intellectuals welcome.  We are one of the most educated towns in the country.  Forbes Magazine ranked us “America’s Smartest City” in 2008. More than 92% with a high school diploma, more than 52% of us have a bachelor’s degree or better, and close to 4% with a Ph.D.  With plenty of good schools to choose from and a State University to match, bring your kids to a stimulating environment to grow up and learn in.

ACCOLADES

1) 2002-ranked #1 Thinnest City – by Self Magazine      2) 2002-ranked Americas 50 Healthiest Places to Live – by USA Today      3) 2003-ranked BEST Overall Place to Live – by Mens Magazine     4) 2003-ranked Best Cities for Singles – by Forbes Magaznine , 2004-ranked Best Place in the Country for Singles – by Forbes      5) 2004-ranked Best Cities for Relocating Families (Boulder/Longmont) – by Worldwide ERC and Primary Relocations      6) 2005-ranked #1 Best Place to Live – by Mens Journal  &  #1 Best Place to live – by Successful Meetings       7) 2005-ranked 50 Fabulous Gay Friendly Places to Live – by book by Greg Kompes        8) 2006-ranked Top ten Places to Retire – by Bottom Line Retirement  & 2007-ranked Best Places to Retire – by US News and World Report.com  &  2008-ranked Top Ten Brainiest Places to Retire – by US News and World Report

and the list goes on and on………………CLICK HERE TO SEE

These are just a few of the reasons so many folks have chosen Boulder as their home.  Come here and see all the others for yourself…. We will be waiting.