Simple Tips to Make Your Move Easier

Your needs as a homeowner change over time, and you need the right home to fit those needs. Accordingly, it’s highly likely that at some point in your future you will experience another moving day. While moving can be challenging, there are resources to make it easier. If you are remaining in your current area, your Windermere agent can continue to be a valuable resource on communities, schools, utilities, transportation, recreational opportunities, and more.

If you are moving out of the area, your agent can help you with a referral to another reputable agent in your new community. Many agents also have relationships with real estate-related service companies in their area whom they can call upon for information regarding title, escrow, mortgages, temporary housing, and moving services. They can also help guide you in your search as you learn more about new communities and relocation services.

You’ve decided to move. Now what?

Once you have reached your decision, it’s time to gather information, start making decisions and get organized. Begin by creating a “move” file to keep track of your estimates, receipts, and other information. If you’re moving for a job, some expenses may be deductible, so you’ll want the paperwork when tax time comes.

If you are moving out of the area, start researching your new community and ask your agent for help in finding a referral agent in your new area. You’ll also want to determine whether you want to rent first or buy immediately. Your new agent should be able to help you with your decision. Once you know where you’re going, you’re also ready to get estimates from moving companies.

Closing one door, opening another

After you have chosen a moving date and either hired a moving company or reserved a rental truck, it’s time to wrap things up in your old neighborhood and start establishing relationships where your new home is located. This is particularly important if you are moving to a new town/city. You may want to ask your current doctors, dentists, etc. if they have any referrals on care providers in your new location. Be sure to check their recommendations on your insurance company’s online provider search list. Once you arrive, you may also want to ask new coworkers, friends or the school nurse for their recommendations.

Contact your children’s school and/or day care and arrange for their records to be sent to their new school district or day care. Call your insurance agent about coverage en route to your new home and also arrange for insurance in your new home. Remember to contact utility companies to disconnect, transfer or end service in your current home and turn on service in your new home.

You’ll want to file a change of address form with the U.S. Postal Service, either online or at your local office. If you don’t know your new address, have them hold your mail at the post office in your new locale. Don’t forget to cancel or transfer magazine and newspaper subscriptions as well.

If you belong to a health club or other association, contact them about ending or transferring your membership. Some clubs require written notice before cancellation. Finally, contact your bank or credit union to transfer or close accounts; if you have a safe-deposit box, don’t forget to clean it out before you leave.

Starting the countdown

With moving day in sight, it’s time to get organized. Here are a few items to check off your list before you start packing:

  • Tie up loose ends. Be sure to send out an email or change of address cards with your new contact information to family, friends, and associates. Return library books and any other borrowed items you may still have.
  • Triage your possessions. Determine what you are taking with you; what you are giving away to friends, family, or a favorite charity; and what is going to the dump or recycling center.  If you have time, you can hold a garage sale or post items on craigslist.org or ebay.com.
  • Clean up. Drain all gas and oil from your mower, other machinery, gas grills, kerosene stoves and lamps, etc., before loading them onto a moving truck. Empty, defrost, and clean your refrigerator at least 24 hours before your move, and prepare other appliances for moving as well.
  • Have your car serviced. This is especially important if you are driving to your new home.

Packing strategies

If you are doing your own packing, start collecting boxes and/or buy them from your movers. It may take a few days to do your packing, so be sure to pack non-essential items first and label them carefully. If you have any valuables, it’s recommended that you take them with you as opposed to packing them. You risk the chance of losing those items if they’re packed away in boxes. It’s also smart to take along a box of essentials, including items such as toilet paper, paper towels, tape, soap, scissors, pens, paper, and your toiletries. That way you won’t have to track these items down once you’ve arrived in your new home.

For more information on how to make your move easier, visit our Moving Tips page here: How can I make moving easier? 

The post Simple Tips to Make Your Move Easier appeared first on Fort Collins Real Estate | Fort Collins Homes for Sale & Property Search.

New Listings Week of 11/21/2021

201 Ranch Acres Drive, Loveland, CO 80538

Listing Agent: Kailee Harvey

MLS 955406

Hobby farm in town! 1.51 acres with room for your goats, chickens, horses or other animals; complete with tons of perennials & mature landscaping, large backyard, paver patio, & several sheds/outbuildings for animals & no HOA. Home has been recently updated & features 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a sunroom, 2-car attached garage & 1.5 car detached garage/shop. Your own slice of country but minutes to shopping and amenities. Homes don’t sell in this neighborhood often! New AC, newer appliances & hardwood floors throughout the main level, new carpet in the basement, and a brand-new wet bar/partial kitchen in the basement. Tharp custom cabinets in the kitchen with new granite countertops. This would be an ideal space for multi-generational living or for extra income, as the basement features 3 bedrooms, a full bathroom, a partial kitchen, living room and separate entrance from the garage or back patio. Call (970) 331-2868 to schedule your private tour or click here for more information. 

 

1725 Springmeadows Court Unit B, Fort Collins, CO 80525

Listing Agent: Kyle Craft

MLS 955616

This lovely 2 bed/2 bath townhome style condo is located within the Springmeadows community and is what Fort Collins is all about! The location is ideal for anyone wanting to be close to trails, shops, breweries, restaurants, campus, and Old Town! Enjoy a low-maintenance exterior while still being able to make it your own with the covered patio in the back or with the garden beds in the front. With a few minor cosmetic improvements, this home will be perfect for nearly anyone wanting an affordable living situation in Fort Collins. Call (719) 244-7613 to schedule your private tour or click here for more information. 

The post New Listings Week of 11/21/2021 appeared first on Fort Collins Real Estate | Fort Collins Homes for Sale & Property Search.

New Listings Week of 11/21/2021

201 Ranch Acres Drive, Loveland, CO 80538

Listing Agent: Kailee Harvey

MLS 955406

Hobby farm in town! 1.51 acres with room for your goats, chickens, horses or other animals; complete with tons of perennials & mature landscaping, large backyard, paver patio, & several sheds/outbuildings for animals & no HOA. Home has been recently updated & features 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a sunroom, 2-car attached garage & 1.5 car detached garage/shop. Your own slice of country but minutes to shopping and amenities. Homes don’t sell in this neighborhood often! New AC, newer appliances & hardwood floors throughout the main level, new carpet in the basement, and a brand-new wet bar/partial kitchen in the basement. Tharp custom cabinets in the kitchen with new granite countertops. This would be an ideal space for multi-generational living or for extra income, as the basement features 3 bedrooms, a full bathroom, a partial kitchen, living room and separate entrance from the garage or back patio. Call (970) 331-2868 to schedule your private tour or click here for more information. 

 

1725 Springmeadows Court Unit B, Fort Collins, CO 80525

Listing Agent: Kyle Craft

MLS 955616

This lovely 2 bed/2 bath townhome style condo is located within the Springmeadows community and is what Fort Collins is all about! The location is ideal for anyone wanting to be close to trails, shops, breweries, restaurants, campus, and Old Town! Enjoy a low-maintenance exterior while still being able to make it your own with the covered patio in the back or with the garden beds in the front. With a few minor cosmetic improvements, this home will be perfect for nearly anyone wanting an affordable living situation in Fort Collins. Call (719) 244-7613 to schedule your private tour or click here for more information. 

The post New Listings Week of 11/21/2021 appeared first on Fort Collins Real Estate | Fort Collins Homes for Sale & Property Search.

New Listings Week of November 14th

2576 Trio Falls Drive, Loveland, CO 80538

Listing Agent: Kelly Swift

MLS 955106

You can be in by Christmas! This move-in ready 2 bed/2 bath ranch style home features an open, bright floor plan. Enjoy the fully upgraded kitchen w/granite, SS appliances, 42″ cabinets, soft close drawers & pull outs throughout. Fantastic cork floors, newer lighter fixtures, custom shades and upgraded baths (primary w/heated floor!). Wonderful community with a pool, modern clubhouse, park, lakes for fishing and kayaking and a 4- mile trail! Easy access to I-25, HWY 34, hospital, restaurants, schools, & shopping. With main level living, and a 2 car attached garage this home was built for both comfort and entertainment. The HOA covers all exterior maintenance, snow removal, landscaping, paint, roof and lawn maintenance. Beautiful and bright home w/loads of natural light that would fit well as a primary home, vacation home or investment property! Call (970) 310-4876 to schedule your private showing or click here for more information.

 

7011 W 11th Street Road, Greeley, CO 80634

Listing Agent: Rondi duPont

MLS 955102

Looking for a home with some elbow room? This 2 story home is situated on a half an acre with NO HOA in West Greeley. The 4 bedroom 4 bathroom home boasts an inviting living area with vaulted ceilings and a fireplace, a separate dining room and a kitchen with stainless steel appliances. The walkout basement is finished to give additional space to spread out in the home. But wait, there is more! The property has a 35×24 HEATED Workshop and 8ft garage door. Bring your RV and Camper! The entire property is fenced with a beautiful wood privacy fence. There is a romantic gazebo to enjoy the large back yard and an additional shed and chicken coop. This home has so much to offer. Don’t miss seeing it! Call (970) 401-0123 to schedule your private tour or click here for more information.

 

880 E State Highway 56, Berthoud

Listing Agent: Katie Robinson

MLS 955058

Spectacular, completely fenced horse property sitting on almost 5 acres. Wonderful views of Longs Peak and Front Range in a quiet location close to downtown Berthoud & I-25. For all those horse lovers: 3-stall Cleary Barn & working horse arena w/ 2 acre grazing pasture. This freshly painted home features hardwood floors, rich wood trim, gourmet kitchen with custom cabinetry, Corian countertops, glass cooktop, wall oven, double sink, SS refrigerator, & large island that opens to comfortable family room with gas fireplace. West side of the home is designed to take in the views from all rooms. Living room & primary bedroom have large bay windows with seating areas. Large veranda to enjoy sunsets & warm evenings. Fully finished basement w/ large game room, wet bar, media room & a guest suite. Great for entertaining indoors or out! Greenhouse & beautiful outdoor living space with brand new pergola to the east. Ditch rights included to lease water with potential of 250 bales of hay per year. Call (970) 430-9630 to schedule a private tour or click here for more information.

 

881 Village Drive, Milliken, CO 80534

Listing agent: Alexis Foster

MLS 955393

Come see this stunning, better than new, 2-story home. 881 Village Drive, Milliken has so much to offer including its amazing location across the street from the neighborhood school and open space. Recent updates include; water heater, all new interior paint throughout the home, mudroom remodel, additional electrical outlets in the garage including 220-volt wiring for a future garage heater/ac unit, garage insulation, and drywall, new light fixtures throughout the home, main floor bath remodel and new Stainless Fridge and Dishwasher in the kitchen just to name a few. Fully landscaped and fenced yard with a huge patio, perfect for summer BBQs. Full unfinished basement with bathroom roughed-in provides room to expand. This home is conveniently located for commuters, just minutes from I-25, Hwy 257 and Hwy 85. Additional amenities include a community pool, park, and recreational center. Call (970) 310-6999 to schedule a showing for this pristine home or click here for more information.

 

2708 Stonehaven Drive, Fort Collins, CO 80525

Listing Agent: Jon Holsten

MLS 955451

Fantastic four-bedroom home in the coveted English Ranch neighborhood! Boasting a wide-open floor plan with high vaulted ceilings and tons of natural light, your new home also features a large kitchen with lots of counter space and plenty of storage along with a separate dining area and living room with gas fireplace. Sprawling main level primary suite with 5 pc bath and large walk-in closet. Upstairs, you’ll find a loft, two additional bedrooms and a bath. Enjoy more elbow room in the finished basement with an oversized fourth bedroom, large rec area, bath and ample storage. Relax or entertain on the large outside deck overlooking the low-maintenance back yard. Three-car garage. Excellent location with paved walking trail to nearby schools, shopping and restaurants. Quick access to I-25. An incredible home and terrific value! Call (970) 237-2752 to schedule your private tour or click here for more information.

 

700 Frontier Court, Fort Collins, CO 80526

Listing Agent: Jon Holsten

MLS 955457

Beautiful four-bedroom ranch-style home at the end of a cul-de-sac in central Fort Collins! Your new home sits on a huge lot and boasts updates throughout. From the great kitchen with plenty of counter space and storage — to the family room with fireplace, separate living room and remodeled main bath — this home is move-in ready! Large primary suite with full bath and two additional bedrooms on the main level. In the finished basement, you’ll find a large rec area, additional bedroom with private bath, and an office/non-conforming fifth bedroom. New exterior paint — and new interior paint through most of the home. Relax or entertain on the front deck or in the incredible back yard with mature landscaping and large trees. Tire swing included! Close to schools, shopping, restaurants and everything this great community has to offer. An excellent home and incredible value! NO HOA! Call (970) 237-2752 to schedule your private tour or click here for more information.

The post New Listings Week of November 14th appeared first on Fort Collins Real Estate | Fort Collins Homes for Sale & Property Search.

Your Guide to Thanksgiving Events 2021

The year is coming to a close and Thanksgiving is just days away! Communities, locals and businesses are rallying together to finish the month off with a little holiday spirit and a whole lot of gratitude. See what Colorado has lined up for Thanksgiving Day and the year ahead:

 

 

Thanksgiving Day Run

Each year, cities across the state plan Thanksgiving Day runs & walks to raise funds for community organizations. The Mile High Turkey Trot in Denver is four miles long and has had 10,000+ participants in years past! Registration fees go toward United Way, an organization that assists families and individuals in poverty. Likewise, the Thanksgiving Day Run in Fort Collins has been going strong for 28 years now! This four-mile event is open to runners, walkers and kids in support of RamStrength, a local organization that supports cancer survivors. Lace up your shoes and start your Thanksgiving Day by giving back to those in need.  

 

 

Pop-Up Markets

Check out the Colorado Holiday Maker’s Market at the Aztlan Community Center. 80+ local vendors will be selling their handmade, high-quality products on Sunday November 28th from 12p-5p. The Wolverine Publick House will also be opening their doors to local artisans for the Little Zurich Open Air Holiday Market. This outdoor marketplace is free to attend and offers visitors the chance to participate in a variety of activities including candle dipping and wreath making while you enjoy ciders, wines and hot chocolates around the fire pit.

 

 

Free Horse Carriage Ride

Break up your holiday shopping with a horse carriage ride in Fort Collins! Head down to the Foothills Mall on Saturday November 27th from 5p-7p to enjoy a ride in a Clydesdale pulled carriage designed to give a slow tour of the shopping complex. Pick-up location is across from the Cinemark Theater and Bistro.

 

 

Holiday Lights

Ring in the holiday season by exploring the newly hung lights across Colorado! The Grand Illumination is held the day after Thanksgiving to bring the community together for the lighting of downtown Denver. The Denver Botanic Gardens, Denver Zoo, and Butterfly Pavilion will also be adorning their spaces with holiday lights, but the festive displays don’t stop there! Downtown Colorado Springs, Seven Falls, Estes Park, and Gunnison will all hold lighting ceremonies to show their holiday spirit.

 

 

Support the Rapids & Donate to a Great Cause

The Colorado Rapids, Major League Soccer Team in the Denver Metro area, have made it to the playoffs and will be playing the first Thanksgiving Day game in MLS history at the DICK’S Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City. This is a huge accomplishment in an of itself, but the league isn’t stopping there. For every fan inside the park prior to kick off of the Western Conference Semi Final Playoff, the Colorado Rapids and Kroenke Sports Charities will donate fifteen meals to the Food Bank of the Rockies. Show your support while helping families facing hunger this holiday season!

 

 

When in Doubt, Hike it Out

Show gratitude for the awesome state we live in by jumping on a trail at one of Colorado’s 41 state parks. Lory State Park, Eldorado Canyon State Park, Golden Gate Canyon State Park, and Cheyenne Mountain State Park are just a few areas that are worth exploring.

The post Your Guide to Thanksgiving Events 2021 appeared first on Fort Collins Real Estate | Fort Collins Homes for Sale & Property Search.

Mountain Views on Sprawling Acreage

880 E State Highway 56, Berthoud is a spectacular, completely fenced horse property sitting on almost 5 acres. Wonderful views of Longs Peak and Front Range in a quiet location close to downtown Berthoud & I-25. For all those horse lovers: 3-stall Cleary Barn & working horse arena w/ 2 acre grazing pasture. This freshly painted home features hardwood floors, rich wood trim, gourmet kitchen with custom cabinetry, Corian countertops, glass cooktop, wall oven, double sink, SS refrigerator, & large island that opens to comfortable family room with gas fireplace. West side of the home is designed to take in the views from all rooms. Living room & primary bedroom have large bay windows with seating areas. Large veranda to enjoy sunsets & warm evenings. Fully finished basement w/ large game room, wet bar, media room & a guest suite. Great for entertaining indoors or out! Greenhouse & beautiful outdoor living space with brand new pergola to the east. Ditch rights included to lease water with potential of 250 bales of hay per year. Call (970) 430-9630 to schedule a private tour or click here for more information.

 

The post Mountain Views on Sprawling Acreage appeared first on Fort Collins Real Estate | Fort Collins Homes for Sale & Property Search.

Mountain Views on Sprawling Acreage

880 E State Highway 56, Berthoud is a spectacular, completely fenced horse property sitting on almost 5 acres. Wonderful views of Longs Peak and Front Range in a quiet location close to downtown Berthoud & I-25. For all those horse lovers: 3-stall Cleary Barn & working horse arena w/ 2 acre grazing pasture. This freshly painted home features hardwood floors, rich wood trim, gourmet kitchen with custom cabinetry, Corian countertops, glass cooktop, wall oven, double sink, SS refrigerator, & large island that opens to comfortable family room with gas fireplace. West side of the home is designed to take in the views from all rooms. Living room & primary bedroom have large bay windows with seating areas. Large veranda to enjoy sunsets & warm evenings. Fully finished basement w/ large game room, wet bar, media room & a guest suite. Great for entertaining indoors or out! Greenhouse & beautiful outdoor living space with brand new pergola to the east. Ditch rights included to lease water with potential of 250 bales of hay per year. Call (970) 430-9630 to schedule a private tour or click here for more information.

 

The post Mountain Views on Sprawling Acreage appeared first on Fort Collins Real Estate | Fort Collins Homes for Sale & Property Search.

Record Increase

Home builders have experienced their largest-ever increase in building costs so far in 2021.

This is according to the latest Producer Price Index report.  

Year to date, building costs are up 14.5%.  This amount tops the previous record of 7.1% which occurred in 2008.

Specific materials which have seen significant increases include lumber, drywall and steel.

The price of steel has risen 117% this year.

These material cost increases combined with increases in items like building permits and tap fees are causing home builders to raise their sales prices.

The post Record Increase appeared first on Fort Collins Real Estate | Fort Collins Homes for Sale & Property Search.

New Listings Week of Nov. 8th

6620 Tamarax Court, Loveland, CO 80538

Listing Agent: Jon Holsten (970) 237-2752; MLS 954837

Enjoy a quiet lifestyle, breathtaking views and wildlife on this beautiful three-acre property tucked along popular Glade Road in the foothills west of Loveland and Fort Collins. Your new home features a light and airy kitchen with plenty of cabinetry, wood floors and updated lighting. Step from the kitchen to a private deck surrounded by trees, perfect for entertaining and relaxing. Back inside, you’ll find a huge dining area with wood floors adjacent to the sprawling living room with a stone encased wood-burning stove. Nearby flex space with a separate outside entrance is perfect for a large office equipped with its own kitchen and second fireplace. All three bedrooms are on the second level, including the master suite. Attached two-car garage and a separate detached garage with two bays. Storage Shed and RV parking. Peace and serenity at its finest.

The post New Listings Week of Nov. 8th appeared first on Fort Collins Real Estate | Fort Collins Homes for Sale & Property Search.

Price Matters

Almost twice as many sellers now have to drop their list price before a sale compared to July.

In October, 19% of all sales were forced to drop the list price before receiving an offer.  In July it was 10%.

These properties that start out priced too high end up taking four times as long to sell compared to those that are priced right on day one.

The bottom line is this- price matters even in a strong market.

The post Price Matters appeared first on Fort Collins Real Estate | Fort Collins Homes for Sale & Property Search.