Friday Fun Facts: Best Mountain Towns To Buy Property In The Next 5 Years

Fort Collins keeps landing on “best places to live” lists, proving it’s a top-tier city for anyone looking for an awesome hometown.  So it’s no surprise that it was recently named one of the four best mountain towns to buy a home in the next five years by GoMortageRates.com.

With an average home price of $554,755 and a modest 0.9% price change in the last 12 months, Fort Collins is experiencing steady growth. Located 60 miles north of Denver and home to Colorado State University, the city offers a family-friendly environment with excellent schools, a robust job market, a thriving arts community and outstanding outdoor recreation.

The COVID-19 pandemic triggered an unprecedented urban exodus, with remote work opportunities and health concerns driving Americans to less populated mountain regions, a migration that continues even years later.  Fort Collins and three other mountain towns offer promising real estate opportunities for those seeking a different pace of life.

Curious what other towns made the list?  Here they are:

Bend, Oregon

  • Average home price: $728,226
  • Strong rental demand from residents and tourists
  • Solid property appreciation potential
  • Attractive for diverse investment strategies

Blue Ridge, Georgia

  • Average home price: $491,808
  • Year-round tourism driving real estate market
  • Growing population with quality of life amenities
  • Robust short-term and long-term rental markets

Seattle, Washington

  • Average home price: $848,982
  • Home to 17 Fortune 500 companies
  • Unique mountain town with strong economic fundamentals
  • Expected population growth of 1 million by 2040
  • Challenging housing supply due to geographical constraints

Source: GoBankingRate.com

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Friday Fun Facts: Best Mountain Towns To Buy Property In The Next 5 Years

Fort Collins keeps landing on “best places to live” lists, proving it’s a top-tier city for anyone looking for an awesome hometown.  So it’s no surprise that it was recently named one of the four best mountain towns to buy a home in the next five years by GoMortageRates.com.

With an average home price of $554,755 and a modest 0.9% price change in the last 12 months, Fort Collins is experiencing steady growth. Located 60 miles north of Denver and home to Colorado State University, the city offers a family-friendly environment with excellent schools, a robust job market, a thriving arts community and outstanding outdoor recreation.

The COVID-19 pandemic triggered an unprecedented urban exodus, with remote work opportunities and health concerns driving Americans to less populated mountain regions, a migration that continues even years later.  Fort Collins and three other mountain towns offer promising real estate opportunities for those seeking a different pace of life.

Curious what other towns made the list?  Here they are:

Bend, Oregon

  • Average home price: $728,226
  • Strong rental demand from residents and tourists
  • Solid property appreciation potential
  • Attractive for diverse investment strategies

Blue Ridge, Georgia

  • Average home price: $491,808
  • Year-round tourism driving real estate market
  • Growing population with quality of life amenities
  • Robust short-term and long-term rental markets

Seattle, Washington

  • Average home price: $848,982
  • Home to 17 Fortune 500 companies
  • Unique mountain town with strong economic fundamentals
  • Expected population growth of 1 million by 2040
  • Challenging housing supply due to geographical constraints

Source: GoBankingRate.com

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Friday Fun Facts – What Remodeling Projects Are Best For Resale?

Thinking about remodeling your home?

In 2023, Americans spent approximately $363 billion upgrading and remodeling their homes.  Not all remodeling projects are created equal… so which investment gives the best return when it comes to resale value?

It might not be a surprise that the best money to spend upgrading your home is in the kitchen – it’s the place where most homeowners spend the majority of their waking hours.  According to research from the National Association of Realtors, it’s also where remodelers will see the biggest return on investment.

Here is the ranking of various projects in terms of the value they add to the home:

      1. Complete kitchen remodel
      2. Kitchen upgrade
      3. HVAC replacement
      4. Owner’s suite renovation
      5. Bathroom renovation
      6. Finishing a basement
      7. Adding a bathroom


Bottom line:
Home upgrades are a smart play, and kitchens are where the real money is. These renovations aren’t just about looking good – they’re about boosting your home’s value and making your space work for you. So whether you’re dreaming of granite countertops or a sleek new stove, your kitchen remodel is likely to pay off when it’s time to sell.

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Friday Fun Facts – What Remodeling Projects Are Best For Resale?

Thinking about remodeling your home?

In 2023, Americans spent approximately $363 billion upgrading and remodeling their homes.  Not all remodeling projects are created equal… so which investment gives the best return when it comes to resale value?

It might not be a surprise that the best money to spend upgrading your home is in the kitchen – it’s the place where most homeowners spend the majority of their waking hours.  According to research from the National Association of Realtors, it’s also where remodelers will see the biggest return on investment.

Here is the ranking of various projects in terms of the value they add to the home:

      1. Complete kitchen remodel
      2. Kitchen upgrade
      3. HVAC replacement
      4. Owner’s suite renovation
      5. Bathroom renovation
      6. Finishing a basement
      7. Adding a bathroom


Bottom line:
Home upgrades are a smart play, and kitchens are where the real money is. These renovations aren’t just about looking good – they’re about boosting your home’s value and making your space work for you. So whether you’re dreaming of granite countertops or a sleek new stove, your kitchen remodel is likely to pay off when it’s time to sell.

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Friday Fun Facts – Thanksgiving Edition!

Fun and Fascinating Thanksgiving Facts

Thanksgiving is a beloved holiday in the United States, celebrated with family gatherings, festive meals, and a spirit of gratitude. While many know the basics of the tradition, there are some lesser-known facts about this cherished day that might surprise you.

 

1. The First Thanksgiving Wasn’t Just One Day

The first Thanksgiving in 1621, shared by the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag people, was a three-day feast. It included not just food but also games, singing, and other forms of entertainment. Surprisingly, turkey wasn’t the centerpiece—it’s more likely they dined on venison, seafood, and wildfowl.

 

2. It Wasn’t an Official Holiday for Over 200 Years

While Thanksgiving was celebrated sporadically in different states, it wasn’t until 1863 that President Abraham Lincoln declared it a national holiday. He did so during the Civil War, hoping to unify the nation with a day of gratitude.

 

3. The Macy’s Parade Tradition Began in 1924

The famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City started in 1924, featuring live animals borrowed from the Central Park Zoo instead of the giant balloons we know today. The parade now draws millions of viewers in person and on television.

 

4. Americans Eat an Astounding Amount of Turkey

Each year, about 46 million turkeys are consumed on Thanksgiving. If you lined up all the turkeys eaten, they would stretch across the United States!

 

5. The “Turkey Pardon” Tradition

Every year, the President of the United States ceremonially “pardons” a live turkey, sparing it from becoming dinner. This quirky tradition is believed to have started in the 1940s, though it became an annual event in the late 1980s.

 

6. It’s One of the Biggest Travel Days of the Year

Thanksgiving sees millions of Americans traveling to be with family and friends, making it one of the busiest times for air travel and road trips.

 

7. Football and Thanksgiving Go Hand in Hand

Thanksgiving football games date back to the late 1800s. The first NFL Thanksgiving game was played in 1920, and the Detroit Lions have hosted a Thanksgiving Day game every year since 1934 (except during World War II).

 

From its historical origins to modern-day traditions, Thanksgiving is a celebration of gratitude, family, and community. As you enjoy your turkey and pumpkin pie, take a moment to appreciate the rich history behind this beloved holiday!

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Friday Fun Facts – What Home Renovations Aren’t Worth the Price Tag

If you’ve ever wondered how much it would cost to renovate your home and if it’s worth it… you are not alone.  According to data from Forbes, the average home renovation costs $41,600, with projects ranging from $1,200 to $82,000, depending on the size of your home and the scope of the work involved.

While the goal of investing in a home renovation project is often to increase the value of your property, there are some features that may not be worth the upfront cost when it comes time to sell your property in the future. Here are six house features that buyers aren’t interested in:

  1. Turning Your Garage Into Living Space
    Prospective buyers typically prefer a functional garage for parking rather than a specialized living space. Before selling, consider returning the garage to its original function.
  2. Adding an ADU to Your Property
    The installation of an alternative dwelling unit (ADU) can significantly alter vehicle and storage space, potentially raising concerns for potential buyers.
  3. High-End Kitchen Appliances
    While high-end appliances and renovations may seem desirable, they may not significantly increase the home’s resale value.
  4. Built-In Shelving
    Built-in shelving and entertainment systems could restrict furniture configuration options, potentially causing inconvenience for buyers.
  5. Niche Additions
    Specialty additions like gyms, wine rooms, and movie-screening rooms may make it difficult to sell your home and may not necessarily increase its value.
  6. Swimming Pool
    Installing a pool can be costly and may deter potential buyers due to maintenance demands and safety concerns, particularly for families with small children.

It’s important to carefully consider these factors when planning home renovation projects, especially if the goal is to increase the property’s resale value.

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Friday Fun Facts – The Average American Moves 12 Times in Their Life

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the average American moves approximately 11.7 times throughout their lifetime. However, this number varies widely depending on factors such as age, income, and marital status.

Young adults between the ages of 18 and 34 move much more frequently than older adults. Folks between 18 and 34 have an average of 3.3 moves under their belts. In contrast, adults aged 65 and over move much less frequently, with an average of 2.4 moves throughout their lifetime.

Times have changed. While Americans used to move for job opportunities, most people nowadays choose to move for personal reasons. Being closer to families and seeking a better quality of life have become major driving forces behind American relocations.

Of course, the COVID-19 pandemic has also had a significant impact on American mobility. Many people took the chance to re-evaluate their living situations in light of remote work and other changes in the workplace. After all, if you’re going to work from home, why not make your home someplace nice?

 

Sources:  U.S. Census Bureau and MovingFeedback.com

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New Listings – October 2024


1906 Spring Bloom Drive | Windsor

Welcome to an unparalleled luxury retreat, nestled on a sprawling one-acre lot in the exclusive, Acadia at RainDance. This exquisite six-bedroom, five-bathroom estate redefines opulence with its meticulously crafted features and tailored finishes. Step into the magnificent great room, where a soaring 12-foot ceiling with beams creates an expansive atmosphere, centered around a custom-designed soft-lit fireplace that serves as both a visual masterpiece and a cozy gathering spot. The adjacent gourmet kitchen is equipped with state-of-the-art Dacor appliances, walnut and white oak cabinetry with quartz slab backsplash, 11-foot island adorned with quartz slab waterfall countertop, and stand-alone column refrigerator and freezer for a total of 48 of storage. The beverage counter and separate butler’s pantry, complete with a prep sink and drawer microwave, ensures effortless entertaining. The primary suite is a sanctuary of luxury, featuring a lavish eight foot walk-through shower, a striking 60-inch freestanding tub, and an artfully crafted custom tile wall connected to an extensive master closet. The impeccably designed mudroom features two expansive white oak lockers with a black leathered granite seat, and the custom cabinetry above offers additional storage. Descend to the finished basement, an entertainer’s paradise. The bar area features two stone wall wine racks and a custom-built wood waterfall bar table, perfect for hosting gatherings. RainDance offers several orchards, pumpkins patches and a real farm-table experience all while including a stunning golf course, pool, clubhouse, and several trails.

Jacqueline Feil | MLS#1020097

 

33250 County Road 53 | Gill

Welcome to 33250 County Road 53 which sits in the country on 3.66 acres. This 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom homestead has so much to offer. The main floor has an open-floor plan, updated kitchen with quartz countertops, new carpet on the main level, the master bathroom has been upgraded with new finishes and a luxury shower, custom blinds throughout the entire home, fresh paint throughout, and a new storm door. The basement includes a 2nd kitchen, all new carpet and luxury plank flooring, renovated laundry room and 4 new windows. Let’s talk about the amazing views of the Rocky Mountains, lots of room for your livestock, lean-tos and a large shop ( 55X30 ) for your big toys. The property has pipe fencing all around it and as well has a fenced yard. You will not want to miss out on this gem.

Suzanne Ekeler | MLS#1021189

 

6355 Ozark Ave | Loveland

This meticulously maintained 2 story home features a main level primary with 2 additional bedrooms on the upper level and another 2 in the basement. There are new countertops, hardwood floors and carpeting as well as light fixtures and ceiling fans. Vaulted ceilings, big windows and a view of the foothills make this home shine. Enjoy hosting family and friends in the open concept main level or head downstairs to take advantage of a spacious recreation room. Take advantage of the fully fenced back yard, elevated garden beds and patio. Conveniently located in north Loveland this is the right place to call home.

Maria Delotta | MLS#1021095

 

3107 Deering Lake Drive | Loveland

Welcome to your new home in the beautiful Lakes at Centerra neighborhood!! This beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home is better than new and move-in ready. This spacious residence offers a bright and open floor plan, perfect for comfortable living and entertaining. The living room is filled with natural light, showcasing vaulted ceilings and large windows that create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The updated kitchen features quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and ample cabinet space, making it a chef’s dream for everyday meals and special gatherings. The primary suite is a peaceful retreat, complete with a walk-in closet and an en-suite bathroom with dual vanities, and a large walk-in shower. The 2 additional bedrooms provide versatility for family, guests, or a home office. The outdoor space is equally inviting, with a professionally xeriscaped back yard and a large patio perfect for outdoor dining, relaxation, gardening, entertaining and enjoying Colorado’s sunny days. Don’t miss the unfinished basement! It has an additional almost 1000 square feet and is roughed for another bathroom. The home is just a short walk to one of the 2 neighborhood parks and the dog park. With a neighborhood garden, fishing at the lake, the high plains environmental center, plenty of walking trails and conveniently located to I25, and shopping at Centerra this neighborhood has something for everyone! Don’t miss out on this one!!

Karla Laferriere  |  MLS#1020628

 

621 Wind River Court | Windsor

Welcome to 621 Wind River Court, a ranch-style home located on a Cul-de-sac, offering main floor living with 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, and a 3-car garage. The open floor plan features vaulted ceilings, natural light, and a kitchen with granite countertops, wood floors, an island, eating area and pantry. The basement includes a large family room and storage. The backyard boasts beautiful landscaping, garden boxes, and an extended patio. Solar panels are paid off, lowering utility costs. Walking distance to Hollister Lake Elementary, Windsor Lake, and downtown. Call today for your private showing.

Suzanne Ekeler | MLS#1020369

 

1904 Winterberry Way | Fort Collins

Nestled in the vibrant heart of mid-town, this 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom townhome offers a perfect blend of convenience and charm. Just a stone’s throw from Rolland Moore Park and a short bike ride to CSU and Old Town via the scenic Spring Creek Trail, the location is unbeatable. Surrounded by mature trees and expansive green spaces, it provides a serene setting for residents. Step inside to a newly transformed interior that enhances its original charm, featuring new carpet and fresh paint throughout. The Dining Room can be transformed to a MAIN LEVEL OFFICE or a 4th BEDROOM depending on needs. The updated kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances and solid surface countertops, making it ideal for any home chef. Enjoy the outdoors with a fenced front courtyard and a cozy back deck accessible through sliding glass doors. The two-car garage offers ample storage. With a new water heater and AC system, this townhome is ready for you to move in and make it your own.

Alexis Foster | MLS#1020178

 

2233 Ridgecrest Road | Fort Collins

Nestled on a serene .68-acre lot, the home offers the ease of one-level living in a beautifully designed ranch-style home. This tranquil retreat features lush gardens, a small greenhouse for gardening enthusiasts, and thoughtfully designed outdoor living spaces. Imagine mornings on the newly laid paver patio listening to the sounds of a flowing fountain, evenings gathered around the designated firepit area, and afternoons unwinding in the relaxing sunroom that brings the beauty of the outdoors in. Inside, the updated kitchen invites culinary creativity, while the family room and living room each boasts a cozy fireplace, with a smaller wall fireplace adding a touch of warmth to the primary bedroom. With four bedrooms and no HOA restrictions, this property is truly a private haven where nature and modern living harmoniously blend. Seller is also offering a One Year Home Warranty.

Rondi duPont | MLS#1019715

 

2502 Owens Ave 102 | Fort Collins

Welcome to this beautifully maintained main floor 2 bed, 2 bath condo in the highly sought-after Timbers subdivision! Featuring a bright open floor plan, a cozy fireplace, new flooring, fresh paint throughout, and a new furnace installed in 2023, this home is move-in ready. Enjoy your own private patio, perfect for relaxing or entertaining. You’ll appreciate the convenience of a detached 1-car garage and easy access to local shops, dining, and more. Located in an excellent school district, this community also offers fantastic amenities, including a clubhouse, pool, and fitness center. Don’t miss out on this gem!

Philip Cooper | MLS#1019911

 

8012 N Louden Crossing Court | Windsor

Gorgeous 1/2 acre oasis with amazing outdoor features and indoor tranquility. Don’t miss the 16 x 9 gazebo, fire pit, mature trees and a lovely patio area. Enjoy this expansive ranch-style home with an open floor plan, main level office, huge eat-in kitchen, formal dining room, large laundry room, soaring ceilings & a beautiful fireplace in the family room. But wait, there’s more! The finished basement has a wet bar, rec room to entertain in, 2 more bedrooms and a beautiful bathroom. This entire package is on a Cul-de-sac in a great location, close to Windsor, Fort Collins, Timnath & Loveland. This great opportunity won’t last & has NO Metro Tax!

Katie Robinson | MLS#1019873

 

5145 Corbett Dr | Fort Collins

This beautiful south Fort Collins Townhome located in the highly coveted Harvest Park Community is a prime location with lots of amenities. Close to Twin Silo Park, this 2 bedroom 3 bath with an unfinished basement allows for room to grow. All kitchen appliances new as of 2020 including refrigerator, electric range/oven ( convection capable) , microwave and dishwasher. New roof, exterior paint and AC 2020. HOA fee covers access to the pool, clubhouse, weight room, water and sewer.

Lindsey Crisanti | MLS#1020283

 

311 E. Chestnut Street | Windsor

RARE opportunity to own this charming brick duplex located in the heart of Windsor. This nicely renovated property features two spacious units, each offering a comfortable living space with an open floor plan. The exterior has classic brick detailing, providing both durability and timeless appeal. Inside, each unit boasts ample windows that fill the living areas with natural light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The kitchens are equipped with modern appliances, ample cabinetry, and convenient dining spaces, perfect for entertaining family and friends. Each unit includes two generously sized bedrooms, one with a full ensuite and a second full bathroom, ensuring plenty of privacy and space for residents. Each unit also has a full unfinished basement with bathroom rough in for future expansion. The duplex is situated on a well-sized lot, each unit offering a private fenced backyard that is ideal for outdoor gatherings or peaceful relaxation. Its prime location allows for easy access to local amenities, parks, and schools, making it an excellent choice for families or investors. With its blend of classic charm and modern convenience, this brick duplex in Windsor is a fantastic opportunity for anyone looking to invest in a thriving community.

Shari Moran | MLS#1021221

 

3912 Alcazar Drive | Castle Rock

This charming three-bedroom, three-bathroom home is nestled in the highly sought-after Meadows neighborhood, offering both comfort and convenience. It features an updated kitchen with a newer electric range and all appliances included, making it move-in ready. Inside, you’ll find brand new luxury vinyl tile (LVT) flooring throughout, adding a modern touch that’s easy to maintain. With two spacious living rooms, there’s ample space for relaxation and entertaining, accommodating a variety of needs. The Grange an expansive clubhouse just few minutes away, offers a wide array of amenities for all ages including a pool with a slide and indoor activities. Enjoy one of several parks and play areas in neighborhood only a few short blocks away. Visit www.meadowscastlerock.com to see all that the clubhouse offers.

Jacqueline Feil | MLS#1021336

 

925 Dove Hill Road | La Salle

Welcome to 925 Dove Hill Rd, a remarkable 3 bed, 3 bath home with 3,454 sq. ft. of spacious, elegant living. This home features an open floor plan, ideal for entertaining and everyday living, with a cozy fireplace adding warmth and ambiance. The main floor master suite offers a private, convenient retreat. Step outside to a beautiful deck where you can sit back and enjoy the breathtaking views and peace and quiet. With a 65% finished walkout basement that opens to serene open space, this home provides both tranquility and additional living potential. Don’t miss your chance to make it yours!

Philip Cooper | MLS#1021465

 

2456 Crown View Drive | Fort Collins

Welcome to this beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 3-bath home that blends modern amenities with classic charm. It is located in a serene and well-established neighborhood with amazing foothills views and NO METRO TAX. Step inside to discover a bright and inviting living area, with large windows that flood the home with natural light and cozy up to the warm and inviting fireplace. The gourmet kitchen features granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and ample cabinet space, making it perfect for cooking and entertaining. The primary suite provides a private retreat and a walk-in closet with ensuite bathroom featuring a luxurious soaking tub and separate shower. The bedrooms are generously sized and versatile, offering plenty of space. The upstairs also provides a spacious loft that has multiple uses. Enjoy outdoor living on the back patio, perfect for dining and relaxation. All your toys will fit in the 3-car tandem garage. You’ll enjoy easy access to nearby parks, walking trails, shopping, and nearby attractions including Horsetooth Reservoir, Spring Canyon Park, and CSU.

Angie Clauser | MLS#1021544

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Friday Fun Facts – Have We Reached a Balanced Market?

Windermere Principal Economist Jeff Tucker analyzes the National Association of REALTORS’ September U.S. home sales report, what the findings say about the current housing market, and why mortgage rates have been rising in recent weeks.

 

 

 

 

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Friday Fun Facts – 3-D Printed Homes

Single-family house 3d printing concept. Symbolic house building using modern technologies. 3d illustration.

Last week, over 300 people gathered in Greeley, Colorado, to witness the groundbreaking of the largest Habitat for Humanity project in the state, which will feature 3D-printed homes. Alquist 3D, a concrete printing company, showcased its technology, using a robotic arm to layer concrete for walls instead of traditional materials like lumber.

Alquist, founded by Zachary Mannheimer, relocated its headquarters to Greeley due to local partnerships, including with Habitat for Humanity and Aims Community College. The company aims to make 3D-printed homes cheaper and more disaster-resistant than traditional houses. Currently, Alquist is working to match the cost of lumber-built homes but anticipates that large-scale production could reduce costs by 20-30%.

The Hope Springs project will consist of 174 Habitat homes and 320 apartments. Alquist’s initial task is to build two duplex homes, while 12 lumber-built homes will begin construction soon. Habitat’s local CEO, Cheri Witt-Brown, supports the technology but seeks to ensure it meets budget and family preferences before committing to further expansion.

Hope Springs will feature various community amenities and could serve as a model for addressing Colorado’s housing crisis. The project aims to combine nonprofit, private, and public efforts to create affordable housing options.

 

Source:  Colorado Public Radio

 

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