Q2 2022 Colorado Real Estate Market Update

by Katie Robinson

The following analysis of select counties of the Colorado real estate market is provided by Windermere Real Estate Chief Economist Matthew Gardner. We hope that this information may assist you with making better-informed real estate decisions. For further information about the housing market in your area, please don’t hesitate to contact your Windermere Real Estate agent.

Regional Economic Overview

Colorado continues to add jobs, but the pace of growth has slowed, albeit modestly. At the time of writing this report, the state’s employment had increased by 124,600 jobs over the past 12 months, which represents an annual growth rate of 4.6%. The state unemployment rate in May was 3.5%. Regionally, unemployment rates ranged from a low of 2.4% in Boulder to a high of 3.4% in the Grand Junction and Greeley metropolitan areas.

Colorado Home Sales

❱ In the second quarter, 12,839 homes sold, a drop of 8% compared to a year ago but 57% higher than in the first quarter of this year.

❱ Year over year, sales rose in only three counties covered by this report and fell in the rest of the region. That said, there was a palpable increase in sales across the board compared to the first quarter of 2022.

❱ The significant jump in sales from the first quarter can likely be attributed to the fact that inventory levels spiked, rising more than 190% from the first quarter.

❱ Pending sales (an indicator of future closings) rose 39% from the first quarter, signifying that the third quarter may show further growth in sales activity.

Colorado Home Prices

❱ The average home sale price ($700,369) was 14.1% higher than the same period in 2021. Prices were also 9.8% higher than in the first quarter of this year.

❱ Price growth remains strong even in the face of significantly higher inventory levels and mortgage rates, which is an impressive achievement.

❱ Year over year, prices rose by double digits across all markets except El Paso and Arapahoe counties. Prices rose in all counties other than Gilpin (-10.3%) and Clear Creek (-1%) from the first quarter.

❱ With the increase in mortgage rates and the number of homes for sale, I have started to watch list prices more closely. Compared to the first quarter, median list prices are lower in 9 of the 12 counties included in this report. Although it’s too early to say whether this is a trend we should be worried about, I will be watching how prices move during the summer, as it may be an indicator that the market is starting to soften.

A map showing the real estate home prices percentage changes for various counties in Colorado. Different colors correspond to different tiers of percentage change. El Paso and Arapahoe Counties are the only counties with a percentage change in the 7% to 10.9% range, Boulder and Gilpin counties are in the 11% to 14.9% change range, Larimer, Weld, Adams, Park, Jefferson, and Douglas are in the 15% to 18.9% change range, Denver County is in the 19% to 22.9% change range, and Clear Creek County is the sole county in the 23% + change range.

A bar graph showing the annual change in home sale prices for various counties in Colorado from Q2 2021 to Q2 2022. Clear Creek County tops the list at 23.7%, followed by Denver at 22.3%, Larimer at 18.6%, Douglas at 16.4%, Park at 16.2%, Weld at 15.5%, Adams at 15.2%, Jefferson at 15.1%, Gilpin at 14.2%, Boulder at 11.3%, Arapahoe at 9.9%, and finally El Paso at 7.9%.

Mortgage Rates

Although mortgage rates did drop in June, the quarterly trend was still moving higher. Inflation—the bane of bonds and, therefore, mortgage rates—has yet to slow, which is putting upward pressure on financing costs.

That said, there are some signs that inflation is starting to soften and if this starts to show in upcoming Consumer Price Index numbers then rates will likely find a ceiling. I am hopeful this will be the case at some point in the third quarter, which is reflected in my forecast.

A bar graph showing the mortgage rates from 2020 to the present, as well as Matthew Gardner's forecasted mortgage rates through Q2 2023. He forecasts mortgage rates continuing to climb to 5.9% in Q4 2022, then tapering off to 5.58% in Q1 2023 and 5.53% in Q2 2023.

Colorado Days on Market

❱ The average time it took to sell a home in the markets contained in this report fell eight days compared to the same period in 2021.

❱ The length of time it took to sell a home dropped in six counties, remained static in three, and rose in the other three compared to the same quarter a year ago.

❱ It took an average of only 10 days to sell a home in the region, which is down 15 days compared to the first quarter of the year.

❱ Compared to the first quarter of 2022, average market time fell across the board, with significant drops in Gilpin (-41 days), Park (-25 days), and Clear Creek (-23 days) counties.

A bar graph showing the average days on market for homes in various counties in Colorado for Q2 2022. Arapahoe, Adams, and Jefferson Counties have the lowest DOM at 7, followed by Denver, Douglas, and Clear Creek at 8, El Paso at 9, Larimer at 10, Weld and Boulder at 11, Gilpin at 12, and Park at 17.

Conclusions

This speedometer reflects the state of the region’s real estate market using housing inventory, price gains, home sales, interest rates, and larger economic factors.

The Colorado economy remains robust and continues to grow. As it stands today, I anticipate income growth here will continue to outpace the nation. The 221,000 current job openings in the state are evidence of significant employer demand, which will lead to higher wages. Housing demand is still remarkably strong, even in light of the rapid increase in the number of homes for sale and rising financing costs.

A speedometer graph indicating a medium seller's market in Colorado for Q2 2022.

As mentioned earlier, I will be watching movement in list prices through the summer as they are a leading indicator in respect to the health of the market. Although we saw some softening in the pace of regional list price growth during second quarter and median list prices pulling back in some markets, it is too early to state that this is a pattern. As such, I am leaving the needle in the same position as the first quarter. The growing number of homes for sale and lower list prices in some markets should favor buyers, but this is offset for the time being by solid demand.

About Matthew Gardner

Matthew Gardner - Chief Economist for Windermere Real Estate

As Chief Economist for Windermere Real Estate, Matthew Gardner is responsible for analyzing and interpreting economic data and its impact on the real estate market on both a local and national level. Matthew has over 30 years of professional experience both in the U.S. and U.K.

In addition to his day-to-day responsibilities, Matthew sits on the Washington State Governors Council of Economic Advisors; chairs the Board of Trustees at the Washington Center for Real Estate Research at the University of Washington; and is an Advisory Board Member at the Runstad Center for Real Estate Studies at the University of Washington where he also lectures in real estate economics.

Virtual Tour • Windsor Real Estate • August 5, 2022

Spacious Country Farms Gem

by Katie Robinson

8021 N Louden Crossing Court is a beautiful, well-maintained home on almost half an acre in the coveted Country Farms subdivision! Don’t miss this opportunity to live in a spacious, 5-bed, 4-bath home close to Windsor, Fort Collins, and Loveland. It was once a model home, so there are many upgrades inside and out. This home features an open floorplan with high ceilings, main level primary bedroom suite (w/upgraded heated floors), 2 fireplaces, an upgraded kitchen with custom cabinetry & stainless steel appliances. Natural light floods almost every room accentuating the fresh paint throughout most of the house. This home has had lots of upgrades and has a personality of it’s own. Call (970) 430-9630 to schedule a private tour or click here for more information.

Design • Home Design • Home Ownership • Windermere • July 18, 2022

What is Mid-Century Modern Architecture?

by Katie Robinson

The mid-century modern movement’s impact on design reaches far and wide. Whether it’s graphic design, architecture, interior design, product development or elsewhere, we see traces of its influence in countless aspects of everyday life today. Mid-century modern homes are known for their signature look and stylistic appeal. Here’s a short guide to understanding the characteristics behind mid-century modern architecture.

Mid-Century Modern Design

Yes, mid-century modern interior design and mid-century modern architecture are two separate things. The interior design style emphasizes clean lines and minimal decoration, the use of natural elements as accents, and a base of neutral colors for decorating. MCM interior design can exist in any type of home regardless of its architectural style, and is often a popular source of inspiration for decorators fond of vintage elements and popular mid-century furniture pieces such as credenzas, teak desks, Eames chairs, etc.

What is Mid-Century Modern Architecture?

Mid-century modern architecture is the exterior counterpart of its interior design branch. Fueled by a massive need for suburban homes throughout the Unites States in the post-World War II era, the stage was set for mid-century modern’s introduction to the masses. Some of the greatest minds in modern architectural history helped develop and proliferate its presence in society, including Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Frank Lloyd Wright. Though you’ll find unique variations within mid-century modern, there are certain tenets of the architectural style.

Mid-century modern homes have flat roofs with straight lines. This clean geometric approach in roof design is part of a larger philosophical ideal that these homes should blend in with their outdoor environments, thereby working in harmony with nature.
Glass is used heavily, and floor-to-ceiling windows are a common feature, especially in the living room.
The minimalist approach to exterior design is showcased in the easy access to outdoor spaces and the fact that mid-century modern homes are often one-story buildings.
The open spaces created by this architectural style allow for intentional decorating and the use of color splashes to bring energy into them. Mid-century modern interiors often incorporate vibrant, warm colors on top of a calmer, neutral foundation.

For Buyers • For Sellers • Fun Facts • Home Ownership • Windermere • Windermere Real Estate • July 14, 2022

The Difference Between a Real Estate Agent and a Mortgage Broker

by Katie Robinson

Throughout the course of buying a home, you’ll work with a variety of professionals, all with specific training to help you through each stage of the process. With such a cast of specialists around you, it’s helpful to know everyone’s responsibilities and which questions to ask whom. One important distinction to be made is the difference between your real estate agent and your mortgage broker. The following information is a guide to understanding where they differ and how each of them helps you to buy a home.

Real Estate Agent vs. Mortgage Broker

Both real estate agents and mortgage brokers are licensed professionals who play a pivotal role in the home buying process by bringing parties together to get a deal done. However, that’s about where the similarities end.

Real Estate Agent

Your real estate agent will represent you throughout the buying process. Their access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) allows them to search the widest network of available homes to find the ones that match your budget and criteria. They’ll also receive alerts on open houses and are usually the first to know when new listings hit the market.

Once you’ve identified a home you’d like to pursue, they’ll assist you in putting together your offer, negotiating with the listing agent representing the seller, and guide you through the counteroffer process (should there be one). Once the seller accepts your offer, your agent will help you negotiate any final repair requests found in the home inspection and assist you through closing until you’ve received the keys to your new home.

The point is: your agent will be with you throughout your home buying journey, from start to finish. They are an invaluable resource for local market knowledge and real estate expertise. Though they will not execute the financial aspects of a home purchase for you, (that’s where your mortgage broker comes in), they can recommend trusted lenders with whom you can apply for and secure a home loan.

For more information on working with an agent, visit our Home Buying Guide:

Mortgage Broker

Mortgage brokers work on the financial side of a real estate transaction, representing buyers to find them favorable mortgage terms when shopping for a home loan. They connect borrowers to lenders by researching the various fees and rates associated with obtaining a mortgage, accessing the buyer’s financial creditworthiness, and coordinating paperwork. Mortgage brokers are not responsible for loaning any money. Once they’ve found the right lender and loan product for their client, they hand the baton to the lender, who will then disburse the funds at the appropriate time.

Working with a mortgage broker can save you time and money. In some cases, they may be able to get the lender to waive certain fees and are experts at finding the best deal for their clients among a vast array of loans and lenders. Mortgage brokers are instrumental in getting your financing for your home purchase secured and provide guidance on which loan products may work best for you.

For more on the financial aspects of a home purchase, read the following:

Two women discussing the terms of a mortgage application

Image Source: Getty Images – Image Credit: kate_sept2004

Questions to Ask Your Real Estate Agent and Mortgage Broker

Now that you know a bit more about the respective responsibilities of real estate agents and mortgage brokers, here are a few common questions to ask when conducting interviews:

Real Estate Agent	Mortgage Broker
How do you help buyers to make their offer stand out?	What is the required down payment for this loan?
Which designations and/or certifications do you have?	What’s the difference between fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgages?
How many clients are you working with currently?	Which costs are attached to this loan?
What is the best way to contact you?	How high does my credit score need to be?
How long have you been an agent in the local market?	What is the interest rate for this loan?
Do you represent both buyers and sellers?	What’s the difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval?
Do you have recommendations for mortgage brokers, home inspectors, etc.?	Is there a prepayment penalty?

Home Improvement • Home Ownership • Living • Windermere • July 10, 2022

Lead Paint: Tips for Testing and Removal

by Katie Robinson

In the past, lead paint was commonly used to paint homes. Its durability and resistance to moisture were its greatest assets, but it was only a matter of time until health officials discovered its poisonous properties, and in 1978 it was officially banned. Lead paint causes a variety of health issues and is especially harmful to children, so those living in homes built during the lead paint era should be aware of its dangers, how to detect it, and how to go about removing it safely.

Testing for Lead Paint

You won’t know whether lead paint exists in your home unless you test for it. There are a variety of do-it-yourself testing kits available, but their results may vary and can sometimes be prone to false positives, depending on the active testing agent. Given the variability with DIY testing, it may be best to hire a professional to test for lead paint in your home—both for accuracy and peace of mind. You can also choose to send a paint sample into a lab for testing.

Dealing with Lead Paint

If you discover lead paint in your home but it is still intact, encapsulation may solve the problem without having to remove it. Encapsulation is the process of painting over the areas where lead paint exists using a special coating that seals in the lead paint layer underneath. This is often the more affordable way of dealing with lead paint, but the coating may wear off over time, leaving you back at square one.

If you’re thinking about selling your home, the presence of lead paint is a necessary disclosure. Know that buyers generally view a home with lead paint as unfavorable, given its serious health risks and dangers. If you’re thinking about remodeling, testing for lead paint is a wise first step before you start knocking down walls or ripping through sheetrock.

Removing Lead Paint

The more your paint is cracked, chipped, or damaged in any way, the riskier it is. Any signs of deterioration in a lead paint-based home should be dealt with by removing it as soon as possible.

Removing lead paint on your own is generally not advised. It requires specific training and materials, as well as many preventative measures including creating a sealed exit, wearing protective clothing, properly covering the various surfaces in your home, and proper execution of removal to ensure you’ve vanquished all the lead—just to name a few.

Like any other home improvement project, it’s best to consult lead paint removal professionals in your local area and compare their quotes before making your choice. Before the pros come, you can prepare by clearing away any paint chips that have fallen, thoroughly cleaning the surfaces in your home, and encouraging your household and guests to refrain from touching those surfaces.

For more information on preventing damage to your home, read our guide to dealing with mold.

How to Prevent and Deal with Mold

For Sellers • Fun Facts • Home Ownership • Windermere Real Estate • July 1, 2022

Preparing to Sell Your Home: A Complete Checklist

by Katie Robinson

Getting your home ready to sell can feel like a circus act. Without the right organization, juggling the countless moving parts involved in this stage of the selling process can take its toll. This is the perfect opportunity to create a checklist to keep yourself on track and within your budget. The following information will illuminate the key responsibilities you face as a homeowner as you prepare to hit the market.

We’ve included a comprehensive checklist below of the common tasks required to get your home ready to sell. It is also available as an interactive web page and downloadable pdf here: Get Ready to Sell Checklist

Preparing to Sell Your Home: Working with an Agent

Before you start working on the house itself, it’s best to get the ball rolling on the strategic aspects of selling a home. Working with a real estate agent is the best way to get your home sold for the best price in a timely manner.

A listing agent will represent you throughout the selling process to determine the value of your home, coordinate open houses, market the property, and negotiate with buyers to reach a deal. In the early stages of your discussions with your agent, they will conduct a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to see what price your home could fetch on the market, accounting for various factors that influence home prices such as seasonality and local market conditions. Based on the findings of your agent’s CMA, you can discuss whether remodeling fits into your go-to-market strategy, and your agent can provide intel on which remodeling projects could deliver significant ROI based on buying trends, your location, and what comparable listings in your market are offering.

Home value estimation tools can help you get an idea of what your home is worth to facilitate your conversations with your agent. Use our free Home Worth Calculator by clicking the button below:

A middle-aged man and woman sit down with their real estate agent.

Image Source: Getty Images – Image Credit: FG Trade

Preparing to Sell Your Home: A Complete Checklist

Once you’ve found an agent, you’re ready to get your home in tip-top selling shape. The following checklist is available as a free downloadable PDF here:

Get Ready to Sell Checklist – PDF

Exterior

This list of value-adding curb appeal projects will help to form buyers’ first impressions of your home and make your ever-important exterior listing photos stand out amongst the competition.

Remove peeling and chipped paint; replace with a fresh coat
Fix loose trim and fencing
Clear gutters and downspouts
Make sure there is good exterior lighting and all walkway lights and front-door lanterns work
Clean and repair the roof as needed
Clear garage of clutter and tidy shelves
Inspect chimney for cracks and damage

Yard

Mow and trim grass; re-seed and fertilize where necessary
Prune all overgrown trees and shrubs
Weed flowers beds
Remove or replace dead or diseased plants, shrubs, and trees
Clean grease and oil stains from driveway

Decks/Patios

Paint or stain worn areas on wood decks
Remove grass growing in concrete cracks; sweep off debris from shrubs and trees
Clean all deck rails and make sure they’re secure; replace missing slats or posts
Clean outdoor furniture

Front Door

Polish or stain worn areas on wood decks
Add a fresh coat of paint to get rid of nicks
Clean the glass on the storm door; make certain the screen is secure
Make sure the doorbell operates properly and there are no squeaks when the door opens and closes

Windows

Clean all windows inside and out
If needed, add a fresh coat of paint to the window trims and sills
Make sure all windows open and close easily
Replace cracked windowpanes and those with broken seals
Make sure window screens are clean and secure; replace any screens with holes or tears

Front Entry

Clean entryway floors and area rugs
Downsize clutter in the entry and entry closet to give the appearance of spaciousness
Double-check entry lighting to make sure it works

Interior

Not only will these interior projects get your house sparkling clean, but they’re also preparatory steps for staging your home and hosting open houses.

General Interior Cleaning

Clean all floors, carpets, walls, and trim
Replace burned-out light bulbs
Empty trash
Remove family photos, valuables, and prescription drugs
Tidy up clutter

Kitchen

Fix dripping faucets
Organize pantry and cupboards so they appear clean, neat, and spacious
Make sure the refrigerator and freezer are defrosted and free of odors
Clean the oven and cook top thoroughly
Set the table

Living/Family/Dining Rooms

Give rooms a fresh coat of paint as needed
Repair cracks and holes in ceiling and walls
Make sure all wallpaper is secure
Repaint any woodwork that is worn or chipped
Clean or replace draperies and blinds; open them to maximize light
Make sure draperies and blinds open and close
Steam-clean carpets
Clean rugs and wood flooring, and remove any stains or odors
Position the furniture to showcase the size and space of the room
Remove and replace any attached items, such as chandeliers and draperies, that you wish to move with you
Put away toys and hobby supplies; remove extra magazines and books from tables

Bathrooms

Make sure sinks, tubs, showers, and countertops are clean and free of stains
Repair any leaky faucets
Remove grout and soap stains from tile
Replace any missing or cracked tiles or grout
Make sure all joints are caulked
Make sure all fixtures, including heat lamps and exhaust fans are operating
Install a new shower curtain and buy matching towels
Store all supplies, such as toilet paper, shampoo bottles and cleansers, out of sight

Bedrooms

Repair cracks in ceiling and walls
Apply a fresh coat of paint if necessary
Make sure all wallpaper is secure
Clean draperies and blinds; open them to maximize light
Put away toys, clothes, and clutter
Neatly make up the beds

Basement

Check for water penetration or dampness; call for professional repairs if necessary
Get rid of musty odors
Clean furnace, hot water heater, and drains
Make sure light fixtures work
Arrange storage area in a neat and organized manner
Make sure stairway handrail is secure

Tidy Extras

Use air fresheners or bake treats to make the house smell good
Plant flowers to brighten the walkway and enrich the entry
Remove any indoor houseplants that are brown or losing their leaves
Remove all “fixer” cars, campers, and boats from the property
Discard the clutter of magazines on the coffee and end tables
Tidy and declutter all closets
Hide or get rid of worn-out throw pillows
Store pet supplies
At night, turn on the porch light and outdoor lighting
Put away toys and hobby supplies; remove extra magazines and books from tables

For more information on preparing to sell your home, helpful hints on the rest of the buying process, tips on working with an agent, moving checklists, and more, visit our Home Selling Guide:

Community • Fun Facts • Windermere • Windermere Foundation • Windermere Real Estate • June 28, 2022

Windermere Participates in 38th Annual Community Service Day

by Katie Robinson

Windermere offices close for business every year in June to participate in Community Service Day, an annual tradition since 1984 where our agents, staff, and franchise owners spend the day volunteering in their communities. We’ve gathered a handful of stories to share a glimpse of what Community Service Day 2022 looked like around our network.

Windermere Real Estate Professionals – Boise, ID

With inflation soaring, the Windermere Real Estate Professionals office in Boise, Idaho identified a food drive as a way to make a positive impact in their community for this year’s Community Service Day. Partnering with the Windermere Boise Valley office, they ran a food drive for two weeks, resulting in 520 pounds of food donations to the Idaho Food Bank. Seven staff members participated in food delivery and volunteered at the food bank to package 2,100 pounds of pinto beans to be distributed out into the community. For every one dollar raised, the Idaho Food Bank was able to provide four meals for community families in need.

A group of Windermere agents from the Boise, Idaho office stand by a food bank sign.

Pictured back row from left to right: Linda Evans, Lindsey Olson, Jason Smith, Mindi McCallister – Bottom row left to right: Tina Perry, Denise Hapner, Marissa Musgrave – Image Source: Lindsey Olson

Windermere Portland-Lloyd Tower NE – Portland, OR

The Windermere Lloyd Tower office showed up in strong numbers for a city-wide cleaning project in Portland, Oregon. Working with SOLVE, a local organization dedicated to the restoration and preservation of Oregon’s environment through the mobilization of volunteers, they made their way through the city picking up trash and clearing debris.

A group of Windermere agents and staff from the Lloyd Tower office outside their office door.

Pictured: Daniel Fagan, Claudia Pinedo, Ahna Austin, Josh Velasquez, Melissa George, Regina Cameli, Tyler King, Lori Bennett, Carmel Siler, Beth Kellan, Rob McElroy, Jeanine R. Dixon, Doug Meyer, Scarlet Eikrem, Cynthia Chase, Megan Barrett, Katie Bennett, Sean Kelly, Desireé Moore, Darren? + last signature – Image Source: Susie Hunt Moran

Windermere Northwest Living – Vancouver, WA

Windermere Northwest Living in Vancouver, WA has close ties to local Fruit Valley Elementary, a school whose foundation they have donated food to in the past. The office held a food drive to support students in need facing food insecurity, gathering over $3,000 in food donations. For the first time since 2019, the students were able to receive the donations in person. Windermere Northwest Living followed up the food drive with a donation to the school’s foundation from their brokers, staff, and clients totaling $12,000.

A group of Windermere agents and staff from Northwest Living in Vancouver, WA hold up a check for $12,000.

Pictured: Nataliya Thomas, Lynn Posselt, Sue Wolfe, Tyneil Thompson, Connie Bovee, Dayna Freitag, Karen Cleveland, John Blind, Dean Lane, Halle Sessions, Lauren Cooper, Hollie Sessions, Barbara Corigliano, Gretchen Finn, Steph Tornaw, Chad Sessions, Mike Lamb, Libby Murphy Benz, Gerry Dowdy-Latshaw

Windermere Northern Colorado – Fort Collins, CO

Deeply involved in supporting the housing needs of their community, Windermere Northern Colorado found the perfect partner for their Community Service Day efforts in Neighbor to Neighbor, an organization providing sustainable housing, supportive services, and education to Larimer County, CO locals. A group of agents and staff gathered to build handicap-accessible raised garden beds to support the residents’ gardening and sustainable food practices.

A group of agents and staff from Windermere Northern Colorado working on a project during Community Service Day 2022.

Pictured left to right: Paul Hunter, Pete Jordan, Brandon Bidwell – In background: Heather Patel and son – Image Source: Windermere Northern Colorado / Fort Collins

Windermere Lake Oswego – Lake Oswego, OR

The COVID-19 pandemic has put added pressure on households already experiencing domestic violence; a truth that is not lost on the Windermere Lake Oswego office. Accordingly, they sought to support local women and children facing these issues by partnering with Clackamas Women’s Services, an Oregon City-based organization providing critical services to domestic and sexual abuse survivors and their families. Members of the Lake Oswego office spent the day volunteering at a soon-to-open CWS shelter that will support survivors in their program and provide them a safe place to stay. Windermere agents and staff donated food and toiletries, sorted donations, cleaned windows, and swept floors to get the shelter ready to open its doors.

A group of agents and staff from Windermere Lake Oswego at a playground on Community Service Day 2022.

Pictured left to right: Sandy Fogle, Patty Black, Bill Futrell, Sandi Sheets, Alexis Halmy, Alta Strayhan, Kerri Miller, Natalie Jackson, Linda Crumb, Laurie Bornstein, Christi Kraus, Dennis Kelly – Image Source: Christi Kraus

Windermere Northwest Living – Longview, WA

Windermere Northwest Living in Longview, WA focused their community service efforts on two local organizations—Lower Columbia School Gardens and Habitat for Humanity—with a variety of gardening and planting projects. Agents and staff divided into two groups: one group pulled weeds, pruned trees, and prepared garden beds for Lower Columbia students’ classes, while the other laid sod, built a deck, and laid flooring for the Habitat for Humanity project.

A group of agents and staff from Windermere Longview outside on Community Service Day 2022.

Pictured left to right: Kellie McIvor, Vicki Sturm, Tami Cheatley, Tara Lundin, Kari Gott, Sherry Bjorhu, Kayla Duckworth, Nicole Graichen, Kaylie Kingsley, Baby Jack Kingsley, and Jayme King – Image Source: Kari Gott

Pictured left to right: Hollie Sessions, Chad Sessions, Halle Sessions, Bobby Lundin, Amanda Kurtti, Amelia Glassett, Tim Glassett, Shelby Alred, Barbara Stephenson, Kevin Campbell, Megan Rogers, Abby Davis, Chad Earhart, Lilly Cress – Image Source: Kari Gott

Windermere Bozeman – Bozeman, MT

Over in Montana, the Windermere Bozeman-Downtown office was hard at work supporting Eagle Mount, an organization that provides recreational opportunities for people with disabilities and young people with cancer. Agents and staff helped Eagle Mount set up for “The Western Rendezvous,” the organization’s largest annual fundraiser consisting of live and silent auctions. The Windermere volunteers set up tables and chairs and hung decorations in preparation for a successful event.

A group of Windermere agents from the Bozeman-Downtown office volunteering during Community Service Day 2022.

Pictured: Dina Emmert, Kim Stevens, Mike Stem, Amy Swanson, Joe DePew, Bobby Goodman, Kevin Schwartz

Fun Facts • Home Design • Home Investment • Market Update • June 25, 2022

Still Behind

by Katie Robinson

Single family new housing starts in 2022 will show an increase versus last year, will be the most since 2007, and will still be well behind the peak of 2006.

This year, experts predict that a total of 1.1 million single family homes will be started. In 2021 there were 970 thousand new home starts.

The peak occurred in 2006, when 1.65 new homes were started.

So, this year will finish 33% behind the peak.

When we are asked why today’s market is different from the ‘bubble years’ of 2004 to 2007, the difference in new home starts is one reason we cite.

Even though the market is cooling, we remain significantly undersupplied which insulates prices from any kind of dramatic downturn.

Red Feather Lakes Real Estate • Virtual Tour • June 23, 2022

Private Crystal Lakes Gem

by Katie Robinson

323 Shawnee Road is a gorgeous, private escape for year round enjoyment. Lots of room to bring your toys! 3 bedroom, 2 bath home on incredible 4.1 acre setting in Crystal Lakes just 10 minutes from Red Feather Village. This beautiful, fully handicapped accessible home is ready with two car attached garage, fabulous sun room plus finished porch off primary bedroom, large deck next to spectacular rock formation. Amazing privacy with easy access. Many updates: all new flooring, new furnace & AC (2021), new paint, new wood accent walls, new 6-panel wood doors, freshly stained deck (2022), roof replaced (2018). Call (970) 430-9630 to schedule a private tour or click here for more information.

Design • For Sellers • Home Design • Windermere • June 20, 2022

Home Staging Tips

by Katie Robinson

A few weeks ago we shared some insights into why home staging is an important part of the selling process. Below you will find some of our tips for staging and photographing your home for sale.

DIY Home Staging Tips:

With a little time, effort and imagination, you can stage your home to showcase its best features, sell it faster and get top dollar.

Clean up, pare down, and toss out: By simply getting rid of excess furniture and clutter, you can make any room look larger and more inviting.

Make it professional, not personal: Remove family photos, mementos and other personal items from the space. This not only eliminates clutter, it helps potential homebuyers envision their lives in the space.

Repurpose rooms: Do you have a “junk” room? You can transform a liability into an asset by turning an underused space into a reading nook, a craft room, a yoga studio or a home gym. Just clean it up, add a coat of paint, some furniture and the right accessories.

Lighten up: Light, airy rooms look bigger and more welcoming. You can create a pleasing effect by using the right wattage bulbs and multiple light sources. The right window treatments can also have a big impact. Choose fabrics that are light and gauzy, rather than dark and heavy.

Try a little color: Paint is the cheapest, easiest way to update your home. Stick with warm, natural hues, but try darker colors for accent walls and to highlight special features. You can give old furniture new life with a coat of shiny black paint—and freshen up the front door with a bold, cheerful color.

Add some decorative touches: Art, accessories, plants and flowers breathe life into a home. Make rooms more inviting with accessories that are carefully grouped, especially in threes. Pay attention to scale, texture and color. Bring the outdoors in with plants and flowers.

Picture-Perfect Staging:

When it comes to looking for a home most people start on the internet. The photos in your property listing can make a powerful first impression. According to a recent Wall Street Journal article, professional photos can increase home views up to 61%. Make sure your home is “ready for its close-up” by following these simple guidelines before the photographer shows up.

For exterior photography:

· Make sure no cars are parked in front of your house or in your driveway.

· Sidewalks and streets should be cropped out

· There should be up-close and angled shots, as well as long shorts that emphasize space.

· Clear away or trim vegetation blocking the front door or path to the door.

· Make sure lawns are mowed, hedges clipped, etc.

· Remove evidence of pets.

· Put away children’s toys.

· If you are selling a condo or townhome, such amenities as tennis courts, a gym, a garden patio or clubhouse should be photographed.

For interior photography:

· Make sure your house is spotless, windows are clean and rooms are decluttered.

· Repair all visible damage, e.g., bad water stains, gouges, chipped paing.

· Drapes and blinds should be open and lights on.

· Remove trash cans, close toilet seats.

· Use floral arrangements in kitchens and dining rooms.

· Make sure that interesting details and attractive features—e.g., wood floors, a carved mantel, marble countertops and ornamental tile backslashes, etc. – are photographed.