Category Archives: COVID-19

Vacationers Seek Return to Outdoor Adventures, Safe Cities

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Courtesy of LUXURY PORTFOLIO By: Lisa Klein

Although the pandemic continues to cause hiccups for would-be travelers, many favorite destinations are now open to adventurers this year.

While country-specific rules and solid plans may be up in the air for the foreseeable future, locations in South America, Africa and Europe are especially popular vacation spots for the coming year, many offering fairly COVID-safe activities that put holidaymakers at ease.

“We still see most of our guests proceeding with caution,” said Gwen Kozlowski, president of travel agency Exeter International. “We also see guests who have, sometimes repeatedly, delayed travel and they simply don’t want to wait any longer. They’re ready to travel to any spot where it’s feasible.”

Up in the Air

Over the past couple of years, travelers have sought to find destinations to escape to while remaining safe and healthy. Several areas worldwide fit the bill and will continue to be major draws this year.

According to Ms. Kozlowski, Croatia and Montenegro in  Europe  have skyrocketed in popularity throughout the pandemic.

“Both countries were open throughout the pandemic with strict testing protocols in place and the past two years have seen tremendous growth here in the tourism infrastructure, from fantastic new experiences to world-class resorts and hotels,” she said.

Farther afield,  African safaris  make for perfect socially distanced trips. South Africa is expected to be a hot ticket for this year.

“Staff at safari lodges have all been vaccinated and you spend your time mostly outdoors and in nature rather than in crowded cities,” Ms. Kozlowski said.

“There is a rush of people all trying to secure space for the 2022 East Africa Great Migration taking place in Kenya and Tanzania from June to August.”

Across the Atlantic, travelers are lining up to tour  Argentina,  which recently opened its borders to international visitors after one of the longest closures in the world.

“Vaccinated Americans are welcome, and will find a plethora of outdoor options, from the glaciers and lakes of Patagonia to the wineries of Mendoza and Iguazu falls, as well as the stunning capital city, Buenos Aires,” Ms. Kozlowski said.

Testing times

The Asian continent proves more difficult to visit for now, with many nations still working out their travel policies and restrictions.

“We’re still waiting on Russia to work out its entry policy for travelers,” Ms. Kozlowski said of another destination on the backburner. “For now, it’s problematic, with daily testing required, and that’s simply not realistic for most of our guests.”

In 2022, however, many travelers are willing to deal with the hurdles and maybes for a chance at a far-flung trip.

“This means lots of last-minute plans, as people are more and more comfortable waiting to see the current climate before making a financial commitment,” Ms. Kozlowski said.

“We’ve seen this happen repeatedly with guests,” she said. “When their destination has an issue, they’re unflustered. They simply want to know the options of where they can travel. Then they’re ready to go.”

State’s Shop-Local Campaign Being Extended as Pandemic Relief Project

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By BizWest Staff

The Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade is retrofitting its #ShopLocal-Colorado holiday campaign into an ongoing campaign to spotlight and support the state’s small businesses.

The original campaign was established to encourage holiday shopping at local small businesses, especially in light of the effects of COVID-19. Local communities retain 70% of revenue when shopping occurs locally, compared with 40% when shopping non-locally, the state Office of Economic Development and International Trade said in a press release.

The on-going #ShopLocalColorado campaign will equip small-business owners and economic-development leaders with social-media content and tools to encourage the shop local messaging across the state. Each month, the campaign will refresh content and work in collaboration with holidays and national opportunities to spotlight small businesses. February’s campaign will focus on small, black-owned businesses in observation of Black History Month.

“The pandemic’s economic interruption has really highlighted the importance of supporting and shopping our local small businesses,” OEDIT executive director Betsy Markey said in a written statement. “As a former small business owner, I know how important local participation is to business success and sustainability.”

The ongoing campaign serves as a toolkit resource on  oedit.colorado.gov. The toolkit will offer social media copy, graphics and links to information for audiences across the state.

With more than 611,000 small businesses representing more than 99% of Colorado businesses, small business is a driving force in the state’s economy. Encouraging Coloradans to shop their local small businesses is a way to invest money back into local economies and in the communities throughout Colorado.

Access the toolkit at  oedit.colorado.gov/shop-local-colorado-toolkit.

© 2021 BizWest Media LLC

 

Order Thanksgiving Dinner From These Boulder Restaurants

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from Travel Boulder

 

Local food and dining is a major part of the Boulder community, and this year, more than ever, it’s important that we support our culinary neighbors! An opportunity to do just that is on the horizon this week as we approach the Thanksgiving holiday.

 

With 2020 having caused many of us to become reacquainted with our kitchens on a daily basis, cooking up a full Thanksgiving splendor can seem like a looming task. As COVID-19 cases rise, county and state officials are begging Coloradans to avoid private gatherings among two or more households. It is advised that traditional Turkey Day feasts with multiple generations and larger groups hold off until next year, and that gatherings be hosted virtually, meaning many at-home cooks will bear the full responsibility of creating a usually collaborative meal, or perhaps not attempt this massive undertaking at all.

 

Fear not: You can still get your Thanksgiving flavor fix in Boulder, support local restaurants, and stay COVID-safe by ordering a professionally prepared, cook-at-home feast. Check out a great list of local restaurants offering Thanksgiving takeout here! All that will be left for you do do will be to power up the Zoom to talk to Grandma (there are no time limits on Zoom calls this year for the holiday!), set the table, and wear your mask to pick up your Thanksgiving dinner (and likely lunch the next day, and the next, and the next).

 

Stay safe & healthy!

 

Just Released! The Modern Luxury : Reimagined

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Luxury Portfolio International® has released its latest report, which delves into luxury real estate trends and the effects of COVID-19. 

Findings include: 

  • Real estate is the next big buy:  61% of those surveyed indicated their next big buy will be a home-related investment.

  • The seller’s market:  The current ratio of buyers-to-sellers, on average, is 3 buyers for every 2 sellers.

  • Face-to-face preferred:  61% of affluent buyers and 57% of affluent sellers noted that they prefer face-to-face property tours, with the expectation that agents enforce safety protocols.

  • PLUS: Most popular amenities by home price and generation. 

 

View the entire digital version here!

 

September is National Preparedness Month!

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from Organization & Relocation

Amidst the fires in Colorado and California that are threatening so many homes, businesses and the health of thousands, disaster preparedness is top of mind for many, including the team at Organization & Relocation.

The American Red Cross recommends developing a family disaster plan and having an emergency kit – do you feel ready to act quickly if a disaster strikes? Get prepared with tools and resources from the American Red Cross below.

PREPARE FOR FALL 🍂

Cool mornings, the smell of pumpkin spice and a sparkling clean home! Rounding up our top tips for Fall cleaning this season!

1. Store, Sort & Categorize

 

Before you begin the overhaul, determine where you will be storing your summer clothes. Make piles for keep, discard, and donate. Get rid of unwanted clothes or clothes that do not fit – if you don’t like them now, you probably won’t next Summer either!

 

2. Comb Through That Closet

 

Has work from home life changed your day to day wardrobe? Take inventory of your current “work” clothes and if that pant suit ship has sailed, place it in the donation pile! As you hang those Fall sweaters, ask yourself it that sweater brings you joy! No? Time to go!

 

3. Furnace Inspection 

Hire an HVAC professional to check heating efficiency, test for leaks and change the filter. Also, check for drafts by using a lighted candle around doors and windows and if you see a flicker, inspect for broken or cracked seals.

 

4. Organize the Shed

 

As summer items begin to fill up shed space, now is a good time to sort, purge and organize remaining items. Move summer items to the back and winter items to the front for easy access.

 

5. Set Your Kids Up For Success

   

Homeschooling doesn’t have to be a hectic experience if you’re organized! Label and organize your child’s homeschooling area – for better learning and your own peace of mind!

 

A few of our favorite organizing tools

Plastic Storage Bin with Handles
$5.99

Multi-Purpose Bins
$3.99

Large Cabinet Shelf
$7.99

Expand-A-Shelf
$9.99

 

Fresh Ideas to Help Finish the Summer Strong!

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It’s already almost August! This summer has been one full of finding new ways to stay active and keeping the family entertained. Here is a list of some great end of summer activities and fun for everyone to enjoy, while also staying safe and 6 feet apart of course!

 

Virtual classes and entertainment have never been so important and exciting! From concerts and festivals to art gallery tours and Yoga you can almost do it all still, from the safety of your home!

Virtual Bands on the Bricks – Wednesdays, July 15th – August 5th, 2020 from 7-8 pm. Boulder County’s premier outdoor summer concert series has gone online! Nothing brings a community together like music and dance and this summer, nothing is going to stop us! While we can’t all be together in person…you can still bring the music right into your home!  Downtown Boulder proudly presents Bands Above the Bricks – coming to you virtually from high above the Pearl Street Mall.

Amana Yoga – Online Yoga Classes. Sign-up for a 7 day free trial and 50% off a monthly subscription by using code AMANA50. Learn more here.

Boulder Arts Online – The City of Boulder’s Office of Arts and Culture has compiled a variety of workshops, exhibits and activities available virtually here.

Food Lab –  Offering virtual summer camps!

Frasca Food & Wine Dinner Kit –  “At Home With” Dinner Kit and Virtual Guide. Bringing the restaurants of Frasca Hospitality Group into your home. Each week features a dinner kit complete with prepared ingredients and a bottle of hand selected wine. View a step by step recipe guide from the included video guide.

 

Golfing is a great way to avoid crowds and get some fresh air, it’s also a great way keep a safe distance from friends, while still enjoying their company! Here is a list of local, public golf courses to check out.

Flatirons Golf Course – If you are not sick, symptom free and feel safe to golf, please enjoy a round at Flatirons. The course will remain open when everyone adheres to all the safety and physical distancing requirements.          View re-opening rules and procedures here.

Foothills Golf Course & Meadows Golf Club – Open and has adapted aggressive policies to address health and safety for golf operations based on State and County public health orders. Before arriving for your tee time, please review the new policies here.

Indian Peaks Golf Course – Opened with strict guidelines in place to keep the health and safety of staff and guests as the top priority. Golf Club staff will be strictly enforcing the safety guidelines and anyone that cannot respect them will be asked to leave. Carefully review guidelines here.

Haystack Mountain Golf Course – Feeling cooped up but want to avoid gatherings? Relax and breathe easy, The Haystack Mountain course is open and committed to taking all necessary precautions the ensure the health and well-being of golfers and staff. Please review guidelines here.

Coal Creek Golf Course – Open for play and operating under a COVID-19 reopening policy. Social distancing is required and will be enforced, please review and follow the published rules and regulations here.

Sunset Golf Course – Open and accepting tee time reservations through the website. Please review and understand guidelines carefully before arriving here.

Twin Peaks Golf Course – Tee times are now available from 6am – 6pm. Boulder County Public Health guidelines are in place and must be followed by patrons of the City of Longmont Golf Courses, and will be enforced by staff. Clubhouses will not be open. Review guidelines before arrival here.

 

Take the family out for some sun and a splash! Tubing, paddle boarding and kayaking are all awesome ways to get outside to play, and stay safely apart!

Whitewater Tubing & Recreation – Now taking reservations! Experience tubing, rafting, paddle boarding, kayaks and canoes. Rentals, sales and instruction available. Have fun safely on the water, every piece of equipment is sanitized in between every use with bleach and soap. Employees have face protection, are washing their hands frequently and using hand sanitizer. Drive through only for check in to minimize any contact and encouraging social distancing. Also, all employee temperatures are checked before the start of every shift. Enjoy the great outdoors this summer safely!

Boulder Reservoir – 700 acres of wowing Flatiron views. Rent stand-up paddle boards on site from either the Rocky Mountain Paddleboard tent (set up in the morning and afternoon on the shore at Hobbie Haven, right by the crew boats, until mid-October) or from the reservoir boathouse.

The Rivers Path Guided Canoe Trips – Profound canoe experiences… at nature’s pace. Experience the magic of a hidden gem on the Front Range for a day trip! Following all COVID-19 protocols which can be found from the main website.

Wilderness Rides & Guides – Open, ready for business and are available for calls, questions and reservations for summer 2020! Enjoy backpacking and multi-day hiking, mountain biking and bike tours as well as fly fishing and rock climbing. You can even zip line and whitewater raft! View company COVID-19 updates and guidelines here.

Don’t leave your furry friends out on all the action! Dog parks and walking trails are also a great way to social distance while exercising and spending some time with your best friend! Please review Dog Park Rules & Etiquette here.

East Boulder Dog Park – 5660 Sioux Dr. Fenced area for both large and small dogs. There is a concrete barrier in the lake that some dogs are able to climb   – Large area is about 1.5 acres.
-Small area is about .45 acres.
-There is limited water access to a small lake.
NOTE: Be careful as water quality can vary. Pick up and remove pet excrement to assist with water quality issues. Algae bloom information.

Foothills Dog Park – 800 Cherry Ave. Two acre fenced park with a separate areas for both small and large dogs.                                                                  – Large area is about 1.6 acres
– Small area is about .5 acres

Howard Heuston Off-leash Dog Area – 34th & Iris, then south to O’Neal Parkway. Please note this as an ‘off-leash dog area’ and has different rules than a ‘dog park’.Please visit the Howard Heuston webpage for a summary of the rules.
– Voice and Sight Control area is designated north of the partial fence only.
– The remainder of the park is leash law.
– The size of the Voice and Sight area is about 1.25 acres.

Valmont Dog Park – approx 5300 Valmont
Fenced area for both large and small dogs.                                                       – Large area is about 3 acres.
– Small area is about .25 acres.
– It is a dog park at Valmont City Park .
– A water spigot is available seasonally.

Tail-Wag-Worthy Trails can be found below! Check out Boulder’s color-coded dog regulation map here, that tells you the exact rules for each trail in Boulder. Be a good human and always clean up after your pet! Always be cautious of algae blooms!

Wonderland Lake Trailhead in North Boulder is a nice, leisurely jaunt around a gorgeous glassy lake with Flatiron views in the distance.

South Mesa Trailhead has a network of pleasant trails crossing the South Boulder Creek. Avoid Towhee Trail however, which is closed to dogs.

Chautauqua Trailhead is a popular choice for bikers with their dogs, a variety of trails will put you up close to the Flatirons.

Be safe and have fun out there!

Celebrate Our Great Nation – Local Fireworks Update

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Photo credit: KOAA.com

It’s almost the 4th of July in Colorado and, of course, things are going to be looking pretty different for us this year!

We have adapted to so many changes over the past few months and have learned a great deal of new ways to stay connected, and continue to enjoy some of our favorite moments and holidays.

 

There will still be fireworks shows and parades held, but most will be virtual and not in person events. Here is a list of cities that are trying new approaches for 4th of July Celebrations! Due to COVID-19 and fire dangers, all events are subject to change.

Photo credit: Pinterest.com

 

Erie’s  Parks and Recreation Department is offering “Porch Party Kits” with crafts and games to celebrate the Fourth of July without fireworks. They are available through the city’s website.

 

Longmont’s  plans are up in the air, though the city may still hold it’s fireworks celebration on July 4th at 9:30 pm Text LOCO4TH to 888777 or check the city website  for more information.

 

Brighton  canceled its celebration in the park, but there will still be fireworks beginning at dusk on the Fourth of July. The display from eastern Brighton will be broadcast on channels 8 and 881, as well as on the city’s facebook page.

 

Berthoud  will still hold its fireworks display on July 3, starting around 9:15 pm. The fire department will set off fireworks from Waggener Farms, though gatherings are prohibited on the property. They also will set them off higher in the sky, so they can be seen from a greater distance and home viewing.

 

Loveland  is collaborating with Fort Collins and Larimer County for its first drive-in fireworks display at The Ranch Events Complex. The gates open at 7:30 pm for cars to enter and fill the parking lots. Participants must remain in or near their cars. Fireworks will start at about 9:15 pm, and viewers can tune in to 96.1 KISS-FM for music to accompany the show.

 

Windsor  fireworks start at 9:10 pm. Instead of Boardwalk Park, this year’s fireworks display will be launched between the Poudre River Trail to the north and New Liberty Rd. to the south and between 7th St. to the east and Colorado Blvd. to the west. This location is considered to be the highest point in town. For those who won’t be able to see it from their home, residents are asked to disperse into open spaces, along sidewalks and on bike paths, observing physical distancing guidelines. On-site viewing will not  be available.

 

Firestone  fireworks are moving back to Saddleback Golf Course and will be shot-off just north of the 15th hole around 9:30 pm, visible from Miner’s Park. The Town of Firestone will have parking available for an excellent view of the show at the property that surrounds Town Hall. Food Trucks will be available in the Town Hall parking lot. All participating Food Vendors will have online ordering options for your health and safety. Information on participating Food Trucks will be available the week prior to the event on the website as well as Facebook page.

 

Colorado Spring’s  4th of July Symphony on Your Porch, from 8:30-10 pm, Colorado Springs Philharmonic’s annual patriotic concert will be broadcast on local radio stations while fireworks will light up the night sky from various locations. Fireworks will also be streamed live.

 

Morrison’s  Bandimere Speedway: Jet Car Nationals & Family Festival is a festival with drag racing, live music, troop salute, jet cars and more at the Speedway. Elimination rounds start at 12:30 pm, Pre-race ceremony at 6 pm, show starts at 7 pm and  fireworks at about 9:45 pm  Tickets run $18 to $30 in advance, $21 to $33 at the gate. Parking is $15. Discount coupons available at participating Brakes Plus & Chick-fil-a locations. Those in the vicinity should be able to see the fireworks. Check the Speedway website for radio stations carrying simulcasts of the music.

 

 

Cities with Canceled Fourth of July Shows

  • Arvada
  • Aurora
  • Boulder
  • Broomfield
  • Denver: Civic Center park, Coors Field, Empower Field
  • Englewood
  • Golden
  • Green Valley Ranch
  • Highlands Ranch
  • Lafayette
  • Lakewood
  • Parker
  • Thornton
  • Westminster

 

Photo credit: Clientwise.com

 

List of Boulder County Restaurants Offering Dine-In Seating!

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It’s official! Colorado restaurants can resume in-person dining.

Check below to see if any of your local favorites are on the list for Boulder County

*We recommend calling ahead!

Click here to view the Colorado Department of Public Health’s COVID-19 Guidelines for Restaurants and Food Service! 

Boulder

The Kitchen
303-544-5973
1039 Pearl Street
Serving a limited menu to guests with a reservation

The Flagstaff House
303-442-4640
1138 Flagstaff Road
Best restaurant views in Boulder! Call or visit Open Table for a reservation, but note all outdoor and window tables cannot be reserved and will be seated on a first come, first serve basis

Frasca Food & Wine
303-442-6966
1738 Pearl Street
Boulder’s swanky spot is now open to reservations only; make yours at Tock

Jax Fish House
303-444-1811
928 Pearl Street
Dinning room open to guests with reservations

Mateo
303-443-7766
1837 Pearl Street
Patio is now open for guests!

Oak at Fourteenth
303-444-3622
1400 Pearl Street
Patio is open for first come, first served seating. Dinning room will open for in-house seating on Wednesday, June 17th

Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar
Multiple Boulder – area locations
Open with single-use menus and a maximum of six guests per table

The Buff Restaurant
303-442-9150
2600 Canyon Boulevard
Check the Facebook page  here  for details on how to secure a spot on the wait list

Pizzeria Locale
303-442-3003
1730 Pearl Street
Open to reservations only, available through Tock

Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant
303-444-3690
1101 Walnut Street
Dinning room is open!

Salt the Bistro
303-444-7258
Dine in the dinning room or on one of two expanded patios

Santo New Mexican Eatery
303-442-6100
1265 Alpine Avenue
New outdoor seating available, reservations strongly recommended

Leaf Vegetarian Restaurant
303-442-1485
1701 Pearl Street
Dinning room is open!

Roadhouse Boulder Depot
303-443-2167
2366 Junction Place
In-house dinning available

 

Louisville, Lafayette & Niwot

1914 House 
303-834-9751
121 Second Avenue, Niwot
Open for dine-in service with initial hours of 4 to 8pm Wednesday – Sunday

Lucky Pie Pizza
720-684-6888
7916 Niwot Road, Niwot
Now offering patio service for Friday and Saturday nights from 4-8pm to reservations only. Email sarah@luckypiepizza.com to make a reservation

Bob’s Diner
303-665-1056
820 Main Street, Louisville
Now open for dine-in service

Waterloo
303-993-2094
817 Main Street, Louisville
Now open for dine-in service daily

Zucca Italian Restaurant
303-666-6499
808 Main Street, Louisville
Now open for limited in-house dining! Reservations are highly recommended as they have limited capacity and are ensuring proper social distancing

The Melting Pot
303-666-7777
732 Main Street, Louisville
Re-opened with reduced capacity. Reservation only for 4-course dining experience

The Huckleberry
303-666-8020
700 Main Street, Louisville
Now Open! Limited in-house dining and take-out available

Sushi Yoshi
720-304-0300
917 Front Street, Suite 100, Louisville
Open for dine-in service with modified hours

740 Front
720-519-1972
740 Front Street, Louisville
Offering outdoor patio service & curbside pickup, reservations recommended

Casa Alegre
303-665-2833
1006 Pine Street, Louisville
Enjoy the outdoor patio!

Community
720-890-3793
206 S. Public Road
Open for dine-in service, get details on the Facebook page  here

Delicious Z’s
303-862-8487
802 S. Public Road D
This breakfast joint is open with indoor and outdoor seating

Reelfish
720-630-8053
2770 Arapahoe Road
This fish and chips joint is now seating customers in the dining room

Tip Top Savory Pies
720-845-2155
105 N. Public Road
This bakery is open weekdays only. Visit the Instagram page for updates  here

 

Longmont

Jefe’s Tacos & Tequila
303-827-3790
246 Main Street
Reopened with expanded outdoor seating; find updates on the Facebook page  here

The Post Brewing Co.
Boulder, Lafayette and Longmont locations! Dinning rooms currently open, make your reservation on Open Table

Lucile’s Creole Cafe
303-774-9814
518 Kimbark Street
Dinning rooms officially re-opened

 

 

Colorado Landmark’s Commitment to Safe Showings

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As we begin to carefully re-open some areas of our lives, including showings, we remain deeply committed to the safety of our agents, clients, and neighbors. We are honored by your trust in us, and we take our responsibility to our communities seriously. We are taking the necessary steps to ensure we continue to provide the white glove service we have been known for for 43 years.

Here are some ways we are working to serve our clients while keeping our staff, brokers, and clients safe:

Virtual tours first

Before we schedule any in-person showings of properties, we will work to ensure the buyers are pre-approved and ready, willing and able to move.  This will include a thorough review of virtual tours, photos, online floorplans and disclosures, and when possible, a drive by of the neighborhood.

Safe showing protocols

Here are the steps we are taking for safe in-person showings:

  • Parties will drive separately and meet their agent at the property.
  • Showings will be limited to decision-makers who will be signing the contract, kids and other family members should stay at home whenever possible.
  • Both buyers and sellers will be asked to sign a disclosure stating that they are not experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms or have knowingly been exposed to COVID-19 in the past 14 days.
  • No overlapping showings will be allowed, so only one set of buyers and their agent will be in the property at a time.
  • All parties will wear masks.
  • Your agent will wear a mask and gloves, and provide gloves and booties whenever possible if clients need them, and change gloves in between showings.
  • Your agent will unlock the door, and turn on lights so buyers will not have to touch anything in the home.
  • Buyers will tour the home with their agent while practicing social distancing.
  • All surfaces that were touched during the showing will be wiped down afterwards in preparation for the next showing.
  • Once the showing is complete, buyers can have a phone or video conference with the agent to discuss the next steps.

Safe, Easy Transactions from Beginning to End

For as long as the Colorado Safer at Home order is in place, we will continue to work with photographers, inspectors, appraisers and contractors to ensure safety is the priority, and much of the real estate transaction will continue to be completed virtually.  This includes virtual buyer and seller consultations, electronic document signing, safe practices during inspections and appraisals, and contact-free closings.

As always, we are available to answer your questions, address any concerns you have, and talk to you about your particular needs.  Through this uncertain time we have learned to adapt in new ways, and are constantly taking steps to make the entire process or buying or selling a home as easy and stress-free as possible.  Our agents and staff have used this time to sharpen our skills, learn new tools, and are emerging better and stronger than ever.

We are here for you, as we have been for the past 43 years, and as the world changes, that will remain the same.