Why Right Now Is a Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity for Sellers

If you’re thinking about selling your house in 2022, you truly have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity at your fingertips. When selling anything, you always hope for  strong demand  for the item coupled with a  limited supply. That  maximizes your leverage  when you’re negotiating the sale. Home sellers are in that exact situation right now. Here’s why.

Demand Is Very Strong

According to the latest  Existing Home Sales Report  from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 6.18 million homes were sold in 2021. This was the largest number of home sales in 15 years. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist for NAR, explains:

“Sales for the entire year finished strong, reaching the highest annual level since 2006. . . . With mortgage rates expected to rise in 2022, it’s likely that a portion of December buyers were intent on avoiding the inevitable rate increases.”

Demand isn’t expected to weaken this year, either. In addition, the  Mortgage Finance Forecast, published last week by the Mortgage Bankers’ Association (MBA), calls for existing-home sales to reach 6.4 million homes this year.

Supply Is Very Limited

The same sales report from NAR also reveals the months’ supply of inventory just hit the lowest number of the century. It notes:

“Total housing inventory at the end of December amounted to 910,000 units, down 18% from November and down 14.2% from one year ago (1.06 million). Unsold inventory sits at a 1.8-month supply at the present sales pace, down from 2.1 months in November and from 1.9 months in December 2020.”

The reality is, inventory decreases every year in December. That’s just how the typical seasonal trend goes in real estate. However, the following graph emphasizes how this December was lower than any other December going all the way back to 1999.

Right Now, Sellers Have Maximum Leverage

As mentioned above, when there’s strong demand for an item and a limited supply of it available, the seller has maximum  leverage  in the negotiation. In the case of homeowners who are thinking about selling, there may never be a better time than right now. While demand is this high and  inventory  is this low, you’ll have leverage in all aspects of the sale of your house.

Today’s buyers know they need to be  flexible negotiators  that make very  competitive offers, so here are a few areas that could tip in your favor when your house goes on the market:

  • Competitive sales price
  • Flexible closing date
  • Potential for a leaseback to allow you more time to find a home
  • Minimal offer contingencies

Bottom Line

If you’re thinking of selling your house this year, now is the optimal time to list it. Contact us at info@coloradolandmark.com to learn more about putting your house on the market today.

Preparation, Presentation & Pricing

THE IMPORTANCE OF PREPARATION, PRESENTATION & PRICING

Featuring Colorado Landmark agent Phil Booth

We may be in a strong sellers’ market this year, but we firmly believe that in order to sell for top dollar in a timely manner that the three P’s are super important… preparation, presentation, and pricing!

 

Case in point:  Rising Star Award recipient and agent Phil Booth picked up an expired Boulder Townhome listing this fall. The home was vacant, and fairly outdated. It had been on the market for three months without selling. His sellers spent $4,500 on some maintenance issues, new bathroom counters and interior painting throughout (preparation), and $2,000 on staging (presentation). They priced it carefully, based on direct comparisons in the area (pricing). It went under contract in one  day for $12,000 above the expired listing price!

 

Below are the incredible before and after photos documenting this transformation.

 

 

Colorado Landmark offers a variety of tools through our Landmark Advantage Program to bring maximum value to our clients, and take the stress out of buying and selling a home.  Given that every house is unique, we thoughtfully create a customized plan for each client.  We have partnered with fantastic companies to add even more value. Concierge and Staging Solutions fueled by Zoom Casa and access to the Transitional Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) program from Elevations Credit Union, the No. 1 credit union mortgage lender in Colorado, are just a couple of them. To learn more about Landmark Advantage, contact us today!

 

8 Great Reasons to Buy This Home!

by Phil Booth

Hey there my fellow CLR folk,

 

I have this great property listed for sale at 775 Kalmia Ave, in Boulder.  This is a wonderfully secluded and peaceful spot, and with over 8500SF on 1.3 acres, there is plenty of elbow room.

 

I thought you might enjoy an easy look at the property by checking out this great new ‘Studeo’ interactive story-book.  Huge thanks to Alyssa for helping me produce this.  She did a great job of compiling and editing this great piece.  She pushed the boundaries of the ‘Studeo’ platform in creating this and, I think it came out really well!

 

Please click on the link to check it out, and please feel free to share this link with your buyers.

 

http://775kalmia.landmarkstories.com

 

AND NOW,  the 8 great reasons your buyers might want to buy this property.

 

A recent (April 2020) poll by realtor.com, revealed some interesting facts about what is really important in our homes, given our new ‘Stay-at Home’ perspectives!  Based on the poll, the following attributes surfaced as being really important to homeowners.
a quiet neighborhood
outdoor space
proximity to grocery stores and pharmacies
additional square footage
multiple flexible spaces with privacy
an updated kitchen
space for a home gym
OK, that is only 7… and the 8th, and BONUS reason…. AN INDOOR SWIMMING POOL!

 

Feel free to reach out with questions.

 

Be well and stay safe.

 

Phil Booth 

REALTOR

303-817-8307

Phil@ColoradoLandmark.com

Colorado Landmark’s Commitment to Safe Showings

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.

Showing Update for Boulder County & Beyond

Our industry has been experiencing almost daily changes in the way we practice, and what we are allowed to do. This past week, after Colorado Governor Jared Polis announced the “Safer at Home” policy for the State, many individual counties updated their orders to extend “Stay at Home” policies for a longer period.

Here is an update on the current rules by county, (as of April 30, 2020) as it pertains to the real estate business:

Real Estate Showings: In-person real estate showings are permitted under the following conditions:
  • Unoccupied (vacant) homes and land only
  • Appointment only (no open houses)
  • Masks required for all participants
  • Number of in-person participants limited to the greatest extent possible
    • Participation by children is strongly discouraged
  • Social Distancing Requirements are met at all times
    • From the Order: Social Distancing Requirements. To reduce the risk of disease transmission, individuals shall maintain at least a six-foot distance from other individuals, wash hands with soap and water for at least twenty seconds as frequently as possible or using hand sanitizer, cover coughs or sneezes (into the sleeve or elbow, not hands), regularly clean high-touch surfaces, and not shake hands.
    • Must otherwise adhere to all guidance on social distancing
    • Must maintain 6 feet of distance from customers when showing houses
  • Must maintain a detailed log of customer interactions in case contact tracing becomes necessary. This log should include name, date, and location of contact, as well as the contact’s phone number and/or email address.
  • Must provide gloves and masks for any customer interactions
  • Should perform tasks remotely or virtually whenever possible, including pre- and post-visit conferences

Showings are not allowed until May 9th.

Tri-County Health’s website has some guidance that says showings can resume in Douglas County on April 27th but says nothing about showings for Adams and Arapahoe Counties.  This implies that showings may not be allowed in these two Counties but it is unclear as there is nothing specific stating showings are prohibited.
Real Estate Showings/Closings:
may continue in Denver subject to the following provisions:

  • Open houses are not permitted
  • Properties must be vacant, with no one living there, unless the only occupant in the home is the owner and not a rental tenant
  • Social Distancing requirements must be followed at all times
  • All commonly-used surfaces must be wiped down and sanitized before and after the showings.

At any time that we are showing properties, we ensure that:

-Buyers have thoroughly vetted the property online, reviewed all documents and disclosures, virtual tours, and floorplans, and if possible has driven by the property ahead of time.

– All parties are required to wear masks, gloves, and booties and sign a disclosure stating that they have not knowingly been exposed to or are experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19.  Buyers are also instructed not to touch anything in the property.

– Surfaces and doorknobs are wiped down in between showings.

Of course, these rules are changing frequently and may change again.  At Colorado Landmark, we are focused on adapting each day to make sure we can serve our clients safely and effectively, no matter what is going on.  Showings are just one part of the transaction, and we have procedures in place for the entire process including virtual buyer and seller consultations, virtual tours and showings, electronic document signing, safe and virtual inspections and appraisals, and no-contact closings.

If we can help you in any way, please contact us! 

www.coloradolandmark.com

Drive-thru closings – the new normal?

As we have mentioned, we are working hard to accept this “new normal” we are living in, and continuously needing to adapt to the changing times.  What we know to be true: even in times of crisis, people need to buy or sell their homes.  Today’s post is by our wonderful agent Phil Booth, who completed his first “drive through” closing today in the parking lot of a Land Title office.

Here is his story:

“New terrain”… we are hearing this a lot lately.

Indeed, it was new terrain today for this REALTOR today at Land Title in Longmont, where I was involved in my first ‘Curb-side’ closing with my first time home buyers.

The sellers had closed separately, so it was just my buyers parked in one spot and me alongside, in my own vehicle, but with one parking space between us (social distancing!).

The closer came out with paperwork galore (yes, a loan was involved).

She had done a beautiful job of writing explanations and marking each signature space with lovely sticky, color coded arrows to make things as easy as possible for my buyers.

She left us to it for awhile, and I was able to ‘cheer-lead’ and give explanations from the ‘safety’ of my car.

When it was time to sign the documents requiring a notary, we called the closer up, and she trotted out and provided explanations and witnessed the signing.

Things went really smoothly… the only downsides, it was pretty chilly with the window down, there were not the usual lovely drinks and snacks available, and the bathroom facilities are not very handy!

Phil Booth

303-817-8307

phil@coloradolandmark.com

What does the “Stay at Home” order mean for Boulder-area real estate?

On the evening of March 23, 2020, the City of Boulder issued emergency “Stay at Home” orders for individuals in the city.

It requires all individuals to stay at their place of residence, and that they are only allowed to leave their residences for specific approved “Essential Activities” (Things like grocery shopping, obtaining medical care or medicine, outdoor activities while practicing social distancing), “Essential Governmental Functions and Infrastructure”, and “Essential Businesses”.

(This is a VERY short summary, here is the link to the full order:
https://bouldercolorado.gov/city-emergency-orders-related-to-covid-19)

UPDATED 3/25/2020:  Boulder County has followed suit and has also issued a “Stay at Home Order” – the link to that order is here:  https://www.bouldercounty.org/families/disease/covid-19/stay-at-home-order/

Real Estate is listed as an “Essential Business” in Section 6.f.24: “Professional services such as legal, insurance, accounting, real estate and tax preparation services, including ancillary and supporting services.”

Colorado Landmark, Realtors has been diligently working to ensure the safety of our agents, clients and the community by establishing stringent practices for showing homes, and working with our lenders, title partners, inspectors and appraisers to ensure that all health and safety precautions are taken during this challenging time.

We also understand that even in times of uncertainty and crisis, people need to buy or sell their homes, so we are working to ensure that our clients are able to do so – through new marketing technology, virtual tours and virtual open houses, video buyer/seller consultations, and electronic document sharing and signing.

If you have questions about your specific situation, please reach out to your Colorado Landmark agent, or visit us at www.coloradolandmark.com.

Easy Home Updates You Can Do Now


Being stuck at home can be overwhelming at times but look on the bright (or maybe dusty!) side – now maybe you have time to get a jump start on spring cleaning.  Here are some easy, affordable updates to keep you and your family busy and help your home look its best.

 

Whether you are thinking about selling, or simply want to clean up and simplify your life, the #1 to-do on many people’s list is de-cluttering. This can be time consuming if you have many different items to sort through, so it’s the perfect opportunity to tackle the more daunting tasks. Here are some great tips from tidying expert Marie Kondo, to help keep you motivated and spark some joy in cleaning!

https://www.insider.com/tidying-up-with-marie-kondo-organizing-tips-2019-1#stay-committed-to-the-process-and-know-that-theres-an-end-1

Is there a room in your house that could use a fresh coat of paint to liven it up? It’s amazing what changing the color of a space can do for the feel of it! Even adding an accent or two is an inexpensive way to change a room and make it more open and spacious. Bringing more energy into an area makes everyone happier and helps with the flow of the environment. Here are some fun painting ideas to get you started: 

https://www.familyhandyman.com/painting/13-great-paint-ideas-for-your-living-room/

Now that we are starting to see some warmer weather and sunny days, it’s time to start thinking about your garden and cleaning up the landscaping for the summer! Trimming up dead bushes and shrubs helps make sure the new growth can reach the sun and get big and strong. There are tons of things you can do to get your equipment ready as well as your yard, for the long summer ahead. Here are ten early spring yard maintenance tips from the Farmers Almanac to keep you on track:

https://www.almanac.com/content/10-tips-maintaining-beautiful-yard


Cleaning and disinfecting is at the top of everyone’s list right now, with trying to keep the spread of germs down and help everyone stay healthy. A clean home is where it starts so here are 20 Genius Cleaning Hacks for a Tidy Home in No Time!

https://www.bhg.com/homekeeping/house-cleaning/tips/cleaning-hacks/

Want some more great ideas on how to stay busy making home improvements while your spending more time there? Here’s a great list of ideas from Better Homes & Gardens if you need some more inspiration!

https://www.bhg.com/home-improvement/remodeling/budget-remodels/weekend-home-projects/?slide=slide_21b112de-9100-4fb6-9843-dec4bcfeb40b#slide_21b112de-9100-4fb6-9843-dec4bcfeb40b

The Modern Architecture + Design Society was proud to return to Boulder for the first time in 5 years to present the Boulder MA+DS Modern Home Tour! 

The Modern Architecture + Design Society was proud to return to Boulder for the first time in 5 years to present the Boulder MA+DS Modern Home Tour! 

Only 6 incredibly special homes were chosen to be featured on the tour which showcased the best of modern architecture and design in Boulder County.

Participants were invited to take a self-guided tour through each home, and finish at The Aspen Leaf House, a one of a kind home designed by Charles Haertling, to enjoy an after party hosted by Candace Loving, a broker with Colorado Landmark, Realtors.

Guests were allowed to go at their own pace and in their own order through the featured homes which included 52 Boulder View Lane, also known as the Aspen Leaf Home, 6590 Lakeview Dr., a gorgeous home overlooking Baseline Lake, and the Alder House which is built primarily out of shipping containers.

Thank you to the hundreds of guests who turned out to experience the best designs that Boulder has to offer!

2 of the 6 homes that were featured on the tour are currently for sale through Colorado Landmark, Realtors. For more information click here!

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2 of the 6 homes chosen to be featured are currently for sale through Colorado Landmark, Realtors.

6590 Lakeview Drive – Listed by Meghan Bach  619-955-2788

This stunning contemporary masterpiece is quintessential Boulder, outperforming in every facet. Perched on an acre, endless wow views synergistically converge with exceptional Craftsmanship, Architecture & Design. An avatar of Efficiency, Sustainability & Automation. Shimmering lake, verdant Foothills & graceful Flatirons embrace you at every turn in this High IQ, NetZero home. Symbiotic outdoors-in floor plan engaging every square foot. Retreat to your private sauna or soak in the views.

 

 

 

52 Boulder View Lane – Listed by Joel Ripmaster 303-641-3377

Ask yourself, what would it be like to be at one with nature? “We need the tonic of wilderness…” Thoreau wrote as he sat by Walden Pond pondering this question. Renowned Boulder architect, Charles Haertling, captured this essence in the last home of his storied career, The Aspen Leaf Home. Perched overlooking the Boulder Valley and replicating the organic form of its namesake this home is artistry in Architecture. Let the natural splendor beguile you and live wild and free as nature intended.

 

Friday’s Featured Listing- 7441 Old Mill Trail, Boulder, CO

BEAUTIFUL HOME ON LUSH GREEN LOT

7441 OLD MILL TRAIL, BOULDER, CO, 80301

4 Beds / 3 Baths

Price: $889,000

IRES MLS # 863472 

Listed By: Mara Yehl – 303-579-6879 

Colorado Landmark, Realtors

View IRES MLS Sheet

Location is key- You always wanted to live in a park, this is it! Backing beautiful Boulder Country Club golf course this home features many enjoyable outdoor seating options. Property is well maintained with a Pottery Barn feel. Hardwood oak flooring on the main floor and three bedrooms upstairs. 4th bedroom can double as an office upstairs with views. Close to various schools including Boulder Country Day. Simple changes to this home will bring an upscale feeling. 

Interior Features: Eat-in kitchen with pantry, 2 deck areas, and updated windows. Custom closets with lots of storage. Newer baths, kitchen, cupboards.