• Winter in Colorado,Robert Tait

    Winter in Colorado

    There's no doubt that Colorado is a scenic state all year-round, but the winter months can be particularly special. For those who live here, winter is a time to bundle up, enjoy the outdoors, and take advantage of all this beautiful state has to offer. But if you're new to Colorado or just visiting for the winter, it can all be a bit overwhelming. Where should you go? What should you do? And most importantly, what should you expect? We'll give you all the need-to-know info about spending winter in Colorado. If you're looking for some winter activities ideas on how to enjoy the best of what winter in Colorado has to offer, from the best places to enjoy the snow to the array of winter events, we've got you covered. Here is our guide on how to make the most of the Colorado winter. The Colorado Winter: Things to See and Do Colorado in the winter is a breathtaking sight. The snow-capped mountains and frigid temperatures make for a unique landscape. And, of course, there are the world-famous ski resorts. But Colorado is more than just a pretty face. The winter months bring a host of outdoor activities, from sledding and skating to snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. It's also a great time to curl up with a good book or take in a movie at one of the many indoor entertainment venues. So whether you are an outdoor person or prefer the comfort of indoors, there are plenty of activities to enjoy. What to Expect Weather-Wise One of the first things people want to know most about winter in Colorado is what the weather is like. And it can be a bit unpredictable. We can have days where the sun is shining, and the temperature is a balmy 60 degrees, followed by a week of sub-zero temperatures and blizzards. That's why it's essential to be prepared for anything. One thing you can always count on, though, is snow. Lots and lots of snow. In fact, Colorado is one of the snowiest states in the country, averaging around 15 feet of snow each year. So, if you're looking to get your fill of winter wonderland fun, this is the place to be. What to Do for Fun Now that we've got the weather out of the way, let's talk about what there is to do for fun in Colorado during the winter months. There's no shortage of options. Colorado has something for everyone, whether you're looking for a relaxing day spent exploring a charming mountain town or an adrenaline-pumping day on the slopes. Hit the Ski Slopes The ski scene in Colorado is world class, with some of the best resorts in the country. There are endless options for great skiing, from Aspen and Vail to Breckenridge and Steamboat Springs. And with so many world-renowned resorts to choose from, it's no wonder that Colorado is one of the most popular states for skiing. Whether you're looking for a challenging slope or a beginner-friendly hill, you're sure to find what you're looking for in Colorado.  Popular Ski Locations in Colorado Arapahoe Basin Crested Butte Aspen Highlands Beaver Creek Breckenridge Durango Mountain Steamboat Springs Relax and Unwind in Colorado's Hot Springs Soak up the stunning views of the Rocky Mountains while relaxing in one of Colorado's many hot springs. There are dozens of hot springs to choose from, all with different temperatures, sizes, and amenities. Here are some of our favorites: Glenwood Hot Springs is located in Glenwood Springs, Colorado and is the largest and most well-known hot springs pool in the world. Iron Mountain Hot Springs is also located in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, with 16 different soaking pools of varying temperatures. The springs are fed by water that is heated by geothermal energy beneath the earth’s surface. The average temperature of the springs is around 106 degrees Fahrenheit. Strawberry Park Hot Springs is located in Steamboat Springs, Colorado and features a variety of all-natural pools and hot springs. Holiday Markets Colorado has so many amazing markets to explore. Listed below are just a few of the best Denver markets. Christkindl Marketis one of the best holiday markets in Colorado, USA. It's a traditional German authentic market with stalls selling handmade goods, food, and drinks. Christkindl is located in Denver's Civic Center Park and is open from mid-November to Christmas Eve. Cherry Creek Market is another excellent option for holiday shopping in Colorado. This market is held outdoors and features over 100 vendors selling everything from handmade jewelry to gourmet food. Cherry Creek Market is open from mid-November to Christmas Eve. Firefly Handmade is a smaller market focusing on eco-friendly and sustainable goods. Around 80+ vendors at Firefly Handmade usually sell items like candles, soaps, pottery and much more. Firefly Handmade takes place in Denver's Washington Park and is open from mid-November. Enjoy Ice Skating If you're in or near Denver, be sure to check out the Downtown Denver Rink at Skyline Park. Skate under the stars with a romantic partner or enjoy some family fun. Then warm up with hot chocolate or roasted chestnuts from one of the nearby vendors. Take in Nature's Beauty Colorado is home to some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the country. Don't let the cold climate put you off; go explore alpine meadows, towering peaks, and pristine forests. Be sure to dress for the weather and pack plenty of snacks and water. Snowshoeing Try snowshoeing if you want to see even more of Colorado's breathtaking scenery. Snowshoeing is a great way to get exercise and explore parts of the state that you wouldn't be able to experience on foot. Just be sure to dress warmly and take plenty of breaks. Sledding at Ruby Hill Park   Another great activity to do in Denver in the winter is sledding at Ruby Hill Park. The park has a hill that is perfect for sledding, and you can rent sleds if you don't have your own. Winter Events and Christmas Every winter, Colorado comes alive with a wide range of events. From world-famous festivals to outdoor experiences, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Here are just a few of the best winter events in Colorado. Wintersköl Vail Snow Days Pixar Putt Ullrgrass Music and Beer Festival Berthoud Snowfest & Colorado Snow Sculpting Competition X Games Aspen Christmas in Colorado There are many festive events happening all over Colorado, but for many, the Christmas season is a time to travel, and Boulder, Colorado, is considered one of the best places in the USA to spend Christmas. This city is known for its vibrant festive atmosphere and stunning Christmas lights, so it's no wonder so many people flock to it during Christmas. When it comes to winter in Colorado, what's not to love? All in all, Colorado is a great place to live, no matter what time of year it is. There’s always something to do, and the scenery is just beautiful. Looking to buy a home in Colorado? Engel & Voelkers - Downing Street Group, specialize in Colorado real estate, including luxury real estate. There are so many spectacular homes in Colorado, and we want to help you find the perfect one for you. Contact us today to find out more.

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  • 7 Top Reasons Why You Should Hire A Real Estate Agent,Robert Tait

    7 Top Reasons Why You Should Hire A Real Estate Agent

    Demand for properties in Denver isn't slow. Rather, it's limited by what is up for sale. The lack of supply paired with the strong demand is driving record-high prices. For a family looking to buy or sell a home in 2022, knowing how to make the right choice can make all the difference. That's where working with a real estate agent can turn the tide. Here are the most notable reasons you should hire a real estate agent. Regardless of whether you are buying or selling a property. 1.  Knowledge of the Surrounding Area There is a clear housing market in Denver that's a lucrative business. The average sale price has gone up by 34%. While the median home price went up by 24.4% from 2020. And the cost of homes is expected to remain high. When you hire a real estate agent, you get a person with key knowledge of the area they work in. They are well aware of the industry buzz and can keep you up to date with the latest trends. That also means pointing out directions from and to a place, demographics, and other practical info that people may find useful. 2.  Gain Access To Professional Network When You Hire A Real Estate Agent Knowing the market is not the only thing that matters. When hiring a realtor, you also can get a list of references to people who've worked with this person. This is a network of individuals in the housing business that can give you practical insight into whatever it is that you are looking for. 3.  Price Guidance Mitigating the price is a top priority. Especially now when the prices are so high. Agents are here to guide clients on making the right price choices and weigh out the data they have on the current price range. For anyone looking to buy or sell a property in Denver, talking to an agent can help them make informed decisions. 4.  Confidentiality All the information provided to a real estate agent remains confidential and away from competing interests. Meaning that you are safe and sound in the hands of trained professionals when selling or buying a property. 5. Paperwork Handling Purchasing a property is not a one-page agreement. This is something that can run 10 pages or more. And, you will need to know everything to handle the process well. Real estate agents know every inch of that paper like the back of their hands. They can handle all the paperwork with ease. 6.  Negotiating Skills A skilled real estate agent for hire removes themselves from the emotional aspects of the job. They convey a professional agenda and can mitigate any agreement. They are skilled at handling transactions and negotiating solid deals. 7.  Creating Consistency The core of an agent's success is to continue their career with a hefty number of referrals. That means they will put in the extra effort to give clients the ultimate experience. Agents also stay in the business, so that you can come back and hire them again. They are well-informed people who may stay in touch with clients looking to buy more properties.

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  • 5 of the Best Home Staging Tips to Sell Your Home,Robert Tait

    5 of the Best Home Staging Tips to Sell Your Home

    Are you short on time and money, but want to stage a house that has a real buyer appeal? Home staging a house before you sell your home is one of the most lucrative ways of making a solid income. Particularly if you want that property to achieve the highest sale value. Currently, the demand for property in Denver is increasing. With millennials at their peak of buying homes and the shift to working from home, more homes in Denver have been sold in 2020 compared to the 2000s. This led to a surge in demand and a drop in housing inventory. In the Denver Metro area, home sales are up by 20%, as opposed to 2020. And are expected to remain high. But, to really reap the benefits, staging your home should be a top priority. Here is how to do it right.   1. The Most Important In Home Staging Is Do a Deep Clean Roughly 82% of buyers' agents explain that staging your home makes it easier for people to visualize the property they like before they buy it. Cleanliness conveys a message that the seller is willing to put in the effort to make the property visually appealing. That includes cleaning under every nook and cranny. As well as the ceilings, floors and any other area that may be commonly overlooked. The goal is simple - make every appliance, item, decoration, or furniture look new.   2.  Put Yourself In the Buyer's Shoes Your buyers want to envision themselves in the house you sell. That means you should depersonalize the property. Take out any keepsakes, family photos, or items you hold dear to your heart. With home staging, the ambiance should reflect the ideas of the current inhabitants. So that they can feel more at home.   3. Add Some Greenery More people are buying into "plant parenthood". They love taking care of houseplants, particularly for those who live in urban areas. Having a couple on the balcony can really make the house stand out, and give it that relaxing vibe. To do good home staging, place a couple of potted plants in the home you are selling. It will make the area inviting and refreshing. If you already have plenty at hand, then be strategic about the placement. Don't clutter the room. Rather, position them in places where inhabitants can feel the fresh scent.   4.  Open Some of the Closets Visitors like to take a peek inside the wardrobe or closet space. Leaving strategically opened places can give them that insight and put you at an advantage. You should have at least 20% to 30% open storage space so that the visitors can get an impression of spaciousness.   5.  Make the Dining Table Stand Out People typically see the dining room like a blind spot when decorating. But, this is an area that shouldn't be overlooked. It can be off-putting if the dining table looks uninviting and bare. So, place a couple of smaller vessels in the center, rather than an oversized arrangement to make it look good. As you can see, with a little bit of planning you can go a long way. To make sure your property sells well, hire a realtor today. With the proper expertise, you can stay on the right track!

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