We get a lot of sun here in Steamboat, but Shadow Inventory in real estate has nothing to do with sunshine. Let me answer the second question first, yes it’s in Steamboat Springs, Colorado and quite frankly it’s across the country, not just in big cities hard hit by the real estate downturn. So now that we know it’s here in Steamboat Springs, let’s dig in further and understand what it is.

Shadow Inventory Defined: It’s the inventory of homes not yet for sale that will be on the market in the near future and are defined as Distressed Properties:

*  properties already foreclosed on and owned by the banks (REOs)

*  those homes in the foreclosure process

*  homes where the owners are at least 90 days delinquent on their mortgage payment

So if Shadow Inventory is not on the market yet, why talk about it?

*  The main reason is because it’s slowly being put in the market and there’s quite an inventory to work through – nationally, an estimated 70% of bank owned repossessed homes is still “in the Shadow” and has not made it to market.

*  The National Association of Realtors recently reported that over 30% of all home sales in the past few months have been distressed properties – meaning about 1 in 3 homes recently sold were formerly classified as Shadow Inventory and made it into the market to compete with non-distressed homes for sale.

*  So John and Sally who are selling to trade up their starter home to a bigger family-friendly home or Dave and Cheryl who are selling because of relocating for a job change are trying to get their investment back on their homes in order to reinvest in real estate again. But on average, 1 out of 3 times, they are competing against banks who are basically looking to get “something” back on their home loan dollar…definitely not any sort of gain on investment.

*  Net result: Shadow Inventory drives home prices down.

So back to Steamboat Springs, CO – just what percent of recent sales have been bank distressed property sales (former Shadow Inventory)?

*  In August, 17 bank sales closed accounting for just under 8% of August gross volume and just under 13% of the overall August transactions.

*  2011 year-to-date August, there have been 109 bank sales accounting for just under 10% of overall 2011 gross volume and just over 12% of the 2011 transactions year to date.

In closing, why understand and keep an eye on Shadow Inventory when it appears not to have a huge impact on the Steamboat Springs real estate market?

*  Even if bank owned sales are not as prevalent in Steamboat Springs, CO, there is still local inventory the banks need to work through, and bank owned sales, by the nature of what they represent, bring down market prices.

*  Steamboat Springs, Colorado is a ski resort town whose real estate industry “banks” on second home sales – if Shadow Inventory is hurting market prices in other areas of the country, areas we historically attracted second home buyers from, then those potential buyers may decide to stay-the-course and not invest in a second home here in Steamboat Springs, CO until they feel better about the market.

*  With 70% of the bank owned inventory still “in the shadows” according to national statistics, it could be quite a while until market confidence returns.

*  In Steamboat, we have seen a little decrease in distressed properties but more importantly we’ve seen an increase in buyers. So our inventory is holding steady at around 2,000 properties. And thus prices are holding relatively flat.

*  If in Steamboat we see a large increase in Shadow Inventory hitting the market, we will see an increase of inventory and thus a longer time on the market for real estate and thus an unsettling of prices. Or prices will most likely fall.

—For more information on buying real estate or questions regarding Steamboat Springs real estate or renting a home in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, feel free to call Charlie at 970-846-6435 or write me an email at: charlie@steamboatsmyhome.com.

Thanks,

Charlie

Here’s some very important information about foreclosures and short-sales.

Top-line answers for clients are as follows:

Credit Score
* In Foreclosure the credit score may be lowered anywhere from 250 to more than 300 points and typically will affect a credit score for over 3 years.
* In a Short Sale only late payments on mortgage will show and after the sale, mortgage is normally reported as paid as agreed, paid as negotiated or settled. This can lower the score as little as 50 points if all other payments are being made. A short sale’s effect can be as brief as 12 -18 months.
Credit History
* Foreclosure will remain as a public record permanently, and on a person’s credit history for 10 years or more.
* A Short Sale is not reported on credit history. There is no specific reporting item for short sale, and the loan is typically reported as paid in full or settled.
Current Employment
* In Foreclosure employers have the right and are effectively checking on the credit of all employees in sensitive positions. In many cases, a foreclosure is reason for immediate reassignment or termination.
* A Short Sale is not reported on a credit report and is therefore not a challenge to employment.
Future Employment
* A Foreclosure is one of the most detrimental credit items an applicant can have and in most cases will challenge employment. Many employers are requiring credit checks on all job applicants.
* A Short Sale is not reported on a credit report and is therefore not a challenge to employment.

Additional information is available from informed real estate agents as well as mortgage lenders and title companies such as Heritage Title Company in Steamboat Springs, CO who provided this very helpful information grid.

Foreclosure vs Short Sale Consequences

August year-to-date in Steamboat Springs, CO there have been 109 bank closings totaling just over $29.0 million dollars with an average price of $266,547 per unit.

—For more information on buying real estate or questions regarding Steamboat Springs real estate or renting a home in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, feel free to call Charlie at 970-846-6435 or write me an email at: charlie@steamboatsmyhome.com.

Thanks,

Charlie

Remember when I reported in July that Steamboat Springs, Colorado real estate pending numbers were looking strong…well some of those pending sales converted to closings in August leading to the second best Gross Volume Sales of the year at just over $46.5 million. There’s still a healthy inventory of pending sales through September.  In fact, September’s pending sales numbers are the highest we’ve seen in over a year.

Now let’s focus on August numbers because there is some good news to report in the last full month of summer in Steamboat Springs, CO.

Similar to July when a large land purchase bolstered the month’s sales volume, there was a $10 million plus agricultural land sale to Twentymile Coal, LLC in Hayden, CO. This sale further supports the prospects for a mining boom in the Yampa Valley as land purchases for gas, oil and coal rights have totaled over $17.2 million in two large sales over the past two months.

So what about home buyers? Well it seems that folks are already planning for some ski-in/ski-out living with 16 transactions at One Steamboat Place at the base of the Steamboat Ski Mountain in Gondola Square. The 16 transactions included two purchases rounding out the top 3 August sales (after the Hayden, CO land purchase) at $1.85 million and $1.80 million each.

Steamboat August 11 Market Report

As the beautiful fall weather kept Steamboat Springs busy in September, and pending sales are showing a lot of strength through September, the outlook is optimistic for good sales closing numbers heading into the winter months. Some additional highlights for August:

Bank Sales                                                                                                                           

*  Bank Sales were slightly up with 17 for the month of August

Steamboat Springs Foreclosed Bank Sales August ’11

Sales over $1.5M:                                                                                                     

* 8/15/2011 $10,137,000 M&B: Sections 10,11,12,14,15,23-4-87 & Sections 16,21,22,23,24,25,26,27,34,35-5-87 aka 29994 Routt County Road #27.  This sale is for two large Vacant Agricultural sites.  The total Acreage for both sites is:  8,346.83 AC.  PPAC is $1,214.47.  The Purchaser was: Twentymile Coal, LLC.  This sale is in the Hayden Market Area.

* 8/22/2011 $1,850,000 OSP Condo @ Apres Ski Way Unit R609 aka 2250 Apres Ski Way – 4 Brm 4 Bath YOC 2009 with 2,284 SF Living Area.  PPSF is $809.98.  This is a new construction sale in the Steamboat Mountain Area.

*  8/22/2011 $1,800,000 OSP Condo @ Apres Ski Way Unit R514 aka 2250 Apres Ski Way – 4 Brm 4 Bath YOC 2009 with 2,553 SF Living Area.  PPSF is $705.05.  This is a new construction sale in the Steamboat Mountain Area.

* 8/12/2011 $1,605,000 Boulder Ridge Subd Lot 2 aka 245 Boulder Ridge Road – 4 Brm 3.5 Bath YOC 2010 with 3,551 SF Living Area on .50 AC Land.  PPSF is $451.99.  This is a new construction sale in the Fish Creek Falls Area.

Steamboat $1M+ Buyer Profile August                                   

*  There were 9 sales over $1.0M in August, with all Buyers being from out of state. Two of the 9  Buyers were from Texas.

—For more information on buying real estate or questions regarding Steamboat Springs real estate or renting a home in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, feel free to call Charlie at 970-846-6435 or write me an email at: charlie@steamboatsmyhome.com.

Thanks,

Charlie

If you visit a ski resort town in the middle of winter, you know it’s all about “staying on the mountain.” Well, if you’re going to live or invest in real estate here…for many it’s all about proximity to the mountain, or in one word: location. The Mountain Area Neighborhood starts at Highway 40 and you guessed it…it goes east to the Steamboat ski area.  There’s nothing like having a 3,000 acre backyard to ensure you have lots of friends who want to visit.

When the back yard isn’t beckoning you to come out and play, your Mountain Area home has proximity to plenty of other options such as the award winning Steamboat Tennis Center, The Strings music venue, relaxing day spas, some of the area’s finest restaurants, movie theaters as well as grocery shopping, banking and shopping for household staples just minutes from the mountain base. As you would expect in Ski Town USA, the Mountain Area is a hub of activity and amenities.

Typical Mountain Area residents are:

*  a mix of full and part time residents

*  likely to be first in the gondola line on a powder morning

*  happy to mix and mingle with the thousands of guests who come to Steamboat Springs each year

Home styles run the gamut from single family residences a short drive to the mountain base to ski-in/ski-out luxury single family homes and condos situated slope-side. Some condominiums have been around since the 70’s while others are in brand new high end developments like Edgemont, One Steamboat Place and Wildhorse. Duplexes, townhomes and fractional ownership properties offer additional ownership options. There’s something for everyone who desires the conveniences of living in the midst of a world renowned ski area.

With so many residential selections, many price points are found in the Mountain Area neighborhood. Here is a snapshot of single family homes, condos and townhomes in the Mountain Area neighborhood. Typically the price range per square foot falls between $145.00 and $950.00 with an average of $362.00 per square foot for a home in the Mountain Area neighborhood. Search the entire MLS or Steamboat foreclosures for price point comparisons.

—For more information on buying real estate or questions regarding Steamboat Springs real estate or renting a home in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, feel free to call Charlie at 970-846-6435 or write me an email at: charlie@steamboatsmyhome.com.

Thanks,

Charlie

If you want to be walking distance to fantastic restaurants, fun shopping, great music venues, fishing on the Yampa River as well as having close access to hiking, biking and cross country skiing trails then the Downtown or ‘Old Town’ neighborhood as it’s known locally area is for you. It’s also the center of many community attractions such as the Winter Carnival, July 4^th Parade, Halloween trick or treating and other community events that happen throughout the year.

New mixed use buildings such as Howelsen Place, The Olympian, The Victorian and Alpenglow offer luxury condominiums right in the heart of Downtown. If you’re looking for a single family residence, Old Town offers an eclectic mix of homes from historic to newly remodeled. Within walking distance you’ll find the new Soda Creek Elementary School, a new state-of-the-art Public Library and the Old Town Hot Springs Health and Recreation Center.

Typical Old  Town/Downtown residents are:

*  singles or couples without children living in the condominiums

*  families or long time empty nester residents living in the single family homes

*  a mix of full-time and part time residents with part time residents more prevalent in the condos

*  likely to be seen walking and biking to events conveniently located to where they live

 The Downtown/Old Town area has the Yampa River on one side and spreads to Strawberry Park on the other. Howelsen Hill rises just across the Yampa River and offers its own year round attractions and amenities. The Downtown/Old Town neighborhood is a unique blend of urban conveniences combined with traditional, small town, western culture – when was the last time you attended a high school homecoming parade through your downtown streets or a rodeo across the bridge?

Prices vary considerably in this neighborhood as real estate includes new high-end condos, mature single family residences as well as remodeled homes with all the latest upgrades. Here’s a snapshot of single family homes and condos in the Downtown/Old Town neighborhood. Prices range per square foot between $160.00 and $882.00 with an average of $343.00 per square foot for a home in the Downtown/Old Town neighborhood. Search the entire MLS or Steamboat foreclosures for price point comparisons.

—For more information on buying real estate or questions regarding Steamboat Springs real estate or renting a home in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, feel free to call Charlie at 970-846-6435 or write me an email at: charlie@steamboatsmyhome.com.

Thanks,

Charlie

With an ideal location between the ski mountain and downtown Steamboat Springs, the Fish Creek Falls neighborhood is a popular place to call home. As you drive farther up Fish Creek Falls Road the views get better and better with Emerald Mountain, Howelsen Hill, Sleeping Giant, the Flat Tops, south valley and of course, the Steamboat ski mountain all visible at various points along the way.

Best known for the Fish Creek Falls, a 283 foot waterfall that is booming during the spring melt-off, you’ll also find many hiking and biking trails around Fish Creek Falls (and yes, hike up beyond the first waterfall and there’s a second), and Spring Creek Trail which is a common “commuter” trail into downtown Steamboat Springs for residents of the Fish Creek Falls neighborhood.

Typical Fish Creek Falls’ residents are:

*  a family

*  living and working full time in Steamboat Springs

*  owners with about a half acre of property for children and dogs to play

 The Fish Creek Falls neighborhood is adjacent to The Sanctuary neighborhood and Rollingstone Golf Club, and it overlooks Rita Valentine Park where you’ll likely see residents walking their dogs. One of the newest developments in the Fish Creek Falls neighborhood, Boulder Ridge, boasts views of the Yampa Valley hard to find anywhere else.

Prices vary greatly in this neighborhood as real estate includes condos, town homes, mature single family residences as well as new luxury homes. Click here for a snapshot of single family homes and town homes in the Fish Creek Falls neighborhood. Typically the price range per square foot falls between $150.00 and $350.00 with an average of $264.00 per square foot for a single family home in the Fish Creek Falls neighborhood. If you want to search the entire MLS click here and for Steamboat foreclosures click here.

—For more information on buying real estate or questions regarding Steamboat Springs real estate or renting a home in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, feel free to call Charlie at 970-846-6435 or write me an email at: charlie@steamboatsmyhome.com.
Thanks,
Charlie

*  The Green River, the largest tributary of the Colorado River, flows into and provides a large supply of water to the Flaming Gorge Reservoir as well as the areas it winds through including Moffat County. Eventually it joins the Yampa River in the Dinosaur National Monument area. As we locals know, the Yampa River runs right through Steamboat so hold that thought.

*  Front Range energy development projects using hydroelectric power are in need of large amounts of water…and the Regional Water Supply Project supports capturing 81 billion gallons of water annually out of the Flaming Gorge Reservoir and transferring it to Colorado’s Front Range for use in as many as 5 hydroelectric power projects. The 81 billion gallons equates to about 25% of the Green River’s annual flow.

Stick with me because this is about to hit home for Steamboat Springs and its Yampa River.

 *  The 1922 Colorado River Compact mandates that Colorado, Utah, Wyoming and New Mexico have to deliver 7.5 million acre feet of water annually to California, Nevada and Arizona. The Green River plays a major role in fulfilling this obligation.

*  Where would California, Nevada and Arizona “find” the water they’ve been promised if the Green River water supply is being diverted to the Front Range?  Steamboat Springs’ Yampa River along with 3 or four other rivers in the region.

*  Why is this an even bigger deal than it first appears? Our Yampa Valley region is seeing an influx of investors looking for oil. The beginnings of an oil well boom are well under way here and guess what? Without getting technical on the oil well extraction process, let’s just say that most of the techniques used require huge amounts of water…what might become known as “precious” water.

So at an economic time when oil well land investors are key to the continued growth and new jobs in our Yampa Valley region, the water supply they will absolutely, positively require is in jeopardy of being piped to California, Nevada and Arizona while the water those states used to get is piped to the Colorado Front Range to support their hydroelectric project development needs. And oh by the way…we need ample water reserves for our personal use here in Steamboat Springs and the Yampa Valley – we won’t have record snow and rain fall every year…or perhaps now we should start welcoming that unpleasant mud season weather.

 —For more information on buying real estate or questions regarding Steamboat Springs real estate or renting a home in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, feel free to call Charlie at 970-846-6435 or write me an email at: charlie@steamboatsmyhome.com.

Thanks,

Charlie

Leif Hovelsen loved coming back to Steamboat Springs, CO to reconnect with the community where his father, Carl Howelsen, established the area’s first Winter Carnival in 1914 and taught locals how to ski jump on what is now known as Howelsen Hill…where Olympic Ski Jumping trials are held and many Olympians and Olympic hopefuls come to train.

In February 2009, at age 85, Leif came to Steamboat Springs for the celebration of the unveiling of a life sized bronze statue of his father at the entrance of Howelsen Place, one of Steamboat Springs’ premier new downtown mixed use buildings. That same winter he served as Grand Marshal in the Winter Carnival parade honoring the winter event his father had started 95 years earlier.  And in 2010 he celebrated the medals won by the USA Olympic Nordic combined skiers who lived and trained in Steamboat Springs and were all contemporaries of the ski movement established by Carl Howelsen in northwest Colorado back in the early 1900’s.

Leif Hovelsen was diagnosed with advanced stage leukemia 6 weeks ago. In his final days he received letters, calls and visits from friends around the world. Although best known around Steamboat Springs as being Carl Howelsen’s son, he was much more than that. Leif survived Nazi prison camp after being caught as a teenager smuggling radio parts to the Nazi resistance. Later in life he worked for an organization called Moral Re-Armament that encouraged cooperation among the nations of the world, and later wrote a book on the subject. Leif Hovelsen’s visits to Steamboat Springs will be missed, and it’s wonderful to know that our community provided him with such a tribute to his father and his past.

—For more information on buying real estate or questions regarding Steamboat Springs real estate or renting a home in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, feel free to call Charlie at 970-846-6435 or write me an email at: charlie@steamboatsmyhome.com.

Thanks,

Charlie

It’s  always nice when hard work and earning your way up the ranks pays off, and that’s exactly what happened when Steamboat Springs’ Bob Milne was appointed President of Wyndham Vacation Rentals North America. Working his way up the property management ranks and eventually becoming the owner of Steamboat Springs’ The Resort Co., Bob will bring deep and wide experience to his new role.

Wyndham Vacations acquired Milne’s former company, The Resort Co., in August 2011 and also Steamboat Springs’ ResortQuest in 2010. Wyndham Vacation Rentals is part of a network of thousands of global hotel properties. Milne will be relocating to Parsippany, NJ to take on his new responsibilities of growing Wyndham’s North American rental business. While leaving Steamboat Springs will be hard, ResortQuest, Steamboat Resorts and Milne’s former company, The Resort Co., are all under Bob’s new Wyndham Rental portfolio, so he’ll always have a room waiting for him…with all of Steamboat Springs’ amenities at his beck and call. Something tells me Bob will keep a storage locker here filled with skis, bikes, camping and hockey gear as I’m sure the lure of the Yampa Valley will bring him back as much as possible to combine business with pleasure.

—For more information on buying real estate or questions regarding Steamboat Springs real estate or renting a home in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, feel free to call Charlie at 970-846-6435 or write me an email at: charlie@steamboatsmyhome.com.

Thanks,

Charlie

Real estate agents ask clients a lot of questions. The more questions we ask, the better we can hone in on what clients want and how we can make that happen.  One specific question we should all be asking actually has nothing to do with real estate but is sure to make our clients’ lives easier and elevate (hopefully) our level of service.

So what is this key question?  “WHAT IS YOUR PREFERRED METHOD OF COMMUNICATION?”

What you say, when you say it, and the method in which you communicate are all important.  Knowing how our clients want to communicate can be incredibly helpful.

In today’s high-tech world, there are a lot more options in which to communicate than there were 10 – 20 years ago. Everyone has their personal preference and preferences should be acknowledge and respected.  Some people love email, while others would rather text. There are also many folks that still prefer speaking by phone.   And still other clients (although fewer and fewer) prefer face to face meetings.

With all these communication options, I feel  it’s important to find out which method(s) are prefer by each client and communicate accordingly. I now keep notes in my files and if a client prefers texting, I text, if it’s email then I email…you get it – client preferences rule. Better communication leads to faster and more accurate results, and that helps everyone involved in the real estate transaction.

—For more information on buying real estate or questions regarding Steamboat Springs real estate or renting a home in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, feel free to call Charlie at 970-846-6435 or write me an email at: charlie@steamboatsmyhome.com.

Thanks,

Charlie

The 3^rd annual OktoberWest festivities kick off Friday, September 16^th in Steamboat Springs, CO. There is truly something for everyone…and it’s the last weekend the Gondola is open until the ski mountain opens in November…next time up, there will be snow on the ground and skis in the rack!

So what is OktoberWest Steamboat Springs style? Here’s a sampling of the weekend’s events:

Friday, September 16^th – Steamboat Springs Downtown Area

* 5:30pm Pedaling Posse Parade – get on your cruiser bike and dress in your favorite movie character costume and pedal through historic downtown Steamboat Springs

* 6:00pm  Suds and Grub  – beer tasting and food specials at some of the most popular eating places in town: Double Z BBQ, The Boathouse, Cottonwood Grill, Rio Grande, Sweetwater Grill and Ghost Ranch Saloon

OktoberWest

Saturday, September 17^th – Steamboat Ski Area

* 6:00am Run Rabbit Run  - Ultra marathon 50-mile run along the Continental Divide

* 10:00am – 4:00pm – Gondola opens and 50% off Coca-Cola Adventure Zone Activities at the ski mountain base

* 2:00pm – 6:00pm – OktoberWest Festival with Beer Garden, Lamb Cook-off, Pie Eating Contest and 2 Free concerts

Sunday, September 18^th – Steamboat Ski Area

* 9:30am – 4:00pm Gondola open – final day until Thanksgiving week!

* 10:00am – 4:00pm – Coca-Cola Adventure Zone festivities at the ski mountain base, Bloody Mary Bar and OktoberWest luncheon buffet at the top of the Gondola

Enjoy a perfect fall weekend in beautiful Steamboat Springs with activities for the whole family! Bring your bikes and hiking shoes and hike or bike the many trails in and around Steamboat Springs between OktoberWest events. We hope to see you here…and make plans to come back skiing in a few months too!

—For more information on buying real estate or questions regarding Steamboat Springs real estate or renting a home in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, feel free to call Charlie at 970-846-6435 or write me an email at: charlie@steamboatsmyhome.com.

Thanks,

Charlie

Have you considered a ski vacation in Steamboat Springs, Colorado where you stay in a local resident’s home while they take their own vacation and stay in your home? Might just be an attractive idea for a Steamboat Springs resident especially if your home is somewhere warm and balmy with sand and waves not far away…Honolulu, Hawaii or Key Largo, Florida…anyone want to trade? Doesn’t have to be US only residences either – plenty of folks from London, Great Britain to Sidney, Australia frequent Steamboat Springs, CO and might be interested in a home swap to make their stay more home-like and cut down on lodging and restaurant costs.

The more popular a destination you live in, the more options you have available for home swapping. Lucky for Steamboat Springs, CO residents, our ski mountain is known as Ski Town USA and boasts champagne powder from December through early April. So where to start? The easiest starting points are the agencies who specialize in home swaps such as:

* HomeExchange.com which boasts over 40,000 members and costs $120/year.

* HomeForExchange.com has about 13,600 members and costs $59/year.

* Homelink International is approximately 13,000 members strong and costs $119/year.

Once you find an agency to join, you simply follow their instructions. You know how important photos & videos are in Real Estate buying and selling? Well, they are just as important in home swapping. As a Real Estate agent, I find myself being asked a lot about how to take great photos and videos so Steamboat Springs’ friends looking to find the perfect home swap can ensure their home looks like it’ll fulfill vacation dreams for someone else.

Here’s a sample of what’s available for Steamboat Springs, CO vacation swaps on HomeExchange.com. Don’t forget to plan early – it goes without saying that the week between Christmas and New Year’s and President’s Day week are high demand weeks at popular destinations like Steamboat Springs, CO.

Being a real estate agent in a ski destination town like Steamboat Springs, CO I advise buyers to keep home swapping in mind when they’re looking at houses…what out-of-town visitor wouldn’t want a slope-side condo at Edgemont or a fantastic home in the Sanctuary in Steamboat Springs to call home-base for a week or two?

—For more information on buying real estate or questions regarding Steamboat Springs real estate or renting a home in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, feel free to call Charlie at 970-846-6435 or write me an email at: charlie@steamboatsmyhome.com.

Thanks,

Charlie

I’m a father of an 8 year old, so I’ve been asked many “why’s” for the past 6 years and while for the most part I patiently answer each “why” question, every once in a while it’s one too many “whys” and I just want the questions to stop. Sometimes if you sit back and listen, observe and think about things, the dots connect themselves…hard to expect from an 8 year old, but hopefully not a 48 year old!

If you were in Steamboat Springs, Colorado this past spring, you had a lot of thinking time because you certainly weren’t enjoying the great outdoors that was still covered by snow and being pounded by more snow, sleet and rain through early June. The epic ski season was followed by a gloomy spring that never seemed very spring-like.

So when I saw the article in The Denver Post business section today with the headline: Hitch on high and the subtitle: Sales of mountain-resort homes in July lowest in year, I have to admit I did the eye-roll thing.  First of all these numbers have been out for weeks and with August numbers due out in another week or so, this story is old, and the new August story is much likely to get better. But my biggest question is “Why did they write this article?” when not only do we know “why” July was bad (and yes, it was bad in Steamboat Springs too) but they also told us in the article “why” July was bad. C’mon media folks don’t you have enough negative things to focus on without highlighting one down month in an otherwise pretty good year so far? 

OK, so “why” then was July such a bummer month throughout the Colorado mountain communities, Steamboat Springs included? Of course you can point to difficult financing, high unemployment, an unstable stock market which all fostered low buyer confidence. But think about it…July closings stem from May offers and guess what, with the heaviest snowfall ever in many mountain towns during the winter (Steamboat Springs had well over 400 inches), mountain communities still had a 300” snow-pack, roaring rivers and streams from the beginning of the melt off (read this as: no fishing), and cold, rainy, mud-inducing weather.

Epic Steamboat Snowfall

No one in their right mind planned a vacation combined with a house hunting trip to the Colorado mountains in May. Steamboat Springs’ clear, blue skies were no where to be found. One look online at the weather and anyone with sense headed for the beach or the desert. Do you know how many Steamboat Springs, CO residents went to Moab multiple times this past April/May? Let me assure you, while the mountain biking is great there, so were the sun and warm temperatures!

So let me conclude “why” July was so bad in the Colorado mountain communities: with most folks heading for sun, sand and warm weather in May, very few home buyers braved the elements to put offers on homes still snow covered for the most part. My own Steamboat Springs fell victim to the fair weather buyer syndrome too. But despite the same economic, employment and financing issues that have plagued everyone for months now, July and August with their sunshine, warm temps and crystal blue skies brought home buyers back to Steamboat Springs and other Colorado mountain communities. As a result, Steamboat’s pending sales numbers were very optimistic in July & August. Year to date sales are still looking positive over last year, so I for one am heading into fall with a glass half full real estate market outlook.

Summer in Steamboat

—For more information on buying real estate or questions regarding Steamboat Springs real estate or renting a home in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, feel free to call Charlie at 970-846-6435 or write me an email at: charlie@steamboatsmyhome.com.

Thanks,

Charlie

As we approach the 10^th anniversary of 9/11 this weekend, we’ll remember how citizens of New York City and our entire nation pulled together to sort through the ashes where the Twin Towers once stood and begin the process of restoring normalcy – albeit an entirely new norm for our country. At this time it’s worth noting that since September 2001, Realtors have provided more than $22 million dollars in disaster relief to victims. This is in addition to the countless hours Realtors put in volunteering at disaster sites in ways too numerous to count. What has been calculated are the following grants and donations over the past 10 years that have helped countless victims get back on their feet. As reported in the September issue of REALTOR Magazine, the real estate industry gives, and gives generously in times of crisis.

* 2001: $8.5 million in assistance to 1,333 families affected by the 9/11 attacks

* 2002-2003: $123,000 in total contributed toward providing relief for Rhode Island fire, Southern Maryland tornado and wildfires in Arizona and California

* 2004-2005: $6.9 million for hurricanes Charley/Katrina/Rita/Wilma who hit Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas, tornado in Illinois and Tsunami relief through Habitat for Humanity

* 2006-2007: $4.7 million for flooding in Texas, tornado’s in Illinois, Kansas and Tennessee, wildfires in California and hurricanes Katrina/Rita/Wilma that ravaged Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas

* 2008-2009: $692,000 for floods in Iowa and Nevada, hurricanes Gustav & Ike who hit Louisiana and Texas and the tornado that ripped through Colorado

* 2010-2011: $1.3 million for earthquake/tsunami relief in Haiti & Japan, floods in Minnesota, Mississippi, North Dakota, Rhode Island and Tennessee, wildfires in Colorado and tornado’s in Alabama, Massachusetts & Missouri

Recently hurricane Irene caused immense damage along the east coast, so we can safely assume that giving and volunteering continues from Realtors around the country. In the blink of an eye anyone’s world can change, and knowing there are people willing to reach out at a moment’s notice with donations of time and/or money is reassuring. So as we reflect on the tragedy of 9/11 this weekend, let’s not forget how it reminded us of how strong a nation the United States is, and how we step up to help those in need each and every time there’s a crisis or a disaster at hand.

I’m proud to be a member of the National Association of Realtors: a caring entity in this business of real estate.

—For more information on buying real estate or questions regarding Steamboat Springs real estate or renting a home in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, feel free to call Charlie at 970-846-6435 or write me an email at: charlie@steamboatsmyhome.com.

Thanks,

Charlie

For a small town Steamboat Springs, Colorado has more than its fair share of local businesses playing in the international arena – SmartWool, Big Agnes and Honey Stinger to name a few. Now there’s another local entrepreneur, Lisa Ciraldo, owner of Chocolate Soup, following her American Dream of getting her baked goods distributed nationally.

Opening Chocolate Soup Pastry Café on Mount Werner Circle at the base of Steamboat Springs’ ski area five years ago was only the start of Lisa’s dream. Distributing her products on a national scale was always Lisa’s biggest goal. Realization of that dream is well on its way to happening as Chocolate Soup is selling its milk chocolate almond and dark chocolate pistachio macaroons and its Bella Luna graham crackers at Whole Foods Market stores in their Rocky Mountain region as of last week.

In true Steamboat Springs fashion, Lisa looked no further than her Steamboat Springs’ Chocolate Soup customer base for the partnership talent she needed to help her with product development and brand launch. Mary Ann Gunn was a loyal customer with marketing, merchandising and product development expertise and lucky for Lisa, a desire to jump in and help. Combining their knowledge and skills, Lisa and Mary Ann developed a well rounded business plan for expanding Lisa’s retail café business into a national wholesale business.

And they are well on their way with about 50 mom and pop retail stores to start and most recently capturing the Whole Foods Market Rocky Mountain region after courting the high end specialty grocery store chain for more than a year. With 4 Whole Foods Market stores plus the 50 mom and pop stores ordering macaroons and Bella Luna graham crackers, Lisa and Mary Ann are tapped out production capacity wise at their Chocolate Soup home base on Mount Werner Circle.

With a secretly delicious macaroon recipe and dreams of having to expand operations to meet additional orders for their delicious treats, Lisa and Mary Ann are just beginning to tap into America’s sweet tooth. And what has been a scrumptious treat reserved for visitors to the two Steamboat Springs’ Chocolate Soup locations is about to be enjoyed by those who have never been fortunate enough to visit Lisa’s Steamboat Springs’ Chocolate Soup pastry cafés personally. Sounds like a win-win to me…and chalk up another success story for the entrepreneurial spirit that runs deep in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.

—For more information on buying real estate or questions regarding Steamboat Springs real estate or renting a home in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, feel free to call Charlie at 970-846-6435 or write me an email at: charlie@steamboatsmyhome.com.

Thanks,

Charlie

When you live in a town of less than 10,000 permanent residents you definitely have a couple of stores and restaurants that are your “go-to” places…you know those places that you can always count on for the perfect stocking stuffer or the grilled vegetable salad when you’re trying to be somewhat healthy.

Two of those local Steamboat Springs, Colorado hangouts are about to undergo big changes – downtown Lincoln Avenue staple All That Jazz is up for sale and Tugboat Grill & Pub up near the ski mountain base has been sold to a new owner. All That Jazz, an iconic music store that sells much more than music has been in business since original and current owner, Joe Kboudi, opened its doors in 1977. Now in his late 60’s, Joe is ready to move on and have more time for other hobbies…not that he won’t entertain an offer to manage the store if a new owner needs help.

From the onset, All That Jazz sold vinyl records, cassette tapes, greeting cards and gifts…all of which he currently sells even if the cassette tapes have morphed into CD’s. We can only hope that someone sees the value in buying the iconic store and keeping the tradition going. I wish Joe a speedy sale, and as a real estate agent, I’ll be on the lookout for a buyer who will carry the tradition of All That Jazz into the future.

Then there’s Tugboat Grill & Pub who escaped the 2008 demolition when the wrecking ball took down a good portion of the shops and restaurants on the north side of Ski Time Square to make room for a large redevelopment project since tabled in the economic downturn. Longtime, but not original owners, Hank Edwards and Larry Lamb, have sold the almost 4 decade old establishment to Steamboat resident, Jim Beatty. Beatty better not mess with the bar and grill also known for live music, dancing and as a museum of local sports memorabilia. But hey, Beatty already scored points by promising to add Guinness on tap in the near future. This might just be OK after all.

 —For more information on real estate in Colorado or questions regarding Steamboat Springs real estate in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, feel free to call me at 970-846-6435 or write me an email at: charlie@steamboatsmyhome.com.Regards,

Charlie

Sure you’ve seen training facilities in warehouses before, and this one is no different – except it’s in Steamboat Springs where every 5^th person seems to be a current or former Olympian or USA (You Fill in the Team Name) Team member. It’s also the place where senior citizens are more fit and active than most 30 year olds in other parts of the country. So when you see the name “Manic Training” you know it’s not going to be a hop on the treadmill with your magazine and iPod kind of place. Nah…it’s pretty Spartan and that’s part of the allure!

As founder and chief motivator, Graham “Bushy” Muir likes to say, “Manic is no frills, no egos and no mirrors.” Seriously, everyone does leave their egos at the door and you’ll find housewives training next to the moguls silver medalist. What exactly do you sign up for? Old school equipment, uncomplicated routines, lots of high intensity variety and way more than enough repetition, combined with new age training philosophy. Still have those above the calf tube socks? Well, a lot of the same equipment was being used at the same time you were wearing those fashion statements back in the day!

What do you do if you really aren’t in Manic shape? Well, all summer long there has been a well kept secret at Manic Training – it’s called Manic Lite by some and Mini Manic by others. So what is it exactly? It’s a 45 minute class (instead of the usual hour) and it’s tempered a bit with lighter weights, less reps and fewer rotations. Don’t kid yourself though, the participants are just as driven, just as “manic” and span just as many ages. This under the radar class is rumored to be going mainstream and I predict it will be as popular as its more Maniacal counterpart.

Wanna try it out? The first week is free and then there are a la carte payment options. No contracts at Manic because quite honestly, they only want people there who want to be there, and make the most out of every minute. Your contract is with yourself and your commitment to long term fitness. So grab some water, make sure you haven’t eaten in at least an hour and we’ll be waiting.

 —For more information on real estate in Colorado or questions regarding Steamboat Springs real estate in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, feel free to call me at 970-846-6435 or write me an email at: charlie@steamboatsmyhome.com.Regards,

Charlie

I recently read a great book titled Start With Why by Simon Sinek, and it clearly outlined the importance of Steve Jobs’ leadership in establishing not only Apple’s dominance in product innovation that has almost single-handedly pushed every needle possible in technology since the 1980’s, but also in establishing a purpose, a stated vision for Apple, their “Why”,  that created brand loyalty among millions who can’t even at times explain “why” they had to have a Mac or “why” they’ll stick with an iPhone no matter what else is available.

I know “why” I use an iMac for my real estate business here in Steamboat Springs, CO – because it allows creativity to be taken to a whole new level at my personal computer.  Editing on Final Cut Pro for all of these videos and also editing the photographs for all my listings.

Apple inspired technology has transformed the way we all do business in real estate, how we keep in touch with clients, friends, family and where we do business. How many of you have done a listing presentation on the fly with your iPad without missing a beat? Any company with a strong “why” has a leader committed to fueling that “why” and keeping it top-of-mind day in and day out. Steve Jobs was that guy. Because of the culture he created within Apple, and the marketing campaigns that let us all “in on” how irreverent, cutting edge and hip Apple is – remember the “I’m a Mac and I’m a PC” TV commercials – Apple has a loyal customer base of millions. How do those millions break out, well here’s a snapshot:

* 275M plus iPods sold since 2001

* 100M+ iPhones sold since 2007

* 25M+ iPads sold since 2009

* 30 Billion+ downloads from Apple’s iTunes Store since 2003

Apple’s technology inspired its competitors to innovate to remain competitive, which allows every one of us to conduct business in minutes rather than days…remember waiting for an overnight FedEx with the contract it contained?  We are all better business people, better real estate agents because a whole lot of people decided to jump on the Apple bandwagon and embrace the technology it has to offer due in part (perhaps without even knowing it) because those people wanted to be part of the Apple mystique. Now that the man who created that mystique, that hip and cool “why” Apple exists, has resigned and we can only hope that the “why” and the vision is maintained.

 The ray of hope is that Steve Jobs plans to continue being involved in the business as Apple’s chairman. Why should we all hope that this role affords him an ongoing voice in Apple’s direction? Well, the reality is that Apple has created hundreds of thousands of jobs and forced its competitors to do the same in order to keep up. In this time of economic uncertainty, we need industry leaders to remain innovative, to invest in research and development, and yes, to give us that air of confidence that the next technological breakthrough is just around the corner and the cool new iProduct is going to bring it to us.

As for Steamboat Springs, CO – well we may not have an Apple Store, but we have the Apple certified Mac Ranch where we can buy our Apple products and also get repairs done on those unfortunate days when we wake up ready to go, but our iMac doesn’t.

 —For more information on real estate in Colorado or questions regarding Steamboat Springs real estate in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, feel free to call me at 970-846-6435 or write me an email at: charlie@steamboatsmyhome.com.Regards,

Charlie

While Steamboat Springs’ residents anxiously await the arrival of the USA Pro Cycling Challenge tomorrow, the cyclists had some anxiety of their own yesterday. First they had to ride over 130 miles, and cross two 12,000+ foot passes  – Cottonwood and Independence.  You’d think getting to the top of the second pass, Independence Pass, would be reason to celebrate, but it was raining and cold, and 15 miles of nerve-racking descent down steep terrain peppered with plenty of curves stood in the way of the thrill of conquering the uphill climb.

Even Colorado natives drive down Independence Pass cautiously in the rain – must’ve been a real treat on a bike.  Some people will do anything to get to Aspen. George Hincapie of the BMC Racing team won this stage 2 race and stands second overall. Tejay Van Garderen finished second, but jumped into the overall lead and wears the yellow jersey today.  Van Garderen, at just 23, is one of the top American hopefuls, and he trains in both Aspen and Lucca, Italy…something tells me he knew exactly how to handle Independence Pass rain or no rain.

Today’s stage 3 is a 10 mile time trial from Vail Village up Vail Pass. These guys know how to have fun huh? After the time trial up Vail Pass, there isn’t another huge mountain stage to separate the riders, meaning those who shook off nerves and went for it on yesterday’s steep descents gained ground that could very well determine the top three in Denver on Sunday.

After today, the riders have what they’ll consider an easy 82.7 mile ride from Avon, CO to Steamboat Springs, CO on Friday. They’ll start at 7,402 ft. elevation and end at 6,642 ft. in Steamboat Springs, CO. The highest ascent along the way will come at just before mile 40 when they’ll hit 8,564 ft. Piece of cake for these guys.

And saying Steamboat Springs is ready for them to arrive here tomorrow around 3:30 is like saying the Detroit Lions are ready for a winning season…we are ready! Tune in tomorrow for more updates and great photos as the riders head into Ski Town USA…or more appropriately, Bike Town USA where they’ll be greeted by over 30,000 spectators. You can bet the second home owners are here and the hotels are full! This is a big deal and we know it!

 —For more information on real estate in Colorado or questions regarding Steamboat Springs real estate in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, feel free to call me at 970-846-6435 or write me an email at: charlie@steamboatsmyhome.com.Regards,

Charlie

I just read a short article about a unique property video technique being used in LA – the latest trends always seem to  start on the east and west coasts don’t they? This video technique uses footage from mini helicopter flights operated by an aerial video company, HeliMalibu. Honestly, this first sounded like a Hollywood special effects company to me. Then the article went on to say that “the cost to create the aerial video isn’t cheap, prices start at $500.” In many instances real estate Agents pay well over $500 for a photographer to take property photos & videos, so I was wondering how in fact it could be so inexpensive to have a manned helicopter fly over a property and take an aerial video. Videos are featured on SteamboatsMyHom.com, and I’d love to add some variety with aerial videos as well.

After going to HeliMalibu’s website, I found out that lo and behold, it is Hollywood – these videos are shot by an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). 

HeliMalibu produces high quality aerial imagery by designing camera mounts tailored to specific client requirements that are then used on their remote controlled helicopter that can fly for up to 20 minutes on one battery charge depending camera weight. There are no humans on the helicopters…the entire flight is done by remote commands.

Wow…so the “copters” are unmanned and small and as such are safe and cost effective…they are also fairly quiet so as not to disturb the residents in the neighborhood they are videoing. That’s a good thing because I had visions of those big helicopters filled with paparazzi you see on TV trying to capture video footage of the latest celebrity wedding…something tells me it won’t be long until HeliMalibu will be tailoring some camera mounts for People  Magazine.

So now when we have a house in a deep canyon, or a ranch that’s so expansive we have no way of really capturing its breadth any other way than on Google Earth, we have an unmanned helicopter that can take a video for us. While I’m sure many aerial video projects are a lot more expensive than $500, it’s an incredibly unique alternative to consider for special listings in hard to reach/hard to capture from the ground locations.  And since the only options for this sort of videoing here in Steamboat Springs would be the hot air balloon ride or the Life Flight hospital helicopter (which obviously aren’t viable options), we now know there’s a company that can help us out in LA. And who wouldn’t want a break from the smog in LA to come to the clear mountain air in Steamboat Springs, CO to do a little Rocky Mountain aerial videoing with a UAV?

The bar just keeps going higher, and while aerial videoing isn’t appropriate for many houses, as it becomes the new normal in CA, it’ll make its way to us. Hopefully as we capture the beauty of our property listings from above, we can at the same time bring to life the mountainous terrain in Northwest Colorado and the unparalleled beauty of the mountains surrounding Steamboat Springs, Colorado.

The mountain living lifestyle conjures up images of champagne powder, snow-capped trees and skiing 100+ days a season. But one of the best kept secrets of Northwest Colorado is its appreciation of its culture—and the way it is celebrated.  Anyone who has been to Steamboat Springs, CO in the summertime knows that while skiing may bring you here the first time, the summer activities  and gorgeous weather will convince you to stay year-round. 

Known as a world-class ski resort,  our western heritage may be a little lost under 400+ inches of snow we get in the winter, but rest assured,  traditional working  ranches, world class rodeos and a State Fair that emphasizes our agricultural and ranching heritage are in full swing in the summertime.

Routt County State Fair

And if the western hospitality alone won’t lure you here, then our Art in the Park and All Arts Festival as well as Art on the Mountain are sure to offer something for every family member. If music is your passion, there are free concerts throughout the summer at the base of Howelsen Hill as well as The Strings performances that rival any big city production. Steamboat Springs, Colorado and the surrounding Yampa Valley  offer special events all summer long – the options are plentiful, and it’s best to plan ahead for a visit that’ll coincide with what you most enjoy.

Of course any time you come from mid June through mid September you’ll find hiking and biking trails for all fitness levels…and the fly fishing is spectacular on the Yampa and Elk Rivers as well. Better watch the water levels though as this summer many water related activities were delayed 3-5 weeks due to the high water run off from our record breaking winter snowfall.

Fly Fishing on the Yampa

Our Lincoln Avenue, Old Town Steamboat Springs area is home to a variety of retail shops, dining options for every taste bud, art galleries, bars and live music establishments. If you’re here on the first Friday of any month in the year, definitely pencil in the First Friday Artwalk downtown. Full time residents  as well as guests enjoy local art along with an assortment of drinks and appetizers at participating establishments. 

Steamboat Art Company

Whether you’re a guest in town with dreams of owning a home here someday,  a second home owner who escapes to Steamboat whenever you can or a local resident lucky enough to live this lifestyle 365 days a year…there’s always plenty to do in Steamboat Springs in every season. While you might be first  introduced to Steamboat Springs after you click in to your skis, you’ll want to come back in the summer to enjoy the clear sunny days and comfortably cool star-filled nights. So since there’s still some summer weather left before the leaves start to change and eyes turn to the mountain each morning to see “if” the first layer of snow has fallen…make some plans to come to Steamboat Springs and enjoy the fantastic warm weather, summer season activities and events we offer.

—For more information on real estate in Colorado or questions regarding Steamboat Springs real estate in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, feel free to call me at 970-846-6435 or write me an email at: charlie@steamboatsmyhome.com.

 Regards,

Charlie

Land Title Guarantee Company  in Steamboat Springs, CO just released a summary of 2010 condo sales in Steamboat Springs which brought to light some interesting facts such as exactly 25 states were represented in closings on condos in Steamboat Springs in 2010. States with the highest number (not including Colorado) of condo purchasers in Steamboat Springs were:

*Texas (19)

*Illinois (10)

*Florida (5) and Wisconsin (4)

There were also three foreign countries represented for a total of 5 sales: Australia (2), Canada (2) and England (1). And in case you’re wondering, of the 159 total 2010 condo sales in Steamboat Springs, 81 (just over half) of the buyers were from Colorado – seems those who live in Colorado like the idea of owning a second home in a world-class resort they can drive to for champagne powder in the winter and hiking, biking and relaxing in the summer.

Sales prices ranged from a high of $2,594,000 for a 1,882 sq. ft. Edgemont condominium a lucky family from New Jersey will be escaping the east coast icy winters to enjoy slope-side.

The lowest price was $80,000 for a 584 sq. ft.  Walton Village condominium a local Steamboat Springs resident invested in for what will likely provide rental income. Fifteen units sold for over $1,000,000 and their total sales volume comprised 26.5% of the total $73,270,406 condo sales in 2010.

As for where in Steamboat Springs the condos purchased in 2010 were located, over 90% were in the mountain area for easy access to the slopes. Eight of the condos purchased were in the downtown area which equates to a 5% geographic share for downtown locations. Three downtown residences split the 8 sales almost evenly with the Olympian garnering 3 sales, Howelsen Place 3 sales and The Victoria had 2 sales. A 2038 sq. ft. Olympian condo had the highest downtown location price tag at $1,223,703. Lucky Kansas residents will enjoy views of Howelsen Hill as well as the Yampa River from their new Olympian deck. With renewed interest in the urban living trend, and supply still available in the new downtown developments, Old Town Steamboat Springs should see equal or greater sales numbers by the end of 2011.

So what does this all mean? It certainly means that Steamboat Springs is a second home and vacation destination for half the states in the USA – which means the other half either hasn’t found us yet, or just hasn’t decided to become second home owners. It’s also worth noting that states with direct access to the Yampa Valley Regional Airport are the biggest investors in Steamboat Springs – Texas and Illinois, and the biggest condo purchase last year was made by a New Jersey family who can fly direct out of Newark, NJ. So maintaining (or improving) the air service to YVRA is critical to keeping our market robust. And with prices ranging from $80,000 to over $2 million, there’s a condo for every wallet out there.

As a realtor here in Steamboat Springs, it’s encouraging to see a wide price range available as well as a mix of new and mature condo residences for sale. And while the mountain area will always be in demand, I predict as the Old Town area continues to add more retail stores and restaurants, and the downtown developments continue to add more amenities (i.e. club memberships on the mountain), we’ll see more “urban” residents who will take advantage of being able to walk to a variety of attractions within a 12 block radius.

—For more information on real estate in Colorado or questions regarding Steamboat Springs real estate  in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, feel free to call me at 970-846-6435 or write me an email at: charlie@steamboatsmyhome.com.

Regards,

Charlie

Sandy Evans Hall lead the Steamboat Springs Chamber of Commerce for 25 years before taking a similar job near Lake Tahoe this summer. So the search for a new Chamber leader in this time of economic duress truly took on a sense of urgency and required a dedication to doing the utmost due-diligence to find the right person to lead our community into another winter where we’ll be competing with numerous ski resorts for what looks to be another season that will suffer from the effects of an economic slump. To say this new hire will be expected to hit the ground running would be an understatement.

It seems we found the perfect person for Steamboat Springs Chamber CEO  job in Thomas Kern, an experienced community leader and longtime Steamboat Springs’ visitor who already has a group of friends awaiting his arrival as a full-time resident. Highlights of the experience he brings with him include:

*  CEO of the Chamber of Commerce in Lawrence, Kansas - Rock, chalk  Jayhawk if you know what that means (and you do if you’re a Kansas fan!)

*  Chamber COO in Fairfax County, VA (just across the Potomac from our nation’s capital)

*  EVP and COO of the Greater Cincinnati (OH) Chamber

*  President of the National Cherry Festival in Traverse City, MI and County Commissioner in Grand Traverse County

Along with his great resume comes a reputation for being a consensus builder among various public and private groups, as well as having experience in existing business retention and new business recruiting. All these skills and perhaps more will be needed when he assumes his new role in September.

In Steamboat Springs’ tourism driven market, the need for marketing Steamboat Springs extends beyond tourism into attracting new business start-ups and location neutral professionals. We are a community as well as a world-class resort, so the needs our new Chamber CEO has to address are multifaceted. And of course Mr. Kern will also need to devote time, energy and resources to increasing Chamber membership beyond the resort and retail members who dominate the roster now. Full time residents are eager to embrace a community leader with skills to meet these needs, and second home, part-time residents might just spend more time here if Steamboat Springs, CO becomes a more business friendly community.

While there’s a lot to tackle, and the economy is not going to provide any assistance, it sure seems like we’ve chosen the right guy to come in and lead us to the new level we need to attain in order to attract the tourists, businesses and professionals our Ski Town USA® is so deserving of.

—For more information on real estate in Colorado or questions regarding Steamboat Springs real estate  in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, feel free to call me at 970-846-6435 or write me an email at: charlie@steamboatsmyhome.com.

Regards,

Charlie

Like many downtown areas, Old Town Steamboat Springs is the center of Steamboat’s character. Within walking distance to Lincoln Avenue and Yampa Street, living in Old Town makes it convenient to stroll down for morning coffee or browse at the public library, not to mention checking out one of 75 local restaurants and bars. My favorites might be Mambo for Italian around 5th and Lincoln and Ciao Gelato on Yampa Street & 7th. The Steaming Bean is my choice for coffee and treats. They are located on 7th and Lincoln.

As far as the homes go, Old Town Steamboat is an eclectic mix of great old and remodeled homes nestled under large deciduous trees that tower over many of the street. Most of the homes are on smaller lots thus it won’t take long before you’re having lemonade with your neighbor. But be aware when looking at real estate in Old Town, the age of some of the home you have to look out for material defects. Some of these homes have poor foundations, inadequate insulation, and systems needing updates.

As for homes and prices, one could by today a 2 plus bedroom single family home that’s 1,100 square feet on Merritt Street for $297,900. Or a wonderful old home on Soda Creek for $650,000 Lots of potential with this one. Tons of charm but needs updating. Or you can buy a newer home on a quiet street for
$1,150,000. This home on Spruce has a great floor plan and feel.

Most Old Town homes are early 20th century style with predominantly bungalow and craftsman style architecture. There are many local parks featuring grass lawns, creeks, and many walking trails. In addition, the newly constructed Soda Creek Elementary School which is right in the middle of Old Town making is very convenient for families with kids. Old Town is charming and delightful.

Travel times: 4 minutes to skiing. 1 minute to fishing. Biking out your door. And then there’s Howelsen Hill which is right in Old Town – so skiing is 1 minute away.

—For more on this topic or questions regarding real estate in Steamboat Springs, feel free to call Charlie at 970-846-6435 or write me an email at: charlie@steamboatsmyhome.com. I will answer your post or email promptly with candid and informed answers. Click here to view all properties in Steamboat Springs in “real time” — This is one of the few real estate sites showing all foreclosed and all short sale listings in real time and updated every few minutes.

 

Shane Anderson scored a couple of top-ten finishes in the season-ending World Cup races in Norway. PHOTOS COURTESY U.S. TELEMARK ASSOCIATION.

American telemark racers wrapped up their international season with some top-notch results at the World Cup telemark finals and world championships in Norway, with veteran Shane Anderson picking up a couple of ninth-place finishes against a field of the world’s best.

Anderson, who plans to retire from World Cup racing following this season, spent the winter in Europe living, training and racing along with team member Cory Snyder. Their goal was to compete in every World Cup race. Anderson said he will leave telemark racing with no regrets.

Following his top-ten finishes, Anderson said in his understated way, “Pretty good day.” His results throughout the season were consistently in the top 15 and he concluded the season in fourteenth place overall.

American skiers also did well in the Junior World Championships, also held in Norway. Sixteen year old Madi McKinstry of Steamboat Springs finished in third place in the Giant Slalom event and also brought home a bronze medal as the third place overall Junior World Champion.

“This is a terrific accomplishment and shows the dedication and training that Madi has given her sport”  said Russ Hobbs, President of the US Telemark Ski Association.  It has been fun to watch Madi’s development over the last several years and to see her reach this point.”

Other juniors competing were Zoë Taylor and Jeffrey Gay of Steamboat Springs and Cory Snyder of Franconia, New Hampshire. These teen racers also competed on the World Cup circuit with good results. Madi McKinstry consistently placed in the top 15 in the women’s field, with an 11th place as her top result in Norway.

Fifteen year old Zoë Taylor’s best finish was a 13th place in the ladies giant slalom at Hafjell which was also a fifth place in the junior division. Jeffrey Gay’s best finish was 18th in the men’s Giant Slalom in Hafjell, for was a seventh place in the Junior division.

Gay consistently placed in the top 30 in each of the 6 Norway races. Cory Snyder pushed his limits at every race of the World Cup circuit, with some spectacular finishes — and also some spectacular crashes. His approach paid off in several races, with a 10th place finish in the Giant Slalom at the World Championships in Rjukan and a 13th place finish in the men’s Giant Slalom at Hafjell, which was a 4th place finish in the Junior division.

At the other end of the age spectrum, Charlie Dresen returned to the US National Team at age 47,  two years  after taking several years off for work and family.  resen juggles responsibilities as a Realtor, husband, and father and as one of the telemark coaches in Steamboat Springs.  His top finish was a 16th in the Ccassic event at Hafjell.

Other veteran team members included Erika Walters of Steamboat Springs and Drew Hauser of Dillon, who both took time away from their university studies to compete in Norway. With little time for training, Walters’ finished in in the top 20 in her events, while Hauser’s placed in the top 45.

Relative newcomers to World Cup racing included Cole Schneider and Maggie Doherty of Whitefish, Montana, Tommy Gogolen, of Breckenridge, and Garrett Long of Riverside, Connecticut, and currently at the U.S. Naval Academy.  These racers all showed tremendous improvement over the course of the championship series. Gogolen finished 28th and Long in 38th in the sprint classic contest.

To Read More click here

By Summit Voice - SUMMIT COUNTY