Seller Credit or Price Reduction? A Better Conversation Before the Next OfferA buyer finds the right home, but the monthly payment is higher than they would like. The seller is willing to negotiate, so the conversation naturally turns to price.Before asking for a reduction, though, there is another question worth considering:Could the same seller contribution help the buyer more if it were used differently?A lower purchase price, closing-cost assistance, and a seller-funded mortgage buydown solve different problems. The best choice depends on what is actually holding the buyer back: the monthly payment, the cash needed to close, or the overall cost of financing.For Colorado buyers, sellers, and real estate agents, this is a conversation worth having before the offer or counteroffer is f... 09/28/2026

Conventional Loans Up to $845,000: More Options for Colorado Buyers and SellersGood news for homebuyers: we can now explore conventional financing up to $845,000 through select early loan-limit programs.That is $12,250 above the current $832,750 national baseline for a one-unit home. For buyers near that threshold, the additional financing room could make a difference in how we structure a purchase.And here is something worth remembering: a million-dollar home does not automatically require a jumbo mortgage. The purchase price matters, but so does the amount you put down.An Early Opportunity Ahead of the 2027 AnnouncementAs of September 23, 2026, these early financing options anticipate the upcoming 2027 conforming loan-limit update. They are not an officially announced increase from th... 09/23/2026

The Fed Raised Rates. Could That Help Mortgage Rates?Imagine a buyer seeing the headline “The Fed Raised Interest Rates” and immediately asking, “Should we put our home search on hold?”Before answering, it helps to separate the headline from what actually drives mortgage financing.On September 16, 2026, the Federal Reserve increased its federal funds target range by a quarter percentage point to 3.75%–4.00%, citing elevated inflation. That was a change to its short-term policy rate, not an instruction for lenders to increase every mortgage rate by the same amount. The important point is not simply that the Fed raised rates. It is how an action intended to control inflation could influence the mortgage market.The Fed Influences Mortgage Rates. It Does Not Set Them.The federal funds rate ... 09/20/2026

Congratulations to All — But How Did That Happen?First, congratulations to the happy seller and the excited buyer! 🎉But you might be wondering…How do you sell a property that was never on the MLS?It started with a phone call about something completely unrelated.Another agent called me to discuss a different matter. Just before hanging up, she said, in a very unenthusiastic tone, “I have to go list a house.”Something about the way she said it caught my attention, so I asked:Where is it? What’s wrong with it? Do you know what they’re asking?I was curious enough to take a look.I grabbed my shoes and car keys and drove over.Here's what makes this story interesting: the property wasn't on the MLS. There was no yard sign, no MLS description, no room measurements, and no professional photograp... 09/16/2026

Buying a Home? 6 Ways to Get a Lower House PaymentBefore you decide a home’s monthly payment is too high, let’s make sure we have looked at everything that goes into it.Everybody wants a lower mortgage rate. So do I. But when I help someone plan a home purchase, I do not want the conversation to stop at that one number.Your loan structure matters. So do the property taxes, homeowners insurance, mortgage insurance and HOA dues. Together, those costs help determine whether a home fits your monthly budget. The opportunity is to work on those expenses before you buy, while you still have decisions to make.Here are six areas I want homebuyers and their agents to review.1. Compare permanent and temporary buydownsA buydown deserves a place in the purchase conversation, but we need to distingui... 09/14/2026

I sent a referral for Seller Referral on 9/1 - out of 12 people, only 3 responded with answers to a questionaire that the seller was asking. Only those 3 who answered were considered. Here is my text to everyone who responded:The Referral for Colorado Springs, Colorado (zip code 80916) that was posted on 9/1  for $395,000  has been taken. Additionally, they will also be buying a home in the $700,000 price range, so you also missed out on that transaction too. The client has chosen someone else. With over 12 people who requested this referral, keep in mind that If you would have been one of our Preferred REALTORS - that referral would have come straight to you. Good News - this zip code is still available for Preferred REALTOR in case you want to apply before someone else gets it 09/03/2026

There is nothing wrong with a builder mortgage incentive. In many cases, the preferred-lender package is excellent. The risk begins when the headline rate becomes the entire financing analysis.The National Association of Home Builders reported in August that a majority of builders continued to use sales incentives, including mortgage rate buydowns, to support new-home sales. For Colorado agents, that means the financing conversation often begins at the model home, not after the contract is signed.I put the complete buyer checklist here: http://co-mortgage.com/2026/08/31/builder-mortgage-incentives-colorado/The agent's goal does not need to be steering the buyer away from the builder's lender. The goal is making sure the buyer understands what is being offered, what it costs, and what ch... 08/31/2026

Reverse Mortgage vs. HELOC for Colorado Homeowners 62+Colorado homeowners who have owned their homes for many years may be sitting on substantial home equity.That can create opportunities in retirement, but it also raises an important question:What is the best way to access that equity?For homeowners age 62 and older, two options often worth comparing are a traditional Home Equity Line of Credit, or HELOC, and a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage, commonly called a HECM reverse mortgage.Neither option is automatically better.The right choice depends on what the homeowner is trying to accomplish, how much cash they need, their income, their existing mortgage, how long they plan to stay in the home, and how important preserving equity is to them.Here are five questions I think Colorado homeo... 08/26/2026

There isn't a definitive list of every production ever filmed in Fremont County because many silent films from 1910–1925 have been lost or had incomplete records. Historians estimate that more than 40 feature films and dozens of shorts, documentaries, commercials, and television productions have been filmed in Fremont County.This list was assembled from the Royal Gorge Film Commission, local historians, AI and film records.Silent Films (1911–1929)Many of these starred Tom Mix and were filmed around Cañon City and the Royal Gorge. Unfortunately, several have been lost to history. The Range Riders (1911) Ranch Life in the Great Southwest (1912) The Great K & A Train Robbery (1926) Numerous Tom Mix western shorts filmed between 1911 and 1917 (many titles are lost or disputed). Feature Film... 08/05/2026

20 Things You Probably Didn't Know About Fremont County, ColoradoI've lived in Fremont County for many years, and the more I learn about this area, the more I'm amazed by its history. Most people know about the Royal Gorge Bridge or that Cañon City has plenty of sunshine, but there are so many stories hiding just beneath the surface.Whether you've lived here your whole life or you're thinking about moving here, here are 20 interesting facts about Fremont County that you may not have heard before.1. Colorado's oil industry started here.Most people think of Texas when they think of oil, but Colorado's first successful commercial oil well was actually drilled near Florence in 1862. In fact, it was one of the first productive oil fields west of the Mississippi River.2. Dinosaurs put Fremont... 08/05/2026

Our goal is to reduce or eliminate the 1989 Metro Bond Property Tax in The Meadows, which is 1/3 of everyone’s cost, and is expected to continue for another 50+ years. If someone wants to be on update email distribution list, send an email to Jim Garcia at MeadowsMetro@gmail.com.Here is an update of where things stand with Metro Bond Tax in The Meadows Castle Rock.The law team at Burg Simpson (BS), which was originally hired to represent Metro District 1 has expanded to now represent districts 1, 2, & 7. Engagement contracts have been signed by Districts 2 & 7. Districts 1,2,&7 retain all of the debt for the 7 Districts. The Boards worked collectively to re-allocate budgeted money to fund this item. The Boards met earlier this year and approved joining District 1.BS has narrowed their f... 07/29/2026

Understanding Aurora home builders in Aurora, COIf you are researching Aurora home builders, you are likely comparing new construction, newer resale homes, planned communities, and long-term value in Aurora, CO. As a local realtor, I encourage buyers and sellers to look beyond floor plans and model homes and focus on the full ownership picture.New construction can be exciting, but the best decision comes from understanding location, builder quality, lot position, upgrades, financing, timelines, warranties, and resale potential. Aurora has a wide range of housing options, so buyers should compare both new homes and resale homes before deciding which path fits best.Why Buyers Consider New Construction in AuroraMany buyers look at new construction because they want modern layouts, updated ... 06/23/2026

 Parker Days is a big deal for Parker Colorado this weekend!    All the kids wait for this time of year as there are so many fun things to do for the entire family! You will find -~ Parade~ Food~ Carnival Rides~ Three concert stages with free music~ Ferris Wheels~ Beer Gardens     Need to know more about this event?    Check out their web site.              Here was a video from a past year's event -  Have a great time at Parker Days this weekend!  06/12/2026

Why Meritage Homes Painted Prairie Are in DemandMeritage Homes Painted Prairie offer buyers an exceptional opportunity to live in one of Colorado’s most sought-after master-planned communities. Located in Painted Prairie, CO, this neighborhood appeals to families, professionals, and retirees seeking modern designs, energy-efficient construction, and access to community amenities. Residents enjoy well-planned streets, parks, and recreational areas, making it a highly desirable location for long-term living.Buyers are drawn to Meritage Homes Painted Prairie for its combination of contemporary home features, scenic surroundings, and a strong sense of community. With convenient access to shopping, dining, and schools, this neighborhood provides both comfort and practicality for homeowners.C... 06/10/2026

Why Willow Park Homes for Sale Are in DemandWillow Park homes for sale offer a unique opportunity to live in one of Denver, CO’s most desirable neighborhoods. This community attracts families, professionals, and retirees seeking modern amenities, scenic surroundings, and a welcoming environment. Residents enjoy tree-lined streets, nearby parks, and convenient access to schools, shopping, and dining, making Willow Park an appealing place to call home.Buyers are drawn to Willow Park for its combination of suburban tranquility and city accessibility. The neighborhood provides a safe, family-friendly environment while offering easy access to Denver’s cultural, entertainment, and employment hubs, making it a prime choice for homebuyers.Community Lifestyle and AmenitiesLife in Willow Park emp... 06/10/2026

In the rapidly moving world of real estate, we often fixate heavily on residential resale data—median home prices, days on market, and interest rates. But if you are overlooking the rental market, you are missing a massive piece of the economic puzzle.Whether you are a property manager keeping vacancy rates low, an investor looking for your next acquisition, a realtor advising clients, or a consumer trying to make a smart housing move, staying on top of localized rental data isn’t just a good habit—it’s a competitive necessity. How Rental Data Impacts the Industry Rental statistics don’t exist in a vacuum; they influence the market in every sector of our business: For Property Managers & Realtors: Setting the right price is a skill. Price an investment property too high, and it sits vac... 06/03/2026

Downtown Colorado Springs is set to transform into a massive, interactive open-air gallery, inviting art enthusiasts, families, and curious explorers to participate in the highly anticipated Art on the Streets Scavenger Hunt. Organized by the Downtown Partnership of Colorado Springs, this annual celebration offers a unique, hands-on way to engage with the city’s vibrant public art culture.What to Expect: The Art on the Streets Scavenger HuntThe Art on the Streets (AOTS) Scavenger Hunt is a passport-guided adventure that weaves through the 40-square-block urban corridor of the Downtown Creative District. The event is designed to introduce the community to the newest yearlong outdoor gallery installations, which include stunning sculptures, breathtaking murals, and dynamic multi-media pie... 05/27/2026

When you think of buying real estate in Colorado, standard single-family homes often come to mind. However, the market in historic Cañon City offers unique gems for those looking for something outside the box. Whether you are an investor looking for a curated vintage vibe, an entrepreneur wanting a live-work space, or a homeowner seeking separate quarters for family or rental income, the current market has some truly distinctive finds.Here are three highly unique properties currently on the market in Cañon City that break the traditional cookie-cutter mold:1. The Vintage Mobile Home Park with Mid-Century Flair Address: 1535 Rosedale Lane, Cañon City, CO 81212 Price: $600,000  Now $585,000 Property Type: Residential Income / Multi-Unit If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a boutique, stylize... 05/26/2026

Making History: American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life is Coming to Fremont and Custer Counties This OctoberFor the first time in history, the American Cancer Society is bringing its iconic, life-changing Relay For Life event to Fremont and Custer counties.As a member of the volunteer planning committee, I am absolutely thrilled to share that neighbors from across our region will finally have a dedicated, local space to unite, honor loved ones, and lead the charge toward a world without cancer.Whether you are a survivor, a caregiver, someone currently navigating a diagnosis, or someone who wants to stand in solidarity with those who are, this historic event is for you.Save the Date: October 3, 2026Grab your calendars and Save the Date for Saturday, October 3, 2026.The community gather... 05/25/2026

Let me start off by saying I am a little biased towards The Knolls, I have personally lived here for 26 years. When I got into real estate a few of my friends made the comment. "now that you have a real estate license i assume you will be moving". That was honestly not on my mind, I really got into real estate because I loved working for myself and wanted a career that allowed some flexibility as I had young children and I also wanted a career that the sky was the limit.I had my license for about 4 months when my wife mentioned there was a home she had always wanted (her childhood dream home) in a neighborhood she loved and would I see if there are any homes like this one available. Lo and behold there was, we wrote an offer that day and it was accepted. When I shared this with my then ... 05/18/2026