This week is showing definite signs of activity. Several land parcels and lots are under contract as well as a variety of condos, townhomes and single-family properties. Pending sales have been holding steady over 100 for the past few weeks and showings are on the increase in our office.

Everyone is gearing up for Labor Day weekend where there is something for everyone! The Wild West Air Fest, Steamboat Stage Race, Stock Dog Challenge and more. Check out the chamber’s website for more details. The weather has been beautiful so make your plans today!

Here are a few article from the Steamboat Pilot & Today:

Real estate transactions for Aug. 13 to 19, 2010 

http://www2.steamboatpilot.com/news/2010/aug/22/real-estate-transactions-aug-13-19-2010/

Looking for an entry-level condo or ski town getaway? Look no more! This 1 bedroom condo has been completely remodeled with around $30k in upgrades from the studs out.  Great location in the complex and views of the mountain, easy access to free bus and the complex has great amenities. Call today for more info. 970.819.4897 or email angela@yoursteamboathome.com

Recently, there were significant price reductions on some lots in Steamboat.  The Steamboat Barn Village is where the famous poster shot was taken of cowboys on horses with their skis against the backdrop of the historic More Barn. This is a great piece of land that has a walking trail on the perimeter, Fish Creek bordering the north side and views of the ski mountain, valley and Emerald Mountain that are incredible. The central location makes this a great investment for building now while construction prices are lower or hold for the future. Prices begin at $224,950 and there are some sweet lots by the creek.

Barn Village at Steamboat prices sliced in half 

http://www2.steamboatpilot.com/news/2010/may/30/barn-village-steamboat-prices-sliced-half/

You might have noticed that there is a lot of logging activity going on these days around Routt County. This is all very important even though you might not like the looks of it or it gets in your way when hiking or biking. There are several groups including the US Forest Service, State Forest Service and businesses working on removing the dead beetle kill pines that encompass our vast forest.

It is important that they are removed to prevent human injury if they are to fall. So, when you are recreating take note of what is above you, be patient if there is debris in the roadway from logging because these trees need to be removed. 

If you really want to make a difference and see your efforts grow throughout your lifetime, join hundreds of other volunteers on June 26th for Re-Tree Colorado where we will plant thousands of trees in one day! Get a group together because it is going to be a great day followed by food, entertainment and there is even a free concert at Howelsen that night. For more info visit www.retreecolorado.com

Logging cleanup to continue in Steamboat 

http://www2.steamboatpilot.com/news/2010/may/28/logging-cleanup-continue-steamboat/

Community Agriculture Alliance: Beware of falling trees 

From some local lenders here in Steamboat, there is news about USDA loans. We receive weekly updates and this is from today’s “Did You Know” compliments of Kathryn Pedersen and Holly Rogers of Yampa Valley Bank is this:

Did you know that the USDA GRH program is back? As of today, they are allowing us to lock and fund USDA loans. A bill has passed the House and Senate and now moves to the conference process. Unless something changes, we are full steam ahead on USDA loans.  Just in case you forgot, the USDA program provides 100% financing with no monthly mortgage insurance cost. It has rapidly become one of the most popular programs for entry level buyers. It must be used to purchase a primary residence and there are income guidelines specific to Routt County. kpedersen@yampavalleybank.com if you want more info. Have a great Memorial Weekend All and if you’re in Steamboat over the weekend, give me a call or shoot me an email. I’m working all weekend. angela@yoursteamboathome.com 970.819.4897 

Interesting read in the Sunday Denver Post about the real estate markets in Rocky Mountain Region.  Numbers are definitely trending up in many areas including Routt County. We are beginning to see some serious price reductions on land and have seen a flurry of activity on lot sales which is a great indicator of improvement.  The trick is in getting the loan if your intention is to get a construction loan and build soon. There are a couple local lenders that are doing these types of loans if you are worthy!

The Denver Post Article, by Margaret Jackson

http://www.denverpost.com/realestate/ci_15139996

Nothing earthshattering about this blog post, just sharing some of the pertinent articles that have hit our newspaper over the last few days. Happy Reading!

Under Armour founding member shifts careers with Sweetwood Cattle Co.  

http://www2.steamboatpilot.com/news/2010/may/23/under-armour-founding-member-shifts-careers-sweetw/

Real estate transaction for May 14 to 20, 2010 

http://www2.steamboatpilot.com/news/2010/may/23/real-estate-transaction-may-14-20-2010/

Stagecoach log home goes to foreclosure 

http://www2.steamboatpilot.com/news/2010/may/23/stagecoach-log-home-goes-foreclosure/

 Excess not quite as cool anymore in Steamboat 

Lodging demand returns in Steamboat 

http://www2.steamboatpilot.com/news/2010/may/21/lodging-demand-returns-steamboat/

 (Gratuitous pic of my dog at Steamboat Lake)

Much has been going on regarding the base area improvements at Steamboat Base Area. With some delay, it now looks like things are back on track and will be reviewed as the summer progresses. Improvements on the mountain and the downtown repaving project are putting things into shape around here for future enjoyment. 

For more information, see Steamboat Pilot & Today article:

Steamboat base area group optimistic about summer work

http://www2.steamboatpilot.com/news/2010/may/14/steamboat-base-area-group-optimistic-about-summer-/

This week has been particularly interesting as we have seen a few larger properties go under contract and pending sales are on the increase. Cash buyers are seeking the deals and sellers are listening! Amidst the crazy lending market where every day is a new day, there is still opportunity if you have the patience. As we wind up our ski season, blue skies prevail with spring conditions on the mountain and a fun line up of free concerts… savvy buyers are scoping out the Steamboat real estate market. Ski in April for $99/4 passes.

In March, there will be an auction of some high-end condos near the base of the ski area. These condos were built in 2006 but barely used and will come fully furnished The word is that price per square foot will be around $420-500/sf for starting bids.  If you have cash, want to be steps away from the base area and amenities this is something worth looking into.  I can register you and give you more details. Other projects in the area are getting $800-1300/sf.    angela@yoursteamboathome.com