The bottom yet?

As the real estate debacle continues to unsettle our economy, chief economists are very afraid that things will still get worse before they get much better. Colorado Springs has taken its fair share of lumps during this process however it's important to point out that these stats reflect a more national view on real estate and its effect on the economy. Since our appreciation rate has been more on par with modest 3-5% annuals return rates our housing market has been very protected from owners owing more on their loans then their houses are appraising for. Remember, things are bad but they could definitely be worse.

Leadership Takes Center Stage

Colorado Springs is going to great lengths to promote community awareness and leadership. Click on the above title for a story that I wrote in this weeks Colorado Springs Business Journal about getting younger generations involved in leadership.

An article for the agents

What is an agent to do? The economy tells us that the housing market continues to develop negatively. Many agents are either taking on second jobs or hanging up their license altogether. Over the past 10 years business had been great! It seemed like everyone was able to buy a house and the market was appraising at a very rapid pace. However, these times are much different and it is extremely important to stay on top of potential clients while focusing on marketing techniques. I don't see the amount of agents who are dropping out of the business as a sign that I should do the same, rather I see it as an opportunity to diversify myself and grab new business. So, what are you doing to get more business? Here are some ideas that could help get the ball rolling:
Create a blog and advertise it to everyone you know.
Let those same people know that you are still in the business and that you LOVE referrals.
Attend networking events with other professionals.
Get involved in community groups and charity events.
Pick a four-five block radius around an area that you know well and market yourself door to door.
Partner up with another agent in your firm and work together to obtain greater exposure.
Find For Sale by Owner properties for the potential to list.
Advertise on college campuses to attract first time buyers.
These are just some ways to separate yourself from the pack. Remember, you are selling yourself and a service the services that you can provide. Business isn't going to always walk through the door so you are going to have to go get it!

10 months to sell a home (on average)

This is an interesting article regarding how long it can take to sell your home in the Springs. Starter homes are obviously going quicker because they are more affordable and discounted. I have to agree with the individual who commented on the article when they said that "if priced right" it is more on average with 3-4 monthes.

A great caucus turnout!

Colorado gets a voice! This is the first time that Colorado has been part of Super Tuesday (our caucuses used to be held in March.) I hope that everybody will get a chance to participate in this wonderful democratic process!

Never hurts to think SAFE!

2007 Top 25 top accident-prone intersections and rankings:

1. BRIARGATE PY/N POWERS BLw+* 6.29
2. N POWERS BL/N UNION BLw 2.97
3. S ACADEMY BL/S CHELTON RD 2.49
4. HY-83/N ACADEMY BL 2.42
5. NEW CENTER PT/S CAREFREE CR 2.19
6. AUSTIN BLUFFS PY/RANGEWOOD DR 2.17
7. E WOODMEN RD/N UNION BL+ 2.17
8. N POWERS BL/OLD RANCH RDw+ 2.13
9. E BIJOU ST/N ACADEMY BL+ 2.12
10. HY-83/N POWERS BLw+ 2.09
11. BRIARGATE BL/N UNION BL 2.08
12. E UINTAH ST/N WEBER ST 1.98
13. LAKE AV/SOUTHGATE RD+ 1.95
14. DUBLIN BL/N ACADEMY BL+ 1.93
15. BRIARGATE PY/HY-83 1.88
16. GALLEY RD/N MURRAY BL 1.80
17. AIRPORT RD/S ACADEMY BL+ 1.77
18. E PLATTE AV/N UNION BL 1.76
19. N CAREFREE CR/N POWERS BLw 1.64
20. ASTROZON BL/S ACADEMY BL 1.63
21. E PLATTE AV/N WAHSATCH AV+ 1.59
22. E PLATTE AV/N NEVADA AV+ 1.57
23. CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN BL/HY-115w 1.51
24. AUSTIN BLUFFS PY/N UNION BL+ 1.51
25. DURYEA DR/E WOODMEN RD 1.49

The goverment wants you to do what!?

Now that the government has decided to give you a 600.00 rebate(single) or 1200.00 (per couple) check they want you to....................shop till you drop. It's hard not to notice all of the people who have come out of the woodwork stating that in order to revive the economy you should spend that money as soon as you get it. Even investors are getting in on the act by putting their money in large retail establishments while hoping for large gains. Do yourself a favor and put that money to work for YOU and your family rather than blowing it all on frivolous purchases. You can help the economy much more by paying down some of your debt or putting your money in a bond or CD. If your looking to buy a house this is an excellent opportunity to add funds to help with your down payment costs. If you absolutely have to go out and buy a material item, how about a bicycle. Not only are they great for exercise but they can help save on some fuel costs too! Additionally, you can get a energy efficient appliance to help cut down on energy costs. Use your new found money to improve your situation which in turn will ultimately lead to a greater economy.