The Grange Reception Office

Tuesday-Saturday, 10-5; Sunday-Monday 12-5

303.814.2358

Renting The Grange

303.814.9736

The Grange Pool Office (In Season Only)

303.468.5222

Russell Haigh CMCA

Community Manager for The Meadows Neighborhood Company

Tuesday-Friday 10-5; Monday 12-5

c/o MSI

RHaigh@msihoa.com g>

Randy Watt

During the housing boom of the late '90s and early 2000s, renting a home was widely considered an inferior alternative to buying a home with rapidly increasing values. After 30 years of stability in home ownership rates, the United States tallied 12 million new homeowners between 1994 and 2004, according to Census Bureau data. In 1994, nearly 63 percent of Colorado residents owned homes. By 2004, more than 71 percent were homeowners. At that point, home ownership peaked and many people reconsidered renting.

In the Colorado real estate market, renting and buying each bring significant advantages and disadvantages. While buying a home may be attractive from a financial standpoint, there are other considerations.

Finances

Buying a home is a major investment that creates equity and brings significant tax breaks. A home also could turn a tidy profit. National real estate expert Barbara Corcoran recently predicted the Denver area will be the first housing market to recover from the housing slump. Moreover, Castle Rock home values have seen a lower rate of decrease than surrounding cities, according to Zillow. This translates to good deals in a relatively healthy market poised for an increase in values.

On the other hand, a Wall Street Journal financial expert argues for the financial advantages of renting a home. He suggests the stock market will increase faster than home values, so if rental costs are lower than mortgage payments, investing the extra money in stocks will result in better returns.

There are other financial downsides to buying a home. An exciting relocation to Colorado could be delayed by difficulty in selling a previous home. Also, a change in income or family budget could make it difficult to pay the mortgage. Renters can more easily trade up or down to meet their budget. They also won't face the threat of foreclosure.

Flexibility

Renting a home offers flexibility. Many are moving to Colorado for the outdoor lifestyle and natural beauty even if relocating means settling for a less-than-ideal job. These new residents may later find a lucrative job in the Denver Tech Center but are stuck with a long commute if they own a home. Those who are renting a home could easily move to a closer neighborhood, such as the Meadows in Castle Rock. They might also move to Castle Rock from a rental in Aurora or another eastern suburb for greater proximity to hiking trails and Rocky Mountains recreation.

Renters can also turn in their keys, move the furniture into storage and spend a month hiking the Colorado Trail or six months traveling through Europe. The responsibilities and costs of owning a home could make a spontaneous adventure prohibitive.

At the same time, homeowners have the flexibility to paint the walls, hammer in picture hooks or plant a vegetable garden without fear of losing a security deposit.

Upkeep

Some refer to renting a home as paying someone else's mortgage, but the monthly bill also includes a form of maintenance insurance. Rental contracts generally include provisions for the landlord to pay for many types of repairs. A homeowner is on the hook for all repairs and upkeep.

Stability

Many homeowners report pride and emotional satisfaction in buying a home. They may also feel like a more permanent part of a community if they own a home.

Finally, to help make a smart decision, Bankrate.com has a simple questionnaire that helps recommend either buying or renting a home.

Written by Steve Graham

For many people, the decision to move to Colorado starts with the longing for a mountain atmosphere and then grows into a desire to experience the life to be found in friendly neighborhoods with low crime rates. Still others are drawn by the economy; Moody's Economy.com predicted that Colorado will be one of the first states to pull out of the recession because of the concentration of high-tech industry in the state.

Location, Location, Location

From the lush green timberline town of Telluride to the elite slopes of Aspen, there are many areas in Colorado to consider. Each area offers its own advantages, represents a slightly different culture, and affords a variety of employment and educational opportunities.

By far, the most popular area to move in Colorado is the Denver metro area, which has the highest employment rate, highest average earnings, and some of the most reasonable housing prices in the entire state. In addition, there are several small towns outside Denver where education standards are the highest in the state and crime rates are the lowest. Among these towns are Evergreen, Conifer, Winter Park and Larkspur.

If you want country living that's close to city amenities, though, look at Castle Rock.

Castle Rock is right between Denver and Colorado Springs, doubling your opportunities for employment and plenty of entertainment. Despite its proximity to the cities, though, Castle Rock boasts a friendly small-town atmosphere. This is where you will find abundant parks, lots of open space for outdoor adventure and views of the Rockies.

Recently, Castle Rock was recognized as "one of the best places in the country to live" by both Family Circle magazine and RelocateAmerica.com. From a strong belief in open government to one of the nation's best climates (averaging more than 300 days of sunshine per year, with low humidity), you are practically guaranteed to find exactly what you're looking for in Colorado life in Castle Rock.

Your Perfect Colorado Home

To find your Colorado dream home, you should pay special attention to a tenet that will help you find the Colorado way of life at its most fulfilling:

The best homes have been designed to preserve the natural open spaces and views of Colorado. These homes have been designed and built by professionals who both understand the needs of a quality home in Colorado as well as the values that the culture holds dear.

Of all the communities in Colorado, The Meadows in Castle Rock stands out vividly. Wide open views of untouched nature, foothill ridgelines to explore, spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains and quick access to Denver are paired with the charm of events that bring the community together. The Denver Tech Center is just 14 miles away from The Meadows, leaving you with a short commute to city life and great jobs while experiencing small-town values at home.

Whatever region in Colorado you choose to move to, you should take the time to consider the following questions:

1. What are my housing needs? Your home should fit the way you live. Make a list of priorities like size, amenities and ideal lot types.

2. Are the homes I'm looking at in a good climate? A short 30-minute drive from one town on the outskirts of Denver to another can mean a huge difference in altitude, snowfall and temperature extremes.

3. Have I got clear needs to communicate to my real estate agent? On average, home buyers see 15 houses before choosing the right one. Clearly communicating your needs and wishes will help you save time.

4. When looking at homes, have I considered maintenance issues? Areas north of Denver and south of Grand Junction often experience extreme weather, requiring special home maintenance. Around the metro area, maintenance concerns can focus more on quality-of-life issues because the climate is more temperate.

5. Are there neighborhood restrictions or covenants? This is an important question to ask, because it can be a deal-breaker if you find covenants that you're not willing or able to live up to.

SOURCES

HUD

The Meadows

Town of Castle Rock

MSNBC

Written by Lolaness

How much can you afford?

This is actually a two-part question: How much can you spend for a down payment and how much can you spend on a monthly mortgage?

Both are easily calculated. Total your savings and determine what you can spend on a down payment while still leaving a comfortable cushion. Then calculate 25 percent of your monthly income, which is as high as most experts say home buyers should go when considering a mortgage.

In 2007, the estimated median home value was $261,945 in Castle Rock and $233,900 across Colorado, according to City Data. Although interest rates and mortgage prices vary, several online calculators can help determine if your down payment and mortgage estimates meet prices in the Colorado real estate market.

Will you still have enough money for repairs?

A major difference between renting and buying is repair cost. Landlords typically handle major problems in a rental unit; if you own the home, obviously you're on the hook for any repairs. After subtracting the monthly mortgage payment and considering the budget for your lifestyle, decide if you can put away money each month for repairs and maintenance.

Colorado suffers few natural disasters and pests. There are few to no natural disasters. However, homeowners still must repair roofs (hail can be a problem at times) and replace furnaces.

Most such maintenance will not be an immediate concern in Castle Rock because many houses are new and well-constructed.

How long will you live in the home?

Before buying a home, determine if you are likely to stay there for at least five years. Selling a home in less than five years could mean losing money and not breaking even on the mortgage.

If you are moving to Colorado, many locals will say you'll never leave once you arrive in the Denver area. However, your employer may need you to relocate to another state, or other personal decisions could force a move out of Colorado.

Within the state, a job change or lifestyle decision may send you looking to move into a new neighborhood. A lucrative job in the Denver Tech Center or downtown Denver may have you considering a move to Castle Rock to cut your commute.

Do you like the neighborhood?

List your needs and desires for a neighborhood. Then walk around the area, talk to the people who live there and do online research. You don't want to buy a smaller, older home in Denver only to realize you really don't take advantage of the city's culture and lifestyle. You might quickly adapt to the outdoor lifestyle and want a small-town atmosphere. You might rather be in Castle Rock, with its network of hiking trails and bike paths, as well as quick access to mountain recreation.

How much work are you willing to do?

In narrowing the search, consider the number of needed repairs and upgrades in the home. Again, the Meadows in Castle Rock is new and solidly built, so homes there will need few if any repairs. "Fixer-uppers" can be attractive at first until you realize the amount of money and time you'll need to sink into the property.

How do you find a real estate agent?

If you are leaning toward buying a house, take time to find a good real estate agent to help answer all of the above questions and guide you through more considerations.

Ask friends and area residents for recommendations. Then conduct phone interviews with a few agents to find one who understands and matches your needs and personality. Finally, ask for references and contact previous clients.

The Denver area has had a relatively large number of foreclosures and an experienced agent can navigate the problems and legal considerations of buying a foreclosed property. Colorado residents are also keen on energy-efficient upgrades, which could save money and boost home value. Again, an agent needs to understand the laws, rebates and technology regarding energy efficiency if it is important to you.

How do you find a lender?

Again, do your homework and find a reputable lender. You might want to start with your bank's loan officer. Working with a single financial institution will simplify the process. Also talk to other lenders in the area. Shop around for the best rates and service. You can meet with dozens of lenders before making any commitments.

If you are buying your first home, some advise against online lenders because you will have many questions and will want the personal service of a local lender you can meet face to face.

Written by Steve Graham

1. Take your neighbors treats. Don't wait for the longtime residents to bring cookies and welcome you to the neighborhood. Shortly after moving in, take some treats around to other families on your block. It's a warm gesture (especially with warm cookies) and a quick way to meet the neighbors. After the tour, write down the names of your neighbors on a diagram of the street, particularly if you are forgetful with names.

2. Invite some folks over for dessert or drinks. If you seemed to "click" with a few people, get to know those neighbors better by inviting them over for drinks or dessert. If you invite a few people, it won't be as intimidating for you or them. They might even have their first chance to get to know each other.

3. Get gardening advice. Colorado's climate and soil challenge even experienced gardeners relocating from other regions. Look for the most beautiful gardens on the block. Those homeowners invariably spend plenty of time in the yard, so it should be easy to meet them and get to know the neighbors with green thumbs. Skilled gardeners love to talk about their yards, so ask them for advice for improving your garden.

4. Go to neighborhood clubs and events. Some neighborhoods have a variety of active clubs and meetings, often in a central location. The Meadows is focused around the Grange, a community center and clubhouse that hosts regular events such as gardening classes, children's playgroups and bridge clubs. Most are open to the public, and are an easy way to have fun while getting to know your neighbors.

5. Host a garage sale. If you are relocating to a new state, you probably just had a garage sale before packing the moving truck, but you might consider another one when you arrive in Colorado. There are usually items you just couldn't give up before the move but now realize you will never use again. Instead of stashing them in the attic until the next move, clear out the clutter with a garage sale. It's a surefire way to meet more neighbors.

6. Take a hike. Whether you are a runner, walker or cyclist, there are dozens of trails in and around The Meadows - and hundreds more just a short drive away. Most of your neighbors have already explored the trails and made a list of favorites. Ask them for advice or invite them along on a hike.

7. Visit online message boards. The Internet has changed the definitions of community. It's easy to find others with similar interests in the Castle Rock area beyond your immediate neighborhood. Use sites such as meetup.com or craigslist.org to find out about area clubs, meetings and groups of interest.

8. Strike up a conversation at the farmers' market. Castle Rock has a thriving farmers' market that fosters a unique community. You can chat with farmers who grow your food, and get to know neighbors browsing the stands. If you see someone with an unusual vegetable, stop and ask them how they like to use it.

9. Set up a lemonade stand. The last two ideas are for families with young children. You can teach kids some business skills and get to know your neighbors at the same time by setting up a lemonade stand. It's hard to pass a lemonade stand without stopping to chat.

10. Plan a scavenger hunt. You may have some trinkets that have yet to find a new resting place. Why not hide them around the yard or the house and invite the neighborhood kids over for a scavenger hunt? While the kids are poking around, the grown-ups will have time to get to know their neighbors.

Written by Steve Graham

Walk the Neighborhood

Buying a home is a major, long-term commitment. If you are moving to Colorado and considering a house in a specific neighborhood, walk through the area at different times of the day to really get a feel for the area.

You can see traffic patterns throughout the day and get a feel for surrounding homes. Particularly in an older neighborhood, look at the age and quality of those homes. Real estate experts recommend against buying the odd house on the block, a house that is substantially different in value or appearance than the other houses. This should be a lesser concern in a newer neighborhood, such as the Meadows in Castle Rock.

Families should walk through a neighborhood and see if other children can safely enjoy the outdoors in playgrounds, pools and play groups.

Outdoor recreation for all ages is often a priority in relocating to Colorado. The state has a large web of trails, cycling paths and parks. This sometimes leads Colorado real estate agents to make open space access a selling point for nearly any home.

Without walking around the neighborhood, it's hard to know what open space access means. In some areas, it can mean a bike path is within five miles of the house. In the Meadows and other recreation-focused communities, it means trails weave through neighborhoods dotted by parks. There are also more than seven miles of trails in the Meadows' protected Ridgeline open space.

Talking to Neighbors

A short walk through the neighborhood may bring up other questions that only a neighbor can answer. Don't be afraid to knock on a neighbor's door or stop a strolling family. They can be good unbiased sources for information on noise, neighborhood personalities and issues such as trash service problems or cell-phone service. They can also offer anecdotal information about schools or commute times.

Researching Data

Neighbors can offer personal experiences, but that won't provide the full picture on schools, commute times and other issues. For a more thorough overview, search for neighborhood information on the Internet. For example, a Meadows couple without children may not even realize the area's schools consistently outpace the state average in student performance. Families moving to Colorado can find a wealth of information about public schools at the state education department Web site.

Internet mapping sites show the proximity of area hospitals, restaurants, retail and services, as well as a satellite view of the neighborhood (though these images can be several years old and may misrepresent newer communities). City Data and other Web sites also have detailed demographics and other information for every city and ZIP code in the United States.

Finally, spend time reviewing the rules, fees and restrictions for homeowners' association, which establish the rules and regulations for many developments. The fine print may be listed online or be available through the association's office. Search the Internet for an HOA lawyer if you have questions or concerns about the legal language.

Written by Steve Graham

A new monthly "adversity index" compiled by Moody's and MSNBC.com in June 2009 measures employment, industrial production, housing starts and housing prices to forecast recovery times for states and metro areas.

"States that have a high concentration in tech-related industries are well positioned to take advantage of this trend, which is particularly true of Colorado, Idaho, Oregon and Washington and to a lesser extent, Texas," said economist Andrew Gledhill of Moody's Economy.com.

States that have been the last to see the recession, like Colorado, will likely be the first to see significant improvements, economists say. Additionally, states with a diverse form of growth that have not been reliant on single forms of growth like manufacturing, will see the first signs of rebounding.

Investigative reporter Bill Dedman considered the adversity index and wrote, "The recession didn't start at the same time in every state, and it won't end at the same time either. . . . Jobs growth will return first in those five states, starting in the last quarter of this year. Four of those states benefit from strong high-tech industries, and the fifth, Texas, has a strong base of energy industries."

Stephen Titus of Colorado Biz writes, "Developers see a recovering demand for new homes, not on the same scale as the roaring '90s, but driven by the same market forces: professionals who typically work in Denver or Colorado Springs but don't mind the 20-minute commute to either of Colorado's two largest cities."

Titus could well be talking about Castle Rock, in Douglas County. Living in Castle Rock provides a commuter easy access to jobs in Colorado Springs, Denver and the Denver Tech Center. Douglas County has seen some of the most positive economic growth in the state for decades. Housing developments in the Castle Rock area, like The Meadows, remain an attractive place to live, giving people a taste of quality country life within easy reach of the city.

Colorado and Texas's housing growth has remained steadier in the past decade and both states were "among the last to join the recession, in large part due to lingering impacts from the energy boom of years past," Gledhill said. "Similarly, other expected early risers such as Washington and Colorado were relatively late to join the recession for various reasons. Thus, as conditions begin to turn nationally, they have less of a hole to dig themselves out of."

The state's government has been acutely aware of economic issues and has been active in attacking them head-on. A June 2009 bill signed by Gov. Bill Ritter was designed to modernize the state budget. "This modernization act levels the playing field," Ritter said. "This is a fiscally responsible measure that maintains one of the nation's tightest caps on spending and does not raise taxes. It simply provides greater flexibility so the state can make wiser investments with existing resources."

The state's gross domestic product has continued to increase each year from 2003 ($187 billion) to 2007 ($236 billion) according to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. The BEA's March 2009 report showed that U.S. personal income growth slowed to 3.9 percent in 2008 but Colorado's personal income increased 4.9 percent from 2007 to 2008 (10th in the nation), and the state's population increased 2 percent, making it the fifth-most popular state to move to. CNN Money lists Denver as the seventh-best place to live and launch a new company, and fourth in the nation for receiving federal government funding through the Small Business Innovation Research program.

Chris Blackwood, managing director of Denver's Davidson Fixed Management group, says, "Colorado is a growth state. Colorado has done better in almost every sector of the economy than the nation." He cites statistics that show Colorado's better than average growth with the rest of the nation due to its diverse economic makeup that consists of high technology, education, health services, oil, and the always strong tourist trade.

As investigative reporter Dedman wrote, "If you want to be in the right place when the recovery starts, that place may be in Colorado, Idaho, Oregon, Texas or Washington."

Written by John S. Craig

SOURCES

Bureau of Economic Analysis

The Meadows, Castle Rock

City of Denver

Office of the Governor of Colorado

Most educated states

CBS4 Denver report, "Colorado Insulated from Some Economic Woes"

Titus, Stephen. http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-116041672.html

Rutberg, Shana. Best places to start a business, CNN Money http://money.cnn.com/galleries/2008/fsb/0803/gallery.best_places_to_launch.fsb/7.html

Start with the Colorado Department of Education. The Colorado Department of Education is the perfect place to begin your research on schools in Colorado. Its Web site offers information and statistics on Colorado's school districts, as well as information about state standards and assessments.

Gather information on the school district closest to you. The school districts in Colorado present parents with a wide range of possibilities for their child's schooling. Douglas County public schools, for example, are one of the best public school districts in Colorado. In 2007, 82 percent of students in Douglas County public schools in grades 3-6 scored either proficient or advanced on the English portion of the Colorado Student Assessment Program (CSAP), with 81 percent proficient or advanced on the mathematics portion of the assessment. And if you settle down in a community such as The Meadows in Castle Rock, you can enjoy luxurious home life matched with the natural beauty of Colorado's landscapes. Gathering information like this on the Colorado public schools closest to you can help you assess the area before you even purchase a home.

Plan visits to local public and private schools. Once you've gathered the relevant information about the public school system in Colorado and your local school district, it's time to get in touch with local schools directly. If you are moving to Colorado in the middle of the school year, you'll need to make these visits a priority so that you can get your child enrolled in school promptly. Visit both the school that you are closest to and any additional schools (private schools, too) that you are interested in. You can view statistics for specific schools online through School Digger, which ranks schools by state, county and district. It provides statistics about schoolwide assessments and student/teacher populations and ratios. The important thing is to research and visit schools to ascertain which Colorado schools can best meet the needs of your child.

Locating the best schools in Colorado may seem like a daunting task, especially in the midst of a move. However, the resources at your fingertips can help ease the transition for your entire family.

Written by: Kelly Herdrich

First, Twitter users can connect with ColoradoJobs, an aggregated feed of hundreds of job postings on Web sites all over the state. Even in the recession, plenty of jobs are available.

Second, many of the openings are with primary employers in robust energy and technology fields poised to drive the economic recovery. Colorado has long had strong technology industries and was developing renewable energy before green was a buzzword.

A recent report showed technology employment in Colorado climbed in 2007. The state trails only Virginia and Massachusetts in the percentage of its overall workforce in technology jobs.

Among the biggest employers is Lockheed Martin's facility in the southern Denver metro area, near Castle Rock. Overall, aerospace and satellite companies employ about 130,000 Colorado residents, many of whom are in recession-proof jobs connected with government contracts and groundbreaking technology.

The Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade expects continued aerospace industry growth, with employment projected to reach 232,000 by the end of 2010.

With Qwest, Level 3 and DirecTV in the Denver area, telecommunications is also a Colorado growth industry that will continue to look for new employees. Other cutting-edge industries with a strong state presence include biotechnology, nanotechnology and photonics, where Colorado ranks fifth in the nation.

Such industries are likely to continue growing in Colorado. Solid infrastructure, a healthy lifestyle and an ever-growing international airport are among the factors that make the Denver metropolitan area a particularly attractive place for businesses to relocate.

Moreover, Colorado is fast becoming the epicenter of a national explosion in renewable energy. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory and a major U.S. Department of Energy office have inspired and incubated green businesses in Colorado for nearly 20 years.

Colorado's 300 annual days of sunshine are as good for business as they are for health. Namaste Solar founder Blake Jones told CNN last year that his Boulder company has grown from three employees to 45 in its first four years. Last year, it installed more solar panels than any other Colorado company, but it is only one of dozens of solar manufacturers and installers in Colorado. These firms have seen 40 percent annual growth in solar energy for at least five years.

Colorado's eastern plains also get plenty of wind. Vestas and other international wind energy leaders are launching Colorado plants this year to build turbines and turn all the wind into electricity.

A job in sustainable renewable energy is a perfect match for a resident of a sustainably designed, sustainability-minded neighborhood such as The Meadows in Castle Rock.

In fact, Castle Rock is an ideal place to live for many of these jobs. At the south edge of the Denver metro area, it has a small-town feel but is very close to the Denver Tech Center and a short commute to downtown Denver. Likewise, it is an easy drive to Colorado Springs, another major employment hub. As both Denver and Colorado Springs grow, Castle Rock is sure to benefit from related business development.

Castle Rock, like the rest of the state, is young and growing quickly. That's great for business and good for networking. There's always new leads, new friends and new jobs around the corner. Here's your first tip: One of Denver's best kept secrets is a Web site, run by a former mayoral spokesman, giving the inside track on some of the region's hottest jobs. Welcome to Colorado. You're already an insider.

Written by: Steve Graham

Denver, also known as the "mile high city," serves as one of Colorado's main business districts, while the surrounding cities and towns are gateways to the wealth of outdoor sights and activities scattered throughout the state. Denver is probably one of the biggest reasons people are moving to Colorado today.

For those who would rather not live at the center of the big city but still want to be close to it, there's the small-town community with big city amenities: Castle Rock. Located halfway between Denver and Colorado Springs, Castle Rock offers the best of small-town life including low crime rates and fine Douglas County schools, or drop in on town council meetings every Tuesday at the Town Hall. Have your morning cup of coffee gazing out at the stunning Rocky Mountains, or head on over to the Outlets at Castle Rock shopping center during your lunch hour to stock up on those little items that make life worth living. Looking for the ideal balance between luxurious living and communing with nature? Check out luxury homes at Castle Rock communities such as The Meadows, which combines top-tier amenities with home designs and landscaping that complements Colorado's own natural beauty.

Whether you're leaving the fast-paced city lifestyle on the East Coast or escaping the humid climate of the South, here are some important things to consider when moving to Colorado:

1. Use government resources when moving to Colorado. The Colorado government Web site offers a list of services for residents and those who are considering moving to Colorado. You can find out how to get your Colorado driver's license, where to register your vehicle, how to find a doctor in your area, and also learn about homeownership assistance programs available in your county. Visit the Colorado.gov resources page before moving to Colorado.

2. Be prepared for cost of living adjustments when moving to Colorado. You can compare average wages and the cost of living index for cities in Colorado with your current city of residence using a free online cost of living wizard. This will allow you to compare the cost of living, salaries and average costs associated with moving to Colorado from your current state. It is a valuable tool to use when you are negotiating wages with a future employer before moving to Colorado, or when you find out what types of changes you'll need to make to your lifestyle after moving to Colorado.

3. Find a licensed real estate agent for your home search before moving to Colorado. The Colorado Division of Real Estate offers a free online e-service for looking up licensed real estate agents or companies you may be interested in working with when moving to Colorado. If you've never been to the state before, working with a professional and experienced real estate agent can make it easier to learn about different neighborhoods and get an insider's look at the real estate market. Visit the Division of Real Estate Web site to conduct an individual or company search before moving to Colorado.

4. Search home or apartment listings online before moving to Colorado. Even if a real estate agent is helping you with moving to Colorado, you can learn about different types and styles of homes and apartments available by doing an online search. Use online home and apartment search tools before moving to Colorado to browse pictures and virtual galleries of homes in different neighborhoods. This is an efficient and effective way to prepare for your Colorado move and narrow down the field of choices of properties.

5. Pick up guide books to discover city sights, attractions and cultural centers. In addition to the breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains and miles of hiking and nature trails, Colorado is home to several historic architectural sites, museums and old town centers that will give you a taste of Colorado culture. Pick up some guide books before moving to Colorado to read up on the best places to shop, dine, and attractions to explore. From Old Colorado City to the Mountain Zoo, you'll find an abundance of unique sites and activities to enjoy after you've finished moving to Colorado.

Written by: Sabah Karimi

Ranking 16^th on the nation's best public school systems list, Colorado prides itself in providing excellent educational facilities and opportunities to its residents.

Public education in Colorado is continuing to excel, through the use of technology, highly qualified teachers and special education services. Some of the best districts in the state include Arapahoe County, Littleton, Cherry Creek and Douglas County.

Douglas County School District is based in Castle Rock, a unique historic town of 46,000 residents conveniently located between Colorado Springs and Denver, two of Colorado's largest cities.

Douglas County is one of the top performing public school districts in the state. Each school in Douglas County sets high expectations for its students and strives to help every child succeed. Solid core curriculum and flexible, innovative instructional programs provided by the district ensure that every student is getting the best education possible. Douglas County has open enrollment available during the academic school year, as well as access to a dozen other facilities, including specialized charter and magnet schools.

If you and your family are planning on relocating to The Meadows in Castle Rock, you'll definitely want to check out some of this area's schools. There are three elementary schools: Clear Sky, Meadow View and Soaring Hawk Elementary; one middle school, Castle Rock Middle School; and Castle View High School.

The Meadows has sophisticated architecture and distinctive yet charming neighborhoods. Trails, parks, community amenities and breathtaking views are only some of the many "Colorado Living" experiences associated with living in this amazing part of Colorado.

Nearby Franktown Elementary is ranked as Douglas County's No. 1 public school. The school has a small student/teacher ratio that has resulted in higher test scores. In a statewide ranking of schools, Franktown finished 21st out of 834 schools.

Douglas County secondary schools are among the best in the state, according to state rankings. Douglas County High School has had great standardized test results over the years, ranking the school as one of Colorado's top performing high schools. DCHS focuses on its community, embracing individual growth, collaborative spirit, intellectual curiosity, creativity and lifelong learning skills. They also provide diverse and challenging opportunities in an atmosphere that fosters mutual respect and support.

If you want to live in a place with a small-town feel, but close access to the city; a place with an excellent school system and top-of-the-line educational facilities; and if you want to live in a place where your indoor lifestyle is luxurious and your outdoor lifestyle is adventurous, you should consider moving to Castle Rock, a convenient drive to downtown Denver or Colorado Springs.

SOURCES
Town of Castle Rock Home http://www.crgov.com/
New Homes Colorado, The Meadows http://www.meadowscastlerock.com/explore
Douglas County Rankings http://www.psk12.com/rating/USindivphp/SchID_65564_year_2007.html

Written by: Celin Childs

Choosing a City

There are several prosperous cities in Colorado, each of which offers unique features and history. You might be bound by a job to move to a particular city or metropolitan area, but if you have a choice, it pays to get a feel of each location's individual culture before you make a decision.

Castle Rock, for example, is one of Colorado's most beautiful historical cities, and is now a quiet, peaceful town of just over 45,000 residents. Since Castle Rock is located midway between Colorado Springs and Denver, it is uniquely positioned to offer commuters the best of both worlds.

Housing developments in Castle Rock, such as The Meadows, provide seniors, families and young professionals who relocate to Colorado with safe communities in which to make friends, find new hobbies and explore new territory. The Meadows has several parks for both children and adults, a cultural arts center for gatherings and special occasions, and is close to the Denver Tech Center, a major employment area.

Castle Rock also has a free public transportation service called the Clean Air Shuttle, which runs every day from around 7 a.m. until just before 6 p.m. This is an excellent service for commuters who relocate to Colorado and would rather choose an environmentally friendly way to travel.

Choosing a Home

When you relocate to Colorado, you will find that there are many options for housing. You might want to rent a home for a few months until you make your decision, though it is often best to start home-shopping right away.

If you would like to buy a brand new home when you relocate to Colorado, look first at neighborhoods and housing developments, such as those in Castle Rock, where many of the homes are already finished. This way, you can buy one of the less-expensive options and let the other houses in the community elevate its value.

For pre-owned homes in Colorado, it is important to ensure you will be comfortable and happy living with your neighbors. Check to see that they maintain their properties and abide by the covenant rules and restrictions.

Investigating School Districts

If you have children, schools will be just as important to you as public transportation when you relocate to Colorado. Fortunately, the schools in cities like Castle Rock continue to score high on reports and evaluations, ensuring a positive, effective education for your children.

Schools that serve The Meadows, for example, include Castle View High School, Castle Rock Middle School and Soaring Hawk Elementary. These are excellent schools in relatively new buildings with extraordinary athletic and academic programs.

Indeed, according to the The Denver Post, Soaring Hawk Elementary boasts 97.9 percent enrollment stability and an average teacher experience of 11 years.

Establishing Residency

When you relocate to Colorado, you will need to set up your utilities, register your car, change your driver's license and find all the necessary conveniences. Fortunately, accomplishing these goals is not difficult and you should be able to set everything up in a matter of days.

The utilities department in Castle Rock, for example, is centrally located. The municipal court at Second and Perry is where you can take care of legal obligations, such as your car's tags, and town hall is located on North Wilcox Street. You will find similar set-ups in other Colorado cities.

You don't have to stress out before you relocate to Colorado, and you might find this is the best decision you've ever made. Fresh, clean air combined with beautiful views and convenient residential areas make this the perfect destination for families, professionals, seniors and everyone else.

Written by: Steve Thompson

The state's gross domestic product has continued to increase each year from 2003 ($187 billion) to 2007 ($236 billion), according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis. The BEA's March 2009 report showed that U.S. personal income growth slowed to 3.9 percent in 2008 while Colorado's personal income increased 4.9 percent from 2007 to 2008 (10^th in the nation), and the state's population increased 2 percent, making it the fifth most popular destination for movers.

A state once heavily reliant on mining and agriculture as a prime source of income has become a vital center for cutting-edge technology companies, oil production, military and federal installations, lucrative sports franchises, energy-efficient companies, and the ever-booming tourist trade. Colorado often has been the place where entrepreneurs and new businesses have planted their seeds. In August 2008, the Danish company Vestas committed $700 million to build the world's largest wind tower manufacturing plant in Colorado, an act that Gov. Bill Ritter claims will create as many as 2,500 jobs.

The Denver Tech Center (DTC) is located in the south Denver metro area. It is one of the key economic areas in the American West and was a major player in the birth of cable television. The DTC's unique location on the 105^th degree meridian makes it a prime place for sending and receiving television programming. Jones Intercable, Starz, DirectTV and several other companies have located here for their operations. By 2003, Colorado ranked fourth in states for high-tech exports, fifth in software publishers, seventh in computers and peripheral equipment manufacturing, and ninth in engineering services employment.

The DTC and downtown Denver are easily reached by Interstate 25. The new and very popular light rail system runs north and south along I-25 as well as Santa Fe Boulevard. Beautiful communities line the southern I-25 traveling corridor, including Greenwood Village, Castle Rock and Colorado Springs. Developments such as The Meadows offer country settings while still being within a quick commute to Denver or Colorado Springs.

Gov. Ritter has shown interest in helping the state become one of the leaders in green technologies and "clean tech" while wooing companies like Apple, Oracle, T-Mobile and Intel to become more active in Colorado's bright economic future. Several pieces of legislation have been passed that will help support companies interested in developing solar panels in new housing developments and small-scale renewable energy production. Numerous companies and groups have been recently developed to help empower green technologies, like the Colorado Green Tech Group, as well as Boulder's Namaste Solar, Sunflower Corp. (public lighting systems) and Hybrids Plus (electric hybrid research and development).

In February 2009, Namaste Solar's Blake Jones gave President Obama and Vice President Joe Biden a tour of the 18 rows of solar panels on the roof of the Denver Museum of Natural History. Jones noted that the panels generated enough solar energy to power 30 homes. The Solar Energy Industries Association expects the creation of 120,000 new solar industry jobs in the next two years.

The Front Range of the Rockies offers some of the finest universities in the country, with three campuses of the University of Colorado (Boulder, Denver and Colorado Springs) along with Colorado State University (Fort Collins), the University of Denver, and Colorado Springs-based Colorado College and Air Force Academy. The east Denver area has the University of Colorado's Health Science Center, which has 3.4 million square feet of education, patient care and research space.

Colorado's weather features 300-plus days of sunshine and its people rank as some of the healthiest and best educated in the nation. Vacation resorts within Colorado are world-renowned, including the Broadmoor as well as the skiing resorts at Aspen, Vail, Keystone and Winter Park, among others. The diverse climate and terrain allows residents to enjoy skiing, golf and just about every kind of outdoor sport and activity imaginable.

SOURCES

Bureau of Economic Analysis

Fifty States Web site

Sherry, Alison. "We are Making the American Landscape," Denver Post, Feb., 17, 2009.

Wingfield, Brian. "Green and Golden in Colorado," Forbes, August, 2008.

Wang, Ulia. "Namaste Solar Becomes Poster Child for Economic Recovery," Green Tech Media.

Written by: John S. Craig

Castle Rock is perfectly situated in the East Plum Creek Valley and conveniently located between Denver, the state's capital to the north, and Colorado Springs, one of the state's other large cities, to the south. Castle Rock is known for its gorgeous climate and 300 days of sunshine per year, as with most Colorado locations.

Some of the best features of Castle Rock are its amazing outdoor amenities, including open space, parks and hiking trails. The town currently has 17 lavish parks and 250 acres of community parklands. Rhyolite Regional Park, one of Castle Rock's newest parks, is definitely a wonderful addition to Castle Rock's parks and recreation amenities. Rhyolite includes a large playground, native surface trails, as well as concrete trails, synthetic turf, picnic areas and two small pavilions. Not enough for you? How about a multi-use court for basketball, inline skating and tennis?

Castle Rock is home to one of Colorado's best shopping facilities. The Outlets at Castle Rock houses some of the most popular brand-named merchandise. It draws Coloradans and out-of-towners from miles around to take advantage of its great deals and convenient location right off of Interstate 25.

Housing in Castle Rock is also another reason why this town is the ideal place to live. Beautiful new communities, including The Meadows, are springing up all over town. The master-planned community collaborated with several selected home builders to design charming yet distinctive neighborhoods, according to its Web site. With prices ranging from the upper $160,000s to the mid-$600,000s, these homes are gorgeous with their own unique floor plans and exquisite architectural styles.

The Meadows is built around some of Douglas County's best public schools, communities and outdoor trails and parks, making The Meadows an ideal home for families who want to live the ultimate Colorado Experience.

The average house in Castle Rock ranges from around $307,000, with average yearly property taxes around $2,434. Due to the fact that Castle Rock is an amazing Colorado location, homes in town have great resale values, even despite the economic downturn.

People are living in Castle Rock because it is more than just another Colorado town; it is absolutely breathtaking, intriguing and fascinating. From easy access to some of the state's best outdoor amenities, to the amazing inviting small-town feel, anyone choosing to relocate to Castle Rock will not regret it. Imagine a new lifestyle filled with the luxury of a beautiful home, excellent school system and the adventure of mountain trails and amazing mountain views. The choice is ultimately up to you!

SOURCES
Town of Castle Rock Home http://www.crgov.com/
New Homes Colorado, The Meadows http://www.meadowscastlerock.com/explore
Douglas County Rankings http://www.psk12.com/rating/USindivphp/SchID_65564_year_2007.html

Written by: Celin Childs

The Denver metro area has avoided the deep housing market slump that has plagued other cities across the country. The growing metropolitan area remains an attractive area for a home purchase. Experts say the current market is a prime time to buy, and that housing values will increase significantly in coming years.

In particular, the northern and southern Denver suburbs are hot markets. Both Fort Collins and Colorado Springs are growing, and some expect to see one large metropolitan corridor of population and development stretching across much of the state within decades.

Such growth will put Castle Rock at the heart of the action, along with other upscale neighborhoods in Castle Pines and Larkspur. Castle Rock is already a gem in an attractive metro area. The city is close to both the Denver Tech Center and downtown Denver. It is growing while maintaining an individual small-town feel, great open space and excellent schools.

As some of Denver's older central suburbs grow more dense, they are losing an individual feel and becoming faceless bedroom communities. While they enjoy the mild climate and beautiful views of the Front Range mountains, some are encroaching on their open space opportunities.

Meanwhile, Castle Rock enjoys 140 years of history, but only recent and controlled population growth. The town was first settled as a railroad stop and small mining center in the 1870s.

Today, the Castle Rock area is booming, with an estimated 93 percent population growth since 2000, according to City-Data.com. In that time, the median home value has increased from $184,000 to $262,000. The market in this mid-priced range is moving quickly, according to area real estate agents, particularly in towns in the south metro area.

Castle Rock is drawing new residents with open space, trails and parks. The new centerpiece of Castle Rock open space is the Hidden Mesa open space, where four miles of trails opened in 2006. Home to pronghorn, deer and elk, the park preserves wildlife corridors. It also preserves the boundaries of Castle Rock's southern edge. It provides a buffer from nearby Franktown and promises a beautiful expansive natural area for decades to come. For home-buyers, it also ensures increasing home values in Castle Rock as it limits potential southern sprawl.

The Meadows community is another outdoors-focused gem in Castle Rock. The community covers 4,000 acres, and more than 1,000 are preserved as open space. Plenty of animals can wander through the neighborhood as all the open space maintains critical wildlife corridors.

Between the parks, trails and paths separate homes and provide access to community centers and schools. A medical center and shopping area are also coming to The Meadows, which will also increase home values in coming years.

Schools are another key attraction in Castle Rock. The city is in the growing, highly rated Douglas County School District, where students consistently score above the state average in every subject at every grade level on state assessment tests. Five new schools opened in the 2008-09 school year, and the district maintains strong funding.

Written by: Steve Graham

Information is Power

When choosing to move to a new community, subscribe to the local newspaper. Newspapers often carry information on the local school board meetings, school information, school sports and other school news. Most local newspapers also have a community feature and education section. By reading the education news, features and reader comments, you can begin to develop a good picture of the local schools.

The local school districts should also have Web sites and possibly even a school newspaper. Reading a district's and school's Web site before you move can help you get a sense of the types of activities a school hosts, important dates and times for school decisions, as well as any specific challenges a school might be facing. Often, the information found on a school district or school Web site provides excellent insight into the pride the school has for itself and the esteem a school has with the community. For excellent examples of what a well-designed and informative Web site should look like, check out the sites of Douglas County School District and Castle Rock Middle School.

No Child, Especially Yours, Should be Left Behind

Due in large part to the No Child Left Behind Law, states collect and analyze a tremendous amount of information about schools and school districts, and Colorado is no exception. The Colorado Department of Education collects information on every school and offers both an annual student achievement report as well as annual school accountability report cards. The report cards are particularly useful because they offer information regarding test scores, discipline, teacher experience, achievement growth and school climate. These school accountability reports are available for download from The Colorado Department of Education Web site. For an example of what a high-performing school's accountability report should look like, visit Castle View High School's Accountability Report: (Warning: PDF link). When you view the report, notice how easy it is to see that Castle View High School is a high performing school, and that many of the schools in Douglas County School District are also rated high and excellent. All schools in Colorado have an accountability report card.

Weigh Your Options

Colorado is a local control state. Local control means that school and school district policies vary greatly across the state. Many of Colorado's school districts offer "schools of choice" and "open enrollment." Schools of choice are public schools with a specific emphasis, grade levels or other specialty. While schools of choice are public and open to anyone within a school district, they often require an application process and have specific timelines or procedures for enrollment.

Open enrollment policies let students transfer or attend a school outside their geographic area. This might include a student attending a school because of a particular sport or program that is offered, or it might simply be because of parental preference. Regardless of the reason, school districts that offer open enrollment have timelines and procedures for a parent who wants to exercise their open enrollment options.

Colorado also has tremendous support for charter and private schools. According to the Colorado League of Charter Schools, there are over 62,000 students enrolled in charter schools in Colorado. Charter schools, much like schools of choice, often have rules, applications and timelines for enrollment. If sending your child to a charter school is important to you, you must plan your transition as far in advance as possible. You don't want to let poor planning limit your options.

Talk, Visit and Interview

When you think you have made up your mind about a school, or even if you have simply narrowed down the field, it is important to visit the school, interview the school leadership, and even talk to community members about the school. When you are talking to the school staff, ask about graduation rates from the district or school, academic options for advanced learners or support for exceptional students, and any other specific concern you may have. A great resource for finding out the public perception of the school is to interview real estate agents about the school. Often a real estate agent will be a parent of a child in the local school system, and because school districts affect property values so greatly, he or she will have plenty of knowledge. Do not be afraid to show up before or after school and ask other parents about the school; when dealing with your child's education, you should do everything you can to make the right decision.

Written by: Chris Matier

Colorado is all about wildlife, clean air, limited pollution and water/energy conservation. So it's no wonder Colorado is one of the nation's top green job producers. Vestas Wind Systems has developed its first wind-blade manufacturing facility in the U.S., making Colorado's new-energy economy efforts a reality. This new energy-efficient technology is based on wind, solar and biofuel energy, not to mention a producer of about 650 new full-time jobs in Colorado. Currently Vestas Wind Systems has 200 workers and is currently hiring about 20 new workers each week.

Colorado is in an excellent position to grow in the renewable energy and energy-efficiency industries. With that being said, long-term opportunities for jobs are springing up rapidly. Brad Collins, the American Solar Energy Society's executive producer, said, "In a surprisingly short time Colorado has effectively positioned itself as a national leader in the green economy." He also said, "Colorado's experience offers a good case study for other states on how to tap into the tremendous economic opportunities in the renewable energy and energy-efficiency sectors."

Renewable energy and energy-efficiency industries are booming in today's society: $10.2 billion in revenue was generated in the year 2007, providing Colorado with 91,000 jobs. By the year 2030, Colorado expects this business to grow to an estimated $61.5 billion in annual revenue.

Some of the best locations to take advantage of these new up and coming green jobs include Denver, Colorado Springs, Windsor, Littleton and Castle Rock.

Castle Rock is conveniently located between Denver, the state's capital, and Colorado Springs, the major city in southern Colorado. This location is ideal for the person who wants to live in a gorgeous area with picturesque mountain views, access to some of Colorado's most wonderful outdoor amenities and luxurious homes, as well as, have full access to some of Colorado's top jobs.

One of the best places to live in Castle Rock, which is perfect for people who are looking to relocate to Colorado, would be The Meadows, which offers newly built unique homes within charming neighborhoods and a tight community.

Some of the best places to look for green jobs in Colorado include Web sites for Treehugger, The Denver Post, Greenjobs and Monster.

If you are seriously considering moving to one of the top green job-producing and job stable states, you have to consider moving to Colorado. The choice is up to you; this may be the best one you ever make.

SOURCES

www.Treehugger.com

www.Greenjobs.com

www.ases.org

Written by: Celin Childs

Moving to Colorado may mean never leaving. The state boasts great climate, outdoor attractions, all-season recreation and a friendly, relaxed culture.

Colorado has a reputation for great skiing and cold weather. In fact, Colorado has both the best skiing and weather in the U.S., and there's much more to the Centennial State.

First, let's talk weather. Even in January, Denver's high temperatures regularly reach the high 60s and rarely drop below the 40s. In the summer, temperatures often top out in the 80s, with cool summer evenings drawing everyone outside.

Moving to Colorado means practically living outdoors and hiking, cycling, playing sports and relaxing on patios. The lifestyle gives Colorado the nation's lowest diabetes and obesity rates. Moving to Colorado

Written by: Steve Graham

In this tough economy, Colorado may present some of the best opportunities for employment, affordable housing, and yes, even a social life.

Relocating is a daunting task for anyone, regardless of income or family size. Right now, many are moving due to job relocation or simply to find an opportunity to obtain gainful employment. It's a scary job market out there with the national unemployment average at 5.8 percent. Fortunately, Colorado may present some of the best opportunities for employment, affordable housing, and yes, even a social life.

Prime Real Estate Investments and Property in Colorado

In 2008, Colorado's average unemployment rate fell below the national average to 4.9 percent. Colorado also maintains a lucrative real estate market offering prime properties within northern and central Colorado to ranch and mountain acreage in the southern part of the state. Not to mention the vast opportunity for real estate investment, especially in Denver, which boasts thousands of potential investment properties up for foreclosure auction.

One of the most exciting communities in which to invest right now is Castle Rock, a town that feature a unique blend of small-town charm with big city amenities. Conveniently located near prime shopping opportunities at the Outlets at Castle Rock and nestled snugly between Denver and Colorado Springs, The Meadows community in particular is designed for those who want the best of both luxurious living and architecture that accentuates Colorado's own unique landscape.

Meanwhile, whether you plan to fix and flip or keep and rent, the Denver real estate investment market is prime for capital gain. This is evident with average home rentals in Denver falling around $1,700 for a three bedroom home. At these prices, Colorado real estate is a long-term investment worth looking into. Colorado property is ideal for anyone desiring to have a scenic view from any window in their home.

Colorado home rentals are pretty fetching, too, with listings in Craigslist and Rent.com. That said, beware of scams. The Denver Post featured an article in May 2008 about scam artists taking legitimate rental notices, changing the contact information, and passing them off as their own to steal money from people online. With people foreclosing on their Colorado properties. home rentals are in high demand and people can find themselves getting caught up in a scam.

Who is in Denver?

Denver is a hot spot not only for Colorado property and real estate, but also for high-income and upper-scale urban singles. According to census data, the median salary in Denver is $39,500, with a higher population of single men than women. For any woman looking to relocate, consider Denver as a viable possibility to find young (35 and under) single males moving up the economic ladder.

Colorado's economy is still chugging along during this economic downturn, with opportunities for jobs and real estate investments in abundance. However, be careful and practice due diligence when seeking out Colorado real estate and Colorado home rentals. Visit Colorado's Department of Regulatory Agencies' Division of Real Estate to find helpful tips on locating trustworthy brokers and staying abreast of scams. All in all, a move to Colorado is worth the time and effort, both economically and socially, so take a chance on the adventure.

Written by: ShawnTe Pierce

Moving to Colorado may mean never leaving. The state boasts great climate, outdoor attractions, all-season recreation and a friendly, relaxed culture.

Colorado has a reputation for great skiing and cold weather. In fact, Colorado has both the best skiing and weather in the U.S., and there's much more to the Centennial State.

First, let's talk weather. Even in January, Denver's high temperatures regularly reach the high 60s and rarely drop below the 40s. In the summer, temperatures often top out in the 80s, with cool summer evenings drawing everyone outside.

Moving to Colorado means practically living outdoors and hiking, cycling, playing sports and relaxing on patios. The lifestyle gives Colorado the nation's lowest diabetes and obesity rates. Moving to Colorado also means being here for beautiful fall drives through aspen stands, peaceful winter snowshoeing, spring skiing in T-shirts and wild summer rafting adventures.

The Denver area is teeming with parks and trails, not to mention the nearby mountains. The trails and mountains are particularly accessible from the great small towns nestled in the Denver area.

Written by Steve Graham

Many schools in Colorado are excellent, especially in the Douglas County public school district.

When considering a move to Colorado, a family has to consider the quality of public schools in Colorado. Many schools in Colorado are excellent, especially in the Douglas County public school district. If one is looking for great schools in Colorado, start by looking at GreatSchools.net. The best schools in Colorado are given a rating of 9 or 10 out of 10 in each category.

Looking at the statistics, it is important to examine the schools in Colorado based on certain criteria. One of the most important criteria is the teacher-to-student ratio. According to the National Education Association, public schools in Colorado had a student-teacher ratio of 16.9 in the 2007-2008 school year. This means that for every teacher in the school district, there were 16.9 students. When you compare this number to other states, schools in Colorado come out on top.

Another important criterion is a school's test scores. You can easily access these statistics on the Colorado Department of Education Web site.

Douglas County's statistics are comparatively higher than both Denver County and Colorado as a whole. According to the Colorado Department of Education Web site, 96 percent of high school students in Douglas County ranked "proficient" in reading and language arts, and 83 percent were ranked "proficient" in mathematics. These figures should look very encouraging to any family looking to move to Colorado. And if you settle down in a community such as The Meadows in the Douglas County town of Castle Rock, you can enjoy luxurious home life uniquely blended with the rich, natural beauty of Colorado's landscapes, thus instilling in your children a love and respect for nature that will last a lifetime. This is an education in itself.

Written by: G. Jayashanker

Colorado has some of the most diverse geography and weather in America. That means that it has some of the most varied entertainment and recreation opportunities too. In Colorado, you can ski on some of the highest peaks, go white water rafting, explore deep caves, rock climb, hike through the Rocky Mountains and more.

Colorado is filled with beautiful national and state parks including the Mesa Verde National Park, which contains Puebloan dwellings; Great Sand Dunes National Park with its 30 square miles of sprawling sand dunes; Rocky Mountain National Park and many others, each unique and spectacular in its own right.

Colorado entertainment doesn't stop with its gorgeous parks. Those bitten with the adventure bug will get their choice of physically challenging and death-defying activities. Mountaineers are constantly challenged by the vast Colorado Rocky Mountains. Not only can you test your skills by scaling the face of the Rockies during summer months but also you'll get the opportunity to ice climb.

If you are into extreme sports and recreation, Colorado is the place for you. There are miles and miles of mountain biking trails and some exciting white-water rafting opportunities, as well as hang-gliding and other adventurous recreational activities. Or for those that like more mellow outdoor entertainment, fly fishing can be just what the doctor ordered. Colorado fly fishing is some of the best in America this hundreds of quiet rivers and mountain streams.

Finally, if you want to live at the center of adventure yet still enjoy big city amenities, you'll definitely want to check out the some of the quaint Front Range communities, like the town of Castle Rock. There, halfway between Denver and Colorado Springs, you can enjoy those big city amenities while living in charming small-town surroundings. And if you settle in The Meadows community, you can enjoy luxurious living in an area that has been expertly designed to complement rather than blight Colorado's own natural beauty. Numerous trails and parks blanket the neighborhood, created specifically to take advantage of the active Colorado lifestyle.

If you're planning on moving to Colorado or just coming for a short visit, you will want to get an idea of the different recreational activities available, check out Colorado's official tourism Web site. Just remember that you will never get bored in Colorado if you enjoy being outdoors. From parks to mountains, lakes to snowy rivers, Colorado has it all.

Written by: E.A. Anne

Castle Rock Real Estate

Bedroom communities outside of Denver are thriving. If you'd like to live within driving distance of Denver but want to avoid some of the chaos, Castle Rock real estate is definitively a great choice. Trulia.com boasts diverse Colorado real estate listings in this area, from small bungalows in the low 100s to beautiful scenic villas in the high 500s.

Towns like Castle Rock are an ideal location for raising families, or for just finding a peaceful oasis in today's 24/7 world. Shopping is only a short car ride away at the Outlets at Castle Rock shopping center, and jaw-dropping views of the Rocky Mountains are always available to soothe the soul. Best of all, if you opt for a community such as The Meadows, you can enjoy the best of luxury home living in a setting that has been expertly crafted to complement Colorado's own natural beauty.

Denver Real Estate

Of course, many people enjoy the hustle and bustle of the big city. Like much of the real estate in Colorado, Denver offers both diversity and affordability, with distinct advantages for the average buyer.

Home options in Denver real estate range from modest single-family residences to apartment penthouses to quaint cottages. There are also numerous opportunities to buy real estate around the outskirts of Denver, providing a scenic backdrop of the Rocky Mountains.

Colorado Homes

Colorado real estate is rich in diversity, offering a wide selection of Colorado homes from which to choose. One story or two story, Victorian or French colonial, large backyards and easy-to-maintain town homes. You'll find a little of everything when you research real estate in Colorado.

Numerous Colorado Realtors ensure you have plenty of options, and it helps to see several houses in different price ranges and sizes to get a feel for the selection. Above all, searching for real estate in Colorado is a pleasure, and gives you an opportunity to explore the rich history of Colorado. Whether you intend to buy an existing home or build a new one, Colorado real estate continues to flourish.

Written by Steve Thompson

The Castle Rock secret took some years to discover. Castle Rock's growing population of 46,000 is more than double what the count was at the turn of the millennium. Leaders of Castle Rock say they are managing this growth to combine what they describe as a small town ambiance with big city amenities, with clean air and low crime thrown in for good measure.

Castle Rock homes are conveniently located near downtown boutiques and the giant Outlets at Castle Rock. Residents can explore some of the more luxurious Castle Rock homes or look for something more affordable. They can trust the consolidated Douglas County public schools and take the kids off to an array of Castle Rock entertainment activities on the weekends. They can even climb the age-old Castle Rock itself, via a safe access route.

Castle Rock's success story is reflected in the market for Castle Rock homes. When you examine Castle Rock homes for sale, families who are just starting off can find affordable Castle Rock homes or condos for as little as $100,000, but the average value surpasses $250,000. Furthermore, the market for Castle Rock homes priced at $800,000 and above remains vibrant.

You might think that in a community that has quickly doubled in size, housing would be hard to find. Think again. On any given day, approximately 1,700 Castle Rock homes are listed for sale. And when you want to live in the lap of luxury, check out Castle Rock communities such as The Meadows, which balances luxurious living and amenities with Colorado's own natural beauty. After all, what's the point of living in Rocky Mountain country if your home is no different than those you find from Boston to Los Angeles?

Outlets at Castle Rock features more than 120 stores with name-brand discounts up to 70 percent, drawing shoppers from Denver, Colorado Springs and beyond. There are big box and other chain stores, but small and family-owned businesses also thrive. The Castle Rock Chamber of Commerce says the community has more than 2,700 local businesses, which amounts to about one business for every 17 residents. If you have an idea for your own enterprise, more than 100 new businesses are opening their doors annually. The economy is diverse, with fewer than 10 percent of the population working in any one industry.

Castle Rock is upscale. Slightly more than half of working-age residents possess college degrees, and 18 percent possess advanced degrees. Three-quarters of the jobs in Castle Rock are white collar.

Parents with school-age children will think first of the education system before they begin looking at Castle Rock homes to move into. This is another plus. Various communities had the wisdom 50 years ago to combine their resources into the Douglas County School District, which operates more than 70 schools, with new buildings steadily under construction. Instead of a smattering of separate schools that each doing their own thing, Douglas County public schools continue to promote best practices. One example is world languages: In addition to the standard Spanish and French, parents also may enroll their children to learn Mandarin Chinese.

Outdoor activities in Castle Rock? How about average summer temperatures in the low 80s with extremely low humidity, dropping to the low 50s for evening "sleep weather?" This type of weather is great for hiking, biking and walking around town. Even in the most severe month, January, the average daytime high is in the low 40s. Yet for winter sports enthusiasts, the Rocky Mountains are right at Castle Rock's doorstep.

Castle Rock entertainment begins in the spring with the Front Range Showcase, a Chamber of Commerce event. Indeed, the showcase continues year-round in Castle Rock.

Sources:

www.crgov.com

www.outletsatcastlerock.com/info/directions.cfm

www.trulia.com/CO/Castle_Rock/

www.dcsdk12.org/portal/page/portal/DCSD

http://castlerock.org/index.asp

http://castlerock.org/employment_guide.asp?page=workforce

http://castlerock.org/relocation_guide.asp?page=relocation_information

http://castlerock.org/visitors_guide.asp?page=events#starlight

Written by Michael Thompson

Mountains Majesty

One of the most dynamic states on the map, Colorado also is one of the best places to live if you are looking for adventure, beauty, or a place to raise a family. With over 300 days of sunshine per year, the nation's largest city park, and a stunning "anytime" view of the Rocky Mountains, there isn't any wonder why moving to Colorado is something that many people do each and every year.

The Rocky Mountains are definitely one of the best parts of relocating to Colorado. You can discover a flawless view of snow-capped mountain peaks as you hike them or walk along amazing trails. Or you might enjoy slipping and sliding down those peaks on a pair of skis, snowboard or sled -- moving to Colorado could easily be one of the best moves you ever make.

Rocky Mountain visitors can enjoy a piece of bliss on their escape through the winding roads, amazing foliage, and abundance of nature. Some of the best places to visit include: Red Rocks, Pikes Peak, Rocky Mountain National Park and smaller Front Range towns such as Castle Rock. In fact, if nature is your thing, the town of Castle Rock is probably just the type of place you're after. Living there, you can take advantage of the close proximity of Denver, all while enjoying the best that small-town living has to offer. Choose a community such as The Meadows and you can enjoy the best of luxury home living in an area expertly designed to blend with Colorado's own natural beauty. And when the shopping bug hits, you're only minutes from the Outlets at Castle Rock shopping center. It doesn't get much better than that.

Anytime Skiing

What would Colorado be without skiing? If you want to experience the thrill of skiing, snowboarding and more, you have to visit some of Colorado's top ski resorts. Breckenridge, Aspen and Copper Mountain are Colorado's most action packed, snow crisp, panoramic view resorts. They are definite must sees for anyone planning on moving to Colorado.

Nuggets of Denver Life

Denver city life is absolutely intriguing. An amazing skyline, theaters, historic buildings, eateries and outdoor shopping are only some of the benefits of making downtown Denver your home. Beautiful, trendy developments are growing tremendously throughout the city, many artistically inspired.

Nestled in the heart of the city is one of Denver's main attractions: Elitch Gardens, an amusement and water park packed full of tremendous fun. On warm summer days, many of the locals congregate for a day of fun, adventure and enjoyment.

Denver not only has some of the best in entertainment and adventure, but also some of the best neighborhoods and schools. Denver's historic elements accent the true beauty of the inner city. The Five Points area located in Capital Hill Denver is one of the most diverse areas in the city, and has an extreme mix of historic and new age homes.

If you want to live in a comfortable, cozy neighborhood with plenty of sights, you will definitely want to consider moving to Littleton. This lovely city has some of Colorado's newest housing developments.

Boulder is another great place to live if you are planning on moving to Colorado. Experience the ultimate college life in a small college town. Colorado University's main campus is located in the middle of the city, and is the educational facility for many of Boulder's residents. Boulder is located about an hour outside of Denver and is one of the most hip and trendy spots in Colorado.

If an upscale lifestyle within Denver city limits is what you are looking for, you will want to consider moving to the Cherry Creek area. Cherry Creek is located right outside of Denver and is the home to some of Colorado's best schools. Amazing-yet-pricey, Cherry Creek is the place to be if you aren't a frugal spender.

Relocating to Colorado can truly be one of the best moves a person can make. When you make the move, you won't only be happy but you will be captivated!

Written by Celin Childs