Moving To Colorado Blog

There are many questions to answer when thinking about buying a new home. Here are a few important considerations.

Some people suggest buying a home as soon as possible to build equity and turn the cost of renting a home into a financially attractive mortgage. But there are important financial and personal questions you'll need to answer before buying a home.

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

Attractive real estate opportunities, a low cost of living and a high-quality lifestyle are just some of the reasons why many people are moving to Colorado. With one of the lowest state sales tax rates in the country and thriving business and commercial enterprises, Colorado attracts thousands of migrants from around the country. If you're moving to Colorado, you also can look forward to crisp mountain air and lots of sunshine in one of the country's most beautiful states.

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

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

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

One of the most dynamic states on the map, Colorado is a great place to relocate if you are looking for adventure, beauty, or a place to raise a family.

Imagine a multicolored sunset draped over the Rocky Mountains; a crystal clear view of the "mile high city," or the experience of watching a mother deer lead her family across an open field. Now imagine moving to Colorado.

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