Disproving The Myths Of Buying A Home (Click Picture)

Denver Metro Real Estate Update! (10/1/14)

I Am Now A Certified Military Residential Specialist

The main goal in being a Certified Military Residential Specialist is to provide a platform whereby me, as a Real Estate Professional, can be trained and equipped to handle with excellence the home purchase needs of active duty and former military clients.
Why would a real estate professional consider training to provide veterans with a more professional and positive real estate experience? One reason is this is a way to honor the men and women of the United States military and their families, for their service to our nation, and to fulfill the obligation we have to each and every one of these heroes for the freedoms we enjoy.
Another reason is that the men and women of the military are often a “targeted population” with some businesses cheating, scamming, and over-billing. Many are young, financially inexperienced, and transient, unaware of dishonest businesses. Some of the challenges faced today by active duty military are:

-Never has so long a conflict been fought by such a small percentage of Americans.
-Repeated deployments
-Higher rate of suicide
-Higher rate of divorce
-Higher rate of unemployment
-Higher rate of homelessness
-Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
-Traumatic Brain Injury
-Depression
-The invisible wounds of war  

This is an opportunity to become a “watchdog” for the warrior by pursuing excellence in serving the home purchase needs of military clients.

I am proud to say that I can provide all military personal whether individually or their families, whether past and present with the utmost care and respect that they deserve not only in a Real Estate transaction but also in daily life. It would be a privilege to assist ANY military personal in a Real Estate transaction. 

The Usual Weekly Update Here In Denver!!!

This Kid Makes Me Want To Cold Call/Door Knock Every Home Owner In Colorado

Take TWO minutes out of your day to watch this video. I know I'm going to watch this video every morning before work and after every let down that happens to me. 

All I have to say is...

WOW!

WHAT.

A.

GIFT!

SKIP TO :30 FOR THE START OF HIS SPEACH

I Have To Keep My Followers Updated!!

Weekly Market Update For Denver Metro

Been Out Of The Blogging Circle For A Bit! Sorry Folks!

DENVER MARKET UPDATE!

I was privileged to participate in a charity tournament this past weekend.

It was a great privilege and opportunity to support the Special Olympics this past weekend in a charity hockey tournament.  The tournament fees all went in support of the Special Olympics.  Also, the best part about the tourney was having special athletes participate in the games with many of the teams.  Although I was unable to get our special athletes any goals, I will say they provided plenty of assists in the game and were a great asset during the course of each game.  It was an awesome experience and I hope to partake in it again next year!

You're beginning to feel a little cramped in that home that seemed so perfect several years ago.  There just aren't enough bedrooms anymore, or adequate storage space or a big enough back yard for the kids and the dog to play.  Or Maybe there is another little one on the way - a baby, not a dog!

Many Colorado residents are facing a similar dilemma these days.  While that small bungalow or rancher made perfect sense back when you bought it, you are quickly realizing that you have outgrown your home.  The good news is that this may actually be a good time to move up to a larger home or one in a neighborhood you've been eyeing.

Up until recently, many homeowners who bought just before the peak of the housing market had little opportunity to move up to a larger home.  Many of them were "underwater" on their mortgage, meaning they owed more on their loan than the home was worth.  But that has changed in the past couple of years.

The number of homeowners who are seriously underwater on their mortgage, meaning their debt exceeds their home value by 25% or more, has fallen since the recession, according to housing data firm RealtyTrac.  The number dropped to just 17% nationwide in the first quarter of 2014, down from 26% a year ago.  That statistic indicates that more homeowners may be able to pull equity of their properties to move up to another home.

With home prices in Colorado steadily rising, there's a good chance your home is worth more than you think. 

Getting into a larger home isn't the only reason homeowners typically think about moving.  Others consider "trading spaces" because of job re-locations or a desire to get into a certain school district or simply because they've been pining after that dream home in a nicer neighborhood.  Others may actually be thinking about downsizing as they enter retirement or leaving the area for a retirement destination elsewhere.

If you've been kicking around the idea of moving up, downsizing or simply trading spaces, there are several reasons why the current housing market may work in your favor right now:

• Entry-level homes are in greater demand.  One of the hottest segments of the housing market has been low to mid-priced homes in many communities.  Well-qualified first-time buyers and others are out there looking for a home while interest rates are still historically low and prices are relatively affordable.  In some areas, there are multiple offers for the best properties

• Inventory is still low. The number of homes on the market remains very low by historical standards.  While there's no shortage of buyers these days, there certainly is a shortage of good home listings for them to pick from in many areas.  The law of supply and demand may work in your favor. 

• Mortgage rates are still near historic lows.  Low rates help make homes more affordable - including yours and the home you want to move up to.  With 30-year fixed rate mortgages still hovering in the low 4% range, buyers can stretch their housing dollars a lot further these days.

Making the decision to move up to a larger home is just the beginning, of course.  There are a myriad of issues that go into selling your exiting home and getting into a move-up property that's just right for you.  That's where a professional Realtor® can help.  Working with a seasoned agent who knows your market may be the best move you ever make. 

GIVE ME A CALL OR SEND ME AND EMAIL AND WE'LL GET STARTED TODAY!!!

Weekly Denver Market Update

When To Do It Your Self; When To Hire A Pro

Hiring A Color Consultant

Problem:  You'd like to spruce up your house, but you can't seem to find the right red paint to complement your olive green couch. 

Enter:  The color consultant.  He/She can help you select colors that work for your space and spare you from testing 15 different reds on your walls.  She can also lead you to unexpected, possibly more daring choices.

Cost: Around $50 to $75 an hour (enough time to pick colors for two rooms).

To Find One: Contact the International Association of Color Consultants/Designers and iaccna.org

Consider Doing It Yourself When: You have the time and the inclination to sort through paint chips and design magazines for inspiration.  For ideas, try Choosing Colors, by Kevin McCloud ($25, amazon.com)

Hiring A Carpenter

Problem: Your bookcases are buckling under their heavy load.

Enter: The carpenter.  A professional knows exactly what to do, from choosing the right veneer to finding the proper wall studs that will prevent it all from crashing down.

Cost: Varies considerably.  Count on spending at least a few hundred dollars for multilevel shelves.

To Find One: Ask friends and neighbors for referrals, or contact your local building association at the National Association of Home Builders' website (nahb.org)

Consider Doing It Yourself When: You relish the chance to act as a handyman and break out your power drill.  Find a kit with instructions and hardware at a home-improvement or hardware store. 

Consulting an Energy Auditor

Problem:  Your energy bill has gone through the roof, and you still feel a chill.

Enter: The energy auditor or rater.  These pros come armed with sophisticated equipment to trace even tiny air leaks and will prioritize problem areas in your home.  Some local utility companies will send a contractor to you for a free basic inspection.

Cost: Zero to $350.

To Find One: Check out energystar.gov or the Residential Energy Services Network at natresnet.org for a certified rater.

Consider Doing It Yourself When: You want to know your house from the insulation out.  Check you local utility company's website.  Many have relatively easy instructions for D.I.Y. energy audits.  Or see the U.S. Department eere.energy.gov.

Selling On eBay

Problem: Your china cabinet is full of unused mint-condition heirlooms.

Enter: The eBay drop-off store.  These independently owned stores handle everything from photographing to shipping.  Stores known as Power Sellers, such as iSold It, may fetch a higher price than you can, and there's usually no charge if an item doesn't sell.

Cost: A commission of up to 35% of the sale.

To Find One: Go to i-soldit.com for stores, or look under Consignment Services at auctionbytes.com.

Consider Doing It Yourself When: You are comfortable uploading digital pictures and have time to pack and ship the goods.  Setting up an eBay account and posting a picture is free.  If you sell, eBay keeps a commission of 5.25% to 1.5% of the sale, depending on the selling price.

Cleaning Your House

Problem: Despite your best efforts, your house always seems to be a disaster zone.

Enter: The house cleaner.  One person or a whole crew will do the dirty work for you, whether it's a weekly visit or a job every few months-all in a couple of hours.

Cost: $80 to $400 a visit, ranging from maintenance to a deep cleaning.

To Find One: Ask friends for referrals, or try the National Cleaning Directory (cpimembership.com).

Consider Doing It Yourself When: You're picky about where you stash Bobby's toys.  It may take a bit longer to get the job done, but you'll have the peace of mind of knowing what's where.

Finding Carpet, Upholstery and Curtain Cleaners

Problem: Your carpet is stained, and your upholstery and curtains are looking dingy enough to darken anyone's mood.

Enter: Curtain, upholstery, and carpet cleaners.  They'll work with heavy equipment and cleaning solvents for a deep cleaning that will extend the life of your home's fabrics.

Cost: About 25 cents a square foot for curtains, $12 to $25 a linear foot for upholstery, and 30 cents a square foot for carpets.

To Find One: Ask around, or look up Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning in the Yellow Pages.

Consider Doing It Yourself When: It's a small job, the stains are minor, or it's an in-between maintenance job.  For less risk of permanent damage, know the type of fiber and stains you're dealing with.  

Restyling a Room

Problem: You have a living room full of lovely furniture, but the arrangement isn't working.

Enter: The professional restyler.  Also called re-decorators and interior refiners, restylers will pop into your home, look at what you've got, and rearrange it, giving your old furniture new life.

Cost: $200 to $350 a room.

To Find One: The Interior Redecorators Network (interiorredecorators.com) has a directory of local restylers.

Consider Doing It Yourself When: You want to learn the tricks of the styling trade.  One book you might want to consult is Home Therapy (Perigree, $20, amazon.com), by Lauri Ward.

Handling A Computer Snafu

Problem: Your home computer has taken mutiny to a whole new level.

Enter: The home-technology consultant.  A pro will save you time on tasks like setting up a computer and rescuing a hard-drive crash and make all systems go by the end of setup.

Cost: $100 to $250 a visit.

To Find One: Find a tech specialist nationwide at Best Buy stores or geeksquad.com, or servicemagic.com.

Consider Doing It Yourself When: You have a knack for technology and aren't intimidated by the jungle of wires inside your machine's guts.  For live troubleshooting help, call a manufPacturer's 800 number and be prepared for a wait and perhaps a fee.

Selling Your Home

Problem: You have been living in a neighborhood for many years and it get's re-zoned for fraternity and/or sorority housing at your nearby college.

Enter: The Real Estate Professional.  A pro will come in and evaluate your home for what it is TRULY worth on the market.  The pro's job is to make sure you net as much profit from the sale of the home, also to make sure that the process goes smoothly with as little hiccups as possible while also keeping you out of harms way of the huge liability that could come with selling your home.

Cost: Average is 6% of your sale price.  But remember the agent selling your home NEVER sees the full 6% in his/her pockets.  That cost is immediately split with the other agent that brings a buyer, or in almost all cases if your agent brings a buyer of their own, the agent will most likely cut their commission appropriately. 

To Find One: If you are in the Denver Metro Area visit www.coloradohomes.com/juliantalavera.  If you are elsewhere in the country or the state of Colorado ALWAYS visit realtor.com or coldwellbanker.com

Consider Doing It Yourself When: NEVER! You do not want to deal with what could be a nightmare of liability issues. Lawsuits are a common thing in today's day and age and you could not only risk losing your would-be equity, but also much MUCH more! 

16 Cool Things You Can Do On The Internet For Free!!! (Click Picture)

Pretty Interesting Post About The Financial Benefits Of Buying A Home (Click Picture)

Weekly Market Update!

Denver Real Estate Market Update!

Market Update for Denver!!!

You Know What's Up! Weekly Market Update!

Denver Market Update, Folks!

Can It Be Safe To Say That The Avs Are Going To Win Tonight?

Nothing is more intense than Game 7...Except when the Colorado Avalanche are playing at the greatest barn (hockey lingo for an ice arena) in the entire NHL! Can we all rally behind Gabe Landeskog, Matt Duchene, Ryan O'Reilly, and my personal favorite (I'm slightly biased...you know...being a goalie n' all) Semyon Varlamov! 

In my experience watching/playing hockey my whole life I will say that it's going to come down to Varly playing out of his mind and don't forget we're also going to need big games out of our stars tonight (those mentioned above).  

So if you're not doing anything tonight I suggest you turn it to Altitude Sports on your T.V. @ 7:30 PM...Or if you're not in Colorado turn it on to what I'm pretty sure will be CNBC in your respective time zone!

JOIN ME TONIGHT AND ROOT FOR THE GREATEST HOCKEY TEAM TO EVER GRACE THIS EARTH!!

Anybody Doing The Spartan Race This Weekend?!

I'll be there! I don't know how good I'll be, but I'll be trying! Look for me there! 

Sorry Folks! I Forgot To Post Last Week's Market Update! Here's This Week's Though!

Weekly Market Update!

HAHAHAH!!! This is how I do my business! (JOKE)

Weekly Market Update!

Sorry To Be Blunt. But If Your Home Isn't Selling, Maybe It's Because Of One Of These Five "Turn-Offs"

The Five Biggest Turn-Offs For Homebuyers

A lot of sellers don't listen to their real estate agents, so I'm just going to be blunt and hopefully help your agents out, and help the process of selling your home go smooth. First of all, your agent can't get you the price you want unless your home is in pristine move-in condition.  That means no sticking drawers in the kitchen.  No leaning fences.  No rust-stained plumbing fixtures.  I could go on, but maybe I need to make it clear.  If you have even one of the following "turn-offs," your home won't sell.

Buyers can get instantly turned off.  Here are their five biggest turn-offs:

Overpricing Your Home

Overpricing your home is like trying to crash the country club without a membership.  You'll be found out and escorted out.  If you ignored your agent's advice and listed at a higher price than recommended, you're going to get some negative feedback from buyers.  The worst feedback, of course, is silence.  That could include no showings and no offers.  The problem with overpricing your home is that the buyers who are qualified to buy your home won't see it because they're shopping in a lower price range.  The buyers who do will quickly realize that there are other homes in the same price range that offer more value. 

Smells

Smells can come from a number of sources:  pets, lack of cleanliness, stale air, water damage,  and much more.  You may not even notice it, but your real estate agent may have hinted to you that something needs to be done.  There's not a buyer in the world that will buy a home that smells unless they're investors looking for  a bargain.  Even so, they'll get a forensic inspection to find out the source of the smells.  If they find anything like undisclosed water damage, or pet urine under the "new" carpet, then they will either severely discount their offer or walk away.  

Clutter

If your tables are full to the edge with photos, figurines, mail, and drinking glasses, buyers' attention is going to be more focused on running the gauntlet of your living room without breaking any hummels rather than considering your home for purchase.  Too much furniture confuses the eye and it makes it really difficult for buyers to see the proportions of rooms.  If they can't see what they need to know, they move on to the next home.  

Deferred Maintenance

Deferred maintenance is a polite euphemism for letting your home fall apart.  Just like people age due to the effects of the sun, wind, and gravity, so do structures like your home.  Things wear out, break, and weather, and it's your job as a homeowner to keep your home repaired.  Your buyers really want a home that's been well-maintained.  They don't want to wonder what needs to be fixed next or how much it will cost.  

Dated Decor

The reason people are looking at your home instead of buying brand new is because of cost and location.  They want your neighborhood, but that doesn't mean they want a dated-looking home.  Just like they want a home in good repair, they want a home that looks updated, even if it's from a different era.  Harvest gold and avocado green from the 70's; soft blues and mauves from the 80's, jewel tones from the 90's, and onyx and pewter from the oughts are all colorways that can date your home.  When you're behind the times, buyers don't want to join you.  They want to be perceived as savvy and cool. 

In conclusion, the market is a brutal mirror.  If you're guilty of not putting money into your home because you believe it's an investment that others should pay you to profit, you're in for a rude awakening.  You'll be stuck with an asset that isn't selling. 

When You And Your Agent (Hopefully Me) Are Pricing Your Home, Think Objectively

The Concept of what adds "value" to a home is objective.

One buyer may place a high value on a pool while another may see that as a reason to eliminate the home from consideration.  Price and cost does not always equal value, and there can be any number of reasons why that's the case.  

The most common reasons reinforce a basic truth found in all real estate:  This is not an exact science, and a number of variables (especially the motivations and desires of buyers and sellers) can be very difficult to account for.  While data analysis provides a benchmark for value trends in an area, that data must be blended with the variables present in each situation.  

"Value in use" has a number of real estate-specific definitions.  It also has a much simpler real world residential application...does the home suit a specific requirement of the present owner or buyer?

There are a myriad of simple examples:  A master on the main, an in-law suite, a single-story home or a handicapped-accessible floor plan.  Occasionally, a setting or location appeal can be the impetus; views, lot appeal, schools or proximity to mass transit.  Quality of construction and design, craftsmanship and similar upgrades can also increase appeal. 

There's no shortage of people willing to "pay more" to live in a desirable school district, or for a home with certain design features.  The question of what a home is "worth" really has two answers:  what the data indicates, and what role it serves for the person who lives in it, whether it's the present owner or the buyer. 

The challenge comes when trying to reconcile the hard data that appraisers rely on with those intangible or specific appealing features a buyer values.  This is often the basis for appraisal issues, especially in a lending environment with hyper-underwriting processes.

Challenging an appraisal in a situation like this can be difficult;  underwriters don't typically like to think outside of the box.  In some cases, this can also undermine the confidence of the buyer if potential appraisal problems are not detailed to a buyer or seller.

While a home may contain highly desirable features, the problem of functional obsolescence due to over improvement may be a genuine concern.  There can be instances of properties with features so unique that their cost is not close to supported by the local data.

While some buyers or occupants may still find a home like this appealing, they might be considered "white elephants" because they are so uniquely equipped.  That could become a headache for both sides when it's time to sell. 

Most place a high value on garages.  A two-car garage is nice.  For some, space for three or four cars is better still.  But what about six?  What about a garage equipped with a lift system that allows for cars to be stacked in a garage?  Or a garage with a "pit" allows access to work on vehicles from below?  Is a cavernous garage that's tall enough to accommodate an RV or fishing boat worth the expense?  For select buyers, these might be "must-haves."  For others, they may be features that cannot be justified with a higher price.

Outdoor improvements like pools and barbecues routinely enhance appeal, especially in warmer markets.  How much will the market recognize pool features like gunite and pebbletech instead of vinyl?  What about hot tubs, waterfalls, and vanishing edge designs?  What's more desirable: salt water or chlorine?  Will the market pay more for a fully equipped outdoor kitchen with high-end appliances, media and audio systems, and fire pits or fireplaces featuring real stone or brick?  What about uniquely designed and constructed walks, walls and landscaping?  Does something like this, especially if a community has a pool and recreational facilities, return the cost of installation and maintenance when offered for sale?

Another example seen more and more is the trend toward athletic equipment in homes, in some cases rivaling what's found a professional gyms and training facilities.  There are homes with full-sized indoor batting cages, complete with pitching machines and netting, homes with racquetball and basketball courts, bowling alleys and even shooting ranges.  

Indoor pools are not nearly as unique as they once were, nor are full-sized gyms with professional-grade equipment.  While many buyers might enjoy a gym or target shooting, how many want them in their home, and are willing to pay extra for them?

Some homes serve a general purpose for a limited time.  Others serve a specific role that may last for many years.  Real estate is a highly personal business and there are an infinite number of variables at play.  But answering the question of "Does this home work for me?" is the most important one to control.  

That answer, the "value in use" to the occupant, may not be supported by the market data.  Which is why an understanding of these terms is so important when making sound real estate decisions. 

This is directly taken from Hank Miller, from http://www.inman.com/2014/03/31/the-concept-of-what-adds-value-to-a-home-is-subjective-at-best/

Interesting. Your GPA Could Effect Your Income.

Join Fellow Pet Owners For The Denver Furry Scurry!

An Increase In Home Prices As Well As An Increase In Home Inventory

Realtor.com released its February Monthly Housing Trend Report, which showed an increase in listing prices as well as an increase of housing inventory. The increase in both list price as well as inventory points to a "strong early beginning to this spring's home buying season," the report said.

Nationally, median listing price increased to $199,000, year-over year. The gain of median listing price represents a 7.6 percent increase from the previous year, and is up 2.05 percent from the previous month

"Overall these figures indicate a continued reinforcement of steady gains and market stabilization that we've been watching since late last summer," said Steve Berkowitz, CEO of Move, Inc.

Posting a decrease by 0.9 percent from the previous month, the median age of inventory shrunk slightly to 114 days.

The report found that inventory increased by 10.1 percent nationally year-over-year, with total listings of approximately 1.7 million.

"Seller confidence is the factor to watch as we head into the spring home buying season, and these are very encouraging indicators–not only are more homes coming onto the market, but typically we don’t see a rise in asking prices this early into the year. This is the market these sellers have been waiting for," Berkowitz added.

The top five metros for median list price all reside in California: San Francisco ($849,000); Santa Barbara-Santa Maria-Lompoc ($700,000); San Jose ($669,000); Orange County ($599,900); and Ventura ($523,950).

Chicago, Illinois topped the list with the most total listings at 45,998, followed by Atlanta, Georgia (34,045); Phoenix-Mesa, Arizona (23,654); Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (21,909); and Riverside-San Bernardino, California (21,221).

(This information was taken from http://dsnews.com/february-gains-point-seller-optimism/?Uid=1234928628&MessageType=E) 

Weekly Market Update for the Denver Metro Area!!!


(REMEMBER, I CAN DO CUSTOM UPDATES FOR YOUR MARKET, NEIGHBORHOOD, TOWN, ETC....)

Open House 3/16/14

I'm holding an open house tomorrow! (3/16/14) 

In Lakewood, in Belmar!

Come say hi! 448 S. Reed St. 

Weekly Market Update for Denver! 03/14/2014

Just gonna Update y'all on my market here in Denver! No one knows my city like I know my city. :)

Buying a home is 43% cheaper than renting in Denver!!

This is a good read.  It shows how ridiculous the renting market is and how awesome the buying market is.  Call me! I'll make sure you get taken care of when purchasing a home!

Do You Know Why Buying A Home Is Cheaper Than Renting?

One More...I Am Taken By This Charity...Absolutely Amazing.

Sorry Folks...but this charity is amazing.  I hope my blog helps their cause. 

The following is taken directly from their website:  http://www.dawgnationhockey.org/

In 2003, a group of guys from all walks of life got together and wanted to try their hand at beer league hockey. They formed a team called the Junkyard Dawgs, and set themselves up at the Edge Ice Arena in Littleton, Colorado. This was not a particularly good team, by the way. But win or lose, they'd enthusiastically show up every week, play some hockey, drink some beer in the parking lot, and as time went on, became a small family.

In a short time, it became pretty well known that the Dawgs were a great team to be on, and the line started forming to become part of the "family". In fact, there was so much interest; the team was able to split into two complete squads. There was Dawgs I, who would feature a lot of the younger players and play in a higher division, and Dawgs II, which would play in the next level down.

In the past four seasons our "small family" has blossomed into one of the largest adult hockey organizations in the region. We have become Dawg Nation. We're now up to six teams, and over 80 players, ranging in age from teens to veterans in their sixties. And we've finally achieved some success, winning eight league championships and several tournaments in that time frame. Through it all, we have stayed a very tight knit group, supporting each other during our wins and losses.

There has also been great support from our group during activities outside of hockey. For example, the brother of one of our players began a career in mixed martial arts, and there would always be a large group of Dawgs, all wearing their jerseys, attending his fights. That is just one of many stories that show how close we are, and how much we care about our members.

There have been many happy events, such as parties, weddings and births, which have brought The Nation together. Unfortunately, there have been far too many tragedies that have tested the character of our organization, and subsequently brought us even closer together. During the past several years, we have had several bouts with cancer, a hockey accident that threatens to permanently cripple one of our players, and we even lost one of our families to a devastating disease in 2010.

Whenever something bad happens, that player and his family can always count on Dawg Nation to rally behind them. Whether it be in the form of an email, or maybe a gift card, or even some needed financial help, all that a Dawg needs to do is look over his shoulder, and he'll see his other family standing right there with him.

And now we have formed the Dawg Nation Hockey Foundation, that will not only help our own, but will also reach out to assist other hockey players who have been injured, or are battling serious medical problems. Through various fundraisers, we will do everything we can to help, because we all know that sometimes a small group of people can make a huge difference.

How many other beer league teams are like this? We would sure like to think we're a pretty unique bunch of men and women, and we could not be more proud. We have evolved into so much more than just a hockey team. We're about community and family.

We are Dawg Nation.

Join Dawg Nation For A Night Of Laughs. "Stand-Up for DAWG Nation"

A Charity That I Am Privileged To Support!

This is an amazing charity that I am absolutely proud to blog about! 

The Following is taken directly from their website: http://www.dawgnationhockey.org/

To our friends in Dawg Nation,

In January of 2011, a small group of beer league hockey players decided to begin this endeavor called the 'Dawg Nation Hockey Foundation.'  What started as an idea to honor a fallen friend and 'make a difference' has blossomed into something much, much more.

Since our inception, we have unbelievably generated well over $300,000, and more importantly, we have been able to positively impact the lives of many.  From the weekend warrior recovering from a nasty fall on the rink, to amazing acts of human kindness that have not only changed the lives of our recipients, but also our volunteers at the same time.

It has been an amazing journey so far, and absolutely could not have occurred without the countless volunteer hours of many, and the incredible generosity of many more.

If you haven't had a chance yet, please take a few minutes to check out our 'Giving Back'page. Our recipients are a very diverse group-they're men and women, and they're young and not so young. But what they all have in common is that they're part of our hockey community, and they've gone through a difficult period of their lives. Dawg Nation exists to help these people.   

And this is just the beginning! We're picking up steam- more and more people are hearing about us, and are asking how they can join our great cause.  

A huge 'thank you' to all of you that have made all this possible.  You have made, and continue to make the world a better place.

Sincerely,

Martin 'The Dawg Father' Richardson

President

Beautiful Home in Snowy Cascade, CO!!

Hey Folks!!


Check out this house that I am co-listing in Cascade, CO! 4 Beds, 2 Baths with 2,920 Square Feet!!

4645 Columbine Lane, Cascade, CO 80809

Are You Looking For A Good Burger Joint In Littleton?

Are you looking for a good burger place in Littleton??!! Look no further, Johnny Mac's off of Kipling and Bowles next to Elvis Cinemas is your new spot.  Delicious burgers, amazing french fries, and spoonless milkshakes makes Johnny Mac's a classic spot for your burger fix.  If you're going there for dinner I would recommend going early.  It is a fairly small spaced spot, but don't let that fool you, their burgers are large in taste. Did I mention you can pick up your orders?! Now I don't know about you, but I love to eat a delicious burger, and it's even better when I can do so without having to wait in line or wait at a table.  Having said that if you decide you want to chow down there at the restaurant the environment is that of a classic diner! I love give Johnny Mac's two thumbs up and it is definitely worth a try!!! 

Just Sold! 1705 E. Alameda (Washington Park)

Just Sold!

^^^^ Click Link Above ^^^^

Hardwood floors and new windows lend warmth to this 2 bedroom home. The living area is spacious and airy. The bath has had some updates with new tile floor, vanity, tub and lighting. The kitchen is small, but cute, and features a stack washer/dryer and separate pantry. The private backyard is shaded by a beautiful tree and is a blank canvas awaiting your springtime touches. The two-car garage offers additional storage as well as the ultimate parking solution.

So you don't think I lied about playing hockey...Here are some pictures....And a video of my in some tryouts!

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=392515146777&l=983025975262220633

A Little Bit Of Info So You Can Get To Know Me....

My Business Philosophy....

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To some, a home is more than just a house, it is where memories are made. It is where families grow and lives are changed. It is a place for rest, a place for joy, and a place to escape. It is more than just a material object, it is a part of one's soul. It is because of this I became a Realtor. Not only is it my pleasure to be a part of such an enormous decision, it is a privilege. If you choose to do business with me, not only will you get the utmost professionalism, but you will get pure care for what is possibly the most important financial decision in one's life.

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I am young in the real estate business, but what I may lack in experience I make up for in tenacity, diligence, and professionalism. I guarantee an absolute stellar home buying or selling experience and I will make sure that when you do business with me, you will get nothing but my best.

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A Little About Me....

I am a Colorado native. I have a true love for this state, especially the Denver area. I love sports, hockey in particular. At the age of 16 I moved out to play hockey in British Columbia. After my stunt in the great white north I spent time playing hockey all over the United States but particularly in San Diego and San Antonio before ending up with a short career at the University of Arizona in Tucson. After about two years in Tucson I decided I missed my beloved city and decided to move back home, and now I am here to stay.