Claire Garlick, Author at Blessings Realty | Colorado Springs and Monument Realtor

New Construction or Existing Home: Which Is Better for Your Family?

August 19, 2020 By Claire Garlick Leave a Comment

Are you in the market to buy a home? If so, then you may be trying to decide between new construction or purchasing an existing home. With your home being such a huge purchase, you need to be sure you make the best choice for your family.

Here are some things you should consider when trying to determine whether new construction or an existing home is better for your family:

Your Budget

The biggest deciding factor for many individuals is their budget. Existing homes often come with a cheaper initial price tag; however, there may also be some incentives for purchasing a new construction home that can make them more affordable in the long run.

Whether or Not You Want to Make Repairs

Existing homes usually have repairs that need to be made. Things may break more often than you think, and fixing them requires time, energy and money. Some individuals are handy and don’t mind making a few repairs here and there, while others don’t want to deal with the repairs and maintenance often associated with existing homes. Most new construction homes won’t need to have repairs made to them in the immediate future. If the home is well made, it may be years before any repairs are needed.

Future Insurance Premiums

Many individuals don’t realize that new homes tend to have lower insurance premiums. This is because they’re seen as less of a risk to insurance companies than existing homes are. It’s not uncommon for some homeowners to pay hundreds of dollars more in insurance premiums each year simply because they purchased an existing home instead of new construction.

The Importance of Energy Efficiency

Existing homes typically aren’t anywhere near as energy efficient as new construction homes, which can often lead to larger electric bills each month. There are some updates you can make to improve the energy efficiency of an existing home, but it takes more money and effort. New construction homes are usually built with the most energy-efficient materials available, which can be very beneficial to the buyer and the environment.

If you’re in the market for a home, you need to consider all of your options. This includes determining whether or not you should choose an existing home or new construction. Many choose a newly built home because they’re more energy efficient, have low insurance premiums, don’t require repairs and fit into the buyer’s budget. By keeping this all in mind, you can make the right decision when it comes to which type of home will meet your family’s needs.

Article originally published at http://blog.rismedia.com/2020/new-construction-existing-home-better/.

10 Not-to-Miss Experiences in Colorado Springs, Olympic City USA

August 19, 2020 By Claire Garlick Leave a Comment

The Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs

For quintessential Colorado beauty, high-altitude attractions and Olympic inspiration, Colorado Springs is a year-round destination with an impressive roster of outdoor, family-friendly and cultural activities.

The small but mighty counterpoint to Denver, Colorado Springs is a quick, scenic, drive away and one of visitors’ favorite destinations. Making it even more accessible, many major airlines offer direct flights to the Colorado Springs Airport, situated just minutes from downtown.

From scenic hikes to Olympic experiences and zipline adventures, there are plenty of ways to spend your time in Colorado Springs. Below you’ll find 10 of the top can’t-miss experiences in the Pikes Peak region.

And if you’re looking for a place to stay, lodging options cover all travel styles, including luxury hotels, historic properties, vacation homes, campgrounds, RV parks and cabins.

1. SEE WHERE OLYMPIC DREAMS ARE BORN AT THE COLORADO SPRINGS OLYMPIC TRAINING CENTER.

The flagship Olympic Training Center offers year-round tours of the 35-acre complex where Olympic champions and Team USA hopefuls live and train. The interactive exhibits at the newly renovated visitor center provide information and inspiration on what it takes to go for the gold. Watch a Video About Olympic City USA >>

2. GET YOUR HEART PUMPING ON THE MANITOU INCLINE.

The hike up the Manitou Incline doesn’t sound like a tough endeavor until you realize it climbs 2,000 vertical feet along 2,800 steps in just under 1 mile. You’ll follow the path of old tracks that were originally built for a cable car to transport pipeline materials. With the rails since removed, the Manitou Incline now draws hundreds of thousands of people, from Olympic athletes to those seeking a challenging trek with stunning views.

3. DISCOVER BEAUTY AND GEOLOGICAL HISTORY AT GARDEN OF THE GODS PARK.

This biological melting pot — a meeting of grasslands, woodlands and mountain forest — has been deemed a National Natural Landmark, and is also rated the No. 1 park in the U.S. in 2014 by TripAdvisor®. The towering red sandstone rock formations such as Kissing Camels, Balanced Rock and Siamese Twins, create an other-worldly setting for a low-key hike or high-intensity training. Start your adventure at the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center. The world-class Visitor & Nature Center and museum is the most visited attraction in the region with all-new interactive exhibits.

4. SOAK IN THE INSPIRATION FOR “AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL” AT PIKES PEAK.

Experience America’s Mountain in a variety of ways. Whether you choose to drive the scenic 19-mile Pikes Peak Highway or hike up Barr Trail, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the majestic Rocky Mountains and far across the “fruited plains” once you reach the 14,115-foot summit.

5. EXPLORE THE COLORADO SPRINGS FINE ARTS CENTER AT COLORADO COLLEGE’S MULTIDISCIPLINARY CULTURE.

There aren’t many places where you’ll find a nationally accredited art museum, Broadway-worthy theater, gourmet dining, retail shop and an art school all under one roof, but the Fine Arts Center encompasses just that. Traveling exhibitions, events, musicals, dramatic plays and concerts are a few of the reasons to plan a visit.

6. FIND THRILLS IN THE ROYAL GORGE REGION.

The Royal Gorge Bridge and Park is better than ever, showcasing a new visitor center and updated activities. Cross the highest suspension bridge in North America — suspended 956 feet above the Arkansas River — either on foot or Segway, plus enjoy a host of attractions like an aerial gondola ride, the iconic Water Clock and a historical expo and shows in the Plaza Theater. Adrenaline junkies can fly through the air on the Royal Rush Skycoaster, traverse the gorge via the Cloudscraper ZipRider zipline or navigate rapids below with Royal Gorge Rafting. Hop aboard the Royal Gorge Route Railroad for a 24-mile train ride winding through the gorge while enjoying local wine and a gourmet meal.

7. GO WILD AT CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN ZOO.

Experience America’s only mountain zoo, home to more than 900 animals and 200 species. Hand-feed the giraffes or elephants, visit zebra and warthogs in the Encounter Africa exhibit, and check out the new Australia Walkabout – home to alligators, wallabies and even a tree kangaroo. Ride the antique carousel and soar over the zoo on the ski-lift-style Mountaineer Sky Ride.

8. BASK IN THE SCENERY OF THE BROADMOOR’S SEVEN FALLS.

This park exhibits natural beauty and activities. The waterfalls are a sight to behold, and you can climb the 224 steps nearby to reach the stream that feeds them as well as hiking trails. For more exploration, the park’s Broadmoor Soaring Adventure course lifts you above the scenery on two thrilling zipline courses and a rope bridge above the falls. When hunger strikes, have lunch or dinner at Restaurant 1858, where prime patio seating looks out to the base of the falls.

9. SAMPLE A PINT FROM ONE OF COLORADO’S CRAFT BREWERIES.

In a state known for craft brewing, Colorado Springs is no exception. Enjoy a beer at one of the many local spots, including Great Storm Brewing, Colorado Mountain Brewery and Pikes Peak Brewing Company, where you can taste brews named for area landmarks — like the Summit House Oatmeal Stout, which gives a nod to the spot atop Pikes Peak from which you can see all the way to Kansas. Look through more breweries >>

10. FIND YOUR FITNESS ON THE AREA’S HIKING AND BIKING TRAILS.

In addition to the well-known hiking and biking trails around Pikes Peak, the Manitou Incline and Garden of the Gods, outdoor enthusiasts have their pick from a bounty of parks and trail systems, including Paint Mines Interpretive Park and Cheyenne Mountain State Park. So whether you want to be an Olympian or just train like one, find more parks and the top 25 trails in the area >>

WANT MORE?

Finalizing your travel plans? Make things easier with trip-planning resources like a free Colorado Springs vacation planner or app, and check out deals and coupons for special offers on lodging, attractions and more. The Colorado Springs Convention & Visitors Bureau also provides travel tools and event listings.

Learn More About Colorado Springs >>

Article originally published at https://www.colorado.com/articles/10-not-miss-experiences-colorado-springs.

How Is Remote Work Changing Homebuyer Needs?

August 12, 2020 By Claire Garlick Leave a Comment

With more companies figuring out how to efficiently and effectively enable their employees to work remotely (and for longer than most of us initially expected), homeowners throughout the country are re-evaluating their needs. Do I still need to live close to my company’s office building? Do I need a larger home with more office space? Would making a move to the suburbs make more sense for my family? All of these questions are on the table for many Americans as we ride the wave of the current health crisis and consider evolving homeownership needs.

According to George Ratiu, Senior Economist for realtor.com:

The ability to work remotely is expanding home shoppers’ geographic options and driving their motivation to buy, even if it means a longer commute, at least in the short term…Although it’s too early to tell what long-term impact the COVID-era of remote work will have on housing, it’s clear that the pandemic is shaping how people live and work under the same roof.

Working remotely is definitely changing how Americans spend their time at home, and also how they use their available square footage. Homeowners aren’t just looking for a room for a home office, either. The desire to have a home gym, an updated kitchen, and more space in general – indoor and outdoor – are all key factors motivating some buyers to change their home search parameters.

A recent realtor.com-HarrisX survey indicates:

In a June poll of 2,000 potential home shoppers who indicated plans to make a purchase in the next year, 63% of those currently working from home stated their potential purchase was a result of their ability to work remotely, while nearly 40% [of] that number expected to purchase a home within four to six months and 13% said changes related to pandemic fueled their interest in buying a new home.

Clearly, Americans are thinking differently about homeownership today, and through a new lens. The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) notes:

New single-family home sales jumped in June, as housing demand was supported by low interest rates, a renewed consumer focus on the importance of housing, and rising demand in lower-density markets like suburbs and exurbs.

Through these challenging times, you may have found your home becoming your office, your children’s classroom, your workout facility, and your family’s safe haven. This has quickly shifted what home truly means to many American families. More than ever, having a place to focus on professional productivity while many competing priorities (and distractions!) are knocking on your door is challenging homeowners to get creative, use space wisely, and ultimately find a place where all of these essential needs can realistically be met. In many cases, a new home is the best option.

In today’s real estate market, making a move while mortgage rates are hovering at historic lows may enable you to purchase more home for your money, just when you and your family need it most.

Bottom Line

If your personal and professional needs have changed and you’re ready to accommodate all of your family’s competing priorities, reach out to a local real estate professional today. Making a move into a larger home may be exactly what you need to set your family up for optimal long-term success.

Article originally published at https://www.keepingcurrentmatters.com/2020/08/06/how-is-remote-work-changing-homebuyer-needs/.