Featured at West + Main Highlands Square: Erin Deardorff

Join us for First Friday in Highlands Square, featuring Erin Deardorff

Natural Perspectives

3442 W 32nd Avenue
6.7.2024, 6-9pm

Meet Erin Deardorff

Life is an adventure and I love capturing the key memories along the way. My name is Erin Deardorff, and I am a photographer who discovered my passion through my adventures and desire to do something good for the world. What started as a blog to share my training and completion of a charity bike race led to a profound passion for capturing the meaningful snippets of my life. I know each action-packed or serene moment is fleeting, and I want to ensure the pause between shutter clicks is never lost. Each sale of my artwork includes a donation to support Alzheimer’s research to truly support my mission of Saving Memories by Making Memories and help us all remember the feeling of these moments even if the true memory eventually fades away. Step behind the lens with me and leave with more than a photo of worldly travels and the beauty of nature.

Learn more about Erin in our Q+A!

Who/what are your biggest influences?

My love for the great outdoors and seeing the world. I have been to almost 50 countries and by been there that requires experiencing it and not just having a layover. I enjoy sharing these amazing experiences with others.

What do you like to do outside of work?

I love to ski, bike, hike, and paddle enjoying the great outdoors with my husband and friends.

How did you arrive where you are today?

I decided to do a charity bike ride to fundraise for Alzheimer’s given my grandfather was diagnosed with it, and both my grandparents were very charitable people. While doing the ride, I created a blog to share my training and eventually that evolved into a passion for photography and capturing life’s experiences.

If you had a choice between two superpowers, being invisible or flying, which would you choose??

Flying so I could get to my next experience in the world faster!

What is the best piece of advice you have ever gotten?

Trust in yourself. It took a long time for me to get up the courage to ask about hanging my art up at different places. I wasn’t sure if they would say thanks, but no thanks, or if I would know what I was doing with all of the little details etc. After entering my first contest and placing, I garnered a spot in a mountain town art gallery for that picture and from there I grew my legs. I realized that I would never get to display and sell my art if I didn’t take the first step and ask.

What are your thoughts about your city’s creative scene for artists, designers, crafters, makers and/or small businesses?

I am lucky enough to live in Colorado and have had access to two of the most amazing art and small business areas. The first is where this show is. The Highlands in Denver is one of the most amazing communities with not only great food and shops, but also fantastic people who want to help their fellow people thrive. I have also spent a lot of time in the mountains and the people up there have encouraged me and pushed me to do many things with my photography that I never would have thought of. They look to shop local before they look elsewhere and in some cases push their friend’s businesses more than their own.

Get in touch with Erin Deardorff

Email: info@savingmemoriesbymakingmemories.com
Instagram: @savingmemoriesbymakingmemories

If you are a local artist/crafter/maker/indie business owner and would like to be featured on our blog, please fill out this form or contact Ashley at ashley@westandmainhomes.com with questions...we can't wait to learn all about you!

Just Listed: A Spacious Cul-de-Sac Gem with Modern Amenities!

Welcome Home!

This is the exciting property in Saddle Rock Ridge you’ve been waiting for presenting convenient access to amenities, schools, and nestled on a quiet cul-de-sac. Step in from the front porch to be greeted with vaulted ceilings, an abundance of light, and seamless open-concept floor plan. The great room moves into the dining space and kitchen where you’ll discover a pantry room and sliding doors to the terrace. The horseshoe kitchen in an advantageous spot accommodates multiple cooks and provides plentiful cabinet space. Laundry closet with new washer + dryer, garage + basement entries, and powder room perfect the main level. Ascend the stairs and find the secluded primary suite with sitting area to enjoy the overlook. Accompanying the primary is an en suite bathroom + walk-in closet. The upper level delivers another full bathroom and two additional bedrooms with built-ins, spacious closets, and coveted south-facing windows. In the basement appreciate a large finished rec room with shelving and a far-reaching storeroom. This level is fit with egress windows offering natural light and additional peace of mind. The backyard is a private, thoughtfully curated oasis and includes the spa for year-round benefits. Enjoy Colorful Colorado with three finished levels, over 2,000 square feet, and an attached two car garage. Schedule a showing today or visit an open house.

Listed by Natalie Kavan + Heidi Bricker for West + Main Homes. Please contact Natalie for current pricing + availability.

 

Have questions?
West + Main Homes
(303) 935-8787
hello@westandmain.com

Presented by:
Natalie Kavan + Heidi Bricker
Natalie: 303-949-3733
Heidi: 303-406-0709
natalie@westandmainhomes.com
heidi.bricker@westandmainhomes.com

---

Just Listed: Welcome to the esteemed Candlelight Ridge community!

Welcome to the esteemed Candlelight Ridge community!

Explore this serene neighborhood and discover this beautiful ranch-style home on a tranquil interior cul-de-sac boasting 5 beds, 4 baths, and an expansive 4,126 finished sqft. The private entry welcomes you with natural light and warm finishes. Or enter through the 3 car garage(220 avail for EV Charger) and hide away the days projects in the owners entry built-ins and desk. The bright and modern gourmet kitchen seamlessly merges with the spacious living room and oversized dining area creating an ideal space for entertaining. Indulge in the kitchen's oversized center island, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and ample cabinet space and pantry. Retreat to the primary suite, with tranquil view of the nearly 1/2 acre backyard, lavish 5-piece bath boasting a walk-in shower, ample soaking tub, large dual sink vanity, and walk-in closet connecting to the laundry. The secondary hallway takes you to 2 secondary bedrooms connected by a shared bath, a charming office and a half bath. Venture downstairs to the beautifully finished basement featuring a bar height counter, sink & beverage fridge overlooking the spacious recreational/gaming area. The TV area is great for watching a movie or your favorite team and hidden bonus room makes a great gym offering versatile functionality. 2 additional bedrooms and a 3/4 bath provide additional space for family and guests. If outside is where you choose to be step outside the dining area to a covered patio and enjoy COs seasons- plan a backyard bash on the extended deck or relax in your very own salt water Hot Tub after a long day. Walk to Longs Peak Park, Great proximity to Hwy 287, Boulder/Erie/Lafayette/Longmont and acclaimed Boulder Valley public schools. This exceptional property offers a lifestyle beyond compare. Don't miss the chance to make it yours!

Listed by Laura Ruch for West + Main Homes. Please contact Laura for current pricing + availability.

 

Have questions?
West + Main Homes
(303) 935-8787
hello@westandmain.com

Presented by:
Laura Ruch
720-289-7653
lauraruch@ruchgroup.com

---

Just Listed: Modern Comfort and Scenic Views in Aurora's Waterstone Community!

Welcome to your new home at 807 S Flat Rock Way, nestled in the charming and quiet Waterstone community of Aurora.

This two-story residence is situated on a prime corner lot, offering scenic views across from open space and trails, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The home features a well-designed layout with all four bedrooms conveniently located upstairs, including the spacious primary suite which boasts a large shower, dual vanities, and a generous walk-in closet. The three additional bedrooms share a well-appointed guest bath with dual sinks. For extra convenience, the laundry room is located upstairs as well- truly an ideal layout!

The heart of the home is the impressive kitchen, equipped with a large island topped with quartz, a modern gas range, and a versatile butler’s pantry/tech space, ideal for both culinary pursuits and everyday tasks. The expansive main floor living room provides a welcoming space for relaxation and entertainment.

Outside, the fully fenced backyard features a covered deck, creating a serene retreat for enjoying the beautiful Colorado evenings. Additionally, this home features an EV charger and solar panels with a small month commitment. This home combines style, comfort, and functionality in a sought-after neighborhood, making it an exceptional choice for anyone looking to create lasting memories. You are going to LOVE living here!

Listed by Piper Knoll for West + Main Homes. Please contact Piper for current pricing + availability.

 

Have questions?
West + Main Homes
(405) 652-6635
hello@westandmain.com

Presented by:
Piper Knoll
720-935-0895
piper@theknollteam.com

---

Tips for Younger Homebuyers: How To Make Your Dream a Reality

If you’re a member of a younger generation, like Gen Z, you may be asking the question: will I ever be able to buy a home?

And chances are, you’re worried that’s not going to be in the cards with inflation, rising home prices, mortgage rates, and more seemingly stacked against you.

While there’s no arguing this housing market is challenging for first-time homebuyers, it is still achievable, especially if you have professionals on your side.

Here are some helpful tips you may get from a pro.

1. Explore Your Options for a Down Payment

If a down payment is your #1 hurdle, you may have options to give your savings a boost. There are over 2,000 down payment assistance programs designed to make homeownership more achievable. And, that’s not the only place you may be able to get a helping hand. While it may not be an option for everyone, 49% of Gen Z homebuyers got money from loved ones that they used toward a down payment, according to LendingTree.

And chances are you won’t need to put 20% down (unless specified by your loan type or lender). So be sure to work with a trusted mortgage professional to explore your options, find out how much you’ll really need, and learn about any guidelines on getting a gift from loved ones.

2. Live with Loved Ones To Boost Your Savings

Another thing a number of Gen Z buyers are doing is ditching their rental and moving back in with friends or family. This can help cut down your housing costs so you can build your savings a whole lot faster. As Bankrate explains:

“. . . many have opted to stop renting and live with family in order to boost their savings. Thirty percent of Gen Z homebuyers move directly from their family member’s home to a home of their own, according to NAR.”

3. Cast a Broad Net for Your Search

When you’ve saved up enough, here’s how a pro will help you approach your search. Since the supply of homes for sale is still low and affordability is tight, they’ll give you strategies and avenues you may not have considered to open up your pool of options.

For example, it’s usually more affordable if you consider a rural or suburban area versus an urban one. So, while the city may be livelier and more energetic, the cost of living may be reason enough to look at something further out. And if you consider smaller homes and condos or townhouses, you’ll give yourself even more ways to break into the market. As Colby Stout, Research Analyst at Bright MLS, explains:

“Being flexible on the types of home (e.g., a condo or townhome versus a single-family home) and exploring more affordable neighborhoods is important for first-time buyers.”

4. Take a Close Look at Your Wants and Needs

And lastly, an agent can help you really think about your must-have’s and nice-to-have’s. Remember, your first home doesn’t have to be your forever home. You just need to get your foot in the door to start building equity. If you want to buy, you may find making some compromises is worth it. As Chase says:

“An open-minded approach to house-hunting may be one way for Gen Z homebuyers to maintain some edge. This could mean buying in areas that are less expensive. Differentiating needs vs. wants may help in this area as well.”

An agent will help you prioritize your list of home features and find houses that can deliver on the top ones. And they’ll be able to explain how equity can benefit you in the long run and make it possible to move into that dream home down the line.

Bottom Line

Real estate professionals have expertise on what’s working for other buyers like you. Lean on them for tips and advice on ways you can get ready to buy. As Directors Mortgage says, with that support you can make it happen:

 “The path to homeownership may not be a straightforward one for Gen Z, but it’s undoubtedly within reach. By adopting the right strategies, like exploring down payment assistance programs and sharing living costs with relatives, you can bring your dream of owning a home closer to reality.”

Read more at KeepingCurrentMatters.com

Related Links

• How Much Does It Cost to Stage a House—And How Much Will You Gain?

• Natural Weed Control Alternatives For Your Garden

• Displaying art in your home? Here are some do’s and don’ts

If there is a home that you would like more information about, if you are considering selling a property, or if you have questions about the housing market in your neighborhood, please reach out. We’re here to help.

Search Homes in Colorado

Search Homes in North Carolina

Search Homes in Oklahoma

Search Homes in Oregon

Search Homes in Minnesota