11 Fun Things To Do in the Mountains This November

From a festival hosted in Pagosa Springs’ steamy pools to a gathering of the nation’s preeminent cowboy poets, here are the best events in Summit County, Estes Park, Vail, and beyond this month.

If you’re one of the Centennial State’s half-a-million skiers, you’ve probably already planned a high-elevation vacay to Beaver Creek or Crested Butte or Breckenridge in November. That said, we probably don’t need to convince you—or your winter-sports-deprived thighs—to take a break from slaloming and explore other happenings. We’ve got plenty to keep you occupied while your quads recover, like feasting on Thanksgiving dinner at a newly Michelin-recommended restaurant, sipping Colorado-made wines while crossing off your holiday shopping list, or soaking your sore muscles at a hot springs festival. Read on for all the details.

Summit County

Wassail Days

Trade your frosty pint of beer for a mug of steamy wassail (hot mulled cider) during this weeklong winter gathering. As you window shop, sample dozens of Frisco businesses’ house-made cider recipes. If you try at least 12 tipples, you’ll leave with a limited-edition mug to commemorate your impressive wassailing. On Saturday evening, visit Frisco Historic Park & Museum for a tree-lighting party with fireworks and carolers; don’t pass up the free gift-wrapping station, where you can let the city’s handy elves handle the hard part while you linger over a cup of hot chocolate. Nov. 25–Dec. 3; times vary; free

Winter Carnival
Keystone might be some 3,000 miles away from the North Pole, but it won’t feel like that during this enchanting afternoon. Children can mail their wish lists north—or make their requests to Santa himself—enjoy cookies and milk, and listen to seasonal tunes sung by the Summit Choral Society. After the sun sets, gather for the ceremonial lighting of the River Run Tree. Nov. 25; 2–5:15 p.m.; free

Vail and Beaver Creek

Thanksgiving Dinner at WYLD
Even if your home cooking rivals Martha Stewart, we’d venture to guess that this Beaver Creek restaurant—which was in the first cohort of Colorado eateries recommended by the Michelin Guide—might be able to one-up you. Leave the basting to the experts, and enjoy a hyper-seasonal four-course menu of Thanksgiving favorites at WYLD, inside the Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch. Once you’ve had your fill, head to the hotel’s great room for a tree-lighting ceremony and warm hot toddies. Nov. 23; times vary; $160 per person

Estes Park

Catch the Glow Parade

Consider this massive spectacle the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade of the Rockies. More than 20,000 revelers will congregate along Elkhorn Avenue to watch 40-plus hand-crafted floats, marching bands, dancers, and the big man himself stroll down Estes Park’s main drag. For an extra seasonal sideshow, hitch a ride on the (free) trolley decked out in holiday decor. Nov. 24; 5:30 p.m.; free

Holiday Wine Fest
Need to take the edge off of the hectic holiday hustle? More than 20 Centennial State booze makers, such as Snowy Peaks Winery and Atōst, will pour unlimited samples of 100-plus varietals during this mountain-town tasting event. Chase the beverages with food from Fork Yeah and Tacos with Altitude, and score some locally made stocking stuffers from vendors like MouCo Cheese Company and Hearten Creations. Nov. 25; 11 a.m.–5 p.m.; $5–$35

Winter Park

Travel Through Time & Grand County
The drive from Denver to Grand County is littered with stunning scenery and recognizable landmarks. During this visual road trip hosted by historian Mark Afman, you’ll get to see what those sights looked like decades ago. Afman, who’s family has had property near Grand Lake since the 1970s, will showcase historic photos of icons that span Denver, the I-70 corridor, Berthoud Pass, and Grand County. Stick around after the presentation for a Q&A session. Nov. 11; 5 p.m.; free

Georgetown

Bighorn Sheep Festival
The VIP section of this seasonal fest doesn’t include fancy drinks, plush banquettes, or velvet ropes—in fact, you’ll find the guests of honor on a nearby rocky hillside. Bighorn sheep will pay a visit to Georgetown, giving attendees a rare opportunity to see the species up close (spotting scopes will be available). Visitors can learn more about the animals’ biology, make sheep-themed crafts, toast s’mores, nibble bites from the likes of Georgetown Mountain Popovers, and receive archery instruction from experts. Nov. 11; 10 a.m.–3 p.m.; free

Salida

Parade of Lights
Each year, Salida lights what locals call “the world’s largest Christmas tree” (read: a 750-foot-tall mountain adorned with 4,500 lightbulbs). Before the town begins to glow with LEDs, line up to watch floats, horse-drawn wagons, local performers, and Santa stride down F Street. After dusk, the Salida Fire Department will oversee a flashy fireworks display to officially usher in the holiday season. Nov. 24; at dusk; free

Grand Junction

Western Slope Cowboy Gathering
Ever wondered how cowboys entertain themselves on the range? (Hint: it’s not with Netflix or TikTok.) It turns out, some of them can wrangle a tune as well as a steer. At this celebration of traditional Western poetry and music, catch performances from national and Colorado-based cattle ranchers-turned-artists, including poets Floyd and Valerie Beard, singer-songwriter Susie Knight, and Colorado Country Music Hall of Famer Peggy Malone. If you can muster the courage, sign up for a slot during the open-mic session. Nov. 3–4; times vary; $15–$25

Steamboat Springs

Farm to Table Dinner at Yampa Valley Kitchen
You don’t have to wait until Thanksgiving to start feasting. This homey farm-to-table function will satisfy your craving for seasonal produce weeks before the big day. You’ll be welcomed with a cocktail from Mythology Distillery and then sit down for a three-course meal of Colorado corn chowder, local lamb shank, and Muscat grape–rosemary shrub sorbet, all made by Yampa Valley Kitchen using ingredients sourced from Community Agriculture Alliance members. Out of town for the November dinner? Secure a spot for the December 5 installment. Nov. 9; 6:30 p.m.; $125 per person

Pagosa Springs

Hot Springs Fest

Even if this festival only consisted of sitting in the Springs Resort‘s healing pools for three days, we don’t think there’d be any complaints. But there are plenty of other wellness activities hosted across the resort during this weekend event, including Vinyasa-based aqua yoga classes, sound baths, calming hikes through the pine forests, and a gratitude ceremony. After all that relaxing, elevate your heart rate during a DJ dance party beside one of the hot spring pools. Nov. 10–12; times vary; $40–$150

Learn more at 5280.com

Related Links

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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.

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West + Main Homes to Oversee Sales for Amacon’s Condo Project in Downtown Denver

Denver’s independently owned and operated boutique brokerage founded by Colorado natives, Stacie Staub and Madeline Linder of West + Main Homes will oversee the sales program for what will be Denver’s largest condominium development since 2009.

Read the full post on Mile High CRE.

Nestled at the crossroads of 18th and Glenarm, Canadian-based real estate development and construction firm Amacon’s monumental condos will reshape Denver’s skyline. Showcasing two towering structures, one will stand at 38 stories and the other at 32 stories.

“We approach this endeavor with great confidence and genuine excitement as we bring our expertise to the U.S., fully committed to creating a lasting and transformative impact in the heart of the Mile-High City,” said Stephanie Babineau, vice president of marketing and sales at Amacon.

Amacon’s commitment to placemaking will transform 18th & Glenarm into a people-centered hub, fostering connections, interactions, and a vibrant sense of community. This innovative 461-unit development will reshape the area, elevating it into a new, dynamic neighborhood with enhanced walkability and a rich mix of residential, commercial, and retail spaces.

“Amacon’s decision to entrust a local boutique brokerage over a larger chain underscores their commitment to conducting business in Denver,” said Stacie Staub, CEO of West + Main Homes. “We are honored to be part of transformative housing developments like this that facilitate our city’s unique and organic growth. We eagerly anticipate how this development will pave the way for Upper Downtown Denver’s future success.”

Davis Partnership Architects is the architect of record for the project.

In alignment with Denver’s urban renaissance, Amacon is addressing the rising interest in mixed-use development, combining residential, commercial, and retail spaces. This trend stimulates economic growth, job creation, increasing property values, and positively impacting local communities. Amacon’s extensive research into the needs of Denver’s demographic underscores its commitment to creating thoughtful and inclusive amenity spaces, appealing to a diverse buyer base.

The development of the two towers at 18th & Glenarm has been under construction since the spring of 2022 with completion scheduled for 2025.

West+ Main is an independently owned and operated boutique real estate brokerage specializing in residential and commercial properties in Colorado, Oklahoma, Minnesota, North Carolina, and Oregon. Currently West+ Main has approximately 500 real estate agents, 320 of these agents are in its Denver offices. West + Main’s sales team has sold over 1.4 billion in real estate and over 2,500 sales transactions earning them the 2023 Power 500 Broker Award and Top Workplaces as ranked by the Denver Post.

To stay updated on project news and how to be the first to purchase a condo, please visit amacon.com/denver.

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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.

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6 Sneaky Tips for Saving Money When You Remodel

There’s something romantic, rewarding, and even downright inspiring about bringing an outdated house into the 21st century—but ask anyone who’s been there and done it, and they’ll tell you the remodel process will test your patience, your budget, and perhaps even your sanity.

“It’s a journey into the land of unknowns,” warns Mike McGrew, a former treasurer for the National Association of Realtors® and CEO of McGrew Real Estate in Lawrence, KS. “You just don’t know what’s inside that wall and how much more it might cost to remove, say, that sewer line until you get in there.”

That’s not to say that renovating a home can’t pay off big-time, especially in the long run. And luckily, there are ways to cut costs during the process. Let’s check some of them out.

1. Be armed with info about competing contractors

Selecting a trustworthy contractor can make a world of difference in the timeline of a home remodel, which will ultimately save you money. Of course, you’ll want to ask friends and acquaintances for recommendations and follow up with references. But you might still be concerned that your budget isn’t quite as generous as the one deployed by your next-door frenemies, the Bickles. (Darn you, Bickles!) Do you have enough cash to make your dream renovation happen?

Here’s a little-known secret: Name-drop competitors and the prices they’ve quoted. More than likely, the contractor you’re meeting with will be willing to strike a deal to win your business.

Once you narrow down your options, you should get at least three written estimates to compare costs and timelines, and verify applicable trade license, bonding, and insurance status. And here’s a helpful tip: Insist on a payment schedule tied to project progress and keep at least 10% back until the job is completed to your satisfaction.

Now, if you have some basic DIY knowledge (or a kind friend willing to pitch in), you can save by skipping the contractor. But make sure you know what you’re getting into—there are some home improvement projects you simply shouldn’t DIY.

2. Know where to cut corners

As popular opinion has it, kitchens and bathrooms are the most desirable areas in the home to renovate, both yielding a return on investment around 70% or more. But a major renovation for a kitchen or bathroom could cost around $29,000—and there’s no actual guarantee on that ROI estimate.

If that’s a scary number for you, don’t despair. There are some simple ways to spruce up these areas without spending too much.

In the bathroom: A fresh coat of paint here (or just about anywhere, for that matter) and new countertops can “really dress up the place,” McGrew says.

In the kitchen: You can easily make your kitchen look more expensive with a few simple fixes, says Deidre Hyland, an agent for BHHS Fox & Roach Real Estate Agents & Associates in Medford, NJ. For example, you can replace cabinet and drawer knobs with more modern hardware or update appliances (when there’s a sale at one of the big-box stores).

3. Time your remodel just right

Homeowners frequently wait for warm weather of spring—along with that lovely spring tax refund—to start their home remodeling projects. But kicking off a renovation between January through early March—when there’s significantly less demand for contractors and materials—could allow you to land some good deals. Just be aware that weather conditions could make the project take longer.

Frozen ground and dry air are actually great conditions to dig foundations and pour concrete footers, and with some planning, you might be able to, say, complete a foundation or frame a room addition before the rainy season is in full force—and well ahead of when prices start to creep higher.

4. Shop floor models

When it comes time to shop for a new refrigerator or oven, don’t forget that sometimes the best deals are in plain sight. In fact, floor models often are marked down by as much as 20%.

Just beware, McGrew warns: If a product on display is plugged in or is otherwise being used, you should check the warranty to see if the deal makes sense.

Many stores also have a small inventory of “scratch and dent” items that are marked down. And when they’re not, customers can point out the flaws and see how low a sales associate is willing to mark it down—sometimes, the price can be reduced by up to 20%.

Other times, you can luck out with other people’s discards.

“You can find discounted appliances that were purchased and returned just because they didn’t fit,” says Todd Ricci, owner of C. Ricci & Sons Painting Contractors in North Haven, CT. “They are still brand-new.” (This is where we offer a friendly reminder to measure your space before starting any remodel! You’re welcome.)

5. Opt for ready-to-assemble cabinetry

New cabinets can easily become one of the most expensive parts of a kitchen remodel, accounting for as much as 40% of your renovation budget. But going for ready-to-assemble or semi-custom cabinets can cut the cost of cabinets by nearly half.

Prices typically start from as low as $60 per foot for budget to midlevel cabinets. Compare this to the cost of custom cabinets—which range from $500 to $1,200 per linear foot—and you’ll quickly realize this simple workaround could land a pretty sweet deal. (The range in prices depends on factors such as style, material, and cost of installation.)

6. Reuse materials

Ask your contractor if he has any materials left over from a previous job that you could snag at a fraction of the cost. Of course, this means you’ll need to be flexible about your materials and have some wiggle room when it comes to a specific paint color or shade of countertop.

Maybe that gray granite is just a tad lighter than you originally had in mind, but it still looks good—and, of course, will put a lighter load on your project’s bottom line.

We’re not saying you won’t drop a chunk of change on upgrading your home. You will! But that doesn’t mean you can’t be smart about it and save some cash along the way.

Learn more at Realtor.com

Related Links

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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.

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Leaving Colorado: The top destinations for people who move out

While more than 264,000 people moved into Colorado last year, another 239,000 decided to pack their things and leave the state, according to new data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

Texas received the most Coloradans in 2022, with Census estimates saying over 24,500 moved to the Lone Star State. Another 21,000 moved to Florida. California was another popular destination for Colorado — almost 20,000 decided to make the move to the West Coast state.

Interestingly, nearly 70,000 people moved to Colorado from those three states in 2022: 33,200 from California; 25,500 from Texas; and 11,100 from Florida.

Those leaving Colorado also sought out neighboring states. That was especially true for Arizona, where more than 12,200 moved. Other neighbors receiving residents from Colorado were:

• New Mexico: 7,846

• Oklahoma: 5,902

• Kansas: 7,359

• Nebraska: 6,422

• Wyoming: 5,076

• Utah: 5,327

The least popular destinations for those on the move, according to Census estimates, were primarily along the East Coast: Rhode Island, Delaware, West Virginia, and Vermont. Puerto Rico was also on that list.

The new data comes from the U.S. Census Bureau’s annual American Community Survey. The survey happens more frequently than the official Census and gives people a better idea of changes happening in their community year to year.

Over 5.8 million people call Colorado home, according to 2022 Census data.

Learn more at Kdvr.com

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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.

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7 Signs Your Home Isn’t Ready for Winter

As the colder months approach, it's important to prepare your home for winter in order to ensure a warm and comfortable living environment.

From drafts and poor insulation to issues with your HVAC system and gutters, there are several signs that your home may not be ready for the harsh weather ahead. In this article, we'll discuss seven common warning signs that indicate your home is not ready for winter and provide helpful tips on how to address these issues. By taking the necessary precautions, you can create a safe and cozy living space for you and your family all season long. 

Drafts
Are you experiencing a sudden drop in temperature in your home? Chances are, you're dealing with a draft. Don't worry; this is a common issue that can easily be resolved. Drafts can be caused by various things, including poor insulation and cracks in your windows or doors. By properly sealing these gaps with weather-stripping or caulk, you can reduce the amount of cold air entering your home. Additionally, you may want to consider adding insulation in your attic to prevent drafts from occurring. With some effort, you can eliminate these pesky drafts and create a comfortable, cozy living space.

Poor Insulation
When it comes to keeping your home warm, proper insulation is key. Without it, you may lose valuable heat, leading to a skyrocketing heating bill. That's why it's essential to inspect your attic, walls, and crawl space to ensure the insulation is in good condition and provides sufficient coverage. If you've noticed drafts or cool spots in certain areas of your home, it's time to call in a professional to assess the situation and add more insulation if necessary. Don't let poor insulation disrupt your comfort or your wallet - take action today for a warm and cozy home all winter long.

HVAC System Issues
As a homeowner, it’s imperative to ensure that your HVAC system is working efficiently, especially during the colder months. If you notice that your home is unusually cold, stale, or emitting strange odors, it may be time to call in a professional technician to diagnose and repair any potential issues. Over time, HVAC systems can wear down and become less effective, ultimately contributing to higher energy bills, reduced indoor air quality, and compromised comfort. However, there are things you can do to help maintain your system's performance, such as changing the air filter regularly and scheduling routine maintenance. Don't suffer from a malfunctioning HVAC system any longer. Trust professionals, such as the people at Trane Supply, to ensure a warm, comfortable, and healthy home for you and your family.

Gutter Clogs
Maintaining your gutters can be an easy task to ignore, but it's important to regularly clean them out to avoid the costly consequences of clogs. When debris accumulates in your gutters, it can lead to water damage on your roof and even inside your home. Don't let clogs catch you off guard during a heavy rainstorm or snowfall. With gloves and a sturdy ladder, you can take care of your gutters and ensure the water is flowing smoothly. Don't hesitate to reach out to a professional if you need assistance. Properly maintaining your gutters will save you a lot of time, money, and frustration in the long run.

Cracks in the Foundation
Ensuring your home's foundation is in good condition is crucial to maintaining a warm and cozy living environment. Whether you're living in an older home or a new build, small cracks in the foundation can end up causing significant problems if left unchecked. In addition to allowing cold air into your home, these cracks can lead to unwanted water infiltration and structural damage. To eliminate these risks, it is essential to inspect your foundation regularly and have any cracks professionally sealed to maintain the integrity of your home's structure. With these precautions, you can enjoy a comfortable and healthy living space for years.

Poorly Functioning Chimney
As homeowners, we love the warmth and comfort a fireplace can bring, especially during the colder months. However, having a poorly functioning chimney can lead to serious safety concerns. Creosote build-up is a significant fire hazard and can cause major damage to your home. To ensure the safety of your family and property, it's essential to have your chimney inspected annually by a professional. Not only will this give you peace of mind, but it will also prolong the life of your chimney and fireplace. Don't wait until it's too late; schedule your chimney inspection today and keep your home safe and warm.

Poor Drainage
When harsh winter weather strikes, your home’s drainage system may struggle to handle the influx of snow and rain. As a result, it’s crucial to ensure your drainage is working effectively so rainwater and melting snow don’t accumulate around your home’s foundation. By checking your drainage system regularly, you can prevent icy patches on your walkways and avoid potentially serious foundation damage. So take some time to evaluate your drainage today, and ensure that it’s functioning properly to protect your home from the risks of poor drainage during the winter months.

It's essential to be proactive and address any potential issues with your home before the winter season arrives. By taking care of drafts, poor insulation, HVAC system issues, gutter clogs, cracks in the foundation, poorly functioning chimneys, and poor drainage, you can ensure a warm and comfortable living space for you and your family. Don't let these common warning signs catch you off guard - take action now to prepare your home for the colder months ahead. Stay warm and cozy all winter long with these helpful tips.  So, make sure to inspect your home and address any concerns before it's too late. With a little bit of effort, you can create a safe and comfortable living space for you and your loved ones to enjoy throughout the winter season.

Learn more at Rismedia.com

Related Links

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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.

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