Colorado Springs Real Estate Blog

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This Colorado Springs home at 12386 Tenny Crags Road is a wonderful stucco and stone rancher with fully finished walkout basement.

This 3746 square feet home has 4 bedrooms and 3 baths, 3 fireplaces, and main-level office.

The home backs to open-space and park and has mountain views from the large deck.

The beautiful Stone Crossing community has a pond and trail system.

The open floor plan boasts a vaulted great room with large windows that look out on the green space.

The kitchen has hardwood floors, 42″ cabinets, granite counter tops and double ovens.

The main-level master has french doors, bay window, a gas fireplace and 5-piece bath with double vanity and soaking tub.

The fully finished basement has two bedrooms, a full bathroom, wet bar, fireplace, built-in entertainment niche and walks out to the covered patio.

If you would like additional information about this home or real estate in Colorado Springs Colorado as well as anywhere in El Paso or Teller Counties Colorado contact me at 1-877-360-3311.

MLS#: 482042

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The ultimate in Colorado Springs real estate, this wonderful stucco rancher sits on half an acre and has an attached 3-car garage.

In addition there is a detached oversized 2-car garage that is heated and has a shop with 220 power.

Fully finished 3904 square feet with 4 bedrooms and 3 baths, both eat-in kitchen and formal dining room. MLS #442354

The open floor plan includes a vaulted living room with a rock fireplace and dramatic Pikes Peak views through the arched windows.

The large master bedroom has a sitting area, 5-piece bath with soaking tub and walk-in closet.

The kitchen has maple cabinets, hardwood floors, solid-surface counter tops and tile back splash.

The french doors walk out to the enclosed deck where you can enjoy Colorado’s sunny days year-round.

The large, fully finished basement includes a large recreation room, gas fireplace, huge Thomasville entertainment center and surround sound.

If you would like more information about this home or about real estate in Peyton Colorado or Colorado Springs Colorado as well as anywhere in El Paso or Teller Counties Colorado, please contact Amy Lassen at 1-877-360-3311.

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When you are thinking about home improvement, be clear about your goal.  If your goal is resale, then proceed with caution. Colorado Springs Real Estate has lost considerable value this past year. As we look ahead and hope to see a recovery in 2008, it’s important to know that the competition is still fierce. You will lose part of the money you invest in your home at this point. With that said, there are many situations where fix-up may be required to keep you competitive.

Best Home Improvements in a Declining Market:

1. Paint – take a weekend and give your home a face lift. It may need paint inside or outside. The harsh sun in Colorado Springs can cause a home’s exterior to peel after about 5 years. Make sure that a buyer’s first impression is positive. Paint the front door and add a new kick plate.  On the inside, think about either touching up with the paint you have, or choosing something more neutral. Home Depot has decorators on staff who will come to your house for a modest rate and help you choose pleasing colors that not only match what you have, but give your home a fresh, modern feel. If you want to find paint that matches what you have, most home improvement stores can match from chip you peel off the wall.

2. Landscaping – the condition of your yard can make or break a sale. Landscaping can be an expensive improvement, so work with what you have and polish it a little. A dead lawn is a huge turn off.  If there is any life left, rake what you have, edge along the driveway and side walk, sprinkle some seeds and Start Watering! If it’s winter, work on keeping your driveway, lawn, rocks and beds free from debris. Remove tree limbs and leaves. Add some fresh stones to your rock areas. In spring, add potted flowers. If your yard is a complete do-over, compare the cost of new sod to what a buyer is likely to pay if you leave it as-is. Xeriscape is becoming common in Colorado Springs because of water issues. Rock and low-water plants are great alternatives to grass.  Ask your Realtor to help you compare your home to others in your area.

3. Kitchen – a beautiful kitchen is indeed a huge selling feature in home, but a kitchen remodel is normally something you do in a hot market, or a home you plan to keep. If you are selling and your kitchen isn’t looking its best, look for areas to polish. If the walls need paint, that’s the place to start. Make sure the cabinets are very clean. Depending on their condition, oiling them with furniture oil can really make them glow. Make sure your appliances are spotlessly clean and replace any broken handles. Stage the table or counter top with place settings. You can buy a few great accents like plates and placemats at a dollar store.

4. Flooring – makes a big impression. If your floors are in bad shape, you may have to compare the cost of replacing them to selling the house as-is. Whenever possible, clean and stretch carpets and look in to having your hardwood refinished. For a couple dollars a square foot, your house can go from Yikes to Wow!

5. Lighting – “Light and bright” are words Realtors love to use in their advertising. Make sure you are letting in as much Colorado sun as possible. Keep light in mind when you choose your paint color. Artificial light is also important. Replacing dated fixtures can be worth every penny. But make a plan so you know what it will cost before you whip out your credit card. Consider adding a motion-sensor switch so the lights come on automatically when a buyer enters a room. If you have a home that may not sell because of a dark living room or kitchen, consider a “solar tube”. These ingenious skylights cost between $600 and $800 to have installed and look like a flush mounted light fixture. They bring the sun in and change the whole feeling of a previously dark space.

6. Bedroom – make your bedroom welcoming. Take this opportunity to give away things you may not really need or want. Make sure everything else has a place. Put away most of your personal photos. You want the next buyer to feel this could be their room. Organize you hanging clothes by color. Your investment here could be in some inexpensive art, window coverings and bedding. If you need ideas, check out home magazines, or go to a new community near you where the builder has staged model homes. You’ll get great ideas.

There are bound to be some questions specific to your situation. When in doubt, seek advice. Know your market and your competition before you spend a dime.

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School districts have a big effect on the value of real estate in Colorado Springs. Buyers, especially from outside Colorado Springs, usually ask me for advice about good areas and schools. My first answer is Realtors are not allowed to have opinions about which schools are best. It’s a violation of Federal Fair Housing Law. The second answer is that I can provide you with all the information you’ll need to answer the question yourself. And do keep in mind that the rating of the school district will affect the value of your Colorado Springs home. If you look for real estate in a Colorado Springs school district where most schools are rated  “Average” or “Poor”, those homes will not hold their value as well has homes where the schools are ranked “Excellent.”

Go to this website and read detailed reports on all the schools in Colorado Springs (and Colorado).

http://reportcard.cde.state.co.us/reportcard/CommandHandler.jsp

These are the districts in our area:

Lewis Palmer – 38 in Monument

Academy – 20 in Northern Colorado Springs

Falcon – 49 east of Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs – 11 in Central Colorado Springs

Harrison – 2 in Southern Colorado Springs

Widefield – 3 in Southern Colorado Springs

Manitou – 14 west of Colorado Springs

Woodland Park – RE-2 most of Teller County

There is a terrific variety of schools available in our area. The website will provide an overall rating and details about test scores and any discipline problems. For more details about specific programs and styles, call the individual schools to get more information.

There are many schools with excellent academic ratings, some that teach French, Spanish or Chinese in 1^st grade. There are K-12 campuses, core knowledge schools and charter schools of various types. There are schools that focus on the arts, others on science. When in doubt, interview the principle or counselor at the school you’re interested in.

Talking with other parents can be helpful. But keep in mind that different people are looking for different things in a school. I’ve spoken with happy, enthusiastic parents in every school district who were quick to say their school was best. So choose the school best for your child’s learning style and keep in mind that the overall rating of the district affects house values.

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There are no two ways about it, real estate in Colorado Springs, Monument and Woodland Park areas has hit a slump and it’s a buyer’s market. But there are still important things to keep in mind. When setting out to buy Colorado Springs real estate, first you should figure out whether you have your heart set on a certain house, or if bargain hunting is your game. The seller may or may not respond to a low offer. You rarely know the life story of the person you’re making the offer to. They may be headed in to foreclosure, or just testing the market. They may be eager to sell, but also easily offended.  Be clear with yourself and your realtor about your goals before you start writing offers.

If you like to negotiate, then take each opportunity to negotiate with good humor and go for it! Know that sellers are rarely grateful for a low offer, but it may be all they will get. Be business-like. Put everything in writing.

If you just want the house, then make sure your realtor shows you the active and sold competition. Decide what the home is worth to you and make an offer (maybe slightly less than that). Keep in mind how much work the house will need based on things you can see right now and make your offer accordingly. If, during the inspection period, you discover that something is broken , doesn’t have a building permit, or has some other previously hidden flaw, you will have the opportunity to negotiate for repair or a price reduction. If, however, you use the inspection objection period to renegotiate the price because of something you knew when you made the offer, that may not work so well. Keep in mind that there is desirable real estate in Colorado Springs and if something comes on the market that looks like a great house at a great price, IT IS!  If you want it, don’t be stubborn and wait for things to get worse. Someone else will buy it.

As long as you are clear about your goals, you can have a great experience negotiating for real estate in Colorado Springs right now. Make sure you do your home work so you won’t question yourself in the heat of the negotiating.

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Should you test for Radon? Simply put, yes.

Radon is very common in Colorado Springs. When shopping for real estate in Colorado Springs it’s important to keep in mind. Radon is a radioactive gas formed by the decay of radium that comes through the soil and up through your foundation or slab. It can condense in your home and over time tend to promote lung cancer. According to the EPA, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, after smoking cigarettes. The EPA has set 4.0 picoCuries per liter as the level at which a mitigation system is recommended.

I recommend testing to all my buyers. I point them to the EPA website to educate them. http://www.epa.gov/radon/pubs/citguide.html#results

If clients tell me they are not concerned for their health, I remind them that the next buyer probably will be. So you can consider it a health issue or a resale issue – either way, now is the best time to test. This isn’t just a home, it’s an investment. Nearly all of my clients have the test done and about 50% of those tests come in above 4.0 pCi/L. I sold a home in Divide, Colorado where the radon tested at 53 pCi/L. I have heard of levels well over 100 pCi/L. You can’t assume you know where in Colorado Springs, Divide or Monument the radon will be high and where it won’t. There can be homes side by side with totally different readings. The cost for the test ranges from about $40 to $175.

Finding that the home you love has elevated radon levels doesn’t have to be a problem. Radon mitigation will cost between $900 and $1800, depending on the type of foundation and size of home, and it works! The technician will take a reading, then install the system, then come back and make sure the level is below 4.0. Testing the home at the time of the home inspection gives an opportunity to negotiate with the seller for either all or part of the cost of the system. Once you have a system installed it does not stigmatize your property. The next buyer can rest assured that the problem has been dealt with.

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Or is the sky falling? It’s so hard to tell. The Colorado Springs real estate market is definitely experiencing a correction that was due. Lower interest rates fueled a real estate buying bonanza in Colorado Springs in the last few years aided by the profits buyers brought from other, higher markets. But Colorado Springs never really reached bubble intensity. Our exuberant building and borrowing did not swell to bursting like it did in Las Vegas, much of California and Phoenix. Colorado Springs real estate is affected by those markets and enjoys (and suffers) a trickle-down effect. Colorado Springs is the little sister who accepts the hand-me-downs. Because our big sister markets could not sustain the profits and continue to send some our way, we could not sustain our rate of growth either.

At the beginning of 2008, Colorado Springs has about 7 months of inventory (that’s homes waiting to sell). In some areas the glut is higher. Many people have taken their homes off the market hoping for things to turn around. It will be a little while. But take heart: our market did not experience a 40% increase in 2006, so it didn’t see a 35% decrease in 2007. If you bought and had to sell in the last two year, I’m sorry. Lousy timing. The lesson to be learned is similar to the lessons of investing in stocks; don’t plan to pull your money out soon. Over any 10 year period, Colorado Springs real estate prices tend to plunk along and stay ahead of inflation.  If you’re not in a hurry, you will be fine. No need to watch for pieces of falling sky.

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Nearly all homes in Colorado Springs has a sump pit if not a sump pump in the basement. If the pump is there, either the builder or previous owner saw a need to provide a way to pump water out of the basement.  The general water table in Colorado Springs tends to be low, but there are areas where run off and drainage can be a problem. A sump pump is the solution. When water collects around the foundation of a house, either from poor drainage or heavy rain, it may find no where to go but your basement. If you have a sump pit, it is located at the low point of the drainage system for your foundation. The pump is probably submerged in the pit and has a float attached. It is designed to kick on if the water in the pit gets too high and pump the excess out into your yard beyond the foundation drain system.

Protect your real estate investment by maintaining your sump pump. Make sure the outlet pipe is not plugged and that it directs water away from the house. A sump pump is never to be connected to the basement floor drain or sewer. Putting storm water in the sewer can overload the public system and cause a back up for you or your neighbors.

Use a flashlight to check if the sump is clean and that the pump inlet is not plugged. Slowly pour about 5 gallons of water into the sump pit. Watch to see that the pump kicks on and discharges the water. Sump pumps don’t have filters, but they do have screens or small openings so check to see that they are not clogged. Over time, a pump can rust through. There are many qualified plumbers in Colorado Springs who can replace them for you. The last one I replaced cost a mere $200.

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The Colorado Springs real estate market is not alone in feeling the pressure of high foreclosure rates. According to RealtyTrac, nationwide foreclosure filings jumped 36 percent from July to August. The latest figures also reflect an increase in the number of homes going into foreclosure that are not being picked up in estate sales and are ending up going back to lenders. Hardest hit are Sunbelt states where inflated home prices rather than economic problems, like job losses, are thought to be the driving factor.

Colorado’s foreclosure rate dropped to eighth-highest in the nation in August, extending its slide down a list that the state had topped for most of 2006, according to RealtyTrac.

But it’s not necessarily good news. Colorado, which was No. 2 in the nation for much of this year and No. 1 for much of 2006, didn’t improve because Colorado’s foreclosure rate is improving. According to RealtyTrac, other states’ rates are getting worse.

Nationally, the number of bank repossessions jumped to 42,789 in August, compared with 20,116 a year earlier, RealtyTrac said. There were 26,842 bank repossessions in July.

While Nevada is still holding on to first place, California and Florida are now close behind.

Nevada’s foreclosure rate was reported as one filing for every 165 households – more than three times the national average. Nevada had 6,197 filings in August, an increase of 21 percent from July and more than triple the year-ago figure.

California reported one filing for every 224 households. That state reported the most foreclosure filings of any single state with 57,875, up 48 percent from July and an increase of more than 300 percent from August 2006.

Florida had one foreclosure filing for every 243 households. In all, the Sunshine State reported 33,932 foreclosure filings, up 77 percent from July’s total and more than twice the total this time last year.

The list of top ten foreclosure states also includes Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio and Texas.

Since one year ago, foreclosure filings were up 115 percent, to 243,947, RealtyTrac reported, with only Illinois, Nebraska and Oklahoma recording a decline from August 2006 levels.

Colorado filed a total of 6,586 foreclosure filings in August, or one for every 312 households. The average for the nation was one foreclosure for every 510 households.

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Colorado Springs offers a terrific variety of educational and entertainment venues. Check out these offerings:

Friday, September 28th

Frida Kahlo: Through the Lens of Nickolas Muray

All day event

Nearly 50 photographic portraits taken of Kahlo comprise this exhibition. The photographs, dating from 1937 to 1941, explore Muray’s unique perspective; in the 1930-40s he was Kahlo’s friend, lover and confidant. “The standout images are Muray’s more formal portraits of his lover. The photographic techniques available to Muray in the late ’30s and early ’40s created layered colors that have an almost painted effect, and are delicious to look at now.” – Publishers Weekly The exhibit includes many pioneering, early color images, which have a luminous quality. The photographs depict Kahlo in a fashion similar to her own self-portraits. The lush, saturated colors do full justice to the elaborate costumes that were an intrinsic part of Kahlo’s self-image. She is shown in many of the photographs in this exhibition wearing traditional dresses – heavily patterned or embroidered garments from Oaxaca, which reflected her love of her Mexican heritage.

http://www.csfineartscenter.org

Friday, September 28th

The Eclectic Eye: Pop and Illusion

All day event

The Colorado Spring Fine Arts Center is extremely excited to host The Eclectic Eye: Pop and Illusion, a major exhibition of works from the Weisman Foundation. The works selected for the exhibition draw from Weisman’s great passion for Pop art and illusionistic art from the 1960s, ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s.

http://www.csfineartscenter.org

Friday, September 28th

UCCS Lecture Series: David McCullough

2:30pm to 4:30pm

David McCullough, a historian and award-winning author, has been widely acclaimed as a “master of the art of narrative history.” He has received two Pulitzer Prizes, and is a two-time recipient of the National Book Award. His most recent book is 1776. Get more information about McCullough and his work with bibliographies available at your library. Friday, September 28 beginning at 2:30 p.m. – University of Colorado at Colorado Springs

http://www.ppld.org

Friday, September 28th

“Heritage – Art For Land’s Sake”

6:00pm to 8:00pm

ART OPENING Invitational Art Show and Sale to Benefit the PALMER LAND TRUST. Friday Sept 28 from 6-8 pm Continues Saturday from 10-5 At the Gay and Lesbian Fund for Colorado 315 E. Costilla St. Colorado Springs 36 amazing Colorado artists present original works of art inspired by Palmer Land Trust conserved lands. The Palmer Land Trust is a local non-profit dedicated to preserving open space in southeastern Colorado. 40% of sales is TAX DEDUCTIBLE and directly benefits the open space mission. This spectacular all-media invitational art show will be fun and fabulous. Help save OPEN SPACE and attend the best local art show this year! This show is FREE. “Heritage-Art For Land’s Sake” Art Show and Sale At the Gay and Lesbian Fund For Colorado 315 E. Costilla St Colorado Springs OPENING: Friday, Sept 28, from 6-8 pm CONTINUES: Saturday, Sept 29 from 10 am-5 pm BECOME A PURCHASE PATRON And get first choice of this art show at a private reception! Call Gary Conover for details: 635-2505

http://www.palmerlandtrust.org

Friday, September 28th

Heritage – Art For Land’s Sake” benefit art OPENING

6:00pm to 8:00pm

First annual invitational art show and sale to benefit The Palmer Land Trust, a local open space non-profit. 36 amazing Colorado artists present original works of art inspired by Palmer Land Trust conserved lands. At: The Gay and Lesbian Fund for Colorado, 315 E. Costilla OPENS Friday, Sept 28 from 6-8 p.m. CONTINUES Saturday, Sept 29 from 10-5 Call Gary Conover for information: 635-2505

http://www.palmerlandtrust.org

Friday, September 28th

“Heritage – Art For Land’s Sake” BENEFIT ART EVENT

6:00pm to 8:00pm

First annual invitational art show and sale to benefit The Palmer Land Trust, a local open space non-profit. 36 amazing Colorado artists present original works of art inspired by Palmer Land Trust conserved lands. Location: The Gay and Lesbian Fund for Colorado, 315 E. Costilla Date and Times: OPENS Friday, Sept 28 from 6-8 p.m. CONTINUES Saturday, Sept 29 from 10-5 Contact: Gary Conover at 635-2505 Summary: First Annual invitational art show. 36 amazing artists will present original works of art to benefit The Palmer Land Trust-a local non-profit preserving open space in southeastern Colorado. More event details: 36 amazing Colorado artists present original works of art inspired by Palmer Land Trust conserved lands. This spectacular all-media invitational art show is unusual in it’s scope of styles and subjects. Ranch lands and animals to local open space landmarks such as Red Rock Canyon and wildlife will be presented in paintings, sculpture, photography, and more. 40% of sales is TAX DEDUCTIBLE and directly benefits Palmer Land Trust’s land conservation mission. INVITED ARTISTS: Michael Baum Jeannie Breeding Lee Cable Christy Callaham Steve Clement Fran Dodd Chris Dysart Michael Gault Maxine Green Mary Helsaple Patience Heyl Kay Jeansonne Deb Komitor Sparky LeBold Stan Loewenkamp Martha Mans Chuck Mardosz Kathryn McMahon Rudl Mergelman Sherry Moldenhauer Pat Musick Tom Owen Richard Pankratz Laura Reilly Ken Riesterer Tina Riesterer Betty Ross Shannon Ryder Theresa Sanchez Kenneth Shanika Nathan Solano Penny Stewart Kat and Bob Tudor Stephen Weaver Nancy Worth

http://palmerlandtrust.org

Friday, September 28th

An Evening with Daniel Beaty: The Broadway Songs I Love

7:30pm to 10:30pm

Relax and enjoy as Daniel Beaty sings classic hits from Broadway shows like My Fair Lady, Ragtime and Chicago. Daniel’s award winning voice and electric personality will create an evening to remember in this intimate, cabaret setting. Located at Woodland Park’s Ute Pass Cultural Center.

http://www.coloradofestival.org

Friday, September 28th

Colorado Festival of World Theatre

7:00pm to 10:00pm

The Colorado Festival of World Theatre brings together the best and brightest international and American theatre artists to entertain and educate a global audience in spectacular Rocky Mountain settings. For ten days every September, audiences from all over the globe can attend superb international productions while world- class theatre practitioners can attend master classes, lectures and readings, panel discussions and question-and- answer forums. Please visit www.cfwt.org for event details!

http://www.cfwt.org

Saturday, September 29th

2nd Annual Great Venetucci Pumpkin Festival

7:30am to 1:00pm

Here’s a fun community event for the whole family at the Venetucci Farm, 5210 S US HWY 83. Schedule: 7:30am 5K Run, 8:10am kid’s run, 8:30am Pancake Breakfast followed by kid’s games, hayrides, craft vendors, live music and farm stand produce. Cost for the run is $20-$28, breakfast $5-$6 – kids 5 and under free. Call the Pikes Peak Community Foundation at 389-1251 for tickets and more information.

Saturday, September 29th

Shopping Extravaganza at the Outlets at Castle Rock

9:00am to 5:00pm

The Shopping Extravaganza benefits several Colorado non-profit organizations. Tickets are $20 and include exclusive shopping discounts and offers, lunch, martini & manicure event, entertainment, and a gift bag. $10 of every ticket sold goes back to a participating charity of your choosing and is tax deductible. Location: Outlets at Castle Rock Registration: 9 am – 12 pm Mall Hours: 10 am – 8 pm Contact one of the following participating non-profit organizations to purchase a ticket: Byrne Foundation The Children’s Hospital Special Olympics PEAK Parent Center Food Bank of the Rockies HomeAid Colorado The Women’s Crisis and Family Outreach Center Child Rescue Foundation Castle Country

http://www.outletsatcastlerock.com

Saturday, September 29th

“Heritage – Art For Land’s Sake” benefit art show FINAL DAY

10:00am to 5:00pm

LAST CHANCE! First annual invitational art show and sale to benefit The Palmer Land Trust, a local open space non-profit. 36 amazing Colorado artists present original works of art inspired by Palmer Land Trust conserved lands. At: The Gay and Lesbian Fund for Colorado, 315 E. Costilla OPENS Friday, Sept 28 from 6-8 p.m. CONTINUES Saturday, Sept 29 from 10-5 Call Gary Conover for information: 635-2505

http://www.palmerlandtrust.org

Saturday, September 29th

“Heritage – Art For Land’s Sake” benefit art show FINAL DAY

10:00am to 5:00pm

LAST CHANCE! First annual invitational art show and sale to benefit The Palmer Land Trust, a local open space non-profit. 36 amazing Colorado artists present original works of art inspired by Palmer Land Trust conserved lands. At: The Gay and Lesbian Fund for Colorado, 315 E. Costilla OPENS Friday, Sept 28 from 6-8 p.m. CONTINUES Saturday, Sept 29 from 10-5 Call Gary Conover for information: 635-2505 http://www.palmerlandtrust.org

http://www.palmerlandtrust.org

Saturday, September 29th

Pikes Peak Hospice & Palliative Care presents The Art of Living Art Show and Sale

10:00am to 4:00pm

The Gallery at Rich Designs, 1721 Mt. Washington Ave. A day filled with painters, potters, unique jewelry, weaving, framed vintage memorabilia, and various other artisans and their goods. Lunch will be available for sale from Cravings Catering Company and sweets from Heaven Scent Cheesecake. A portion of all sales will directly benefit Pikes Peak Hospice & Palliative Care. Further details at 633-3400.

http://www.pikespeakhospice.org

Saturday, September 29th

Frida Kahlo: Through the Lens of Nickolas Muray

All day event

Nearly 50 photographic portraits taken of Kahlo comprise this exhibition. The photographs, dating from 1937 to 1941, explore Muray’s unique perspective; in the 1930-40s he was Kahlo’s friend, lover and confidant. “The standout images are Muray’s more formal portraits of his lover. The photographic techniques available to Muray in the late ’30s and early ’40s created layered colors that have an almost painted effect, and are delicious to look at now.” – Publishers Weekly The exhibit includes many pioneering, early color images, which have a luminous quality. The photographs depict Kahlo in a fashion similar to her own self-portraits. The lush, saturated colors do full justice to the elaborate costumes that were an intrinsic part of Kahlo’s self-image. She is shown in many of the photographs in this exhibition wearing traditional dresses – heavily patterned or embroidered garments from Oaxaca, which reflected her love of her Mexican heritage.

http://www.csfineartscenter.org

Saturday, September 29th

Art Studio Tour

All day event

A self-guided tour of galleries and artist studios throughout the area. Tour directories available at the Cultural Arts Council offices at 304 E. Elkhorn Ave. 970-586-9203; 800-44-ESTES

http://estesparkcvb.com/calendar.cfm

Saturday, September 29th

12th Annual Yoga Journal Conference

All day event

More than 100 classes, all levels and styles taught by notables. Day passes are available for Friday and Saturday. A Yoga Marketplace featuring yoga products from all around the world is open free to the public. Estes Park Center – YMCA of the Rockies. 800-561-9398

http://estesparkcvb.com/calendar.cfm

Saturday, September 29th

Elk Fest

All day event

A celebration of all things Wapiti, the American elk that calls Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park its home. Seminars, bugling contests, elk tours and edible products from elk. Bond Park in the Center of Downtown Estes Park. 800-44-ESTES

http://estesparkcvb.com/calendar.cfm

Saturday, September 29th

Octoberfest at the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park

All day event

Live entertainment by Rick Borger and the Average German Band

http://www.royalgorgebridge.com

Saturday, September 29th

Southern Rhone Wine Dinner

7:00pm

La Belle Vie Southern Rhone Wine Dinner September 29th, 2007 $95 per person, tax & tip not included First Course Mascarpone Stuffed Figs, Wrapped in Prosciutto, Port Wine Marinated Melon 2005 Perrin, Côte du Rhone, Reserve, France 2004 Domaine Saint Benoit, Châteuneuf-du-Pape Blanc, “Gardioloe” Second Course Trout Quenelles with a Creamy Basil & Mint Sauce Domaine de la Janasse, Côte du Rhône, Rosé Third Course Duck Mousse in a Jelly Aspic on a Bed of Frisée Salad Pear Vinaigrette 2005 D’Andezon, Côte du Rhône, Syrah 2005 Domaine La Garrigue, “Cuvée Romaine”, Côte du Rhône Fourth Course Thyme Tapenade Crusted Leg of Lamb Rosemary Demi Glace & Provençcale Tain Château Pesquié, Côte du Ventoux, “Quintessance” nv Père Anselme, Châteuneuf-du-Pape, “La Fiole du Pape” 2005 Domaine Saint Benoit, Châteuneuf-du-Pape, “Grand Garde” Dessert Course Fresh Fruit Salad In a Grand Marnier Citrus Soup Domaine de Fenouillet, Muscat, Beaumes de Venise For Reservations: Contact Stacy Hafsaoui at 719.444.8400 Or email:winesales@vintagespec.com www.vintagespec.com

http://www.vintagespec.com

Saturday, September 29th

Harvest Moon Line Dance Party

7:30pm to 9:30pm

Beginner and intermediate levels. Beautiful big hardwood hall. No smoking/alcohol. Wholesome family atmosphere. $5 per person. Saturday September 29,7:30-9:30 PM. Instructor: Kit Galvin. The Carriage Stop – 2700 W. Robinson St. 80904. Phone 598-8624 for information and finding directions.

http://www.roncounts.com

Saturday, September 29th

Harvest Moon Line Dance Party

7:30pm to 9:30pm

Beginning and intermediate line dancing. We dance in a large hall with a beautiful, hardwood floor. No smoking or alcohol. Wholesome family environment. Instructor: Kit Galvin. $5 per person. The Carriage Stop – 2700 W. Robinson St. 80904. Call 598-8624 for info and finding directions.

http://www.roncounts.com

Sunday, September 30th

Frida Kahlo: Through the Lens of Nickolas Muray

All day event

Nearly 50 photographic portraits taken of Kahlo comprise this exhibition. The photographs, dating from 1937 to 1941, explore Muray’s unique perspective; in the 1930-40s he was Kahlo’s friend, lover and confidant. “The standout images are Muray’s more formal portraits of his lover. The photographic techniques available to Muray in the late ’30s and early ’40s created layered colors that have an almost painted effect, and are delicious to look at now.” – Publishers Weekly The exhibit includes many pioneering, early color images, which have a luminous quality. The photographs depict Kahlo in a fashion similar to her own self-portraits. The lush, saturated colors do full justice to the elaborate costumes that were an intrinsic part of Kahlo’s self-image. She is shown in many of the photographs in this exhibition wearing traditional dresses – heavily patterned or embroidered garments from Oaxaca, which reflected her love of her Mexican heritage.

http://www.csfineartscenter.org

Sunday, September 30th

Elk Fest

All day event

A celebration of all things Wapiti, the American elk that calls Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park its home. Seminars, bugling contests, elk tours and edible products from elk. Bond Park in the Center of Downtown Estes Park. 800-44-ESTES

http://estesparkcvb.com/calendar.cfm

Sunday, September 30th

Art Studio Tour

All day event

a self-guided tour of galleries and artist studios throughout the area. Tour directories available at the Cultural Arts Council offices at 304 E. Elkhorn Ave. 970-586-9203

http://estesparkcvb.com/calendar.cfm

Sunday, September 30th

12th Annual Yoga Journal Conference

All day event

More than 100 classes, all levels and styles taught by notables. Day passes are available for Friday and Saturday. A Yoga Marketplace featuring yoga products from all around the world is open free to the public. Estes Park Center – YMCA of the Rockies. 800-561-9398

http://estesparkcvb.com/calendar.cfm

Sunday, September 30th

Octoberfest at the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park

All day event

Live entertainment by the Polka Mates

http://www.royalgorgebridge.com

Sunday, September 30th

Free Event! All Pikes Peak Reads 2007: Zorro – Kick off party in Acacia Park.

Time: 1 – 3 p.m.

Event Note: Read “Zorro” and become part of a community-wide literary project. The 2007 All Pikes Peak Reads will feature Isabel Allende’s “Zorro” and “The Mark of Zorro” by Johnston McCulley. Participate in theater productions, children’s programs, book discussions, art exhibits, parties, and more! Phone: 531-6333

Saturday, September 30th

Briargate Library Branch, 9475 Briar Village Point

Historical Photographs
View a collection of historical photographs from Special Collections in the 1905 Carnegie. ongoing
Pikes Peak Miniaturists
The Pikes Peak Miniaturists will show scaled down versions of life ina unique miniature display. ongoing

Monday, October 1st

Seniors Beginning Mouse Class

2:30-3:30

In this one-day workshop you will learn how to hold, move, and when to double or single click a computer mouse. It is recommended for students who have NEVER taken a computer class start with the Beginning Mouse workshop before entering the Computer Skills for Beginners. Colorado Springs Senior Center 1514 N. Hancock Avenue Colorado Springs CO 80903 (385-5933)

http://www.springsgov.com/

Wednesday, October 3rd

Briargate Library Branch, 9475 Briar Village Point

3:30 – 4:30 p.m.

Paws to Read
Let your child practice reading and build fluency by reading to a Paws to Read dog. No registration required.

Friday, October 5th

Celebration Metaphysical Fair

1:00pm to 9:00pm

The Nation’s oldest Conscious Living Fair, at the Historic Colorado Springs City Auditorium, 221 E. Kiowa St. Great value shopping, private psychic readings, aura photos, free seminars, and great people. Admission is only $5. Aura photos $15, readings and healings are $15 for 15 minutes or $20 for 20 minutes. 719-634-1810

http://www.CelebrationFair.com

Friday, October 5th

Herb Thomson Remembered

11:00am

Exhibit examining the legacy of this noted Estes Park watercolor artist. Free opening reception, 5-7 p.m. Exhibit continues through Feb. 22, 2008. Estes Park Museum, 200 4th St. 800-44-ESTES

http://estesparkcvb.com/calendar.cfm

Friday, October 5th

Ghost Tours

All day event

Spirits: where they venture, what their past was and perhaps meant to the Estes Park area and other revelations are the topic of the night. Sponsored by Estes Valley Resorts & the Historic Park Theatre. 800-44-ESTES

http://estesparkcvb.com/calendar.cfm

Wednesday, October 10th

Paws to Read
Let your child practice reading and build fluency by reading to a Paws to Read dog. No registration required. 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.

Wednesday, October 10th

Snuggle Up
A special family storytime suggested for children older than 3 years old. Parents are encouraged to attend and participate and children are encouraged to wear their favorite pajamas and bring a favorite cuddly toy. 7 p.m.

Saturday, October 13th

Son de Madera

7:00pm

Son de Madera will get you dancing with its fusion of Spanish and African beats. This accomplished, well-known group is at the forefront of the son jarocho  movement, a musical and dance genre from Veracruz, Mexico. Son de Madera’s performances have been featured on numerous television and radio programs in Mexico and the United States. Their recordings have been used in films and soundtracks, television documentaries and theater. Concerts are free and no tickets are required. Call 531-6333, x1221 for more information.

Wednesday, October 17th

Paws to Read

Let your child practice reading and build fluency by reading to a Paws to Read dog. No registration required. 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.

Wednesday, October 20th

The Zorro Experience
Fencing! Dancing with swords! Zorro mask-making! Learn about the activities that characterized the time and place of Zorro. 10:30 a.m.

Wednesday, October 24th

Paws to Read
Let your child practice reading and build fluency by reading to a Paws to Read dog. No registration required. 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.

Wednesday, October 29th

Stories in the Dark
Come if you dare! In a dark room, lit only by candlelight, hear spooky stories that will send chills and shivers up your spine, and tickle your funny bone. This program is suggested for children ages eight and older. 7 – 7:45 p.m.

Wednesday, October 31th

Paws to Read
Let your child practice reading and build fluency by reading to a Paws to Read dog. No registration required. 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.

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Very Unique Black Forest Property For Sale! This raised ranch sits on 5 fenced acres and boasts over 14,000 of garage and out buildings! With both irrigated pasture and trees, this property has a lot of options. MLS # 438959

The home has a vaulted great room with tall windows, hardwood floors and wood burning stove. The basement has a second kitchen for guests or mother-in-law apartment. 3418 square feet, 4 bedrooms and 3 baths, 2 kitchens, 2 laundry rooms and walk-out basement.

The storage, barn and workshop options will astound you. Concrete floors, drive-through double garage doors, water, electricity and phone. There is a separate shop with loft on a separate drive from the house that could be used as an office. One of the buildings is 136×35 and has dirt floors for horses.

Directions: From I25, take the Interquest exit. Head through the light at Voyager/83 past New Life Church and Pikes Peak Community College and turn right on Powers BLVD. Take a left on Old Ranch Road. It will curve to the left and become Milam. The home is the on the right.

Real Estate

If you would like additional information about real estate in Black Forest Colorado or Colorado Springs Colorado as well as anywhere in El Paso or Teller Counties Colorado contact us at 1-877-360-3311.

Amy Lassen is a real estate broker in Colorado Springs and prides herself on providing clients with professional guidance in all phases of residential real estate buying and selling, including market research, consulting, inspection, marketing and advertising. Her personal mission is to provide all viable options and information so her clients can make informed decisions regarding their real estate investments. She believes the most effective way to provide superior service is to build a strong working relationship with you. Her system includes regular consultations and feedback, which are the best tools for identifying and clarifying your real estate objectives and helping you define strategic solutions.

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