Our Lofts and Condos Blog

May 24, 2017

Neighborhood Spotlight: In the Center of It All on Capitol Hill

This week we are looking in East Denver at the Capitol Hill neighborhood surrounded by Broadway, Downing, and Colfax. Considered one of the most diverse and eclectic neighborhoods in Denver, Cap Hill is composed of many older properties and buildings built as far back as the 1920’s, and all of them carry their own individual charm. Rated 10th in the nation for the most beautiful neighborhoods to live in by Thrillist, it is nearly impossible to walk around the neighborhood and not see beauty and charismatic features at every turn. With such areas as “Poet’s Row” and “Millionaire’s Row” found in this area, it is no surprise many people find themselves looking at properties in Cap Hill.

Never a Dull Moment on the Hill

On one side of the neighborhood you can find the beautiful Cheesman Park, a great place to go for a run or take the family on a picnic. On the opposite side, you find yourself in the midst of urban living with the Denver Art Museum, the State Capitol, Civic Center Park, and the Denver Public Library. With restaurants galore throughout the neighborhood, any foodie can find a little haven in the Cap Hill area. And if you are not quite a foodie yet, don’t worry, after living in the neighborhood you will be soon enough. 

Historic or Modern, We've Got It All

Capitol Hill has been seeing a lot of redevelopment to increase housing density and now boasts being one of the most pedestrian and bicycle friendly neighborhoods in Denver. If you drive through the neighborhood now you will notice just how many apartments and houses have had a little facelift in the past couple of years while still keeping that deco-styled feel. Apartments and houses go very fast in this neighborhood with many houses having a good dozen bids put on them. No need to get discouraged, though—that is exactly what our agents at New Era Group are here for. If this is your ideal neighborhood, then give one of our agents a call today and let us help you find the perfect home.

Search the Latest Listings in Capitol Hill

 

Contact UsSearch Denver Condos

See our facebook pageLike Us on Facebook:

Posted in Capitol Hill
May 17, 2017

Neighborhood Spotlight: From the Low to the Highlands

I think it's safe to say that the part of Denver known as the Highlands has been quite the “it” spot in Denver the past few years. The booming community has a distinct Hispanic Heritage and has been featured in such magazines as Travel & Leisure as well as National Geographic Traveler

With over 250 acres, the Highlands is located northwest of downtown and has experienced an immense amount of growth and change over the recent years. The area is now full of trendy restaurants, classic boutiques, and bars to watch your favorite Broncos play every Sunday. The area can be split into three distinct districts – Highlands Square, Lower Highlands (LoHi) and Tennyson Street.

Not a Circle but Highlands Square

Head up towards 32nd and Lowell and you will find yourself in one of the liveliest spots in Denver. Known as Highlands Square, this area always has something going on. From the fashionable boutiques to the ever-busy restaurants, the only thing that can be tough is parking--but hey, that’s a lot of Denver right? Don’t forget to check out the local farmers market on the weekend, sure to sit right with the foodie in your life. You can easily get to and from downtown using one of the beautiful bridges crossing over the highway, such as the Denver Millennium Bridge or the Platte River Bridge. 

There is Low, High, and then LoHi

For all of you looking to buy a new home, this neighborhood is one of the most popular and coveted areas in Denver (it can be tough to get into but that is why you have a great agent from New Era Group to help you out!). Ever growing and developing, LoHi has everything from new apartments and homes to quaint bungalows that have been around for some years. The neighborhood is known for its ethnic diversity since its founding back in 1858 and continues to be a popular location for everyone from retired couples to young professionals. 

Take Me to Tennyson Street

This may be one of my favorite spots right now for many reasons but mostly because the people who live in this neighborhood are some of the nicest people you will meet in Denver. Tennyson is full of art galleries, antique shops, food establishments and a few live music venues. If you talk to anyone who owns a restaurant or gallery up there they will all tell you the same thing, they love the neighborhood and are intentional in helping the area grow and become an even more amazing place for people to live.

So, that’s our neighborhood stop for this week. Remember, the Highlands is quite a happening place and will continue to grow and thrive as a community. We currently have some great listings in neighborhoods up there so if you think this is a place you can see yourself living make sure to give our office a call today so one of our highly trained agents can help you out.

Search the Latest Highlands Listings

 

Contact UsSearch Denver Condos

See our facebook pageLike Us here on Facebook:

May 10, 2017

Neighborhood Spotlight: The Sky's the Limit in Skyland

A Small Neighborhood with Big Perks

You’ve probably driven through or past the Skyland neighborhood more than a time or two in your drives around Denver. Located right next to City Park Golf Course, this quaint neighborhood is bordered by Martin Luther Kind Boulevard to the north, East 23rd Avenue to the south, Colorado Boulevard to the east and finally York Street to the west. While this neighborhood isn’t large in size it is a very desirable area since it’s in close proximity to both downtown Denver and City Park.

Oh, the Things to Do!

Skyland is only about a ten-minute drive from downtown Denver, so if you’re looking for a quick commute downtown this is a great place to start. Let’s not forget that you have City Park basically in your back yard, which means access to 330 acres of running trails, playgrounds, and the golf course. If you are feeling like a little more of an adventure, the Denver Zoo and the Denver Museum of Nature and Science are an easy walk or bike ride down the street. This neighborhood is also right down the street from the Uptown neighborhood, which is known for its selection of fine restaurants and bars. Don’t forget in the summer you will only need to walk a few minutes to enjoy City Park’s Jazz in the Park concert series—no need to worry about the hassle of parking!

What To Expect From a Home in Skyland

Architecturally speaking, Skyland varies from bungalows to brick ranches to Tudors and classic Victorians. If you take a drive around the neighborhood these days you will see that there are some new remodels in the area as well, from full scrapes of previous houses to new owners moving in and popping the top up. There are different laws when it comes to renovations, so if that is something you want to do make sure you have looked over the rules and regulations before you buy a home.

Give Us a Call Today

We know it can be tricky to keep track of all the neighborhoods in Denver and most people want to
find their perfect area. That’s where we come in! If you think Skyland might be the right location for you, give the New Era team a call today and let us take you out there for a look around. If you are a person who needs a park close by or wants to be able to get to their downtown office in a timely fashion, this neighborhood might be perfect for you. Let us help you find your perfect house today!

Search the Latest Listings in Skyland

 

Contact UsSearch Denver Condos

See our facebook pageLike Us on Facebook:

Posted in City Park
May 4, 2017

Neighborhood Spotlight: Sloan's Lake

A Lake in Denver?

There is not a lot of water around Denver, and lakes can really only be found in the mountains. But located on the northwest side of Denver is a small lake surrounded by a neighborhood that is up-and-coming, a favorite spot for young couples, families, and retirees. Sloan’s Lake is a body of water, park, and neighborhood that is on the western edge of Denver’s city limits adjacent to the suburbs of Lakewood, Wheatridge and Edgewater. The park is the second largest in Denver after City Park and on any given day you can find people hiking, jogging and bicycling on the trails and sidewalks that surround the lake.

Some History 

The true history of Sloan’s Lake is actually a mystery and one that may never be solved. When Denver was settled in the 19th century, the lake did not exist. Where Sloan’s Lake is now there used to be a road connecting Denver and the western suburb of Golden. In 1866, a homesteader named Thomas Sloan received a patent for the land from US President Andrew Johnson for agricultural purposes, farming, and raising cattle. Legend has it that Sloan dug a well one day which inadvertently tapped into an underground aquifer and when he awoke the next day, part of his farm was covered in water. The flooded area became known as South Golden Road, which we know today as the major east-west street Colfax Avenue. Quite a story but either way, we are glad Sloan was given the land and we are glad to have such a wonderful lake in the city.

The Neighborhood

This neighborhood keeps growing and more and more people are looking to move here. The population is approximately 8,500 residents and growing. The neighborhood has a unique range of housing and styles from 1920’s bungalows to new, post-modern architecture. If you take a drive around the neighborhood you will see the diversity of the houses and the new developments taking place in the area. 

This area is great and only a short drive to downtown Denver. If you think this might be the place to start your home search, give us a call at New Era and let us start putting together a list of potential properties that would suit your wants and needs. Some of us need to live by water, and Sloan’s Lake is a great area for those of us that need a little water in our lives.

Search for Condos in Sloan's Lake

 

Contact UsSearch Denver Condos

See our facebook pageLike Us on Facebook:

Posted in Sloan's Lake
April 24, 2017

DU - The Research University in the Heart of the City

DU sunrise

Lest the citizens of this fine metropolis think the magnificent views and amazing housing market are all that Denver offers her residents, we also have access to amazing higher education. In the 1860s a good friend of Abraham Lincoln, John Evans, founded Colorado Seminary, later to become the institution we now call the University of Denver (DU). While it was originally started by the Methodist church, it always welcomed those of all faiths and beliefs.

The University of Denver

The gold rush came to Denver, as it did to many mountain towns, and caused upheaval in the economic climate. Colorado Seminary, despite its dedication to education, had to temporarily close to reassess and position itself. Chancellor David Hastings Moore reopened the doors in the 1880s and dubbed the new institution the University of Denver.

As the oldest independent university in the Front Range, the University of Denver has remained committed to education, and the Carnegie Foundation has marked it with the prestigious classification as a “high research activity” university. Opened in 2013, DU’s main library is in an energy-efficient services hub. The Anderson Academic Commons isn’t the only revolutionary, state-of-the-art research facility. In fact, the University of Denver has added 20 new residential, administrative, and academic buildings since 1997! Just last October the Daniel Felix Ritchie School of Engineering and Computer Science opened on the Denver campus.

Top Education in the Metro

Colorado is among the most educated states in the U.S. This stands to reason when we have such a stellar choice in our own backyard. If you are thinking about going back to school definitely look into this great university. Student or not, it's always worth it to take a tour of the beautiful campus or enjoy one of the great performances at the Newman Center for Performing Arts.

Leading the Way for a Better Environment

Like many universities in Colorado, DU is also leading the way in environmental studies and policies. Through reusable energy credits, the University of Denver offsets 31% of campus energy usage. Making the environment a priority, DU created the Sustainability Council, composed of faculty, students and administration. The university currently operates the only CNG fueling station on ANY college or university in the entire state of Colorado.

An Amazing Campus in the Denver Metro

Unlike many urban-based universities, University of Denver has an amazingly diverse and visually appealing campus. The aforementioned Daniel Felix Ritchie building includes a gold-topped tower that stands 215 feet high. The Newman Center of Performing Arts is not only a stunning open area for gathering with friends; it hosts over 400 events a year. To retain a classic feel among all the cutting edge architecture, the Mary Reed Building is built with red brick in the Gothic style. 

Living Near the Campus

Many families will purchase duplexes or homes near the campus the help their children have a safe place to live while going to school. Some sell the properties after they graduate or keep the properties as profitable rental units. If you would like more information about real estate near the campus or investment opportunities contact us or call us at 303-991-9878.

See Condos for sale near DU here

 

Contact UsSearch Denver Condos

See our facebook pageLike Us on Facebook:

Jan. 2, 2017

Denver Keeps Getting Fitter

Feel proud Denver! Once again Denver is ranked as one of the fittest cities in the country. In fact, in 2016 we climbed another 3 spots up to 3rd from our 6th place spot in 2015. To us who live in the Mile High City, it comes as no surprise. Fitness in DenverWith acres of parks, miles of paths, and such perfect weather it’s hard not to be in shape.

Why is Denver Ranked so High?

There are many factors that are considered in the report to determine a cities fitness level. Surveys are conducted to determine physical activity, the number of parks and recreational facilities available to residents and even eating habits. In fact, Denver actually rated number 1 for Personal Health Factors because of the healthy eating habits, fitness levels and opportunities to work out in the metro. You can see the actual report on Denver here: http://americanfitnessindex.org/city/denver-co/

Is Everyone Working Out?

Red Rocks parkThat is the elephant in the room isn’t it? For many of us, there are times when working out isn’t fun, or we just don’t have time. In a city with so many opportunities to be fit we need to be taking advantage of them. You don’t have to go to a gym full of the finest physical specimens of the world, or give up that occasional ice cream cone. Living healthy in Denver is easy.

Parks, Parks and a few More Parks

Here are a few numbers to get you going. Denver has over 4,000 acres of traditional parks, 85 miles of paved bike trails, which are connected to hundreds of dirt or gravel trails, many small lakes and over 14,000 acres of mountain parks. I should also point out if head west on I-70 you’ll find yourself in nature’s paradise with the ability to walk and hike in some of the most beautiful mountains in the world. For more information on Denver Parks click here.

Start Slow, Stay Slow, Just Go

I encourage you to get out of the house and enjoy your city. Honestly, we love helping people buy and sell homes in Denver, but even more, we love living here. I’ve met so many great people just walking around the neighborhood or throwing a Frisbee in Wash Park. You don’t have to start running a marathon the first day, just get outside and enjoy the scenery, the city and your neighbors. You’ll be surprised how great it makes you feel.

So what do you say? Let's be Number 1 in 2017!

This is a city known for champions. Whether it is professional sports, academia, or award winning restaurants and brew pubs, Denver is a city of greats. Let’s make an effort to improve our lives, the health of our children, and the well-being of our city. We are fortunate to live in one of the greatest cities on the planet and we should be taking advantage of every square inch. Come on Denver, let’s be number 1. See you on the trails!

And if you do not live here, drop us a line so we can help you find the perfect home for you.

Contact UsSearch Denver Condos

See our facebook pageLike Us here on Facebook:

Posted in Lifestyle
Dec. 9, 2016

Storage Ideas for Your Winter Stuff

The snow on the distant peaks and the howling wind has announced another glorious Denver winter. As we start digging through storage lockers, tubs buried in closets and our friends’ garages one thing is for certain, our condo or loft just doesn’t have the room for all this winter gear.

Breckenridge ski area

Gloves, Hats, Scarves and Coats

It’s amazing how many “props” come with the winter snow. Not only are we inundated with several varieties and colors of scarves, but there are matching gloves, sweaters, flannels, hats and coats for every sporting and fashion event. Here’s a great idea we’ve seen. Take empty, and clean, paint cans and mount them to wall. Not only can you hang a coat on them but you can put your scarf, gloves, and hat inside. Check it out here.  Set up a few of these inside the door and you’ll have your most commonly worn items at your fingertips.

Another cool idea is finding some vintage lockers at a business liquidation sale, estate sale, or industrial salvage business. While you can buy these online, sometimes half the fun is the hunt, plus the payoff is awesome. They are amazing for storing sweaters, ski clothes, and all the accessories you might need for the nightlife in downtown Denver or for a great day of sledding.

Where to put Skis and Boards?

There is nothing worse than getting home from a great day on the slopes and having to lug all your equipment up and down the stairs to the storage locker or to offsite storage. While many stores sell conventional ski racks, it is also fun to have something that is a little more fun. Enter once again the mighty paint can. Hang them close enough together to allow the skis or snowboard to fit neatly in between. To keep from damaging the floor, you can also get carpet squares or multi colored dishwashing trays to trap the melting snow.

Another good option is to purchase a tall armoire and remove the inner shelving to create a hidden place to store your winter sport equipment. This can also work for year round storage of your winter clothing, equipment, and boots. Check out this site for another cool DIY ski storage idea.

Turn Book Shelves into Sweater and Hoodie Storage

Closet and drawer space are often at a premium in lofts and condos so use bookshelves to keep your sweaters and sweatshirts handy in the winter. Set up a large bookcase in your bedroom and in the winter store your books and other knick-knacks in favor of your outerwear. Combine colors and textures for a fun and exciting look.

Make Room for Winter

Finally, if all this seems a bit daunting, one easy idea is to simply swap summer for winter. Instead of renting a large space to store everything, simply store one season’s worth of stuff at a time. When the seasons change pull out the tubs and swap the contents. Make a commitment early to keep it lean and if it doesn’t all fit back in at the end of the season, donate or throw away unneeded items.

For more great ideas check out our other blog articles on storage here.

And if you ever need help buying or selling a condo, come talk to us!

Now get out there and enjoy the winter!

Contact UsSearch Denver Condos

See our facebook pageLike Us here on Facebook:

Posted in Lifestyle
Oct. 24, 2016

The Amazing Crock Pot

Perfect for the urban lifestyle

slow cookingLiving in a Denver loft provides urban metro citizens the freedom to explore the city, enjoy Colorado’s natural environment, and experience some of the best nightlife of any city in the world. Living close to work means short commutes, less hassles, and the ability to get anywhere quickly. However, this enjoyment of life can often lessen the time available for cooking and planning family meals. Enter the amazing crock pot.

A Little Crock Pot History

First and foremost it is important to note that Crock Pot is a brand name, and many other slow cookers have evolved over time. The basic principal is a ceramic or porcelain pot is kept at a low temperature to evenly cook food over time using a liquid base.  The liquids transfer the heat from the walls of the slow cooker to heat the food. This allows the food to cook slowly, absorb more flavors, and not require constant stirring to prevent scalding. It’s brilliant really. More info on slow cookers here.

A Big Win in Small Kitchens

Small KitchenWhile more modern lofts have increased the size of kitchen space, many of the traditional warehouse lofts still struggle. This is actually one of the alluring qualities of loft living, because it opens up the home. The slow cooker is one of the loft owner’s best friends. Not only does it take up a small amount of space, but there isn’t a need for multiple pots and frying pans when making a meal. In fact, the set it and forget nature of the meal, makes it easy to return home from work to a perfectly cooked meal without all the hassles.

Oh, the Things You can Cook!

Denver is known for so many great restaurants and food choices and your slow cooker is no exception. Don’t limit yourself to split-pea soup, chili, or pulled pork. While these are awesomely delicious you can do so much more. Pot roast, cheeseburger hash, chicken meatballs, cabbage rolls, pizza soup are just a few yummy alternatives to the “traditional” faire. Want dessert? How about a hot berry cobbler or even a s’more cake? The options are limitless and twice as much fun.

Come On, Cook at Home

While going out in the Denver is always a fun, you can host your party at home. Instead of going to the pub to watch the game, make some awesome chili in your slow cooker, bake bread sticks, and enjoy some local craft beer while watching the game with friends. Enjoy life, and enjoy your loft. For some great slow cooker recipes to get you started check out this site: www.foodnetwork.com/topics/slow-cooker.html

Contact UsSearch Denver Condos

See our facebook pageLike Us here on Facebook:

Posted in Lifestyle
Aug. 11, 2016

Closet Space – The Final Frontier

If you’re like me, you have a certain love/hate relationship with your closet. It is the keeper of my clothes, storage of all things small, and a perpetual battle of the wills. closetAlthough I’m not ordinarily a jealous man, there are times when I’m walking through houses with a home buyer and I become overwhelmingly envious of the closet. It still amazes me to this day how crucial and life-giving this space is in the home.

But, it’s just a Closet, Right?

There is one topic that continually comes up when we’re selling a home or helping a family find a new place to live, and yes, it is closet space. Think about it: while downplayed, this is some of the most desired square footage in a house, and at times as hotly disputed as the imaginary line in the back seat of a car. Homes designs vary widely and choosing a house without adequate space for all parties can quickly lead to mutiny.

Advice for Buyers

The closets are often overlooked when a new home search begins, so being aware of your needs is paramount before you look at homes. One of the most common reasons for buying a new home is the need for more room, so be very aware of how much space you need. Take inventory of what you already have before you begin searching so you understand your needs and desires. If closet space is important to you, be hesitant to purchase a home with small closets. While there are many options for storage and organization, if you don’t have the space you need you will probably be very disappointed in your new home.

On the other hand, if floor space is more important than closet space, consider a home with smaller closets and use your creativity for storage. Antique armoires, dressers and under the stairs storage can quickly make up for lost square footage and bring a personal touch to your living space. You might also consider purging your wardrobe before you begin your new home search. I understand this is difficult, but you might be amazed with what is hiding behind the shoe rack. Click here for some great organizing ideas.

Advice for Sellers

closet 2By now it is quite apparent how important closet space is to home buyers, and the people walking through your house are no exception. (Trust me, they will look in your closets.) Your goal is to make them look as big as possible without spending a fortune. The first goal is to remove any extra items you don’t need. Take boxes to the garage or a storage unit to free up space. It is also wise to remove clothing you don’t wear often to make it look more open. Just be careful not to overdo it.

If your closet is painted in a dark color, you may want to repaint it white or a brighter color to make it look larger. If the rods are broken or damaged you may want to replace those as well, but don’t do any major remodels or closet organizers unless your realtor recommends it. The best advice is to make the closet look like what you want.

Find Your Space

I have to admit that closet space is a big deal to me and with many of our clients. There is something peaceful about a spacious and well organized place for your clothes, and I know I’m not the only one who feels this way. Search walk-in closets snapIf you need further information about how to stage for selling or what types of homes typically have the largest closets, give us a call. You could also use our advanced home search engine to find which properties have walk-in closets. (Hint: under "Interior Features" just select Walk-In Closets.) In the meantime, find your space and use it well.

 

Contact UsSearch Denver Condos

See our facebook pageLike Us here on Facebook:

Posted in Lifestyle
July 21, 2016

Live, Work and Play in Cherry Creek North with this Luxury Townhouse

Don’t miss this opportunity!

Located across the street from the Cherry Creek Bike Trail and within walking distance to world-class Cherry Creek shops and restaurants, this home is a rare opportunity to the Denver luxury real estate market that can’t be missed.

Kitchen

Two years ago, Caroline Van Velkinburgh bought this home to remodel it and resell it, but once it was fully remodeled and staged with modern contemporary furniture, she decided she wanted to live in it and enjoy the Cherry Creek lifestyle for a while. She has finally decided she will part with this luxurious home creating an amazing opportunity!

Caroline’s favorite part of the home is the four outdoor patios. She loves the option between the unique front patio with contemporary privacy panels that is great for entertaining and feeling part of the pulsing Cherry Creek neighborhood or the private patio off the kitchen and family room where she can enjoy peace and quiet and a glass of wine or good conversation with a friend. Each of the two master suites on the second floor also includes private balconies that offer a quiet retreat.

Other highlights of this beautiful townhome include a low-maintenance yard with only a small patch of grass out front and a drip system for all planters, a fourth bedroom which is rare for a Cherry Creek townhouse, two master suites upstairs, and a distinctive urban experience in Cherry Creek North!

As soon as you walk through the door you will see why this tasteful home sets itself apart from the rest. Soaring 10-foot ceilings, beautiful new hardwood floors and sunlight will greet you as you walk through this warm and welcoming home. It has been totally renovated to the highest standards. No detail has been overlooked. Crystal chandeliers-mixed with modern light fixtures, silhouette window blinds, skylights, granite and quartz countertops, new hardwood floors all lend themselves to the premier modern contemporary look.

The main floor is perfect for entertaining with a living room and dining area connected to the kitchen and casual eating area by a custom pass-thru butler’s pantry with beverage fridge and wine rack. The gourmet kitchen is complete with stunning slab granite countertops and an eat-at-island with a gas cook top, high-end stainless steel appliances, and pantry style cabinets added, for additional storage.

Entrance

Upstairs you’ll find a light and bright landing with large skylights and luxurious new carpet. There are two spacious master bedroom suites with 5 piece baths, chandelier, marble tile, new higher vanities, and private balconies. The main master is a private retreat complete with west facing balcony and spa-like master bath.

The beautifully finished lower level with two legal bedrooms, full bath, a media area and ample storage, and the oversized, attached two-car garage with built-in loft storage and storage cabinets complete the home.

Don’t miss your chance to have low maintenance living in an upscale home within one of the prestigious neighborhoods of Denver!!

Cherry Creek North is a charming mixed-use community with tree-lined streets, inspiring public art, luxury real estate, outdoor patios, beautiful window displays and highest concentration of high-end retail anywhere in the Rocky Mountain West.

Living in the walkable Cherry Creek North community is a sought-after way of living in Denver. The shopping district includes designer boutiques, upscale home furnishings, world-class restaurants, exquisite galleries, posh day spas, outdoor festivals and community events. You can pamper yourself at one of the many relaxing spas and salons or treat yourself to a delicious dining experience at one of the neighborhood's many restaurants just steps from your front door. Not to mention, you'll enjoy your stroll through the neighborhood along peaceful tree lined streets and upscale real estate.

Check out the Interactive 3D tour here:

Also in the neighborhood is the Cherry Creek Mall, Colorado’s most upscale indoor shopping mall; Pulaski Park, with a children's playground and concerts, the Cherry Creek Trail, a 24 mile creek side trail for biking, running and walking, Pura Vida and 24 Hour Fitness, Whole Foods, Safeway, Target, King Soopers, and it’s just five minutes from downtown Denver. More Cherry Creek info here.

More specs on the home:

244 S Monroe Street (in Google maps)
Price $910,000
4 bed | 4 bath | 3,602 finished sq ft

TerraFor more information or to request a showing, please contact:
Terra Hoover
970-556-2634
Terra@mynewera.com