One of the major advantages of owning a condo or loft in downtown Denver is that you are free to decorate and accessorize with anything that fits your fancy. Whether you’re into abstract, antique, mid-modern or traditional, the high, open ceilings of lofts and the clean line of condos will show off your style. However, the ever increasing cost of “cool” furniture and art can be a bit detrimental to furnishing your ideal home. Even replica furniture seems to cost as much as the real thing. Here are some ideas to help you stay under budget, but still get exactly what you want.

The Good Old Fashioned Garage Sale

Yes, I said it, garage sales. For many garage sales are the mecca of hidden treasures and one of kind items, for others they are the tyranny of man’s ability to rid the home of unwanted clothing, bent silverware and damaged goods. Whatever your take, if you are looking for inexpensive items to furnish your pad, this is a great place to start. Check out Denver.CraigsList.org for sales near you but don’t be afraid to venture out into the suburbs. Many people are starting to post photos of the items for sale and this can give you an inside peek into what is available. Neighborhood sales tend to have better items because there is always a little competition between households.

Estate Sales

There is always a bit of intrigue and spookiness around estate sales. Here’s the bottom line, in most cases garage sales are people getting rid of stuff they don’t want, while in estate sales, people selling are selling everything including their best items. The advantage of most estate sales is they are run by professional companies that make it more pleasing than the average yard sale. Generally the house is open and you are able to see the items in a more natural setting. In addition, many companies accept credit and debit cards so it makes purchasing easier.

Try EstateSales.net to find sales in your area. On this site you will also have access to photos of what is being sold. This way you can quickly see if there is something you are interested in or if this sale just isn’t for you. You will be pleasantly amazed at how many very interesting and rare items are sold at these sales, but be careful, many people get addicted because not only do you save money, they are a lot of fun.

Go for the Volume Buy

Finally, one great way to get lower prices on new furniture is to buy in bulk. Try to buy sets instead of individual pieces. I have friends who will go to large furniture stores and buy sets together and then split them up when they get home. Both get exactly what they want and save money in the end because of the discounts. Just be sure you don’t both want the ottoman.

Hit the Road and Make it Fun

Jump in the car and check out garage sales or flea markets to find some really great buys. If you get up early and are dedicated, you will have first dibs to find that one of a kind item that will make your place look great. Going with a good friend always makes it more fun. So pack a lunch, plan your route and even enjoy time at a park to give yourself a break between stops. And if you stumble on a neighborhood that strikes your fancy, come talk to us and we can tell you all about it.

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To anyone who is lucky enough to live in this glorious city, it is no surprise that Denver makes the ranks of the top 10 fittest US cities according to American Fitness Index. With miles of paths, acres of open spaces, and the mountains so close, almost everyone has an active lifestyle. Wouldn't you rather go stair-climbing at Red Rocks than inside a gym? But what is this prestigious award based on?

Denver is on the Honor Roll

Surely, the science behind this is more than just walking around the streets and counting the runners. The report from the American Fitness Index studies the 50 most populous cities in the US and ranks them according to these areas: levels of chronic disease conditions, health care access, community resources and policies that support or encourage physical activity. Not every city is on the “Honor Roll” like Denver, so the AFI also provides resources for cities to help them focus their efforts on their “weaknesses” and facilitate connection with health partners.

Taking Pride in our City

Denver residents should be proud that our city has invested so much time and resources toward our well-being. Well, the study’s over, and it’s time to read the report card for 2015! Denver is number 6! Denver citizens aren’t just strong physically, we are strong mentally, so I’ll let you read the other portions of the study yourself, but let’s discuss our fair city and her resources to help us enjoy the scenery, instead of just looking at it outside our windows.

Denver’s Commitment to Fitness

The AFI has set a goal of 10.6% of a city’s land to be dedicated toward parkland. Denver misses it, but only by narrow margin (7.9%). However, this may just be due to the density of our beloved metropolis, because we exceed the ideal 4,100 parks per city (4,300). The Mile High City has created 140,000 dog parks, 23,000 tennis courts, 110,000 golf courses, 460,000 swimming pools and 24,000 playgrounds. Denver has gone out of her way to make us able to enjoy her as long as we live, and thanks to her that is longer than in less-healthy cities. 83,000 Denverites are within 10 minutes walking distance to a park. One of our favorites is Washington Park.

Get Off the Couch

Not only is Denver a beautiful place to live, but the city and county governments have created the infrastructure necessary and invested the money ($100/person) to ensure that we can engage with our geography, not just see it. Don’t be intimidated, Denver has enough room for even the couchiest of couch potatoes, but it will take a lot of restraint to remain inside with the Rocky Mountains calling your name. Enjoy the hike!

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Denver, albeit a fantastic place to work, play and live, may not be dubbed the beer capital of the world, but we sure do know how to brew. Whether it is the crisp, clean water or the fresh mountain air, there’s just something about the beer in Denver that will appeal to even the finickiest of connoisseurs.

The Governor’s Brewery

You can’t beat a brewery started by the former Denver Mayor, now Governor.  In fact, The Wynkoop Brewing Company was the first brewpub in the Denver Metro, founded in 1988. It boasts over 4,000 barrels of fresh beer each year. This record makes it one of the largest brewpubs in the world. When you visit, you will have your choice of 22 billiards tables, dart boards galore and tons of other bar games to play while you sip your legendary brew! Their claim to fame is the Railyard Ale, an amber ale that was the flagship that started it all. Get more info here.

Rock Bottom is Good

While you’re creating your very own pub crawl, make your way a little further south to the Rock Bottom Brewery in the Denver suburb of Englewood. ALL 40,000 barrels annually are handcrafted onsite. As a result of this fastidious dedication to detail and legacy, Rock Bottom Brewery was named the “Large Brewpub and Large Brewpub Brewer of the Year” at the 2008 Great American Beer Festival and it continues to be a trendsetter. Molly Brown, one of the famous survivors of the Titanic lends her name to an ale that balances the hops and malt flavors as to be “unsinkable.”

No Division Here, Just Great Beer

Denver natives just don’t mess around when it comes to brewing. The Great Divide Brewery Tap Room has won thirteen Great American Beer Festival medals and four World Beer Cup awards. There is a piano to entertain you while you sample beers on tap or by the bottle. Can’t stay past the second ballad? Grab a 6-pack of your favorite beer from this Denver legend. Or better yet, bring a growler, and the tap hands will fill‘er up. Get a sample here.

This is where Jerry would have Gone

Who says a brewery can’t have a theme? Well, no one really, but that was a catch way to open the paragraph, no? Vine Street Tavern is Denver’s homage to the Grateful Dead. They blare Jerry Garcia’s music through the speakers and serve burgers (It’s Colorado, so there are veggie burgers available). Like most Denver breweries, this one has won multiple awards, six to be exact. If you’re there, grab a Colorado Kind, their amber ale that is dry hopped with cascade and whole flower hops, listen to the Grateful Dead and admire the Denver skyline. You just can’t beat it.

More Coming Everyday

These are only a few of the many skilled breweries and tap houses located in the Denver metro. The talent and dedication is clear with every sip. Colorado has mountains, bike trails and beer. Whether you are visiting or a lifelong resident, you may think you’ve died, because Denver looks a lot like heaven!

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Rarely do I encourage my fellow downtown dwellers to leave the city, especially with all the great summer events and activities, but this is a special circumstance. Just a short drive from downtown Denver is Heritage Square. Opened in 1971 it features a small amusement park, a Victorian themed village and has one of my favorite attractions in the metro, the Alpine Slide.

End of a Denver Metro Tradition

Earlier this year, it was announced that the Alpine Slide and the Village will be closed after the 2015 season. The amusement park and Victorian Events Center will continue to operate, but this summer will be your last chance to ride the slide. So grab the family, a few friends and enjoy some old-fashioned fun and excitement.

Fast or Slow Thrills   

Alpine slides have been popular for a long time. Like bobsledding on wheels, they are usually built on the sides of mountains or large hills to provide summer time attractions and revenue during the skiing off-season. Some slides use wheeled carts that have a brake system that controls speed. The slide in Golden utilizes plastic runners that glide easily over the smooth surface of the slide.

If you want to go fast you push the lever forward and let it rip. For the more conservative, or if you are riding with a small child, you can pull back on the lever to allow for a more leisurely ride. The Alpine Slide at Heritage Square has two tracks, one for the experienced thrill seeker and one for slower speeds. I’m all about pushing the handle forward and racing towards the bottom.

Great Value for Denver Fun

The slide is open Monday - Saturday: 10 am – 8 pm, and Sunday from 11 am – 8 pm, weather permitting. Tickets are $8.00 for single riders 7 and older and $5.00 for children 6 and under. Please note children under 6 must ride with ticketed rider 18 or older. Part of the experience is the ski lift ride to the top of the mountain, where you will enjoy great views of the surrounding open spaces and be able to look back at downtown.

Colorado Summers Rock

Heritage Square is located at 18301 West Colfax Avenue in Golden and has all the makings for a fun outing from the city. Besides the slide there is an incredible maze, carnival rides, zip lines and other great activities for kids of all ages. Parking is close and this is one metro tradition you want to experience before it is too late. For other fun summer events, stay tuned to our blog posts or follow us on Facebook.

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Denver has more rooftops patios than you probably even know about. With the city constantly growing and developing, restaurants and bars alike have realized just how much people love to be outdoors during the sunny summer days. People like to enjoy the cityscape, feel a light summer breeze play in their hair, and partake in good food and beverages while immersing themselves in the outdoors around them. We have compiled a list of some of the best rooftop patios in Denver, some known for their incredible views, some known for their quaint atmosphere, but each offering a unique area for you patio-goers to relax and relish in the summer heat.

For a View of the City

• Linger – If you want some of the best skyline views of Downtown Denver, look no further than Linger located at 2030 W. 30th Ave in the Highlands neighborhood. A former mortuary turned eatery, Linger is renowned for their food truck food options and delicious adult beverages sure to cool you down on any hot summer day. Google map here

• The Tavern Downtown – Situated right next door to Coors Field at 1949 Market Street, the Tav as many locals call it boasts an 11,000-sq ft rooftop that entertains both during the day and at night. Definitely a party-vibe feel when the sun goes down with two bars, 27 televisions, and a fireplace, enough space for any size party to enjoy views of the city from all angles. Map here

• Los Chingones – This is a Troy Guard restaurant so let’s just start off there. Located down in the happening RiNo art district, this 90-seat rooftop patio has become a popular hangout for many Denver locals. They make some mean tacos here as well as strong tequilas drinks, all enjoyed while admiring the city from a short distance. Map here

• Ale House at Amato’s – This may be hands down the top rooftop patio in Denver and can be quite a difficult place to get a seat when it is busy. With breathtaking unobstructed views of downtown Denver, this is the perfect place to pitch up all night and enjoy a cold beer and conversation with your friends. Map here

For an Intimate Oasis

• Izakaya Den – South Pearl Street has always boasted many a good restaurants and Izakaya is no exception. With some amazing sushi and a selection of sake to boot, this cozy rooftop is a great place for a date with string lights and leafy foliage surrounding you as you gaze at those starlit skies on clear nights. Map here

• Solitaire – This is a newly opened small-plate restaurant in the Highlands with a small, scenic rooftop terrace decorated with wood tables and a brick-laid fireplace. In grabbing a rooftop seat you will get a view of 32nd Avenue, always a good people watching street. Map here

• Tamayo – For those of you who don’t want all the sun but want the rooftop experience, try out Tamayo located in LoDo. A classy utopia of stylish sofas and chairs and foliage, this rooftop boasts views of the mountain peaks and offers a beautiful sunset. Map here

Whether you are looking for a spot to hang with all your co-workers, or a place to have a quiet dinner with a loved one, Denver has rooftop patios to fit anyone’s personal desires. At the New Era Group, we like to enjoy Linger’s rooftop patio located right around the corner from us; nothing like spending time with the best co-workers in Denver!

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Whether you are new to Denver or a native, a challenge everyone faces is where they will live and how they will afford the cost of the ever-rising rent in the city. Renting an apartment or a house in Denver is always a challenge, starting with where to look for a rental. For those of you that like the lights and sounds of the city, looking for a rental in the Lower Downtown area or the Ballpark district would be ideal. For those of you who are looking to be in the next up-and-coming areas, Five Points and the Highlands are rapidly growing into the most desirable areas in the city. Others who are looking for more trees and green, maybe a park down the street, should consider Wash Park or Capitol Hill as potential living locations.

Apartments in Denver go Fast

Once you have figured out a neighborhood, it is time to find an apartment along with a good amount of other people. One of the challenges when looking in these popular neighborhoods is that there are always others also looking to rent. So, good rental properties stay on the market for a very short time, many times being snatched up in a few hours. Patrolling Craigslist and Trulia and Zillow all day long can take a toll on any person and is discouraging when looking for a place.

High Demand Equals High Rent Prices

The final hurdle with renting are the skyrocketing prices of rent in Denver. With the ever-growing population, there is such a high demand for new rental properties and with that comes rising rent prices. Denver has now been compared to the likes of Los Angeles when it comes to rent prices, something many of us do not like to hear. Recently in their “Out of Reach” report, the National Low-Income Housing Coalition broke down exactly how many hours every individual household would have to earn per hour to be able to afford basic rental prices today. In Colorado, the average a person would have to make was $19.89/hour, which is nearly three times the current federal minimum wage of $7.25, to afford a basic two-bedroom unit. Today, the average renter makes an average of $15.16/hour which explains why so many people are looking to rent with one or a few roommates to keep the price of rent down. Nearly half of the U.S. population who rents is spending more than 30% of their income on housing. Like I mentioned before, with such a high demand for housing in Denver and not enough supply, rental places can charge higher amounts.

Consider the Benefits of Buying

As a realtor, I understand the frustrations that come with renting, and that is where I would encourage people to consider buying a house. Paying a mortgage, while like rent, is for your own house and eventually is paying off for you to have your first starter home or the home of your dreams. Investing now will pay off down the road, and you won’t be paying over a quarter of your income to someone else - that money will be going back towards your own investment.

All of my staff at New Era Realty would be happy to help you begin your search for your home. Please contact us or give our office a call today at 303-991-9878.

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I may be a little old-fashioned, but there are few things that scream summer as much as a dog and beverage while watching baseball, and to be a bit subjective, no place better than Coors field to do it. I’ve already been to one game this year and can’t wait to go to more. I’m excited about what this season brings, not just for the Rockies, but for the upcoming fun I’m plan on having with friends and family.

The Sights, Sounds and Smells of Rockies Baseball

For those that venture into the park each summer you know exactly how I feel. The excitement grows with the sounds of the crowd, the crack of the bat and the roar of every home run. Nothing is better than a foot-long Rockie dog and a craft beer while watching your favorite team. If you have you never gone to a ball game then this is one event you need to add to your bucket list for the summer.

Food, Food and Food

I’ve been to a few ballparks around the country and I have to be honest the variety and quality of food at Coors Field is amazing. If you aren’t a hot dog fan don’t despair. There are pizzas, paninis, burritos, tacos, BBQ, burgers and just about everything you could ever want. In addition the crowd favorites of peanuts, cotton candy, funnel cakes and ice cream. Check out the menu here. If you’re a craft beer aficionado you can be assured that you will find something you like on one of the carts, or meander up to the Rooftop and check out the offerings.

Get There Early

If you have children, or even if you don’t, arriving to Coors Field early is always recommended. Gates A and E open 2 hour early for those who want to watch batting practice before the game and this provides a great opportunity to see the players warmup and maybe even grab a fly ball. The smaller children can play on the playground behind section 147 and burn off a little pregame energy. Arriving early also leaves you time to walk around and check out the stadium. Trust me there is plenty to do.

Park or Ride

My first advice is unless you have a parking pass is to take the bus. The "RockiesRide" RTD buses drop off at Gate B in the RTD bus parking lot and stay there until the game ends. Taking the bus keeps you out of the traffic and long exit lines after the game. Get more information here. Parking in the Colorado Rockies operated lot is $16.00 in Lot A and $14.00 in Lot B, but they do take cash and credit cards. There are several paid parking spots around the ballpark, but be careful, some can be quite expensive.

Hooked? Live There!

If you’re a baseball fanatic or just a lover of downtown the Ballpark Neighborhood is a great place to live. There are several new residential developments, condos, new lofts and traditional warehouse lofts in the area. In fact most places are so close you can walk to the park or ride your bike. This is an active bustling place and a great place to live all year long. Give us a call at 303-991-9878 to set up a personal tour.

As for now, PLAY BALL!

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Despite the high altitude in Denver (a mile high), homeowners are still at risk of flooding, especially in light of the recent torrential rain this May 2015. There are some easy steps every home owner in the Denver area can take to protect their house in the case of flooding. Being prepared in advance can help abate or reduce damage caused by wet weather.

Safe-Guard In-Home Safety and Electrical Systems

Sockets, switches, circuit breakers; they all need to be raised to no less than a foot above the possible flood level in your area. If you can, take time to modify your furnace and water heater so that they sit ABOVE your property’s flood level. If you can’t raise this equipment consider a sump pump if you have had water problems in the past.

Raise and Anchor Outdoor Equipment

Air-conditioning units and generators should be anchored and raised above your flood level. Don’t forget that unanchored fuel tanks for grills and boats can break free, and supply lines that have become severed will contaminate surrounding groundwater. No matter your elevation, electrical power units and generators should never sit on the ground. Once these facilities become inundated with water, they are useless.

Modify Your Water Valves

When a sewer system floods, it can cause sewage to back up into your house. To prevent this, install an exterior or interior backflow valve. Gate valves are recommended for their complexity and their ability to be operated by hand. They provide a much stronger seal than check or flap valves, which open automatically to allow water to flow out and then close the minute water gets in. These valves should be installed in ALL the pipes entering your Denver area home.

Take Last Minute Measures as Waters Rise

Let’s face it, we live in Denver, the mile-high city. We are not likely going to prepare for flooding before the May rains start pounding down. So, there are some last minute steps that all homeowners can take to keep their house safe when Colorado rains simply won’t quit.

• Clear downspouts and gutters
• If you have time, move rugs, electronics and furniture to the upper floors
• Do what you can to elevate major appliances onto concrete blocks if they are outside in harm’s way
• Shut off electricity at the breaker panel, not just at the switches.

See this article on 6 ways to protect your home from flooding.

For local flood stories, visit CBS flash flooding news here.

If you are looking for a new home or property and are wondering about flood zones and other water related issues, give us a call. As Denver residents and natives we are extremely familiar with the area and can help you make a great decision about your next home.

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As a real estate agent most days are packed with numerous appointments and tasks. While I do my best to keep focused and caught up, it recently occurred to me as I walked through the busy streets of downtown Denver how much I might be missing. Don’t get me wrong, I love talking with people, helping people, and seeing the excitement that comes with a new home or having sold one, but sometimes getting out and exploring is just what is needed.

What a Beautiful Place We Live!

For instance, the more I walked I was enamored by the various small cafes, coffee shops and restaurants. I realized that I hadn’t visited many of these local treasures. Many us downtown dwellers are aware of the eclectic and fun stops in LoDo and LoHi, but as you pass through other neighborhoods be on the lookout for something new. Some of my best memories come from frequenting the smaller, hidden venues with families and friends. Look around and you might be surprised.

Natural Beauty in the City?

Take a moment to appreciate the wonderful parks, flowers and fauna that adorn downtown. Most outsiders consider the downtown area as concrete, metal and glass, but if you look around you will discover myriad open green spaces and areas where shop owners and residents that have created stunning little gardens with flowers of every color and type. It is a reminder that our Colorado love for the outdoors isn’t just confined to the mountains, but really exists everywhere.

Do You Smell Coffee?

It is amazing how many small coffee and tea shops are in Denver. We are all associated with the big chains and movers and shakers, but if you allow your nose to be your guide, you will discover some of the quaintest spots in the city. Places where people talk, read, work and enjoy the city over the aroma of espresso and muffins.  These generally are not the place for people in a hurry, but people that want to connect.

For Heaven’s Sake, Just Smile

Too many people view the downtown of a big city as cold, disenchanted and unengaged. I can’t really speak about other cities, but Denver is not that way. I talk with people daily who live/work here and they love it. For many of my clients, getting closer to the action and buying a downtown loft or condo was the best decision they've made. Being surrounded by some of the best entertainment, sports, restaurants in the city is great, but to them it is the people. It is amazing how far a smile goes as you walk down these busy streets, visit farmers markets or in line for coffee. Denver is full of some of the friendliest people in the world; we just need to remember to show it.

Enjoy your Adventure...

I intentionally left out the names of the small shops and places I love to visit to give you the opportunity to discover them for yourself. Don’t be afraid to venture off the path, perhaps make a bucket list of areas to visit — or even ask a friend to join you on your adventure. If you’re stymied and need a few suggestions of where to start, just give me a call at 303-991-9878 or check out our Denver lifestyle posts here. Enjoy your city... and smile while you are at it!

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Take Me Out to the Ball Game

Who else is really excited for baseball season to start? Nothing like going to a Rockies game at Coors Field, have a nice cold beer, grabbing a bag of peanuts, and watching the Rockies play as the sun sets over the mountains. Opening day was just this past Friday, a day when everyone wears their purple gear and cheers on our awesome home team. The downtown was a buzz and hopeful fans went to the first game of the season anticipating a good year ahead for the team. While the team did lose to the Mariners 4-5, the crowd was still engaged and excited for the 2015 season.

A Little Rockies History

How much do you know about your local baseball team? We are a fairly new team to the league, only being granted access and ownership in 1991, the Rockies started playing in the western division of the National League in 1993. The first game ever was played on April 5, 1992 against the New York Mets at Shea Stadium. Here are a few other facts you may not have known about our beloved Denver baseball team:

• The Rockies have reached the MLB postseason 3 times, each time as a National League wild card.

• They were eliminated twice (1995 + 2009) in the first round of the playoffs.

• In 2007 the Rockies went all the way to the World Series, their only stint there, but were swept by the Boston Red Sox.

• One of the best mascots in the league (at least in my opinion) is Dinger, the wonderful purple dinosaur who knows how to have a good time at every game.

What To Do on Game Day

Because there are so many fun things to do downtown during game day, we thought we would throw out a few suggestions. If you are going with a bunch of your buddies and want to have a drink or appetizer before the game, maybe enjoy the sun on a rooftop, stop by either Viewhouse or Tavern, located right across the street from the stadium. Thinking of making it a work event? Grab some of the cheap Rockpile seats and take the whole office, a great team bonding activity. If you are taking the family to the game, get there early and take your kids around the stadium. There are bating cages they can try out and they can also meet Dinger for a photo. Last year the stadium added their own rooftop bar also part of the Tavern family, which is a great place to go for a drink, the views, and to mingle with other Rockies fans. Don’t forget to try out some of the great baseball food while you are there too, from hot dogs to peanuts to churros, the food at the stadium covers everyone’s wants and needs. Check out the Rockies 2015 schedule and make sure to catch a few games this summer, you better believe New Era will be there!

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