Denver, an urban city with a Colorado Style where jeans are just as acceptable as the finest of cashmere, sits along the eastern edge of the Rocky Mountains. Referred to as “the front range” the city is nestled up against the mountains. Storms tend to come out of the west leaving lots of snow in the high country but seldom making it to the valley of Denver. Since the city is “high” (a mile high) and “dry” (a desert) it is very dependent upon the water that flows east off the Continental Divide.
Denver is a young city, determined to be a city of the future and offers many lifestyle opportunities. In addition to a plethora of outdoor recreation options year-round, the city offers an extensive park systems, more than 300 days of sunshine each year, has a highly educated population, is very environmentally-friendly, offers multiple national sport franchises, has close proximity to world class skiing, has an extensive and efficient light rail system, is family-friendly and much, much more! The mild winters often mean “golf on Wednesday and off to the mountains for skiing on Thursday.”
Buyers have many lifestyle options that vary from historic neighborhoods, to urban living, and to acreage properties where deer frequent your backyard. There are several issues that I always make sure my Buyers understand and are knowledgeable about, including:
1) Radon: Radon is a naturally occurring gas in the soils which may cause harm after very long exposures. It should be tested for and then mitigated to E.P.A standards. It is easy to identify and easy to mitigate. However, home buyers need to be aware of its potential presence.
2) Expansive soils: These soils are actually “clay-like” soils that may cause structural problems. Home inspections are necessary to make sure that foundations have been properly constructed to avoid future problems.
3) Sunshine: Denver’s 300-plus days of sunshine help melt any snow that falls. That is why north facing driveways are to be avoided. Ideal location is West facing to avoid the hot summer sun.
4) Views: Mountain views are very desirable and Buyers will pay a premium to see the Rocky Mountains each morning as they awaken.
5) Commuting: If downtown is your destination each day for work, you’ll want to live near a Light Rail station for easier commuting. The Light Rail is currently along I-25 and future lines are planned.
Two essential tips when buying in Denver include:
1) Be prepared to pay more money for a home with a Mountain View as these homes hold their value. The breathtaking Rockies rim the city from North to South and provide residents with spectacular views as well as amazing sunsets.
2) Avoid homes with North facing driveways. Denver’s 300 plus days of High Altitude sun quickly warms the air and starts the sun melt faster than visitors can believe. If your home faces North you’re shoveling snow while your neighbor with a South facing home “lounges in shorts in his or her driveway!†(You need to see it to believe it).
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