Author: The Moens Team

Homes for Heroes

September 13, 2018

We all have a cause that is dear to us. Ours is a program call “Homes for Heroes.” I received a call from a realtor in Denver. She asked me if I was interested in participating with this program by working with a man that was trying to sell his property here in Summit County. She did not want anything in return but simply wanted to make sure this client was taken care of and would receive all the benefits that I had to offer as a real estate agent. I knew immediately I needed to be a part of this so I joined. Our heroes are extraordinary people and they deserve all that we can offer. I can’t wait to meet my next client!

Since 2009, Homes for Heroes, Inc., has helped over 23,000 heroes save over $37 million on their real estate transactions, sold over $4 billion in real estate to heroes, actively partnered with 2,200 like-minded real estate and mortgage professionals who’ve joined in the mission, and donated over $500,000 to heroes in need through the Homes for Heroes Foundation.

Homes for Heroes, Inc. is the largest nationwide network of affiliate real estate, mortgage, and local business specialists; committed to providing easy ways for heroes to save on a home. Shortly after 9/11, Homes for Heroes, Inc. was established to give back to firefighters, EMS, law enforcement, military (active, reserves & veterans), healthcare professionals and teachers for all they do.

Blog | How's the Market in Breckenridge

To Rent or Not Rent?

August 30, 2018

The Pros and Cons of Renting Your Investment Property in Breckenridge

Renting out your second home or investment property in a popular vacation destination like Breckenridge, Colorado is a tempting proposition for so many reasons. Here are some pros and cons – from our pros – to consider when you’re thinking about renting your Breckenridge property.

Pro – An Immediate Return on Your Investment

Rental income is the biggest advantage of renting your investment property or vacation home. You’ve already invested in the real estate and outfitted your mountain retreat; renting the unit can deliver an immediate cash return when all of the pieces fall into place. Services like VRBO can help you determine how much to charge for renting your vacation home based on features like location, number of bedrooms and extra amenities.

Con – It May Be More Work Than You Think

There are a lot of things that need to happen to successfully rent your investment property. Factor in marketing, managing reservations and maintenance when planning and budgeting to rent out your place. If you’d prefer to have someone else handle the day-to-day details, consider a full-service vacation rental management company.

Pro – New Online Resources Can Help

If you decide to rent your property, you’ll find more and more resources on the market these days to help you. Companies like Airbnb and Turnkey can help you connect with potential renters. Fees for web-based services can also be lower than traditional rental managers if it’s the right fit for you and your property.

Con – Beware Neighborhood Rules

Restrictions on short-term rentals are a hot-button topic in many communities. Towns like Breckenridge are exploring how to balance the needs of owners who want to rent out properties with full-time residents who don’t want short-term renters for temporary neighbors. Be sure to research any rules in your HOA or community charter that might influence your plans for renting your investment property.

Something to Consider – Balancing Your Plans with Rental Demand

If you’d like your investment property to do double duty as your vacation home and a rental property, remember that rental interest and income is likely highest during the times when you may want to stay there yourself.

It’s important to weigh the pros and cons, as well as do your research before purchasing an investment property in Breckenridge. Feel free to look into our other investment property resources, or contact The Moen Team to find your dream investment home in Breckenridge!

Blog

5 Upgrades to Up Your Sale Price

August 23, 2018

Thoughtful upgrades to your property can deliver a big return on investment when you’re ready to sell your home. Whether you have the time and budget for a major renovation or are looking for quick DIY improvements, consider these tips from our real estate experts.
According to HGTV, out of each dollar that you spend on renovations, 75 to 80 cents go directly back into your home through the increased value.

Curb Appeal Is Real

While the growing season in Summit County is short, beautiful landscaping can create a wow factor year-round. A quick consultation with local vendors can yield ideas for an evergreen yard design. A fresh coat of paint on the door, trim or shutters and mountain-inspired details can set the tone for the interior design and make the right first impression on potential buyers.

Kitchens Really Do Sell Houses

Realtors, appraisers and buyers agree – upgrades to the kitchen are the number one opportunity to increase the value of your home. Choose how high-end and high-design you want to go with cabinetry, appliances, backsplash, flooring and fixtures and don’t be afraid to take risks to create a unique mountain retreat. The average return on investment on a kitchen remodel is almost 70%, so well worth your attention.

Make the Bathrooms Shine

Like the kitchen, upgrades in bathrooms are high-impact and will catch the eye of the potential buyers. A brand-new, spa-like master bath will stand out, but less expensive improvements will also increase the sale price. New faucets and lighting are relatively inexpensive and will make even the smallest space shine. If you do have the budget to renovate, the average cost of remodeling a bathroom is $5,000 to $8,000 and you will make your money back here.

Create Space

Knocking out a wall to create an open floor plan can change the feel of a house, especially if your home is small. Removing dark window treatments or installing new windows can also make your home feel bigger without adding real estate. Consider expanding the livable space in your home with improvements outside too – a fire pit or paved patio with room for seating can catch the attention of buyers who like to entertain.

Go Green

New energy-efficient features can save money on utilities – in the range of 30 to 40% – and increase the value of your home. Insulation, appliances, heating and cooling systems, windows and solar panels are the most common upgrades to help make your home attractive to buyers who are aware of the benefits of energy-efficient homes. Start with an energy audit and make sure your realtor knows about the improvements to make the most of your investment.