Author: Teresa Moen

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The Breckenridge Market in Brief

Sales are up 6% and the average sold price is up 5.4% in Summit County. The North Side (Frisco and Silverthorne) is witnessing a 12% improvement in sales and a slightly down average sold price (-0.5%). The South Side sales (Breckenridge )are down -2.5% and the average sold price is up substantially (+14.7%).

Interesting that the total number of properties under contract is currently up +31% over this same time last year. Another interesting tidbit is that if we remove all the new construction that is pending the total number of properties under contract today is exactly the same as last year. It will be interesting to see what percentage of that 31% improvement closes in 2014.

Just keeping you in the loop!

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How to prepare your second home in Breckenridge for that winter sale

Winter Second Home in Breckenridge
If you are thinking about putting your second home in Breckenridge on the market during winter, here are a couple of ideas to help make a quicker sale. This will make your property safer for potential buyers that come to preview your property.

We are a ski resort, so lots of snow. Your second home needs to be safe to show which means you need to pay the extra money and have the decks and stairs shoveled. One reason is liability: if someone falls on slippery stairs or walkways there is huge potential for injury and lawsuits. Or if you have a metal roof, you don’t want the snow to come slamming off of that roof right onto your front deck or someone’s head for that matter. Plus, they probably won’t be keen on buying your home!

Winter Second Home in BreckenridgeThe second reason is that buyers need to be able to see what they are buying. If the back deck for example backs up to the beautiful Breckenridge forest, but the snow level is four feet high for lack of shoveling, the only option is for a buyer to stand at the window and look out. Think about it: if you were buying a house what a difference it would make if you are coming from the city let’s say and you walk outside on your deck and smell the fresh air, see a gorgeous forest and hear the squirrels and birds. We want them to experience the Breckenridge we know and love.

Thirdly, this makes the house feel well cared for. If it is covered in snow, it can look neglected. This can make a buyer nervous about lack of care.

As most of you know you need to keep your home heated during the winter to prevent your pipes from freezing. If a buyer walks into a cold home, that sets the tone. You want your second home in Breckenridge to say “come in this cozy cabin and get warm and relax after a day of playing in the snow”.

If you live close enough or have friends here in Summit County, air out the home every once in awhile. It is easy for a second home to get that stuffy musty odor from being locked up all winter if no one is using it.

These are all small things but make a big difference in how quickly your second home will sell. We want your home to be the one people remember fondly and warmly.

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Second home vrs. investment property? What to consider.

Investment vrs second homeMost Buyers at some point reach a difficult real estate crossroads: Do they renovate an existing home to fit their current needs, or do they go out and buy another house that’s already the way they like it?

This is a question with no one-size-fits-all answer.

The most important issue is location. Are you buying a ski in ski out property for rentals or do you want something you and the family can enjoy as well? Or maybe you want a cabin in a more rural area of Breckenridge.

The second major question is budget: Is it more economical to renovate your new purchase or buy another one? The answer to this question will depend upon your desires, your budget and your needs. Many buyers tell me they want an older property so they can renovate. Before you do this, consider trying to do this if you live out of state. Many families can make this work and enjoy it. Also consider the higher cost of supplies and labor in the mountains.

After considering all this if you still want an older property, start with your list in hand. Consult with a realtor or builder. A realtor can discuss re-sale issues with you and a builder can tell you about pricing and timing.

With over 15 years in the Breckenridge real estate market, we do have a great team of people to refer you to. We are also happy to answer any questions you might have if this is an idea you are considering. Click the blue/gray “Live Chat” button above or click here to send us an email.