Q2 – 2014

Housing seemed to have a slow start to the spring selling season, but appearances deceive. Dig into that spring soil and you begin to unearth differences in individual areas and market segments.  Inventory is slowly rising in some areas.  Activity is picking up in the upper price tiers.  Rents continue to climb in most metros.  Add interest rates are generally lower than a year ago, to the surprise of some and the delight of others.

Local market update for Lake City (81235) comparing second quarter 2013 to 2014 – New Listings were up 36 percent for single family homes and 100 percent for townhouse-condo properties.  The Median Sales Price was up 36 percent to $230,000  for single family homes and Sold Home Listings up 25 percent.

Housing is one part of a broader ecosystem that thrives on a strong economy that churns out good jobs.  First-quarter employment figures were adequate but not thrilling, but second-quarter numbers figure to be more positive.  Access to mortgage capital remains an ongoing concern.  As cash and investor deals fade, first-time buyers typically step to the forefront, but tight credit can and has been a real hurdle.

This information is provided by the Gunnison Country Association of Realtor’s:  Quarterly Indicators Q2-2014

In 2013 the CAR (Colorado Association of Realtors) Education Foundation generously donated $20,000 to help fund the Carbon Monoxide Education campaign that is currently running.  This collaborative effort of CAR Public Awareness Campaign, Education Foundation, Fox31 and the Kidde Corporation mission is to help raise awareness of the dangers of carbon monoxide and to help residents and visitors to Colorado protect themselves from harm.

As part of the campaign they asked teens to put together a :30 second PSA (Public Service Announcement) about the dangers of Carbon Monoxide.  They had to touch on at least two of these points in the PSA:

• Carbon Monoxide is the leading cause of accidental poisoning deaths in America.
• Carbon Monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas produced by burning material containing carbon.
• Carbon Monoxide poisoning can cause brain damage and death.  You can’t see it, smell it or taste it:  but CO can kill you.
• Carbon Monoxide is produced by common household appliances we use every day.  When not properly ventilated, CO emitted by these appliances can build up.
• Early symptoms of CO poisoning such as headaches, nausea and fatigue, are often mistaken for the flu because the deadly gas goes undetected in a home.  Prolonged exposure can lead to brain damage and even death.
• You should annually inspect your home for hazards like your home heating system, your furnace and other appliances, such as gas ovens, ranges and cook tops are inspected for adequate ventilation.
• Do not burn charcoal inside your home (even in the fireplace).  Have fireplaces inspected each fall to ensure the pilot light burns safely.
• Do not operate gasoline-powered engines in confined areas such as garages or basements.  Do not leave your car, mower or other vehicle running in an attached garage, even with the door open.
• Do not block or seal shut exhaust flues or ducts for appliances such as water heaters, ranges and clothes dryers.

Visit the “Resources” tab at www.ColoradoREALTORS.com to learn more about the above benefits that include discounts on purchasing CO detectors.