Explore the pros and cons of selling your home before buying or buying before selling in an uncertain market. Find the best strategy for your situation.
Read moreBackup Plans: Backup Generators for Emergency Situations
150,000 customers in Boulder County lost power last weekend, many for 2-3 days with little advance warning. In the wake of the Marshall Fire, Xcel Energy took the step of preemptively cutting power before a major wind event, then needed time to visually inspect 600 miles of power lines before they could turn power back on for all their customers.
This left many folks wondering about a backup plan— backup generator, that is. A generator can keep an entire household running, sometimes for several days or longer, ensuring your food stays cold in your refrigerator and your heat stays on at night. For those in rural properties with wells, loss of power also means loss of water, so a backup generator can be essential.
What are the main types of backup generators?
Portable Gas Generators - these are the small, noisy units you see at campgrounds. One of the most affordable types of generators, these function well but can require up to 20 gallons of gas PER DAY. They are also noisy and produce carbon monoxide so they need to be outside and a good distance from the home, but also cannot be exposed to the elements. The home occupant also needs to be present to turn it on when the power goes out.
Natural Gas/Propane generator - These units can be installed within 18” of a home and make about the same amount of noise as AC compressor. They can run on natural gas or propane, switch automatically when power is lost, and can be monitored via bluetooth or wifi on a phone. Cost is around $5000 for a 20kW unit and another $1500 - $5000 for installation. They also require some annual maintenance. However, they can power your home indefinitely and you do not need to be home to switch over to it as source of power.
Solar/Battery generator - These units use solar power (and also grid power) to charge batteries at optimal times, then can be engaged when power is lost in the home. They are silent and produce no emissions. The Tesla Powerwall is a prime example of this, but there are several others. Cost is between $9k-$15k for these and sometimes more, however you may be eligible for a 30% federal tax credit after purchasing.
Learn more about the 12 Best Generators for 2024 according to Popular Mechanics.
Love It or List It? Weighing Renovation Against Relocation
Making the big decision between renovating your current home or moving to a new one? This comprehensive guide breaks down the factors you need to consider, from long-term goals and market timing to interest rates and renovation realities. Get informed to make the choice that's right for you.
Read moreWhat on earth is happening with the NAR settlement?
What on earth is happening with the NAR settlement?
It’s been a week of big news in the real estate world, but perhaps not quite what you’ve been reading. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) announced they settled an ongoing lawsuit that alleged they conspired to keep real estate commissions artificially high by coupling buyer/seller agent commissions together and putting the onus on the seller to pay both. So what does this mean for home buyers and home sellers? Read through to find out.
Read moreKaren Featured in January 2023 Boulder County Real Producers Magazine
We are thrilled to start the New Year off by introducing Karen’s feature in Boulder County Real Producers Magazine!
After being nominated by a friend, Karen was interviewed and photographed for the feature, highlighting her vibrant background in the music industry. This history sets the stage for a real estate experience that's as unique as a punk rock concert in a classical music hall.
Dive into Karen's journey from the high-energy world of music to the dynamic field of real estate. Share her story of moving from New York to Boulder, her tenure in the music industry, and the serendipitous lunch that pivoted her career toward real estate:
"Karen Straus, a Realtor® with 8z Real Estate Boulder, stands out like a punk rocker at a classical concert.
With a background deeply rooted in the music industry, Karen has orchestrated her way into the world of real estate, bringing a touch of rock and roll to the normally staid housing market. Originally a New Yorker with dreams of making it big in concert production, Karen found herself trading the skyscrapers of the Big Apple for the serene mountains of Boulder, Colorado in 2000. Tired of the concrete jungle’s madness, she sought the complete opposite in the tranquility of the Rockies. Karen continued her pursuit in the music industry and says, “A lot of people don’t realize the Denver metro area is a pretty big draw. Boulder has been a hot spot for music for a long time, and almost every major tour stops through here. Before getting into real estate, I spent two decades working in the music business. Ten years of that was spent in the role of VP of Production and Production Manager at the Fox Theater and the Boulder Theater, which are two iconic music hubs.”
But, as we all know, life can throw curveballs, and when the pandemic hit, everything in the concert world came to a halt. Looking back, it was actually a sign. After years of the exhilarating concert production lifestyle, endless nights, and early mornings, the constant buzz became a bit too much, especially now that Karen was married and with two small children. It was time for a change.
Enter Ande Rice, Karen’s friend, and partner in her real estate adventures. One day, Karen and Ande were having lunch, with Karen releasing her frustrations about the music industry burnout. And then, like a beacon of career wisdom, Ande says, “Why not get into real estate? Come work with me.” It started as a casual suggestion, but it took off from day one. It was like the universe had orchestrated this perfect career switch. And just like that, Karen found herself bringing in her own clients and becoming part of a real estate dream team at RE/MAX of Boulder.
Karen’s transition from music to real estate might seem like a giant leap, but surprisingly, the skills she honed in the music industry found a place in real estate. From negotiating concert contracts to navigating the technicalities of sound systems, Karen now expertly handles real estate contracts, inspections, and the intricacies of home systems.
As a self-proclaimed “elder millennial,” Karen specializes in connecting with frustrated millennials looking to break into the housing market. She is breaking down the barriers and helping them realize that homeownership is still within reach.
“This market has seen a lot of frustrated buyers in the past few years comparing their experience with that of their parents, and it’s just not the same market,” she explains. “I think a lot of folks don’t realize how many options they actually have.”
Karen is involved in the community in several ways. There is an awesome event called First Bite, Boulder’s version of restaurant week. Karen says, “It is the perfect blend of everything I love – community vibes and amazing food. It is all about spotlighting the local dining scene, a celebration of food that brings the community together.”
Karen has teamed up with Savor Productions, who owns First Bite, and they’ve crafted a series of blog posts of Boulder County’s neighborhoods called Love Thy Neighbor[hood]. “I handle the real estate details, and they dive into the vibrant local food scene. It’s a perfect fusion of our worlds - where real estate meets community gastronomy.”
Another collaborative effort Karen is working on involves partnering with a designer friend to organize workshops. Together, they will guide people through the decision-making process of whether to sell or renovate, mirroring the concept of HGTV’s Love It or List It show.
Furthermore, Karen is hands-on with the Boulder Jewish Community Center (JCC), where her kids attended preschool for years starting at a young age. She lends a hand with various fundraisers throughout the year. Her take “When my kids were little, we counted on scholarships to get them through those JCC days. It is a good feeling, paying it forward.”
During Karen’s downtime, her family loves riding bikes together. Karen and her husband, Nate, met while volunteering at a community bike shop in Boulder called Community Cycles. Bikes have created a shared connection now that the kiddos are old enough to ride. “On Saturday mornings, we cruise to the farmers’ market - ket or hit up the candy store – just riding around town as a family. It is a great way for all of us to hang out. Plus, we are getting into skiing. The whole crew is learning, and we bought ski passes this year, so we are really excited about that.”
The Straus family took their first big trip to Europe in May visiting Iceland and England. The kids were rockstars and loved every - thing about it – even the little things, like the plane ride or the shuttle bus from the airport to the rental car. “They’re always talking about the trip, and it is cool to see them totally get how special it was. It wasn’t just a regular vacation – it was a big deal, and they knew that.”
In closing, Karen states, “If there is one takeaway from this piece, it is my unwavering belief in authenticity; I don’t ever want to be seen as a generic real estate agent. Maintaining that authenticity is crucial to me. Supporting others in the community is also a big part of who I am. It’s all about connections with people and the beauty of collaboration. I steer clear of the generic and inject a bit of rock and roll into the real estate scene. Expect humor, a touch of self-deprecation, and a whole lot of edginess because, hey, who said real estate can’t be fun and unique?”
Photos by: Liv Michele Berger of The Headshot Gal & Story by Christine Bowen of Boulder County Real Producers.
Also, be sure to connect with Karen for a real estate experience that's as unique and vibrant as her background!
Plugging into the Future: Your Quick Guide to Installing a Home EV Charging Station
For those who currently own or are contemplating acquiring an electric vehicle, a key consideration should be the feasibility of installing an EV charging station at your home. The top things to note include:
Assessing Your Home’s Electrical Capacity: Before proceeding, ensure your electrical system can handle the charger. Many homes have a 100-amp panel; upgrading to a 200-amp panel could be a prudent decision, particularly if you plan to charge more than one EV.
Selecting the Right Charger: You'll mostly be deciding between Level 1 and Level 2 chargers. Level 1 is slower, while Level 2 offers quicker charging. Level 3 isn’t typically suitable for residential use.
DIY or Hire a Pro? While some homeowners opt for DIY installation, hiring an electrician is common and often the wiser choice, especially for those who value their time and want the job done right.
Installation Options: Level 2 chargers need a 240-volt connection. You can choose between a hard-wired installation or a more flexible plug-in option, akin to a dryer outlet. The latter is handy if you might relocate the charger in the future.
Professional Installation and Compliance: Adherence to the National Electric Code is crucial for a safe installation. This includes proper placement, electrical capacity, and sometimes local permits and inspections.
Smart Charging Set-Up: If you opt for a WiFi-enabled charger, you can enjoy the benefits of scheduling charging during off-peak hours for cost efficiency.
If you're transitioning to an electric vehicle, installing a home charger becomes a necessity. Unlike a quick gas station stop, charging an EV can take at least 15 minutes or more. Having a charger at home offers undeniable convenience and efficiency. Be sure to look into programs from our local power providers, like the EV Acelerate At Home program from Xcel Energy. As always, if you have any questions about how adding a charger could affect your home's value, feel free to get in touch.
Join Our "One Warm Coat" Drive and Spread the Warmth This Winter
As the chilly winds begin to blow and the days grow shorter, the warmth of community and giving becomes ever more important. That's why we at 8z Real Estate are excited to announce that we are hosting a "One Warm Coat" drive across many of our offices. This winter, we are committed to not just serving our clients but also those in our community who need a little extra warmth.
What is the "One Warm Coat" Drive?
"One Warm Coat" is a national non-profit organization that works to provide provide free coats to children and adults in need while promoting volunteerism and environmental sustainability. This initiative supports individuals, groups, companies, and organizations across the country to collect coats and distribute them to people in need.
How You Can Participate
Participating is simple and profoundly impactful. All it takes is a rummage through your closets for gently-used, warm clothing that you or your family no longer wear. We’re accepting coats, sweaters, jackets, mittens, hats, and scarves. Once you've gathered the items you'd like to donate, check out our link in the bio to find the nearest drop-off location or reach out to me directly to arrange for pick-up.
Our Drop-Off Locations
8z Real Estate has set up collection spots at the following offices:
8z Boulder: Embrace the spirit of giving in the heart of the Rockies.
8z Colorado Springs: Your contribution can make a significant difference in our vibrant community.
8z Denver Central: Join the bustling heart of Denver in spreading warmth.
8z Denver Tech Center: Technology meets charity in our Tech Center office.
8z Longmont: Longmont's generosity is unmatched; let’s show it!
8z Broomfield / Louisville: Warm the hearts and bodies of those in Broomfield and Louisville.
8z Northern Colorado: Help us make Northern Colorado a warmer place to live.
8z Parker / Castle Rock: Your warmth can fortify the strong community of Parker and Castle Rock.
8z Southwest Denver: Share the warmth in the diverse and dynamic Southwest Denver.
8z Vail Valley: Let's make the winter wonderland of Vail Valley a bit more warm for everyone.
Drive Dates
The coat drive starts now and will run through December 29th. This gives you plenty of time to find those extra coats and items that could serve a better purpose.
Why Your Donation Matters
Your donations do more than just keep someone warm; they convey a message of care and community. It's about the comforting thought that someone out there is looking out for others. In these trying times, such gestures of kindness and solidarity are priceless.
Share some warmth
Get involved today and donate a coat and clothing!
This winter, let's come together as a community to make a difference. Your gently worn coats and warm clothing can bring comfort and support to those in need. Visit us at the 8z Real Estate Boulder Office, or reach out to me for pick-up, and help spread the warmth!
Unleash the Power of Fall Leaves!
Autumn leaves are more than a visual delight—they're nutrient-rich gifts for your garden! Avoid letting them wash into waterways or suffocate your lawn. Instead, embrace these eco-friendly composting tips:
Read moreTemporary Vs Permanent Buydown - Which one is right for you?
If you've been shopping in the real estate market this year, you've probably heard about buy-down options to help reduce your mortgage interest rate. And if not, let me explain. In short, buyers can ask the sellers for a concession, generally a dollar amount that can be used towards reducing the interest rate on their mortgage. For the seller, this is the equivalent of a price reduction, but for a buyer, it opens up several options.
Read moreSign Up to Receive Our Fresh (and totally not Generic) Newsletter!
What's Happening in the Market?
It's no secret that the market has cooled considerably. But what does this mean for our clients?
For our sellers, it means more work on the front end to prepare their home for listing. Never has it been more important to present a home at its best: this means clean and free of clutter, pre-inspected and properly staged. Pricing for the current market (and not the March 2022 market) is also essential.
For buyers, there is finally some breathing room. We've been writing offers for less than asking price and retaining contingencies for inspections and appraisals. Interest rates have seen a sharp increase but lenders have responded with some creative loan products to help ease buyers' pain.
Want to hear more about buying or selling in the current market? Give us a shout.
March 2019 Boulder County Buzz
Hello Friend,
All over the state Colorado-ans are celebrating the fantastic winter we've been so fortunate to receive! Remember last year when the ski resorts had to MAKE SNOW? Not so much this year! Our community has enjoyed bountiful snowfalls and plentiful opportunities to get out and enjoy all of our favorite snow sports. (Like shoveling the driveway?!)
Temperatures remain brisk, but the sun is shining longer, brighter, and warmer here in Boulder County! As everyone starts to emerge from their winter hibernation, it's the perfect time to consider listing your home before summer inventory starts to swell.
If you're thinking about selling, I can help you transform your "everyday home" into a magnificent "show home" in no time.
February 2019 Boulder County Buzz
Love is in the air in Boulder County
Hello Friend,
It's February and love is buzzing through the air here in Boulder County. I absolutely adore this time of year as an opportunity to enjoy love, and cozy evenings indoors with my close friends and family. The restaurants on Pearl Street offer a warm oasis from the blustery weather, while the lights outside twinkle under the snow covered trees. Or perhaps you're one of the lucky ones enjoying the sumptuous glow of your own indoor fireplace.
Will you be making the ultimate romantic gesture this year; purchasing a new home for your family? Read about the ups and downs in the national housing market in an article from The Denver Post. Also, 5280 Magazine gives a breakdown of how monthly expenses in 2019 could look for you. And The Daily Camera debates if the land sale by Shining Mountain Waldorf School should be used for affordable housing in Boulder.
Let's connect soon to discuss your real estate goals for 2019, and market conditions here in Boulder County. Call me and we can discuss your options!
January 2019 Boulder County Buzz →
Happy New Year! If you're anything like me, the coming of the new year is always the time when I pause and evaluate my goals for the upcoming twelve months. Is buying a home or selling your current property on that to do list? Here are some Boulder County real estate market considerations to help you plan and prepare to buy or sell.
Check out the 2019 housing market predictions from Forbes Magazine, and scope the new furniture trends of 2019 to spruce up your space. And are you having issues getting home insurance because of the increases in wildfires? You're not alone, so learn about a program in Boulder County trying to help homeowners get insured.
If you'd like to discuss how any of these trends impact your goals, give me a call! I want to help YOU make 2019 a year to remember!
Read the entire Buzz by Clicking Here.
December, 2018 Boulder County Buzz →
Wishing You and Your Family a Happy Holidays!
Tis the season for yearly projections of what's to come in our real estate market in 2019. As we transition into the new year I reflect on the complex year we've had, with average home sales prices in Boulder hitting almost $1.2M in November. Pundits profess that the market is likely to balance out next year, but we'll have to wait and see what actually happens. Also, don't miss the fun housing design trend article with inspirational ideas for updating your home in the next year.
I hope your time with family and loved ones this season is joyous, and I look forward to connecting in 2019. And THANK YOU for your continued business and referrals. Happy New Year!
Read the complete Boulder County Buzz here.
November, 2018 Boulder County Buzz →
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your Loved Ones!
As we look forward to times with our family and friends, I'd like to share news about a few key things happening with our real estate market. The articles this month discuss the complex situation in Boulder County with home prices going up, and the impact that has on our cities. This relates to the rental market here as well, and how the new construction in town has had an impact.
Thank you so much for your continued business, and for all of your referrals. With warmth and gratitude I wish all of you a Happy Thanksgiving!
September, 2018 Boulder County Buzz →
September Brings Interesting News and More
The evenings are cooler and the kids are back in school, which means September is upon us, and with this change comes some changes in our Real Estate market. With these changes, questions arise regarding how we price homes and will changing interest rates effect sales in our area? Read the featured articles below for more info.
It's been a big year so far for Real Estate in Boulder County with median sales prices for single family homes up 7% over last year, and it will be exciting to see how the Fall market and the second half of the year will unfold.
If you have any questions about the current market or anything regarding your Real Estate decisions or your home, I am here and would love to chat.
August, 2018 Boulder County Buzz
Boulder County is Popular in the News this Month
Real Estate in Boulder County is still as active and busy as ever. See the July Stats below for more details. The Buzz this month highlights a fun feature on the city of Boulder from the Washington Post. Check it out! It's great to see our local city and many of our favorite businesses getting so much attention. This will probably inspire more people to move here...which is great for sellers, but means more competition for buyers.
Another interesting trend that's affecting our local real estate market is the high number of seniors moving to Colorado. Did you know that this is one of the top places in the country to retire?
Also, it's that time of year again for back to school...and the good news is, your kids can do their homework on Pearl Street now because Google has brought free WiFi to the pedestrian mall.
Thanks for being such a wonderful client, and definitely let me know how I can support you with your real estate needs. Read the complete August Buzz here.
July, 2018 Boulder County Buzz
Boulder County's Thriving Market and Mid-Year Report
Is it possible the average price of a home is almost $1,250,000.00 in the city of Boulder? Have condos and townhomes really gone up 13.7%+ in the city of Boulder last year? Perhaps…perhaps not.
We're halfway through 2018 already, and the Mid-Year Stats reveal information you don't want to miss!
The Buzz this month also features some tips on what you can do with your real estate equity, as well as an article from RE/MAX of Boulder’s owner discussing the average price of homes in the city of Boulder. What does that mean for the rest of the year? How will the Fall market play out? Only time will tell.
With all the fascinating events happening in our area, I hope you have a wonderful rest of your summer. And by next month some of us will already be getting ready for Back to School! Read the complete Buzz here.
June 2018 Boulder County Buzz
Boulder County is Busy and Thriving this Summer
Happy Summer Solstice everyone! The summer heat is here and Boulder County is getting a lot of attention — with a local city (Superior) having scored slots on several “Best Places to Live” lists, and countless fun and creative events happening throughout the summer.
Check out the article below from BizWest outlining the recent Boulder Economic Summit, and learn how our real estate market is impacted by both housing and transportation issues. May Stats are in: inventory is fluctuating, and prices are continuing to rise. The Buzz this month explores these topics and more!
Hidden Storage Opportunities in Your Kitchen
Check out this wonderful article from Houzz with many suggestions on how to efficiently store items in your Kitchen! The article begins by reminding readers that "Using all the available space in your kitchen will reduce clutter and improve organization. So whether your kitchen is large or small, these space-saving storage ideas will work wonders. It’s just a matter of standing still and looking closely at what’s in front of you." Read the full article here.