New Town Home Project in Jefferson Park!

It is clear that the Highlands neighborhood of Denver is hot with development right now. There seems to be a new project springing up on every block: from trendy, modern town houses to more contemporary apartment buildings. And with the jump in the number of available houses, more and more people are making the move to this up and coming neighborhood. And we are happy to announce another fabulous, modern town home project in the Jefferson Park neighborhood, named Decatur Row. Construction is about to begin on eight gorgeous town homes, with breathtaking views of downtown, Elitches, the Aquarium, Pepsi Center, and the Platte River Valley. These town homes are located on Decatur Street and are just blocks from Jefferson Park, the heart of LoHi, Riverfront Park and numerous restaurants, boutiques, and bars. Each town home will have 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and a 2-car garage. In addition to the 1229-1370 interior square feet, each unit has a rooftop deck that will only help to maximize the amazing views. The units are priced between $369-$389k, with two already under contract, and ground has not even broken yet! So if you are interested, give us a call today!

Planning Your Produce Shopping at Denver-Area Farmers Markets

For those looking to do their spring/summer produce shopping at Denver-area farmers markets, there are three main ones to consider visiting:

1.) CHERRY CREEK FRESH MARKET
Saturdays, May 5 – Oct 27, 8 am – 1 pm
& Wednesdays, Jun 20 – Sep 26, 9 am – 1 pm
1st Ave. & University Blvd.
2.) CITY PARK ESPLANADE FRESH MARKET
Sundays, May 13 – Oct 28, 9 am – 1 pm
E. Colfax Ave. & Columbine St.
3.) STAPLETON FARMERS MARKET
Sundays, Jun 17 – Oct 14, 8:30 am – 12:30 pm
E. 29th Ave. & Roslyn St.
These three markets are overseen by an organization called Colorado Fresh Markets, and have been referred to as the "Cadillac of farmers markets among nearly 50 markets throughout Colorado" according to Colorado Biz Magazine.

With a dedication to supporting local Colorado farmers, shoppers will find great selections of fresh produce and other amazing food. And to help you plan your shopping, Colorado Fresh Markets also offers a crop calendar that lists out when certain produce is in season.

Liz Richards Featured in New Issue of 5280

When 5280 wanted to talk about the things potential home buyers and sellers should think about, they knew they needed a real estate expert well-versed in the Denver market—so they contacted Liz Richards. For the magazine’s Denver Real Estate 2012 section in the latest issue, the editors tapped into Liz’s insight and experience to help readers navigate the local real estate market.

Location and Size
“There’s continued migration into the city, where people want pedestrian-friendly areas, don’t want to deal with commutes, and would rather have 1,600 square feet in a sensible, great location rather than 3,000 square feet farther out,” says Liz.

Lifestyle and Quick Returns
“People have adjusted their paradigm and now realize that their house is more of a home than an investment. People want to be smart, but they’re buying it more for the emotional connection than because they think it’ll be worth more in a few years,” says Liz.

Liz was also consulted on the popularity of the Highlands neighborhood, saying that “Whether they’re buying or renting, people want to go where it’s hot.”

5280 mentioned some other key reasons for the increased demand to live in the Highlands:
1. Location—the rehabilitation of LoDo in many ways led to the Highlands renaissance. The nationwide new urbanism trend has renewed the appeal of city living, and once Denver erected the Millennium, Platte River, and Highland bridges, the seamless pedestrian and bicycle link between northwest Denver and downtown made it that much easier to walk or bike to work or to LoDo restaurants and recreation.
2. Mixing commercial and residential—the once-booming, later-dormant Highlands commercial areas have been revitalized over the past decade. It’s more than just the retail and restaurant hub at Highlands Square; the area is also bubbling over with mini-commercial districts such as 32nd Avenue and Zuni Street, along Tejon Street, and on Tennyson Street between 38th and 45th avenues.
3. Walkability—even if you aren’t heading downtown or out to eat, Highlands itself has plenty of attractions for the everyday pedestrian, such as Sloan’s Lake to the west and the Platte River trails to the east. There are plenty of parks—a boon to the growing number of young families in the area—and they’re spread out enough that the nonparents aren’t constantly fighting stroller traffic like in more congested parts of the city. And between historic Victorians, well-kept bungalows, Denver Squares, and vibrant new construction, a walk in Highlands is like a self-guided architectural tour.

Do you have other questions about the Denver real estate market and/or living in the Highlands? Contact us today for the answers.

Casual Drinks, Amazing Homes—Progressive Cocktail Party on April 12

It’s that time of year again—when the sun extends days into nights, when restaurant patios start to fill up after a workday, and when we get excited about our favorite summer cocktails. So to kick the season of right, we are hosting a modern, progressive cocktail party next Thursday.

Here are the details:

WHEN: Thursday April 12 from 5-7:30pm

WHERE: Three amazing, modern homes in Denver

947 South Gilpin Street
654 Ivanhoe Street
727 Forest Street

WHY: Because it’s no longer winter and these homes offer a perfect setting to enjoy the warm weather in style, along with some drinks and good conversation.

What’s your favorite summer cocktail? You can’t go wrong with a margarita or mojito, but we’re also excited to try something new, like these suggestions from epicurious.com.

Pimm's Cup: A mix of Pimm's No. 1, ginger beer or ginger ale, and fresh mint garnished with a cucumber slice.

Royal Blush: A blend of cherry purée, vodka, fresh lime juice, simple syrup, fresh mint leaves, and brut Champagne.

Downtown Denver’s Fourth Quarter 2011 Economic Report -

The fourth quarter economic data indicates that Downtown Denver’s economy is on an upswing, consistent with national forecasts that 2012 could be a “gear year,” where consumers are more comfortable spending. The fourth quarter of 2011 emphasized several strengths and weaknesses in Downtown Denver’s recovery. For example, while many of the indicators are positive, such as low retail and office vacancy rates, high retail sales tax collections and increasing hotel occupancy rates and room rates, the retail and office lease rates still haven’t returned to pre-recession levels. Read the full Downtown Denver economic report, online.

Don’t have time to read the whole report? Check out the first page (the executive summary) to catch up on the highlights.

The Downtown Denver Partnership produces an array of research to support Downtown’s overall economic development, retail and housing efforts. The research can be found on DDP’s website. As part of its research portfolio, DDP produces comprehensive reports each quarter that provide a holistic perspective on the overall economic health of Downtown. If you have any questions or would like additional information, please contact Cole Judge, Downtown Research Coordinator, at cjudge@downtowndenver.com.

Join us for an evening of Modernism!

****When
February 16th 5pm-8pm

****Where
947 South Gilpin Street, Denver

****What
Come check out the captivating design of 947 South Gilpin which is Elevate.

Stop by and enjoy some fabulous wine and nibbles.

947 South Gilpin Street
Wash Park modernist Zen retreat. Floor to ceiling windows abound in this modern dwelling on one of Wash Park's best blocks. Clerestory windows, 11 ft ceilings, European styled kitchen, dramatic open great room, finished basement with workout room, over sized 2 car attached garage, and thoughtfully concise design with sleek finishes, make this a home that will knock your socks off. Eat-in kitchen nook, formal dining room, dramatic great room, 4 bedrooms on second floor plus 5th bedroom in basement and 4 1/2 baths combine to make an extremely functional floor plan.

Artwork Provided by PLUS GALLERY
Since 2001 Plus Gallery has developed a program that is widely considered one of the most prominent and reputable for contemporary art in Denver, representing regional and national artists of renown. The gallery relocated to a custom designed space in North Downtown Denver in 2009, a unique renovation of a parcel of the historic Benjamin Moore Paint Factory. The gallery was named "Art Space of the Year" in 2009 by the Denver Post and has been praised consistently for it's exhibitions, artists and programs over the last 10 years. The full gallery profile is available online at www.plusgallery.com

Featured Artist KATE PETLEY
Kate Petley's work addresses the subtleties of location and atmosphere, referring to the edges where nature bumps up against the urban environment. Her installations, two-dimensional works, and sculpture emphasize the unusual beauty of our everyday world. Petley's work is found in the collections of the Nicolaysen Museum, Houston Airport System, The Federal Reserve Bank, UCLA Santa Monica Hospital, Denver Children's Hospital, the Hyatt and Mariott Hotels, and private individuals across the country. Petley has exhibited throughout the US for over twenty years, most recently at the prestigious Scope Art Fair in Miami, 2011.

Latest Projects In Denver's Hottest Neighborhood

Lohi Row

Dramatic townhomes in the heart of Lohi. This is a new project by Sprocket, one of the city’s leading architectural and Design/Build firms known for their mastery of form and function and quality! The project consists of 12 town homes ranging from 2 bedrooms + study and 2-3 bathrooms, 1300-1485 square feet, and priced from $399k-$439k.

More features for Lohi Row:
• Fabulous open floor plans
• 10-13 foot ceilings
• European finishes
• Oversized windows
• Chroma Quartz Slab Countertops
• Euro Style custom cabinetry
• Stainless steel appliances
• Attached garages
• Hardwood floors
• Prewired rooms for surround sound
• Fireplaces
• Media center
• Amazing design nuances
• Private rooftop decks
• Jaw dropping views of Denver’s cityscape and Rocky Mountains
• Prewired outdoor entertainment spaces plumbed w/ gas and water to accommodate hot tubs

Latest Projects in Denver’s Hottest Neighborhood

Umatilla 4

Four gorgeous modern townhomes in the heart of Lohi are being built just ½ block away from Lola, Vita, Linger, and Little Man Ice Cream.

These uber modern townhomes will have sleek euro-style finishes that will not disappoint. Designed with amazing outdoor spaces which consist of a private yard, second floor balcony, and spacious rooftop decks! Other townhome details are: sleek European styled cabinetry, ribbon/river rock fireplace, oak floors, chromastone slab counter tops, 1625 sq ft, 2 bedrooms, 2 and 1/2 bathrooms, and 2 car garages.

• 2939 Umatilla St. $499,000 2 beds 2.5 baths and 1625 sq ft
• 2941 Umatilla St. $489,000 2 beds 2.5 baths and 1625 sq ft
• 2943 Umatilla St. $499,000 2 beds 2.5 baths and 1625 sq ft
• 2945 Umatilla St. $489,000 2 beds 2.5 baths and 1625 sq ft

Free Trees Offered to All Denver Residents This Spring

Applications Due Feb.15, 2012

Denver, CO- This spring only, all Denver residents are eligible for free trees regardless of where they live within the city. All Denver areas including but not limited to City Park, Washington Park, Highlands, LOHI, and Sloans Lake. This rare opportunity is made possible by two different tree distribution programs: The Park People’s annual Denver Digs Trees street tree program and the City’s Mile High Million tree planting initiative.

The Park People’s Paige Heydon says, “We’re thrilled to be part of this exciting partnership that is sure to add thousands of trees to Denver neighborhoods across the city.” She goes on to say, “The trees are being offered at no cost. It’s a win for the city’s urban forest and a win for Denver residents.

Any City and County resident of Denver can apply for free trees to plant along the street in the public right of way. Those who have space for trees on the west side of their homes in front, back, or side yards along the street are eligible to have trees ordered and planted for them.

According to Sara Davis, the program Manager for Denver Parks and Recreation’s Mile High Million Program, trees planted on the west side of houses not only offer wonderful shade, they also reduce energy consumption, “With that in mind, we are happy to offer the trees and the planting free of charge.

Availability will be limited, so apply no later than February 15, 2012. Visit www.theparkpeople.org or call 303-722-6262 for application information.

Denver’s City Forester Rob Davis says, “Trees beautify neighborhoods, improve property values, provide environmental services, and support good health by encouraging people to spend time outdoors. This is a great opportunity for Denver residents to enhance their neighborhoods.”

The Denver Digs Trees program is able to offer free street trees to all Denver residents this spring thanks to a partnership with Denver Parks and Recreation Forestry Division and the sponsorship of Xcel Energy Foundation and the City of Denver’s Office of Economic Development. The Mile High Million’s Trees for Energy Savings program is made possible with funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

St. Luke's Row is near completion

This property is ready to show arrange for your showing now. The project consists of the following: 10 modern townhome ranging in price from $299k-$379k, 2-3 beds/2-3 baths, all have attached 2 car garages, and no HOA fees! These Sprocket DESIGN/BUILD modern townhomes marry form and function in seamless contemporary architecture. Modern elegance exists throughout with slick Euro finishes, slab Chroma stone counters, Bosch stainless steel appliances, private balconies, great room, 2 car garage, and two spacious master suites! To download floorplans and site plan go to www.StLukesRow.com.

Competing Union Station Plans Bring Different Benefits to Denver

According to an article by Margaret Jackson in the Denver Post, dated 11/13/2011 the benefits are looked at over a 60 year lease term for both proposals for Union Station.

One proposal by the Union Station Alliance is for a boutique hotel to be built. They would like to transform the station into a 130 room boutique hotel, transforming the historic building into a hotel with the train room serving as the lobby, have local and national tenants, everything from quick serve to gourmet grab and go and a 24 hour diner. They are saying it would be “Denver’s living room”. This team estimates it will pay RTD $65 million over the term, generate $130 million in taxes, and create hundreds of jobs. This project would be financed with 11.5 million in equity, 7.5 million from the sale of tax credits, 50 percent debt, and 17 million from RTD. In the article Mark Falcone, whose company Continuum Partners makes up half the Union Station Neighborhood Team, says “ To risk that community asset by putting debt on it doesn’t make sense.” Falcone, goes on to say, “that a hotel lobby would not be able to handle the volume of expected passengers to move through the station which will serve as the model transit hub.” RTD anticipates 100,000 passengers a day which is only 40,000 less than what DIA handles a day on average.

Union Station Neighborhood Co. estimates its plan to generate $42.5 million over the same 60 year term. Their proposal features a Terminal Bar at the current Amtrak ticket window, and cafés, and office space on the second and third floors. This team has identified 22 million in available sourcing including 17 million from RTD, 2 million equity investment from the developer, and 3 million in tax credits that would enable the work on the project to start immediately. One of the benefits of this plan is it does not use debt to leverage the project so there is no risk of losing this public asset to any lenders. This proposal generates enough revenue to RTD to cover operating costs to the building and gives them a long term capital repair and maintenance fund,” says Frank Cannon, development director for the project.

This Denver Post article ends mentioning a quote from Bill Mosher, senior managing director and principal of Trammell Crow who is representing the Denver Union Station Project Authority. “This building is the gateway and iconic representation of the (Fas Tracks) project and it needs to be active and it needs to be fun. Having the public place being primarily the train hall and having active uses in the wing buildings on the main floor is critical. I think both proposals do that in different ways.”

St. Luke's Row is near Completion!

St. Luke's Row is near completion! Arrange for your showing now. The project consists of the following: 10 modern townhomes ranging in price from $299k-$379k, 2-3 beds/2-3 baths, all have attached 2 car garages, and no HOA fees! These Sprocket DESIGN/BUILD modern townhomes marry form and function in seamless contemporary architecture. Modern elegance exists throughout with slick Euro finishes, slab Chroma stone counters, Bosch stainless steel appliances, private balconies, great room, 2 car garage, and two spacious master suites! To download floorplans and site plan go to www.StLukesRow.com.

An Exquisite Work of Art

1730 West 35th Avenue
This home will mesmerize with its acute attention to every detail and abundance of natural light. A brilliant marriage of form and function, the architecture of this Lohi home will wow. Designed by Studio Completiva, and appropriately named the "5280 House", this home truly gives the sense of being on top of the world. Sweeping and unobstructed views of downtown and the mountains are served up in the great room. Other details include 11 foot ceilings, over 9300 square foot lot, Thermador appliances, custom European style flush cabinetry, sexy master suite, Carrera Marble baths, each floor has its own private outdoor space, 2.5 car garage, and extensive yard and patio space. Walk to some of the best restaurants in town, this home has it all.

Endless Opportunity!

3617 Osage Street
One of a kind opportunity in Highland! Own a piece of history! The original Cerrone's market is once again available! Property features a large open market area currently leased to a dance studio and an attached residence for extra income.

Check out Liz's new listing

3828 Tejon Street - $ 399,000


Denver Square with a presence! City Views, 3rd floor master suite with walk in closet and a 5 piece master bath! This home still has the original wood work in it. Also, slab granite, stainless steel appliances, new roof, new high efficiency furnace, 2300+ square feet up and fabulously landscaped yard.

New Listing in Wash Park!

947 South Gilpin


Wash Park modernist Zen retreat. Floor to ceiling windows abound in this modern dwelling on one of Wash Park's best blocks. Clerestory windows, 11ft ceilings, European styled kitchen, dramatic open great room, finished basement with workout room, over sized 2 car attached garage, and thoughtfully concise design and sleek finishes, make this a home that will knock your sox off. Eat-in kitchen nook, formal dining room, dramatic great room, 4 bedrooms on second floor plus 5th bedroom in basement and 4 1/2 baths combine to make an extremely functionality floorplan.

Year Built: New Construction
Sq. Ft: 4557
Bedrooms: 5
Bathrooms: 4.5
Garage: 2 car large garage

Hot Hood - Sunnyside

Check out what 5280 Magazine has to say about Sunnyside.

"Sunnyside's Inventory of affordable homes is low, so potential buyers must act fast."

Sunnyside maybe a bit grittier than its more expensive neighbors, but it lures cutting-edge types who are willing to endure the "refinement" process rather than wait intil everything has been upgraded (and potentially oeverpriced). Sunnyside's usually affordable homes-lots of modest bungalows-mean inventory is low, so buyers must be prepared to act fast.

Some of Liz's listings in Sunnyside:
1. 4580 Clay Street - Already under contract
3. 1733 W. 39th Ave - Call Liz to see listing

Check out Liz's new listing

3649 Clay Street - $319,000


Charm galore permeates every inch of this home. Top notch remodel which includes stylish kitchen, bath, plantation shutters, and exceedingly open floorplan. Fireplace, custom touches throughout and stylishly appointed. Front porch, backyard, and interior floor plan are an entertainer's dream. Other features include: stainless steel appliances, evaporative cooler, slab countertops, and custom tile.
Call Liz to set up a showing - 303-820-2489

Only 2 Units Left - www.Vallejostreettownhomes.com

ONLY 2 UNITS LEFT:
1. 3139 Vallejo - $329,000
2 beds, 2 bath
Great Rooftop!

2. 3145 Vallejo - $489,000
3 beds, 3 bath




http://www.lizrichardsrealestate.com/VallejoStreetTownhomes/

5280 Magazine Quotes Liz - Hilltop

Hilltop:
"I think at one point many sellers truly believed they could get Malibu pricing in this area, " says Liz Richards, a broker at Kentwood City Properties. "But after an abysmal few years, we're finally seeing movement in this area, thanks to strategic price drops and pent-up demand."