Thursday, March 26, 2009

The Steamboat Springs Real Estate Market - Today

Today in the Steamboat Springs MLS there were 2068 properties for sale. In the last 30 days 21 properties have sold; there were price changes on 225 properties; and 217 "new" listings came on the market. Out of the 21 closed properties the mountain area had the most with 5. The downtown area sold 4. The price ranges were from $202,000 for a single family home and just over $1.5 million for a condo on the mountain. Single family homes averaged 205 days on the market while condos averaged 700 days on the market (possibly due to contracting early in the building stages). Out of the 21 solds single family homes dominated with 9 closings; the prices of the sold homes ranged from $202,000 - 1.2 million. There were three in the $300,000 range which was the dominate price range for closings. There are only three single family building permits applied for which is down from 2008 by 10 and down from 2007 by 27. We see many values in Steamboat – call me to learn about the “best buys” in your price range.

Interest rates continue to be at historic lows (Ed Allbright from Columbine Mortgage says a 30 year fixed can be had for 4.875%), with an abundance of properties on the market it’s a fabulous time to invest in Steamboat!


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If you are looking for a home site, completed home, condo or townhome, in or near Steamboat Springs, Colorado... Contact me: Michelle Diehl, GRI Broker Associate at Prudential Steamboat Realty.

I work as a Buyer's Agent for my clients. I also represent Sellers. If you are buying or selling in the Steamboat Springs or surrounding areas, I can provide what you need. I am paid my success fee only after you experience success!

Contact me today and let’s get started...


web: SteamboatDream.com
e-mail: MichelleDiehl@comcast.net
cell: 970.846.1086
office: 970.879.8100 EXT 434

Monday, March 23, 2009

Stagecoach Water Tap Fee Increases

Stagecoach Water Tap Fee Increase Ignites
Steamboat REALTORS®:

Last week, the Morrison Creek Water Board went
before the Routt County Commissioners to explain
their reasoning for raising water tap fees 375% to
build a new water treatment plant In the Stagecoach
Development. The fees will increase from $8,000 to
$30,000 for lot owners who have not developed their
properties. In a letter to the Morrison Creek Water
Board, the Steamboat Springs Board of REALTORS®
voiced concerns that fees will not be equally
applied to lot owners in Stagecoach. Owners who
have prepaid their fees will not be required to
contribute to plant improvements, and those landowners
who have not prepaid their tap fees will be
put at a competitive disadvantage when they sell
their property.

Current users in the Morrison Creek Water District
will not be required to contribute to the cost of the
new water treatment facility, despite the fact that
these users will benefit from the new plant. REALTORS®
also told the Morrison Creek Water Board
that the drastic fee increases have not been publicly
vetted in a way that is satisfactory to those that are
affected by the fee increase. At last week’s meeting,
the Water Board made overtures that they may allow
lot owners to prepay their fees before the fee
increase goes into effect.


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If you are looking for a home site, completed home, condo or townhome, in or near Steamboat Springs, Colorado... Contact me: Michelle Diehl, GRI Broker Associate at Prudential Steamboat Realty.

I work as a Buyer's Agent for my clients. I also represent Sellers. If you are buying or selling in the Steamboat Springs or surrounding areas, I can provide what you need. I am paid my success fee only after you experience success!

Contact me today and let’s get started...


web: SteamboatDream.com
e-mail: MichelleDiehl@comcast.net
cell: 970.846.1086
office: 970.879.8100 EXT 434

Steamboat 700 - Newsletter from Danny Mulcahy

Density--and Why It Matters
There’s been good discussion lately about how much growth is coming to Steamboat Springs, and to West Steamboat Springs in particular.

This discussion is a continuation of one that began more than a decade ago with the Steamboat Springs Area Plan, which was followed by the West of Steamboat Springs Area Plan adopted in 1999 and updated in 2006. The rationale behind those plans was to address a reality: Growth is coming.

Routt County’s population is projected to grow 71% over the next 20 years to almost 40,000 residents (source: Colorado Department of Local Affairs).

Current estimates call for more than 22,000 Steamboat Springs residents in 2035, about 10,000 more than today.

These plans—which form the framework of our Steamboat 700 plan—call for density on the west end of town as an important tool to manage growth and prevent sprawl.

Today’s congestion challenges on US40—which have existed for years, long before a single rooftop is ever built at Steamboat 700—can be addressed by creating more density in West Steamboat Springs. It sounds counter-intuitive, but adding more homes and more residents in a master-planned, mixed-use community will create a transit-friendly community that gets people out of their cars.

Density adjacent to the city also provides more opportunity for Steamboat Springs workers to live close to where they work, instead of increasing the ever-growing commuting pressure from Hayden and Craig on US40.

A major source of vehicle trips in West Steamboat Springs today is car trips through Old Town to access grocery stores and other services on the other side of town. The Steamboat 700 plan calls for mixed-use retail and services such day care, post office, employment centers and a grocery store, which should cut down on those cross-town car trips on US40.

Steamboat Springs Transit has limited service and stops in West Steamboat Springs today because there are not enough residents to justify more stops. More density at Steamboat 700 will enhance our transit system’s service on the west side of town, with more stops and more routes.

Density will help prevent sprawl and preserve the region’s environment. Fewer cars on the road and more use of alternate modes of travel (bike, transit, walking) will reduce air pollution, and help preserve the natural beauty of the Yampa Valley.
Importantly, density at Steamboat 700 will not “create” more demand to live or work in Steamboat Springs. On the contrary, density will allow the community to respond to a range of community needs and gaps that exist today, prevent the negative impacts of sprawl that could come in the future, and preserve the character of the community for future generations.




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If you are looking for a home site, completed home, condo or townhome, in or near Steamboat Springs, Colorado... Contact me: Michelle Diehl, GRI Broker Associate at Prudential Steamboat Realty.

I work as a Buyer's Agent for my clients. I also represent Sellers. If you are buying or selling in the Steamboat Springs or surrounding areas, I can provide what you need. I am paid my success fee only after you experience success!

Contact me today and let’s get started...


web: SteamboatDream.com
e-mail: MichelleDiehl@comcast.net
cell: 970.846.1086
office: 970.879.8100 EXT 434

Sunday, March 22, 2009

2.6 Acres at the Base of Steamboat Ski Area now Available

Got Money? If so, you can invest now in a joint venture at the base of the world class Steamboat Ski Area. Jamie Temple is offering a seldom seen joint venture opportunity for the right investor. He holds 2.6 acres of the best real estate in the valley. The site is currently staged to be the new location for the St. Cloud Resort and Spa. Due to economic conditions the project will be on hold temporarily to watch the economic trends. Jamie is looking for one more investor to complete his team. If you would rather purchase outright, the site can be purchased for $15 million. The location is directly across the street from the Grand Hotel and is the gateway to the Ski Time Square area at the base of the ski mountain.

If you are interested in a joint venture or full ownership contact Broker Associate Michelle Diehl at Prudential Steamboat Realty 970-846-1086 and I will get all the information you require to make an informed decision on this property.




..............................................

If you are looking for a home site, completed home, condo or townhome, in or near Steamboat Springs, Colorado... Contact me: Michelle Diehl, GRI Broker Associate at Prudential Steamboat Realty.

I work as a Buyer's Agent for my clients. I also represent Sellers. If you are buying or selling in the Steamboat Springs or surrounding areas, I can provide what you need. I am paid my success fee only after you experience success!

Contact me today and let’s get started...


web: SteamboatDream.com
e-mail: MichelleDiehl@comcast.net
cell: 970.846.1086
office: 970.879.8100 EXT 434

Steamboat Springs, Colorado - Improvements!

Mountain and Base Area Improvements (courtesy Steamboat Pilot)

Prepare To Pinch Yourself! Since 2006/07, nearly $30 million in on-mountain improvements have erupted at the Steamboat Ski Area--all designed to make your visit to Steamboat better! Look forward to enhanced terrain to challenge all levels of ability, faster and more comfortable chairlifts, expanded culinary options and remodeled restaurants, high-tech snowmaking and much more. In fact, about the only thing we haven't upgraded is something Mother Nature perfected years ago-and we certainly wouldn't want to mess with that!



ON-MOUNTAIN IMPROVEMENTS

2008-09: $4+ million
Snowmaking
Grooming Equipment
Meadows Parking Lot Expansion

2007-08: $16+ million
Christy Peak Express six-passenger, high-speed chairlift
Headwall beginner terrain re-grade

2006-07: $7+ million
Sunshine Express high-speed quad chairlift
Sunshine Bowl trail expansion and improvements
Renovated Thunderhead and Rendezvous food courts




MOUNTAIN AREA PROJECTS

Alpine Mountain Ranch and Club
Nestled in the unique Yampa Valley, defined by the mountains, open to the sky of sun and stars. The Alpine Mountain Ranch & Club is a premier private community: 1,216 acres of mountain living, dedicated open space, a 900 acre wildlife preserve, a blue heron rookery, an elk calving area with over 250 mature elk, and just 63 exceptional homesites. It's the story you live, the life you create . . . bordering Steamboat Springs.

Edgemont
Edgemont, a $175 million ski-in/ski-out project, with the ski village at its feet. Situated on the edge of the Steamboat Ski Resort, perched just above the base area, adjacent to the gondola and other chairlifts, the access to the mountain that Edgemont homeowners will experience is unprecedented in any other new property in Steamboat. With exterior courtyard views of the slopes, mountain views from every home and spectacular views overlooking the Yampa valley, families will be able to enjoy Steamboat's ski hill and surrounding area and all the ultimate comforts of a luxury home.

The Highmark at Steamboat Springs
The Highmark at Steamboat Springs is comprised of 23 world-class luxury vacation rentals adjacent to the base of the Steamboat Ski Resort. With services and amenities beyond which Steamboat has ever seen, the Highmark promises to deliver a vacation experience like no other.

One Steamboat Place
One Steamboat Place, a ski-in/ski-out destination, will be the cornerstone for the re-development of this world-class ski destination. All homeowners will enjoy a wealth of private luxury services and amenities. The ski-in ski-out enclave will offer an expansive plaza and will feature a tranquil zen-inspired spa, fitness and yoga facilities, outdoor pools and built-in grills on each of the villas decks, retail shops and private members' lounge and dining experience. A full-service concierge will ensure a worry-free experience for all homeowners. A children's concierge will be available to attend to all children-related activities, both on and off-site.

The Porches
Situated on over twenty acres right at the base of the mountain, The Porches' 3,100 to 5,000 square foot townhomes feature top-notch appliances, spectacular interior and exterior design, as well as exquisite furnishings and finishes. To enhance and simplify your vacations, the entire property is managed by an exclusive, on-site management company specifically created to provide you with all the amenities and services of a 5-star hotel.

The Sheraton
Sheraton Steamboat Resort is undertaking a $20 million redevelopment project, including the renovation of all common areas, including the lobby, both restaurants and all 191 guest rooms, as well as the addition of a club level. In addition to this $20 million project, the resort will be converting the existing Morningside suites and East Tower hotel rooms to 45 luxury two-and three-bedroom vacation ownership villas, Sheraton Steamboat Resort Villas, developed by Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc.

Ski Time Square and Thunderhead Lodge
With an investment by The Atira Group of $700 million, the Ski Time Square and Thunderhead Lodge redevelopment is a key component of Steamboa’s base area revitalization effort. Under development through a partnership of Cafritz Interests and The Atira Group, the seven-acre site will offer ski-in, ski-out access to new pedestrian-oriented mixed-use development along Burgess Creek at the ski area edge and provide an enhanced experience for visitors, residents and locals. Streamside and slopeside the site provides spectacular Storm Peak views, resort amenities, and a lively village setting.

St. Cloud Resort and Spa
St. Cloud Resort & Spa would enhance the Steamboat hotel experience with services including day care, a full service spa, restaurants, ballroom and conference facilities, a ski shop and related commercial space. Tentative plans for the St. Cloud call for 91 units to be devoted to a “condo-tel,” another 50 units would be marketed on a fractional basis, and 60 would be marketed as whole ownership units where owners would be encouraged to rent them out on a short-term basis. Of the gross square footage in the project, 377,820 would be devoted to residential space and 48,649 to commercial uses.

Strings in the Mountains
Strings Music Festival’s new permanent venue, the Strings Pavilion, a $4.3 million project, greets concert aficionados this summer. Designed by Bill Rangitsch of Steamboat Architectural Associates in conjunction with British Columbia-based Spearhead Timberworks, Strings Music Pavilion provides improved acoustics, the breathtaking views of the mountain peaks and roof lines arched like the bow strings of an instrument. While the stage has doubled in size, the seating capacity has remained similar to the tent at 550 seats with additional lawn seating outside.

Trailhead Lodge
Trailhead Lodge will be at the heart of the Wildhorse Meadows, Steamboat Springs' only residential resort community. Located only steps from the gondola and the many neighborhood amenities, Trailhead Lodge's fully furnished residential suites will embody the character of Wildhorse Meadows by incorporating the authentic heritage of the area with the comforts of today.

Wildhorse Meadows
Wildhorse Meadows, a 47-acre site, being developed by Steamboat-based Resort Ventures West, is centrally located between the mountain and downtown, and will be connected to the base of Steamboat Ski Area via a new proposed gondola. This unique residential resort community plans to offer a mix of housing types including resort lodge suites, townhomes, mountain lofts, a branded hotel, and attainable housing, along with a wide variety of community amenities.



PUBLIC PROJECTS ON THE MOUNTAIN

New Bus and Shuttle Stop at Ski Time Square
A new bus and shuttle stop at Ski Time Square and walkways connecting the Gondola Transit Center and the ski base area was unveiled. The project addressed streetscape including a new roundabout and traffic flow as well as utility, concrete sidewalks, concrete unit pavers, snowmelt system, site lighting, irrigation and landscape improvements. (2007)

Improved Way-Finding
To welcome guests, a dynamic system of signs and banners debuted that evokes a signature sense of place and the vibrancy of Steamboat. The signs and landmarks blend elements of the Yampa Valley's strong ranching traditions with the energy and exuberance of the mountain lifestyle. (2007, 2008 & 2009)

New Base-Area Promenade and Plaza
Creation of a Promenade and Plaza: Encircling the base of the ski mountain, a new Promenade will connect people to Steamboat's distinctive resort destinations: skiing, shopping, dining, accommodations and transportation. The Promenade will extend around the toe of the ski hill forming places to gather, relax and enjoy Burgess Creek. (2008 & 2009)

Day-lighting, Burgess Creek
Formerly diverted underground, the day lighting of Burgess Creek will return the sound and energy of Champagne Powder in the liquid form to the mountain base during summer as it courses south along the new Promenade. (2009)



END OF STEAMBOAT PILOT & TODAY ARTICLE...............

If you are looking for a home site, completed home, condo or townhome, in or near Steamboat Springs, Colorado... Contact me: Michelle Diehl, GRI Broker Associate at Prudential Steamboat Realty.

I work as a Buyer's Agent for my clients. I also represent Sellers. If you are buying or selling in the Steamboat Springs or surrounding areas, I can provide what you need. I am paid my success fee only after you experience success!

Contact me today and let’s get started...


web: SteamboatDream.com
e-mail: MichelleDiehl@comcast.net
cell: 970.846.1086
office: 970.879.8100 EXT 434

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

Update on Fed Meeting Today - Mortgage Rates

Update on Fed meeting today from Ed Allbright (Columbine Mortgage):

The Fed just announced they will buy $750 billion more mortgage back securities and $300 billon more treasures bonds. This move will hold the interest rates around the 5% level for a few more months. The Feds are really buying up the higher interest rate mortgage back securities so there is little incentive to drive rates lower.

THIS will not drive rates lower…the lenders are up to their ears in loans applications and are short staffed, so they will be averse to passing on any savings in rates to the end users.



Today’s Conf 30 yr fixed at rate is 4.75%

Today’s loan to $625,000 is at 4.875%


Rates subject to change without notice...
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If you are looking for a home site, completed home, condo or townhome, in or near Steamboat Springs, Colorado... Contact me: Michelle Diehl, GRI Broker Associate at Prudential Steamboat Realty.

I work as a Buyer's Agent for my clients. I also represent Sellers. If you are buying or selling in the Steamboat Springs or surrounding areas, I can provide what you need. I am paid my success fee only after you experience success!

Contact me today and let’s get started...


web: SteamboatDream.com
e-mail: MichelleDiehl@comcast.net
cell: 970.846.1086
office: 970.879.8100 EXT 434

Monday, March 16, 2009

Stagecoach Water Tap Fees - Voice Your Opinion - Tuesday March 17th or Thursday March 19th

Stagecoach Water Tap Fee Battle This week; REALTOR® and Community Involvement Needed:

On Tuesday afternoon at 2 P.M., the Morrison Creek Water Board will go before the Routt County Commissioners to explain their reasoning for raising water tap fees 375% to build a new water treatment plant In the Stagecoach Development. These fees will increase from $8,000 to $30,000 for lot owners who have not developed their properties. The fees are not equally applied to lot owners in Stagecoach. Owners who have prepaid their fees will not be required to contribute to plant improvements. Those landowners who have not prepaid their tap fees will be put at a competitive disadvantage when they sell their property. The Steamboat Springs Board of REALTORS® is opposed to the tap fee increases for the following reasons:



· The drastic fee increases have not been publicly vetted in a way that is satisfactory to those that are affected by the fee increase.

· The fee is not applied equally. Landowners are put on an unlevel playing field because lot owners who have prepaid the fee will be able to sell their lot or build at a more competitive price than those who have not prepaid the fee.

· Current users in the Morrison Creek Water District will not be required to contribute to the cost of the new water treatment facility, despite the fact that these users will benefit from the new plant.

· The population growth estimates used are faulty.

SSBR encourages REALTORS® to attend Tuesday’s Routt County Commissioner meeting at 2 P.M. at the Courthouse to voice your opposition to the fee increases. In addition, the Water Board will meet on Thursday for its regular meeting at 3:30 P.M. at 401 Lincoln Ave. Public Comment will be taken at this meeting as well.



..........................................

If you are looking for a home site, completed home, condo or townhome, in or near Steamboat Springs, Colorado... Contact me: Michelle Diehl, GRI Broker Associate at Prudential Steamboat Realty.

I work as a Buyer's Agent for my clients. I also represent Sellers. If you are buying or selling in the Steamboat Springs or surrounding areas, I can provide what you need. I am paid my success fee only after you experience success!

Contact me today and let’s get started...


web: SteamboatDream.com
e-mail: MichelleDiehl@comcast.net
cell: 970.846.1086
office: 970.879.8100 EXT 434

Monday, March 9, 2009

Steamboat Springs Homes Values - What Happens When Steamboat 700 Homes Hit the Market?

Question to Danny Mulcahy of Steamboat 700: "What is going to happen to home values when Steamboat 700 is annexed? Isn't the market going to be flooded and values decline?"

Danny's answer: We obviously can't predict the future, but it is certainly not in Steamboat 700's interest to have area home values decline. Our intention is to make a variety of housing types available on an ongoing basis-with enough types and a range of prices to encourage quality and competition that keeps pricing low to attract regional residents. This will be a balancing act, as we need all the builders to be successful in order to have a vibrant master-planned community.

Our research indicates that there is more than adequate housing demand being generated today in the Steamboat Springs community and the region-but to release a supply of land and new homes that exceeds the local demand would not make any economic sense.

It is safe to say that some level of stabilization in Steamboat Springs' rate of housing appreciation will occur when new supply enters the market. But the benefits of creating new housing supply adjacent to Steamboat Springs--which prevents sprawl, shortens commuting times and preserves the region's environment--will enhance the quality of life throughout Steamboat Springs and Routt County.
...............................................................

If you are looking for a home site, completed home, condo or townhome, in or near Steamboat Springs, Colorado... Contact me: Michelle Diehl, GRI Broker Associate at Prudential Steamboat Realty.

I work as a Buyer's Agent for my clients. I also represent Sellers. If you are buying or selling in the Steamboat Springs or surrounding areas, I can provide what you need. I am paid my success fee only after you experience success!

Contact me today and let’s get started...


web: SteamboatDream.com
e-mail: MichelleDiehl@comcast.net
cell: 970.846.1086
office: 970.879.8100 EXT 434

Steamboat City Council Votes To Suspend Linkage Requirements for Affordable Housing

In its second narrow vote, last week the Steamboat
City Council voted to suspend linkage requirements
for developers to mitigate affordable housing. Linkage
requires developers to mitigate a percentage of
workforce housing requirements by creating workforce
housing or paying a fee in-lieu for the building
of the housing. The vote came after months and
years of discussion has to whether the Steamboat
inclusionary zoning and commercial linkage requirements
were too stringent, and did not achieve additional
affordable housing as had hoped.
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If you are looking for a home site, completed home, condo or townhome, in or near Steamboat Springs, Colorado... Contact me: Michelle Diehl, GRI CNE Broker Associate at Prudential Steamboat Realty.

I work as a Buyer's Agent for my clients. I also represent Sellers. If you are buying or selling in the Steamboat Springs or surrounding areas, I can provide what you need. I am paid my success fee only after you experience success!

Contact me today and let’s get started...


web: SteamboatDream.com
e-mail: MichelleDiehl@comcast.net
cell: 970.846.1086
office: 970.879.8100 EXT 434

Yampa Valley Housing Authority Supports Steamboat 700

The Yampa Valley Housing Authority (YVHA) is in full support of Danny Mulcahy and the Steamboat 700 project. The project is the first of its kind that will fully support and dedicate properties to affordable housing in various ways to keep speculation buying down and homes in the hands of our workforce. The West of Steamboat Springs Area Plan (WSSAP) supports affordable housing growth on the West side of Steamboat. With the Steamboat Springs City Council backing down on the affordable housing requirements due partly to a slow Real Estate Market the YVHA is in full support mode for Steamboat 700. YVHA would like to be involved with the affordable housing meetings to play a part in guiding the affordable housing direction at Steamboat 700. The YVHA is excited about the long term benefits a proposed Real Estate Transfer Fee that could provide much needed funding for their cause.

Blog by Michelle
.................................................................................

If you are looking for a home site, completed home, condo or townhome, in or near Steamboat Springs, Colorado... Contact me: Michelle Diehl, GRI Broker Associate at Prudential Steamboat Realty.

I work as a Buyer's Agent for my clients. I also represent Sellers. If you are buying or selling in the Steamboat Springs or surrounding areas, I can provide what you need. I am paid my success fee only after you experience success!

Contact me today and let’s get started...


web: SteamboatDream.com
e-mail: MichelleDiehl@comcast.net
cell: 970.846.1086
office: 970.879.8100 EXT 434

Friday, March 6, 2009

Steamboat Springs Historic Preservation

7 properties join historic register
Routt County nonprofit uses state grant funds to assist owners
By Brandon Gee (Contact)
Thursday, March 5, 2009

Steamboat Springs — Seven properties were added in 2007 and 2008 to the Routt County Register of Historic Places, which now includes a variety of 89 historic county properties.

Local nonprofit organization Historic Routt County guided five of the properties through the designation process, underwriting the costs to compile information and write applications with money it received through a grant from the Colorado State Historical Fund. The five properties are the Crossan’s M&A Market and Yampa-Egeria Museum in Yampa, the Mission Building-Pool Hall and Elkhead School­house in Hayden, and the Humble Ranch in Steamboat Springs. The owners of two other properties — the HiWay Bar and Grill in Hayden and the Remington House in Steamboat — submitted applications themselves but also received technical assistance from Historic Routt County.

“We try to encourage nominations with willing property owners all the time,” Executive Director Towny Anderson said. “We’d always like to be doing more. It’s just a matter of resources.”

Anderson said Historic Routt County is a good place to start for anybody interested in having a property listed on the county register.

“Anybody who wants to be on that register, we’ll try to help,” Anderson said. “That’s one of our signature programs.”

The county register is honorary — not regulatory — but owners can take advantage of incentives such as tax credits and historic structure assessment grants. Dona Steele, owner of the Remington House at 216 Spruce Street, said she moved to Steamboat from a community in South Florida that took no care to preserve its historical character.

“I just like old houses, and I think it’s great when people want to preserve … the ambience of what Steamboat Springs used to be like,” Steele said.

Steele said the designation process was very interesting and educational. Through her research, Steele learned that Lester J. Remington, who brought commercial strawberry farming to Routt County, built the house in 1902. Steele came across an old newspaper story about a strawberry Remington grew that was 7.5 inches around.

The HiWay Bar building originally was the homestead of William Walker and was built in 1888. J.L. Norvell turned it into a multi-purpose grocery store a few years later. The building has served as a liquor store, a gambling hall, a general store, a bank and a jail.

The Crossan’s M&A Market, built circa 1902, now is owned by the town of Yampa but was formerly known as the Buck & Son General Merchandise Store. The Old Town Yampa fixture includes several features of the false-front vernacular storefront architecture style.

The Yampa-Egeria Museum in Old Town Yampa was built in the same style in 1903 as the Yampa Bank. The building now is run as a museum and also is owned by the town of Yampa.

The Mission Building-Pool Hall in Hayden also was built by William Walker, in the false-front vernacular storefront style. Originally built as a church in 1903, the building now serves as the Hayden Marketplace. The Elkhead Schoolhouse was built in 1915 with local stone. After years of abandonment and vandalism, Dwight and Barbara Green bought the building in 1961.

William J. Milner obtained the land that now is the Humble Ranch through a land patent in 1897. Ed and Cheri Trousil purchased the land in 1999, created the Humble Ranch Education & Therapy Center and have preserved 13 buildings on the property.


END OF STEAMBOAT PILOT & TODAY ARTICLE...............

If you are looking for a home site, completed home, condo or townhome, in or near Steamboat Springs, Colorado... Contact me: Michelle Diehl, GRI Broker Associate at Prudential Steamboat Realty.

I work as a Buyer's Agent for my clients. I also represent Sellers. If you are buying or selling in the Steamboat Springs or surrounding areas, I can provide what you need. I am paid my success fee only after you experience success!

Contact me today and let’s get started...


web: SteamboatDream.com
e-mail: MichelleDiehl@comcast.net
cell: 970.846.1086
office: 970.879.8100 EXT 434

Base Area in Steamboat Springs May Break Ground in 2009

Proposed project at base of ski area could break ground this year
Loui Antonucci: City Council not planning to fund project
By Tom Ross (Contact)
Monday, March 2, 2009


Steamboat Springs — The committee shaping the course of new public improvements at the base of Steamboat Ski Area isn’t ready to give up on beginning construction on a pedestrian promenade this year.

The Urban Redevelopment Area Advisory Committee voted unanimously Friday to create a new committee to explore creative financing options that could allow the Steamboat Springs Re­­development Authority to avoid mothballing the project. The plan received the qualified blessings of Steamboat Springs City Council President Loui Antonucci.

Redevelopment Coordinator Joe Kracum told the group on Friday that the latest cost estimate for the entire project, including the daylighting of Burgess Creek, is $15 million. But some of the underground utility work, plus completion of construction documents and landscaping of a new traffic roundabout, could be accomplished for $4 million.

The group has about $31,000 remaining to spend this year and will use that money to finalize the design package for the pedestrian walkway and related public areas, including the stream banks.

The city’s redevelopment authority is funded by new property tax growth at the resort base. However, virtually all of the current revenue stream already is dedicated to recent projects. Interim city Finance Director Bob Litzau has cautioned against going to the bond market for financing the promenade construction at this time. Litzau is concerned about the authority’s ability to repay debt given uncertainty about adjustable interest rates, and how the existing assessed valuation in the district might fare in the near future.

The committee got a boost last week with the news that the Torian Plum Homeowners Association overwhelmingly approved the final design of the promenade and agreed in principle to contribute about $35,000 annually to the pedestrian pathway’s maintenance. Neighbors including the Sher­aton Steamboat Resort and Steamboat Ski and Resort Corp. also will contribute maintenance funds.

Despite that encouraging news, the committee seemed resigned to halting construction this year until committee member David Nagel, a Steamboat Springs-based attorney, asked for permission to assemble a committee of experts to look for funding options.

“We’re hanging in limbo here. We need to at least generate some minds on this to look at options,” Nagel said. “I would propose forming a subcommittee for financing options and get moving on this. There’s a lot of good things happening right now (in the bond markets).”

Ski Corp. President Chris Diamond quickly embraced Nagel’s plan.

“This is the kind of project that should be being funded right now. It’s new investment to create wealth. It’s shovel-ready,” he said.

Antonucci approved of Nagel’s plan but cautioned against misinterpreting his support as meaning City Council would fund it.

“I’d hate to have us come out of the recession in a couple years with no momentum,” Antonucci told the group. “I’d like to see a portion of this done. But I don’t think there’s a chance in hell we’ll go into our reserves to fund any part of this.”

Nagel was given approval for his plan to assemble a committee of people, some from outside Steamboat, with expertise in finance and municipal bonds, as well as people from city government and the resort community. He will report back to the URAAC before formalizing his subcommittee.

— To reach Tom Ross, call 871-4205

or e-mail tross@steamboatpilot.com


END OF STEAMBOAT PILOT & TODAY ARTICLE...............

If you are looking for a home site, completed home, condo or townhome, in or near Steamboat Springs, Colorado... Contact me: Michelle Diehl, GRI Broker Associate at Prudential Steamboat Realty.

I work as a Buyer's Agent for my clients. I also represent Sellers. If you are buying or selling in the Steamboat Springs or surrounding areas, I can provide what you need. I am paid my success fee only after you experience success!

Contact me today and let’s get started...


web: SteamboatDream.com
e-mail: MichelleDiehl@comcast.net
cell: 970.846.1086
office: 970.879.8100 EXT 434

Bombay Grill Opening in Steamboat Springs - Quiznos Too...

Wildhorse Marketplace will soon have a new restaurant. The Bombay Grill will feature Indian food and a large bar area. Summer will bring outdoor dining and a great place for friends to gather. The owner has opened 40 other restaurants in other resort areas and the Front Range. March 20th is the scheduled opening. Lets all support the Wildhorse Marketplace for good food and drink.

Quiznos located in the Wildhorse Marketplace is under new ownership. The food quality and cleanliness are not to be missed. If you have not visited Quiznos in a while give it a try. You will be glad you did.



Blog by Michelle...


web: SteamboatDream.com
e-mail: MichelleDiehl@comcast.net
cell: 970.846.1086
office: 970.879.8100 EXT 434

Steamboat Springs - Rollingstone Development

Project in affordable housing flux
Rollingstone development proposal totals 100,000 square feet
By Brandon Gee (Contact)
Wednesday, February 25, 2009 E-mail story Comments (19) Print story
Updated 11:05 a.m., February 25, 2009


Kim and Peter Kreissig are proposing 61 condos and seven commercial spaces on 2.79 acres directly behind the Safeway grocery store on Pine Grove Road. The project, known as Rollingstone, would total more than 100,000 square feet. The site also borders Fish Creek and Rollingstone Drive.

Like any development proposal making its way through the city Planning Department these days, the project finds itself in an awkward position in relation to the city’s community housing ordinance, which the Steamboat Springs City Council is in the process of overhauling.

Under the current scheme, the proposed project generates a requirement of 11.62 affordable housing units. The ordinance requires that nine of those units be built within the project and allows a payment in lieu for the rest. The developers are proposing payment in lieu for the entirety of their affordable housing requirements. The city’s planning staff is recommending that the request either be denied because it does not satisfy current requirements, or tabled pending amendments to the community housing ordinance.

“I think it is the only approach that the (Community Development Code) allows us to take,” city planner Jonathan Spence said. “It does make it more challenging.”

City Council is considering a number of changes to its affordable housing policies, including making payment in lieu a right for inclusionary zoning. Also, if council approves a suspension of linkage next week, Rollingstone’s affordable housing requirements will drop by 2.18 units.

Regardless of the requirements, city employees think the project represents an ideal site for affordable housing because of its proximity to the grocery store, other retail and a Steamboat Springs Transit bus stop.

“We think it’s an appropriate location,” Spence said. “The purpose of inclusionary zoning was just that: to include affordable housing in projects.”

Historic structures
Six structures sit on the proposed development site, including a house and detached gar­age built in 1941.

“They are good examples of Rustic style architecture and therefore most likely eligible to the Routt County Register of Historic Properties,” a city staff report states.

The Historic Preservation Advisory Commission recommended denial of the project in a 4-0 vote, thinking the proposed mass and scale of new buildings would not relate well to the existing structures.

Planning staff, however, is recommending approval of the project as a whole but does not support a requested water body setback variance. City codes require the development to stay 50 feet from Fish Creek. Developers requested a reduction in the setback to 30 feet to allow an expansion of the detached garage.

“It’s large mass and scale do not conform with our design guidelines,” Historic Preservation Planner Alexis Casale said about the proposed addition.

Once again, city employees’ recommendation conflicts with that of HPAC, which recommended approval of the setback variance in a 3-1 vote.

The Kreissigs also are re­­questing a seven-year grace period instead of the standard three years before they must pull a building permit. Spence said the request is being made because of the economy; the developers of the proposed Thunderhead project at the base of Steamboat Ski Area made a similar request to extend their vesting period from three years to five.

“With the Thunderhead one, the City Council seemed somewhat unreceptive to that idea,” Spence said about the project that was tabled to April at a meeting last week.

Spence said planning staff is recommending that if an extension is allowed for Rollingstone that it only be for five years rather than seven.

Kim Kreissig did not return a message left on her cell phone Monday. In September 2007, after the Kreissigs acquired the parcel for $5.75 million, she said the couple envisioned creating an arts neighborhood consisting of high-end condominiums combined with low-intensity commercial.

“We want to maintain the feel of the property,” Kim Kreissig said at the time. “It’s a stirring piece of land back there in the forest. There are 100-year-old evergreen trees. It’s a place where you can have a Zen moment. Peter and I will try to be as sensitive as we can.”

— To reach Brandon Gee, call 871-4210

or e-mail bgee@steamboatpilot.com


END OF STEAMBOAT PILOT & TODAY ARTICLE...............

If you are looking for a home site, completed home, condo or townhome, in or near Steamboat Springs, Colorado... Contact me: Michelle Diehl, GRI Broker Associate at Prudential Steamboat Realty.

I work as a Buyer's Agent for my clients. I also represent Sellers. If you are buying or selling in the Steamboat Springs or surrounding areas, I can provide what you need. I am paid my success fee only after you experience success!

Contact me today and let’s get started...


web: SteamboatDream.com
e-mail: MichelleDiehl@comcast.net
cell: 970.846.1086
office: 970.879.8100 EXT 434

Luxury Home Auctions In Steamboat Springs

Luxury homes auctioned
Owner of 2 Steamboat houses turns down formal bids, renegotiates for sale
By Tom Ross (Contact)
Sunday, February 22, 2009

The Tuesday auction for two luxury south Steamboat homes led to the sale of one of them. Owner Will Bashan just isn’t certain which one. And technically, neither home sold at auction.

Bashan owns both homes. He confirmed what his auctioneer, the Redfield Group, is reporting on its Web page: that the smaller of the two, his 6,500-square-foot home in Dakota Ridge, is under a sale agreement to purchasers who have agreed to pay $2.31 million for the home overlooking Steamboat Ski Area.

The prospective buyers are Herb and Lori Hall, of Thomas County, Neb. They placed the high bid of $2.1 million during the auction, but Bashan rejected that offer after the auction closed and then negotiated through the auctioneers to arrive at the higher price.

Yet, Bashan said it’s possible the Halls will opt to purchase the larger and more expensive home offered at auction last week.

According to Redfield, Bashan rejected the high bid of $3.7 million for the never-occupied 8,800-square-foot home at 35755 Blazemark Trail. It’s just off Routt County Road 14 and a little south of Dakota Ridge.

Auctioneer Mike Fisher said the buyer, who bid via telephone, was from Connecticut. In negotiations, Redfield reported on its Web page that Bashan had rejected an offer of $4.125 million for the house, which previously had been listed at $6.8 million and appraised at $6.2 million.

“I spoke to the buyer by phone today to answer questions,” Bashan said. “We still don’t know what’s going on for sure, except that I’ve sold a house. They still have a strong interest in the Blazemark house.”

Bashan said the Halls asked for a couple of days to consider their choice, and he was content with that.

“My goal was to not own two large houses, so I’m pretty happy about that,” Bashan said. “Would I have liked to have a better economy and a more robust real estate market? Yeah.”

Measuring the market
The larger Blazemark home went on the auction block first, in the middle of a snowy afternoon that didn’t allow bidders to appreciate views of the Steamboat Ski Area from the home. It occupies 21 acres, including 350 feet of Yampa River frontage.

Realtors Marc and Audrey Small, of Prudential Steamboat Realty, who are partners in one spec house currently for sale and have another in the Steamboat market of their own, were registered bidders for last week’s auction, as well as curious onlookers.

“At $6.8 million, no one’s going to buy it,” Marc Small said. “At $3.8? Maybe. It’s a lot of house.”

Fisher opened the proceeding by touting $1.2 million invested in the building site, the $300,000 he said Bashan spent on burl wood sandstone from Arkansas, $100,000 of appliances and $250,000 invested in landscaping, plus a custom steel and copper range hood in the kitchen that was made by Steamboat craftsman Tony Ditrani.

Then, the auctioneer really launched into his pitch.

“How many times have you heard someone say, ‘Ten years ago, I could have bought that house for (a lot less)?” Fisher asked. “Well, today is seven and 10 years ago. Today is when people buy and make money.”

Fisher kicked the auction off with the advertised opening bid of $1 million and, within 60 seconds, telephone bidders had increased the bid to $2 million and $3 million. That’s about as long as the true excitement lasted for the crowd of about 25 people.

When Fisher called out for $3.5 million, he was met with impassive stares from the gathering.

Bashan watched from a second-floor balcony as Fisher began working the price upward in increments of $100,000, until he was stuck at $3.5 million for an extended time.

“That guy is working real hard,” Bashan said. But he confirmed he wasn’t close to accepting the price.

“It won’t sell at this price level,” he said.

Bashan remained unfazed when the bid increased to $3.7 million and later rejected the final offer of $4.125 million from the Connecticut bidder.

Bashan predicted that with luck, he might sell the smaller house and end up moving his family into the larger house.

“They’ve got a ways to go,” he said. “I’m not feeling it, as my kids would say.”

Bidding on the Dakota Ridge home was between two bidders. The Halls, who were present, were the most determined.

They said they own a ranch in the Sandhills of Nebraska between North Platte and Valentine but have long ties to Colorado. Herb Hall said he was the drywall contractor on the Sheraton Steamboat Resort in the 1970s. Their family owns a home in Beaver Creek but has concluded they would fit in better in Steamboat, Lori Hall said.

Perspective
Tom Dover, the general contractor who built the Blazemark home, said he would regard it as potentially harmful to the Steamboat market if the house did not sell at auction.

Bashan later rejected the idea that a selling price in the mid $4 millions for a home he priced at $6.8 million led to any clear conclusions about the current state of the market.

“I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about that,” Bashan said. “Some people would say, ‘That’s the market now.’ I don’t agree with that. If you had 50 auctions in a month, that might make the market. But this is just what happened at this point in time.”

With a probable end to the sale process in sight, Bashan concluded that the auction process allowed him to create a sense of urgency and essentially choose his own sale date.

“If I hadn’t sold either home, I’d still feel good about it, because at least I’d have done something proactive in a difficult market,” he said.

— To reach Tom Ross, call 871-4205

or e-mail tross@steamboatpilot.com


END OF STEAMBOAT PILOT & TODAY ARTICLE...............

If you are looking for a home site, completed home, condo or townhome, in or near Steamboat Springs, Colorado... Contact me: Michelle Diehl, GRI Broker Associate at Prudential Steamboat Realty.

I work as a Buyer's Agent for my clients. I also represent Sellers. If you are buying or selling in the Steamboat Springs or surrounding areas, I can provide what you need. I am paid my success fee only after you experience success!

Contact me today and let’s get started...


web: SteamboatDream.com
e-mail: MichelleDiehl@comcast.net
cell: 970.846.1086
office: 970.879.8100 EXT 434