Archive for April 2009

Now is the time!  According to the Steamboat Pilot & Today construction companies are feeling the economic burn.  A.J. Gale of A.J. Gale Builders, says that building projects in the Steamboat area slammed to a halt in November. Now, as the summer construction season approaches, some workers are scrambling for jobs, and some companies are scrambling for projects. Both are scarce, Gale said.”Right now, we don’t turn down jobs,” he said. “If you wanted me to come over and build you a receptacle for your trash, I’d be there tomorrow.”

Northwest Colorado has an abundance of amazing land opportunities.  Check out Boulder Ridge, the Barn Village at Steamboat, or Alpine Mountain Ranch to name a few.  These emerging Steamboat developments are offering amazing deals with great incentives.   If you are considering building a luxury new home in Steamboat Springs – this may be your summer!

“I don’t know that there will ever be a better time to build,” according to Jeremy MacGray, president of JSM Builders. “Labor costs are significantly lower than previous years because of much less demand and far fewer housing starts. Also, interest rates are lower. We predict that 2009 will be a great time to build.”

Land prices have not increased and in some cases sellers are offering enticements. Steamboat’s relatively broad river valley represents more useable land than many mountain communities so the prices often compare favorably.

Reduced oil and commodity prices mean much lower fuel and building material costs. With cheaper gas and diesel, shipping costs are down. The price of steel and copper are by far less expensive. With decreases in the construction materials index, regional and national suppliers are offering builders even more incentives.

The United States Commerce Department said November 2008 national housing starts were the lowest since it began keeping records in 1959. Steamboat’s market is more stable then many locations but there is a recognizable slowing in building permits here, as well.

Rick Hodges of Summit House Properties says “We are working on improving our custom home practice to include greater customer service and extra perks to appeal to today’s more demanding consumer. One thing about Steamboat; we have great sub-contractors and they are ready to work.”

If you would like more information on the vast number of land opportunities in Steamboat contact the Vanatta Group today at 970-879-8100 or via email.

Filed under: Steamboat News by MDudley
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Forbes magazine recently wrote “Sadly, someday this recession is going to end”. The president’s Council of Economic Advisors and the Federal Reserve now believe that recovery will begin sometime in 2009. With that in mind, Forbes published its’ list of ten things to buy prior to the impending economic improvement. Guess what item was at the top of the list? If you guessed housing…you got it! If you don’t have it, now is time to “get it”. As Forbes further states, “for those feeling bold enough to bargain shop, opportunities abound!” There are 3 key factors in providing this home buying apocalypse:

1. According to the S&P/Case Shiller US National Home Price Index, fourth quarter 2008 prices were down 25% from the same period of 2006.
2. Congress passed an $8000.00 tax credit for first-time home buyers in February included in the stimulus bill.
3. For the first time since the 1940’s, average interest rates are dipping below 5% for a 30-year, fixed rate mortgage per bankrate.com. “This may be the best time in a generation to buy a home.”

And as if that is not enough incentive, another Forbes recent article rates several cities in Colorado , including Denver , Ft. Collins and Boulder as “best places for business and careers” as well as tops among America ‘s most livable cities.Colorado has “lifestyle” going for it and Steamboat Springs continues to prove itself as one of the best mountain communities of Colorado in which to live. From the diversity of activities and industry as well as a world class winter playground and ski training facilities for athletes, Steamboat offers something for every enthusiast…the operative word being enthusiast. Come, let us show you why we love Steamboat and want to share it with you…

Anne Mayberry, Broker Associate, The Vanatta Group steamboatestates.com/annemayberry                                                                          970-846-1425

Filed under: Steamboat News by MDudley
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