Memorial Day Amidst COVID19

Memorial Day may be a bit different this year as COVID19 has hampered our ability for large gatherings in parks, our lakes, and with families/friends.  Although it is a strange year, we can still honor our Military is the following ways:

American Flag

Our flag has taken on many changes since 1976.  But all in all, it still represented the American Dream of freedom for all.  The thirteen stripes represent the thirteen British Colonies that declared independence from the Kingdom of Great Britain and became the first states in the U.S. 

The 50 stars on the flag represent the 50 states of the United States of America.

Without that military personnel that has fought for our freedom and proudly gave their lives for us, we could not be as bonded as a nation under God, with liberty, and justice for all.

Fly our flag proudly for our vet's!!  

Visit Cemetary/Memorials Virtually

Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971.  Many Americans observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries or memorials.  People place flags, flowers, potted plants to honor their loved ones.  Many Veterans Clubs place individual flags on graves of the vet's.  

Each national cemetery will still conduct a wreath-laying ceremony along with a moment of silence and the playing of Taps, which will be live-streamed on the National Cemetery Administration's Facebook page.

Camp/BBQ/Vacation

Memorial Day is the official start of the summer season.  This year may have changed many families' plans for travel or vacation during the pandemic, but the spirit of summer is still alive and well in America.  People are getting so creative during this COVID19 virus.  In Loveland, CO there is a gathering (in your car of course) with 5 comedians on 11th Street downtown.  Families are going to the Drive-In Movie.  Cocktail hour on Zoom with friends.  Even churches are having virtual events. 

Whatever it takes to have a sense of community. We will prevail and our veterans have much to do with our pride in America  

Thank you veterans and their families for allowing us the privilege of being the Greatest Country in the World.  

Family Is Forever and So Is The Dirt

Have you ever thought about family?  Once you have a family, it's always your family.  You might get along and you might not, but they are still your family.  Well, so is dirt.  Once you buy a home that has "dirt", then it is your "dirt".  It's always your "dirt" unless you sell it, don't pay for it, or eminent domain takes it.

"Dirt" becomes more valuable the more people that populate a location.  The less "dirt" there is, the more people are willing to pay.   It's your pot of gold!

Most of us celebrate with our family and friends in our homes.  Saint Patrick's day is just about upon us.  It is a global celebration of Irish culture on or around March 17th.  It particularly remembers St Patrick, one of Ireland's patron saints, who ministered Christianity in Ireland during the fifth century.   St Patricks Day is celebrated with family and friends and what better way to celebrate than on your own "dirt". It's a fantastic time to laugh, love, cry, and pass along the traditions that our families have given to us in generations before us.  Here are some ideas that you can do on your "dirt" to enjoy with your family and friends.

1. Make traditional St Patricks day food such as Corned Beef and Cabbage, Soda Bread, or Shepard Pie.
2. Drink green beer 
3. Buy green hats
4. Decorate with leprechauns and shamrocks

Protect your home ("dirt), update your home, enjoy your home with friends and family, and it will bring you a pot of gold.  Or, if you are interested in buying a home (dirt), give me a call at Turn Key Realty

10 Reasons To Move To Loveland CO

I get the same response about every time I'm asked where I'm from.  Loveland, Colorado. "Oh, I'd love to live in Colorado".  So why is there such a draw to this area?  Why should you move to Loveland CO?

1. The Rocky Mountains

With views as beautiful as the Rocky Mountains, who wouldn't want to live here.  Every season is as gorgeous as the last one.  From snow-capped mountains to springtime wildflowers, the Colorado Rockies are a breathtaking sight.  The majestic pink skies and cotton candy clouds are a magnificent image. Amazing as it seems, there is a view for anyone who opens their eyes.

2. The Sweetheart City

Since we are known for Love, why not send your sweetheart a Valentine from our city?  Every February you can have your Valentine sent to the Chamber of Commerce, stamped with the official Valentine stamp for the year, and remailed to your sweetheart.  What better way to share your love than with a special Valentine!

3. Big Thompson River & Area Lakes

The Big Thompson River provides excellent fishing opportunities.  If you are a novice fisherman or a beginner, you can catch trout, walleye, bass, or other fish from this river.  Loveland also is the backdrop for a lot of lakes.  In fact, Lake Loveland, Boyd Lake, and Carter Lake are just a few lakes that have public access.  If fishing isn't your forte, paddleboarding, boating, jet skiing, and swimming are other options.  Carter Lake is also home to sailboating enthusiasts. There are a lot more lakes but many are private lakes.  

4. The Public Arts Program

Loveland, CO has 475 pieces of art in its public arts collection.  The arts collection consists primarily of sculptures; however, the collection also includes murals and other flatwork.  Over 150 pieces of the city's sculptures can be found in Loveland's Benson Sculpture Garden.  This "public treasure" draws tens of thousands of visits each year.

5. Hiking/Biking

Loveland is host to 26 miles of bike and hiking trails.   The Recreation Trail System consists of paved trail nearly encircling Loveland and connecting to other regional trails, including Long View Trail and Colorado Front Range Trail.  Take a ride and enjoy the view!!

6. Microbrews

Loveland on tap consists of various brews from Sours to IPA's to Porters and Stouts.  Strawberry beer, chocolate beer, lemon etc.  Different tastes for different folks with 388 breweries in the state of Colorado and 50 new pending licenses as of January 2019.  Entertainment, greenhouses, warehouses, and eclectic decor enhance the experience of the local brews.   A new delicious brew to try each day of the week.  

Living in Loveland is home to all of the above but it's also home to (7.) wonderful schools, (8.)robust higher education opportunities, (9.)a variety of restaurants, and (10.)community events on a regular basis.  

If you are interested in moving to Loveland or Northern Colorado, contact me, Margaret Herdt, Turn Key Realty for all of your real estate needs.

The Seniors Who Don't Want To Die

I recently went on a road trip with my husband.  It occurred to me, after visiting Mesa Verde National Park, that seniors don't want to die.  There were seniors with their grandchildren, seniors traveling with friends, seniors laughing, and some were traveling with other couples. There were a lot of them at each spot we went to.  They don't want to work themselves to death anymore but enjoy their surroundings with others or partners.  They were friendly, adventurous, and had zest in their step.  They might not be up all night but they were definitely active.

Senior life has it's advantages since everything is not centered around making money and working.  It's a time to strategize what's next.  You worked hard all your life.  Now what? Downsize from your large home?  Get into the best shape of your life? Volunteer? Travel? Relax? Do it all?

https://www.du.edu/specpro/otherprograms/senioraudit/

As more baby boomers retire, the real estate industry, as well as other industries, have been gearing toward this group of people's desire to enjoy life.  There are senior tours, clubs, cruises, card and game groups, volunteering seniors, senior activities, foodies, and those that want to
learn something new, etc.  What a passion this segment of life has for life.  "The seniors that don't want to die".

If you look into the Loveland CO senior housing area, there is 55+ living at Lakeshore at Centerra,

Affinity at Loveland, West Lake Village, Victoria Mannor, and patio homes in and around Loveland like Radiant Dr and in Marianna Butte.  These homes offer a community where you don't take care of maintenance or minimal amounts, activities are offered, social gatherings, gyms, etc.  With this type of housing, seniors are able to leave their homes without worry for an extended time.  Neighbors watch out for each other, the lawn care people mow the law, the watering is on a timer, the kids are gone and you are left to enjoy yourself until YOU decide to go home.  If you want more information on downsizing or patio homes, call me.

It's amazing to me the power this age group has influenced our society every ten years of their life. The baby boomers have changed the way we buy, the way we socialize, the way we eat, the way we spend our days.  And now, they don't want to lay down and die but be active, social, and a major contributor to their families, friends, and communities.

If you need something done - ask a senior.  They have the time and are willing to help.  They don't want to lay around and let life pass them by.

How The Loveland Airport Impacts Our Community

Northern Colorado Regional Airport

The Loveland/Fort CollinsAirport is a small airport, located at 4824 Earhart Road, Loveland CO 80538. It's open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.   The Airport impacts our community in a vast array of capacities.  

It is one of the most diverse airports in our state, supporting a mix of almost every facet of air transportation for the region.  There are four main categories of aviation at our Airport. General Aviation, Business, Commercial, and Public Service.

The Loveland/Fort Collins Airport is also a diversion Airport for Frontier, Southwest, and United Airlines when landing at Denver International Airport (DIA) is not possible. 

Many businesses are based on the activities supported by our Airport, which generate specialized employment opportunities that earn greater than average wages.  This level of activity and those jobs contribute significant impacts to the total economic output for our region. 

Fixed Base Operators 

These operators provide Competitive Fuel Prices, Free Wi-Fi, WSI Flight Planning, Transient Hangars, Private Crew Lounge, Crew Cars, Crew Showers, De-icing Type I & IV services and Hot Fuel for Helicopters.

Ground Transportation

Ground transportation is provided by Groome Transporation.  They provide shuttle service to DIA (Denver International Airport) and COS (Colorado Springs Airport)

Aircraft Avionics and Maintenance

 Your repair needs are met onsite when and if you need them.  Mechanics, software updates, warranty work, or a complete engine overhaul can be done with the team of three companies onsite at the Loveland Airport.

Rental Services

Rentals are available through the flying schools. Government agencies rent various aircraft for wildfires, oil and gas implosions, and construction jobs of various types.

Charter and Commercial Helicopter Service

This arena mainly focuses on government contracts such as wildfires and oil and gas implosions. fight natural disasters, emergency air service jobs, and military operations.   They are also equipped for passenger carrying power poles setting, air conditioner sets, photography flights, mining support, and core and conventional drilling.

The Trans Aero LTD Helicopters are capable of flying missions anywhere in the United States or the World.

We are so blessed to have such a diverse opportunity for our community and one that makes such a financial and service impact.  

Six 5k Walks around Loveland CO This Spring/Summer

There are lots of different walking events in and around Loveland CO this spring and summer. Here are six runs that are coming soon.

If you are a beginning runner, going from zero to 5k, you will need about two months to prepare.  Here are some tips to help you get off the couch and onto the trails.

• Start out by walking/running three times a week
• Alternate between walking and running for about 30 minutes, decreasing the time you walk each week.
• Every week, transition one of your 30-minute run/walks into a three-mile walk, until you're doing three miles three times a week
• Gradually increase the mileage of one-run a week until you are doing five miles once a week.

Here are six 5k runs for you to check out and register for.  What better way to get in shape and contribute to a cause.  

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April 20

Loveland Classic

Supports:  Early Childhood Education

Visit website:  Loveland Classic 

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May 11

CerusRuk (obstacle + race)

Supports:  Roberta's Legacy - breast cancer 

Visit website: CerusRuk

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June 2

Crazy Leggs 10k Run

Supports:  Devils Backbone Run

Visit website:  Crazy Legs Run

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June 15

Sierra's Race

Supports:  Meningitis

Visit website:  Sierra's Race

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July 4

Loveland Liberty 5k

Supports:  Life for the Innocent

Visit Website:  Loveland Liberty

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August 9

Valley 5000

Supports:  House of Neighborly Service

Visit Website:  Valley 5000

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5 Fragrant Plants for Your Home

Do you want your guests to smell wonderful fragrant plants as they walk up the steps to your home? Since spring has arrived, we turn our attention to the great outdoors and gardening.  Fragrant plants are a must for your senses.  Try planting these five fragrant plants to give wonderful aroma and appeal to your home.

1.  Honeysuckle

This vining plant comes in several different colors.  Yellow, white, and pink are the most common colors. The unusual flower has a very strong sweet aroma to it.  These plants grow rapidly along trellises, fences, and anywhere that has adequate support.  These grow well in Northern Colorado but don't like bitter cold.

2.  Hyacinths

Hyacinths are a bulb that blooms in the spring.  Each bulb produces one to three spikes of flowers.  These can be grown in pots near your front door or they are also attractive as a border plant.

They have a heady perfumed scent that is intoxicating.  They usually planted in the fall and come in a variety of colors.  

3.  Roses

Roses come in over 200 species.  They are known as the Sweetheart flower.  They come in multiple colors, some variegated, some shades are even as dark as night.  

Roses can be used in a multitude of ways because they come as bushes, stemmed roses, climbing roses, miniature roses, platter size (showy) roses,  or trailing roses.  They even vary in size and shape.

A few of the most fragrant varieties are: Honey Perfume, Double Delight, and Climbing Rose America.

4.  Lilac Bush

The lilac bush has long been known for it's sweet intense fragrance.  It's easily grown in Northern Colorado and blooms right around graduation time in the spring.  

The lilac bush is a plant that gets quite large and can be grown as hedge.  They can be pruned to stay smaller for under a front window.  The fragrance is unmistakable and quite lovely.  

Flowers are white or different shades of purple and attract butterflies. 

5.  Lily of the Valley

Lily of the Valley is a partial shade loving plant and is easy to grow.  It is a perennial and spreads quite quickly. 

Although this flower is fragrant, it is poisonous. It has a very sweet bouquet to it and is used in perfumes and wedding bouquets. 

The bell shaped flowers and large waxy leaves make it a striking plant in flower beds.  

Most of these flowers, shrubs, or bushes can be found at local Nurseries such as Loveland Garden Center and Nursery, Gulley Greenhouse and Garden Center, or Donath Lake Greenhouse. 

Two Distillery's in Loveland Co You Must Try

Whiskey and Spirit Tasting rooms have become as popular as beer tasting in Northern Colorado and other states, as more and more distilleries pop up.   Here are two distilleries in Loveland CO, for your tasting enjoyment.  The Springs44  and Big Fat Pastor Spirit.  Each has a unique twist to their brand.

Spring44

The Springs44 was established in 2017.  Their claim to fame is their water.  Since 60% of whiskey is water, they think that it plays a huge part in the quality of their product.  The water they use comes from a Rocky Mountain Mineral Spring, located high in the Colorado Rockies.  They don't adulterate their water other than filter out particles. 

Spring44 produces Vodka, Honey Vodka, Gin, and fortified Bitter Liqueur 
You can find these types beverages at:  Spring44 Distilling at 505 W 66th, Loveland CO

Big Fat Pastor Spirit

The Big Fat Pastor Spirit Distillery is all about community spirit.  This is a family business owned by a Pastor and his family.  The Pastor has been brewing spirits and wine for 20 years.  Since community is part of his persona, he brought his love of community and hobby together in one.  They are a small distillery "with a Big Fat Flavor"

They produce two types of Genisis Gin's, Vodka, Bourbon Whiskey, and Malt Whiskey.

You can sample these spirits only on Saturdays from 12-4 pm and the first Friday of each month from 5pm-9pm.

Located at BFP - 6754 N Franklin Ave, Loveland, CO

According to some recent stats from the American Distillers Institute, there now are approximately 1,200 distilleries in the U.S., and hundreds more are on the way.  With distilleries now in almost every state, and over 600 of them producing whiskey, there's never a better time to get out and visit some tasting rooms.

Walkable Neighborhoods

Loveland CO Public Transporation route

More American's prefer living in a walkable, mixed use neighborhoods with easy access to amenities according to a Community Preference Study done by the  NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®. More than half (56%) of respondents said they preferred living in a walkable neighborhood over one that requires more driving between work, home, and recreation.  When considering a home purchase, 77% of respondents say they would look for locations with abundant sidewalks, while 50% say they would rather see improvements to public transit systems than initiatives to build new roads. 

While space is important to many home buyers, some say theyare willing to sacrifice more square footage if it means less driving. Nearly three out of five home buyers say they would choose a smaller home if it's location promised commute time of less than 20 minutes.

Walking can play a significant role in your health, your quality of life, and your enjoyment of the outdoors in Loveland, Colorado. 

Old Home vs New Construction

Why do some buyers prefer older homes while others prefer new construction?  Here are a list of ideas for determining whether to buy an older homes vs newer homes.

Older Homes

1. Established neighborhood
2. Established landscaping
3. Window treatment is already in place
4. More character
5. The cooling system is usually in place
6. School systems are already ranked
7. You could see settling or cracks due to poor quality construction - time shows the flaws
8. Usually no HOA or metro district is in place - less monthly cost
9. You may run into older wiring or plumbing
10. Maintenance is an ongoing thing from day one.
11. Most homes are unique
12. Lot sizes are usually bigger

Newer Homes

1. You are starting out with everything new
2. While everything is new there may be some additional expenses such as: window coverings, A/C units, landscaping (back or possibly both), fencing
3. More than likely there will be an HOA - added cost monthly and when you go to sell (transfer fees)
4. Everyone is new in the neighborhood so your chances of connecting with the neighbors are better than in an established one.  
5. Everything is to code or should be
6. Everyone in the neighborhood has the 3 - 5 floor plans (cookie cutter development)
7. Schools may not be established yet or ranked
8. Prices are usually lower at the start of the development.  Each construction phase will have an increase in price, so get in early.
9. You may purchase early in the subdivision development but then the builder stops building.  It could be years before the rest is finished
10. You will experience noise and construction mess during the building up of the neighborhood - dust and extra contractor vehicles.

While there is a home for everyone, not everyone's tastes and buying power are the same.  There is a house for everyone.  You just need to determine what you like.  Whether it is a new build or an existing home from 1920, HAVE AN INSPECTION done on the property.  I've seen cracked sewer lines in new construction.  Just because it's new doesn't mean it's better.  

Utilizing a REALTOR®   can help you make the right decision for you.

Your Real Estate Resource

Loveland Colorado Is All Above Love

February is the love month and Loveland, CO is all about love. This year there are numerous ways to celebrate in the Sweatheart City of Loveland.

On February 8th and 9th the city will hold it's Sweatheart Festival.  The event will feature:

• Art Shows
• Palace of Sweats
• Beer garden
• Musical performances
• Fire Hoola-Hooper
• And lots of vendors and happenings

More Hearts Added Each Year 

Each year, the Chamber dedicates an average of three to five HeARTs, continuing a program started by the former nonprofit Engaging Loveland as a sculpture project, launched a decade ago on Feb. 16, 2008.  You can view the hearts at local businesses throughout Loveland.  Each is unique and has a different theme.

Valentine Remailing Program

Also the ‘Sweetheart City,’ has been doing the Valentine Re-Mailing Program for 73 years. Each year, the city and its volunteers lovingly hand stamp and re-mail valentines from all 50 states and more than 110 countries. Many of the ‘Sweetheart City’s’ residents are thrilled about the program, so much so that there is a waiting list of volunteers to stamp and re-mail valentines. Loveland’s Re-Mailing Program has grown to be the largest program of its kind.  If you plan on mailing a Valentine from Loveland there is a deadline so visit the website for details.

As you make your way around our city you will find the loving spirit of it's community.  If you want to live in the Sweetheart City please reach out to me.  I would be more than happy to show you around.  

Margaret Herdt, Broker/Owner 

970-672-6069

Loveland, CO Walking Trails

Colorado is known for it's healthy people.  One of the great benefits we have in Loveland, is all of the walking trails and bike trails.  What better way to improve your health and see the sites of Loveland than by walking.  You can walk by a lake, look at beautiful homes, walk by parks, or enjoy the peace and quite of the foothills. 

Walking Trail Map

Most subdivisions in Loveland have a walking trail nearby or at least within a short drive.  22 miles of trails border the city.  One of my favorite is the trail by Horseshoe Lake and Boyd Lake.  It's so beautiful to look at the lake. You will also meet bikers and others walkers who will greet you with a smile.

There are many other paths around town that are not on this major route. They are smaller and pass through the subdivisions or parks.

Major Walking map of Loveland

Maps are available to pick up at numerous locations around the city, including the Loveland Visitor's Center, Boyd Lake State Park, Chilson Recreation Center, various bicycle shops, or at the Parks & Recreation administrative office (500 E. Third St., Suite 200). 

If you are interested in more information about the different kinds of trails and locations, go to the City of Loveland.

Move To Loveland

It's a great place to live.  Not only is it beautiful, but if you are looking for a healthy place to live or relocate to, reach out to me at 970-672-6069.  Turn Key Realty will help you buy the perfect real estate to stay happy and healthy.   

 

Loveland Library - Inform, Enrich, and Inspire

You can do or find anything you can imagine at the Loveland Library located at 300 N Adams Ave in Loveland, CO.  The Loveland Public Library is a dynamic, evolving organization, dedicated to providing our community members equal access to the space, information, and resources they need. They are a medium-sized library serving a community of 70,000, tucked in the Front Range of the Colorado Rocky Mountains. They completed a LEED Gold-certified renovation and expansion in 2012, with special focus on cutting-edge technologies and education resources. The mission of the Loveland Public Library is to inform, enrich, and inspire, thereby engaging and strengthening the community.

COMPUTER LAB
47 computers make up the computer lab.  All you need to do is scan your library card to reserve a computer.  There is a 2 hour time limit and is free.  Printers are available for a fee

Computer Classes are held on a regular basis and can be taken in person or online.  They offer classes on Wordpress, Excel, computer basics, Gmail 101, and many other classes.  

DOWNLOADABLES
The library has many resources to download movies, books, courses, and even the New York Times.  Why pay for this entertainment or information if you don't have to.  The resources available to you are so vast that you will never get bored.

EVENTS
The events are vast at the Loveland Public Library.  Children events are a big draw for the library.  Preschool story time, Robokids, and the Library Play group are just a few of the children events held weekly or monthly.

For the adults the library offers a Knitting group, book groups, Geneology help, a Mahjong Group, and other events.  This bi-monthly calendar will help you determine what is going on and when.

BUSINESS HELP
If you want to learn about small business loans, Colorado Small business resources, or even National Small business resources, the library and it's staff are more than happy to help you with your search.  With your library card you can go to Lynda.com.  It's a leading online learning platform and helps anyone learn about business, software, technology, and creative skills to achieve personal and professional goals.