Big Elk Meadows - A private lake subdivision surrounded by forest

WHAT TO DO WITH AN UNFINISHED BASEMENT

Although currently dimly lit and a little rough on the eyes, your unfinished basement still has a lot of potentials. With just a little love and the help of the following ideas, you can spice it up in no time and get some great use out of the space. 

 Add a pop of color. 

Give your basement a whole different look without a big renovation by adding some color to space. Consider painting and sealing the floors, opening up the room by painting the rafters white or a light color, or creating a bold accent wall. 

Divide the space. 

Want to make your basement a multi-use room? Partition out the area by installing an inexpensive curtain system. This can be done either with a curtain track or a simple wire, some hooks, and curtains will suffice.

Add foam mats. 

Whether you’d like to use the basement as a home gym to get a quick workout in or a place for the kids to play and rough house, adding some foam mats into the mix is a great and easy solution. They come in various colors and can quickly be picked up and tucked away if need be. 

Use a large rug. 

As an alternative to adding mats, find a large, eye-catching rug to be used as a focal point, and furnish the area around it. 

Add lighting. 

Basements often offer very little built-in lighting and few outlets around the room. Consider stringing café lighting across space from the rafters to give a nice ambiance and glow without any difficult electrical work.

Home Warranty Vs Home Insurance

When purchasing a new home, it’s important to do in-depth research on all facets of the homebuying process. One thing you’ll need to understand is how to best protect yourself and your investment if anything were to go wrong. Check out the information on home insurance versus home warranty below to educate yourself on your options.

Home Insurance

Homeowners insurance pays for any accidental damages and loss that are caused by fire, lightning strikes, windstorms, and hail, however, damage from earthquakes and floods is typically not covered. It also covers the replacement of personal property in case of theft or damage and liability if a person were to get injured in your home or on your property. According to American Home Shield, the average annual cost of a homeowner's insurance policy ranges between $300 and $1,000, and the bank usually asks you to obtain a policy before the mortgage is issued. Make sure to keep in mind that each type of coverage in the policy is subject to a limit and, in most cases, you will have to pay a deductible.

Home Warranty

A home warranty is designed to cover the cost of repairs and replacements of larger appliances and crucial systems in your home that may fail or break due to age and wear and tear. This includes but isn’t limited to HVAC, electrical, or plumbing components, kitchen appliances, and your washer and dryer. With a home warranty, you are required to pay premiums year-round, even if you do not use it, and it won’t cover damages if appliances were not maintained properly or if the damage is from a fire or other disaster.

The bottom-line difference with regards to warranty vs. insurance is that insurance covers unexpected events that lead to damage, while warranties cover events that are somewhat expected, such as the aging and ultimate breakdown of appliances and systems.

Visit my Youtube channel for videos on Living In Loveland CO and real estate tidbits

Cherries & The Colorado Cherry Company

Loveland was once known for having a huge cherry industry.  In 1918 Loveland had 1200 acres of cherry trees that were harvested annually. By 1945 the acres had grown to over 10,000.  Although the cherry industry is not as predominant as it was a half-century ago, locals still celebrate with a Cherry Festival at the end of June or the first part of July.

The Cherry Festival brings locals and visitors to the downtown area of Loveland.  The festival is located by the Loveland Museum at  503 N Lincoln Ave.  This annual event continues to delight all who attend.  Cherry pie and ice cream are served.  Local musicians entertain all that attend.  Vendor booths showcase local art, handmade soaps, jewelry, clothing, teas, CBD oils, and you can watch the Cherry Pie Contest. (It gets a bit messy(

A historical presentation is given commemorating all the farmers who grew, picked, and produced the cherries.  A local historian tells about the industry and how it evolved.

By the 1950s there were 154,679 cherry trees in the area and they produced 27,248,500 bushels of cherries.

Did the growth of Colorado terminate this huge industry?  This is one theory.  Others think it was a disease or that the Michigan cherry trucks were able to sell their product at a less expensive price.  Whatever it was, the Cherry Pie Festival each year is a way to celebrate our heritage and enjoy the local music, art, and vendors.  Oh, and did I say enjoy the cherry pie and ice cream!!!

If you are hungry for a cherry pie and don't want to wait until next year to participate in the festivities, you can always go to the Colorado Cherry Company.  It's located on West Hwy 34.  The Colorado Cherry Company makes fresh cherry pie each day.

If you want more information about the Colorado Cherry Company click here.

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.  

Moving Out Of The Area? Realtors are Great Resources

Real estate agents are a great resource if you planning on buying a home or selling a home. But, did you know that when you move out of the area, they also can be a valuable resource?    I, like other agents, are continually seeking continuing education.  During conferences, webinars, virtual learning events, I am networking with other agents around the world.

Why Is This Important To You

As a Certified Residential Specialist, Buffini and Company agent, an Independent Broker Group agent, and many other certifications and groups that I belong to, I have access to the best of the best agents.  These agents come from all walks of life and locations.

It is important to me, and to you, to refer you to an agent I know is ethical, is the right fit for you, and who is knowledgeable about the area that you are moving to.

Why Not Just Call Anyone

When you decide to move, you will have a lot of other things to think about.  Moving companies, schools, new jobs, what location should I buy-in, where can I stay temporarily, etc.  Why leave it to chance.  The most important decision you make is for your family.  The agents I recommend for you can be a great wealth of information such as Dr's, Vet, church, good places to eat or places to explore.  You could get an agent who is new to the business.  Everyone needs to start somewhere but when you are moving to a location you are not familiar with, I'm not sure this is a good choice.

I am not just real estate agents but a good resource and wealth of knowledge about the market.

When To DIY and When To Get Help

Homeowners can see expenses add up quickly. From home improvement projects to ticky-tack repairs, people are looking to avoid additional costs for their home. But what projects make sense to take care of on your own, and which ones need professional assistance? Here are some examples that will help guide your plans and know which projects to DIY and when to get help!

DIY Projects 

Clogged pipes

You can often fix these with plungers or commercial drain cleaning products.

Broken toilet handle

If your toilet doesn’t flush, remove the tank lid and see if the chain is detached from the lever.

HVAC maintenance

You can easily change your system’s filter yourself. 

Blown fuse

Simply throwing the switch in your circuit breaker could get your power back on.

New light switches

It’s fairly easy to replace a switch. Just make sure you turn off the circuit breaker before touching any electrical outlet. home improvement 101 When to DIY and when to hire help Trained Professional Required

Trained Professional Required

Major electrical work

Anything involving wiring can be extremely dangerous and should be left to a licensed electrician. ÄExtensive plumbing replacement— Replacing any fixtures can cause extensive flooding if not done properly.

VAC installation

Since these are some of the more expensive pieces of equipment in your home, don’t try installing units yourself, as it may void the warranty.

Remodeling Projects

Don't start knocking down or building new walls without discussing the idea with a maintenance or remodeling professional.

Do it yourself or Hire a Professional?  You have to make that call depending on your confidence.  I have many resources if you are in need of a plumber, electrician, or remodel contractor.  Feel free to reach out to me for a professional.  Or a move-in ready homes or new construction homes.  Please reach out to me for any help.  970-672-6069  Margaret Herdt at Turn Key Realtyhttps://www.turnkeyrealtyco.com/.

Homeownership! shelter, stability, wealth, and pride

Homeownership is not just a roof over your head! It represents shelter, stability, wealth, and pride! For decades, homeownership has been an important part of the American Dream!  It is the biggest investment you will make in your life.  But, it's also the most rewarding and exciting.

Times are uncertain right now but statistically, there are reasons you are better off as a homeowner vs a renter.  

Non-Financial Benefits

1. Educational Achievement: Homeownership has a positive impact on academic achievement, including reading and math performance in children 3-12 years old.
2. Civic Participation: “Owning a home means owning a part of the neighborhood.” Homeowners have a stronger connection to their neighborhood and are more committed to volunteer.
3. Health Benefits: Adjusting for a range of demographic, socioeconomic and housing-related characteristics, homeowners have a substantial health advantage over renters.
4. Public Assistance: The reports show 47% of homeowners use their home equity credit lines to help pay other debts, diminishing their need for public assistance.
5. Property Maintenance and Improvement: A well-maintained home not only generates benefits through consumption and safety, but a high-quality structure also raises mental health.
6. Pride of Ownership: This place is unique.  It's “yours.” You can customize it according to your likes and personality.

In addition to financial benefits, homeownership also brings significant social benefits. These not only pertain to the family, but extend to the communities, the state, and the country!

Financial Reasons - Buying a home is an investment in your future!

1. Appreciation: On average, home prices are appreciating annually at a rate of 3.6%. This helps to create a safety net.
2. Forced Savings: Your mortgage is like a forced savings plan! With each payment, you are reducing the principal of your loan.
3. Home Equity: Homeownership builds equity every single month. You can later use that equity to start a business, send your children to college, etc.
4. Net Worth: A homeowners’ net worth is 44x greater than renters! This gives you the financial freedom to invest.  
5. Stability: Rent prices are projected to increase by 2.3% in 2020! A fixed mortgage payment allows you to save for future projects and guard against inflation. According to the National Association of Realtors, after 6 years, you will be putting money in your pocket vs renting.  
6. Tax Benefits: The government has created tax benefits to encourage customers to purchase. (Talk to your CPA to see which benefits apply to you).

Statisticians/economists at the National Association of Realtors research these facts daily and have for centuries.  Don't put off having shelter, stability, wealth, and pride of ownership.  You deserve that to yourself.  

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

How Martin Luther King Day Relates to Federal Fair Housing

Today is Martin Luther King Day.  Celebrate Civil Rights and the Federal Fair Housing Act.

Five days after the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr, the Federal Fair Housing Act was passed.  It essentially extended the same discrimination protections contained within the 1964 Civil Rights Act to the housing industry.

Within the Federal Fair Housing Act, those individuals (realtors, lenders, property managers, etc) who facilitate a housing transaction must adhere to the rules of this Act. 

The classes of people this act protects are:

• Color
• Disability
• Familia Status  
• Parents who have one or more children under the age of 18 living with them.
• Legal guardians who have one or more children under the age of 18 living with them.
• The designee of the parent or legal guardian of a child under the age of 18. This designation must have been made in writing by the child’s parent or legal guardian.
• A person in the process of being granted legal custody of a child under the age of 18.
• Pregnant women.
• National Origin
• Race
• Religion
• Sex

Examples of discriminatory housing allegations based on membership in a protected class may include, refusal to rent, unequal terms and conditions, discriminatory financing, failure to provide reasonable accommodation or modification for a person with a disability, refusal to sell, and retaliating against someone who has exercised his/her fair housing rights.  These are just a few examples.  

We've come a long way since Dr. King changed the world, but we still have a ways to go.  Discrimination still exists in our country, even in the housing industry.  If you feel you are a victim of Federal Fair Housing, you have one year to file a complaint with the Colorado Civil Rights Division

Here at Turn Key Realty, our agents have taken extensive training on Federal Fair Housing.  We pride ourselves abiding by the rules set for by National Association of Realtors and Federal Fair Housing.

Put $$'s In Your Pocket - Senior Property Tax Exemption

Do you want to put $$'s in your pocket?  It's really easy with the Colorado Senior Property Tax Discount Program.  The Colorado State Property Tax program was reinstated in 2012.  As long as the program is funded, and if you qualify, 50% of the first $200,000 in the actual value of the primary residence is exempted from property tax.  Once an exemption application is filed and approved by the assessor, the exemption remains in effect until a disqualifying event occurs.

Who Qualifies

• Are at least 65 years of age PRIOR to January 1 of the year of application
• Owned the home for at least 10 consecutive years prior to January 1, and
• Occupied the home as their primary residence for at least 10 consecutive years prior to January 1.
• Surviving spouses of seniors who qualified

How To Apply - Larimer County

• Pick up a form at the Larimer County Assessor office - application available Jan 1
• Address:  200 Oak Street, Fort Collins 
• Phone:  970-498-7073
• Apply before July 15th
• Mail Form to:                                                                                                                                 Larimer County Assessor -                                                                                               Senior Exemptions Processing PO Box 860 Fort Collins, CO 80522                               Phone: (970) 498-7073                                                                                                     Email: grahamsm@larimer.org

How To Apply - Weld County

• Pick up a form at the Weld County Assessor office in Greeley
• Address:  1400 N 17th Ave, Greeley 
• Phone:  970-400-3650
• Apply before July 15th
• You can request a form by emailing:  assessor@weldgov.com

For additional information, you can download the brochure published by the State of Colorado

Colorado's Changing Colors

September is a month for winding down the summer and getting ready for the wonderful fall that we have here in Colorado.  The leaves will be changing to beautiful yellows, and reds, and orange colors very soon.  

Aspen trees are some of the most beautiful trees in Colorado.  You can see patches of them in the mountains as you travel to the Rocky Mountain National Park.  Their brilliant yellow coloring splashes the roadways and bike/walking trails from September to October.  Poudre Canyon has some amazing bike trails as well as these other five trails. 

Colorado also has the pleasure of oak and maple trees.  Usually, these types of trees have gorgeous scarlet, crimson, and ruby hues.  The pigment in the tree plays a key role in getting the trees ready for the spring.  The chemical in the leaf act as a sunscreen, protecting leaves, especially evergreen trees.  With Colorado's 360 days of sun, the trees need as much sunscreen as they can get.  The red color can also serve to ward off insects and bugs.  Some insects laying eggs in the fall may seek other, weaker trees for their offspring.

The crisp cool changes in temperature during the fall start the food-making process of the leaves.  The length of daylight also has a bearing on the colors changing.  The chlorophyll breaks down, the green color disappears, and the yellow to orange colors become move visible and give leaves the part of their fall splendor. 

Hiking and biking on one of Colorado's most treasured activities.  What better way to get outside and discover the beautiful splendor of the fall in the Rockies.  

If you are interested in living in Colorado, call Margaret at 970-672-6069  Turn Key Realty

The Role of a Personal Representative or Executor

One of the most important reasons to make a will is to name your executor -- commonly called a “personal representative” in Colorado.  If the person serving is a female -- an executrix. After your death, your executor's primary job is to protect your property until any debts and taxes have been paid, and then transfer what's left to those who are entitled to it.

What is Your Role as an Executor

• (1) determine if there are any probate assets;

• (2) identify, gather, and inventory the assets of the deceased;

• (3) receive payments due to the estate, including interest, dividends, and other income (e.g., unpaid salary, vacation pay, and other company benefits);

• (4) set up a checking account for the estate;

• (5) figure out who is going to get what and how much under the Will (if there is no Will, the state’s “interstate succession laws” apply);

• (6) value or appraise the estate’s assets;

• (7) give legal notice to potential creditors (the procedure and deadlines for creditors to file claims vary from state-to-state);

• (8) investigate the validity of all claims against the estate;

• (9) pay funeral bills, outstanding debts, and valid claims;

• (10) pay the expenses of administrating the estate;

• (11) handle various paperwork, such as discontinuing utilities and charge cards, and notifying Social Security, Civil Service, and Veterans Administration of the death;

• (12) file and pay income and estate taxes;

• (13) distribute the remaining property in accordance with the instructions provided in the deceased’s Will; and

• (14) close probate.

As of 2018, only gross estates with values of more than $5.6 million are subject to federal estate taxes, but some states also impose estate taxes. Colorado is not one of those states.  They do not impose an estate tax. Your gross taxable estate is the total value of all you own, both probate assets and property that pass directly to a living beneficiary.

As you can see, serving as a personal representative can be a huge responsibility and is often a time-consuming burden. If you need help finding a good estate planning attorney, please don't hesitate to reach out to me.  I have resources to help you.

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.

Basement Remodel - What's Your Return

Basement Conversion to Living Area

I have sellers ask me all the time what they should improve.  Recently, I had a gentleman in Greeley, Colorado ask if he should finish his basement and will it be worth the expense.  According to the National Association of Realtor® Research Department, this is what they found.

Consumers’ Viewpoint After Completing the Project: 

• The top reason for doing the project: to add features/improve livability - 57 percent.
• Second most common reason: moved into the home and want to customize - 16 percent.
• Most important result: better functionality and livability - 52 percent.
• Eighty-one percent said they have a greater desire to be home since completing the project, 65 percent have an increased sense of enjoyment when they are at home, and 77 percent have a major sense of accomplishment when they think of the project.
• Joy Score: 9.5 B

Seven percent of REALTORS® have suggested sellers convert a basement to a living area before attempting to sell, but only two percent said the project most recently helped cinch a deal for them, resulting in a closed sale.

Cost Recovery:

• NARI Remodelers’ cost estimate: $40,000.
• REALTORS®’ estimated cost recovered: $25,000.
• Percent of value recovered from the project: 63 percent.

So, as you can see it is more than likely not going to make the home sell faster but will give more enjoyment to the new buyer.  While you recover some of the costs it's not 100%

If you are interested in remodeling, I have contractors who are capable of finishing a basement.  Call me at 970-672-6069  Margaret Herdt Turn Key Realty 

The Time Burden of a Probate Executor

The Executor of an estate has 75% of the work to do in a probate situation.  It's a huge time burden for those individuals who have this responsibility.  In addition to a job and your own family, the first thing an executor/attorney will do is file a petition to probate.  That's the easy part.  Here is a timeline on the process.

Step in Process Duration

Prepare and File Petition Probate	1-2 months
A court hearing on the petition for probate	2-3 months
The following are issued. letter of administration, order for probate, duties, and liabilities, issue bond (if ordered)&** letters testamentary **	2-4 months(if not contested)
Notice to Creditors	2-4 months
Notice to Department of Health Services Inventory & Appraisement	4-8 months
Pay state and Federal Taxes ( if necessary)	6-12 months
Allow or Reject Creditor Claims
Possible Preliminary Distributions
Notice to Department of Health Services (if deceased received medical)
Notice to Franchise Tax Board (if the heir is out of state)
A claim of Exemption (if assets transfer to a minor)	6-15 months
Receive Final Tax Letter from state and Federal (if appropriate)	6-18 months
File Petition for Final Distribution and Accounting	8-16 months
Hearing on Petition for Final Distribution and Accounting
Order Approving Final Distribution and Accounting
Distribution  of Assets to Heirs	9-17 months
Final Discharge Order (indicates close of probate case)	9-18 months
Final Distribution of Funds	9-18 months

In addition to the process above, if there are assets (property) to sell, then the home needs
* cleaned out
* personal property needs to be sold, auctioned or donated
* repairs need to be made
* the lawn needs to be kept up
* locksmith to rekey the property
* different insurance needs to be purchased if the home is vacant
* interview realtors
* review offers
* make any repairs the buyer may want to be done, if applicable

* transfer the deed to the new buyer

* figure out what to do with the proceeds

All these things and more can be expected of an Executor.  Other than an Attorney, your most valued resource will be a real estate team that is trained and experienced in probate and inherited property sales.  Your time is valuable and do you have the resources that my team does?  You need a probate resource!

Go to my website for additional information that our team can do for you:
www.turnkeyrealtyco.com/probate
Or contact me at 970-672-6069 for help