Aspen

Thinking of buying a home or other real estate in the Aspen area? I have some tips and background information you should consider.

1. If you’re thinking of relocating to or moving within our area, please allow me a few days of lead time. Sitting down with you for 30 minutes or so before jumping out to look at properties will end up saving you valuable vacation time and money. I’ll then be able to zero in on what works best for you.
2. There are different types of agency in Colorado. At our meeting, we will discuss whether you want me to be your buyer’s agent or prefer to work with me as a transaction broker.
3. Some of the areas in the Roaring Fork Valley have real estate transfer taxes and some do not. I can differentiate these for you. In addition, some properties have rental restrictions imposed, which I can also illuminate for you. Needless to say, if you desire to rent out a property to offset your expenses, you won’t want to waste time looking at a property that has rental limitations.
4. If you like to have your pets with you, you’ll want me to disclose which properties have restrictions against them and which do not. For example, some condominium properties may restrict all pets or allow one dog, some two dogs, and some a cat but not a dog!
5. Many of the listings in our area require 24 hours of notice and may only be available to be seen during the day when you may prefer to be skiing or doing something else. Unfortunately when guests are in residence in listed properties, they do not want to be disturbed with showings outside of the hours of 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and may only permit showings on certain days. The more lead time I have from you, the more choices we’ll be able to get you in to preview. If you hire me as your buyer’s agent, we can also look at properties that are not listed but may be “quietly” for sale.
6. If you’ve been to our area numerous times or already live here and are familiar with the neighborhoods or communities, please let me know. If not, I am happy to provide you with an overview of the different communities and particular aspects of each in order to help you decide which neighborhoods are the best fit for your needs.
7. If you will not be paying cash for your property, please let me know upfront. I’ll be happy to provide you with a list of several potential lenders, who may be able to pre-approve you for a loan contingent upon only the property appraisal. This will put you in a better bargaining position in terms of an offer.
8. Call on me as your local resource. As long-time locals, between my wife and me, we can answer all your questions about the community, various activities, location of amenities and more. We’re happy to welcome you here and share what Aspen has to offer. Most of our clients and customers become our long-terms friends as well!