It’s hard to beat Friday mornings at the Farmers Market in Dillon throughout the summer. Get your fruits, veggies, fresh pastas and cheeses for the week. Enjoy lunch and live music. Take a stroll along the lake or down to the marina on a blue sky Colorado morning. The Friday Farmers Market is a great way to kick off weekends this summer.

When: Fridays, June 11 – September 3 from 9am-2pm. (No market August 6.) Markets may extend through September 24, weather dependent.

Where: Marina Park parking lot. Located on Buffalo Street, downtown Dillon.

Entertainment Schedule for the Farmers Market:

July 9 – Nancy Cook 


July 16 – Amy Mathesuis 


July 23 - Leon Littlebird 


July 30 – Doo Wop Denny 


August 6 – NO MARKET (BBQ at the Summit) 


August 13 – Doo Wop Denny 


August 20 – Jeff Powell 


August 27 – Scott Aller 


September 3 – Scott Staten 


September 10 – extended market at Marina Park 


September 17 – extended market at Marina Park 


September 24 – extended market at Marina Park

An Alpine Coaster is planned for Breckenridge with construction beginning this summer. It’s slated to operate in both the summer and winter seasons and will bring yet another element of fun and adventure to the ski resort and community.

The thrill ride’s location on Peak 8 is set to be above the Kids Castle. The ride will be approximately 2,500 feet long. Unlike the Alpine Slide (also located on Peak 8) the coaster’s cars run on a track rather than a trough and will be propelled to the beginning of the launch point, similar to a roller coaster. Participants are strapped into the individual cars and able to control the speed of the decent. The cars are fixed to the rails, therefore riders won’t be able to jump the track if they are more aggressive heading downhill. 

A similar coaster exists at Adventure Park in Glenwood Springs.

Bring on the fun! We can’t wait to test it out! 

Vail Resorts, parent company to Breckenridge Ski Resort, finished the 2009-2010 ski season stronger than the previous year, according to their earnings report released mid-June. Breckenridge had the most skier visits of the company's Colorado resorts with about 15,000 more visits than Vail. Breckenridge visits topped the previous year’s visits by 5.6 percent for this season. Vail and Beaver Creek both fell behind the previous year in skier visits (Vail fell by 1.4 percent and Beaver Creek fell by 0.4 percent) for the season.

Despite record-low snowfall in Colorado, Vail Resorts (Breckenridge, Keystone, Vail, Beaver Creek and Heavenly) had an overall visitation increase of 2.5 percent during the 2009-2010 season.

View skier visits graphs, ski school, rental/retail and lodging business recaps plus a look forward by viewing the full story as reported by the Summit Daily News.

Join us this summer for the Porch Series Concerts. Enjoy music featuring the National Repertory Orchestra ensemble on the porch of our historic brick house on Main Street. We are located at 229 South Main Street, Breckenridge between Starbucks and Bubba Gumps.

Friday, July 2, 2010 at 5:30pm

Friday, July 9, 2010 at 5:30pm

Friday, July 16, 2010 at 5:30pm

Friday, July 23, 2010 at 5:30pm

If your property falls within the Vidler Water Company boundaries of Summit County, you are likely able to participate in their water augmentation program by purchasing water rights allowing you to expand existing indoor rights to the outdoors to add an accessory dwelling (i.e. guest house), irrigated land or surface area (i.e. pond).

There are a few steps you’ll need to investigate to determine your eligibility and what the cost will be for your extended rights. Specifically, there are different costs based on whether you have an Exempt or Non-Exempt Well. If you have a Non-Exempt Well* you will most likely pay only the fees of adding, or augmenting, the rights outside as there most likely is existing augmentation for your property or subdivision. However, if you have an Exempt Well** you will have to augment the water inside your property too, which is an additional cost to the fee you pay for the outside expansion.

Vidler Water Company’s website is a great resource for the process and forms needed for the augmentation of your property. Visit vilderwater.com and click on the area to the bottom right of the site “Residents of Summit County”.  From there, you can access Augmentation Application Process Instructions, the Application itself and the Water Rights Purchase Price Worksheet, all of which will give you a better idea on cost. If you’d prefer to call Vidler Water Company, 775.885.5000.

Once the new water rights are obtained, it’s important to remember they stay with the property, not the property owner. The addition of a water feature, guest house or outdoor irrigation should be valuable additions to your property’s value if you consider selling your home down the road.

*Identify a Non-Exempt Well Permit # as a series of numbers followed by –F or –FR

**Identify an Exempt Well Permit # as a series of numbers followed by no Suffix or –A 

For over 15 years, the Town of Breckenridge has been throwing a party for locals (and that means you) to celebrate a winter of hard work and to welcome the summer. This year’s Town Party is on a Friday again and everyone is invited to join us to kick off the beginning of summer with music, socializing, fun for the kids, a Town photo and much more. Join in the fun at the Riverwalk Performing Art Center and lawn. Friday, June 18 from 4-9pm. Food and drink available. Enjoy music featuring "Mountain Standard Time" and "Hot Buttered Rum".

Thinking of listing your property? Take the time now to view your home through a potential buyer’s eyes. We’ve compiled 10 easy tips to improve your home’s appearance and get it ready to sell.

1. Curb Appeal You never get a second chance to make a first impression. Buyers will have an opinion about your home before they even walk in the door. Keep sidewalks and driveways cleared, lawns mowed and create a welcoming entry.

2. Less is More Extra furniture, overflowing bookshelves, cluttered counters and bulging closets are easy to remedy. Consider renting a storage unit for extra stuff to maximize your home’s use of space.

3. Remove the Home From Your House Remember, you want potential buyers to picture themselves in your home, so keep personal memorabilia to a minimum.

4. A Blank Canvas Use neutral paint colors so buyers can better envision their own style.

5. Lighten Up Clean the windows, keep the lights on and let the sunshine in. Make your home feel bright and cheery.

6. Doggy Day Care Not everyone is crazy about animals. Keep pet bowls, pet hair and pet smells hidden. Take your pet with you during open houses or showings.

7. Kitchen If you’re considering upgrades, the kitchen may provide the best return. You’ll typically get your money back on upgraded counter tops and appliances, but even simple fixes like new cabinet hardware, fixtures and paint will create an updated look.

8. Ambiance Freshly cut flowers, cookies and light music will make the buyer feel welcome in your home.

9. Always Be Ready Always keep your home picked up and clean, clean, clean. You never know when it might be shown.

10. Professional Staging Consider having your home professionally staged to help it stand out. A small investment can make a difference in your home’s marketability.

Breckenridge Associates Real Estate recommends several home stagers in the area. Contact your Broker/Partner to connect to a staging expert and set up a free initial consultation today.

Source: HGTV.com, RIS Media

If you are a property owner in Blue River, you may soon have the ability to access the new Blue River Sewer Line being built this summer. Switching to the new sewer line from your individual septic system could prove to be a good investment down the road as it may now allow for you to add on to your property.

The new Blue River Sewer Line plan is moving forward rapidly due to the positive feedback and support locally, and will begin to be implemented once the main line is extended from Breckenridge into Blue River this summer. District fees are being developed and are not yet available, but we can share some valuable information to help you determine if your property will be affected or if you should consider joining the district.

1.)  See the map below to view the Blue River Sewer Line plan expansion.

2.)  You don’t necessarily have to be on the new sewer line unless your septic system is failing. If you are within 400 feet of the new sewer line with a failing system, you will be required to be on the line.

3.)  The first two neighborhoods scheduled for implementation of the sewer line are Sherwood and Mountain View Subdivisions. There will potentially be additional neighborhoods added to the line down the road after the first phase is complete.

4.)  You will be responsible for having a line dug from your house to the main line by the excavator/contractor of your choice. This falls outside of the responsibility of the Upper Blue Sanitation District.

5.)  There will be a Plant Investment Fee (PIF) for your house connection. The base price has been created based on homes that are 3 bedroom/2 bathroom or smaller. The 2010 PIF cost for a 3 bedroom/2 bathroom or smaller home is a $10,710 base price. The 2010 cost for larger homes can be calculated by taking .4 x $10,710 per additional bedroom an .2 x $10,710 per additional bathroom, and then adding to the base price. These above described prices apply through December 31, 2010. Prices for 2011 have yet to be determined.

6.)  If your neighborhood or property is not planned for inclusion in the district but is near the sewer line, you will have to petition to be approved to be on the line if you’re interested and pay district fees. District fees are currently being determined by the Upper Blue Sanitation District. Payment for inclusion on the sewer line will be calculated by the level of interest among homeowners now. If homeowners opt not to participate now, but instead come on at a later date, they will pay the future rates and interest will be applied.

Contact the Upper Blue Sanitation District at 970.453.2723 for more information and to learn how this may affect your property.

Breckenridge Associates Real Estate is leading the Breckenridge market in $ Volume Sales and overall Transactions for the first quarter of 2010 among the top performing local real estate offices. The same range of data specific to Summit and Park Counties sales indicated we were the top performers in $ Volume Sales and tied for first among overall Transactions. 

Source: Summit MLS, April 7, 2010

Source: Summit MLS, April 7, 2010

Source: Summit MLS, April 7, 2010

Source: Summit MLS, April 7, 2010

 The Breckenridge Festival of Film is one of the oldest film festivals in the country. It boasts an incredible Indie presence, perhaps taking a cue from the independent spirits of the miners and gold seekers who settled in Breckenridge in 1859, 150 years ago. The Breckenridge Festival of Film returns Thursday, June 10 - Sunday, June 13, 2010, to celebrate the art of filmmaking and to celebrate 30 years of films locally.

If you haven’t attended the film festival before, consider this year’s event and you surely won’t be disappointed. You’ll be exposed to a great line-up of films and in an unassuming, approachable format – this is truly a favorite event of the locals and one not to miss.

Each year, the Breckenridge Festival of Film is hosted by none other than WNBC-TV Film Critic Jeffrey Lyons, along with his son Ben Lyons, the E! Network Daily Top 10’s film critic. More than 80 Hollywood luminaries have appeared in Breckenridge over the past 29 years, including Anna Sophia Robb, Thomas Haden Church, Donald Sutherland, Jon Voight, Michael York, Connie Nielsen, Eva Marie Saint, Alan Arkin, Lou Diamond Phillips, Jon Favreau and the late Rod Steiger. 

Prices range from $10 for individual tickets to $199 for an all-access pass. All tickets are available for purchase online at www.breckfilmfest.com or by calling 970.453.6200.

Breckenridge Festival of Film lodging rates from ResortQuest Breckenridge start at $99 per room per night. For lodging reservations and information call ResortQuest Breckenridge at 800.627.2973 and reference Code # INT BFF.

Summit MLS data indicates an increase in Summit and Park County sold residential properties and vacant land from December 1, 2009 to March 25, 2010 over the same time frame the year prior. This nearly four-month time period indicates there were 343 sales in 2009-2010 versus 251 sales in 2008-2009, a year-over-year increase of 37 percent.

The table below shows Breckenridge Associates Real Estate listings sold during the December 1, 2009 to March 25, 2010 time frame. Our listings sold during this time period over the same period the previous year have increased by more than 50 percent, a healthy improvement and strong indicator of first quarter sales for 2010.

Graph Source: Summit MLS, March 25, 2010

As the winter ski season winds down and comes to a close in Summit County, homeowners wanting to sell their mountain property will most likely list in the spring. It is typical in our market cycle for new listings to become available in the next couple of months so they can be properly marketed and exposed for the high buying season of the summer.

From a buyer’s perspective, higher inventory levels typical in the spring mean a wider range of properties to choose from. Likewise, since many wait until the summer months to begin the search for their mountain property, those starting prior to the busy season will have less competition among buyers interested in the same type of property. Savvy buyers are able to take advantage of a larger inventory and secure the best deal by beginning the search process early in the season. 

If you’re in the market for a new home and planning on buying this summer, it’s not too early to start the process now. Contact your Breckenridge Associates Real Estate broker today at 800.774.7970 or 970.453.2200 to learn more about available listings in the area.

We would be happy to provide business references from past clients. Contact our office to learn more about our local real estate team, 800.774.7970.

Timing is everything. List your property with Breckenridge Associates Real Estate now and take advantage of our summer marketing campaigns to maximize your property’s exposure during the peak selling season. Please contact us today at 800.774.7970, to learn more about our sales team and how to get your property sold.

As a locally owned and operated company, we are truly invested in making certain our community is growing, thriving and enjoyable for generations to come. To help give back and show support locally, we have chosen to focus charitable efforts in the areas of the performing arts as well as through the endorsement of successful, longstanding events. Both bring entertainment and value to our community and help cultivate Breckenridge’s success as a world-class, year-round vacation destination. We proudly support The Summit Foundation, National Repertory Orchestra, Breckenridge Music Festival, Breckenridge Film Festival and International Snow Sculpting Championships, just to name a few.

Thanks to our loyal clients, our accomplishments as a company allow for us to continue to sponsor these invaluable organizations close to our hearts.

After successfully closing two major record-breaking sales in the past couple of months as well as achieving leading brokerage status in Summit and Park County sales volume for 2009, we are pleased to report a stable stretch of accomplishments among the Breckenridge Associates Real Estate team in what has otherwise been a challenging time for many local brokerages.

The two record-breaking transactions consist of the highest-ever single-family home sale of nearly $8.3 million at the close of 2009 and the most expensive residential lot sale of $3.3 million in January of this year. Each property is ski-in, ski-out and located in the luxurious Timber Trail Subdivision near Peak 8 Village of the Breckenridge Ski Resort. Breckenridge Associates Real Estate represented the seller in both listings. The $8.3 million sale surpassed the previous record holding transaction, which was also a Breckenridge Associates Real Estate listing, by more than $2.7 million.

Local MLS data pulled at the close of 2009 has proven positive for Breckenridge Associates Real Estate in total sales volume and number of transactions in the area. The graph below shows our office as the leader in total dollar volume for the year in Summit and Park Counties among the top-15 local real estate offices.

Likewise, in overall sales we were involved in, we represented more transactions than any other off ice in Breckenridge and performed the second best out of all offices in Summit and Park Counties. The graph below is representative of Breckenridge transactions of the top-16 local real estate offices.

Not only has our brokerage driven up sales volume by selling high-end luxury homes, but we also handle a vast cross-section of properties in all price ranges. These statistics prove our team’s ability to excel in all segments of the market from entry-level condos to multimillion dollar estates.

The longstanding experience, knowledge and stability of Breckenridge Associates Real Estate allows our clients to have confidence and trust that our team will represent their property better than our competitors. With nearly 80 percent of our business comprised of loyal clients and their referrals, it’s rewarding to know we are providing the highest level of customer satisfaction. Thank you for your continued support in the past, present and future of Breckenridge Associates Real Estate.

If you are considering selling or buying property in Breckenridge or the surrounding areas and would like more information on Breckenridge Associates Real Estate and how our team can best work for you, please contact our office today at 800.774.7970 or 970.453.2200.

Graph Source: Summit MLS, March 5, 2010

Most homebuyers in search of a property automatically assume buying a foreclosed home means they’re getting the best deal out there. However, this often isn’t the case. Purchasing a foreclosed home truly can be a great investment, but it could also be an eye-opening experience for those not aware of the process and problems that can arise along the way.

Fortunately, from a property-value standpoint, we have not seen significant growth in the number of foreclosures locally as many other markets have experienced. Out of 26,765 properties in Summit County only 47 were sold as foreclosures in 2009*. Unlike many areas, Breckenridge has a high number of cash transactions. This coupled with a healthy rental pool and a stable tourism-based economy, has surely helped to keep foreclosures to a minimum in the area. That’s not to say there aren’t great opportunities. There are, however you have to stay on top of the local real estate happenings in the area not to miss out.

One of the reasons a foreclosure may not be as good of a deal as it appears to be on paper is that distressed home sellers may have more debt than just their home mortgage. They may have a lien or loans against their property, which the bank could factor into the sale price. Another issue could be the amount of work and repair needed on a home, if the sellers had stopped maintaining it. A home may sit vacant for months, which could be problematic in a winter climate such as ours, where bursting pipes can cause serious damage. Foreclosures typically take a lot longer to close on the sale, therefore buyers need to be flexible on their timeframe. Securing property prior to a foreclosure can mean the difference in having a move-in ready, beautifully furnished home versus a bank-owned home typically stripped of its contents. Buyers need to be aware of these types of concerns when pursuing a foreclosure, but if the price is right and the home is free of these types of issues, buying a foreclosed property can prove to be a very wise purchase.

Establishing a relationship with a knowledgeable broker and sharing what you are looking for up front will allow you to get a jumpstart on finding the best property for you. Knowledge of the local real estate market and access to a network of resources are invaluable in finding a great real estate opportunity. More often than not, in our market, the best real estate deals are found prior to a property facing foreclosure. Being aware of new inventory before it hits the market, monitoring shifts in the existing inventory (i.e. price reductions) and the ability to act quickly are all key strategies. A reputable real estate broker should be able to offer insight on an ideal opportunity if it arises, as they’ll be in tune with a home’s value and current financial situation, both of which will help to determine the true value of the deal.

Our team of Realtors® is out in the local market every single day, networking with our contacts and working together for our clients so we can best represent their needs. Breckenridge Associates Real Estate’s “Home Town Team” has a proven track record and longstanding success to best represent you. Contact your broker today to learn more about great deals in the area and how we can help you find your next mountain home, 800.774.7970 or 970.453.2200.

*Source: Stewart Title Company 2009 Foreclosure Data

Now is a great time to think about landscaping along with the beauty and value it can add to your property in a future sale. Our friends at 'A Cut Above Forestry' are extending a special offer Breckenridge Associates Real Estate clients to help get you started with your landscaping needs.

As a Breckenridge Associates Real Estate client, you qualify for a free, on-site tree care consultation by a certified arborist. This is a $125 value. Or, choose $50 off tree removal or re-forestation services. 

To qualify, either service must be ordered by June 1 and completed no later than September 1, 2010. The tree care consultation offer is limited to lots of one acre or less. Tree removal and re-forestation services are site-specific and will require an estimate. There is no charge for estimates.

'A Cut Above Forestry' is equipped to take care of all your forestry needs using a unique combination of cutting edge forestry and arboricultural technology as well as eco-friendly, preventative practices to provide top-notch tree and plant care to Breckenridge and the surrounding areas. Regardless of whether you need a few branches trimmed back or your entire yard replanted, their team will work closely with you to best suit your needs.

Call 970.453.9154 and mention the "Breckenridge Associates Real Estate" special client offer or visit the 'A Cut Above Forestry' website http://www.acutaboveforestry.com/ for more information.

April brings some of the best skiing and riding conditions of the season with sunny skies, endless activities and affordable prices. Enjoy Breckenridge’s Spring Massive with a line-up of events not to miss! Get your live music fix at Copper’s Annual Sunsation where you’re sure to find a band you can jam with! Check out the vibe of the Beach Scene at A-Basin or the giant kids’ snow fort at Keystone Mountain’s Kidtopia! Stay the night, the weekend or the week with the best rates of the season.

Links to April Fun in the Mountains

Breckenridge Ski Resort’s Spring Massive http://www.breckenridge.com/events/spring-massive.aspx

Copper Mountain Ski Resort’s Annual Sunsation http://www.coppercolorado.com/winter/landingpages/sunsation.htm

A-Basin Ski Resort’s Beach Scene http://www.arapahoebasin.com/ABasin/mountain/the-beach.aspx

 Keystone Mountain Ski Resort’s Kidtopia http://www.keystoneresort.com/eventdetail/Kidtopia+-+Apr.axd?year=2010&month=4&eventview=calendarview

Links to Great Lodging Deals

Go Breck Now http://www.gobrecknow.com/ 

Ski Country Resorts & Sports http://www.skicountry.com/

The Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC) and many local businesses are generously donating a week of skiing and relaxation in early April for 10 military heroes and their families associated with the Wounded Warrior Project. Another local organization in the area is hoping to generate enough in donations to present a fully framed Breckenridge panoramic photograph to each of the families as a way of saying “thank you”.  

This project is designed to provide some much deserved mental and physical relief for the men and woman who serve in the military and protect our way of life by putting themselves in harms way. 

There is goal is to raise about $800-$900 to purchase the matting and frames for these 26” x 10” panoramic photographs and ship them to these residences of the Wounded Warriors after their week in Breckenridge, Colorado.

The group putting together the photos and framing is called Real Marketing Tools. They can be reached at 970-390-9715.

Congratulations to all the snow sculpting teams at this year's spectacular event. The display of talent for the 20th year was truly second to none. Breckenridge Associates Real Estate is very proud of our own Team Breck's snow art masterpiece, titled "String Theory". They were the big winners in our book! Our hats off to the competition and award-winners for another successful week in Breckenridge, Colorado.

Following are photos of the final "String Theory" and an explanation to the thought process behind the sculpture. Looking forward to seeing you again next year!

String Theory - “Each of our souls is like the vibrating string of the violin; resonating from the most profound sub-atomic level to the celestial reaches beyond. Music is the portal that allows us to connect our spirit to the sublime, and to grasp our place in it.”

String theory is a new branch of physics. It is a theoretical description that has shown great promise in uniting our understanding of what happens at the sub-atomic level with what we believe to be true in the larger world of matter and energy. To date, the laws that appear to govern these two domains are irreconcilable, and obviously this cannot be correct. Finding a bridge between these two clearly interconnected realities has been the Holy Grail of physics for decades.

String Theory describes all matter and energy as being composed of tiny, vibrating “strings”, each with its unique resonance, or harmonic.

View a full time lapse video of String Theory and the week of competition here http://skicountryhomes.com/videos/sculptures_2009.mov.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEAS

Contact:  Laurie Huggins

Telephone: 970-453-2200

Cell: 970-389-4000

Email: laurie@breckenridgeassociates.com

Breckenridge Associates Real Estate Earns Website Quality Certification

Designation signifies excellence in corporate website.

Breckenridge, Co – February 17, 2010  – Breckenridge Associates Real Estate has earned the Website Quality Certification (WQC), presented by Leading Real Estate Companies of the World^® to member companies that have demonstrated excellence in website design, functionality and execution.

Every aspect of the site, www.breckenridgeassociates.com, was reviewed to ensure exacting standards were met in eight key areas, ranging from design and content to human interactivity to search engine optimization.  The WQC was introduced in 2009 to recognize and encourage superior websites among Leading Real Estate Companies of the World’s 600 member firms. Breckenridge Associates Real Estate is one of 64 initial applicants to earn the designation.

“A real estate company’s website plays an increasingly significant role with today’s consumers, who often go there first when considering buying or selling a home.  It is thus critical to use this Internet medium to attract and engage consumers in a meaningful way,” said Pam O’Connor, president/CEO of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World^®.

For more information about Breckenridge Associates Real Estate, please visit www.breckenridgeassociates.com.

# # #

About Breckenridge Associates Real Estate

Breckenridge Associates Real Estate is a top-performing Summit County real estate brokerage with more than $111 million in sales volume transactions in 2009, focusing on the luxury real estate market. Breckenridge Associates Real Estate is a locally owned and operated real estate company comprised of 15 Broker/Partners, located on historic Main Street, Breckenridge, CO. www.breckenridgeassociates.com.

About Leading Real Estate Companies of the World^®

Leading Real Estate Companies of the World^® www.LeadingRE.com is a global real estate network comprised of over 600 of the best-known local and regional real estate firms. With nearly 5,000 offices and 150,000 sales associates in the United States and 35 countries abroad, LeadingRE affiliates sell almost $300 billion in home sales, representing nearly one million transactions annually. The network has #1 market share in more of the top 88 U.S. markets than any national brand, representing a powerful force in American real estate.

Ullr has delivered some fantastic powder to Breckenridge and Summit County, Colorado over the past week. In fact, we've had more than 2 feet at the mountain in the last seven days. Be sure to come up and test it out, now is the time with fantastic conditions and more snow in the forecast over the next several days! 

Check out these great photos of a local moose taken in Breckenridge over the weekend by one of our brokers. Talk about getting up close and personal with nature!

Did you know, you don't always have to pay to park to access skiing and riding at Breckenridge? Park at the Gondola North, Gondola South and Gold Rush Lots for free during the week if you carpool with 4 or more friends, and the cost increases to just $5 on the weekends. Parking at most paid lots is free after 2pm and the Airport Road Lot is free all day, every day.

Daily Parking Details follow:

Gondola South Lot, Gondola North Lot, Gold Rush Lot - Monday through Thursday, $5. Friday through Sunday + holidays, $10. (Holidays are 3/15-3/18/10)

Save with Parking Packs - pre-paid 5-pack, $35; pre-paid 10-pack, $60

Drive with 4+ people and receive a discount at the above lots - weekdays, free; weekends, $5

Beaver Run Lot - daily, $15; save $5 at this lot when you carpool with 4+ people

Town of Breckenridge Paid Parking Lots - daily, $15

Free Parking - Airport Road Lot, satellite parking with free shuttle to/from Gondola; All paid lots are free after 2pm (Town of Breckenridge Lots are free after 3pm)

Subject to change. For additional parking details and maps, visit http://www.breckenridge.com/mountain/mountain-information.aspx#parking%23Top.

The Gondola Lot Plan development is now a step closer to fruition with approval of the overall plan from Breckenridge Town Council provided late January 2010. The vision has been a collaborative effort between Vail Resorts Development Company (VRDC) and the Town of Breckenridge to ensure the last major development for Breckenridge will create an authentic “Breckenridge” story, staying true to the existing character of the town.

Adding the gondola was the first step in connecting the ski area to the town and providing a more integrated guest experience. Further enhancements in the Gondola Lot Plan, such as adding a landmark building, creating in-town après ski in a downtown environment, enhanced vehicle and pedestrian connections, conference space and more convenient parking are the next phase in the integration and will continue to heighten the appeal of Breckenridge as a world-class ski destination.

Highlights of the Gondola Lot Plan may include a 162-room hotel, 42 condos/townhomes, 12,000 square feet of commercial space, two parking garages with 1,558 parking spaces and an expanded skier services/transit building.

Additionally, there are proposed public amenities such as an extension of the Riverwalk area’s paths and bridges and the creation of The Gondola Plaza. The vision of The Gondola Plaza serves not only to access the gondola but may offer such amenities as a children’s play area, an ice skating rink, outdoor seating and space for summer art fairs or outdoor concerts. Plans include a revitalization of the Blue River corridor and habitat to create a more natural river condition through landscaping and design. The Blue River is already a great asset to town and will be key in tying the entire new development together. 

Aesthetic and sustainability are major components of the Gondola Lot Plan. Architecture should be a compatible style to that of downtown Breckenridge, but the character of each building may differ. The Mixed Use Building aims to be the closest visually to the South 100 block of Main Street. The Skier Services/Transit Building is proposed to represent traditional train depots of the west. The Condo Hotel Building will be designed to serve as an iconic landmark playing a major role in the Gondola Lot Plan and may mirror the style of a traditional downtown western hotel. Townhomes will be reflective of the look of the northern Main Street community and Parking Structures are intended to blend into their surroundings, lessening their visual impact.

The Gondola Lot Plan is expected to explore and use ways to reduce the environmental and carbon impact of the development. The town’s sustainability code will be adhered to for the overall plan.

The project’s location is a combination of properties generally bordered by Ski Hill Road, Highway 9, North Main Street and French Street, and additionally, the Gold Rush lot to the west of Highway 9. Vail Summit Resorts, Inc. owns the majority of the site. Other properties include the existing main town transit station and bus parking area, small parking areas and the Blue River Corridor owned by the Town of Breckenridge.

Now that Town Council has given the official approval, VRDC will move forward with greater detailed components of the plan, requiring more approvals along the way. VRDC intends to complete the development over the next five to 10 years as market conditions allow.

If you would like to stay informed of real estate opportunities as the Gondola Lot Plan Development progresses, contact your Broker/Partner so that we can keep you up-to-date on the latest news.

Source: VRDC & Town of Breckenridge

The most expensive lot in Breckenridge, Colorado closed January 27, 2010 for $3,300,000.

On the heels of the record setting highest priced residence ever purchased in Breckenridge, Colorado for $8,285,000, another real estate record has been broken. The highest priced residential vacant lot (single family home building site) sold late January for $3,300,000.

The latest transaction is Lot 22 in the exclusive ski-in, ski-out neighborhood of Timber Trail. It is .55 acres and sits directly on Trygve’s Run, in close proximity to the new Peak 8 Village of Breckenridge Ski Resort. This is the premiere lot in Breckenridge with 360-degree views and unparalled ski area access. With the most recent sale, there are now only two available lots for purchase on Trygve’s Run.

Breckenridge Associates Real Estate continues to be in the forefront in record sales, with Dan Corwin being the Listing Broker for this transaction. This sale shows unique and desirable properties are still in demand and the current momentum continues to show signs of growth, especially in the luxury segment.

The snow sculpting competition has started and Team Breck has set out to create another masterpiece for this year's 20th year celebration of the International Snow Sculpture Championships in Breckenridge, Colorado. We are thrilled to see our very own Breckenridge Associates Real Estate team, and event founders, out competing with what we think is going to be a head-turning, awe-inspiring work of art.

Head out to the parking lot behind the Riverwalk Center in Breckenridge throughout the week to see their progress as they transform the large block of snow into "String Theory". Judging takes place on Saturday and you can view the sculptures all next week as well. Read the artists' description and view the model below. But, come see the real thing for yourself. 

Go get 'em Rob, Ron and Tom! Best of luck to Team Breck!

String Theory

“Each of our souls is like the vibrating string of the violin; resonating from the most profound sub-atomic level to the celestial reaches beyond. Music is the portal that allows us to connect our spirit to the sublime, and to grasp our place in it.”

String theory is a new branch of physics. It is a theoretical description that has shown great promise in uniting our understanding of what happens at the sub-atomic level with what we believe to be true in the larger world of matter and energy. To date, the laws that appear to govern these two domains are irreconcilable, and obviously this cannot be correct. Finding a bridge between these two clearly interconnected realities has been the Holy Grail of physics for decades.

String Theory describes all matter and energy as being composed of tiny, vibrating “strings”, each with its unique resonance, or harmonic.

We're couldn't be prouder of this year's Breckenridge Ullr King & Queen - Rob and Deb Neyland - from Breckenridge Associates Real Estate's team of Broker/Partners!

Rob & Deb Neyland - 2010 Ullr Fest Royalty (from Breckenridge Associates Real Estate)

They've been given the great responsibility of helping Ullr, the Norse God of Snow, bring more fluffy white snow we like to play in all winter long to Breckenridge and the Colorado Rockies. Look for them tonight making their rounds at the Ullr Parade on Main Street in Breckenridge and throughout Ullr celebrations. Congratulations Rob and Deb!

Rob & Deb Neyland pictured with Robin & Patty Theobald (2009 King & Queen)

It’s that time of year again where Ullr (pronounced Ooh-ler), the mythical Norse god of Winter, blesses Breckenridge, Colorado with the finest snow in the world. To help repay Ullr for his gift of snow, the Breckenridge community gathers together with a grand week-long winter festival like no other, January 10-16, 2010. You won’t want to miss the amazing energy this event brings to Main Street and beyond. There’s something for everyone to enjoy: live entertainment and a bar series, a Nordic event, an ice skating party, the Ullympics and the unforgettable Ullr Parade.

This year, our very own – Rob Neyland and his wife Debbie – have been honored as Ullr King and Queen. You’re sure to see them throughout the week as they help celebrate all things Ullr. We hope you will join us for the fun this festival brings and let’s all hope that Ullr continues to bring us more and more fluffy, white snow this winter!

2010 Schedule of Events

Ullr Skating Party – January 10 (1:15-4:30pm):  Join the fun at the Stephen C. West Arena, hosted by the BRC Ambassadors. Proceeds benefit Al Chaffee Scholarship program, helping local students.

Ullr Nordic Party & Bonfire – January 11 (5:30-9pm):  The crowning of the Ullr King & Queen, food and a cash bar. The crowning is followed by a beginner-friendly Nordic ski and snowshoe to the bonfire. It takes place at Gold Run Nordic Center on the Breckenridge Golf Course.

The Dating Game Breckenridge-Style – January 12 (8pm):  Adults over the age of 21 are welcome to attend Breckenridge’s version of the Dating Game at Cecilia’s Bar & Nightclub. Apply to be a bachelor or bachelorette and meet some Breckenridge’s finest guys and gals! Call 970.453.2234.

Ullympics – January 13:  Co-ed teams compete like for fun and prizes in three events at Carter Park. An after party follows at a local joint with beer and prize giveaways. Get ready for some fun.

Ullr Parade – January 14 (4:30pm):  The infamous Ullr parade kicks-off on North Main Street and continues south through the heart of Breckenridge. This is one you cannot miss!

Comedy Night – January 15:  Laugh the night away with stand-up talent from Comedy Works of Denver. Enjoy light appetizers, good friends, giveaways and a cash bar.

Chili Cook Off Event – January 16 (3-8pm):  The Breckenridge Mountain Rotary Club Chilly Chili Cook Off at the Riverwalk Center. Taste samples from local and world famous chili chefs,  enjoy live entertainment and fun activities for the whole family.

Email events@gobreck.com for Ullr Fest registration and participation information.

Events and times subject to change.

In what has been an uncertain economic year, Breckenridge and Summit County real estate have faired well according to local MLS data obtained at the close of 2009. In a year over year comparison to 2008, real estate sales volume and overall transactions were down between 12% and 13% in Breckenridge, and in the surrounding Summit and Park County areas the same numbers dropped between 13% and 15%. Summer and fall months gained momentum with approximately 72% of Summit and Park County transactions taking place the second half of the year.

With average sales realizing 2005 prices, buyers sought and were able to find better local deals in 2009 than in the last 10 years. First-time homebuyers took advantage of the government tax credit and were able to enter into the market. This year also marked a record sale in the Breckenridge luxury market at nearly $8.3 million, beating the previous record holding transaction by more than $2.7 million.

A successful local economy where developers and ski resorts continue to invest in capital improvements and new development coupled with limited supply of real estate inventory have helped to somewhat shelter our towns from the turbulent year many U.S. real estate markets have experienced. We look forward to 2010 as well as a whole new decade of exciting opportunities in Breckenridge, Summit and Park County real estate.

Breckenridge Associates Real Estate is leading the charge through number of transactions and dollar volume sales in 2009. Data is based on MLS real estate transactions January 1–December 31, 2009.

BRECKENRIDGE

Breckenridge Associates Real Estate is the #1 performing real estate office of 2009 in Breckenridge.

 Graphs based on both listing and selling side transactions and sales volume pulled from the local MLS.

ALL AREAS (Summit & Park County)

Breckenridge Associates Real Estate is a top-performing brokerage in 2009 in Summit and Park Counties.

Graphs based on both listing and selling side transactions and sales volume pulled from the local MLS.

The most expensive listing in Breckenridge, Colorado closed December 30, 2009 for $8,285,000.

This record-setting sale is a ski-in, ski-out premier property located in the prestigious Timber Trail Subdivision on Peak 8 of the Breckenridge Ski Resort, and is one of only three lots directly on Trygve’s Ski Run. It is a true work of art and irreplaceable property built around the unique location and ski resort views with meticulous attention to detail and every desired amenity. The selling price for the 6,565-square-foot home was $8,285,000, or $1,262 per square foot. Listing broker for the property was Andy Clapp of our Breckenridge Associates Real Estate office. 

This beautiful estate property (shown in the above image) was designed by Suzanne Allen-Guerra and built by Ethan Guerra.

The previous record sale in Breckenridge was a $5,550,000 home, also listed by Breckenridge Associates Real Estate. It sold in July 2008. This new sale breaks the previous record by $2,735,000. The Breckenridge Associates Real Estate brokerage was also responsible for two prior highest sales in the area over the past several years. The luxury category in Breckenridge and its greater surrounding areas of Summit & Park Counties have paced very well in the $2 million and above range for 2009. Year-over-year transactions in this segment specific to single family homes grew from 21 in 2008 to 23 at the close of 2009. Breckenridge Associates Real Estate was involved in 22% of these transactions.

The local real estate market has also shown signs of steady growth in month-to-month transactions from June – October 2009 and a November 2009 indicating improved numbers over 2008, according to a Land Title Guarantee Company Year-to-Date through November Market Analysis released last week (see graph below).

Additional property details on the recent $8,285,000 transaction include: seven bedrooms, nine bathrooms, four fireplaces, three-car garage, three laundry rooms, top-of-line finishes and detail such as custom iron work fixtures, beautiful stained glass, wide plank Norwegian Elm flooring, Smart Home features and a 2,000-square-foot heated patio with awe-inspiring views of the ski resort’s Horseshoe Bowl. This extraordinary mountain estate is Breckenridge luxury at its best, an impeccable property where generations will gather for years to come.

The lot listed beside the newly sold property and adjacent to Trygve’s Ski Run is also for sale through Breckenridge Associates Real Estate for $3,500,000. 

Contact your Broker/Partner to learn more about our local real estate market, including market reports, available listings and opportunities in Summit County.

On Friday, January 29, the evening prior to the International Snow Sculpture Championships judging, all of the sculptors are allowed to work through the night. Many are there all night long, and most are working to complete their sculptures. There's typically a strong following of dedicated spectators getting "up-close and personal" with the artists as they carefully and precisely execute their final touches on their sculptures. It’s a great time to observe as the artists complete the final detail on their works of art. This is a welcome opportunity for the public to enjoy a casual “communal” campfire, to share in the camaraderie among the teams, and (or so we've heard) to offer a toast to their or somebody’s impending victory. Located onsite at the International Snow Sculpture Championship event, behind the Riverwalk Performing Arts Center.

Come celebrate 20 years of snow art in Breckenridge, January 26-February 7, 2010, as artists from around the world come together to carve and create beautiful masterpieces from 20-ton blocks of snow. Artists are allowed only 65 hours to transform each enormous blank canvas of snow into dimensional works of their own art – you won’t believe the masterpieces made from blocks of snow. This is a signature Breckenridge event – not to miss!

In this commemorative celebration of the 20^th year of the official international snow sculpting event in Breckenridge, we’d like to pay tribute to the history of snow sculpting in our local town with a story told from one of the event founders and Breckenridge Associates Real Estate Broker/Partner, Rob Neyland, about how he and Team Breckenridge (made up of Neyland along with Ron Shelton & Tom Day – also Broker/Partners of our real estate office) started what is today a world-class event in Breckenridge, Colorado.

Creating A Snow Sculpting Event in Breckenridge, Colorado – as told by Roy Neyland:

My parents brought us to Breckenridge when I was a kid. Dad was determined that his family was going to know the world of snow skiing. As a teenager, I was smitten with this old-fashioned town with its own ski area. The mountains were so beautiful, there was always stuff to do, and dude, it seemed like everyone was always on vacation! Count me in.

The skiing, and boarding brought all of us together here in the first place, but it is all of the other events and activities that keep us here, and bring families back to visit. This colorful ski town is united by its passions, and celebrating these passions is where locals and visitors alike find a unique opportunity to really get involved. The zany, irreverent and home grown parades of Ullr Fest (Winter Carnival) and 4th of July are a perfect examples.

Ullr parade floats are what got us started with snow sculpting here in Breckenridge some thirty years ago. Geez, that sounds old...make it 29 years ago--we flipped a coin. Heads we entered a float in the Ullr parade, tails we entered the snow sculpting contest, and built one in front of our real estate company. Tails it was, so we raided the kitchen and garage for tools, piled up a bunch of snow and set about making us a sculpture. We won! We won money! We were hooked. We planned and plotted next year's project (with secret designs of course), and came back and won. And the year after that. I began to see pictures of snow sculptures in travel and skiing magazines, highlighting one of the unusual, engaging, non-skier aspects unique to Breckenridge. I wanted our little town to be known for this – the perfect blend of sport and artistic spirit, using Colorado's most precious natural resource, snow. One fateful January day in 1985 while we were working on our Ullr Fest sculpture, a guy came along and said, "Hey you guys are pretty good, have you ever thought about going to the Nationals?"  There's Nationals? we gasped. "You bet. And Internationals, all over the world..." Our minds were blown. We knew then and there we had to land such an event for Breckenridge.

And so began a four-year journey for Carvin' Marvin and the Snowflakes. To the U.S. Nationals and a host of international competitions – kicking a little butt, taking names, building a roster and building legitimacy for Breckenridge as a worthy place for these international sculptors to compete. 

Hey…all we needed was the ski area to make the perfect snow for us, the town's trucks and loaders and manpower to make all the uniform 20-ton snowblocks, free meals and condominiums for 80 people for a week in the middle of the ski season. Oh and by the way…could we have some ski passes and ski equipment for everyone? And one more thing…we needed an entire parking lot somewhere right in the middle of town that we can shut down for almost the whole month of January? It all sounded preposterous…But glorious!

Where else could you pull off something like this? We set out to make it happen. We hounded any organization that would listen to us – the Chamber of Commerce, the Board of Realtors, restaurants, hotels and lodging companies, ski shops, and of course the Town of Breckenridge. And wonderfully, magnificently in fact, everyone believed in the vision, and pitched in with goods and services. It was a smashing success, and now 20 years later, this annual transformation of a parking lot into a glittering sculpture park has become one of the signature events on Colorado's winter calendar.

The Breckenridge International Snow Sculpure Championships draws artist from around the globe, and tens of thousands of spectators. For many, this gleaming display is a part of their first exposure to Breckenridge. I can see it in their eyes, when we are out working on our sculptures. Their parents are bringing them to Breckenridge when they are kids, and they are never going to forget it. Yes, the sculptures melt and go away in a short time. But in that fragile, fleeting moment, hearts are touched for a lifetime.

And there you have it. Come and see the passion and beauty of this event in action January 26-February 7, 2010. Located in the large parking lot behind the Riverwalk Performing Arts Center. Check out the artists creating their works of snow art beginning Tuesday, January 26 and throughout that week. Judging takes place Saturday, January 30 and the sculptures will be on display through the following Sunday, February 7. 

Make sure to stop by and check out Team Breck, made up of Rob Neyland, Ron Shelton and Tom Day as they join together to create this year’s sculpture titled, String Theory. Following is a preview of the "secret design".

You can learn more about the symbolism of String Theory and how it relates to the Team Breck Sculpture onsite at this year's event. Please stop by to cheer on Team Breck and learn more about the artists' inspiration.

We wanted to share some of our favorite photos and a recap of the results from The Breck Snowflake Challenge, a locals' snow sculpting competition we co-presented with the Breckenridge Resort Chamber in December. Congratulations to all the participants. It was a lot of fun and brought something truly special to the Town of Breckenridge. We appreciate all of the hard work and dedication that went into all of the beautiful works of snow art! Hope to see you next year.

Sculpture: The Grinch That Stole Christmas, located in Blue River Plaza off of Breckenridge Main Street. 1st place.

Sculpture: Charlie Brown's Christmas, located in front of Main Street Outlet on Breckenridge Main Street. 2nd place.

Sculpture: Snow Globe, located in front of Paragon Lodging on Breckenridge Main Street. 5th place.

Thank you to our clients and friends for your business with Breckenridge Associates Real Estate in 2009 and over the years. Happy Holidays to you and yours! We wish you a new year filled with abundance, joy and treasured moments.

Back for its second year, the Winter Dew Tour will once again begin the three-stop series at the Breckenridge Ski Resort. This not-to-miss tour consists of three major, multi-sport events spanning across the country, with a cumulative points system, and a $1.5 million competitive purse. Each stop of the tour features men's and women's snowboard (superpipe and slopestyle), and men’s freeskiing (superpipe and slopestyle).



The Winter Dew Tour will be broadcast live on NBC Sports from 11:30am-2pm, Saturday, December 19 and 2-4pm, Sunday, December 20 with additional competition and lifestyle broadcasts on MTV, MTV2 and USA and is also distributed on Fuel TV, Universal HD, Rush HD, and internationally on Eurosport, Fox Australia, Extreme Channel and Allarco Superchannel.



The competition courses and Festival Village locations are at Peak 8 at the Breckenridge Ski Resort. Peak 8 can be accessed by taking the gondola to the Peak 8 base from Breckenridge Station in town. To access the courses by skiing or riding, take Chair 5 to 4 O’Clock to Freeway. To access the courses by hiking, start at the base of Peak 8 by the gondola.

Gondola Hours: Everyday 8am-5pm (open until 9pm on Saturday 12/19). Closed Runs: Twister and Freeway (Freeway open for viewing.)

2009-2010 Winter Dew Tour Event Line Up
Thursday, Dec. 17
9am-4pm                     Festival Village
9:30am-1pm               Snowboard Slopestyle Open Qualifier (Men)
1-4pm                          Freeski Superpipe (Men)
2:15-4pm                    Snowboard Slopestyle Open Qualifier (Women)

Friday, Dec. 18
9am-4pm                    Festival Village
9am-12:30pm            Freeski Slopestyle Open Qualifier (Men)   
10-10:45am               Snowboard Superpipe Prelims (Women)
11:05am-12:30pm    Snowboard Superpipe Prelims (Men)
1:30-4pm                    Snowboard Slopestyle Prelims (Men)
4-5:30pm                    Freeski Superpipe Prelims (Men)
7-9pm                          Concert @ the Riverwalk Center

Saturday, Dec. 19
9am-4pm                    Festival Village
9am-12:30pm            Freeski Slopestyle Open Qualifier (Men)
10-10:45am               Snowboard Superpipe Prelims (Women)
11:05am-12:30pm    Snowboard Superpipe Prelims (Men)
1:30-4pm                    Snowboard Slopestyle Prelims (Men)
4-5:30pm                    Freeski Superpipe Prelims (Men)
7-9pm                          Concert @ the Riverwalk Center

Sunday, Dec. 20
9am-4pm                    Festival Village
12pm                           Freeski Slopestyle  Final (Men)
2-2:40pm                    Snowboard Slopestyle Final (Women)
3-4pm                          Snowboard Slopestyle Final (Men)

***Schedule Subject to Change***

Visit the Breckenridge Ski Resort website for the most up-to-date event schedule for the Dew Tour.

Photos courtesy of photographer, Aaron Dodds.

Local snow artists will be hard at work this week creating snow art on the streets of Breckenridge for all to enjoy. This second year event, created by Breckenridge Associates Real Estate and produced jointly with the Breckenridge Resort Chamber, is a fun and friendly competition among locals to put out their best snow sculptures for a chance to win up to $2,000 and other generous cash prizes.



Come one, come all, but be sure to come out and cheer on our competitors this week and watch as their creations come to life. Sculpting started on December 5 and will be judged at 3pm, December 12.



Stop by Breckenridge Associates Real Estate at 229 S. Main Street for a site map of the sculpting locations this week and be sure to vote for the People’s Choice sculpture on Saturday, December 12 – also at our office. The awards ceremony follows judging Saturday from 5:30-7:30pm at the Gold Pan Saloon.

Read a recent Summit Daily News feature story on the event and visit the Breck Snowflake Challenge website for event details and history of snow sculpting in Breckenridge.

The event wouldn’t be possible without sponsorship and community support. The Breck Snowflake Challenge would like to thank: Summit Daily News, KSMT – The Mountain, Coors Tap the Rockies, Breckenridge Resort Chamber & Breckenridge Associates Real Estate.

One of our favorite family or group activities we have to check out each winter is heading up the gondola at Keystone Resort to experience the thrill of snow tubing at Adventure Point. It’s just like the tubing we all have done as kids, but with a much larger hill, its own conveyor tubing lift and much greater adventure.

Choose your adventure with three different tubing lanes. You can link tubes together or ask to get spun around by one of the guides. Try it during the day or under the lights at night. You will love the thrill of it and want to come back for more!

Hours and Dates: 
Weather dependent, Nov. 25, 2009 - April 11, 2010. Wednesday-Saturday: 12pm-3pm & 5pm-7:00pm*; Sunday: 12pm-3pm & 5pm. Sessions start on the hour and half hour. 
4pm-5pm CLOSED for grooming 
*Night tubing only open when night skiing is open.

Requirements: You must be at least 42 inches tall.

Cost: $27/person or $22/person if you choose to go and watch.

Checking in: 
Guest must check in 40 minutes prior to their reservation at the Mountain Services Center. During the Christmas holidays (12/18/09 to 1/3/10) check in should be 1 hour prior, because of possible lift lines. If guests are already on the hill skiing they must check in at Adventure Point, atop Dercum Mountain 15 minutes prior to their reservation.

Directions to the Mountain Services Center:
 Follow Highway 6 East through Keystone. Turn right at River Run Village. Turn left onto Gondola Road. Turn right into Montezuma Parking Lot. Park here. Enter the main gate in River Run Village. 
Continue on the path through the village that will wind down to the bottom of the Gondola. You will pass Starbucks on your right and go over one bridge. The Mountain Services Center is the second building on the right once you have crossed the bridge, just past the ticket office.

Visit the Keystone Resort website for more details or call 970-496-4FUN to make your Tubing reservation.

Season ski passes are on sale now! With so many resorts to choose from and easy access to and from Summit County, you can’t go wrong. We’ve included pass pricing from Breckenridge, Keystone, ABasin, Vail, Beaver Creek, Copper Mountain, Winter Park, Steamboat and Loveland.

2009-2010 Opening Days 

ABasin Ski Resort, Snow Dependent, in 2008 opened October 13

Loveland Ski Resort, Snow Dependent, in 2008 opened October 13

Keystone Ski Resort, November 6, 2009

Copper Mountain Ski Resort, November 6, 2009

Breckenridge Ski Resort, November 12, 2009

Winter Park Ski Resort, November 18, 2009

Steamboat Ski Resort, November 25, 2009

Vail Ski Resort, November 20, 2009

Beaver Creek, November 25, 2009

Breckenridge, Keystone, ABasin, Vail, Beaver Creek Season Passes

Summit Pass, $399 (Adult) $309 (Teen) $199 (Child) – Breckenridge, Keystone, ABasin. Unlimited, no restrictions.

Colorado Pass,  $439 (Adult) $329 (Teen) $209 (Child) – Breckenridge, Keystone, ABasin – unlimited. +10 days at Vail and Beaver Creek with restrictions.

Epic Pass, $599 (Adult) $299 (Child) – Breckenridge, Keystone, ABasin, Vail, Beaver Creek & Heavenly (Lake Tahoe). Unlimited, no restrictions.

Keystone/ABasin 4-Pack, $139 – 4 days at Keystone and ABasin with restrictions.

Visit coloradopass.com for details on buying or renewing passes for the 2009-2010 season. Pricing subject to change.

ABasin Season Passes

Bonus Pass, $349 (Adult) $259 (Child) – Abasin unlimited, no restrictions. +4 days at Breckenridge or Keystone +1 day at Vail or Beaver Creek

Visit arapahoebasin.com for details on buying or renewing passes for the 2009-2010 season. Pricing subject to change.

Copper, Winter Park, Steamboat Season Passes

Rocky Mountain Super Pass Plus, $439 (Adult) $329 (Teen) $229 (Child) – Copper, Winter Park – unlimited. +6 days at Steamboat with no restrictions.

Rocky Mountain Super Pass, $399 (Adult) $309 (Teen) $209 (Child) – Copper, Winter Park. Unlimited, no restrictions.

Copper Mountain Season Pass, $359 (Adult) – Copper unlimited, no restrictions.

Rocky Mountain Ultimate Pass, $879 (Adult) – Copper, Winter Park & Steamboat. Unlimited, no restrictions.

Copper 4 Pass, $119 – 4 days at Copper.

Visit coppercolorado.com for details on buying or renewing passes for the 2009-2010 season. Pricing subject to change.

Loveland Season Passes

Season Pass, $349 (Adult) $269 (Teen) $149 (Child) – Loveland unlimited, no restrictions +3 days at Monarch Mountain

4Pak, $119 – 4 days at Loveland with no restrictions.

Visit skiloveland.com for details on buying or renewing passes for the 2009-2010 season. Pricing subject to change.

You won't want to miss an opportunity to view "Colorado Gold" in Summit County. There's no better way to experience it than enjoying an easy-to-moderate family mountain bike ride to Bakers Tank at one of the best fall foliage viewing places, Boreas Pass Road in Breckenridge. To get there, from Main Street take a left at the last light at the south end of town. Follow the road until you come to a parking area and dirt road, you can start your ride here. Take the road up to an old water tank on the left hand side. If you wish to continue to Bakers Tank, take the dirt road to the left of the tank and follow it to a single track to the left. You will come to a junction in the road, veer left to follow the loop back toward where you parked. This is the perfect ride for a family or novice rider with wide open roads, rolling hills and incredible views.

Without computers or instruments to forecast weather long-term, Farmers’ Almanac predictions are based solely on a top-secret mathematical and astronomical formula that dates back to the early 1800s, when the first issue was published.

This formula is still relied upon today with 2010 predictions just released. Will it be a cold Winter? The answer is yes – throughout most of the country. Actually, the question isn’t really whether it will be cold this Winter, but instead just how cold it will be?

According to the predictions, Old Man Winter has plans for a very cold and snowy Colorado and the central part of the country. Central and Southern Plains are expected to receive above-average precipitation and 75 percent of the U.S. will experience below-average temperatures. Significant snowstorms are in the forecast for every zone. Cold days and nights and snow are in the long-term Winter forecast for Colorado.

Backyard bear spottings, changing  leaves and crisp, cool mornings in the mountains give the feeling of Fall earlier than normal this year. These signs combined with more observations throughout the country, including spiders spinning very large webs, geese migration, squirrels storing their acorns instead of eating them and thick bark on trees are Mother Nature’s signs of a cold winter ahead according to “old wives’ tales” of Weather Folklore.

Well before science instruments and the modern day weatherman, generations relied on previous generations’ Weather Folklore to relate patterns in nature to weather predictions. They viewed the relationship of nature and weather as that of cause-and-effect. According to these observations, it will be a very cold winter.

If these long-time, trusted sources are predicting the upcoming winter accurately, it could be the epic winter we’re waiting for. We couldn’t be in a better place for cold and snow – time to wax those skis and we’ll see you on the mountain.

Pick up a copy of the 2010 Farmers’ Almanac and view more information on Winter Weather predictions here: www.farmersalmanac.com

Breckenridge Associates Real Estate is leading the charge through number of transactions and dollar volume sales in 2009. Data is based on real estate transactions January 1 - June 30, 2009.

BRECKENRIDGE

BARE is #1 in Breckenridge $ volume sales - 20% of market share.

BARE is #1 in Breckenridge transactions. For properties $1+ million, BARE has represented 26% of all transactions*. In all residential transactions, BARE represents 19% of all transactions*.

* Based on both listing and selling side transactions.

ALL AREAS

BARE is #1 in Summit and Park County $ volume sales – 13% of market share

BARE is #1 in Summit and Park County transactions. For properties $1+ million, BARE has represented 20% of all transactions*. In all residential transactions, BARE represents 10% of all transactions*.

* Based on both listing and selling side transactions.

Series dates & times:

5:30pm - Friday, June 26

5:30pm - Friday, July 10

5:30pm - Friday, July 17

5:30pm - Friday, July 31

We hope to see you there and tell your friends!

Over the past 10 years, real estate prices have escalated rapidly in Breckenridge and Summit County and buyers and sellers have felt lucky to be part of the ride. Returns on real estate have been at an all time high. We've often have heard people say, "I'm kicking myself for not buying 10 years ago."

Ten years ago the average sales price for housing was $250,000 in Summit County and doubled by the end of 2008 to an average price of $500,000. The average return in Breckenridge for the same period was even higher. Buyers "got in" at the right time and produced great returns on their investments. When it came time to sell, few concessions were made. However, for buyers this meant there were few "deals" to be had. It was a seller’s market. There was limited supply of available housing and buyers often settled on a less desirable location with fewer amenities just to “get in” to the local market. They hoped for the same returns their neighbors were seeing.

Today, the tables have turned and we are experiencing a “strong buyer’s market”. This means that the inventory of condos, homes, townhomes and vacant land is higher than it was. In some cases the number of units available have doubled from 2007. An abundance of sellers means they must now compete (i.e. dropping their asking prices) to get the attention of bona-fide buyers. Buyers with approved financing are able to negotiate a price often times much lower than what the seller is asking, because of the competition. Another phenomenon we are witnessing is that a few of the “keeper” properties – those we thought we would never see on the market, or have never been offered before – are now available (i.e. right by the river, top floor, southwest corner unit, new custom homes by stretched builders below construction cost). Now is the time to buy.

Just as is true in the Stock Market, “timing” the market has never proved fruitful. If you’re waiting for prices to decline further, you may miss out on a shot at a great fixed rate loan. Interest rates are ridiculously low and will almost certainly increase soon. Don’t miss your chance to lock in a fixed rate loan in the 5% range. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Today’s buyers will undoubtedly look back 10 years from now and say “Wow, glad I bought back in 2009 when…”

For the month of February, BARE was awarded "Business of the Month" by the Breckenridge Resort Chamber for our involvement creating and producing the 1st Annual Breck Snowflake Challenge in December and participation in the 19th International Snowsculpting Championships (ISSC) late January.

With founding members of the ISSC as BARE Partners, the snow sculpting art form is held close to our hearts at BARE. After many years growing the ISSC into what it is today, we decided there was room for a smaller scale event on Main Street where locals tried their hand at original creations, competing to win great prizes. Thus, the Breck Snowflake Challenge was born as a tribute to the original grass roots snow sculpting event, which took place during Ullr Fest a few decades ago. It was the perfect kick of to the holidays in the Colorado high country and the response from the local businesses, community and visitors was outstanding.

We at BARE have been long time supporters of local performing arts and truly value the importance of their presence in our community. Thank you to the Breckenridge Resort Chamber for naming BARE February "Business of the Month."

by Larry Olmsted, Special for USA TODAY:

When investing in Colorado's ski country real estate, many buyers forgo the glamour and exclusivity of chic resorts like Vail, Aspen and Telluride for the much lower prices, deep snowfalls and skiing in Summit County.

"About 70% of all residential property in the county is owned by second-home owners — and that's been going up," says a Dillon, Colorado Realtor.

The county's four major ski resorts — Breckenridge, Copper Mountain, Keystone and Arapahoe Basin — are nothing to sneeze at. Breckenridge attracts more skiers and snowboarders annually than any other mountain, and Keystone is one of the largest in Colorado. All are closer to Denver, about 90 minutes, than their chief competitors.

Read the full article at http://www.usatoday.com/travel/destinations/secondhomes/2009-02-12-summit-county-colorado_N.htm

Breckenridge is America’s favorite resort for a reason: it’s for everyone. The bombers, the boarders, the tuckers and the huckers – and you, especially you.

When I was a kid—a Kneissel-skis, jeans-tucked-in-boots New Mexican kid bumping around the greens of Sandia, Santa Fe and Pajarito—my older brother took a Big Boys’ Trip to Breckenridge. When he returned a week later, the Breck pin another shiny feather in his ski cap, my brother would only moan, “It hit 70 below with the wind chill!” But his goggle-tan told a different story: The bugger had been out all day, every day, gnashing through squalls of new snow.

Read the full article at http://www.skinet.com/travel/2009-01/peoples-choice-breckenridge-co

 And so it began, day one of the International Snow Sculpting Championship in Breckenridge, Colorado.  Our own Carvin' Marvin and the Snowflakes, better known as our Breckenrige Associates partners, Rob Neyland, team captian and Ron Shelton and Tom Day begin the task of transforming a 26 ton block of snow into a work of art, over the next 5 days.

The Breckenridge Associates Real Estate Team is ready to bring their concept to life.

In Breckenridge each year, blank canvases of snow become works of art. From a whimsical bouquet of enormous flowers, to thought provoking abstract shapes, sculptors form these masterpieces before thousands of spectators over the course of five days in the heart of our victorian town. In its 19th year, artists from all over the world will come together to present intricate, awe-inspiring snow sculptures. 12-foot-tall blocks of snow into pieces of art using only their creativity, inspiration, own two hands and permitted hand tools. 

    Tom Day surveying the block prior to making that first important cut.

    The cut is complete.  Ron, Rob and Tom are making their next move.

Breckenridge Associates leads the charge with the highest Summit County sale in history.