All Blog Entries by Lauren Schneider

Found 318 blog entries published by Lauren Schneider.

Kitchen in a stylish starter home in Colorado SpringsIf you’re a first-time home buyer in Colorado Springs, a starter home may be exactly what you need. Starter homes are typically smaller, affordable homes that are perfect for those who are just entering the real estate market and working with a tight budget. They’re a great way to get your foot in the real estate market and build equity without a huge amount of risk.

Starter homes are also great options for military home buyers who may be new to the Colorado Springs real estate market. Perhaps you want to test out a particular area before you commit to a larger home or you’re concerned about a potential future PCS and having to sell quickly. Either way, a starter home can be a sound investment.

These are a few key things to consider when

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Wooden blocks and a wooden house representing the 2023 real estate market

The Colorado Springs real estate market is always shifting depending on what’s happening with the economy and local and global events. The past few years have been particularly dynamic for the market with housing prices soaring and homes in high demand. But will this seller’s market last? These are the expert’s predictions for the Colorado Springs real estate market in 2023.

Houses Will Still Be In High Demand

With so many military bases in and around Colorado Springs, not to mention beautiful parks, top-rated schools and exceptional urban amenities, it should come as no surprise that there is almost always consistent demand for real estate in Colorado Springs. There is every reason to believe that homes here will continue to be in high

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Dog on a patio at a dog-friendly retaurant

The holiday season in Colorado Springs is a magical time of the year. Snow dusts the top of the mountains, colorful lights and decorations are on display, and there are tons of festive events going on around town for all ages.  

From Christmas themed amusement parks to captivating shows and light displays, there’s something for everyone over the holidays. If you’re looking for fun activities to do this December, these are the top holiday events happening in Colorado Springs.

Santa Express Train

Board the Santa Express Train and embark on a magical journey through the Royal Gorge to the North Pole. Guests can sip on cocoa and snack on cocoa as the train makes its way through the canyon to meet St. Nick himself. Once Santa boards the train,

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Dog on a patio at a dog-friendly retaurant

 

Looking for a place in Colorado Springs where you can bring your dog along with you for a bite to eat or a coffee break? There are plenty of restaurants and bars around town that welcome pet owners and their furry friends. These dog-friendly restaurants in Colorado Springs are great spots to take a break from your walk and meet up with other pups and their humans.

Pub Dog Colorado

Designed specifically with dogs in mind, Pub Dog Colorado is the only spot in town where you can dine indoors with your dog. Outdoors there is a 3,000 square foot patio where you can let your dog run and play and indoors there is a counter and bar where you can order cocktails, beers and tasty bites like burgers, tacos and salad.. All breeds of dog are allowed

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Military benefits package with American flag

The state of Colorado offers numerous benefits for Military Service members, veterans and families of veterans and Service members. These include VA loans, property tax exemption, employment benefits, tuition assistance, family relief funds, grants and recreation benefits. 

If you are an active or retired Service member, a veteran or a family member of a Service member, you may be eligible for some of these benefits. Eligibility depends on a number of factors including career status, residency status, military branch, and disability status. 

VA Loans

A VA Loan is a special mortgage loan for active Service members, veterans and their surviving spouses. It is offered through a US Department of Veterans Affairs program. The VA Loan allows

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Pumpkins for Halloween in Colorado Springs

Halloween is here, which means it’s that time of year again to pick out your best costume and get ready for some fun and frightening festivities. There are tons of spooky events taking place in Colorado Springs and the surrounding communities, from trick-or-treating for the little ones to horrifying haunted houses for the grown-ups. If you’re looking for something fun to do this year, these are the top Halloween events happening in Colorado Springs.

Boo at the Zoo

Get wild this Halloween at Boo at the Zoo, a unique Halloween experience at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. Little ones can dress up in their costumes and visit spooky treat stations around the zoo, explore the haunted house, and see select animal exhibits. There will also be a spooky

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Military member holding a replica of a home

Buying a home in Colorado Springs while you’re deployed in a different country may seem risky, but it’s actually very common for members of the military. In fact, it’s now easier than ever to buy a home long distance thanks to virtual showings, online application processes, and builder incentives for military members. If you’re thinking about buying a home while on duty overseas, these are some tips to make the process go smoother.

For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed mortgage or home loan professional before proceeding with any real estate transaction.

Work Out Your Budget

Before you begin searching for a home, you need to know how much you can afford. Do a thorough review of your financial situation including

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Soldiers walking in front of the Air Force Academy Chapel in Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs has a rich history that spans centuries. Once the homeland of the Ute, Cheyenne and Arapaho people, the territory saw a huge influx of people during the gold rush in the 1800s. However it was World War II that really changed the face of Colorado Springs and gave it its rich military legacy that still thrives today.

The Birth of Colorado Springs as a Military Community

Immediately prior to World War II, the Colorado Springs economy was in decline. The city was once known for its gold mining, but the federal price cap on gold hampered mining efforts. Colorado Springs was also touted as a spa town, but the increasing availability of penicillin negated the need for retreats. In addition, the Great Depression nearly put an end to

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Couple in front of renovated kitchen

If you’re planning on selling your home in Colorado Springs, a few renovations will go a long way to making your home more attractive to potential buyers. But what renovations will add the most value to your home? These upgrades will give you the most bang for your buck and add instant value to your home.


Kitchen Updates

The kitchen is the heart of the home, so you want to make sure that the space is inviting and fully functional. You don’t have to do a complete remodel, but a few upgrades will make the space more attractive to home buyers. Updates could include replacing your old appliances with newer energy-efficient models, redoing the cabinets and countertops, and adding a modern backsplash. You might also want to consider adding new

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Man giving a five-star rating on an app for a Smartphone

Whether you’re planning a move to Colorado Springs, just arrived in the city or are a long-term resident, there are a number of apps that can help enhance your day-to-day life in the city. 

You can find apps to enhance nearly every aspect of your life, from dining out to doggie daycare, ideas for adrenaline pumping outdoor adventures and even city maintenance.

Without further ado, these are the best apps for Colorado Springs that are available on iPhone, Android and other smartphone and device platforms. Even better, they’re all free!

GoCOS!

The city of Colorado Springs is committed to keeping the city clean, safe and liveable for all residents, so they created their own app to help residents connect with the city. The GoCOS! app allows

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