<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" ?>
<rss version="2.0" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom">
    <channel>
        <atom:link href="https://www.militaryhomesearch.com/blog/real-estate-news/rss/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
        <title>MilitaryHomeSearch.com Blog</title>
        <link>https://www.militaryhomesearch.com/blog/real-estate-news/</link>
        <description></description>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.militaryhomesearch.com/blog/introducing-our-real-estate-team.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.militaryhomesearch.com/blog/introducing-our-real-estate-team.html</link>
        <author>lauren@militaryhomesearch.com (Lauren Schneider)</author>
        <title>Introducing Our Real Estate Team</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Picking a REALTOR® is one of the biggest decisions you will make, as buying a home is one of the biggest investments you will make. I would like to introduce you to my team, who has sold over 2,000 homes over the past 8 years, and continually leads the Pikes Peak Region in home sales, innovative marketing approaches, and of course what we are most proud of: an army of happy clients


Lauren Schneider, REALTOR®


I have lived in Colorado Springs since 1997, and I honestly wouldn't live anywhere else. I grew up figure skating competitively at the Broadmoor World Arena, I am a proud Cheyenne Mountain High School alum, and an even prouder graduate of the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs. My husband, Grant, and I met in Colorado Springs and chose this beautiful town to raise our family. We have an 8 year old daughter, Brooke, a 6 year old son, Braeden, a 4 year old daughter, Brynn, and a 2 year old son, Breck. They are the absolute loves of our lives. After spending seven years in the corporate finance world, I made the transition to real estate in 2016. I had a strong desire to make a career change that would enable me to help other families, while having the ability to still be there for my family as well. Over the past eight years, I have become a top real estate agent in Colorado, helping buyers, sellers, and investors. As I look forward to my 8th year of real estate, I am never turning back







Erica Archambault, REALTOR®


I grew up an hour outside of Boston in a small town. For 17 years I was a competitive figure skater and was a member of Team USA for 7 years. After moving to Colorado Springs from Boston in 2003 to continue training, I realized this was the only place I would ever want to live. There is nothing like the clear blue skies and friendly atmosphere this city provides. I am now in my 7th year of real estate, and couldn't imagine doing anything else







Renee Young, REALTOR®


Welcome to Colorado As an active-duty family, I understand our military community and have firsthand experience with the challenges of PCSing. With 10 moves in 13 years, I know how hard it is. My hope is to ease that stress for you. You can count on me to work tirelessly on your behalf. I will help guide you every step of the way with advice and personalized assistance. My mission is to offer you unparalleled market knowledge and unwavering dedication as you embark on your home journey. Whether you're buying or selling, your goals are my goals. My husband, Josh, and I are blessed with three beautiful children. During our downtime, we fully embrace the Colorado lifestyle, enjoying activities such as camping, hiking, and exploring the natural beauty that this state has to offer. I hope to share with you everything Colorado has to offer







Charles Beaton, Jr., REALTOR®


After dedicating 12 years to the the United States Army, I discovered my calling within the real estate realm at Military Home Search. In 2013, I married my college sweetheart, Laura Leigh Beaton, and together we embarked on an active-duty journey, welcoming three wonderful boys into our lives: Vincent, Bruce, and Charles III &quot;Charlie&quot;. Above all else, my proudest achievement is my family. Relocating to Colorado Springs in November 2018 marked a turning point, and since then, I've never looked back. Now entering my 5th year in real estate, I've found my passion. Throughout my career, I've consistently reached milestones, attaining the Gold and Platinum level EXP Realty awards since 2021. Notably, I have been consistent in qualifying for the prestigious Pikes Peak Top Real Estate Agents since 2021 and continuing through to the present year as a top 10 Agent in Colorado Springs and the surrounding areas. I am entering my 4th year of real estate, and absolutely love it







Katlyn Gauthier, REALTOR®


I am originally from Lansing, Michigan and graduated from Central Michigan University, where I earned a BS in Sociology and Public Administration. After graduating, I moved to Raleigh, North Carolina, and spent 3 years working for the State of North Carolina in Courthouse Administration. While this provided me with the ability to connect with people everyday, I wanted a career path that I could take anywhere as a military spouse. I made the leap into real estate and haven't looked back I am now entering my 5th year in real estate, and can't believe how many amazing people I have met along the way







Cynthia Debski, REALTOR®


Hi, I’m Cynthia Debski. I graduated from Navarro College in Texas and have spent 10 years in business and sales. I have lived in Colorado Springs since 2018 and absolutely love it here. I grew up visiting Colorado regularly and fell in love. The quality of life that Colorado provides was a huge reason we couldn’t wait to be here and made the permanent move for our family. I have been married to my husband for 10 years and we have 4 beautiful children. We love everything outdoors from hiking, fishing, camping and traveling. Colorado has been the perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors. I am entering my third year of real estate and haven't looked back







Stephanie Bushnell, REALTOR®


I come from a strong Real Estate, Administrative, and Business background. I am a graduate with a Business Administration degree from Arizona State University W.P. Carey School of Business and is licensed in 3 states. Prior to joining the Military Home Search family, I was a sales agent in Arizona and California, and was the Area Sales Manager for a top rated home warranty company in Colorado. I love serving as the team's licensed assistant for two years running


Jessica Yates, REALTOR®


I started my working life as a hospice nurse that quickly stalled due to military moves and raising kids. That’s when I started to use my free time to give back to the military community. I also have a love for strength and fitness using my spare time to compete in powerlifting events. We used Military Home Search to purchase our first home upon moving to Colorado Springs. They far exceeded our expectations so we used them again to sell and then buy our forever home. It's truly and honor to be a part of this team as the Listing Manager







Want to learn more about our team? Connect with us here:


Sign up for a free home search account at: www.COSpringsHomeSearch.com or MilitaryHomeSearch.com. 


Email us at: Team@militaryhomesearch.com


Call/Text us at: 719-338-7294


Follow us on Facebook: @MIlitaryHomeSearch.com


Follow us on Instagram: @MilitaryHomeSearchTeam  
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 10 Jan 2024 13:45:00 -0700</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.militaryhomesearch.com/blog/chief-warrant-officer-four-and-realtor-tiger-yates-retires-from-the-army.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.militaryhomesearch.com/blog/chief-warrant-officer-four-and-realtor-tiger-yates-retires-from-the-army.html</link>
        <author>lauren@militaryhomesearch.com (Lauren Schneider)</author>
        <title>Chief Warrant Officer Four  and REALTOR, Tiger Yates, retires from the Army</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Realtor Tiger Yates retires from the Army after 22 year career


Today, we are thrilled to share that Realtor Kennamer &quot;Tiger&quot; Yates retired from his 22 year career in the Army. Tiger, and his wife Jessica, are three time clients of MilitaryHomeSearch.com, have referred multiple friends to our business, and they both currently hang their real estate licenses with us. Jessica has loyally served as our Listing Manager for the past 12 months, so you may have had the pleasure of meeting her for listing photos, or while dropping a sign and lockbox off at your home





Tiger also recently passed his Colorado Real Estate Exam, and can now help with all of your real estate buying/selling/investment goals in the state of Colorado, as well as around the country thru our www.MilPCS.com referral network. You can learn more about Tiger and the rest of our agents here: https://www.militaryhomesearch.com/about.php. To learn more about his decorated Military career, take a sneak peek here:





Congratulations, Tiger, Jessica, and family We are so proud to call you our teammates and friends 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 25 Oct 2023 12:47:00 -0600</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.militaryhomesearch.com/blog/early-predictions-for-the-colorado-springs-real-estate-market-in-2023.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.militaryhomesearch.com/blog/early-predictions-for-the-colorado-springs-real-estate-market-in-2023.html</link>
        <author>lauren@militaryhomesearch.com (Lauren Schneider)</author>
        <title>Early Predictions for The Colorado Springs Real Estate Market in 2023</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 







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 demand for many years to come.


More Buyers Than Homes


The pandemic caused a cool-down in the construction of new homes thanks to work restrictions and supply chain issues. Although building has picked up again, inventory is still low compared to the demand. As a buyer, this means you may have significant competition for homes. For sellers this could result in multiple offers and faster sales.


Higher Home Prices


Home values in Colorado Springs have consistently risen over the past few years. According to Zillow, the 2022 median home value for homes in Colorado Springs was $476,721, which was a 7.5 year-over-year increase. Experts predict that home values will continue to rise in 2023 to around another 7. If you’re thinking of selling your home, 2023 could be a good year to get a great price for your investment.


Demand For More Rural Homes


More people are moving out of urban centers than ever before, so we’re seeing a great deal of demand for homes in more rural areas. In Colorado Springs there are numerous rural communities just a short drive from the city where home sales are expected to rise. These include Falcon, Black Forest, and Peyton, all of which are prime areas for those looking for new construction homes and land for sale.


Rising Interest Rates


The Federal Reserve Board recently increased their rates, resulting in a significant increase in mortgage interest rates. This has affected purchasing power, so the beginning of the year may see fewer home sales than the same time period in 2022. However, interest rates are expected to decline in the second quarter of 2023, so this may result in previously hesitant buyers to enter the market.


While no one can definitively predict what will happen in the economy and market in any given time period, all the signs point to a strong year for the Colorado real estate market in 2023. Low inventory and high demand mean that the seller’s market will likely continue. While increased interest rates may cause a slow-down in home sales, home values are expected to remain stable or potentially increase.


Are you interested in buying or selling a home in Colorado Springs? Military Home Search specializes in military relocations and real estate in Colorado Springs and the surrounding areas. Contact us here or call 719-338-7294 to speak to one of our knowledgeable agents today



 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Mon, 19 Dec 2022 14:08:00 -0700</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.militaryhomesearch.com/blog/frequently-asked-questions-about-homeowners-associations.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.militaryhomesearch.com/blog/frequently-asked-questions-about-homeowners-associations.html</link>
        <author>lauren@militaryhomesearch.com (Lauren Schneider)</author>
        <title>Frequently Asked Questions About Homeowners Associations</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 





If you’re in the market for your very first home, chances are you’re likely to come across a myriad of terms and acronyms you’ve never heard before, such as an HOA. For those who are looking at new, master-planned communities or condominium units, then you’ll want to become more familiar with what an HOA is and what it could mean for your budget.


Here’s what you should know about an HOA community before buying a home in one.


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

What Is An HOA?


HOAs are organizations that manage certain aspects of how a neighborhood works. HOAs create and enforce rules, collect dues, and provide useful services. They can be run by private management companies, or concerned residents.


An HOA will maintain and improve the standards within a neighborhood for everyone who lives there.


HOAs must be doing something right, because they can be found almost everywhere - El Paso County alone has over 500 active HOAs And if you ask me, Colorado Springs Home Owner's Associations are some of the best.


In order to know if a neighborhood with an HOA is right for you, take some time to evaluate the benefits. Note that these benefits can be specific to some HOAs, but not others, and you should always make your evaluation with your own personal needs in mind.


What is an HOA Community?


HOA is short for homeowners association. When you purchase a home in a neighborhood with an HOA, you’re automatically a member of the organization, meaning you’ll be expected to pay their dues and abide by their rules and covenants. That being said, not all HOA’s are the same, and some are stricter than others. If you’re moving into an area with a swimming pool, playground, and walking trails, chances are it’ll have a homeowners association to help manage and maintain those facilities.


What Are the Benefits of An HOA?


The first benefit of an HOA is that they will work to keep your neighborhood looking good.


This doesn't just improve your day to day living experience, but it also helps to protect your property as an investment.


So HOAs are great for property buyers who are looking to build equity. With an HOA you can rest assured that your home will remain in a quality neighborhood for many years to come.


Most HOAs offer useful services.


From emergency plans to snow removal, HOAs can offer convenience and peace of mind. Many HOAs even have long-term plans in place to preserve the unique character of their area.


HOA's also protect you from inconsiderate neighbors, and they’ll back you up if you ever want to do something about that noisy dog. In this way, the procedures that HOAs have in place work to protect everyone from uncomfortable situations.


If you've ever had a &quot;bad neighbor&quot; then you know how valuable this can be.


HOAs are great for home owners who already take good care of their properties, and they're ideal for anyone who likes working on a team, with people who play by the rules, and towards a common goal.


What Are the Downsides of An HOA?


Perhaps the biggest drawback of HOAs for some home owners is the cost.


In the Colorado Springs area, HOA dues can range from as little as $10 per month, all the way up to $300 per month, or even more So make sure to check the fees associated with a potential HOA, and factor these into your budget.


The additional rules associated with living under an HOA can also rub some people the wrong way...


HOA rules and regulations can be very particular, right down to the height of your grass, so you might end up doing a lot of extra work on your property at the end of the day.


Alternatively, you might get frustrated if you find your HOA is not living up to its responsibilities. As mentioned before, every HOA is different, and some members are more engaged than others, so you may just find yourself having to mow that overgrown median yourself


How Much Are HOA Fees?


There is no one-size-fits-all pricing for homeowners associations. It typically depends on things like how many properties there are in the area, the types of facilities available, and so on. The average for HOA fees can range between $200 and $400 per month, but it varies from neighborhood to neighborhood. Another thing to keep in mind is that if there’s ever a large project and the association doesn’t have enough funds to cover the cost of it, the homeowners will have to bear the additional costs.


What Do HOA Fees Cover?


In most cases, your HOA dues go into a pot which the association will use to cover the cost of the following:




Insurance policies


Professional landscaping


Shared swimming pools, tennis courts, playgrounds


Clubhouses


Playgrounds


Sidewalks, walking trails


Community emergency fund




Why Do HOAs Have Such Strict Rules?


The rules are in place to uphold the great quality of life for everyone in the neighborhood. At first glace, covenants can sound pretty strict. Most include restrictions on pain colors, boats and trailers, fences, garbage can size, and clotheslines. They can also set limits on noise production and messy yards. The benefit here is that you’ll never move into a home to find out your next door neighbor runs a part-time automotive business out of his garage and revs motors at various hours throughout the day. Or have the neighbor two blocks down paint their home an obnoxious shade of green that stands out like a sore thumb.


The most important thing to keep in mind is that no two HOA’s are the same. More upscale neighborhoods will often have more expensive HOA dues, more rules, and more amenities.


How to Evaluate Your HOA


An HOA is made up of people, so whether an HOA works for you will depend greatly on the members.


To find out about any HOA, try sending them an email, make plans to meet with their president, sit in on a meeting or two. And most HOAs will have a website or facebook page, so feel free to snoop around.


And never forget that the State of Colorado gives you special protections as a home owner. HOAs answer to the Colorado Common Interest Ownership Act (CCIOA). If an HOA steps out of line, you can always submit complaints to the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies.


So, Is a Neighborhood With an HOA Right For You?


Well, a lot of that depends on your lifestyle and your outlook.


If you're the type who loves overturning the garden, or scheming about their next big house project, then an HOA might feel like an unnecessary hassle. But if you're more likely to see a neighborhood as a community, rather than just a collection of homes, then a Colorado Springs neighborhood with an HOA is probably right for you.


The important thing is to be aware of what you’re signing up for when you buy a home in that neighborhood. If an HOA doesn’t sound right for you (or on the contrary, if it does), let your agent know This can greatly narrow down your search and help you find the perfect home even faster.


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

 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Mon, 29 Apr 2019 12:01:00 -0600</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.militaryhomesearch.com/blog/lauren-schneider-wins-award-for-top-real-estate-agent-by-challenger-homes.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.militaryhomesearch.com/blog/lauren-schneider-wins-award-for-top-real-estate-agent-by-challenger-homes.html</link>
        <author>lauren@militaryhomesearch.com (Lauren Schneider)</author>
        <title>Lauren Schneider Wins Award For Top Real Estate Agent By Challenger Homes</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



One of the largest homebuilders in Colorado Springs has named Lauren Schneider, MilitaryHomeSearch.com’s founder and REALTOR, their Top Real Estate Agent of 2016. The award was presented to Lauren on Thursday, January 26 in recognition of her achievement for selling the most Challenger Homes that year. She sold a total of 10 homes in 4 different developments to active duty, reservists, and veterans. This is Lauren’s first award since becoming a Realtor and she looks forward to another year of working closely with Challenger Homes and helping even more families find a beautiful new home.


When it comes to helping her clients buy a new construction home, Lauren prides herself on always being there at every stage of the building process. From pre-construction meetings to the final walkthrough and random spot-checks to check in on the process, she’s always there to follow up on the progress of the home, communicate with the builder on your behalf, and ensure you’re totally satisfied with your purchase.


Here are a few things that she loves most about working with Challenger Homes.




Quality-built homes for an affordable price. 


Their unwavering commitment to client satisfaction. 


They work with the client's REALTOR throughout the building process. 




About Challenger Homes


As a local business, Challenger Homes is as homegrown as they come. Since starting the business in their founders' garage in 2000, they’ve grown to become one of the largest homebuilding firms in the city and have contributed new homes to some of the most up-and-coming neighborhoods in The Springs, including Ventana, Quail Brush Creek, The Ridge at Cumbre Vista, and The Trails at Forest Meadows.


They currently have 27 different floorplan models to choose from, including a mix of detached single-family homes, townhomes, and patio homes. Their distinctive blend of Contemporary style with brick highlights and Earthy hues nicely complement the natural landscape of The Springs and surrounding neighborhood.


Find out more about Challenger Homes or ask about how Lauren can help connect you to a beautiful new home in Colorado Springs. Send us a message or give us a call today at 719.338.7294 to learn more.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Mon, 30 Jan 2017 08:18:00 -0700</pubDate>
</item>
    </channel>
</rss>