You may have heard that the Federal Reserve Board (FED) is meeting next week – so what does that mean? Think of the Fed lowering interest rates like a store putting items on sale. When prices drop, people are more likely to buy things. Similarly, when the Fed reduces interest rates, borrowing money becomes less expensive. This encourages people to take out loans for homes, cars, or businesses, and helps boost the economy by making it easier and more appealing to spend and invest. It’s like making the cost of borrowing money more affordable, which gets things moving!
New Listings August 2024
Discover an exceptional, meticulously designed development property in beautiful Conifer, Colorado. 11000 Kitty Drive is well-located just off County Highway 73 and State Highway 285, offering exceptional development opportunities. The property is adjacent to a retail/office commercial center. Three parcels span 6.07 acres and feature excellent identity and visibility, making it an ideal choice for high-exposure businesses. All parcels are zoned planned development, allowing for warehouse or indoor storage use, greenhouses, garden centers, bulk material sales, assembling, light manufacturing, and educational establishments, including pre-school, daycare, elementary, and secondary, with outdoor storage permitted under particular conditions. Positioned near the intersection of I-70 and 6th Avenue, these properties provide exceptional access to the Denver metro area and western markets, ensuring strategic connectivity for various business needs. Call (720) 201-1332 to schedule a tour or click here for more information.
John Putt | MLS# 8577995
Welcome to 1753 Vista Point Lane, nestled in the serene community of Severance Shores. This stunning ranch-style home spans 3,802 square feet and features five bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms. The open floor plan is highlighted by a modern kitchen equipped with stainless steel appliances, a gas top stove, granite countertops, and knotty alder cabinets, complemented by wood floors throughout the main level. The expansive master bedroom includes a luxurious five-piece bathroom and a walk-in closet. Additionally, the main floor boasts a convenient laundry room and an office. The walkout basement provides a versatile space for entertainment, complete with a wet bar, wine refrigerators, luxury plank flooring, and ample storage. Outside, enjoy a spacious fenced yard, a covered porch, and a patio, all surrounded by a greenbelt with breathtaking views of the mountains and a nearby lake. This property is truly exceptional and worth seeing. Call (970) 590-4841 today to schedule your private showing or click here for more information.
Suzanne Ekeler | MLS# 1015608
Discover your future home! 823 Collyer Street is a charming home located close to Downtown, parks, and tennis courts. Perfect for families and professionals alike, this property boasts newly refinished floors and a recently remodeled kitchen, roof, windows, and furnace. An optional room downstairs offers flexibility as an office or gym. Enjoy the established and relaxing backyard featuring a hot tub, pond, and dog run/garden. The oversized 2-car garage includes a heated and air-conditioned back shop with a unique hinged wall opening to the garage. With all new exterior paint and a heated front porch, this home is move-in ready and waiting for you to make it your own. Call (970) 310-6999 to schedule a private tour or click here for more information.
Alexis Foster | MLS# 1015979
Welcome to 804 1st St in Eaton, where you’ll find a charming ranch-style townhome offering a blend of comfort and convenience. This delightful residence features three bedrooms and three bathrooms, with the added convenience of main floor laundry. The kitchen boasts Corian countertops and sink, complemented by an eat-in dining area. The kitchen and dining room are finished with tile flooring, while the laundry and bathrooms have new luxury vinyl planks. Enjoy the finished basement for additional living space. The home also includes a two-car attached garage, central air conditioning, and a partially fenced patio off the kitchen. Situated within walking distance of schools, parks, and town amenities, this property is ideally located. Contact me today at (970) 590-4841 to schedule your private showing or click here for more information.
Suzanne Ekeler | MLS# 1015991
2308 Copper Mill Lane is a beautiful ranch home in the desired Kechter Crossing Community perfect for entertaining. The big Kitchen with a large island and granite countertops opens up to the expansive living room. Enjoy evenings and morning coffee on the large concrete patio big enough for entertaining and a hot tub. The huge unfinished basement is a blank slate to add 2 more beds, a bathroom and a large rec room. This home is in nearly new condition including brand new carpet, brand new microwave, new exterior paint and roof in 2019. Call (970) 420-4498 to schedule a private tour or click here for more information.
Lindsey Crisanti | MLS# 1015597
Discover an exceptional, meticulously designed development property at 11040 Kitty Drive in beautiful Conifer, Colorado. It is well-located just off County Highway 73 and State Highway 285, offering exceptional development opportunities. The property is adjacent to a retail/office commercial center. This lot is .52 acres and feature excellent identity and visibility, making it an ideal choice for high-exposure businesses. All parcels are zoned planned development, allowing for warehouse or indoor storage use, greenhouses, garden centers, bulk material sales, assembling, light manufacturing, and educational establishments, including pre-school, daycare, elementary, and secondary, with outdoor storage permitted under particular conditions. Positioned near the intersection of I-70 and 6th Avenue, these properties provide exceptional access to the Denver metro area and western markets, ensuring strategic connectivity for various business needs.
John Putt | MLS# 8858351
***This property was not directly impacted by the Alexander Mountain Fire*** Build your dream home at 1780 Palisade Mountain Drive! This property has been equipped with a well, pumphouse, and electricity brought onto the property with meter. Stay in the micro cabin while building your new home, or just enjoy some camping off the ground with the tent platform. Above the pumphouse is an observatory deck perfect to take in all of the wonderful surroundings and wildlife. Raise chickens or turkeys in the chicken coop, grow fruits and vegetables in the greenhouse, or pick fresh cherries from the many cherry bushes around the property. Countless opportunities abound with this property! Call (970) 690-5707 to schedule a private tour or click here for more information.
Jared Foster | MLS# 1016521
Come and see this wonderful home in the Sunflower with an ideal location across the street from the community clubhouse. 846 Pleasure Drive is ready for you to move in with new paint and flooring throughout! The home features one level with 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and a study/den. The large kitchen has lots of natural light and a breakfast bar with seating. The primary bedroom with attached bathroom features a double sink vanity with his/her closets. An additional bedroom provides space for guests and the conveniently placed study/den gives you that extra room you need for a home office or craft room. The open floorplan is ideal to host a gathering with friends and family, with both a living room and a dining area. The backyard is very low maintenance and you won’t even have to shovel in the winter as this is taken care of for you! You are directly across from the clubhouse where you can enjoy activities with friends and attend community gatherings. There are also pickleball courts, a game room, a library, pool table and an exercise room. This is the place to call home! Call (970) 646-3035 to schedule a private tour or click here for more information.
Aaron Pearson | MLS# 1016560
Welcome home to 476 Wind River Drive! This charming 5 bed, 3 bathroom home is located right in the heart of Windsor. The location could not be more convenient with easy access to Hwy 34, I-25, shops, and restaurants. The low maintenance back yard provides free time on the weekends, while the finished basement is perfect for entertaining with a spacious open-concept and wet bar. Fresh exterior paint was completed in 2023, adding to the curb appeal. You will find the new Hollister Lake Elementary just blocks away, along with community parks and walking paths. See this one while you can! Call (970) 573-2620 to schedule a private tour or click here for more information.
Kelsey Vandemark | MLS# 1016500
Welcome to 5302 Cloud Dance Drive, a luxurious 5-bedroom, 4-bathroom home that offers an open floor plan, perfect for modern living and entertaining. Spanning 3610 square feet, this home features upgraded LVP flooring throughout the main living areas and a gourmet kitchen equipped with high-end cabinetry that combines style and functionality. The main floor master bedroom is a true retreat, complete with a spacious walk-in closet that provides ample storage and organization. Upstairs, you’ll enjoy breathtaking mountain views from multiple rooms, adding to the serene and picturesque atmosphere of the home. The 90% finished basement is an entertainer’s delight, featuring a wet bar ideal for hosting gatherings. Whether you’re planning a movie night, game day, or a casual get-together, this space offers endless possibilities. Outside, the property continues to impress with a fire pit for cozy evenings, a covered patio for year-round outdoor dining or relaxation, and a thriving vegetable garden where you can grow your own fresh produce. The attached two-car garage provides ample space for vehicles and additional storage. For those who love the outdoors, the home is conveniently located near scenic hiking/walking trails, offering easy access to nature right from your doorstep. Call (970) 232-4844 to schedule a private tour or click here for more information.
Phil Cooper | MLS# 1016595
Enjoy living in Maintenance Free beautiful Summer Park! 6914 W 3rd Street #51 is a rare Vail, ranch style, end-unit! This very well cared for, open floor plan, home shows nicely with 2 large bedrooms. The finishes feature upgraded cabinets, wood flooring and quartz countertops in the Kitchen and Primary Bathroom. The primary bathroom has a generous quartz countertop with 2 sinks and tiled walls in the shower. A finished stairway leads to the large unfinished basement providing an additional 1370 SF including a full bath rough in and 2 egress windows for future finished living possibilities if desired. Outdoor living space includes a large covered front patio wrapping around with an uncovered side patio with access from front door and sliding glass door, providing nice light into the home. Summer Park has a resort style Clubhouse with Private Pool and Hot Tub. The Clubhouse has impressive soaring ceilings, beautiful woodwork, fireplace and community kitchen and also houses the nicely equipped Fitness Center. Call (970) 980-8705 to schedule a private tour or click here for more information.
Pete Jordan | MLS# 1016581
Ben Barnhart | MLS# 1016526
Imagine coming home to this beautiful 2 story home in Ault, where every detail feels just right. 625 Apex Trail is only 2 years old & has all the modern comforts with a touch of warmth and charm. Picture yourself unwinding in front of the cozy gas fireplace, the perfect spot to relax after a day of taking in those breathtaking mountain views right from your backyard. With upgraded lighting that sets the perfect mood and elegant quartz countertops throughout, every corner of this 3-bedroom home feels special. The oversized 2-car garage offers plenty of room for your vehicles and extra storage. Don’t forget this home has an unfinished basement, offering plenty of room to customize and expand in the future. And with no neighbors behind, just the peaceful expanse of a sod farm, you get an extra sense of space and tranquility. It’s not just a house; it’s a place where you’ll love to live. Call 970) 401-0123 to schedule a private tour or click here for more information.
Rondi duPont | MLS# 1016727
Mountain getaway!! 157 Ponderosa Drive is just 35 minutes from Boulder. This beautiful home nestled above the Town of Nederland is known as the Copper Roof Home because you can see the copper roof from the middle of town. This is an outdoor enthusiasts dream. Enjoy skiing at Eldora Ski Resort 10 minutes away by car and hiking and biking abound. The main level has 2 Primary suites including, 5 piece bath and a walk-in closet in each room. The large vaulted ceiling in the open kitchen, dining and family room is perfect for entertaining. Hang out on the deck and enjoy the views of the Continental Divide and the Town Of Nederland. The lower level offers a 3rd bedroom, full bathroom and walk in closet. There is a detached craft shop in the back of the property for a craft enthusiast or it could be made into an office. The 4 car tandem garage is perfect for extra storage and being able to park out of the snow in the winter months. Enjoy the massive outdoor living space with a built in wood fire pit. The back hillside is terraced for garden enthusiasts. There is a pre-wire from a previous hot tub already installed. New water heater and boiler Fall 2023. This home has been pre-inspected. Call (970) 420-4498 to schedule a private tour or click here for more information.
Lindsey Crisanti | MLS# 1016562
Best Time to be a Buyer in 10 Years
As we move into the fall, the real estate market is providing a rare opportunity for buyers who have been waiting on the sidelines for years. Inventory levels are higher than they’ve been in a decade, and sellers are increasingly open to negotiations, making repairs, offering concessions, and even accepting contingent offers to close deals. This presents an exceptional chance for buyers to leverage their negotiating power before potential rate drops lead to increased competition in the marketplace.
Reasons for Celebrating Labor Day
We celebrate Labor Day, the federal holiday that occurs on the first Monday in September, to honor the contributions of American workers and the labor movement, which played a crucial role in securing fair working conditions, better wages, and reasonable hours for employees across various industries. The holiday recognizes the importance of the labor force in building the nation’s economy and improving the quality of life for workers.
Reasons for Celebrating Labor Day:
- Recognition of Workers’ Contribution: Labor Day is a tribute to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It acknowledges the role of labor in building the nation’s strength, prosperity, and well-being.
- Commemoration of the Labor Movement: The holiday celebrates the labor movement’s historical efforts to improve working conditions, such as the fight for the 8-hour workday, the establishment of weekends, and the implementation of safety regulations. These achievements were hard-won through protests, strikes, and negotiations.
- Public Awareness: By dedicating a day to labor, the holiday raises public awareness of the social and economic issues faced by workers. It encourages continued efforts to improve labor laws and protect the rights of employees.
- End of Summer: Labor Day also marks the unofficial end of summer in the United States. It is often associated with the last long weekend of the summer season, prompting various outdoor activities, barbecues, and parades.
- Cultural Significance: In addition to its historical and social importance, Labor Day has become a time for family gatherings, community events, and the start of the school year in many regions.
- Symbolism: The holiday symbolizes the labor movement’s success in securing workers’ rights, including the 8-hour workday, weekends, and protections against unfair labor practices.
Overall, Labor Day is both a celebration of workers and a reminder of the ongoing efforts to improve labor conditions in the U.S. and recognition of the contributions of all workers to the nation’s well-being.
National Peach Pie Day
National Peach Pie Day is observed annually on August 24 to celebrate this mouth-watering dessert during the heart of the Peach harvest season. Don’t forget the à la mode!
#PeachPieDay
Generally speaking, there are two types of peaches – freestone and clingstone. The difference is in the way the flesh comes away from the pit in the middle of the peach. When the meat comes away freely from the stone, the peach is a freestone peach; if the flesh clings to it, it’s a clingstone.
While Georgia may be the first state to come to mind when we think of peaches, California actually leads the nation in production. In the United States, 20 states produce peaches commercially. Besides California and Georgia, the other two top producers are South Carolina and New Jersey. Pennsylvania and Washington grow a lot of peaches, too.
What makes Colorado’s Palisade Peaches so special?
- Ideal Growing Conditions and Rich Soil: Palisade is situated in the fertile Grand Valley, where the combination of high elevation, warm days, and cool nights creates an ideal microclimate for growing peaches. This unique environment allows the peaches to ripen slowly, developing a deep, sweet flavor. The area has rich, well-drained soils, which contribute to the growth of healthy peach trees that produce juicy, flavorful fruit.
- Handpicked and Tree-Ripened: Palisade peaches are typically handpicked at the peak of ripeness, which ensures they are full of flavor. Unlike many commercial peaches that are picked early to withstand shipping, Palisade peaches are allowed to ripen on the tree, giving them a superior taste and texture.
- Variety and Size: The peaches from Palisade are often larger and more flavorful than those grown in other regions. The growers in the area take pride in producing a variety of peach types, each with its own unique taste profile, which adds to their appeal.
25 Years of Wacky + Weird
That’s how New Belgium Brewing Company describes its annual Tour de Fat. This massive costumed bike parade is happening on Saturday, August 24th. Always a lively, fun atmosphere, thousands of cyclists take to the streets in a mix of bikes and costumes. There is also a spirit of giving tied to the event- this is a celebration with a cause. Local non-profits benefit from a portion of the beer sales. This year’s featured non-profits include Bike Fort Collins, Overland Mountain Bike Association, Fort Collins Bike Co-op and Send Town Bike Club.
The bike parade will start at 9:30am at City Park and loops Mountain Avenue until 11:30am. The party continues at New Belgium which will open at 11:00am. Expect a variety of music (Shady Oaks and PhatJazz) entertainment, contests and games. A variety of food trucks will offer food for purchase.
Another highlight is the giveaway of a limited edition New Belgium Cruiser Bike. You can enter to win here.
While Fort Collins is the birthplace of Tour de Fat, the event has expanded to Denver, San Diego, and Minneapolis, bringing its unique blend of bikes, beer, and fun to a wider audience.
What’s With All The Traffic?
Noticed the roads getting busier lately? Blame it on the back-to-school season! As students of all ages return to classrooms, traffic patterns take a hit, and here’s why:
1. School Drop-Offs: Parents and buses are flooding the streets during peak hours, causing bottlenecks around schools.
2. More Pedestrians: With students walking or biking to school, drivers need to be extra cautious in school zones.
3. Shifted Schedules: Many parents tweak their work hours for school runs, adding to the morning and afternoon traffic crunch.
When college students return to campus, traffic dynamics in college towns and cities often undergo noticeable changes:
1. Increased Vehicle Volume
a) Student Cars: Many students bring their own cars to campus, leading to more vehicles on the road, especially around campus areas and popular student housing complexes.
b) Parents: The start of the semester sees a surge in vehicles as parents help move students into dorms, contributing to temporary congestion.
2. More Pedestrians and Cyclists: Walking and Biking: College students often walk or bike to campus, increasing pedestrian and cyclist traffic. This demands extra caution from drivers, especially in and around campus areas.
3. Changes in Parking Demand: Parking Challenges: The return of students often leads to a scramble for parking spaces, both on campus and in surrounding neighborhoods, which can cause frustration and further slow traffic.
4. Increased Activity in College Towns: Busy Local Roads: With students back, college towns see more activity in local shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, leading to busier streets and intersections.
Tips for Navigating the Change:
Plan for Delays: Expect longer travel times, especially during peak hours.
Use Alternative Routes: Avoid campus areas during busy times if possible.
Be Alert: Watch for increased pedestrian and cyclist activity, especially near college campuses
With these back-to-school dates in mind, you can expect traffic to increase in waves throughout August:
August 12th: Greeley schools start first, so expect traffic to pick up around that area as parents and buses hit the road.
August 15th: PSD, Thompson, and CSU (with move-ins) will see a significant surge, particularly around Fort Collins and Loveland. CSU move-ins will add extra congestion around the campus.
August 16th: University of Northern Colorado’s move ins start and continue until August 21st.
August 19th: As CSU classes begin, the area will be particularly busy, with more students driving to campus and increased pedestrian and bicycle activity.
August 26th: Windsor schools start later, so traffic will spike around this date in that region. Classes begin at UNC.
So, the next time you’re stuck in gridlock, remember: it’s just the back-to-school hustle making its annual return and we are lucky to live in beautiful Northern Colorado.
Olympic Gold
It’s always great when the Olympics games come around!
Of the 592 athletes that are representing the United States in the Paris Olympics, 26 of them are from Colorado. This put Colorado tied for the 6th largest contingent from any one state. These athletes are competing in multiple events ranging from discus to sport climbing.
Hopefully, you get a chance to cheer them on and hope they can bring some of the Olympic gold back to the Centennial state.
New Listings July 2024
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION! Instant equity with 2 appraisals from late 2023 over list price and NO Metro Tax! New roof in Nov. 2023. This home is too good to pass up! 1072 Little Grove Court is an elegant home in SW Longmont, 15 minutes from Boulder. Bike or walk to highly-rated schools, trails, playground, dog park, and open space in many directions. This home has it all, a huge upgraded kitchen with full height cabinets and lots of counterspace. Amazing island with fabulous granite countertops, SS appliances & large pantry are just a few of the special touches this home boasts. Natural light in abundance. The mudroom area off the 3-car tandem garage and the large office in the front of the house round out the main floor. There is a bright and airy loft to provide another living area in addition to the 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths and handy laundry room that make up the 2nd floor. If that weren’t enough, the backyard is an entertainer’s dream. A large patio provides room to mingle or relax surrounded by the seclusion trees, bushes & a privacy fence provide. The basement is just waiting for your finishing touches or an ample space for storage. Call 970-430-9630 to schedule a private tour or click here for more information.
Katie Robinson | MLS# 1014125
306 Snow Top Drive is nestled in the Storm Mountain community. This 3-bedroom, 2-bath pristine cabin offers nearly 3 acres of stunning and usable land, an ideal home for horse lovers and those seeking a peaceful sanctuary in nature. Newly installed fencing and a horse stall, ready for your equine friends. The cabin has recently been chinked and stained along with the deck that has an automatic Sundowner sunshade. To protect you and your furry friends, this home has been equipped with a fully enclosed dog run and a whole house camera system. Have peace of mind with radon mitigation and a whole house Generac generator with its own dedicated 500-gallon propane tank, ensuring you are never without power! Home has been pre-inspected, ask listing agent for details. Showings start Friday July 12th. Call (970) 690-5707 to schedule a private tour or click here for more information.
Jared Foster | MLS# 1013621
Welcome to 216 10th Street, a charming ranch-style home centrally located in Windsor. Boasting over 1800 sq ft all on a single level, this residence features 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. Inside, you’ll find a spacious living room, a kitchen equipped with cherry cabinets and silestone countertops, and elegant hardwood floors throughout. An inviting sunroom with tile floors extends from the kitchen, offering a tranquil space to relax. Outside, a fenced yard is complemented by a convenient 2-car attached garage. Situated within walking distance to downtown Windsor and the lake, this home offers both comfort and convenience. Call (970) 590-4841 today for a private showing or click here for more information.
Suzanne Ekeler | MLS# 1013712
Have you been searching for a solid mountain home on the sunny side of Black Mountain? 762 Okmulgee Circle is it! Well positioned between and protected by ancient massive rock formations, Moss Rock House is one of the original developed properties in beautiful Crystal Lakes, only a one hour scenic drive NW of Fort Collins. This 3-bed, 2-bath, easy open/close, well insulated cabin has room for everyone inside and out. The large elevated sunroom has magnificent views of the Mummy Range and the North Fork Poudre Valley. The oversized 3-car detached garage with carpenter’s workbench provides ample space for all your recreational equipment. A seasonal stream flows through your private Aspen grove filled with native wildflowers. This 4 acre property is located with easy access to all Crystal Lakes has to offer yet still retains quiet privacy. Enjoy the diverse subalpine forest, wildlife and serenity in this well maintained and much-loved mountain home. Call (970) 401-0123 to schedule a private tour or click here for more information.
Rondi duPont | MLS# 1014198
John Putt | MLS# 9760238
1522 Linden Way is nestled on a cul-de-sac in the highly desirable golf community of Vista Ridge steps away from one of the neighborhood parks. This home has lots of finished sq ft. to enjoy. Basement could be used as 5th bedroom. Enjoy playing golf at Colorado National Golf Club and take advantage of the 2 neighborhood pools and clubhouse in the summer. New roof in 2023, Newer exterior paint and updated kitchen in 2017. Sellers offering $2800 in concessions for hardwood floor refinish or can be done before closing. This home also comes with a 1yr 1st American Home Warranty. Call (970) 420-4498 to schedule a private tour or click here for more information.
Lindsey Crisanti | MLS# 1014552
Welcome to Settlers Village! 896 S Prairie Drive is a well-maintained home that feels like new and boasts over $30k in builder upgrades. Step inside to find durable LVP hardwood floors throughout the main level. The sun-filled, open floor plan leads to a kitchen with 42-inch upper cabinets, quartz countertops, and Slate appliances. Upstairs, the master suite includes a large walk-in closet, a full tiled shower with double sinks, and quartz counters. Two additional bedrooms and a full bathroom with two sinks offer ample space. The convenient laundry room upstairs makes chores a breeze. The fully finished basement features a bedroom, full bathroom, and a living room with a dry bar and quartz countertops. Outside, the three-car garage is insulated, heated and equipped with a hot/cold bib for easy car washing. Relax outside on the 900-square-foot patio, surrounded by a fully landscaped yard complete with planter boxes, drip lines, and a full sprinkler system. Additional storage is available in the 8×10 shed. Located with easy access to Longmont, Windsor, Fort Collins, Boulder, and North Denver, this home is near walking trails, bike trails, and neighborhood parks. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity! Call 970-310-6999 to schedule a private tour.
Alexis Foster | MLS# 1014725
ATTENTION INVESTORS! TWO HOMES ON ONE LOT! This fixer-upper offers an incredible opportunity for investors with a vision and a passion for remodeling. 3624 Terry Lake Road is situated on a spacious lot in a mature neighborhood of Fort Collins. This dual-home property is perfect for those seeking a multifamily setup or an income-generating investment. Imagine the sight of two charming homes side-by-side, each with a brand-new roof, just waiting to be brought back to life. With water tap and electricity already available, the groundwork is set for your dream project. Please note, this property is sold as-is and the listing price reflects the current condition. Buyers must be accompanied by a licensed agent to explore this unique opportunity. A Fixer-Upper with Endless Potential. Call (970) 310-6999 to schedule a private tour or click here for more information.
Alexis Foster | MLS# 1014877
From Renting To Owning
According to a report by Fannie Mae, 74% of consumers plan to buy a home the next time they move. This included 43% of consumers that are currently renting.
The interesting fact is that 9 out of 10 consumers overstated or didn’t know the minimum down payment required for most mortgage programs. The great news is that of those surveyed, 70% of the respondents said they were saving specifically for a down payment.
Speaking with a lender is the first step to understanding the current mortgage requirements. Reach out to your Windermere agent for great lender recommendations.