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Windermere Foundation Approaches $1.5 Million Raised in 2021
Windermere offices across the Western U.S. have remained committed to serving their communities in 2021, collectively raising nearly $1.5 million so far this year alone, pushing the foundation’s grand total raised since 1989 to nearly $45 million. After a successful Community Service Day in June and a first half of the year which saw over $1 million raised, Windermere offices have continued to give back this summer. Here are some recent highlights from across our network.
Windermere Utah
Windermere Utah has always been deeply rooted in its community, and 2021 has been no different. This year alone, they have hosted multiple fundraisers and supported several organizations to affect positive change in their community.
One of the greatest challenges the COVID-19 pandemic has put on schoolchildren is access to technology. After searching for a way to provide digital access to local schoolchildren, Windermere Utah came across the organization Spy Hop, based in Salt Lake City. Spy Hop is a digital media arts center that provides classes in film, music, audio, and design for students between the ages of nine and nineteen. They offer mentoring and host technology drives to provide computers for students in need through a program called the Technology Liberation Project. Windermere Utah donated $3,000 to support Spy Hop’s programs while sponsoring their technology drive in August.
The office also rallied together to support Lincoln Elementary School. As a Title I school, they cannot ask for supplies or funds, often leaving them underfunded compared to other schools in the area. Windermere Utah donated $1,000 for kids to purchase the supplies they need for the school year.
From Left to Right: Misty Medina, Laurann Turner, Lincoln Elementary Rep, Shawnee Cooper, Lincoln Elementary Rep, Michelle Adkins, Chelle Preslar, Kelly Silvestor, and Stephanie Vera
Windermere Evergreen – Evergreen, CO
Windermere Evergreen has close ties to the local Rotary Wildfire Ready program and given the prevalence of wildfires across the Western U.S. in recent years, the office was inspired to tap their Foundation resources to support local wildfire relief efforts. John Putt–managing broker at Windermere Evergreen—is a member of the Rotary Wildfire Ready leadership council. A former paramedic and firefighter, he is passionate about providing resources and education to mountain communities regarding wildfire preparedness. After trying to come up with ways to support the program, they settled on a classic method of bringing the community together—a good old tailgate party. The office donated $1,000 to support the Rotary Wildfire Ready program, and the first annual Windermere Foundation Tailgate Party saw members of the community come together from all corners of town.
The Evergreen, Colorado Rotary Wildfire Ready firetruck.
Windermere Spokane – Spokane, WA
After hosting a blood drive earlier this year, Windermere Spokane has continued to find ways they can provide for those in need in their community. In early September, they turned their attention toward Spokane’s youth. When they saw the Spokane branch of Volunteers of America announce that they were planning to move their Crosswalk Youth Shelter across town to a new facility, the office jumped at the opportunity to help. Windermere Spokane held a matching fundraiser that ultimately raised over $21,000 for the new shelter. But the office’s recent foundation efforts didn’t stop there.
In preparation for the new school year, the office held their Spokane Sock and Shoe Event to support local low-income and homeless grade school-aged kids with new pairs of shoes and socks. This year’s event provided new shoes and socks for 116 kids.
Left to Right: Windermere agents Blythe Thimsen and Brenda McKinley
Windermere agent Brenda McKinley
Kritsonis Lindor Team — Windermere Bellevue South – Bellevue, WA
Windermere agents John Kritsonis and Karl Lindor of Kritsonis Lindor have been strong supporters of the Issaquah Food & Clothing Bank in years past, but the continued challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic made it clear that the IFCB needed their support more than ever. After food insecurity for children in their county jumped 54% in 2020, John and Karl knew they had to go all-in for their community. They doubled down on their fundraising campaign with a $25,000 match, ultimately raising $55,958. On August 20, their team spent the day volunteering at the food bank, putting together produce bags, and passing out groceries to families. All in all, they were able to provide groceries to over 120 families and over 350 kids. Their donations will support IFCB’s summer lunch program, which feeds roughly 300 children weekly during the summer.
To learn more about the Windermere Foundation, visit windermerefoundation.com.
Windermere Foundation Evergreen Tailgate Party 2021
At Windermere, giving back to our communities is the cornerstone of who we are. Over the past 30 years, our owners, staff and agents have worked together to organize events, raise funds, and spread awareness about worthy causes to strengthen our communities and lend a hand to those in need.
Last week, our team in Evergreen hosted their first annual tailgate party to raise funds for the Rotary Wildfire Ready Campaign, a community-based project whose mission is to build wildfire awareness in mountain communities.
John Putt, Cindy Latham, Chuck Ridings
Wildfires pose a major threat to mountain communities due to the enormous volume of trees in the surrounding area. Archuleta County, Jefferson County, La Plata County and Montezuma County are just a few areas that face the threat of wildfires each year. Rotary Wildfire Ready helps residents assess their wildfire risk, learn how to harden their homes with fire resistant materials, and create an evacuation plan to keep their families safe.
The Rotary Wildfire Ready Truck
With the help of our sponsors (pictured below): Kate Higgins with BW Mortgage, Laura Roberts with Chicago Title of Colorado and Otterbox, we were able to raise $2,200 of which 100% of the proceeds were donated to the Rotary Wildfire Ready Campaign.
Yvette Putt, John Putt, Kailee Harvey, Dave Gorsuch
Kate Higgins, JT Putt, Dave Gorsuch, John Putt, Yvette Putt, Laura Roberts
Click here to donate to Rotary Wildfire Ready or to learn more about the organization.
Secluded Mountain Retreat in Evergreen!
Come home to 34808 Forest Estates in Evergreen, a surprising retreat. Almost an acre that is surrounded by impressive spruces and aspens that allow for a very private and quiet setting. The extensive half covered & half-open back deck has stairs that lead to a portion of a flat, manicured backyard that is carefully fenced. Outside the fenced area, are paths that meander. allowing for strolls through the forest along the small creek. Meticulously maintained and updated. The kitchen has been remodeled with new granite countertops, subway backsplash, new hardware, and new stainless-steel appliances. Professionally painted inside and out in tandem with professionally landscaped backyard with drought-resistant sod. Open concept with vaulted ceilings, fireplace and direct access to the oversized deck that overlooks the display of trees. Spacious Master suite has an adjoining bath. The lower level has a large family room.
https://windermereevergreen.com/listing/101695368
Mountain Retreat in Evergreen!
Amazing custom remodel at 7875 Native Dancer Trail in Evergreen that now provides an open main floor living layout with vaulted ceilings accented with timber beams and beautiful wood floors. The kitchen, which is the center piece of the living area, sports a wolf range, subzero refrigerator, Bosch dishwasher and substantial granite counter space along with abundant cabinets. There are two fireplaces on either side of this large integrated room, along with sky reaching windows that flood the whole area with light and views of the clouds passing by. There are two large decks…one on the South side of the house and one on the North for relaxing or entertaining. The Lower level could be a mother-in-law apartment or just two additional bedrooms and recreation room. Located in the wonderful quiet neighborhood of Evergreen Meadows West on 2.6 acres. This is a property that is a must see! Contact John Putt at (720) 201-1332 or Yvette Putt at (303) 882-2245 for your private showing for more information or click the link below for more details.
https://windermereevergreen.com/listing/98428448
Stunning One of a Kind Home in Evergreen!
FLOOR TO CEILING INSPIRATION Simple Designs are the most extraordinary! This Modern Rocky Mountain Passive Solar Masterpiece at 23201 Loggers Trail in Evergreen is sited at the base of a 60 ft. Rock Outcropping and is oriented to a commanding view of Mt. Evans. Architect Anderson Mason Dale designed a house that celebrates the Rocky Mountains while incorporating basic passive solar techniques. Sunlight spills through a long glass skylight that floods the massive 33ft x 135ft long elemental Moss Rock wall and brings natural light into the interior spaces where the rich wood ceilings and beams are illuminated. There is a harmonious flow between indoor and out that makes it perfectly in tune with its surrounding natural environment. Outdoor patios are located on either side of the main living and dining areas allowing for great relaxing or Party movement. 5759 SF Property has 24.99 Acres, zoned A-2. Large Barn/workshop (1953.25 SF) Contact John Putt at (720) 201-1332 or Yvette Putt at (303) 882-2245 for your private showing for more information or click the link below for more details.
Private and Serene 36.8 Acres
Featuring 4 Bedrooms and 3 Bathrooms
Very private and serene 36.8 sunny and use-able acres! This beautiful house is
located at the crest of a hill providing extensive views towards the South. The
gated driveway meanders up to the house and the four car garage. A three stall
barn is located down below the house. There is an additional storage building
within close proximity to the home as well. Amazing and unusual rock
outcroppings on the property.
For more information on 15626 Pine Valley Rd please visit, the listing website.
You may also call John Putt at (720) 201-1332 or Yvette Putt at (303) 882-2245.
At Home in the Outdoors
More than 80 percent of Americans say they want an outdoor living space where they can relax and entertain. And it’s no wonder why. Outdoor spaces extend your livable space, add visual interest, and increase not only your quality of life, but also the overall value of your home. (In some cases, the increase in your home’s value can cover most or all of the cost to create the new space.) Here are some options to consider:
DECK
Decks are still the most popular outdoor living spaces, not only because they work so well for entertaining and relaxing, but also because they have the highest return on investment (see the Tips column for data).
Surprisingly, wood decks (made of cedar or pine) are actually the better financial investment, because building with Trex or other popular composite products costs considerably more, yet doesn’t increase the home’s value by as much.
Expanding and re-configuring your current deck is another option that’s popular today. The contractor will typically remove the old face boards, extend the underlying structure, and then put down the new decking. This is also an opportunity to add built-in furniture, privacy screens, even plumbing and electricity.
PATIO
Running a close second to decks – in both popularity and investment return – are patios. With a patio, you can relax and entertain at ground level, which can afford more privacy in urban areas, and allows you to be more engaged with the surrounding plants and landscaping.
Typically made of brick, concrete, or stone, a patio also comes with far fewer maintenance and repair issues than a deck. Plus, patios are generally easier and less disruptive to construct – which is why they’re often about 30 percent less expensive to have professionally built.
GAZEBO
For those who want even more privacy, as well as shelter from the sun and protection from mosquitoes and other pests, there’s the gazebo. Available with walls or as an open-air design, with screening or not, these modestly sized, affordable backyard structures can be built from scratch or purchased as a kit (for assembly by a do-it-yourselfer or a professional).
Popular in the Midwest for decades, gazebos have made their way west as homeowners here have discovered how nice and easy they are for creating a shaded spot for reading, relaxing, and backyard gatherings.
OUTDOOR KITCHEN
People tend to gather naturally in the kitchen. And when the kitchen is outdoors, it creates an ideal opportunity to mix, mingle and interact in the open air. Other reasons why cooking outdoors makes so much sense: less kitchen cleanup, the house stays cooler during the summer, and grilled food just tastes better.
Some may think an outdoor kitchen is only for cooks who host large parties, but homeowners who go this route say they’re more of an extension of the home, and great for daily use.
Designs for outdoor kitchens range from the simple (a grill, limited counter and cabinet space, and maybe a prep sink) to truly independent entities with a refrigerator, an elaborate grill, warming oven, freestanding island with storage space, rolling cart stations, and even a dishwasher. Depending on how elaborate your design, you may be able to list it as a second kitchen when selling your house.
SIX PLANNING SUGGESTIONS
- Before meeting with contractors, gather photos of designs and ideas that you like; this will make it much easier to communicate your ideas.
- Make sure the materials you plan to use, as well as the overall size of the structure, will be harmonious with your home’s current look and feel.
- Give serious consideration to a roof – which will likely add significantly to the cost, but will also provide much-needed shade on hot days and protection from rain and inclement weather. In fact, to ensure things are structurally sound and architecturally appealing, start with the design for the roof first, then set your sights on the roof supports and structure below.
- Incorporate lighting into your design, which will extend its usability into the evening and throughout the seasons.
- Consider convenience, comfort, and longevity when choosing materials. For example, a floor made of dirt or stepping stones may last forever, but one made of wood or concrete is much easier to clean and arrange furniture upon.
If you’re eager to live a healthier lifestyle and reconnect with family and friends, as most people are today, it’s time to consider an outdoor living space. For more information on Windermere Evergreen please click here.
Desirable Setting with Mountain Views
Featuring 5 Acres with Southern Exposure
One of the most desirable settings in Soda Creek, complete with wonderful southern exposure, mountain views, gentle meadow, abundant Aspen and Conifer trees and dynamic rock outcroppings. Well is already drilled. This is a Builder’s dream Lot! Very quiet and serene location while still being 5 minutes from shopping and restaurants. Quick trip to Denver or skiing.
For more information please click here. You may also call Yvette Putt at (303) 882-2245 or John Putt at (720) 201-1332.
Homeowners Insurance: Protecting Your Home
In addition to providing shelter and comfort, our home is often our single greatest asset. And it’s important that we protect that precious investment. Most homeowners realize the importance of homeowners insurance in safeguarding the value of a home. However, what they may not know is that about two-thirds of all homeowners are under-insured. According to a national survey, the average homeowner has enough insurance to rebuild only about 80% of his or her house.
What a standard homeowners policy covers
A standard homeowner’s insurance policy typically covers your home, your belongings, injury or property damage to others, and living expenses if you are unable to live in your home temporarily because of an insured disaster.
The policy likely pays to repair or rebuild your home if it is damaged or destroyed by disasters, such as fire or lighting. Your belongings, such as furniture and clothing, are also insured against these types of disasters, as well as theft. Some risks, such as flooding or acts of war, are routinely excluded from homeowner policies.
Other coverage in a standard homeowner’s policy typically includes the legal costs for injury or property damage that you or family members, including your pets, cause to other people. For example, if someone is injured on your property and decides to sue, the insurance would cover the cost of defending you in court and any damages you may have to pay. Policies also provide medical coverage in the event someone other than your family is injured in your home.
If your home is seriously damaged and needs to be rebuilt, a standard policy will usually cover hotel bills, restaurant meals and other living expenses incurred while you are temporarily relocated.
How much insurance do you need?
Homeowners should review their policy each year to make sure they have sufficient coverage for their home. The three questions to ask yourself are:
· Do I have enough insurance to protect my assets?
· Do I have enough insurance to rebuild my home?
· Do I have enough insurance to replace all my possessions?
Here’s some more information that will help you determine how much insurance is enough to meet your needs and ensure that your home will be sufficiently protected.
Protect your assets
Make sure you have enough liability insurance to protect your assets in case of a lawsuit due to injury or property damage. Most homeowner’s insurance policies provide a minimum of $100,000 worth of liability coverage. With the increasingly higher costs of litigation and monetary compensation, many homeowners now purchase $300,000 or more in liability protection. If that sounds like a lot, consider that the average dog bite claim is about $20,000. Talk with your insurance agent about the best coverage for your situation.
Rebuild your home
You need enough insurance to finance the cost of rebuilding your home at current construction costs, which vary by area. Don’t confuse the amount of coverage you need with the market value of your home. You’re not insuring the land your home is built on, which makes up a significant portion of the overall value of your property. In pricey markets such as San Francisco, land costs account for over 75 percent of a home’s value.
The average policy is designed to cover the cost of rebuilding your home using today’s standard building materials and techniques. If you have an unusual, historical or custom-built home, you may want to contact a specialty insurer to ensure that you have sufficient coverage to replicate any special architectural elements. Those with older homes should consider additions to the policy that pay the cost of rebuilding their home to meet new building codes.
Finally, if you’ve done any recent remodeling, make sure your insurance reflects the increased value of your home.
Remember that a standard policy does not pay for damage caused by a flood or earthquake. Special coverage is needed to protect against these incidents. Your insurance company can let you know if your area is flood or earthquake prone. The cost of coverage depends on your home’s location and corresponding risk.
Replacing your valuables
If something happens to your home, chances are the things inside will be damaged or destroyed as well. Your coverage depends on the type of policy you have. A cost value policy pays the cost to replace your belongings minus depreciation. A replacement cost policy reimburses you for the cost to replace the item.
There are limits on the losses that can be claimed for expensive items, such as artwork, jewelry, and collectables. You can get additional coverage for these types of items by purchasing supplemental premiums.
To determine if you have enough insurance, you need to have a good handle on the value of your personal items. Create a detailed home inventory file that keeps track of the items in your home and the cost to replace them.
Create a home inventory file
It takes time to inventory your possessions, but it’s time well spent. The little bit of extra preparation can also keep your mind at ease. The best method for creating a home inventory list is to go through each room of your home and individually record the items of significant value. Simple inventory lists are available online. You can also sweep through each room with a video or digital camera and document each of your belongings. Your home inventory file should include the following items:
· Item description and quantity
· Manufacturer or brand name
· Serial number or model number
· Where the item was purchased
· Receipt or other proof of purchase \Photocopies of any appraisals, along with the name and address of the appraiser
· Date of purchase (or age)
· Current value
· Replacement cost
Pay special attention to highly valuable items such as electronics, artwork, jewelry, and collectibles.
Storing your home inventory list
Make sure your inventory list and images will be safe incase your home is damaged or destroyed. Store them in a safe deposit box, at the home of a friend or relative, or on an online Web storage site. Some insurance companies provide online storage for digital files. (Storing them on your home computer does you no good if your computer is stolen or damaged). Once you have an inventory file set up, be sure to update it as you make new purchases.
We invest a lot in our homes, so it’s important we take the necessary measures to safeguard it against financial and emotional loss in the wake of a disaster.
For more information about Windermere Evergreen please click here.
