About Mesa County, CO

I'm sure some of you have heard by now that the government has bought out Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae. This was big news that became even bigger as the overseas markets and Dow Jones opened higher than expected. I think this can be seen as a positive. Also, one of my lenders was saying that rates were looking to go down to 5 7/8% today, that is down from 6 1/2% on Friday. That is quite a reduction. This reduction is the difference between renting and buying a home for some people. I have included links to a couple of articles on this subject below:

Fannie, Freddie deal helps some borrowers, not all

Stocks mostly advance on plan for mortgage giants

Mortgage rates drop after Fannie, Freddie takeover

Grand Junction, Colorado is a place of scenic beauty, full of outdoor adventure and unparalleled attractions. The town is known as the gateway to western Colorado, thanks to its location on the edge of the Rockies and desert mesas. It is here that you will find the Colorado National Monument's behemoth sandstone structure, Glenwood Canyon, and Rifle Gap Falls. The variety of activities are astounding, from hiking and biking to dinosaur digging! There are plenty of options for shopping, dining, and relaxing, and Grand Junction proves to be a perfect location for a number of day trips or weekend getaways.

The town supports a population of approximately 51,623 residents, whose median age is 39 years old. The average household income in Grand Junction is around $35,000 per year. While home values have continued to appreciate in this region, potential home buyers will enjoy a wealth of diversity for housing options. The median value of a home in the area is $274,000. There is truly something for nearly everyone in Grand Junction, should you choose a suburban cottage or sprawling executive digs. The majority of folks here are employed in the retail sector. Manufacturing follows second, in terms of number of individuals employed, followed by professional services, the sciences and technology.

Click on the website below for free relocation information for Grand Junction, Colorado Relocation:

http://grand-junction-colorado-living.com

Historic homes are the most rewarding property you could possibly renovate. Have you ever watched This Old House, and drooled at the final result when the house was finished? Did you fantasize over finding hidden gold in a 1800's oldie goldie? I did! I bought our first renovation without my husband seeing it. He thought I was crazy and I was throwing away our money! Our first home was a Cracker Cabin in the pan handle of Florida. It was on 40 acres. We put lots of sweat equity in that place. We pushed down an old out building and paneled the kitchen with the barn wood. We fixed and painted and we learned everything the hard way. It was a very difficult for two inexperienced city slickers to figure things out but we did. It was hard work but we doubled our money!

After the cabin our second renovation was a snap. We bought a rundown condo with a gorgeous lake and mountain views. We did the simple things, clean, paint, re-tile and bought new appliances. Our work started a slew of other renovations in the building and since we started first we had a quick, easy and profitable sale. Six(total renovations) later and very good profit, we swore,no more renovations. We had a Historic House relapse and bought another 1905 Victorian but someone else did most of the hard work. I promised my husband no more fixers. To those buyers who want a fixer.....let me find you one and then YOU buy it. My husband will love that! Historic homes are still my passion but a promise is a promise and I keep my Promises.

Market Statistics for August 17, 2008 - August 23, 2008

According to our local MLS, there are currently 1,666 active residential listings in Grand Junction, 335 homes are under contract, and 37 homes sold last week. Over the last few weeks the amount of active listings has been declining. This is good news! They are broken into areas below-

• City Area - 172 active/3 sold
• North Area - 269 active/ 4 sold
• Northeast Area - 175 active/ 6 sold
• Southeast Area - 175 active/ 5 sold
• Clifton Area - 77 active / 9 sold
• Orchard Mesa Area - 171 active / 1 sold
• Redlands Area - 224 active / 3 sold
• Fruita Area - 270 active / 4 sold
• Palisade/East Orchard Mesa Area - 72 active / 1 sold
• Northwest Area - 23 active / 0 sold
• West Area - 38 active / 1 sold
• Whitewater - 43 active / 0 sold

The Different Neighborhoods in Mesa County - This is a general guide to the different areas

This is a question I hear almost daily. The vacancy rate was at 1.6% for the second quarter according to a survey released Thursday by the Colorado Division of Housing. Grand Junction came in at the lowest vacancy rate out of 1,600 rental districts in the State. It is especially hard to find short term rentals. Currently, A 2 bedroom and 1 bath duplex with 800 square feet in somewhat bad repair, is renting for around $950 in the Redlands Area. By comparison, a newer 3 bedroom and 2 bath home with 1200 square feet in good repair is renting for around $1350 in the Southeast area.

As I look at this and the prices of real estate, right now. I can't help but think that if you are renting this is a great time to look into buying a home. For example, right now, you can buy a newer 3 bedroom 2 bath home in the Southeast area and your monthly mortgage payment would be the same as your rent. There is a lot of inventory out there and it is considered a buyer's market.

I know, I know, I can hear you saying, but I don't have good credit. Most people think there credit is worse than it actually is. There are many lending options available even to the people who don't have stellar credit. It is free to talk to a lender and you many be surprised at what you can afford. Stop throwing your money away on rent! On average, nationwide, real estate has appreciated 6% annually over the last 40 years. Home ownership is a proven, great long term investment!

Looking for a place to rent? Good Luck? - Daily Sentinel Article