The Fourmile Fire has left devastation in its wake…and we’re glad to see local businesses and organizations pull together in the spirit of life and home to help victims.  This just came in from the Boulder Area Realtors Association:

BARA Members,

I felt it was important for you to know the actions your association is taking to assist the many families, including fellow REALTORS®, who are victims of the Fourmile Fire.

Today, we requested and have been granted $25,000 from the Colorado Association of REALTORS® Housing Opportunity Foundation (CARHOF).  BARA members have contributed to CARHOF significantly over the last 20 years and we are grateful for the support CARHOF and our state association is lending our community at this most distressing time.

We are partnering with Elevations Credit Union’s Foundation, which will match publically donated funds up to $10,000.  Dennis Paul of Elevations Credit Union is an affiliate member of our association who made this partnership possible.

In addition, BARA has posted ways in which you may further provide relief on our Face Book page and on our web site – www.BARAonLine.com .  Please give as you can.

Mike Moger, President

Boulder Area REALTOR® Association

Kudos to BARA and to everyone who’s been so supportive after the fire.

Sluggish consumer confidence, slow-as-molasses sales cycles…2009 wasn’t exactly a banner year for huge economic growth.  But there’s great news for buyers in the Denver/Boulder market:  economic indicators are pointing to increased recovery and more cash flow in the new year.  Here’s a selection of recent great news in economic indicators:

Colorado to gain jobs in 2010: “Colorado should see job growth returning and home prices start rising again this year as the U.S. economic recovery gains traction, according to a forecast Wednesday from Vectra Bank Colorado.  The U.S. economy should grow 2.5 percent to 3 percent this year, adjusting for inflation, predicted economist Jeff Thredgold at Vectra Bank’s 17th Annual Economic Forecast Breakfast.”

CU-Boulder economist:  financial recovery is on the way: “The past couple months have shown some bright spots in relation to employment, he said, and it is expected that job growth should come in the second half of the year.”

Forecast 2010:  Let the recovery begin: On the flip side, “If you’re in a position to buy, with access to credit or cash, this is the best time to buy,” Hotard said. Low interest rates, discounted prices and the extension of the first-time homebuyer’s tax credit through April are all in the buyers’ favor.

Here at Boulder Creek, we’re optimistic for the new year…and we’re seeing great growth in our custom communities like Erie Village, Vista Ridge, and Kingsbridge.  As the year picks up, remember that time is running out for your $8000 first-time or $6500 homebuyer credit.  Now’s the time to invest in Colorado’s growth in the coming year!  Click here to learn more about Boulder Creek communities.