We’ve said it before…there are many great reasons to buy a new home instead of purchasing a used one.  And we’re glad to note that U.S. News and World Report agrees.  In fact, they point out a reason to buy new that, given our commitment to environmentally friendly building practices and great design, really hits home — buying new means buying greener.

Building codes have mandated increasingly higher energy efficiency standards since they began to address the issue in the late 1970s, says Kevin Morrow, senior program manager for the National Association of Home Builders’ green building programs. “The most recent International Energy Conservation Code came out in 2009 [and] required roughly 17 percent more efficiency than the codes of three years prior,” he says. “So using that as sort of a gauge to how newer homes should perform from an efficiency standpoint compared to older homes, it’s pretty clear that just as homes meet code, they are going to be more efficient.”

Newly constructed homes use energy more efficiently in two ways, Morrow says. First, they tend to have a tighter-sealed building envelope that helps prevent conditioned air—cool air in the summer, warm air in the winter—from escaping. Features that create this envelope include higher-efficiency insulation, doors, and windows. “Gone are the days of the single pane window … now I think you are starting to see triple- and quadruple-paned windows,” Morrow says. “These are windows that are designed to really minimize the transfer of heat either from warm to cold or vice versa, and they of course will help the building envelope.”

In addition, the article notes that newer appliances are more energy-efficient and Earth-friendly.  And luckily, buying green doesn’t mean scrimping on things like storage, custom finishes, stunning design, or the exemplary lifestyle that comes with great location.  Find out more about what we mean…drop by one of our homesites today!  Click here to learn more about Boulder Creek’s communities.

Here at Boulder Creek, we spend a lot of time helping homebuyers discover the home that’s perfectly suited to their family, their lifestyle, and their aspirations.  But while we pride ourselves on providing “right size” homes that are eco-friendly to boot, there are some considerations that come into play.  Here are some things we take into account when right-sizing homes:

Storage.  Given the amazing recreation opportunities in Boulder County and beyond, all that gear can really add up!  Bikes, skis, sportswear, fishing poles, hiking boots…not to mention cars and other conveyances.  We believe that the right-sized home has the right amount of storage for your prized possessions.  That’s why we take storage into consideration from the moment the pencil hits the drawing board.  (Hint:  in most Boulder Creek homes, rakes and snow shovels aren’t necessary!) For example, our Kingsbridge Townhomes in Longmont feature attached two-car garages, bike storage AND ample closets and cabinets.

Space.  The interior spaces you live in are just as important as where you stow all that gear.  We think the right interiors are spacious, beautiful, and livable.  Take the colorful cottages at Erie Village, where perfectly-proportioned ranch and two-story floorplans were built with your lifestyle in mind.

Second to None.  There’s a reason behind the awards and honors…Boulder Creek’s ironclad commitment to excellence in building.  From building techniques that are better for the Earth to the exquisite designs, locations, and finishes that make a house a home, we are committed to bringing life and home together in new homes that are sized right, placed right, and priced right.  Is Boulder Creek right for you?  Click here to explore our award-winning green communities today.

This Boulder Creek Community provides unique homes designed around how people aspire to live.

More and more homebuyers are discovering the value, choice location and exciting home designs in the Kingsbridge townhome community in Longmont. Now the word has spread far beyond the local home market, as out-of-staters are beginning to choose Kingsbridge as their new address.

Jeannette and Charles Burke had visited the Boulder area several times from their home in New Hampshire to visit their son, daughter-in-law and two grandchildren. After several visits, the Burke’s realized it would be a great time to purchase a home in Colorado to be closer to family. The challenge was to find the right situation, in the right community that allowed them the lifestyle of traveling and visiting family they desired.

The Burkes’ search for the right location and lifestyle led them to Boulder Creek Life and Home in their newest community at Kingsbridge, located at the very successful community of Renaissance in southwest Longmont.

“We looked at a lot of homes – single family, townhomes and condos – all over. We looked in Erie, Broomfield and Denver. When we saw Kingsbridge, I thought, ‘This is it; this is just what we wanted,’” says Jeannette Burke.

Kingsbridge residents enjoy maintenance-free living, with all exterior maintenance, lawn services and snow removal provided by the home-owners association. It’s the kind of lifestyle that lets grandparents spend their time with their family instead of maintaining a home. For active couples and singles who travel frequently or who maintain a residence elsewhere, this lock-and-leave freedom provides peace of mind when they are away.

The Burkes chose the Venice floorplan, which Jeannette says is just the right size. “We are downsizing, but this doesn’t feel small. The open design is bright and roomy, with the living room, dining room and kitchen flowing together.” The living room opens to a private deck, with a powder room and half bath completing the main level. The home’s upper level features a master bedroom suite with bath, a second bedroom, another full bath and a loft that is perfect for a library or office. The attached two-car garage and ample storage space are located on the lower level.

Kingsbridge townhomes are Energy Star rated, with low-e windows, a high-efficiency furnace and water heater, and two-by-six framing. Low- VOC paints and finishes help protect the inside environment. The Burkes personalized their home working with the Kingsbridge design team to choose their finishes. “Brett Patterson, the Kingsbridge sales associate, has been great to work with,” Jeannette reports.

Kingsbridge is well located for easy access to the business corridors of Longmont as well as quick access to Boulder via HWY 119. The Kingsbridge Townhomes are distinguished by their engaging architecture, innovative floor plans, Green Building practices and personal choices of finish in homes typically reserved for a much higher priced neighborhood.

Unique home buying opportunity won’t last

“New home buyers are looking at an unprecedented opportunity to take advantage of historically low-interest rates and amazing home values that won’t last forever,” says Paul Gortzig, sales and marketing director for Boulder Creek Life and Home, the award-winning developer of Kingsbridge.

Discover the value, location and maintenance-free living at Kingsbridge

The Kingsbridge information center is located on Venice Ln. in southwest Longmont just west of Airport Road, 1 mile north from CO-119 (Diagonal Highway). 1656 Venice Ln., Longmont, CO 80503. The sales office is open Monday 12 to 6 p.m.; Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

For more information, call 303.502.5338.

Article courtesy of Boulder Daily Camera – At Home

Matt proudly shows off his new kitchen. Gray skies couldn’t put a damper on Boulder Creek Life and Home’s “housewarming” barbecue this past weekend at Kingsbridge, the exciting new townhome community in Longmont’s Renaissance neighborhood.

Dozens of people toured the professionally decorated fluorescent bulbs and Energy Star appliances, chosen for model residences, competed in a scavenger hunt, and enjoyed their superior efficiency. was a no brainer.” free burgers, brats and all the fixings, courtesy of Boulder Visitors to the Florence, Milan, Venice and Tuscany Creek’s staff, who manned the grill.

Since breaking ground six months ago, Kingsbridge is well-thought-out floor plans, green-built quality and upscale already attracting the attention of home buyers who are options usually only associated with semi-custom homes. looking for this perfect mix of value, style, sustainable quality Townhomes range from 1,400 to 1,793 square feet, each and low-maintenance living. “This location in southwest with three bathrooms and either two or three bedrooms, per Longmont is ideal, with easy access to the Diagonal plan. Each home includes a private two-car attached garage. Highway, IBM and Boulder,” says Brent Patterson, sales Homeowners enjoy year-round, low-maintenance living, with manager for Kingsbridge. “It’s just minutes from major all exterior maintenance and services taken care of by the HOA. employers, retail centers and community amenities.”

New owner Matt Gortzig, who will be moving into his Florence-model home in a few weeks, says that he was impressed with the value that was available right now. “I really like what I am getting for the price, and interest rates are great. And as a single guy, I definitely appreciate the benefit of lock-and-leave living. I don’t want to be tied down with yard work and maintenance.” Kingsbridge’s location is ideal, he says, with easy access to his job in Boulder, and restaurants just down the street. “I was so disappointed with my options in Boulder that buying 10 minutes away in Kingsbridge was a no brainer.”

Gortzig reports that the process of choosing the interior finishes and fixtures was easy. “I got to pick all my finishes, truly making it my home.”

Kingsbridge townhomes are constructed to “Built Green” standards and qualify as Energy Star homes. Low-E glazed windows and loose fill fiberglass insulation make your home easy to heat and a breeze to cool. Two-by-six framing is standard instead of the two-by-fours you’ll find elsewhere, creating sturdier, deeper walls that hold more insulation and are more soundproof.

The inside environment is protected by low-VOC paints and finishes. Carpets are made of recycled materials, and are tacked down rather than glued, to help protect the quality of the air you breathe. All lighting fixtures use compact fluorescents bulbs and Energy Star appliances, chosen for their superior efficiency.

Visitors to the Florence, Milan, Venice and Tuscany townhomes were impressed with the engaging architecture, well-thought-out floor plans, green-built quality and upscale options usually only associated with semi-custom homes. Townhomes range from 1,400 to 1,793 square feet, each with three bathrooms and either two or three bedrooms, per plan. Each home includes a private two-car attached garage. Homeowners enjoy year-round, low-maintenance living, with all exterior maintenance and services taken care of by the HOA.

The Kingsbridge community is being developed by Boulder Creek Life and Home. Founded more than three decades ago, the award-winning company’s active lifestyle communities now include The Heritage at Vista Ridge in Erie, Erie Village, Blue Vista and Shadow Grass Park in Longmont.

You owe it to yourself to see Kingsbridge

Kingsbridge is located in West Longmont just off Airport Road in Boulder County. Three models are now open for your visit.

From Boulder: Head northeast on CO-119 (Diagonal Highway). Turn left (north) on Airport Road. After 1 mile turn left (west) onto Venice Lane. Look for the blue flags. The Sales Center is on the north side of Venice Lane. From Longmont: Head southwest on CO-119 (Diagonal Highway). Turn right (north) on Airport Road. After 1 mile turn left (west) onto Venice Lane.

From Denver: Head north on I-25 to Exit 240. Turn left (west) on CO-119. Head west through Longmont for 10 miles. Turn right (north) on Airport Road. After 1 mile turn left (west) onto Venice Lane.

The sales office is open Monday noon to 6 p.m.; Thursday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Tuesday and Wednesday by appointment. For more information, call 303.502.5338.

Visit http://livekingsbridge.com to learn more about Kingsbridge Townhomes

By L.L. Charles; article courtesy of Daily Camera – At Home Section

Celebrate the low-maintenance life and ring in the beginning of summer with us!  Join Boulder Creek Life + Home at Kingsbridge, Boulder County’s best lock-and-leave green townhome community, for a celebration of summer fun on Saturday, June 12 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

We’ll serve burgers, brats, and refreshments and give away tickets to Elitch Gardens, Water World, and Rockies games in addition to iPod Nanos!  Bring your family, friends, and anyone who might enjoy learning more about Kingsbridge’s low-maintenance townhomes, with some of Boulder County’s most competitive pricing for new homes.

Join the fun…we’ll see you by the BBQ!  Visit http://livekingsbridge.com for more information.

Here at Boulder Creek Life + Home, we talk a lot about “low-maintenance living.”  But what does that really mean?

• It means no weeding.  Ever. No more stooping down to get that nasty weed that likes to grow…and grow again.  Your landscape is taken care of by our professionals!
• It means no snow shoveling.  Ever. Count on your sidewalks to be well-maintained all the year round.
• It means sturdy, reliable construction…that’s eco-friendly. Forget constant repairs and unsound structures.  Our green building practices build houses to last.
• It means more time to live, work, and play. So get out there and hike, bike, run, and indulge in all the recreation our communities have to offer!  At your Boulder Creek home, you’ll have plenty of time to devote to the things that matter.

Ready to leave your lawnmower, gardening gloves, and snow shovel behind?  Visit our website to find out more about our green, low-maintenance homes.

As a new home builder, we specialize in brand-new building…but often notice a disconnect when buyers wonder why they’d go for new construction.  Here’s a quick rundown of the benefits of a new home:

Freedom of Choice:  New home construction means that you can choose many facets of your home instead of having them handed down to you.  From the homesite to the finishes in your kitchen, new construction means plenty of choice and customization.

Green Construction:  Each of our new homes is built green…a feature you simply can’t buy in older homes.  Building green up-front means you won’t have to upgrade later…and can significantly reduce your impact on the Earth’s carbon load and pollution while saving you money in the short term.

Low-Maintenance:  Let’s face it…structural and landscaping issues are the name of the game when you buy an existing home.  But Boulder Creek homes are new and under warranty, which means that repairs are our problem, while our lock-and-leave, low-maintenance commitment forever frees you from shoveling snow and mowing lawns.

Ground-Up Communities:  New homes allow you to be truly invested in your up-and-coming neighborhood, creating community from the ground up.  And with our reasonably-priced homes with access to so many recreational opportunities and amenities, there will be plenty of ways to enjoy your new lifestyle with your new friends.

Did you know that new home construction through Boulder Creek Life and Home starts at under $200,000 in Boulder County?  Visit our website http://livebouldercreek.com for more information…and consider new home construction as you prepare to invest in a home!

Time is ticking on the New Homeowner Tax Credit, and we’re coming across many myths and misconceptions as we speak to people eager to get into their first, green, wallet-friendly home and take advantage of this great opportunity.  Here are a few of the top myths:

Myth 1:  It’s a Deduction or a Loan.
Myth Busted:  It’s a Credit! New homebuyers do not have to pay back the tax credit…it will be added to their refund!  That’s like $8,000 in your pocket.

Myth 2:  Only people who have never owned a home apply.
Myth Busted:  Not necessarily. In fact, if you and your spouse have not owned or not lived in a home that you own for the last three years, you can take advantage of the credit.

Myth 3:  It doesn’t apply to new construction or anything but a free-standing house.
Myth Busted:  New homes and condos and townhomes count! In fact, the credit applies to detached homes as well as townhouses, condominiums, mobile homes, and even houseboats.

Don’t fall for the many myths that are out there on the tax credit…pursue your dream of homeownership before time runs out on April 30!  Click here for more information on our new-buyer-friendly Kingsbridge Townhomes, where Boulder County lifestyle meets green low-maintenance starting at just $198k.

One of the best part of building homes that build community is taking part in our community at large.  EFAA (Emergency Family Assistance Association) is a non-profit that shares our vision.  Since 1918, EFAA has acted as a community safety net to families who have nowhere else to turn when they can’t meet their basic needs.  EFAA provides basic needs, shelter, and support to families and elderly and disabled Boulder and Broomfield County residents and relies on local and individual donations rather than federal or state funds.

That’s where Boulder Creek comes in.  We tied attendance at our successful My First Home Expo to donations to EFAA along with our local sponsors Advantage Bank, County Line Lumber and Taylor Movers…and thanks to their support and the support of our attendees, our Kingsbridge Sales Associate, Brent Patterson, was able to present checks totaling $2,040 to EFAA’s Development Director, Karla Rikansrud, in the EFAA Food Bank.

Thank you so much to everyone who helped us donate to this worthy local cause!  To learn more about EFAA, visit efaa.org.

Our My First Home Expo at the Kingsbridge townhome community in South Longmont was a wonderful weekend of informative workshops and realtor events…including some fabulous prizes.

Congratulations to Carol Schack with Prudential Rocky Mountain Realtors and Ed, our lucky iPod Nano winners!