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.

At Boulder Creek Life and Home, we know that home isn’t home without lifestyle…and life isn’t life without home. As we look forward to the new year, what will be the biggest trends in life and home? We venture to make some predictions:

Green: not just a buzzword any more It seems like everyone has been jumping on the environmentally friendly bandwagon, but in 2010 we predict that this trend will gain some staying power. Adopting eco-friendly lifestyle choices like hybrid vehicles, renewable power, and energy-efficiency doesn’t just sound cool…it saves money, which means it fits perfectly into the more financially-conscious decade we’re entering. And maybe we’re biased, but we think our energy-efficient, green building techniques will withstand the test of time.

Kitchen as home So much of the life of a home is in the kitchen, and these cost-conscious times mean the kitchen will be a more important gathering place than ever. Look for increased emphasis on in-kitchen dining and functional, fun kitchens like the ones offered in our patio and townhomes.

Inside/outside We’re lucky enough to live surounded by some of the country’s most beautiful scenery. While interiors become more comfortable than ever, we predict a renewed emphasis on outdoor recreation in 2010. That means hiking, biking, and taking advantage of everything Boulder County has to offer.

Ready to invest in life and home in the new year? Click here to view our hot homes!