Saturday Reporter-Herald July 9, 2011 D1

www.reporterherald.com Saturday, July 9, 2011 Reporter-Herald• •

Closet RevampRemodel for more

closet space

DO M I N I QU E DEL GRO S S OFOR THE RE P O RT E R -HERALD

Imagine a spacious yet functionalspace that properly houses the lat-est clothing purchase. To most, a

big, organized closet would be adream come true.

Closets can sometimes have limitedspace, which makes organizing acramped task. Enlisting the servicesof a closet remodeling company is oneway to de-clutter and revamp any clos-et.

OUT WITH THE OLD

The essential first step to preparingfor a closet remodel is to carve outsome time and simply go through thecloset’s contents from top to bottom.Get rid of clothes, shoes, accessories,handbags and seasonal wear thathasn’t been worn in at least one year.Sometimes you don’t realize howmuch you have and how little it hasbeen used until the contents are gone

through piece by piece.Marty Wehr, owner of Closet and

Storage Concepts in Longmont, saidthat going through the closet’s con-tents and then organizing them bylifestyle first is a must-do. “If you’re agolfer, put those clothes together,” hesaid. “Before we come in and buildyour closet, put your clothes intofunctional sections or piles. Interactwith your closet, don’t wait for us.”

Organizing the contents of thecloset first will help you to identifywhat modifications need to be madeto the space based on the types ofclothing worn. If business attire isworn most frequently, higher hangingracks may be necessary to ensure thatclothes stay wrinkle-free and don’tdrag on the ground.

Going through the closet first willhelp in prioritizing what modifica-tions are most needed such as the ad-dition of drawers, higher hangingclothing racks or more shelving forstorage. It will also ensure that thespace is de-cluttered, making it possi-ble for the remodeler to enhance thecloset’s functionality.

PRICING, TIMING AND TRENDS

An in-home visit is scheduled soon

after the initial inquiry phone call ismade. At this appointment, the re-modeler will get a clear visual of thecloset in need of improvements,which will assist them in designing anexact layout. Then together with theowner, a functional floor plan is creat-ed.

Most closet remodels don’t requiregutting the space or surroundingwalls. Sometimes knocking down a

wall may be necessary if the space istoo small to make worthwhile im-provements, but not in most cases.Most companies will work within thecloset space provided, Wehr said.

The cost of the closet remodel is of-ten based on the materials used to re-model the space. This includes thetype of wood-grain selected, the num-ber of drawers installed, the additionof mirrors or decorative pieces and

additional accessory racks.“On average, a reach-in closet

ranges from $1,500 to $2,000 and awalk-in closet is $2,500 to $3,500,”Wehr said.

Generally, a closet remodel willtake no longer than five days, depend-ing on how much work is being done.“A typical walk-in closet will take oneto two days, but for the more in-depthprojects, it can take three days orlonger, especially if we’re redoing theflooring or something,” Wehr said.

Closet trends vary across the na-tion. All trends are influenced by thegeographic location and cost of mate-rials, Wehr said. So, the trends on theEast Cost will look different than onthe West Coast. “At least 70 percentof the closets we do in Colorado are inwood-grain,” he said.

LET THE EXPERTS LEAD

It’s common to be uncertain aboutwhat modifications are needed tomake the closet more functional. It’sOK to only have a general idea ofsome desired changes before calling aremodeling company, because leavingit to the experts to guide the processis welcomed. The experts can refigurethe space in ways you would have nev-er thought possible.

“We ’re the experts. Most peoplelook to us to make their closets morefunctional,” Wehr said. “They mayhave basic ideas, but we make it logis-tically happen and that’s our job.”

“At least 70 percent of the closetswe do in Colorado are in wood-grain.”

— Marty Wehr, owner of Closet and Storage Concepts in Longmont

Open Houses This Weekend - www.thegroupinc.com

TUESDAY & SUNDAY 1:00-4:004630 Tarragon Drive, Loveland NEW PATIO HOME MODEL INTHOMPSON CROSSING. Choice of 6 ranch plans, 3-car garageoptions, garden level lots, views, low HOA dues. Convenientlocation, yet tucked away. Enjoy the million $ sculpture walk,trail & easy access to I-25. Low maintenance living at its best!Base price shown.

$339,000MLS# 645384

Call Valerie Schlageter970-217-3464

SATURDAY 1:00-3:00749 W 11th Street, Loveland “Fixer- upper” in prime location,only one block from Lake Loveland and Dwayne WebsterPark. Ranch style with finished basement. 3 bedrooms, 1 ½baths, formal dining room, 2 car garage, large lot. This home hasgreat bones and potential. Being sold “as is”.

$165,000MLS# 654757

Call Mark Moran218-1891

SATURDAY & SUNDAY 12:00-5:007411 Pimlico Drive, Windsor Brand new, beautiful 3 bedroom,2 1/2 bath home with loft, 2 car garage, covered patio andbasement on oversized lot backing to open space. Our homesoffer incredible value with high quality and energy efficiency in aserene setting. Ask about our builder incentives. Prices startingat $239,900.

$239,900MLS# 647541

Call Kristen Specketer290-8097

SUNDAY 1:00-3:001506 Farmland Street, Loveland Beautiful universal ranchstyle home in Taft Farms. Open floor plan with great room,breakfast bar, and large kitchen. 36” doorways & hallways, ADAcompliant baths (can convert to normal bath), low rise showerstall, high rise toilets, roll-under sinks. Basement level withcaregiver/guest suite. Covered deck & entry.

$269,000MLS# 644880

Call John Simmons481-1250

SATURDAY & SUNDAY 12:00-3:004710 Georgetown Drive, Loveland Energy Star Rated!Designed & built with “synergy” for maximum living comfort.Slab granite countertops, multi-sided fireplace, vaulted ceilings,custom tile & hardwood floors. Upgraded kitchen w/gas range,built-in microwave, dishwasher & side-by-side refrigerator.Large bedroom & rec room in basement.

$348,865MLS# 646034

Call Tracy Wilson567-0907

3555 Capitol Peak Drive, Loveland Gorgeous ranch. Wood floorsin entry, kitchen & eating area. Alder cabinets. Butler pantry.Private master bedroom with walk-in closet & 5-piece bath.Unfinished garden level basement. Outdoor living includes largedeck, stamped concrete patio and gas line for BBQ.

$350,000MLS# 659371

Call Cindy Kurtz962-6832

AN EXCLUSIVE SERVICE OFTHE GROUP, INC. REAL ESTATE

Northern ColoradoReal Estate Source

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Northern Colorado

Real Estate Sourcew w w . t h e g r o u p i n c . c o m

SUNDAY 1:00-3:00110 Traders Lane, Milliken Pick your own fixtures, carpet &colors. Wonderful ranch style & 2-story home plans to choosefrom. Your choice of 3 great subdivision to live in – SettlersVillage – Colony Point or Centennial Farms. VALUE YOU CANSEE… QUALITY YOU CAN COUNT ON with a WINDMILLS HOME.Visit us at 110 Traders Lane in Settlers Village.

Prices starting in the $150’sMLS#

Call Tracy Wilson567-0907

NEW CONSTRUCTION

FRIDAY - SUNDAY 1:00-4:00292 Saratoga Drive, Windsor New Homes starting in$190,000s! Ranch & 2-story plans. Personalize your homefrom framing to finish! Miles of bike trails, open space & parks.Windmills sales office in Greenspire Sub located on SW cornerof Saratoga & Moonglow!

$242,900MLS# 643842

Call Kelli Couch310-8804

NEW HOMES!

SUNDAY 1:00-3:001541 Dryland Street, Loveland Great floor plan w/ full masterbath, 3 bd 2 ba, ranch styled home in North Loveland location.RV parking, oversized gar. Other floor plans and lots to choosefrom if this does not fit your needs. Contact listing agent for moredetails.

$293,500MLS# 641473

Call Stephanie Kirkland679-8084

SATURDAY & SUNDAY 1:00-3:001040 Wisteria Drive, Loveland 4 bedroom, 4 bath 2-story onhuge corner lot. Wood floors on main level. Upgraded cabinetsand new kitchen appliances. Vaulted ceilings, main level familyroom w/gas fireplace & built-ins. Bedroom, office & rec room inbasement. Retractable awning over large patio.

$279,900MLS# 639167

Call Diana Luthi481-2692

SUNDAY 1:00-3:004495 Ridgeway Drive, Loveland 5 bedroom, 3 bath, ranch stylehome. Kitchen features wood floors, granite counters, blackappliances, 43” cabinets, island & breakfast bar. Great room w/fireplace. Main level master. 2nd master suite w/5-piece bath,great room & mini kitchen in bsmt. Central air, 2 tankless hot waterheaters, high-efficiency furnace. Covered patio & huge deck.

$312,500MLS# 656603

Call John Simmons481-1250

UNDERCONTRACT

www.HomeStateBank.com(970) 203-6100

An FHA 203(k) mortgage allows you to finance both your homepurchase and renovation with a single loan. Call now to learn more.

Loans and rates subject to credit approval. FHA conditions and restrictions apply.

Vivian DeVoe, VP Mortgage Banker, 970-227-4702

Buying a home that needs work?Call the experts in FHA 203(k)renovation financing.

Think big Bank small

D2 Saturday Reporter-Herald July 9, 2 0 1 1

Mortgage rate update

30-year fixed15-year fixed

5/1 ARM

This week Last week Tre n d

4.55%

4.69%

3.13%

4.57%

4.73%

3.14%

Home & Real Estateis produced everySaturday by the

Loveland Reporter-Herald.

EDITORIAL INFORMATION635-3656

DISPLAY ADVERTISING669-5050

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING635-3650

For home and real estate advice,features and information, visit

www.homeandrealtyguide .com

Regional Snapshot for Loveland/Berthoud Residential

M a rch April M ay

Active Listings 960 966 1004Previous Year Active Listings 1099 1126 1117

Sold Listings 105 137 126

Median Sales Price $206,025 $212,500 $200,000Previous Year Median $234,500 $199,900 $214,500

Average Days on the Market 123 155 107Previous Year ADOM 126 119 118

Year to Date Listings Sold 258 395 521Previous Year YTD Listing Sold 263 401 559

ILY C E GLINKTRIBUNE MEDIA SE RV I C E S

Question: In the summer of2006, I bought a condo in LasVegas with a friend. At the

time, we were both successful onlinepoker players and we were spending alot of time in Las Vegas for live tourna-ments.

We put down 20 percent and tookout a traditional 30-year fixed ratemortgage. We were not reckless spec-ulators, though we’ve been called thatand it seems to be the category we’vebeen lumped in.

Three months after we bought ourcondo, the government restricted ac-cess to online poker and it becametougher to make money. Then the2008 financial collapse happened.

Our property lost 70 percent of itsvalue but we still made our payments.Our lenders would not entertain aloan modification or loan restructur-ing. We were often told they wouldn’teven speak to us before we startedmissing payments.

Now that online poker sites havebeen virtually shut down, my friendhas no income and mine is down sig-nificantly. We owe $200,000 on ourcondo but it’s barely worth $85,000.We could walk away, but my friend hasenough assets to cover the shortfall,so he would be on the hook. I do not.

It seems if you have any assets thebanks want you to exhaust all of them,while they weren’t forced to gobankrupt before the governmentbailed them out. I know it’s useless

complaining about the societal in-equities. I would just like to know ifit’s possible to do something thatworks for both sides.

For example, if the banks would refi-nance us at the current rates we’dsave about $500 per month. Themonthly costs are so great that if werented the condominium, the rentwould be a fraction of our costs.

Do you have any ideas for us?Answer: It’s unfortunate that your

condominium in Las Vegas isn’t yourprimary residence. While the optionsare limited even with primary resi-dences, some lenders, in limited cir-cumstances, are giving borrowers afew options to help them out.

But when I say limited circum-stances, you’d have a better chancebooking a free ticket with miles dur-ing peak periods than getting a lenderto help a homeowner that needs help.(But perhaps this is a betting man’sgame.)

In your case, the condominium isprobably considered either a secondhome or an investment property forthe two of you. As an investment prop-erty, the lenders areholding out for asmuch as they can pos-sible get.

As you have cometo realize, if you haveassets, the lender mayseek out those assetsif you try to walk awayfrom the property.

You could try toshort sell the proper-

ty and attempt to negotiate the shortsale with the lender with a limitedamount of cash to come to the clos-ing. For example, if you are able to sellthe unit for $85,000 now, you mightget the lender to agree to that salesprice if you and your friend add extramoney into the amount that thelender will receive.

I don’t know if your lender wouldagree to a short sale, but some lendersare willing to recognize the realities inthe market, especially in an area likeLas Vegas, where property prices con-tinue to decline.

If you are able to get a buyer for theunit, perhaps your lender will be will-ing to negotiate on the amount youneed to come to the closing with toget out of the deal. If not, you’re outof luck.

At that point, you and your partnerwill have to have a discussion aboutwhether to fold and walk away fromthis property and assume the riskthat the bank will collect whatever isowed on the debt directly from both ofyou.

Walking away is not advised in this caseH&

Real estate

Tr a n s a c t i o n sRE

� See Tr a n s a c t i o n s /Page D3

H& Real Estate MattersRE

Real Estate Transactions aresupplied by Prospects UnlimitedInc., 1151 Eagle Drive No. 467,Loveland, CO 80537, 667-1537.

L oveland• Tracy Meyer from Tate Be-

stor, 1821 W 11th St, Loveland,$145,000, home

• Dale & Tyce Morris fromChristine, 707 21st St Sw, Love-land, $150,000, home

• Rick & Joan Wilson fromFederal Home Ln MortgageCorp, 1036 Blue Spruce Dr,Loveland, $137,500, home

• Nicholas & Sharilyn Thomp-son from Michael Knee, 3020Blue Mountain Ct, Loveland,$478,000, home

• Jeremy Dejong from RleneMinnig, 914 Paloverde Dr, Love-land, $156,900, home

• Sherrie Bichlmeiermalaifrom Frank Bohe, 400 CardinalAve, Loveland, $180,000, home

• Crm LLC from Clinton Carl-son, 5 Gregg Dr, Loveland,$237,500, home

• Linda & Frederick Stechertfrom Rita Crose, 1014 RooseveltAve, Loveland, $154,900, home

• Rodney & Louisa Harris fromGRSW Stewart Real Estate Trust,8010 W County Road 24h, Love-land, $435,000, home

• Eugene & Laura Chan fromJacob Hartwick, 2325 Glade Rd,Loveland, $548,000, home

• Robert & Linda Palmer fromRobert Johnson, 1813 Del NorteAve, Loveland, $177,000, home

• Chase & Chelsea Gainesfrom Kiodamkee Properties LLC,1048 Big Thompson Rd, Love-

land, $118,000, home• Robert & Marjorie Johnson

from Peter Krump, 4880 Sheri-dan Ave, Loveland, $185,000,home

• Mark & Catherine Jorgensenfrom Lyle Lafferty, 4880 FilbertDr, Loveland, $200,000, home

• Resident Trust from LloydLudwig, 1816 Madison Ave,Loveland, $192,500, home

• Karen Sims from Marie Mac-cord, 1991 Grays Peak Dr Unit101, Loveland, $139,000, condo

• Eric & Angie Carman fromConnie Miller, 550 Radiant Dr,Loveland, $157,000, home

• Katelynn Knowles fromThomas Prinz, 912 N JeffersonAve, Loveland, $145,000, home

• Thomas & Esperanza Mc-corkendale from Todd Rich-mond, 4138 Independence Dr,Loveland, $285,000, home

• Intermountain LLC from S DProperties 1 LLC, 6379 RockwellCt, Loveland, $518,000, home

• Sarah Mulder from Gene Va-lenta, 112 Sunset Ct, Loveland,$178,000, home

• Kendra & Justin Mcgeheefrom Wells Fargo Bank, 855 Li-bra Ct, Loveland, $192,000,home

• David & Christina Wolfefrom Marc Young, 832 BlackMaple Dr, Loveland, $185,000,home

• Carol Gentry from HoneFamily Trust, 2629 Hartsel Ct,Loveland, $230,000, home

• Tim & Jerilyn Grove fromHarriette Florence Sparks Trust,

For more information, callGlink’s radio show at800-972-8255 on Sundaysfrom 9 to 10 a.m., write to RealEstate Matters Syndicate, P.O.Box 366, Glencoe, IL 60022 orvisit www.thinkglink.com.

Real Estate Matters

To add a listing or speak to an advertising representative,call the Reporter-Herald at 669-5050

For details about these open houses, see the ads in this section. For additional open houselistings, please check the “Real Estate Classifieds” section of this publication. This guide is

brought to you by the Daily Reporter-Herald, local real estate agents and area builders.

WWW.HOMEANDREALTYGUIDE.COM•CLICK ON OPEN HOUSE MAPS

saturday sundayPRICE LOCATION ADDRESS HRS OFFICE PHONE

FROM $140'S NW LOVELAND 43RD & WILSON AVE 12-5 COTTAGE REALTY 532-5900

$150'S-$220'S SE LOVELANDBOISE VILLAGE NORTH, ¼ MILE SOUTH OF HWY 34 ON N. BOISEAVENUE, 1899 E. 11TH

10-6 MIDTOWN HOMES 970-456-4600

$165,000 SW LOVELAND 749 W 11TH ST 1-3 THE GROUP, INC. 970-218-1891

$169,900 NW LOVELAND 4403 ELLIOT PLACE 12-5 COTTAGE REALTY 970-215-0515

$170,000 NE LOVELAND 1009 SHORTLEAF 2PM RE/MAX ALLIANCE 970-622-1846

$229,900 NE LOVELAND 3420 RED MAPLE CT 1-3 RE/MAX ADVANCED 970-227-0014

$239,000 NW LOVELAND 4496 HAYLER AVE 12-5 COTTAGE REALTY 970-532-5900

$239,900 WINDSOR 7411 PIMLICO DRIVE 12-5 THE GROUP, INC. 970-290-8097

$242,900 WINDSOR 292 SARATOGA DRIVE 1-4 THE GROUP, INC. 970-310-8804

$264,900 BERTHOUD COLLINS PARK SUBDIVISION 1-3 RE/MAX ALLIANCE 970-566-4627

$269,000 NW LOVELAND 1506 FARMLAND ST 1-3 THE GROUP, INC. 970-481-1250

$279,900 NE LOVELAND 1040 WISTERIA DR 1-3 THE GROUP, INC. 970-481-2692

$295,000 SE LOVELAND 1286 INCA DOVE 12-2 RE/MAX ALLIANCE 970-689-4824

$298,664 NW LOVELAND 4355 RIDGWAY DR 12-5 COTTAGE REALTY 970-532-5900

$299,900 NW LOVELAND 1920 NEW HAMPSHIRE ST 12-5 COTTAGE REALTY 970-227-3893

$323,400 SW LOVELAND¼ MILE WEST OF WILSON ON 14TH STREET SW / HWY 402 TOTHE DAKOTA GLEN SUBDIVISION

12-4GLEN MARKETING TEAM,ERA

970-663-4522

$339,000 SE LOVELAND 4630 TARRAGON DRIVE 1-4 THE GROUP, INC. 970-690-6011

$348,865 NW LOVELAND 4710 GEORGETOWN DRIVE 12-3 THE GROUP, INC. 970-567-0907

$379,000 JOHNSTOWN 27847 ARIKAREE RD 1:30-3:00 COLDWELL 970-396-9597

$389,750 SW LOVELAND 975 PRISM CACTUS CIRCLE 12-4GLEN MARKETING TEAM,ERA

970-663-4522

$495,000 SW LOVELAND 1012 WILLOWROCK 11-1 RE/MAX ALLIANCE 970-581-9005

$497,500 NE LOVELAND 4997 VALLEY OAK 1PM RE/MAX ALLIANCE 970-622-1846

$625,000 NE LOVELAND 3015 CHALLENGER 11-1 RE/MAX ALLIANCE 970-581-9005

$529,900 FORT COLLINS 1660 STREAMSIDE 11-1 RE/MAX ALLIANCE 970-581-9005

$639,900 WINDSOR 8427 SAND DOLLAR 11-1 RE/MAX ALLIANCE 970-581-9005

$669,900 FORT COLLINS 7860 EAGLE RANCH 11-1 RE/MAX ALLIANCE 970-581-9005

PRICE LOCATION ADDRESS HRS OFFICE PHONE

FROM $140'S NW LOVELAND 43RD & WILSON AVE 12-5 COTTAGE REALTY 970-532-5900

STARTING$150'S

MILLIKEN 110 TRADERS LANE 12-3 THE GROUP, INC. 970-567-0907

$150's-$220'S

SE LOVELANDBOISE VILLAGE NORTH, ¼ MILE SOUTH OFHWY 34 ON N. BOISE AVENUE, 1899 E. 11TH

10-6 MIDTOWN HOMES 970-456-4600

$169,900 NW LOVELAND 4403 ELLIOT PLACE 12-5 COTTAGE REALTY 970-215-0515

$220,000 SW LOVELAND 2820 LOTUS 12-2 RE/MAX ALLIANCE 970-622-1809

$239,000 NW LOVELAND 4496 HAYLER AVE 12-5 COTTAGE REALTY 970-532-5900

$239,900 WINDSOR 7411 PIMLICO DRIVE 12-5 THE GROUP, INC. 970-290-8097

$242,900 WINDSOR 292 SARATOGA DRIVE 1-4 THE GROUP, INC. 970-310-8804

$251,900 SW LOVELAND 227 JOHNSON 2-4 RE/MAX ALLIANCE 970-622-1809

$264,900 BERTHOUD COLLINS PARK SUBDIVISION 1-3 RE/MAX ALLIANCE 970-566-4627

$269,000 NW LOVELAND 1506 FARMLAND ST 1-3 THE GROUP, INC. 970-481-1250

$279,900 NE LOVELAND 1040 WISTERIA DR 1-3 THE GROUP, INC. 970-481-2692

$293,500 NW LOVELAND 1541 DRYLAND ST 1-3 THE GROUP, INC. 970679-8084

$298,664 NW LOVELAND 4355 RIDGWAY DR 12-5 COTTAGE REALTY 970-532-5900

$299,900 NW LOVELAND 1920 NEW HAMPSHIRE ST 12-5 COTTAGE REALTY 970-227-3893

$312,500 NW LOVELAND 4495 RIDGWAY DR 1-3 THE GROUP, INC. 970-481-1250

$323,400 SW LOVELAND¼ MILE WEST OF WILSON ON 14TH STREETSW / HWY 402 TO THE DAKOTA GLENSUBDIVISION

12-4GLEN MARKETINGTEAM, ERA

970-663-4522

$339,000 SE LOVELAND 4630 TARRAGON DRIVE 1-4 THE GROUP, INC. 970-690-6011

$348,865 NW LOVELAND 4710 GEORGETOWN DRIVE 12-3 THE GROUP, INC. 970-567-0907

$379,000 JOHNSTOWN 27847 ARIKAREE RD1:30-3:00

COLDWELL 970-396-9597

$389,750 SW LOVELAND 975 PRISM CACTUS CIRCLE 12-4GLEN MARKETINGTEAM, ERA

970-663-4522

Saturday Reporter-Herald July 9, 2011 D3

Tr a n s a c t i o n sFrom Page D2

3931 Lissa Dr, Loveland,$255,000, home

• David & Gail Hettingerfrom Myrna Vancamp, 2817W 13th St, Loveland,$185,000, home

• John Wilbanks fromDavid Wolfe, 914 BlackMaple Dr, Loveland,$167,500, home

Berthoud• Diane Brotemarkle from

Federal Home Ln MortgageCorp, 101 E Welch Ave,Berthoud, $146,300, home

• Darin & April Mock fromMartin Michel, 535 5th St,Berthoud, $450,000, home

• Carol Pratt from WitterFamily LLC, 4050 W CountyRoad 2, Berthoud, $750,000,home

Estes Park• Craig & Lorie Kramer

from James Daugherty, 1649Black Squirrel Dr, EstesPark, $304,000, home

• Ralph Bowle from LynnDuncan, 415 Pawnee Ln,Estes Park, $395,000, home

• Jeffrey & KimberlyMcreynolds from Henry Hart-man, 320 Fall River Ln, EstesPark, $297,500, home

• Joshua & Erinn Whartonfrom Nathan Knight, 2740Aspen Ln, Estes Park,$260,000, home

• Janie Rinella from DianeLyngholm, 220 Lott St,Estes Park, $230,000, home

• Gary & Lois Steed fromRichard Voegtle, 1268Strong Ave, Estes Park,$263,900, home

Johnstown• Jaren Harris from Fannie

Mae, 142 Becker Cir, John-stown, $185,000, home

• Stephan Pomeroy fromPaul Stecina, 1907 GreenWing Dr, Johnstown,$229,500, home

• Jack & Maxine Carterfrom Oakwood Homes LLC,3853 Hunterwood Ln, John-

stown, $218,900, home• Richard Smith from

Bankunited, 424 Frontier Ln,Johnstown, $155,000, home

• Laura Miller from CacheBank Trust, 4807 TarragonDr, Johnstown, $350,000,home

• Linco LLC from ForestarUsa Real Estate Gropu, 462Castle Pines Ave, Johnstown,$127,000, home

• Shaun Singer from Gra-ham Lief, 945 N 7th St,Johnstown, $195,000, home

• Bobby & Raquel Mulkeyfrom Greg Spaur, 6638 WeldCounty Road 38, Johnstown,$430,000, home

M i l l i ke n• Robert & Sheri Kibler

from James Schultz, 2333Carriage Dr, Milliken,$220,000, home

Windsor• Aaron Laube from Jerry

Gray, 250 Opal Ct, Windsor,$169,200, home

• Mccauley LLC from Son-dra County, 723 PonderosaDr, Windsor, $156,000,home

• Edward Schappell fromSusan Bacher, 6577 SpanishBay Dr, Windsor, $555,000,home

• Joshua & Natalie Fowlerfrom Steven Harper, 4661Haystack Dr, Windsor,$487,000, home

• Douglas & AngeliqueHartman from BrentHofmeister, 7028 RuidosoDr, Windsor, $475,000,home

• Homes Inc from KemHomes Construction Inc,7350 Spanish Bay Dr, Wind-sor, $250,000, home

• Matthew & Lindsey Liv-ingston from Melanie Seitz,5514 Flamboro Dr, Windsor,$390,900, home

OPEN Sunday 11-1, 2+Acre Lake front& horse lots starting $225,000 water tapincluded. Surface rights, walk paths, parks,boat docks, fishing and peace garden.

Warberg Farm at Chapman Reservoir

SALES OFFICE OPEN SUNDAY 11-1

Kurt AlbersCentury 21 Humpal, Inc.970-231-1224Kurt.Albers@century21.comwww.warbergfarmatchapmanreservoir.com

Fantastic ranch style home with 960 Sq Ftheated 3 car garage/shop with electricity andadditional carport that could be enclosed.Great wood deck w/hot tub. MLS#647171$211,900

1612 E. 1st Street, Loveland

OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY 11-1

Century 21 Humpal, IncUrsula Albers970-231-0548Ursula.Albers@century21.com

New Construction, 4 Great floorplans and20+ lots to choose from, all customizeable.Prices starting in the mid $190’s. Easy accessto Loveland, Fort Collins - Longmont & I-25.

Peakview Meadows, Berthoud

OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY 11-2

Kurt AlbersCentury 21 Humpal, Inc970-231-1224Kurt.Albers@century21.comwww.berthoud.org

Great 1 acre property in Indianhead Estateson corner lot with 3 car attached garagePLUS separate 2 car/shop! Room for yourRV’s! Like new home. $379,000.

27847 Arikaree Rd

OPEN HOUSE SAT. & SUN. 1:30-3:00 PM

Maurine GarretsonColdwell Banker Plains Real Estate, Inc.970-396-9597maurinegar@aol.comwww.coldwellbanker.com/local/plains

FREE FRONT YARD LANDSCAPING W/SPRINKLER SYSTEM! Gourmet kitchenw/granite countertops & center island.Wood floors. Master w/5 pc bath. A/C. Fullunfin bsmnt & 3-car garage on corner lot.$299,900

1920 New Hampshire St. LovelandKENDALL BROOK SUBDIVISION

OPEN HOUSE SAT. & SUN. 12-5 PM

Connie SalazarCottage Realty970-227-3893www.lovelandcorealestate.com

FEATURED PROPERTIESFEATURED PROPERTIES$300,000 - $399,999$300,000 - $399,999

$200,000 - $299,999$200,000 - $299,999

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Cute as a button 4 bd, 3 bth a/c tri-level withlake & mtn views. Remodeled Country Frenchkitchen, granite, new white trim & flooring,new furnace, 484 sf epoxy flrd gar, gardens,fruit trees, $229,900

3420 Red Maple Ct. NE Loveland

OPEN HOUSE SAT. & SUN. 1-3

Sandy LeeRE/MAX Advanced, Inc.970-227-0014sandylee@frii.com

UP TO $199,999UP TO $199,999

D4 Saturday Reporter-Herald July 9, 2 0 1 1

CA RO L O'MEARACSU EXTENSION

It’s pretty bad when youhave to don protective gearin order to mow the lawn. I

discovered this over a longweekend, when I decided togroom the yard. We hadstopped watering the back

lawn over a year ago becauseof a broken irrigation system,and, as an experiment straightout of “America’s ToughestTu r f g r a s s , ” have been watch-ing in amazement as differentspecies of turf battle forsupremacy in a low-water land-scape.

I had thought that the buffa-lo grass was going to win, and

that’s still where my money is.Buffalo grass is an excellentlow-water, low-maintenancegrass that is steadily creepingacross the backyard in itsquest for dominance. It’s won-derful from a maintenanceperspective, since it doesn’tlike fertilization, isn’t suscepti-ble to many diseases that pres-sure other grasses, and cantake a complete lack of inter-est by the homeowner.

The Bluegrass, however, isproving to be a scrappy con-tender, and isn’t going downwithout a fight. Over and overthe turf gurus have been say-ing that bluegrass is an excel-lent grass for droughty times,

and I must admit I am now abeliever. After a season of onlynatural rainfall, it was on theropes late last summer when alarge gathering of peoplescuffed the dry lawn to bits.Traffic over a drought-stressedlawn is a major contributor tothe grass’s destruction, andshould be avoided if possible.

Imagine how astonished we(and the buffalo grass) are tofind that the bluegrass hasmade a dramatic comebackthis season with a little atten-tion and rain. The gurus areright in saying that the topgrowth of bluegrass goes dor-mant in heat and dry condi-tions, but what makes it an ex-cellent choice for drought isthat the roots live on, and will

recover oncecooler weatherarrives and a lit-tle moisture isgiven to it.

Right now it’sin that clumpstage which sig-nals that grass isunder, or isemerging from,drought stress.Rather thanforming a plush carpet overthe lawn surface, grass willthin to small, distinct clumpsin dry areas. This tell-taleclumping should help home-owners spot dry areas in theirlawn, typically where their irri-gation is under-performing.

Experts estimate that 80percent of lawn problems arecaused by irrigation problems.This is somewhat difficult formany folks to accept whenthey look at the water flyingeverywhere while the sprin-klers are on. Here are somequick tips for trouble shootingthe problem:

• Check the soil by pushinga slender screwdriver into theground around the yard. If itslides in easily in the green ar-eas but not in the brown, wa-ter is not getting to the lawnevenly and the browned areaslack water.

• In places where the screw-driver test told you the groundis dry, turn the sprinkler sys-tem on to check the coverage.The easiest problem to ruleout is heads that aren’t operat-ing or don’t pop up fully.

• If all heads are working,kneel down behind them asthey operate and look closelyat where the droplets are go-ing. Water should fall evenlyacross the area without over-throwing the brown zone, orunder throwing, which leavesdry centers in the yard, andthe throw should reach nearbysprinklers. This head-to-headcoverage is critical to gettingenough water on the grass.

• Make sure the head is lev-el. If it’s slightly tilted, don’tworry — most systems are in-stalled with flexible ‘funnypipe’ that allows for small,quick adjustments. Just dig abit of soil out from one sideand pack in it against the headon the opposite side to level it.Larger fixes may require dig-ging up the pipe or hiring asprinkler company.

Bluegrass goes dormant inhot weather if water is limitedand may not green back upwhen your irrigation is fixed.Water it normally to keep thecrowns and roots alive and itwill revive once cooler weathersets in.

Brown lawnbl u e s

Carol O’Meara is withCSU Extension inBoulder County.Contact her at303-678-6238 orcomeara@co. b o u l d e r. c o . u s .

H& Front Range GardeningRE

Front Range Gardening

NEW NORTHERN COLORADO HOMES

17-326536

� $3,000 BUYER CREDIT

MONTHLY PAYMENTS

� STARTING AT $999� OVER �� MODELS

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GREAT VALUE

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NEW HOMES

FROM

$159,900 - $229,900

Sales Office Open 10-6 Daily1899 East 11th Street, Loveland, CO 80537

Phone: (970) 456-4600info@newmidtownhomes.comwww.newmidtownhomes.com

FHAApproved Community

Loveland, Colorado

OPEN SAT & SUN 12-5

4496 Hayler Avenue, Loveland4403 Elliot Place, Loveland

970-532-5900(*w/ qualifying special financing)

FROM THE $140’S* TO $350’SEnchantment Ridge

� 5 piece baths / � 4 car garages� Privacy fencing / � Ranch / 2-Stories

� Built Green / � Energy Star� Immediate Possession

**With purchase & closing of home - Offer Expires 6/30/11

NW Corner of Wilson & 43rd St.

$2,500 IN FREE OPTIONSTHIS MONTH**

A beautiful new homecommunity in the Rocky

Mountain FoothillsCome our for a visit -

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For more info: John Mathey 970.481.5512e-mail: info@pittingtonranch.com

Model Home Open Sat & Sun 1-4

OPEN SAT & SUN 12-5

4496 Hayler Avenue, Loveland4403 Elliot Place, Loveland

970-532-5900(*w/ qualifying special financing)

FROM THE $140’S* TO $350’SEnchantment Ridge

• 5 piece baths / • 4 car garages• Privacy fencing / • Ranch / 2-Stories

• Built Green / • Energy Star• Immediate Possession

**$4,400 in The Cottages. With purchase & closing of home - Offer Expires 7/31/11

NW Corner of Wilson & 43rd St.

FROM THE $140’S* TO $350’S

$6,000 BUILDER INCENTIVE000 BUILDER INCENTTHIS MONTH**