2020 Coronavirus Pandemic : Impact of Covid-19 on Colorado's Real Estate Market + resources to help you stay informed, occupied/entertained at home and well-nourished as you self-quarantine

As the world continues to cope with the 2020 Coronavirus Pandemic and local, state and federal officials are slowly starting to reopen businesses, life as we knew it in early March is now starting to return to 'normal' as restaurants, theaters, gyms, coffeehouses, bars and casinos begin opening their doors with limited capacity and allow patrons inside on a limited basis.

Below is a list of resources below that will help you stay informed, occupied/entertained at home and well-nourished as many of our citizens patiently wait to find out when they can return to work or at least get back on the payroll. Unemployment skyrocketed nationwide as many were either laid off, furloughed or terminated. Hang in there folks, we will bounce back and get through this together. If you have any needs outside of housing, 'Just Call Ants' and I will do whatever I can to assist my community. Stay safe and God Bless! -ants

COVID-19 and the impact on Colorado's Real Estate Special COVID-19 Edition DMAR Market Reports :: June 2020 - Market Statistics :: May 2020 - Market Statistics :: April 2020 - Market Statistics :: March 2020 - Market Statistics :: City & County Reports :: Denver Market Statistics	UPDATED JUNE 17, 2020 :: Buying or Selling a Home during the Statewide 'Safer-at-Home' Orders :: While the number of homes sold was down significantly in May, new listings and homes under contract surged. As stay-at-home restrictions stemming from the coronavirus loosened on May 9 and businesses began phased openings in May, metro Denver had a surge of new listings hit the housing market, up 56.44 percent month over month to reach 7,312. Despite only 3,152 homes sold in May, down 19.71 percent month over month and 48.86 percent year over year, homes under contract increased a substantial 114.86 percent from the previous month. There were 7,170 active listings at the end of May, 4.6 percent more than April but 19.36 percent less than the previous year when there were 8,891. Home sellers had the upper hand with low inventory in all price ranges except for homes priced over $1 million, where there was 9.5 months of single-family luxury home inventory and an abundance of condos for sale, with more than 25 months of inventory. Anything over six months is considered a buyer’s market. As expected, the number of sold homes was down in May following the weeks of strict home-showing restrictions, dropping 19.71 percent month over month and 48.86 percent year over year. The average sold price of a home dropped slightly, back below $500,000 to $495,925. That was 1.24 percent lower than April but 2.43 percent higher year to date. The DMAR monthly report also includes statistics and analyses in its supplemental “Luxury Market Report” (properties sold for $1 million or greater), “Signature Market Report” (properties sold between $750,000 and $999,999), “Premier Market Report” (properties sold between $500,000 and $749,999), and “Classic Market” (properties sold between $300,000 and $499,999). In May 2020, 115 homes sold and closed for $1 million or greater, down 28.57 percent from April and 59.22 percent year over year. The closed dollar volume in the luxury segment in May was $174.4 million, down 24.43 percent from April and nearly 60 percent year over year. In May, there were 569 new listings priced over $1 million on the market. That is up 116.35 percent compared to the previous month and up 16.6 percent from last year at this time. Pending contracts were notably up somewhat proportional to the active listings, up 145.6 percent compared to last month and up 8.87 percent compared to last year. This shows that supply and demand were staying relative to each other. Having said that, the number of homes sold last month was down drastically; reflecting that two months ago, demand had decreased substantially. There were 1,899 new listings year to date, which is consistent with last year. The last few months were slower stemming from the pandemic which reflects how hot the metro-Denver real estate market was at the beginning of the year. There have been 755 closed properties in the over $1 million price segment through May. Notably, the close price has decreased to 96.97 percent of the list price - reflecting the lowest ratio since 2016. City and County Real Estate Market Reports Denver Colorado Real Estate Market Statistics & Trends Reports - Main Index June 2020 - Denver Colorado Real Estate Market Statistics & Trends Report May 2020 - Denver Colorado Real Estate Market Statistics & Trends Report April 2020 - Denver Colorado Real Estate Market Statistics & Trends Report March 2020 - Denver Colorado Real Estate Market Statistics & Trends Report
COVID-19 and the impact on Colorado's real Estate Buying or Selling a Home during the Statewide 'Stay-at-Home' and 'Safer-at-Home' Orders	UPDATED APRIL 27, 2020 Colorado has been doing a great job following the Stay-at-Home order, and we must keep it up. The virus is still present in Colorado and can re-surge at any time. Everyone needs to do their part for themselves, their loved ones, and our community. We have a responsibility to ourselves and to each other to protect our state and our community. Right now, we are in Level 2: 'Safer at Home'. Coloradans are no longer ordered to stay home, but are strongly advised to stay at home. Critical businesses are open and non-critical businesses are operating with restrictions. People should be prepared for state and local public health orders to be extended, amended, or changed as needed to protect public health. This means we may move between the different levels during this pandemic. In Colorado, local governments can choose to have different rules from the state in a few circumstances. Information on local public health orders Local governments can choose to enact stricter guidance than the state - like extending the Stay-at-Home order within the local government’s jurisdiction. Information on variances Counties may seek a variance from the state’s “Safer-at-Home” public health order. Variances are generally less strict than the state’s order. Effective April 27th we are once again allowed to start showing homes. Below outlines the way we will be handling showings with our buyers: We allow no more than 3 individuals at a showing (two buyers + me). No children please. Showings will be limted to those who will sign the contract. We will meet at the property. We will not be carpooling at this time. We require that everyone practices strict social distancing rules. Showings will be no more than 30 minutes and staggered to prevent overlap with another party. We will be limiting the number of homes you are scheduled to view in a day (tbd). Everyone will be required to wear a mask. We will have hand sanitizer and wipes available. Please do not touch anything in the home. We will be obeying all requests by the Seller/Listing Agent for protocol/screening. Any occupants (tenants or sellers) will not be asked to leave during an appointment. We will wipe down all surfaces we’ve touched (front door handle, lock box etc.) prior to leaving. You will be required to complete a Health Questionnaire for each individual and each property. For Sellers, we have adopted safety protocols designed to give peace of mind. Prior to entering your property, any Broker must fill out a form confirming they have reviewed a 4-question Health Questionnaire with their Buyer(s) and/or Buyer(s) guests(s) as well the Broker themself. I will present all of the docs prior to our initial meeting. Additionally, photogrphers, inspectors and appraisers will be asked to complete the Health Questionnaire. We will keep a journal of all parties accessing the property from the listing date through closing in case we need to cooperate with local health experts to identify contract tracing. UPDATED APRIL 22, 2020 Based on Governor Polis' announcement that becomes effective on April 27th, real estate agents: Will be allowed to show properties in-person RE/MAX Alliance will be revising their company policy for best practices moving forward I will post another update in the nex few days... Monday, April 20th Colorado Governor Jared Polis announced that some businesses such as hair salons can start to reopen as long as they adhere to safe Covid-19 recommendations and safe self-distancing and cleaning practices effective this coming week. Since Real Estate is deemed an "essential business', the Governor's office will start allowing real estate agents to show properties in-person again. We will be taking precautions to promote the safety and well-being of all parties. More information coming soon, but if you want or need to see a property, please call me to discuss. UPDATED MARCH 16, 2020 Real Estate is considered an “Essential Business” in the Governor’s Stay at Home order and we take this very seriously. This is not business as usual and safety is our top priority for our clients and ourselves. While I am still assisting buyers and sellers who require urgent services during this difficult time, we are taking several precautions. This is an ogoing and fluid situation, so I wil continue posting updates here so potential buyers and sellers understands what we can and cannot do during this challenging time. On April 2nd, the Department of Regulatory Affairs (DORA) issued a statement clearly identifying what essential means to Colorado Realtors and real estate agents. According to DORA, "real estate appraisals and closings are considered critical services to complete real estate transactions. Home inspections and final walkthroughs after a buyer has signed a purchase contract, and is therefore a condition precedent to the actual transfer of property, is also considered to be an essential part of the real estate transaction. Elements that are fundamental to the real estate transaction are deemed essential to support market activity. However, showing a property or conducting an open house in-person during the COVID-19 pandemic shall be avoided as it violates the specific mandates of recently issued executive and public health orders." Until further notice, this is our company policy: We will not show properties in-person (forbidden per governors order) We will not conduct public open houses We will take steps to create enhanced virtual open houses and answer qustions We will not accompany vendors who create videos or virtual tours We will not accompany or meet up with home inspector or appraisers We will continue with practices that are inherent to the transaction after a contract is secured; this would include Inspections and walk throughs. We will virtually meet with Sellers to agree on listing and buying plans to pursue as the order is lifted (facetime and zoom are great options). Have questions? I have been working from home since early March and am able to conduct my real estate business from my fully-equipped home office. I am in constant contact with my mortgage lenders, title companies and trades who are also considered "essential". While I understand that buying or selling a home may not be the biggest priority in life at this time, just know that I am available to you 24/7 via phone, email or text so please do not hesitate to reach out if you need anything. If you are unable to get out and/or run low on groceries or essential items, I have access to many hard-to-find items and am happy to share what I have or pickup/order whatever you need. Call Ants: 303.520.3179
March 2020 (archived messages)	As the world copes with the 2020 Coronavirus Outbreak/Pandemic and local, state and federal officials are pretty much shutting down everyday life as we know it, it's absolutely essential to stay informed, occupied and well-nourished. On Monday, March 16th Colorado Governor Jared Polis announced that all on-site dining will be prohibited at restaurants and bars in Colorado through April 30th (subject to change). The restrictions are part of an effort to slow the spread of the coronavirus. Drive-thru, take-out and delivery services will still be permitted (resources listed below). The statewide order will remain in effect through at least April 30th (*subject to change). The governor has also ordered gyms, theaters (movie and performance), breweries, coffeehouses and casinos closed, but Real Estate is deemed an "essential business'.
March 2020 (archived messages)	As the world copes with the 2020 Coronavirus Outbreak/Pandemic and local, state and federal officials are pretty much shutting down everyday life as we know it, it's absolutely essential to stay informed, occupied and well-nourished. On Monday, March 16th Colorado Governor Jared Polis announced that all on-site dining will be prohibited at restaurants and bars in Colorado through April 30th (subject to change). The restrictions are part of an effort to slow the spread of the coronavirus. Drive-thru, take-out and delivery services will still be permitted (resources listed below). The statewide order will remain in effect through at least April 30th (*subject to change). The governor has also ordered gyms, theaters (movie and performance), breweries, coffeehouses and casinos closed, but Real Estate is deemed an "essential business'.
IRS Tax Info and Coronavirus Tax Relief Tax Deadline Extended to July 15, 2020	Economic Impact Payments: Tax filers with adjusted gross income up to $75,000 for individuals and up to $150,000 for married couples filing joint returns will receive the full payment. For filers with income above those amounts, the payment amount is reduced by $5 for each $100 above the $75,000/$150,000 thresholds. Single filers with income exceeding $99,000 and $198,000 for joint filers with no children are not eligible. Social Security recipients and railroad retirees who are otherwise not required to file a tax return are also eligible and will not be required to file a return. Eligible taxpayers who filed tax returns for either 2019 or 2018 will automatically receive an economic impact payment of up to $1,200 for individuals or $2,400 for married couples and up to $500 for each qualifying child. Everything you need to know from the IRS & United States Treasury Dept Where's My Refund? Check your refund status directly with the Internal Revenue Service IRS2Go mobile app: Check your refund status & find free tax preparation assistance IR-2020-64: IRS issues warning about Coronavirus-related scams! Treasury News: Social Security Recipients Will Automatically Receive Economic Impact Payments IR-2020-62: Employee Retention Credit available for many businesses financially impacted by COVID-19
Coronavirus / COVID-19 Information:	Centers for Disease Control (CDC): Fact-based information relating to the COVID-19 pandemic CDC: The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to COVID-19 UC Health: Five simple ways to reduce coronavirus anxiety Coronavirus Shopping List: Essential quarantine items 10 Tips For Preparing To Stay At Home Due To The Coronavirus
Grocery Delivery:	King Soopers: Pickup (same day); Delivery (within hours); Ship (1-3 days) Safeway: Pickup, Delivery or Order Online (Get $20 off first order w/ Drive Up & Go use Code SAVE20) Costco Grocery: Same-Day Delivery or 2-Day Shipping Sams Club: Order online and get groceries from Sam's Club delivered in one hour or less!
Food/Meal Delivery Options:	DoorDash: Order Today & Enjoy $0 Delivery Fees for the 1st Month. Less Than 1hr Delivery Grubhub: Free delivery in Denver for new diners Postmates: Use code SAVE100 for $100 in delivery fee credit on any order, from any restaurant Uber Eats: FREE Delivery from many local restaurants FREE DELIVERY at these Local Denver area Restaurants Tips for staying safe while ordering food delivery during the coronavirus outbreak Best Meal Delivery Services: Flexible, healthy meal plans Where children can get meals while Colorado schools are closed due to coronavirus
Keeping Busy:	MUSICALS 11 Musical TV Shows to Binge While Self-Quarantined During the Coronavirus Outbreak 12 Famous Museums Offer Virtual Tours You Can Take on Your Couch BroadwayHD Is Letting You Watch Your Favorite Musicals For Free ACTIVITIES 50 fun activities to help keep your kids busy during the coronavirus outbreak A survival guide for parents who are home with their children during the quarantine Keeping Busy In Quarantine Keeping busy during the Coronavirus epidemic Spring Break amid COVID: Celebrating Safely in 2021 FOR TEACHERS FREE Video Email for Teachers offered by BombBomb Provide feedback & guidance to your students when you can't be there in person MUSIC Rita Wilson's 'Quantunes' playlist on Spotify READING NYTimes: What to Watch, Listen to and Cook During Your Coronavirus Self-Quarantine A Letter to Teachers During COVID-19 PHOTOGRAPHY NASA Makes their entire media library publicly accessible and copyright free New York Public Library: Download over 300,000 books from the NYPL for FREE
Jobs & Employment	KDVR Fox31 : Looking for work during the pandemic? These places are hiring
Utilities	Xcel Energy’s response to COVID-19 Xcel Energy will not disconnect service to any residential customers until further notice. If you have difficulty paying your bill, contact us and we will arrange a payment. Comcast offering FREE broadband to low-income households Comcast is also offering 60 days of free Internet service to low-income households Denver Water will not disconnect service during the quarantine - read more Offering payment plans, waiving late fees, delaying water turn-offs
State of Colorado Suggestions	Looking for things to do that don’t involve being around large groups of people? Luckily, we live in the best state in the country with great weather year-round. Here are a few suggestions if you’re looking to get outside, but still keep our communities safe.
Misc. News	Grocery Stores Hours for People Age 60 and over
Cooking at Home	Recipes from my 'American Lifestyle' Magazine I'm excited for the opportuity to share a library of recipes from my 'American Lifestyle' magazine. You don't have to be a gourmet chef to prepare these quick and easy meals or treats and yes...even some fun & delicious cocktails. Some of the categories include: Appetizers \| Breakfast \| Cooking Tips \| Desserts \| Dinner \| Gluten-Free \| Healthy \| Quick & Easy \| Vegan \| Vegetarian. I sincerely hope you enjoy the recipes!

2020 Coronavirus Outbreak : Stay Clean : DMAR