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Author: Leslie Beck

With over a decade of experience, Leslie leads Lark Realty Group with a focus on client-centric service and community involvement in Denver's real estate market.

A Look Back at Our Enchanting Evening of Croquet at Wash Park: Celebrating Community and Philanthropy

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We recently had the pleasure of hosting an unforgettable Ladies’ Night Out at the Denver Croquet Club in the scenic Wash Park, and what an evening it was! As the broker and owner of Lark Realty Group, I am filled with gratitude for the wonderful community that came together to share smiles, laughter, and a few croquet swings.

A Night to Remember with the Ladies of Wash Park

Croquet Under the Stars

The event, held on August 23rd, was a delightful gathering of clients, friends, and community members, all coming together to enjoy a splendid evening. James Creasey, the president of the Denver Croquet Club and CEO of Jiminy Wicket, led us in a fun-filled croquet lesson, catering to both beginners and seasoned players. The joy of learning and playing together in the beautiful Wash Park setting was truly special.

Delicacies and Conversations

Following the croquet lesson, we indulged in an array of tasty nibbles and refreshing drinks, perfect for a summer evening. The conversations flowed as easily as the drinks, fostering new friendships and strengthening our community bonds.

Supporting a Great Cause

Making a Difference with Jiminy Wicket

One of the highlights of the evening was knowing that our enjoyment contributed to a meaningful cause. The proceeds from our Ladies’ Night Out were donated to Jiminy Wicket, supporting their fantastic work with the Special Olympics. It was a privilege to combine fun and philanthropy, making our smiles even brighter.

Gratitude and Looking Forward

Thank You for Your Support

I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated in this wonderful event. Your presence, enthusiasm, and generosity made the evening truly memorable. A special thank you to James Creasey for sharing his passion for croquet and enriching our experience.

Embracing Our Community

This event was a testament to the strength and warmth of our community. At LCK Realty Group, we are more than just a real estate firm; we are a family that believes in giving back, fostering connections, and creating joyous moments together.

As we look back on this enchanting evening, we are reminded of the beauty of coming together, sharing experiences, and supporting each other. Stay tuned for more events and opportunities to connect, learn, and give back with LCK Realty Group. Here’s to many more memorable moments ahead!

9857 Isabel Court

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Welcome to this beautiful luxury home located in the highly coveted Mansion Hills community of Highlands Ranch. Offering breathtaking views and ample open space, this residence is a true gem. As you step inside, you are greeted by soaring ceilings and walls of windows providing an abundance of natural light, a main floor office, and a family room featuring a cozy fireplace accented with a brick wall and custom built-in shelves, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for relaxation and entertainment. For formal entertaining, the elegant dining room showcases a coffered ceiling, adding a touch of sophistication. The newly remodeled kitchen is a culinary enthusiast’s dream, featuring ample cabinets, Caesarstone countertops, a large island, and an eat-in kitchen. Prepare to be inspired as you cook and entertain in this remarkable space that overlooks the majestic Rocky Mountains. Ascend the dramatic staircase to the upper level, where the primary suite awaits. This luxurious retreat includes a sitting room, a gas fireplace, and a private balcony, allowing you to unwind and watch the sunset. Three additional bedrooms, are upstairs. One with an ensuite the others with a Jack and Jill bathroom, ensuring privacy and comfort for family members and guests alike. One of the desirable features of this property is the walkout basement, leading to an expansive backyard. As you step outside, you are greeted by sweeping city and mountain views, creating a picturesque backdrop for outdoor living and entertaining. Whether you envision hosting grand gatherings or simply enjoying tranquil moments in nature, this backyard is a true oasis. Don’t miss the opportunity to make this exquisite property your new home.

Leslie’s Chat with a Local Small Business Owner

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We sat down with Erika Becker, licensed acupuncturist and owner of Koselig Acupuncture located in Greenwood Village, to talk about Chinese medicine, herbs and entrepreneurship.

Walking into her office you can’t help but notice the ethereal and inviting ambiance with star-shaped light fixtures, soothing wall colors and trickling water. In fact, her business name encapsulates that feeling…. Koselig is a Norwegian word that loosely translates to mean a feeling of coziness, happiness and contentment. The feeling she hopes her patients feel after finishing a treatment with her.

Erika has a background in the medical field with western medicine, but after having s series of illnesses with the solution always coming in the form of medications and prescriptions, she decided that was not acceptable, so she became her own advocate and began studying the benefits of herbs. She found relief and success with that approach which then lead her to go a step further and visit a traditional acupuncture school – that was it… she immediately felt at home there and decided to begin her journey in Chinese medicine.

Coming from a family of entrepreneurs, she felt that, although scary and risky, she wanted to open her own practice and become a small business owner. Becker says “If you are thinking about your passion and a business all of the time, you need to do it… but also know that it is OK to be afraid and cry sometimes.” No doubt her patients are happy that she took the leap into an industry that can provide relief and healing from many ailments.

Erika Becker has her Master’s of Science in Traditional Chinese Medicine and is a licensed acupuncturist in Colorado since 2019. She began her acupuncture education in Minnesota at Northwestern Health Sciences University, and graduated from Colorado School of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Denver, Colorado. Her education consists of 3,030 classroom hours, 645 Acupuncture clinical hours, and 180 Chinese Herbal clinical hours. Erika has obtained Diplomate credentials by meeting national requirements set by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture. Erika has also completed her certification in Functional Medicine in 2020 through Functional Medicine University.

Koselig Acupuncture provides services in Chinese Herbal Medicine, Acupuncture, Cupping, Functional Medicine and Cosmetic Treatments. To learn more, visit https://www.koseligacu.com/

To schedule an appointment with Erika, use the code Move Your Chi for 10% off your initial consultation.

6075 S Quebec St, Ste 102
Centennial, CO 80111
www.koseligacu.com
720.432.1519,br>erika@koseligacu.com

11812 W Lake Avenue

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Welcome to this charming bi-level home where comfort and style meet in perfect harmony Step inside and you’re greeted by the inviting ambiance of freshly painted walls, natural light pouring though the skylights, and open concept living. Hosting gatherings is an absolute delight in this home as it features a spacious deck and backyard overlooking a greenbelt. Whether you’re enjoying a barbecue with friends or simply savoring a peaceful evening under the stars, this outdoor oasis provides the perfect backdrop for your entertainment needs. The kitchen is updated with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and ample storage space. This home includes not one, but two fireplaces with stone facades, offering cozy warmth during the cooler months. Curl up with a good book by the fireside or gather around with friends and family for engaging conversations. On the main level you will find two bedrooms and a full bath. The lower level features an additional bedroom and another full bath, offering flexibility for various living arrangements or a private retreat for guests. Whether you’re in the mood for shopping, dining at local restaurants, exploring nearby parks, or enjoying recreational facilities, everything is conveniently within reach. Additionally, with easy access to highway 470, you can quickly get to our beautiful mountains, opening up a world of possibilities for outdoor enthusiasts. Embrace a lifestyle filled with endless opportunities for adventure and leisure right at your doorstep.

The Recent Drop In Homeowner Equity

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You may see media coverage talking about a drop in homeowner equity. What’s important to understand is that equity is tied closely to home values. So, when home prices appreciate, you can expect equity to grow. And when home prices decline, equity does too. Here’s how this has played out recently. 

Home prices rose rapidly during the ‘unicorn years’. That gave homeowners a considerable equity boost. But those ‘unicorn’ years couldn’t last forever. The market had to moderate at some point, and that’s what we saw last fall and winter. 

As home prices dropped slightly in the back half of 2022, equity was impacted. Based on the most recent report from CoreLogic, there was a 0.7% dip in homeowner equity over the last year. However, the headlines reporting on that change aren’t painting the whole picture. The reality is, while home price depreciation during the second half of last year caused equity to drop, the data shows homeowners still have near record amounts of equity. 

The graph below helps illustrate this point by looking at the total amount of tappable equity in this country going all the way back to 2005. Tappable equity is the amount of equity available for homeowners to access before hitting a maximum 80% loan-to-value ratio (LTV). As the data shows, there was a significant equity boost during the ‘unicorn’ years as home prices rapidly appreciated (see the pink in the graph below).

But here’s what’s key to realize – even though there’s been a small dip, total homeowner equity is still much higher than it was before the ‘unicorn’ years.

And there’s more good news. Recent home price reports show the worst home price declines are behind us, and prices have started to go up again. As Selma Hepp, Chief Economist at CoreLogic, explains:

“Home equity trends closely follow home price changes. As a result, while the average amount of equity declined from a year ago, it increased from the fourth quarter of 2022, as monthly home prices growth accelerated in early 2023.”

The last part of that quote is particularly important and is the piece of the puzzle the news is leaving out. To further emphasize the positive turn we’re already seeing, experts say home prices are forecast to appreciate at a more normal rate over the next year. In the same report, Hepp puts it this way:

“The average U.S. homeowner now has more than $274,000 in equity – up significantly from $182,000 before the pandemic. Also, while homeowners in some areas of the country who bought a property last spring have no equity as a result of price losses, forecasted home price appreciation over the next year should help many borrowers regain some of that lost equity.”

And even though Odeta Kushi, Deputy Chief Economist at First American, references a slightly different number, Kushi further validates the fact that homeowners have a lot of equity right now: 

“Homeowners today have an average of $302,000 in equity in their homes.”

That means if you’ve owned your home for a few years, you likely still have way more equity than you did before the ‘unicorn’ years. And if you’ve owned your home for a year or less, the forecast for more typical price appreciation over the next year should mean your equity is already on the way back up.

Bottom Line

Context is everything when looking at headlines. While homeowner equity dropped some from last year, it’s still near all-time highs. Let’s connect so you can get the answers you deserve from an expert who’s here to help as you plan your move this year.

455 Revere Street

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Welcome to this charming ranch-style home, situated just minutes from UC Health Anschutz, Expo park and the highline canal! As you enter, you’ll appreciate the convenience of a spacious mudroom where you can easily store coats, shoes, and other outdoor gear. The open concept floor plan makes entertaining a breeze, with the kitchen, dining, and living areas all seamlessly connected. The updated kitchen is a chef’s dream with granite counters, stainless steel appliances, stylish backsplash and a Cafe gas stove, perfect for preparing delicious meals for your guests. Relax and unwind in the family room, which features skylights that flood the space with natural light, as well as a cozy gas fireplace that adds warmth and ambiance. The primary bedroom is generously sized, offering ample room for a king-sized bed, and features a custom designed closet to keep your wardrobe organized. This home also boasts a multi-season rec room that leads to a spacious backyard complete with a raised garden bed and a hot tub – perfect for outdoor entertaining and relaxation. Need more room to spread out\? The finished basement provides additional space for movies and entertaining, with its built-in bar area, as well as a private bedroom with a full bath for guests or family members. Other notable features of this home include a new roof installed in April 2023, a convenient sprinkler system, and a large laundry room with added storage. Don’t miss your chance to make this incredible home your own!

9858 Isabel Court

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Isabel Court is a jewel in Highlands Ranch. Welcome to this luxurious and spacious home, where comfort and elegance meet. As you step inside, you will be immediately struck by the stunning vaulted ceilings, which lend an air of grandeur and sophistication to the living space. The natural sunlight streaming in from the large windows adds warmth and brightness to the entire home. The formal dining room is ideal for hosting intimate dinner parties, while the chef’s kitchen is a dream come true for anyone who loves to cook. The granite slab countertops and stainless steel appliances provide a sleek and modern touch, while the large eat-in kitchen offers the perfect spot for breakfast or casual dining. The main floor also features a convenient office space for those who work from home or need a quiet place to study or read. Upstairs, explore your private retreat in the primary bedroom, vaulted ceiling, lavish soaking tub, chandelier, and dual closets with built-in shelving for all your storage needs. Three additional bedrooms provide ample of space for family and guests. Including one with a private ensuite, while two remaining are connected by a true Jack and Jill bath. The basement is an entertainer’s paradise, with plenty of room for movie nights or game nights with friends and family. There is also a private guest retreat, providing an ideal place for visitors to stay. Outside, your backyard oasis awaits. This massive lot allows for hosting barbecues or simply relaxing in the sunshine. The stamped concrete, covered patio with fire pit is the perfect spot for cozy evenings under the stars, while the open space provides plenty of room for outdoor activities and fun. Rest after a long day and soak in stunning mountain views. This is truly a remarkable home, positioned with a neighbor on one side offers fantastic views and privacy. Come and experience the epitome of luxury Colorado living today!

1171 S Emerson Street

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Welcome to your new home in the highly sought-after neighborhood of West Wash Park! This stunning 1/2 duplex boasts a prime location that’s just steps away from some of the best attractions Denver has to offer. As soon as you step inside, you’ll be greeted by an abundance of natural light pouring in through the windows and skylights, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The beautiful pergo wood floors flow throughout the open living space, adding character and coziness to the home. The updated kitchen is a true highlight, featuring stylish soft close cabinets and ample counter space, it provides the perfect spot to whip up delicious meals and entertain guests. Two bedrooms provide plenty of space for guests or a home office while the private yard with garden offers a peaceful haven to relax and enjoy the great outdoors. There is additional storage available for all of your Colorado toys in the hidden basement!

Leave your car parked in your designated carport and explore the bustling area of Wash Park, South Gaylord Street or South Pearl Street, all a short walk or roll away. Situated in the heart of this vibrant urban community, you’ll have easy access to some of the city’s best coffee shops and restaurants. Whether you’re grabbing a quick cup of joe or enjoying a night out, this location has something for everyone. Don’t miss your chance to experience the best of city living in this stunning West Wash Park home. Schedule your showing today and make this gem your own today!

9799 Grove Street

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Situated on a corner lot, this beautiful home in the Northpark neighborhood does not disappoint! Soaring ceilings greet you in the foyer with an abundance of natural light. Featuring an open floor plan with dedicated dining room, lovely kitchen with cream cabinets and granite countertops, entertaining is easy with the flow out the back patio to the oversized yard, perfect for outdoor parties, yard games or frolicking with your fur baby! A fireplace in the family room with two-story ceilings, offers cozy nights reading or lovely ambiance while cooking in the adjacent kitchen. Traveling upstairs you are led over a catwalk to the nicely sized primary bedroom featuring dual sinks, a separate shower, a garden tub, and cedar-floor lined closet. Two additional bedrooms are also upstairs as well as shared full bath. Feeling the need for more space\? The finished basement provide even more room for guests, a movie room, a home office or gym. Ready to get outside and explore\? The community clubhouse, pool and tennis courts are a short walk from your front door. Dining and shopping are also in close proximity. Schedule your showing today!