Northern Colorado-Where The Sky Is Not Cloudy All Day

I can never say it enough-I love living in the Fort Collins area. Not only are there amazing Fort Collins schools, fantastic shopping and fine dining options that will have you wanting seconds, but there also magnificent Fort Collins golf courses, plus numerous year around entertainment activities for families of all ages and stages.

Fort Collins Gardening Seasons

As a Fort Collins, CO real estate agent, I’m always conscious of our local weather and if you are relocating to Fort Collins or Loveland from far away, you just might be wondering what is our Northern Colorado area weather is like.

Because of the beautiful spring and summer weather, Fort Collins is a wonderful place for a gardener to experience all types of weather tolerant plants and flowers. If you possess a green thumb and love planting perennials, bulbs, along with fruits, vegetables and a local favorite, gorgeous day lilies, you’ll find Fort Collins has a great growing season, as well as enough climate variation between season to fully enjoy a wide variety of hearty garden choices.

Fort Collins Gardening

You can count on spring flowers bursting in color starting in early March and continuing throughout the Summer months. Spring and summer also provides us with plenty of opportunity for short rain showers, so it is always good to have that umbrella handy. You can bet I keep one handy for my Fort Collins real estate clients too. Fall and Winter provide the perfect climate for breathtaking Mums, Holly varieties, and decorative shrub pruning and training. Throughout the year, the Fort Collins and Loveland communities host garden shows as a way for gardeners to show off their efforts-and for new comers to see what plants really take off in our great Fort Collins real estate gardens.

Fort Collins and Loveland Area

Have you fallen in love with Fort Collins, CO? If so, why not share why you love living in our area by leaving a comment below!

Until next time,

Jason

Fort Collins Golf Club

Tomorrow, August 26, 2010 at 8am the morning senior league will be meeting for a 9 hole play at the South Ridge Golf Course.  The senior league is a group that gets together for friendly, semi-competitive play, great times, and afterward meet up at the club house for lunch at Mackenzie’s Pub & Grill.  To learn more about how you can join in the fun of the senior league game, contact Matt Magley at 416-2828 for more details.  You can also learn more about the three Fort Collins golf courses below.

Fort Collins Golf Communities

There are three breathtaking golf courses located right in Fort Collins, and with over 300 days of sunshine every year, players can enjoy games year round. After playing on the superbly designed municipal golf courses, it is easy to see why Fort Collins is home to some of the best golf in the state. The Golf Courses are:

• City Park Nine-a 9 hole, par 36 course with small greens and mature trees
• Collindale-an 18 hole, par 71 course featuring fast, medium sized greens
• Southridge-an 18 hold, par 71 course with scenic views and rolling terrain

Fort Collins City Park Nine Golf Course

Built in 1940, City Park Nine is a regulation length 9 hold course that offers enjoyment and challenges for players of all ages and abilities. Located at 411 South Bryan Ave, next to historic City Park and Grandview Cemetery, the course features tight fairways, small greens and mature trees. It is also consistently recognized as the “Best Nine Hole Golf Course” in Colorado. City Park Nine is the perfect, unique experience for the casual player or golf purist. Call 970-221-6650 to reserve a tee time.

Fort Collins Collindale Golf Course

Located at 1441 East Horsetooth Road, Collindale is a championship length, 18 hold golf course nestled on 160 acres of beautiful Northern Colorado outdoors. Consistently recognized as having some of the best and fastest greens in the state, it is the home of the local U.S. Open Qualifying and a favorite for many State amateur golf events. To reserve a tee time call 970-221-6651

Southridge golf Course is located at 5750 South Lemay Avenue, and features an 18 hold golf course situated on 128 acres. The scenic views and challenging tee shots from multiple tee boxes offers the ideal playing conditions for players of all levels and ages. To reserve a tee time call 970-416-2828

Northern Colorado Communities

The beautiful Northern Colorado area offers many exciting, challenging, and scenic golf courses, as well as Northern Colorado homes for sale within golf communities. To start your search for Fort Collins homes for sale, or to see our Northern Colorado featured properties for sale, simply contact me, Jason Humpal, your expert Northern Colorado real estate agent.

Until next time,
Jason

Fort Collins Things To Do

One of the biggest fears people have about moving to a new area with children, is finding comparable activities, sports, and the like for their children to enjoy.  If your children will be attending the outstanding Fort Collins Schools, you may be even more eager to find community clubs, sports, and area activities to get them (and you) involved in, so you can quickly get to know you new home, neighbors and other children.  Because Fort Collins is a great place to raise a family-and our area takes great pride in  continuing to be a huge family focused city-the Recreator magazine was created to serve families and Fort Collins home buyers new to the area.

Fort Collins Activities

The magazine offers print and online versions, where you can register for everything from horseback riding, to white water rafting, to community basketball teams to gardening clubs. Just about everything you could dream of doing is offered and listed for quick and easy reference. The Recreator is published quarterly and in between issues you can stay in even closer contact with all the latest community buzz, events and activities by subscribing to the RecreatorExtra e-newsletter.

Fort Collins Neighborhoods

The Recreator also offers information on local clubs, events and activities held in some of our lovely Northern Colorado neighborhoods;  so if you are in the process of buying Fort Collins real estate, or looking to move here soon, subscribing to the Recreator can offer you a look inside your future community and perhaps give you an even better way to choose what neighborhoods appeal to you, based upon how active they are all with community events.

Questions about Fort Collins

Want to learn more about Northern Colorado real estate? Need more information on the Fort Collins area? As your expert Northern Colorado Realtor, I am here to serve you, so feel free to contact me any time.

Have fun enjoying our fall activities!

Until next time,

Jason

Fort Collins School Uniforms

It is that time of the year again! School shopping, for most Fort Collins area families, is underway and excitement is growing as children anticipate the new school year, which is set to start in just a few weeks. If you have just bought Northern Colorado real estate, or will be moving to Fort Collins very soon, you may feel worried about how to get your children ready for the year, and where to find the right uniforms.

Fort Collins Area Schools

Many people buy Fort Collins real estate or base their search for Northern Colorado homes for sale off of whatever public or private schools they want their children to attend. Luckily though, all of the Northern Colorado communities offer top notch public, as well as private, schools that rank consistently in top schools in the state. So no matter what Fort Collins neighborhood you choose to call home, you can rest easy knowing that all of the local schools help to make Fort Collins a great place to raise a family.

School Uniforms for Northern Colorado Public and Private Schools

If you are new to the area, or this will be the first year you send your children to school, you may be wondering about the school uniforms-not all public and private schools use them; however, some do, so you will want to contact the schools your children will be attending to learn what variations, colors and requirements there are for the dress code.

The Northern Colorado area offers Educational Outfitters as part of the shopping experience on College Ave in downtown Fort Collins. The store offers the an extensive selection of school uniforms, so you won’t have to run around to different stores, even if your kids all attend different Fort Collins schools with different colors and styled uniforms.

The best part? The prices are family affordable, and cater to large families on tight budgets-so you don’t have to worry about affording to make your children look great for the school year. Another plus? Their outfits are guaranteed for the entire school year-so if they wear out or tear (within normal use) Educational Outfitters will replace your items.

To learn more, or start shopping for the school year, visit the Educational Outfitters at 3500 S College Ave. Have a happy start to the school year!

Until next time,

Jason

Students in Fort Collins area schools in grades 3 through 8th are eligible to participate in the Recreational Players and Travel Teams as part of the Fort Collins Baseball Club (FCBC). Registration  has started and continues through August 23rd. Even if you will be moving to Fort Collins soon, or are currently looking to buy Fort Collins Real Estate, you can still register for the baseball team that will be in your new Fort Collins neighborhoods online.

Coach Fort Collins Youth Baseball

Currently, there need to be 4 teams to form a league, and applications are open now for coaches, as well.  All games are played on Sundays from noon to 6pm, and coaches are able to register the team they coached over the summer, if they were summer team coaches.  Fort Collins hosts the baseball games at numerous parks around the Fort Collins communities, and you will learn more about the specific games and locations once all the teams are formed.

Fort Collins Activities

If you are interested in getting your children involved in the Fort Collins Baseball Club, here is some of the information and cost:

• 3rd & 4th Grade – $95 Player’s where the reversiable Jersey from GOJOS
• 5th & 6th Grade – $100 Players can where summer jersey or FALLBALL jersey
• 7th/8th Grade – $115 bsp; $115

Game Season runs from September, 11th to October 30th and there are:

• 6 League Games
• Game Balls, Umpires, Scheduling, Fields rental and maintenance, Equipment and Administration skills provided with registration fees
• Focus of league is on individual and team instruction by coaches.
• Umpires are asked to both call the game and assume a more active role in educating both players and coaches
• Coaches are given the opportunity to use free substitution in order to provide a more individualized instruction

Uniform information:

• Teams may choose to use existing summer jersey’s
• Players must be in appropriate baseball attire.
• GOJO’s provide the reversible jersey for grades 3rd & 4th if needed
• 3rd – 4th Grade wears the reversible jersey from GOJO’s. Grade’s 5th -8th may wear their summer teams jersey or the FALL BALL JERSEY. Fall T-Shirt is included in grades 5th-8th.

Players are assigned to teams by school and geographic quadrant locations bordered by College and Drake Streets in downtown Fort Collins and parents are encouraged to sign up on the registration for help coach and assist the fall ball teams.

Have a great season!

Until next time,

Jason

If you area relocating to Fort Collins, you may be feeling a little pressure to get your children ready for the start of school. Don’t worry though, Fort Collins is an amazing place to raise a family, and the award wining Fort Collins school district, the Poudre School District, will be right there with you to ensure your children have a smooth adjustment to their new Fort Collins neighborhood and settle into a great routine.

Fort Collins Area School District Calendar

Here are some of the important dates Fort Colins area families will want to have on their calendars. Remember though, that dates are always subject to change, and you should also follow the most current calendar giving by your child’s teacher throughout the year:

Aug 16:Classes in session for some middle and high school students (depends on specific school, some start the 16th, others start the 17th)
Aug. 17: Classes in session for remaining middle and high school students and all elementary school students
Sept 6: Labor Day-no school
Sept 20: K-8 Students Off
Oct 14:K-5 Parent/Teacher Conference Day
Nov 24-26: Thanksgiving Recess
Nov 29: K-8 Students Off
Dec 20-31: Winter Break for all students, no school
Jan 3: K-12 Teacher Work Day
Jan 17: Martin Luther King, Jr Day, no school
Feb 21: K-12 Students Off
March 11: K-5 Teacher Work Day
Mar 14-18: Spring Break, no school for all students
April 15: K-12 Parent/Teacher Conference Day
April 18: K-8 Students Off
May 13: K-8 Teacher Work Day
May 26: K-12 Half Day for Students, Last Day of classes

Moving To Fort Collins

For you children, it can be a bit intimidating to relocate Northern Colorado right before school starts, but with all the fun Fort Collins area things to do, and great Fort Collins real estate offering wide open nature’s unlimited outdoor activities, your children are sure to settle in and grow to love their new home. To help ensure you are ready for the start of the Northern Colorado school year, here are some of the important registration dates (remember they are subject to change, and you should always check with your specific school):

Aug 9-10: Registration for New Students
Jan 28: Middle and High School Choice Deadline
Feb 10: Kindergarten Registration for 2011-2012 year
Feb 11: Elementary School Choice Deadline

Do you need more information about the Northern Colorado area, schools or simply need help with finding the perfect Fort Collins area real estate for your family? Contact me, Jason Humpal, your expert Fort Collins real estate agent to learn everything and anything you need to know about our area. I am here to serve you.

Until next time,
Jason

Fort Collins, CO Included in Best Places To Live

It really comes as no surprise that the Fort Collins CO area would be in the top 10 of the top 100 Best Places To Live by CNNMoney.com. Not only are is it a small town that offers nearby big city amenities,  it also offers outstanding, award wining school systems, community recreation activities, beautiful neighborhoods,  and plenty of jobs. Truly, when you buy Fort Collins real estate, you are getting to own you own little piece of heaven on Earth.

Fort Collins Information

When living in Fort Collins, you will never lack for entertainment. there are over 29 miles of amazing trails for cycling, running, hiking, and walking. There are streams and rivers for fishing, boating, and white water rafting, and in the winter, the beautiful mountain scenery transforms into a skiing and snowboarding dream.

For the non-outdoor adventure type, there are numerous community celebrations and festivals, from the Fort Collins Jazz Festival to the annual Old Town Fort Collins Marathon, to fit every taste and occasion. There are also a variety of local microbreweries, you are sure to find a way to relax and enjoy the pristine outdoors of Fort Collins.

Jobs

Many companies are announcing lay-offs; however, the major employers in Fort Collins are actually announcing job increases and company growth. Fort Collins is a center of economic activity; even as local economies around the country fell, Fort Collins held strong. Hewlett-Packard and Colorado State University are the two largest employers; with Hewlett-Packard expanding and adding jobs in their Fort Collins head quarters.

Relocate to Fort Collins

Want to learn more? Our expert Fort Collins real estate team can help you every step of the way. Request our Fort Collins Relocation Package and browse our Fort Collins Home Buying Guide to learn all the information to help ensure a smooth transition for your family. Need more? Simply contact us, your Century 21 Humpal Fort Collins Realtors to learn everything and anything you want to know.

Until next time,

Jason

Camping in Fort Collins Colorado

One of my favorite summer activities is camping. The Northern Colorado area communities are nestled in the perfect location for some great family camping memories. The best part of camping? You get an amazing vacation for very little money and without a lot of travel. If you live in Fort Collins, Berthoud, Firestone, Frederick, Greeley, Johstown, Longmont, Loveland, Platteville, Wellington, or Windsor, you have numerous great camping options all around-which allows you to also choose just how far from home you want to go, and when kids are involved, that freedom to be close to home is wonderful.

Northern Colorado Kids’ Camping Tips

Get the kids interested in the trip by getting them involved. Build their excitement and anticipation.

• Plan the camping trip together
• Decide on places to go – consider interests, outdoor experience and children’s ages.
• Pick activities to do
• Plan and shop for your meals
• Prepare and pack the equipment and supplies
• Try a backyard camp out before you go for the first time
• Plan a few activities
• Search the sky for constellations
• Listen to the many night sounds
• Don’t forget the special nighttime snacks
• Camp chores are actually fun for kids. They love collecting firewood, filling water containers, hammering in tent stacks, camp cooking etc.
• Make the camp chores extra fun – have contests for gathering the most kindling, best camp cooking, most organized gear
• Take a small day hike
• Go fishing at a local pond or stream
• Take an evening walk
• Have a scavenger hunt
• Go on a flashlight walk
• Extra clothing and shoes – the kids will get wet and extremely dirty
• Warm clothing – it may get chilly especially in the evening/dress in layers
• Insect repellent – consider time-release formulas
• Sunscreen – they’ll be outside all day
• First aid kit – for those little accidents
• Rain gear – keep them dry and warm
• Toys, games, activities – you want to keep them busy
• Check out Want to Play a Game?
• Familiar bedtime items – pillows, blankets, stuffed animals, dolls etc
• Flashlight/glow sticks – to help relieve nighttime fears
• Snacks – all this activity is going to make them hungry
• Drinks – avoid dehydration due to heat and activity level
• Plan alternate activities for bad weather

Relocate to Fort Collins

The Northern Colorado area is a great place to raise a family because here family is first. You will find unlimited adventures your entire family can share, as well as outstanding schools that will provide top educations for your children. Would you like to learn more? Request our personalized Northern Colorado Real Estate Buying Guide, which will help start you on your journey to finding the perfect Fort Collins area homes for sale, or simply contact your Northern Colorado real estate experts to learn more.

Until next time,
Jason

Fort Collins Area Zoo and Park

Whenever I greet new Fort Collins real estate clients that will be soon relocating to Northern Colorado from other areas, I quickly find out if they have children-and if so,  I recommend making a trip to The Farm at Lee Martinez Park. There are many wonderful Fort Collins, CO communities and events that make the Northern Colorado area a great place to raise a family,  and The Farm at Lee Martinez Park is just one great example of everything our area offers.

Family Fun in Fort Collins

The fully operational farm allows children to interact with farm animals, go on hay rides, pony rides along the Poudre River, and learn all about farming. There is also an on-site farm museum that takes visitors on a journey through the changes, innovations and advances in farming since the late 1800’s. 85 acres of park space offer picnic shelter, a play area, sports fields and the Poudre Trail for walking and biking. Admission is only $2 and seniors & children under 2 are free. The farm is located at 600 North Sherwood, and their phone number is s970-221-6665;they also do birthday parties, if you are looking for something unique for your child’s special day.

Fort Collins Real Estate

There are many beautiful Northern Colorado homes for sale throughout our lovely Northern Colorado communities, and all offer quick access to the many wonderful things to do, while providing great Fort Collins schools and lifestyle for our residents. Want to learn more? Simply contact me, or browse the Fort Collins area real estate buying section of our site to learn more.

Until next time,
Jason

Loveland CO Hiking Trails

Loveland Colorado is also known as “The Gateway to the Rockies” and its picturesque location outside of Fort Collins Colorado make Loveland a hiking paradise. Not only do the Loveland CO neighborhoods feature numerous green spaces, parks and recreation facilities, but there are many hiking and rock climbing adventures for every skill level in your family.

Enjoy your new Loveland CO real estate to the fullest by enjoying the great outdoors! Loveland is a wonderful place to raise a family, and the many state parks close by support and active and healthy lifestyle for all athletic levels. Some of the best enjoyed family time can be spent hiking the wonderful trails that meander throughout the Loveland area.

Where To Go For Great Hiking in Loveland CO

The following places have offer great guided tours of the local trails, as well as trails you can follow on your own. Remember safety first though- you should always hike with a buddy, have water and snacks, and tell others what trails you will be covering.

Enjoy the close-by trails at:

St. Vrain State Park
Lory State Park
Boyd Lake State Park
Larimer county Parks and Open Lands

There are many more trials, guided tours, rock climbing, horseback riding, and camping adventures to enjoy when you relocate to Northern Colorado, so simply contact me, Jason Humpal, to start your Northern Colorado home buying adventure today.

Until next time,
Jason