The La Veta – Cuchara Valley Blog

As Reported in the Colorado Springs Business Journal:  “Michael Balloun of Arlington, Texas took the property over last month through a deed in lieu of foreclosure from its previous owner. A week ago, a new contract was signed to turn the property over to the recreation district.  The newly formed district’s future is predicated on Huerfano County’s approval of the recreational district the sale of bonds to finance improvements. More than 600 jobs could be created by the revamped development which is projected to include a new hotel, conference center, lake, mountain coaster attraction, zip line, downhill skiing, a snowboarding half-pipe and a tubing hill.”

The Signature yesterday had excellent coverage, interviews and details of the entire Plan. But I don’t think that they post it on-line so you will need to call them for your personal copy. 719 742-5591 or editor@signaturenewspaper.com

The 600 jobs and and hotel/conference center has been in plans of previous developer prospects also. Some feel this part could be either an exaggeration or long-term dream forecast.  But who knows?  Clearly the votes approving  of the Metropolitan District and subsequent sale of Bonds will be integral to the Plan.  And the word on the street is that both of those stipulated requirements are felt to be in well received progress already.   hmmm    We also hear that the Principals will be speaking at a community forum later this month to present their plan in person and to answer questions.  Won’t want to miss that one.

As confirmed today by The Signature, the locals involved in the restructure and redevelopment of the Cuchara Mountain Resort include notable locals Bruce & Joan Cantrell, the Lindsay Case Family Company and Dwight Harrison.   This looks like a great team of committed and  experienced players to me.  The Plan is unfolding this week and we continue to look forward to more details.  But it is indeed a BIG PLAN and could eventually have huge economic impact on our tourism, jobs and recreation.

This Plan is a committment to really start something.  It is likely that no money has changed hands yet and probably no deeds recorded yet either. But Agreements and Contracts appear to be in place for the Plan to take life and move forward.  It will take vision, effort, bonds, grants, permits and approvals.  But with these leaders, lots of effort and a little luck, it could in fact become a reality.  We will get you a link to a more detailed story just as soon as we capture one.  And later offer our comments on how we see its effect on local real estate demand and prices.

WOW, certainly looks like more truth than spoof to the newest news from the Cuchara mountain resort. (see earlier link posted below)  This is looking pretty exciting.  A new agreement with recent owner Balloun appears to be opening the doors to move forward. Reliable sources have identified the three principals ( they are well known locals to us) and they would have the knowledge, experience and capital securing ability to implement an overall development Plan to create an activity based – all season recreational resort facility on the mountain.   The Huerfano County Commissioners have informally even given it their initial support.   It won’t all happen immediately (may also still be Deeds to clear up I’m guessing).  And various feasibility studies, permits and planning are required. Then there is a rather significant matter of raising the necessary capital to get it all off the ground.  But hey, this is the closest we’ve been and most exciting news in a long time for the overall economic health, recreational opportunities and job creation for the Cuchara Mountain Resort.   Rumors will be plenty, (and opposition will arise) but tune in again later for more updates (or retractions).

Breaking news this morning for the Mountain Resort.  Rumor again?  Or real Progress?  Posted by our friends at Cuchara Valley. Org. We will follow this closely for you.  Meanwhile, click to follow the newest Cuchara Mountain Resort story.  http://bit.ly/cbeVgt

A  $300,000 Price Reduction at Echo Guest Ranch. At the foothills of the West Spanish Peak lies the incredible Echo Canyon Ranch. This picturesque ranch begins just south of La Veta, CO on the Scenic Highway of Legends and continues up the Huestes canyon through Devil’s Stairstep Wall and ending up above the scenic Echo Creek waterfall. From there, you can walk right into the San Isabel Nat’l. Forest and Spanish Peaks Wilderness Area. see details at http://www.lavetarealty.com/property_detail.php?listing=195

While touring last week with Roger & Stephanie we rounded a corner and got right up close to… nature.  I think nature might have felt more comfortable with a little more distance between us.  But it was great.

 Beautiful weather this weekend for our annual Huerfano County Fair here in La Veta.  Kids Rodeo on Saturday and special events include guest cowboy singer/songwriter R.W. Hampton at the Cowboy Church Service at 10:00 am Sunday at the rodeo arena. Also the BBQ luncheon and finishing up with the Livestock Sale beginning at 2:00 pm Sunday afternoon.

We all like a good bargain.  Who wouldn”t?  But do we always know a bargain when we see it???  

This week I had 2 different buyer tours of property.  Both clients were a real pleasure to work with.  We easily discussed some of the elements and signs of a real estate bargain.  Distinguishing price and value.  How does its price compare to similar properties. Is it a newer listing that is priced competitively or an older listing but with a recent price reduction?  How much price reduction and when?  What does value mean to you?

This morning I saw one of the better articles written on this very subject.  Tara at Trulia writes about the 7 insider secrets of bargain seekers.  And what to do and not to do when thinking about a bargain.  Check it out at http://www.trulia.com/blog/taranelson/2010/08/7_insider_secrets_for_bargain-seeking_house_hunters_1

Folks came out Tuesday to honor La Veta resident Doris Tracy.  She lived a wonderful 90 years and was buried here with full military honors.  During World War II Doris was one of the 1,000 women who served our country by volunteering  as a Women’s Airforce Service Pilot (WASP). Earlier this year she traveled from La Veta to Washington DC to be honored and receive the Congressional Gold Medal.  Since then, locals have discussed several projects that could recognize Doris and honor all our military aircorp WASP.

Few homes in La Veta can boast the views and landscapes of this classic home.  The Great Room allows family and guests room to lounge or play.  A great buy at $309,000.