S’no Fun Anymore
by Osman Parvez ---- A few years ago, I was talking to a woman from the Chamber about perceptions of Boulder. She said many people imagine winter in Colorado is something The Shining. I even wrote a short post of my own about it awhile back. Well, today the reputation seems deserved. Another storm is moving in today, threatening to dump 1 to 2 more feet of powder. This is on top of last week's "Blizzard of 2006." Skiiers rejoice? Here's a blurb from the Camera: "The storm will hit the area in two waves, with the first bringing [...]
Decisions, Decisions…
by Osman Parvez Life is filled with decisions. Every day people literally make hundreds of them. Most decisions are small, like what to wear or have for breakfast. Some are more substantial, like whether to have formula or frappe. Voting is a big decision that many people are making today. Last night I was talking with my friend Ellen about the candidates. Information on these people seems pretty limited and who really has the time to fully research each candidate, particularly for lower level positions? We ended up looking at the voting recommendations of the local Sierra Club chapter, knowing [...]
Read the Blue Book
by Osman Parvez I try to steer clear of political opinion on the blog, but irrespective of where you stand on the issues or candidates, one thing I feel strongly about is voting. Colorado is a great place to live and contribute. Understanding the issues and voting accordingly will keep it that way. If you're planning to vote, be sure to read Colorado's Blue Book for 2006 (PDF). The Blue Book includes a list of arguements for and against a specific proposal and an analysis of financial impact. There's even an audio version. Another resource to check out is the [...]
Critical Thinking and Language
by Osman Parvez Maybe this is a little off topic, but I'm always trying to improve this blog and I'd like to share some ideas. For me, blogging is about trying to look at things in an interesting way, sharing information, and learning to write more effectively. Today I read an interesting article from Roy Peter Clark (a repeat guest on the Oprah Winfrey show). It stems from a discussion on truth telling in America, helping citizens to be smarter about how to interpret messages encountered every day in government, in media, in the workplace, in business and advertising. Clark's [...]
Why Did Sun Choose Colorado?
by Osman Parvez I tell people that companies and people are moving to Colorado for high quality of life, low cost of business, and growth opportunities all the time. Better to hear it directly from the horse's Sun's mouth. From Sun Microsystem's website... 1) Why did Sun choose Colorado as a site for expansion? Answer: Sun made the decision to expand in Colorado based on the educated work force, high quality of life, and pro-business climate and business potential. The expansion to Broomfield will also enable Sun to expand its coverage model to meet the demands of its fast growing [...]
Remembering 9/11
by Osman Parvez It's the anniversary of 9/11 and although there are deals keeping me busy, it also feels inappropriate to treat it as a normal business day. 5 years ago, I was working as an associate at an investment bank on the 25th floor of 800 3rd Avenue in Manhattan when the World Trade Center was struck. When we first heard of the attack, we rushed to the trading floor to watch the news. As we stood staring at the news screens, horrified at the smoke billowing from the hole in the first tower, the second tower was hit. [...]
It’s a Miracle!
by Osman Parvez We recently made the decision to pledge a donation from each our closings to the Children's Miracle Network in the name of our clients. I'm only starting to learn about this program. It seems like a great way to say thanks to our clients and support a great cause at the same time. It turns out that participating Re/Max agents and offices have been major contributors to the program for many years, donating over $65 million since 1992. Re/Max donated nearly $10 million last year alone If you're interested in learning more about the Children's Miracle Network, [...]
Highlights of Boulder
by Osman Parvez Many of our clients visiting Boulder ask about things to do while they're here. Usually, I’ll sit down with them over a map and point out neighborhoods, features and attractions. Recently I decided to take a few minutes to put together a list. If you’re planning a visit to Boulder, here’s a few of our favorite things to do. 1. The Pearl Street Mall. Take a stroll through Boulders famous pedestrian mall. Indulge in ice cream, watch street performers, admire sculpture and water features, people watch or shop for that little something you won’t find anywhere else. [...]
Boulder School Choices
by Osman Parvez A recent visitor to my site asked about our local schools. Since many buyers have similar questions, I've elevated my response to post status. ---- Osman, Can you post a link that gives an overview of area schools? I have some friends coming to work at Amgen in Longmont and they want to decide where to look. Where do most Amgenites live? What are schools like in Niwot? They have a 5 and 7 year old I think. Hal Hi Hal, Here's what you do. 1. Start by searching for property in Niwot. 2. Now pick a [...]
Recent Articles – August 4th
by Osman Parvez What's a Super Slab? Imagine a $2 billion high speed toll road stretching from north of Ft. Collins to south of Pueblo. Ray Wells is busy planning to make it a reality.. For the third year in a row Forbes magazine has ranked Denver-Boulder as the best city in America for singles. Let's see, Louisville was recently named the best affordable city to raise a family. Ft. Collins was given the distinction as being the best place to live by CNN/Money magazine. And we're still best for singles too. Here's the article. File this under Green Destinations. [...]
Recent Links – July 20th
by Osman Parvez Circle Capital Partners are on the move again. They've acquired 9 buildings and over 900,000 sqft of prime office space in downtown Denver from the Blackstone Group and JER Partners in a deal valued above $100MM. The Globeville metal processing plant operated by Asarco is expected to be sold to a developer in the coming weeks. Located at I-25 and I-70, the plant has long been controversial for environmental reasons and a cleanup could cost $8-10MM. Details to be announced as early as next week. Will the Governor have the ability to exclude forest land from development? [...]
Best Place to Live? Fort Collins, Colorado
by Osman Parvez Hmm... A few months ago, Louisville, CO was rated as the Best Place in America to Raise a Family. Now, Fort Collins, Colorado is ranked the Best Place to Live according to CNN and Money magazine. Well, I guess it's not a secret that the Front Range as a whole is one of the most attractive, enjoyable place to live in the country. The accolades just keep rolling in. According to the CNN's Money Magazine, Great schools, low crime, good jobs in a high-tech economy and a fantastic outdoor life make Fort Collins No. 1. Situated 5,000 [...]
Recent Links
by Osman Parvez It's been awhile since I posted links. Here are a few recent real estate and development related stories that are worth checking out (some articles may require registration). Bad luck be damned, 29th Street's Grand Opening is Friday, October 13th. The Wild Oats store won't be ready but 88% of the mall is leased, according to developers. Louisville is moving closer to creating an urban renewal area along CO42, with the planning commission voting 5-1 to move the proposal forward. The future Fasttracks stop located in the same area is helping provide momentum. Noodles and Company have [...]
Howdy Slim!
by Osman Parvez Last week we had family visiting. I admit, it was an all out recruiting trip to convince my soon-to-be Physician brother and his wife to consider Colorado their future home. In theory, an easy task given they've already served 3 years of a 4 year mandatory sentence in Buffalo, New York. Unfortunately, the jury is still out as to where they'll settle and his next rotation is scheduled for Worcester, MA. Something about being closer to family (what am I, chopped liver?). One of the things my brother noticed was how thin most people seem in Boulder. [...]
Cruise on This
by Osman Parvez Ok, this doesn't have much to do with the analysis of the Real Estate Market in Boulder. Consider it a small window into our creative community instead. Last night I, along with some friends, enjoyed the weekly cruiser bike ride that occurs every Thursday in Boulder. Except instead of the more typical 250 to 300 or so riders during the peak summer months, 650+ people were on the ride. Imagine a massive parade of people (and pets) on two, three, and four wheels in all manner of mostly red, white, and blue dress cruising through the streets [...]
