September is almost over and the new Fall season has quickly thrown itself upon us. If you are trying to find a post-summer deal or looking to sell before the hectic holidays, there are plenty of things you can do to speed up your transaction and close on your home sooner rather than later.

Sellers should do themselves a favor and play up the season to their full advantage. Colder temperatures and nicely hued foliage make the fall a beautiful time of year. Add vibrant mums or other fall-bloomed flowers to the front of your house to add to its curb appeal. Further decorate with things like pumpkins, colored corn or an appropriate wreath on the door. These small additions will give your property a "homey" feel, suiting the newly changed weather and

1. What does FIVE STAR mean?  I know I like my dining establishments and hotels to be FIVE STAR, but what does it mean in the real estate world? Crescendo Business Services, in conjunction with QMI Research, recently completed a research/recognition study to find real estate agents in the greater Denver Metro area who consistently wowed their customers.  5280 Magazine published an extensive list of professionals who have shown exceptional technical skills, integrity and knowledge of their markets. RE/MAX of Boulder is very proud to announce that our office had sixteen FIVE STAR Agents.  They are:

• 1.     Richard C. Ackerman              303-441-5604
• 2.     Diane Barnwell                        303-441-5624
• 3.     Holly McCarthy Cerretani         

For new buyers, the world of mortgages may be a little confusing and entirely overwhelming. If you are mortgage shopping for your first new home, you definitely want to get the lowest possible rate that your credit score will grant. While comparing rates and deals from various lenders, there are a few options and facts every consumer should consider. Percentage points are extremely important to consider, and buyers should absolutely seek the lowest possible rates they can find.

A 30-year fixed-rate mortgage of $400,000 at 4.3% would cost $1,979 per month, while the same loan balance at 5.3% costs nearly $2,221, according to numbers from Bankrate - a difference of almost $250 per month. Over one year, that 1% difference equals out to $3,000. Even small