Make Your Backyard More Inviting

Your backyard space is the perfect place for a party, barbecue or a gathering for friends and family. It should be the perfect place to relax and unwind during the warmer months. Spending time in your outdoor space allows you to enjoy all that nature has to offer without having to leave the comfort of home. While Colorado Springs is a great place to enjoy the great outdoors, you can enjoy some of the beautiful outdoors right outside your home. The Platinum Group, REALTORS has 5 tips to help make your Colorado Springs home's backyard a little bit more inviting.

1. Comfortable Seating

Adding patio furniture is a great way to make your backyard a place you want to spend time in. While any seating could do, if the seating is comfortable, you're more likely to kick back and spend more time in your outdoor space. Whether it's a lounger by a pool or a hammock under a tree, comfortable outdoor furniture will allow you to be able to enjoy time in your backyard.

2. Add Color with Blooms

A great way to add color to the outdoor space is with landscaping. Colorful landscaping can bring in a cheerful tone to your backyard. Plants of various sizes, types and color can complement each other and draw people's eyes to different areas of the backyard. A simple border, which can be made of decorative stones or rocks, can add a nice finishing touch to your outdoor space.

3. Spruce Up The Patio or Deck

Instead of a regular concrete slab for your patio, try sprucing it up by adding texture and warmth by using pavers like flagstone. Pavers add depth and dimension and can even enhance the look of furniture and other items on your patio. Whether it's a patio or a deck, you want to create a space that invites you to enjoy a private oasis in your own backyard.

4. Add Lighting

With the right placement, outdoor lighting can allow you and your guests to enjoy the outdoor space for as long as you desire. You want to place lights in the areas of the yard that is going to be used during the evening. In addition, you'll also want to place lights along any pathways that might be used to make it easier to navigate.

5. Use The Right Landscaping

Does your Colorado Springs home have a beautiful mountain view? Do you need a little bit more privacy? The right landscaping can transform your outdoor space. If your backyard has a gorgeous view, you want the landscaping to blend into the neighboring view and landscape instead of competing with it. If you want more privacy, think about adding more trees or a privacy fence. However, just like with having a view, you want the landscaping to blend nicely into your backyard space.

During the summer months, backyards are an area that potential buyers pay close attention too. If you're thinking about placing your home in Colorado Springs on the market. It's a good idea to pay some extra attention to the outdoor living space. When it comes time to sell your Colorado Springs home, contact The Platinum Group, REALTORS. Our expert team of Colorado Spring real estate agents can help you get your home in front of the right buyers.

The Platinum Group, Realtors The First Choice in Real Estate

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Colorado Springs, CO 80906

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Memorial Day Weekend In Colorado Springs

Memorial Day Weekend is just around the corner. Whether you are entertaining visiting family members or friends or you just need a fun weekend activity, there are many events happening around the city this weekend. From festivals to historic reenactments, there is something for the whole family to enjoy.

Territory Days

One of the most popular Colorado Springs Memorial Day activities is Territory Days. Celebrating 42 years, this free family-friendly event held in Old Colorado City has been bringing in top-notch live performers and entertaining the masses. Enjoy vendor booths with food, drinks, crafts, activities and more!

When: May 27 - 29
Where: Old Colorado City
Time: Saturday & Sunday 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM; Monday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Cost: FREE

Create Canon City Balloon Classic

The 4th annual Create Canon City Balloon Classic event is held on the grounds of The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey. Enjoy a great music lineup on Saturday and Sunday along with great food, award winning wines and see the works of local artisans. Watch balloon launches, skydivers and kite flying by Connor Doran. Participate in a 5K run/walk on Skyline Drive on Saturday. Kids can launch model rockets and play in the Kids' Zone. Stay in the evening for Balloon Glow and the Abbey Glow.

When: May 27 - 29
Where: Holy Cross Abbey 2951 US HWY 50
Time: Balloon Launch 6:30 - 8:30 AM (weather permitting); Balloon Glow and Abbey Glow 8:00 - 9:00 PM; Events and vendors throughout the day
Cost: FREE admission and FREE parking

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

This year's plant sale at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo will offer many varieties of grassses, perennials, herbs and more. With plants ranging from perennial favorites to freshly picked additions, you're sure to find a variety of plants to fit your application and location. All of the plants are Colorado grown, with the majority grown right at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. Pricing is competitive with garden outlets and all the proceeds will benefit Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.

When: May 27 - 29
Where: Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
Time: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Cost: No Zoo admission is required to attend the plant sale. Plant prices vary.

MeadowGrass Music Festival

3 days, 20+ bands, 1 big tent! One of Colorado's most eclectic music festivals will be held at the LaForet Conference & Retreat Center in Black Forest. The 9th Annual MeadowGrass Music Festival will feature performances from more than 20 national. regional and local artist, music workshops, yoga, kid's activities and camping. Bring your blanket and camp chairs - the festival takes place rain or shine.

When: May 26 - 28
Where: LaForet Conference & Retreat Center
Time: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Cost: Ticket price vary. Visit www.MeadowGrass.org for more details.

Memorial Day Commemoration

Photo Credit: Evergreen Cemetery Blog

Evergreen Cemetery Benevolent Society will be hosting a Buffalo Soldier Commemoration at the Spanish American War site from 11:45 AM - 12:00 PM with the 10th US Cavalry Buffalo Soldiers. The event begins at approximately 9:30 AM and will conclude 12:30 - 1:00 PM. Events include the Pikes Peak Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution at 10:00 AM, watch historic reenactors, view World War II history displays in the historic Evergreen Chapel and reflect on the lives who gave all. A butterfly release will end the ceremonies at approximately 12:30 - 1:00 PM.

When: May 30
Where: Spanish American War site
Time: 9:30 AM - 1:00 PM
Cost: FREE

There is no shortage of fun ways to spend your weekend, from these Memorial Day events to all the wonderful outdoor activities. Whether you choose to go to the music festival or spend the weekend on one of the many hiking trails around Colorado Springs, you will sure to have a fun-filled Memorial Day Weekend. If you fall in love with the area while visiting and are thinking about relocating to Colorado Springs, The Platinum Group, REALTORS are here to help. To talk to one of our expert Colorado Springs REALTORS, contact us today at 719-536-4444.

The Platinum Group, Realtors The First Choice in Real Estate

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5 Staging Tips To Help Sell Your Home

If you're planning on selling your Colorado Springs home this summer, you probably want to sell it as quickly as possible. The best way to get your home noticed is with staging. You want to ensure the people viewing your home can see themselves potentially living in your home. The best team of real estate agents in Colorado Springs has a few tips to help you sell your home quickly.

1. Boost Your Curb Appeal

This tip is given time and time again, but for good reason. When beginning the staging process it's important to start with the outside. Often times people will decide on the spot by looking at the outside of the house whether it's worth it to look on the inside. Make sure your home is one that people want to come inside. You want your entryway to tell your potential home buyers "welcome home." Here are a few tips to boost your home's curb appeal:

- Power wash your home's siding and walkways
- Ensure your house numbers are easy to see
- Plant blooming flowers and fresh greenery
- Keep your lawn maintained
- Wash the windows

2. Clean & Declutter Your Home

From shining floors to spotless counters, every inch of your home should sparkle. This is the best way to help your home put its best foot forward. You may need to hire a professional to help you out like if your home is carpeted,  you may want to consider hiring a carpet cleaner. If you have pets, it's a good idea to hide their personal belongings while your home is being looked at. Nobody wants to see a dirty dog bowl in the kitchen or torn up and dirty toys laying around the house. In addition to making your home sparkle, it's also a good idea to declutter your home. The point of staging is to make the people viewing your home to feel like they could live there themselves. You want your home to have a nice balance of lived-in and clean.

3. Think Gender Neutral 

When getting your home ready to sell, you want your home to appeal to as many people as possible. This means that you want to think gender neutral when it comes to decorating. Painting your walls is a great way to bring a breath a fresh air into a room. However, now is not the time to try that fun lime-green color. Neutral tones such as greys and browns are best when appealing to a large population. However, this doesn't mean you can't use any color. Just make sure you try to appeal to both men and women with the colors you choose.

4. Do Small Updates

While you may not be able to install brand new cabinets into your home, you can do small updates like a fresh coat of paint or stain and new hardware to make them look like new. New faucets on sinks and bathtubs and new hardware on doors can make a world of difference. Small updates throughout the home can help your old home seem new.

5. Think Seasonally

Since we are going into the summer season, it's important to pay extra attention to certain areas of your home. Ensure your backyard is well maintained and a place the potential new owners will want to spend time. Also, pay attention to things like your home's HVAC system. Because it's the summer months, buyers will pay extra attention to these things.

If you are thinking of selling your home in the Colorado Springs area, contact The Platinum Group, REALTORS. Our team is comprised of some of the best real estate agents in Colorado Springs. Let us help you sell your home and find you a new one! Contact us today to learn more about what you should do to prepare your home to be put on the market in Colorado Springs.

The Platinum Group, Realtors The First Choice in Real Estate

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Featured Home: 2322 Monteagle St.

If you are looking to buy a home in the Colorado Springs area, let the Platinum Group, REALTORS help. Our expert team of Colorado Springs real estate agents has one goal in mind, and that is to find the perfect home for your family. Check out this featured home from one of our Platinum Group, REALTORS, Nate Benet:

2322 Monteagle St. - $289,900

Raised ranch conveniently located in the central part of town, boasting beautiful hardwood floors throughout the main level and newly finished basement. Spacious kitchen has great cabinetry for storage space, bright window box, and black appliances to include a smooth top stove. Cozy up next to the fireplace in the main level living room, or in the basement family room. Three main level bedrooms and one in the basement provide for many living arrangements. Closet space is abundant throughout the home.

Vinyl windows on the main level, freshly painted exterior and deep two car garage are features to be desired. Mature landscaping surrounds the property and there is a convenient dog run in the back. Two patios for relaxing; one partially covered in the back and one in the front. Soak in the hot tub out back or spread out on the nice, flat lawn. Sprinkler system in the backyard and drip irrigation in the front to maintain the nice green grass and decorative shrubs and mature landscaping.

About The REALTOR

Nate enjoys the real estate profession because of the challenges in today’s market. With nearly 3,000 real estate agents working in the Colorado Springs area, Nate understands the value of teamwork between him and his clients, as well as the importance of integrity from the beginning of a transaction and beyond closing. Strong negotiating skills, staying up to date on market conditions and an emphasis on thorough communication have helped Nate achieve his clients’ trust.

Building personal relationships with his clients and being part of the home buying/selling process has been very rewarding to Nate. He strives to be your REALTOR® not only during the transaction but after as well. He is excited to work with you on your next home purchase or sale and looks forward to providing you with the value that his past clients have experienced. With a lot of attention focused on working by referral, it’s easy to see why so many great friendships have been established.

Nate enjoys a variety of sports and activities, including soccer, skiing, backpacking and golf. He is a member and a volunteer for the Colorado Springs Chamber of Commerce Rising Professionals, which allows networking with like-minded individuals to challenge each other in business and life. His interest and understanding of community engagement show through his involvement with local groups, committees and organizations.

Nate is licensed through the state of Colorado. He is a member of the National Association of REALTORS®, the Colorado Association of REALTORS® and the Pikes Peak Association of REALTORS®.

Let Us Find You Your Dream Home

House hunting can be an exciting, but nerve-wracking time. Don't worry, you don't have to do it alone! Our team of Colorado Springs REALTORS can help you find your dream home. With industry intelligence and knowledge of the Colorado Springs area, they can guide you through the buying process. If you are in need of help finding a home in Colorado Springs, call The Platinum Group, REALTORS at 719-536-4444 today.Let The Platinum Group, REALTORS Find Your Next Home!

The Platinum Group, Realtors The First Choice in Real Estate

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6760 Corporate Drive, Ste 300

Colorado Springs, CO 80906

(719) 536-4444

Tips To Help You Move During National Moving Month

Summer is quickly approaching, which means more homes will be getting bought and sold. This means that there are more homeowners on the move. May is recognized as National Moving Month! If you have recently purchased a new home in Colorado Spring, The Platinum Group, REALTORS has 7 tips to help make your move go a bit more smoothly.

1. Go Through Everything
Take a look at what you have and see if it's really something you need. Decluttering before you move can help make the packing process go a lot quicker. In addition, it's less stuff that you'll  have to pack up, bring to your new home, unload and organize. When going through your things, organize your belongings by category. Instead of spending the day cleaning out the entire bedroom, spend an afternoon sorting through all the clothing you own. When going through your belonging, separate your things by keep, donate and sell.

2. Transfer Your Information
Schedule a date for your disconnections or transfer of utilities. Make sure the disconnect happens the day after you plan to move, so you still have electricity the day of your move. For your new home, the earlier you make the call, the better as sometimes companies will not be able to come out the next day to make the switch. It's also important to change your address before you move. It's recommended to do it a week before you move, so you do not miss out on any important mail, such as bills.

3. Start Packing Early
Packing little by little is far less stressful than trying to tackle it all in one day. If possible, start packing as early as a couple months out. Start with the stuff you know you won't be using, such as off-season clothing and books to pictures and keepsakes. Pack up decorative items several weeks before you move, as these pieces can be some of the trickiest to store and pack because they're often fragile and oddly shaped.

4. Label Everything Clearly
When labeling boxes, don't just label what room it is, make it easy on yourself when unpacking and clearly label what's in the box. In addition, when stacking boxes, you may not be able to see every single side, so make sure you label the top and a couple of the sides. You will be thankful you went into detail when it comes time to start unpacking.

5. Separate Important Items
Important documents, such as passports, checkbooks, birth certificates and important items like medication should be kept separate from the items you're packing. Don't put them in boxes that will be in a moving truck. This will lessen the chances of hem getting misplace or lost. It's best to have a box that will be kept in the car with you that includes these important items so you will know exactly where they will be once you get into your new home.

6. Don't Forget About The Food
Before you move, ensure you use the food that you already have in your kitchen, such as canned food, frozen food, fresh fruit and vegetables and other items that won't travel well. While you shouldn't stop by food altogether, it is wise to only buy what will get eaten before moving.

7. Pack An Overnight Bag
After moving your boxes into your new home, you might be a little tired, which means not everything will be unpacked. You'll want the essential items within easy reach like a change of clothes and toiletries. This is also a great way to move small electronics like laptops during the move to reduce the risk of them getting damaged, or worse, stolen.

Finding your dream home and moving into it can be an exciting time, however, it can also be stressful. Hopefully, with these seven tips, your next move will go smoothly. If you are thinking about moving to Colorado Springs, Let The Platinum Group, REALTORS help you find your new home! Give us a call at 719-536-4444 today.

The Platinum Group, Realtors The First Choice in Real Estate

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6760 Corporate Drive, Ste 300

Colorado Springs, CO 80906

(719) 536-4444

Celebrate Lawn & Garden Month With These Spring Yard Tips

April is National Lawn & Garden month and it's also the best time to start up your spring lawn care routine so you can have a beautiful yard you can enjoy all summer long. Many of our homes for sale in Colorado Springs feature beautiful backyards that feature gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains. The Platinum Group, REALTORS wants to make sure you can enjoy these beautiful views with an equally beautiful backyard. To celebrate National Lawn & Garden Month, we have 6 tips for you to keep in mind this spring so you can have the best looking lawn on the block this summer.

1. Mow Regularly

Start mowing your lawn as soon as it needs it and continue mowing as often as it takes to keep it between 3-4 inches, which is usually about once a week. Keep in mind though that it's important not to cut your lawn too short, as that could be just as damaging as letting it grow too tall.

2. Water In The Early Morning

It's best to water your lawn during the coolest part of the day, which is the early morning. While it is also cool in the evenings, watering the lawn at night doesn't allow the water droplets to evaporate, which could cause lawn disease. In addition to watering in the morning, it's also best to water the lawn less often, but for longer periods of times to promote roots growing deep into the ground.

3. Fertilizer 

The type of grass you have in your lawn will affect when and how you should fertilize your lawn. If you have cool-season grasses, don't heavily fertilize your lawn in the spring. This will encourage rapid tender growth that will struggle to survive the heat of the summer. If your cool-season lawn is in in bad shape, fertilize lightly in the spring with a slow-releasing fertilizer. Save the heavier feedings for fall when cool-season grasses are at their peak growing season. If you have a warm-season grass, fertilize in the late spring as soon as the lawn gets nice and green and begins to actively grow. This is usually after the last frost in April or May.

4. Use Weed Control

Both cool and warm season kinds of grass can benefit from weed control during the spring months. It's best to use a pre-emergent weed control during the spring to prevent the seeds from germinating. The best way to control weeds is to eliminate them before they start to grow.  Keeping the weeds out of your grass helps it not only look good but it keeps it healthy too. 

5. Aerate

The best time to aerate your lawn depends on the type of grass is in your yard. For warm-season grasses, it's best to aerate in the early to mid-summer. For cool-season grasses, aeration is best saved for the fall, however, it can be repeated in the springtime if the soil is extremely compacted. It's best to wait until the lawn has been mowed two or three times in the season so you know it will recover from the aeration.

6. Overseeding

In the spring, you will need to decide if you want to focus on weed control or lawn seeding. Pre-emergent herbicides prevent grass seed from sprouting as well, so you can't do both. The herbicide usually last up to 12 weeks, which means you'll miss the spring planting season.

If your focus is on filling in bare spots or establishing a new lawn, then follow these steps depending on the type of grass you have. If you have cool-season grasses, they can be planted as soon as the temperature is in the 60s and soil temperatures are in the 50s. Plant as soon as temperatures allow the seedlings a chance to get established before the hot weather hits. Fall is typically the better time to plant cool-season grasses, so use the spring months for patching bare spots and be prepared to keep your lawn well-watered during the summer. Warm-season grasses can be planted when air temperatures are in the 70 and soil temperatures are in the 60s. It's important to make sure the danger of frost has passed. Late spring is the best time to plant warm-season grasses.

Hopefully, with these tips, you'll have a healthier lawn you can enjoy all summer long. If you are in search for a new home in Colorado Springs with beautiful views of mountains or the city from your backyard, The Platinum Group, REALTORS can help. Just call our expert team of Colorado Springs real estate agents at 719-536-4444.

The Platinum Group, Realtors The First Choice in Real Estate

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6760 Corporate Drive, Ste 300

Colorado Springs, CO 80906

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7 Spring Curb Appeal Tips For Your Home

Spring is in full swing and many people are doing some spring cleaning around their home. While spring is a great time to get your Colorado Springs home nice and clean for the summer, it's also a great time to do some work around the outside of your home. The best team of REALTORS in Colorado Springs has a few tips to help you boost your home's curb appeal this spring.

1. Enhance The Front Door

Your front door should be your home's exterior focal point. Make sure it looks its best by adding a fresh coat of paint or stain. If your door is painted, maybe paint it a new color - like an exciting green or a rich red. Polish the door handles or replace them if necessary. For a seasonal touch, adding a beautiful spring wreath - if you want to get creative, you can even make your own!

2. Add More Plants

Curb appeal begins at the curb. Instead of keeping plants close to your home, plant some perennials and spring bulbs between the curb and sidewalk. This extra layer of foliage and color can create a sense of depth, which could make your front yard appear larger.

3. Make Your House Numbers Pop

Go across the street and see how easy it is to find your house numbers. Place them where they're not blocked by trees or porch railing, and position them horizontally rather than vertically, as they are easier to read that way. Ideally, place house numbers beneath a porch lamp or landscape light, where they will be illuminated in the evening.

4. Make Your Yard Shine

A well-manicured yard is the key to great curb appeal on a home. Mowed lawn, fresh mulch and pruned plants can boost the curb appeal of any home. Re-seed any areas in the lawn that are bare, pull out weeds and trim back any overgrown bushes. Make sure you begining mowing your lawn as soon as it needs it in the spring and continue to mow it at least once a week throughout the summer.

5. Plant Flowers You Love

Fragrance can have a big impact on a person's experience walking up to your home - not to mention your own walk up to the front door. Consider planting flowers with lovely scents, such as roses, lilacs, honeysuckles, jasmine, lavender and even fresh herbs like rosemary.

6. Light It Up

Lights can make a huge difference in a home, especially outdoor lighting. In the evening, a well-light driveway and porch is welcoming and makes your space look larger. Add lights leading up the driveway and walkway to the front door. This will make it easier for guests, and you, to navigate at night. Not only will it make it safer, it will also make your home beautiful at night.

7. Maintenance Is A Must

All the hard work you put into the curb appeal will be pointless when home maintenance chores have been put off. Nothing looks worse from the curb than hanging gutters, chipped paint and missing bricks from the porch. Not only can these items take away from your curb appeal, they can also damage your home. When you're outside enhancing your curb appeal, take a look around the outside of your home. Make note of any gutters that need to be repaired, missing or damaged shingles, siding that needs to be replaced or repaired and any other home maintenance chores.

If you're looking to buy or sell a home in Colorado Springs, The Platinum Group, REALTORS can help! Our team of real estate agents are some of the best REALTORS in the Colorado Springs area. To see how we can help you, call us at or visit us online at www.PlatinumHomeSales.com.

The Platinum Group, Realtors The First Choice in Real Estate

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6760 Corporate Drive, Ste 300

Colorado Springs, CO 80906

(719) 536-4444