Spotlight on networking, community volunteerism, Capitol Hill!

Hello, bloggers.

In today's installment, I wanted to spotlight on community involvement. Over the last several years, I have been involved with Rotary, Rotaract, The Optimist Club, and The Boy Scouts of America. All have a special component of urban development- volunteerism.

When it comes to networking, especially for young real estate professionals (like moi), it is necessary to build a network of people in whatever capacity is possible. This means staying in touch with previous colleagues, creating a solid customer database, and always prospecting for business.

Urban development is a renaissance in Downtown Denver, Capitol Hill, Cheesman Park, and Uptown. It is experiencing a movement of younger, professional people moving into urban centers. Community involvement is necessary in these centers because it creates a sense of community and vibrancy. For anyone interested, I would highly recommend Rotary International. I would recommend because it is truly a community group that wants to help, and isn't just a networking-socializing tool- people are there because they want to be there. More about this later.

Secondly, I did a Capitol Hill Real Estate tour yesterday, which started on Logan and went all the way to Franklin, roughly 15 blocks. I saw homes I didn't know existed and a community that was incredibly interesting.

Take a look at two houses, directly across the street from each other. These are undoubtedly the same builder. I am positive this was some prominent Denver historical figure. But, what this tells me is that there are wonderfully valuable homes or converted condominium projects that add to the character of an area.
Why are these two homes so valuable? There is aesthetic value in these homes, which is what sells them. But why do people keep these homes? Because they offer an urban oasis into historical sophistication, and they grab so many elements of a city-dweller.

These dwellers don't need an entire yard, or their very own garage. These dwellers need some space, but are aware of their restrictions. They are aware of the costs of living where they do, but don't mind paying for it. They like the idea of an easy commute or a work from home scenario.

Business opportunities abound, like this one in Cheesman Park, right next to The Park Tavern. This is right next door to a Laundromat, and has been remodeled. It could be any variety of things, considering there is a grocery store right across the street, a tavern next door, a couple of restaurants right near by. What does this area need? Maybe it needs a real estate office? Maybe it needs a bookstore? Maybe it needs a bona-fide coffee shop. These are all great businesses, especially given that it is directly next door to a Laundromat.

Thanks for reading! More on the Capitol Hill house tour tomorrow. Then, the Fourth of July weekend. I am going to try to post Thursday, but take the weekend off, more than likely. Here is a wonderful 4th of July festival, in Fort Garland, outside of Alamosa. The most striking thing to me was a 19th Century baseball game, in Victorian era baseball uniforms. Awesome!

Thanks for reading!

Edward Martin, Real Estate Professional
Showcase Properties
303-875-4450