Nicole Strom Realtor

09/03/2026

Why Buyers Shouldn't Overlook a Fall Move

You've been waiting for something to change before you buy. It just might not be the thing you expected…

09/02/2026

Think New Homes Cost More? Not Right Now.

Most people think a newly built home costs more than an existing one. But right now, that’s actually backwards.

09/01/2026

This is something El Paso County property owners may want to keep on their radar.

El Paso County is updating its Land Development Code, which helps determine what can be built where and establishes many of the standards for development throughout unincorporated El Paso County.

And the county is asking for public input.

The proposed changes cover much more than just zoning. They include standards involving setbacks, landscaping, fencing, parking, lighting, roads, drainage, utilities, water, subdivision design, building standards, and different types of allowable land uses.

This is important because what is around your property today isn't necessarily what will be around your property five or ten years from now.

It's one of the reasons I spend so much time researching zoning and surrounding land when I'm helping someone evaluate a property, particularly acreage, rural homes, new construction, and properties next to undeveloped land.

You can actually review the proposed changes yourself and leave comments directly within the county's draft documents.

📌 Read the Gazette article:
https://gazette.com/2026/08/31/el-paso-county-to-update-its-land-use-code/

📌 Review the proposed Land Development Code and comment:
https://elpasocountyldc.konveio.com/ldc-modules-1-2-zoning-districts-uses-and-development-standards

📌 El Paso County Land Development Code website:
https://www.elpasocountyldc.com/

📌 Public participation and meeting information:
https://www.elpasocountyldc.com/event-list

If you live in unincorporated El Paso County, this is a good opportunity to learn what's being proposed and make your voice heard.

08/31/2026

Thinking About Tapping into Your 401(k) To Buy a Home? Read This First.

Lately, headlines have floated an eye-catching idea about tapping into your 401(k) to cover a down payment on a home.

08/27/2026

Sellers Are Cutting Prices To Meet Buyers Where They're At

You're scrolling through listings on your phone and everything looks good until you see the price (or the estimated monthly payment). Then you close the app.

08/27/2026

I LOVE thrifting. ❤️

There is nothing quite like finding the perfect piece for your home or your wardrobe and walking out feeling like you found a little treasure, especially when there is no financial regret later.

Some days I find absolutely nothing. Other days, I find something so good that I cannot believe someone else donated it. That is what makes it fun.

Colorado Springs has some great thrift and vintage spots too. Springs Magazine recently put together a list of some of their favorites, including Crafted & Thrifted, The Rustic Roost, Arc, Eclectic CO., Goodwill and B-COS We Care Bargain Box.

If you want to check out their picks for some of the best thrift stores in Colorado Springs, here is the full article:

https://springsmag.com/where-to-thrift-in-colorado-springs/

Now I need to know...

What is YOUR favorite thrift store in Colorado Springs, and what is the best thing you have ever found while thrifting?

08/24/2026

Most Home Sales Close – Here’s How To Keep Yours on Track

Few things are as rattling as the thought of your home sale falling through at the last minute, right before closing. All that waiting, all that progress, out the window.

08/20/2026

One Number Could Change Everything About Your Next Move

When's the last time someone told you what your house is worth? Not what some online valuation tool guessed. Not what your neighbor's house sold for. What yours is actually worth right now.

08/19/2026

Higher Rates Could Actually Help Housing Supply – Here’s How.

You may have heard the number of homes for sale isn’t growing like it was. And maybe that has you worried you won’t find a home you love when it’s time to make your move.

08/17/2026

The Kind of House Buyers Are Willing To Pay More For

That spare room on the main floor. The finished basement with a kitchenette and its own entrance. The bonus room you've been using for storage. To you, it's extra space. But to a growing pool of buyers, it's the reason they'd pick your house.