For the fifth consecutive year, RE/MAX is the highest-ranked real estate franchise – and 14th overall – in the 2013 Franchise Times Top 200 Franchise Systems report.

The annual fall survey ranks U.S.-based franchises in many industries by global sales from the previous year.

• RE/MAX agents were ranked ahead of all other major real estate franchises in total sales for the fifth year in a row.
• Among franchises in all industries, RE/MAX moved up two places higher than in the last survey and reached 14th. McDonalds, 7-Eleven and KFC claimed the top three spots.
• RE/MAX finished in the top 15 and 12 places ahead of the nearest competitor.
• RE/MAX finished sixth on the “Top 10 Sales Growth ($M)” list for all franchises.

The beginning of the year has been steady and surprising.  Many of the properties going under contract are those that have been on the market for more than a year.  I would consider many to be of the tear down persuasion or need a lot of love and attention.  As our inventory dwindles and sales continue to be steady and new built no where in site, could be trouble in the little town of Aspen for those who are looking to live there dream here.  There is still some choice properties that are of a great value. Call me for the latest great buys!

REAL ESTATE

Luxury ZIP codes include Miami-Dade’s 33139 and 33156

BY MARTHA BRANNIGAN

Seems every week we hear that real estate is having some kind of come back somewhere. I was recently at the RE/MAX International convention with over 60 countries and over 7,000 agents and the common conversation was how the market is on fire and how many multiple offers are coming in. Yes the news is picking it up but by the time it becomes headlines in bold front pages, the best pricing will be gone for good.

Aspen saw a ferocious ending to the year which was our best year since 2007 and I see more to come.  With over $131,000,000 under contract for Aspen, $137,215,000 in Snowmass we are seeing a strong interest in the upper valley area.  Certainly Viceroy has lead the way in sales this winter season with over $20 million closed and counting. There are yet some incredible opportunities in all segments of the markets and now is the time to jump in.

Today CNBC came out with an article speaking to the market and its effect on the resort sales.  Check out http://www.cnbc.com/id/100550563 for the full article.  Not surprising that those tied to other markets and making some money from the new found highs are taking their investments and putting it where they can use it…..real estate. What best place to actually enjoy the fruits of your labor in such a tangible way.  Create memories, a healthy lifestyle of outside activities, a place for family and friends to gather. Of course, how simple right. We are still working on the stigma of the past few years yet those who really get it are jumping in now.

Aspen still is a great buy considering many of the other overseas markets are selling for more than price per square foot than Aspen.  But if you are still just going by the price per square foot then you really have not looked at what comes with the location.  Aspen has more to offer than any other little town in the mountains that I have ever encountered in all my years and travels.  But that is for another article.  For now, wherever your interest is in a second home or a move to a more healthy lifestyle, make it happen.

For more information on the great buys left in the market, please give me a call or an email.

Elevate your lifestyle!