A Guide To Home Ownership Let’s go shopping!
Table of Contents Meet Janet Leap Janet’s Achievements Meet Janet’s Team Concierge Services Our Team is Your Team The Home Buying Process Getting Pre-Approved The Home Search Process Making An Offer Home Inspection Cash to Close Monthly Payments Glossary of Real Estate Terms Where We Work Re/Max: A Global Leader Re/Max of Boulder Good Karma: Our Circle of Gratitude Our Schools: Boulder Valley School District Our Schools: St Vrain Valley School District Boulder Neighborhoods Boulder County Communities Client Testimonials
Janet Leap Your Trusted Real Estate Advisor In today’s market, it’s essential to work with a seasoned real estate professional who knows the local housing landscape. As a Boulder resident for 25 years and a Realtor for over 20 years, I bring deep market insights, a vast network, and expertise to support you in achieving your real estate goals. I’m proud to be consistently ranked in the Top 1% of real estate agents in Boulder County and to be associated with RE/MAX of Boulder, one of the nation's top RE/MAX offices. In 2023, I was honored to be the top-producing agent at RE/MAX of Boulder, closing 40 transactions with over $50,000,000 in sales. I don’t work alone. My dedicated team of professionals is eager to put our combined skills to work for you. Whether you’ve sold many houses or this is your first time on the selling side of a real estate transaction, I will ensure you achieve your real estate goals. I’m excited to work together!
When you put together years of experience in the Boulder market, the willingness to speak truth, an adoption of the latest technology, and an insane work ethic, you get a realtor like Janet...If you're lucky enough to work with Janet, you'll feel and know she puts your interests first at all times. Randy R. | Buyer + Seller
Janet Leap Local Expert. Skilled Negotiator. Trusted Advisor.
Janet loves living and working in Boulder, and her deep involvement in the community is a testament to that passion. She offers the perfect combination of local expertise, skilled negotiation, and a trusted real estate advisor who’s dedicated to your success.
LOCAL EXPERT. Since moving to Colorado in 1997 and making Boulder her home in 2000, Janet has become deeply embedded in the community. Need a recommendation? Janet always has one at the ready. Whether you’re searching for the best happy hour spot, a new hiking trail, or a trusted dentist, Janet is your go-to guide for all things local!
SKILLED NEGOTIATOR. With over 20 years in real estate, Janet has honed her negotiation skills to perfection. She knows how to craft winning offers that are both creative and strategic, giving her clients a competitive edge. Thanks to her extensive network and respected reputation within the real estate community, Janet excels even in challenging negotiations. Her impressive track record of success, particularly in multiple-offer situations, ensures that you’re always in expert hands.
TRUSTED ADVISOR. When working with Janet, you can expect a thorough and thoughtful approach to the home search process. She carefully reviews every property, providing insights on the pros and cons of each. With over 40 transactions in 2023 alone and a 95% repeat client rate, Janet has proven herself as a trusted advisor that clients rely on time and again. She is committed to finding your perfect home with your best interests at heart.
Janet’s Achievements LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENTS Top 1% Boulder County Realtors | since 2015 Inducted into RE/MAX Hall of Fame | 2011 RE/MAX Lifetime Achievement Award | 2017 RE/MAX Platinum Club | since 2011 RE/MAX Chairman’s Club | since 2016 RE/MAX Titan Club | since 2021 RE/MAX Diamond Club | since 2023 Graduate Realtor Institute [GRI] | since 2008 Council Residential Specialist [CRS] | since 2010 Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist™ [CLHMS] | since 2023 95% Repeat and Referral business
2025 ACHIEVEMENTS
32
$36.5
1%
#2
Homes Sold
Over $36 Million in Sales
Top 1% of Top Producing Boulder County Team at RE/MAX Realtors of Boulder
My Team is Your Team Meet My Real Estate Team My team of dedicated professionals work collaboratively to ensure you have a seamless real estate selling experience.
Elizabeth Zajicek Broker Associate + Designer Since 2009
Amanda Sessa VP/SWBC Mortgage Since 2003
Nicole Siklich Broker Associate Since 2020
Genevieve EspinozaFellmann Transaction Coordinator Since 2009
Melinda Coburn Director of Operations & Marketing Since 2025
Todd Ulrich Owner/PG Rentals Since 2000
Janet Leap Team Concierge Services When working with Janet, you can expect a thorough and thoughtful approach to the home search process. She carefully reviews every property, providing insights on the pros and cons of each. With over 40 transactions annually and a 95% repeat client rate, Janet has proven herself as a trusted advisor that clients rely on time and again. She is committed to finding your perfect home with your best interests at heart. What to Expect from a Real Estate Concierge Service Comprehensive Support Our concierge services offer end-to-end support for buyers, from preparation all the way through closing. We take care of the details so you can focus on your next chapter. Access to Reliable Networks We simplify the process of moving and home preparation by connecting you with trusted contractors and professionals. Our extensive network includes: Suppliers and Contractors Home Inspectors and Handymen Architects and Interior Designers Movers, Cleaners, and Window Washers And so much more. Whatever you need, we’ve got you covered! Your Resource for Life Our goal is to exceed your expectations and make the buying process as seamless as possible. Many of our clients become lifelong friends, and we continue to provide ongoing support long after the purchase. We’re committed to being your go-to real estate resource for years to come.
Our Team is Your Team Professional Service Providers This is a partial list of our trusted contractors who will get the job done! Appliance Sales & Repair
Landscaping & Sprinklers
Cabinets & Counters
Metal Fabrication
Carpet Cleaners
Movers
Cleaners
Organizers
Drywall Installation & Repair
Painters
Electricians
Plumbers
Grout Cleaning & Repair
Roofers
Handypersons
Tile Installation & Repair
Hardwood Floor Installation &
Window Treatments
Refinishing
Window Washers
Home Inspectors
And many more...
HVAC
The Home Buying Process
1. Get Loan Pre-Approval Start with a lender pre-approval letter. This step tells you what loan amount you can get and strengthens your offer when you find the right home. Pre-approval sets you up for success in your home search. 2. Buyer Consultation We’ll meet to discuss your must-haves and preferences for your new home. We’ll identify criteria that match your preferences and budget, set you up with an automatic search, and reach out to our real estate network to bring you off-market opportunities. 3. Visit Properties Time to go shopping! We will explore various properties to find the perfect home for you. 4. Complete Loan Application If you’re financing, you’ll need to complete the full loan application. 5. Make an Offer Once you find the right home, we’ll perform a comprehensive market analysis to determine the best strategic offer. Our team, experienced and successful negotiators, will ensure the best terms possible. 6. Deliver Earnest Money After going under contract, you’ll deliver earnest money to the title company. 7. Due Diligence Document Review The seller provides all relevant documents, including manuals, invoices, surveys, appraisals, and previous inspections.
8. Home Inspection A thorough inspection uncovers potential issues and provides critical insights into the property’s condition. We recommend getting a home inspection to identify any issues with the structure or mechanical systems. 9. Appraisal Your lender schedules an appraiser to confirm the property’s value. 10. Homeowners Insurance Shop around for homeowner’s insurance to protect your investment. 11. Final Mortgage Approval Ensure your loan is fully approved before closing. 12. Final Walk-Through We’ll walk through the property just before closing to confirm it’s in the agreed-upon condition and that any inspection items are completed. 13. Closing On closing day, bring any additional funds needed to the title company, sign all paperwork, and you’re officially the owner of your new home. We couldn’t be more excited for you!
Getting Pre-Approved Before starting your home search, getting pre-approved for a mortgage is crucial. A pre-approval letter from a lender provides a preliminary commitment in writing, indicating how much you can borrow based on your income, assets, and credit information. This step helps you understand your budget and strengthens your offer. Most pre-approval letters are valid for 30-60 days. We can recommend trusted lenders if needed. Here are some things to start getting organized: Documents to gather: Pay stubs for the last 30 days Bank statements for the last 60 days [checking, savings, brokerage and investments] Two years of personal and business tax returns [if applicable] W2s for the past 2 years Driver’s license or ID What can you use as a down payment? Down payments can come from a variety of sources. You can use your assets or assistance/gifts from sources which don’t need to be repaid. Liquid assets such as money in a checking or savings account Investments Family member gifts that do not need to be repaid Loan approval key factors Employment history Debt-to-income ratio Assets Credit History
The Home Search Process Now for the exciting part — finding your new home! We’ll work together to understand your goals and provide continual market insights. Our Buyer Consultation: We’ll discuss your preferences and set the stage for your home search. Here are some questions we’ll go over: What is your timeframe for moving? Do you have an ideal location or specific neighborhood in mind? Are there any particular school districts you prefer? What type of home are you looking for? (Single-family, townhome, condo, multi-family, etc.) How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you need? What’s your preferred square footage? Any special features you want? (Home office, main floor master, extra storage, workout space, pet-friendly, space for entertaining, garage spaces, yard size)
You Found The Home Making an Offer Once you find the right home, we’ll strategize and make an offer. We’ll review market data, assess competition, and consider your goals to craft a strong, strategic offer. Making Your Offer Competitive: Increase the offer price Shorten the closing time Offer a rent-back option Put down non-refundable earnest money Waive inspection, appraisal, and/or loan objections We’ll stay in consistent communication with the listing agent and present your offer with a timeline for response. Your offer may be accepted, rejected, or met with a counteroffer. We’ll navigate each scenario with a focus on success.
Home Inspection Why we don’t want to skip this step We highly recommend every buyer schedule a professional home inspection. This step is crucial as it uncovers potential issues and provides vital insights into the home’s condition. We’ll assist you in setting up the inspection and be present to discuss the results with the inspector. After the inspection, you’ll receive a comprehensive written report detailing any recommended repairs. Based on the inspection results, you might choose to request additional inspections or ask the sellers to complete repairs before proceeding. Our team will help you interpret the report and navigate the next steps in the negotiation process. The Inspection Evaluates:
Additional Inspection Options
Appliances
Mold Test
HVAC (Heating and Cooling)
Radon Test
Plumbing
Sewer Line Scope
Electrical systems
Septic System Test [if not on city water]
Roof Structural integrity And more…
Cash to Close The necessary cash to close includes several components: Down Payment This is the amount you contribute to the purchase price of your new home. Typically, buyers put down a minimum of 20%, but many loan products allow for lower down payments, sometimes as low as 3%. Discuss your options with your mortgage loan officer. Earnest Money This deposit, made after your offer is accepted, is credited towards your down payment. Additional Funds to Close Besides the earnest money and down payment, there may be other costs, including: Lender Fees Title Fees Transfer Taxes Deposits for Escrows and Prepaids Success Fee to Your Buyer’s Agent (if applicable)
Monthly Payments Understanding your monthly mortgage payment is essential. Your lender will provide a worksheet outlining all estimated costs included in your payments. Components of a mortgage payment typically include: Principal Interest Property Taxes Insurance HOA Fees (if applicable) Private Mortgage Insurance (depending on your down payment)
Glossary of Helpful Real Estate Terms Appraisal | An appraiser conducts an appraisal of the value of the home Appreciation | Increase in the value of an asset that’s caused by external economic factors occurring over time Closing | The final step in financing a home that involves signing all documents at the title company Closing Costs | The fees a seller and buyer pay to complete the real estate transaction Concessions | Incentives such as payments for closing costs, necessary repairs, or personal property such as furniture that a seller offers the buyer to close the sale Due Diligence Documents | Seller provides buyer with any documents pertaining to the home Earnest Money | A deposit, held by the title company, to buy a home Escrow | The holding of funds or documents by a neutral third party prior to closing. This is typically a done by a title company Home Inspection | Buyers hire an Inspector to provide detailed information on the major systems in the home Home Sale Contingency | A provision in a contract stating that the buyer has a home to sell prior to purchasing the replacement home Inspection Credits | The amount a buyer asks a seller to pay or credit back to them at closing to fix issues that come up during the inspection process.
Loan Application | Buyer to have loan application completed for the lender Loan Approval | Formal authorization for the buyer to get the loan from the lender MLS | A comprehensive database available to real estate professionals with detailed information on most homes on the market Possession | Upon completion of closing this is the date buyer can take possession of the property Post-Occupancy | An agreement where the seller is able to remain in the home for a specified duration after the closing Property Taxes | Annual amount paid by a property owner to the local government or the municipal corporation Seller's Property Disclosure | Seller’s disclosure of conditions that they know about their home Success Fees | These are the fees paid to the listing and selling real estate agents Title | A title is evidenced by a deed recorded in the county records office that verifies ownership of real property Title Insurance | Title insurance is a form of indemnity insurance that protects the holder from financial loss sustained from defects in a title to a property
Where We Work We are proud to work throughout Boulder, Broomfield and Weld Counties.
Boulder
Niwot
Gunbarrel
Broomfield
Lafayette
Nederland
Erie
Longmont
Frederick/Firestone
Louisville
Lyons
& more!
Superior
Westminster
The RE/MAX Advantage A Global Industry Leader NOBODY IN THE WORLD CLOSES MORE REAL ESTATE THAN RE/MAX With a presence in over 100 countries and territories, the RE/MAX network’s global footprint is unmatched by any other real estate brand. RE/MAX has helped millions of families buy or sell a home. RE/MAX is the most recognized real estate name on the planet. From Switzerland to St. Croix and New York to New Zealand, distinguished customers associate RE/MAX with the best agents in the business. RE/MAX is also the most advertised brand in real estate.
RE/MAX STANDS OUT ABOVE THE REST. THE NUMBERS TELL THE STORY!
50+ Leading real estate company for over 50 years 120 Operating in over 110 countries and territories 70,000+ RE/MAX Agents in the U.S. and Canada 145,000 Real estate agents world-wide
RE/MAX of Boulder A Local Real Estate Leader Founded over 40 years ago, RE/MAX of Boulder has earned its place as the longstanding leader in real estate for Boulder County. RE/MAX of Boulder was the third franchise to open in RE/MAX history when it was established in 1977 by its Owner & Founder Tom Kalinski. The Boulder office has been a model of success from the beginning. They have over 100 award-winning Realtors who are among the best in the nation, averaging over 15 years of experience. Their team has expert knowledge, seasoned backgrounds, and are dedicated to their clients. RE/MAX of Boulder has been the #1 company in Boulder County home sales for more than 30 years of our 40+ year history and the #1 single RE/MAX office in the U.S. 8 times. Whether you're looking to buy or sell a home, you can trust RE/MAX of Boulder to represent your needs with professionalism, expertise, and integrity. We are proud to be a part of the distinguished RE/MAX of Boulder team!
RE/MAX OF BOULDER AWARDS AND DISTINCTIONS No. 1 RE/MAX Office Nationwide, 8 Times RE/MAX Outstanding Brokerage of the Year Boulder Weekly's Best of Boulder County Colorado Daily's CU & Boulder's Best Denver Business Journal's Top 10 Residential Real Estate Brokerage
Good Karma Our Circle of Gratitude Giving back to the local community - and the world at large - brings it full circle. Every time we sell a home, we donate to one of these extraordinary nonprofits: A PRECIOUS CHILD supporter since 2015
DAIRY ARTS CENTER supporter since 2018
HEIFER INTERNATIONAL supporter since 2012
SAVE THE CHILDREN supporter since 1999
YMCA OF NORTHERN COLORADO supporter since 2010
ST. JUDE CHILDREN'S RESEARCH CENTER supporter since 1999
"I HAVE A DREAM" FOUNDATION supporter since 2015
CU CONFERENCE ON WORLD AFFAIRS supporter since 2016
CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL COLORADO supporter since 2016
SANDY HOOK PROMISE supporter since 2017
SOIL BOULDER supporter since 2023
MERCY CORPS supporter since 2011
Want to know more about these nonprofits? Just ask Janet! She's always excited to tell you about her nonprofit partners, or learn more at www.janetleap.com
Boulder County Schools Boulder Valley School District Boulder County offers award-winning, exceptional educational opportunities. There are two separate school districts as well as open enrollment opportunities. Boulder Valley School District BVSD consistently ranks among the top school districts on Colorado’s Front Range and was recently awarded #2 in the state (Niche 2023). Covering 500 square miles and serving 11 communities, BVSD operates 56 schools and boasts a 91.3% on-time graduation rate. Learn more about BVSD at www.bvsd.org. Elementary Schools: 36 Middle Schools: 19 High Schools: 15 Charter Schools: 5
Boulder, Broomfield & Weld County Schools St Vrain Valley School District Boulder County offers award winning, exceptional educational opportunities. There are two separate school districts as well as open enrollment opportunities. St Vrain Valley School District St. Vrain provides a rigorous academic foundation with over 70 instructional focus programs and offers open enrollment opportunities. It has the highest graduation rate in the Metro Denver area at 93.3%. Learn more about the St Vrain Valley School District at www.svvsd.org. Elementary Schools: 29 Middle Schools: 13 High Schools: 12 Charter Schools: 6
Boulder Neighborhoods
Downtown Boulder The Hill Chautauqua South Boulder Central Boulder North Boulder Old North Boulder East Boulder University of Colorado Gunbarrel
Boulder Neighborhoods Central Boulder Geographically central and close to major attractions, Central Boulder is a bustling hub with hotels, cultural institutions, and renowned restaurants. Old North Boulder A small enclave north of downtown, Old North Boulder features midcentury modern homes, urban farms, and the distinctive Ideal Broadway Shops and Community Plaza Shopping Center. East Boulder Offering slightly lower real estate prices, East Boulder is home to a growing tech industry and a variety of progressive restaurants, coffee shops, breweries, and winding bike trails. University of Colorado Founded in 1876, the University of Colorado Boulder shapes the city’s progressive identity with its 786-acre campus featuring Tuscan Vernacular Revival architecture, expansive greens, and shaded alcoves. Gunbarrel Situated northeast of central Boulder, Gunbarrel combines established neighborhoods with newer construction, offering diverse options for homebuyers in a lively area.
Downtown Boulder The vibrant heart of Boulder, centered around historic Pearl Street, is known for its brick-paved pedestrian walkway lined with unique shops, acclaimed restaurants, and Victorian-era architecture. The Hill Adjacent to CU’s campus, this neighborhood is a social hub featuring a lively mix of food, drinks, and live music popular among students and visitors. Chautauqua Located at the base of Boulder's Flatirons, Chautauqua is renowned for its scenic beauty and historic significance, centered around the Colorado Chautauqua, founded in 1898. South Boulder Known for its laid-back lifestyle and beautiful trails, South Boulder offers easy access to national laboratories and is nestled into the foothills. North Boulder (NoBo) Once an industrial area, NoBo is now a vibrant neighborhood attracting young families, artists, and new businesses, including breweries and artisan shops.
Boulder County Communities Broomfield Overview: A thriving economic center, Broomfield is the 5th fastestgrowing city in the nation, benefiting from its location along the DenverBoulder corridor. Major employers include Interlocken Business Park and Flatiron Crossing Mall. Population: 76,121 Erie Overview: Located 15 miles east of Boulder, Erie offers a small-town atmosphere with new residential and retail developments. It’s named the #2 top city in Colorado for raising a family. Population: 36,888 Lafayette Overview: Just 12 miles east of Boulder, Lafayette provides small-town charm with single-family neighborhoods and parks. The downtown area is being revitalized, supported by its affordability compared to neighboring cities. Population: 30,441 Longmont Overview: Known for its affordability, Longmont is business-friendly with strong economic development. Located 16 miles northeast of Boulder, it features a historic downtown with diverse retail options, including big box stores and a newly renovated mall. Population: 98,444 Louisville Overview: Frequently ranked as one of the best places to live in the country, Louisville offers family-friendly single-family neighborhoods, good schools, parks, and an historic Main Street with independent shops and restaurants. It also features a mix of redevelopment projects and office space. Population: 20,128
Lyons Overview: Situated 17 miles north of Boulder, Lyons is the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, offering a picturesque Colorado setting with abundant nature and recreational opportunities. Population: 2,132 Nederland Overview: Nestled in the mountains 17 miles from Boulder, Nederland provides a rustic lifestyle with stunning scenery, close proximity to Eldora Ski Resort and Indian Peaks Wilderness, and a charming local scene with cafes, restaurants, and shops. Population: 1,495 Niwot Overview: Positioned halfway between Boulder and Longmont, Niwot features stunning estates and more affordable properties. The historic downtown area boasts eclectic stores, restaurants, and restored buildings. Population: 4,097 Superior Overview: Known as the Gateway to Boulder Valley, Superior is centrally located 10 miles west of Boulder. It’s recognized by Money Magazine as one of the “Best Places to Be a Kid” and features one of the nation’s largest indoor sports facilities. The downtown area offers a blend of residential styles, lodging, diverse retail, and dining options. Population: 13,446
Client Testimonials Janet Leap was absolutely incredible to work with as a first-time homebuyer. Her experience in the Boulder County market is unparalleled...After closing she had a person for every project for us to work with for home updates and projects. Thank you so much for everything Janet! Mike M. | First-Time Homebuyer I had the pleasure of working with Janet while trying to find my new home in Longmont...Once I was able to complete the purchase, Janet was there with recommendations for contractors who helped me tidy up some things. I was lucky to have Janet on my “team” and would recommend her to anyone looking to buy or sell here in Boulder County. Joe D. | Buyer [Janet] truly went above and beyond to make my experience as smooth and stress-free as possible. Not only did she save me money, but she was always available to answer any questions I had throughout the entire process. Even after the sale was complete, she continued to be available and went out of her way to help with things outside of her responsibilities. She is knowledgeable, professional, and truly cares about her clients. I cannot thank her enough for all of her hard work and dedication. Heath O. | Buyer I've had the pleasure of working with Janet in multiple transactions as both buyer and seller. She has always tuned into my interests and priorties even as they have evolved over time and she brings an excellent understanding of the market and the real value of specific properties and locations. Finally Janet has been really good at negotiating on my behalf...closing the deal even when it seemed there were low odds of "getting to yes". Could not ask for more! Mike U. | Buyer + Seller
Janet is the best in Boulder County and beyond! She knows the market for both buyers and sellers and really goes above and beyond for her clients. Last fall, we purchased our "forever home" with Janet's help. Not only did she show us dozens of homes over several months, once we finally found the right home, she negotiated a great price...I highly recommend Janet - whether you are buying or selling (or both!). Virginia B. | Buyer + Seller Janet helped us buy and sell our condo in Boulder, CO, with impressive expertise. She has a high level of knowledge about the market. We wholeheartedly endorse her services. Huihui Z. | Buyer + Seller Janet helped us buy our first home and without her I don't think we would have gotten it! She was very knowledgeable about every area we were interested in and had our best interests in mind throughout the entire home buying process! I would definitely recommend her to anyone hoping to buy or sell a home! Taylor B. | Buyer Janet has now helped me with five real estate transactions. Each time she has amazed me with how professional, thorough and insightful she is. Her expertise has allowed me to have a pleasant experience and to feel confident in the decision making process. Linda H. | Buyer + Seller
Get in touch with us
Janet Leap Broker Associate 720.938.4197 janetleap@boulderco.com
Elizabeth Zajicek Broker Associate 303.718.3064 elizabethz@boulderco.com
Melinda Coburn
Director of Operations & Marketing 303.579.8330 janetleapteam@boulderco.com
www.janetleap.com | 2425 Canyon Blvd, #110 | Boulder, CO 80302