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Just Listed: Modern Living in Crystal Valley Ranch

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Welcome to 3455 Cade Ct! Located in the sought-after Crystal Valley Ranch community, this beautifully upgraded modern home combines style, comfort, and convenience

Step inside to an open-concept main floor featuring a bright living area, a spacious dining space, and a contemporary kitchen equipped with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and a large center island—perfect for hosting gatherings. Upstairs, the primary suite offers a walk-in closet and en-suite bathroom, accompanied by two additional bedrooms and a versatile loft, ideal for a home office, playroom, or lounge. Embrace Colorado’s outdoor lifestyle in the backyard or on the deck, or enjoy the community’s exceptional amenities, including parks, trails, and a clubhouse with a pool and fitness center. With convenient access to shopping and dining, this home provides the perfect balance of tranquility and accessibility.

Don’t miss the opportunity to make this beautiful property your next home!

Listed by Sarah Moore for West + Main Homes. Please contact Sarah for current pricing + availability.

 
 
 

Have questions?
West + Main Homes
(720) 903-2912
hello@westandmainhomes.com

Presented by:
Sarah Moore
(720) 210-7153
sarahmoore@westandmainhomes.com

 

Feel Good Friday: Meet this Week's Featured Non-Profit, The Zara Project

 
 

As West + Main Agents gathered for our Weekly Company Update we took a few minutes to share the non-profit organizations that mean the most to us. To kick off the year, we did a random drawing of the nominated organizations to kick off our year with a $500 donation from West + Main on behalf of the agent who nominated them.

We call it Feel Good Friday!

Meet this week’s Featured Non-Profit Organization, The Zara Project, nominated by West + Main agent Gabe Martin:

Keep reading to see a full list of organization nominated this week!

”The Zara Project aims to feed kids on our community when they aren’t in school. So many kids experience hunger at home, and the times when they are in school might be the only time they know where they will be getting their next meal. I’m so proud to support The Zara Project and be able to give them this donation."

- Gabe Martin

 
 

The Zara Project was originally started by a young, new to the profession teacher and her social worker mom.​

Twelve years ago, I was a second year teacher trying to stay afloat in my new profession. I was teaching at Johnson Elementary in Denver, CO and there was one thing I couldn’t shake each night when I left work, it was how hungry so many of my students were all of the time. This basic need for nourishment consumed them so much that it interfered with their learning. As Thanksgiving break that year neared, I noticed that contrary to my excitement for a week of freedom, many of my students did not feel the same way. I observed their anxiety levels elevate and felt this sense of dread that I could not explain nor understand. I asked what was going on and no one gave me an obvious answer until we started talking about Thanksgiving break. They weren’t excited like I was. I asked them why and some of their responses were heartbreaking... “we don’t have any money for food or anything else” or “at least we get breakfast and lunch when we are in school”. My heart sank.

A few days later, I told my mom the story while enjoying a nice dinner and some wine. In that moment tinged with irony, the seeds for The Zara Project were planted. We decided to try and help some families with food that winter break and sent out a friendly letter to friends and family asking for donations. We didn’t expect the response we got. If memory serves, I think we raised $3500 and were able to provide food for about 40 families. The next year it was 75 and the following year, we decided to turn our little project into a nonprofit. Since, we have fed thousands of families over winter break at high poverty schools in Jefferson County and Denver Public Schools and plan to feed thousands more in the years to come.

Today, I am still a teacher and the director of the Zara Project. My mom is retired and truly the glue that keeps Zara going. Her official title is secretary. New life has been injected into our efforts with the addition of two new board members, Jeremy and Chris.

Thank you all for your continued support. A little help from The Zara Project has definitely lifted some heavy burdens local kids and their families experience. We couldn’t have done all of this without you!

Find out more about The Zara Project.

 
 

If you’re looking to start 2025 off with a donation, here are some other organizations our agents love!

Taysia Blue Husky Rescue
Learn more.
”They save huskies and are the best in the world!” - Maggie Fast

Make a Wish Colorado
Learn more.
“They do an amazing job to put a smile on the children face after or even during a rough patch in their life.” - Margaret Hamilton

Humane Society of Boulder
Learn more.
”I love supporting the Boulder Humane Society!” - Katie O’Connor

2 Blondes All Breed Rescue
Learn more.
”I got my dog Paisley there! She is the sweetest dog ever!” - Jennifer Jackson

Redline Arts
Learn more.
”I love their support of Colorado Art/Artists and how they open their studio to the workshop to the community for relatively low fees ($10)” - Carla Salcedo

Judi's House
Learn more.
”They use play and school based tools to assist children through grief.” - Nicole Green

Transgender Center of the Rockies
Learn more.
“They do so many things to support our community's transgender population.” - Alicia Duncan Coulter

Hope is Alive
Learn more.
”Hope Is Alive is an incredible resource for recovering addicts and their loved ones. Their unwavering support provides hope and guidance for those facing long and challenging journeys. The work they do is truly life-changing, offering strength and encouragement to so many in need.” - Nikki McCraw

Center for Health and Hope
Learn more.
”I serve on their board and have for years. They do HIV/AIDS and LGBTQ education in India and Africa to the poorest of the poor. I went to India last January and got to experience the work we do in orphanages, Clinics for women and educating 400 nursing students.” - Larry Sondgeroth

A Precious Child
Learn More.
“I had the privilege of volunteering with A Precious Child for two years, and I’ve seen firsthand the incredible work they do for kids and families in need. This amazing, female-led organization provides essentials like clothing, hygeine items, school supplies, household goods to help children and parents thrive.” - Lin Johnson

CFCE
Learn more.
”This is a great program for individuals with motor disorders. My daughter and Megan Bahlenhorst’s son both attend this program!” - Vicky Opipari

Sunnyside Music Festival
Learn more.
“It's a volunteer-run nonprofit organization that builds community through a free, family friendly music festival. Our annual event support local bands, business, artisans and youth organizations throughout the year. SMF also raises money for music programs for schools throughout Denver. I love it, I've been going every year since 2006 and I'm on the board.” - Tait DeBaca

Mount Saint Vincent Foster Care Program
Learn more.
”I nominate Mount Saint Vincent’s Foster Care because they are amazing with their commitment to and support of foster children, and the families who foster these kids. There are 355,000 kids that are in foster care and nearly 50,000 live in institutions and need a family. My wife and I worked with Mount Saint Vincent and fostered a child, who is now our beautiful daughter.” - Cyndi Jordan

First Descents
Learn more.
”First Descents offers free week-long outdoor adventures like surfing, kayaking, and rock climbing for young adults (ages 18-39) affected by cancer or MS. They aim to harness the healing power of these experiences to combat feelings of isolation and depression that often accompany such diagnoses. Each year, they serve over 500 participants through 40+ programs, enabling young adults to connect with peers while tackling new challenges in beautiful settings, all at no cost.” - Chris Dolan

The National Parents Organization
Learn more.
”NPO’s mission is to promote shared parenting. Thousands of families in CO are affected by Parental Alienation, including my family. For 25 years I have experienced and continue to experience alienation from my children. I am only one of many who, along with their children have been separated by the Alienating Parent who actively work to separate loving parents from their children.” - Katie Rubano

Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado
Learn more.
”Each year, Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado hosts more than 100 volunteer events for community members to play a BIG part in caring for Colorado, from maintaining trails to restoring wildlife habitat and harvesting urban gardens. VOC's volunteers give more than 20,000 hours of love and labor to Colorado's public lands, parks and open spaces every year.” - Joy Opp

Work at West + Main

 
 

Things to do for Lunar New Year 2025 near Denver

 
 

The Lunar New Year is coming up, and 2025 is the year of the Wood Snake in the Chinese zodiac.

On Wednesday, Jan. 29, Asian and diaspora communities worldwide will celebrate the Lunar New Year, marking the first new moon of the lunar calendar. The multi-day festival typically involves family gatherings, parades, food, and fireworks and is known as the Spring Festival in China, Tet in Vietnam and Seollal in Korea.

This will be the second year that Lunar New Year is observed as a state holiday in Colorado.

Here are some events, celebrations and festivities around the Denver metro area for the Lunar New Year.

Chinese New Year Festival at Park Hill Supermarket, Denver

Jan. 18, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

3770 E. 40th Ave.

Free and open to the public

Cultural performances and demonstrations, food, entertainment, prizes

Lunar New Year Celebration at Outlets at Castle Rock

Sunday, Jan. 19, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Outlets at Castle Rock, 5050 Factory Shops Blvd.

Free, tickets online

Lion Dance performance, Red Envelope gifts, gifts for kids

Visit customer service and wish them a “Happy Lunar New Year” between Jan 19 to Feb. 12 to receive a Red Envelope

21st Annual Colorado Chinese New Year Celebration, Denver

Saturday, Jan. 25, 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

George Washington High School, 655 S. Monaco St. Pkwy.

Tickets online starting at $28.52

2-hour shows featuring award-winning professional performers and local artists

Lunar New Year celebration at Town Center at Aurora

Jan. 25, 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

14200 E. Alameda Ave.

Free and open to the public

Cultural performances, crafts, giveaways

2025 Lunar New Year On Havana Street, Aurora

Jan. 26 noon to 6 p.m.

2430 S. Havana St.

Free and open to the public, VIP tickets available

Global food and marketplace, cultural performances, activities and more

Lunar New Year Fortune Run, Aurora and Denver

Saturday, Feb. 1 at 9 a.m.

Sand Creek Greenway

Starts at $32.80, register online

5K, 10K and half-marathon

Far East Center Welcomes Year of the Snake, Denver

Saturday, Feb. 1 and Sunday, Feb. 2, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

333 S. Federal Blvd.

Free, reservations online

Cultural performances, Lion and Dragon dances, cultural fashion show, ice carving, pop-up vendors

Lunar New Year at Stanley Marketplace, Aurora

Sunday, Feb. 2, 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

On Clinton Street near the Stanley Marketplace at 2501 N. Dallas Street

Free and open to the public

Performances, festive traditions, Lion Dance

Third annual Lunar New Year’s event hosted by Tiger Kims, Denver

Saturday, Feb. 8, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

7000 E. Colfax Ave.

Free and open to the public

Dragon Dance, performers, food trucks, vendors, music, giveaways, games and more

2025 Lunar New Year Celebration at PACE Center, Parker

Feb. 15, 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

20000 Pikes Peak Ave.

Free, online registration

Traditional performances, martial arts, hands-on activities, mini classes

2025: The Year of the Snake

The snake is the sixth of 12 signs in the Chinese zodiac and is often seen as a symbol of luck, mystery, wisdom, creativity, transformation and love.

Read more at KDVR

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5 Ways to Love Your Home, Even If It’s Not Your Dream Home

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There’s nothing new about Instagram- and Pinterest-perfect homes overtaking our social feeds, and the flood of inspiration is always welcome. Imagery of ideal homes can spark ideas for how to tailor your own space to feel like a true reflection of your style. But these "ideal homes" can also have the adverse effect—maybe, because of all these picture-perfect spaces you see each day, your space seems a bit duller, and you long to live in a dream space that isn't yours.

Your home—whether it’s your dream home or far from it—is where lifelong memories are made. There, you’ll bring home a new kitten, host beloved friends and family, kick off your shoes after a long day, and sing a little too loudly while cooking dinner. Whether you rent or own, nearly no home is perfect. By reframing your perspective, you’ll be able to appreciate the positive sides of your home, instead of focusing on what your budget or landlord doesn’t allow you to change.

After all, home is where the heart is. Read on for five ways to love your home, even when it’s not your dream home.

Don't Put Off Loving It

“I’ll only be here a year,” you think. Then, that initial year turns into another, which rolls into a third. No matter how long you plan to stay in your home—a month or a lifetime—don’t put off prioritizing easy and budget-friendly ways to make your house feel like it’s yours.

That could be as simple as hanging a family photo or inviting your closest friends over for a dinner party. Wherever you are, make your house feel like a home with the decor, people, and memories you fill it with.

Change What You Can

Some aspects of a home may simply be out of your control—but not all. Pinpoint what’s bothering you about your home, then mull over creative solutions.

Hate the harsh overhead lights? Add dimmers. Can’t stand the carpet? Layer a rug on top of it. Painting is an obvious first step to freshening up any room, and so is switching out hardware. You would be surprised how much a kitchen full of new cabinet pulls can transform the space. Sometimes, the best option is a “for now” solution that can hold you over until you can either change it permanently or move.

Focus on What You Like About Your Home

Instead of getting caught up in what you don’t like about your home—an awkward floor plan or inefficient windows, perhaps—turn your attention to what you love about it. The windows may let drafty breezes inside, but they’re full of charm and character. Small square footage may feel like a tight squeeze, but think about how much easier it is to clean. You may prefer a dozen more kitchen cabinets, but the few you currently have ensure you stay organized.

For every downside, there’s an upside, so focus on the inherent, redeeming qualities of your home.

Embrace the Quirks

Think back to college, when you lived with five of your friends in a wacky, seen-better-days house where the heat would stop working—ironically—on the coldest nights. We're willing to bet you couldn’t have loved it more, right?

Though you may not want to live with all the quirks of your college house now (reliable heat is nice), chances are, the eccentric parts of your home are the things you’ll be nostalgic for later. Learn to embrace them.

Remind Yourself of Your Home's Purpose

What a home is: a refuge, a safe space to rest, relax, feel like yourself, and surround yourself with loved ones. If you’re too busy hating the tone of your hardwood floors or are obsessed with the wall you want to tear down, you’ll forget the true purpose of a home.

Read more at the spruce

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10 Reasons Your Home Is So Drafty and How to Fix It Fast

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Air drafts can rapidly chill a house, no matter how much you run your heating system. If you've ever wondered why your house is so drafty, the causes are easy to pinpoint. Solutions can be as simple as adding foam insulation or installing outlet sealers.

Here are 10 solutions from contractors and weatherization experts for fixing a drafty house.

Outlet Leaks

Electrical outlet receptacles are hidden causes of drafts, says Randi Bujnovsky of Duck Brand, a provider of weatherization products.

Fix It

Socket sealers are a simple, fast solution, and you don't need to be an electrician to install them, says Bujnovsky.

"Just place one behind the outlet or switch’s outer face plate cover for a snug fit between the wall and the face plate, stopping drafts," Bujnovsky says.

Gapped Floorboards

Drafts may seep between gaps in floorboards, says contractor Docia Boylen. It's a common problem with older houses with gapped floorboards or inadequate subflooring.

Fix It

The solution to floorboard drafts is to add area rugs, Boylen says. Area rugs are instant insulation that take minutes to roll out.

Leaky Penetrations

Houses are pierced with various penetrations, including outdoor water faucets, bathroom exhausts, chimneys, soil stacks, and wires.

Many drafts come from improperly sealed penetrations, says Glenn Gault of Gault Heating & Cooling. These are often left unsealed during construction or the sealant has failed.

Fix It

Apply caulk or low-expansion spray foam insulation around larger openings where pipes or wires enter the wall.

Failed Insulation

Poor insulation installation can lead to drafts, according to Andrew Legge, CEO of sustainable insulation company Havelock Wool.

The insulation may be the wrong size for the wall cavity. Or, the vapor barrier might be improperly stapled to the studs—or detached.

Fix It

One solution, says Legge, is to add insulation in easy-to-access places: attic, crawl space, and open walls.

With blown-in insulation in closed walls, have a professional add more insulation to the top of the existing insulation.

Windows and Doors

Doors and windows are one of the most common sources of drafts, Bujnovsky says.

Fix It

"By installing draft seals, homeowners can easily insulate their home and stop drafts," Bujnovsky says.

This simple fix can have a dramatic impact on high energy bills, as it limits energy waste and minimizes the need to constantly adjust the thermostat upward.

Attic Leaks

The attic is a major source of heat loss, Gault says. Heated air passes upward through a poorly insulated or sealed attic. Drafts can pass downward, as well.

Fix It

"Go into the attic and look for openings around light fixtures, vent pipes, and wires," Gault says. Stop the drafts by applying caulk or expanding foam to seal these gaps from above.

Open Damper

A chimney rapidly carries smoke up and away from the house. It can do the reverse by bringing outdoor drafts into the house.

The problem may be that the fireplace damper is not closed or doesn't seal properly.

Fix It

Make sure the damper is closed, Boylen says. It's easy to forget that the damper is open after the fire has gone out.

If the damper is closed but it still leaks, install a chimney balloon. A chimney balloon is an inflatable device that seals the flue and costs $25 to $45.

Recessed Lights

Recessed lights are an avenue for drafts in a house, according to Gault.

Recessed lights penetrate the ceiling, and the attic is usually draftier and colder than the level below.

Fix It

Install insulated, airtight covers directly over the fixtures in the attic, Gault says. Or, install IC-rated (insulation-contact) recessed lights so you can safely lay the attic insulation over the lights.

Empty Plumbing Traps

Drafts may come from an unexpected source: sinks, showers, tubs, or toilets. If the drafts faintly smell of a sewer, the plumbing drain traps are likely missing the water.

The purpose of a drain trap is to create a water seal to prevent sewer gas from entering the home. Water may evaporate from the trap if the device hasn't been used for a while.1

Fix It

Flush the toilet to fill the trap. For sinks, tubs, and showers, run the water for about a minute to fill the trap.

House Settling

"Older homes are often drafty because the foundation settles over time," Gault says. "This creates hairline cracks in walls and around windows and doors, letting in cold air."

Fix It

To fix drafts due to house settling, seal hairline cracks in the foundation with flexible caulk and use expanding foam for large gaps.

Read more at the spruce

Related Links

If there is a home that you would like more information about, if you are considering selling a property, or if you have questions about the housing market in your neighborhood, please reach out. We’re here to help.

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