The 3.8% Tax

Beginning January 1, 2013, a new 3.8% tax will take effect on some real estate transactions and investment income.  This tax was passed by Congress in 2010 with the intent of generating an estimated $210 billion to help fund the Healthcare and Medicare overhaul plans presented by President Obama.

Contrary to hype and misinformation...This tax will NOT be imposed upon all real estate transactions.  When this legislation becomes effective in 2013, a 3.8% tax MAY be imposed on some (but not all) income from interest, dividends, rents (less expenses) and capital gains (less capital losses).  The tax will affect those individuals with an adjusted gross income (AGI) above $200,000 and those couples filing a joint return with more that $250,000 AGI.

If a second residence is SOLELY a rental property, it is treated as an investment property and will be taxed on that basis.

The National Association of Realtors expressed its strongest possible objections, however the legislation passed on a largely party line vote. This new 3.8% tax was never introduced, discussed or reviewed until just hours before the final debate on the massive health care legislation began.  This legislation was enacted on March 23, 2010, more than a year after the health care debate began.

The impact of this 3.8% tax on Sellers or Buyers is complicated and hard to predict.  Please contact a Realtor to discuss the possible impact if you are thinking of selling or buying property in 2013 and beyond.

Colorado Jobs

Employment in a Resort Town

Breckenridge, Colorado and the surrounding towns of Frisco, Dillon, Keystone and Silverthorne are the epitome of resort communities nestled in the mountains. Opportunities are slim for job seekers in the High Country.  Currently, three companies in the construction industry are seeking year-round higher level employees while Breckenridge is in search of immediate manpower to service the world-class ski town.  Challenges are the scores of individuals and families that were or still are invested in the housing industry and are in need of short term solutions for income or long-term career opportunities.  The seasonal nature of this resort area also adds to the difficulty of retention, continuity and commitment in terms of businesses willing and able to hire year round employees or employees willing and able to sustain themselves through the shoulder seasons.


Colorado's Governor Hickenlooper strikes a positive note regarding his commitment to the state's economic growth and diversification.  Senator Mark Udall reached out to his constituents in Colorado asking for their ideas and over 14,000 individuals responded with: Focus on Jobs and the Economy (see below survey).


The Denver Post is circulating the University of Colorado Leeds School of Business Forecast which appears equally confident in the Centennial State with this article:  Economic analysts are optimistic for Colorado's 2012 Job Growth.


Optimism is good...perhaps the Leaders of our Towns, Districts and State can work together to create sustainable employment opportunities, adapt a welcoming business climate and ensure our natural resources are available for the enjoyment of all.

Breckenridge Snow Sculpture Championships

Its Snow Sculpture viewing week in Breckenridge, Colorado!  Discover the process of snow sculpting, meet the teams, and view outstanding works of art.  Eleven countries and 15 teams are represented in the 2012 event.  Alaska, Breckenridge - Colorado, Idaho and Wisconsin are all joining their counterparts for a spectacular event!


Stroll along the Riverwalk, view the sponsor/exhibition sculptures along the lawn and across the river right into Blue River Plaza.  Cadillac is presenting the 22nd Annual Budweiser International Snow Sculpture Championships with a fabulous presentation of their own!

Mexico wins 2011 with "Alebrije"!

 Team Yukon takes 2nd Place with "Spirits of the Aurora"

 Securing 2011 3rd Place is Team USA Breckenridge, "Underwater"